Bhakti Song Contest
Call for submissions
Join us in composing a community song for and by ISKCON members!
Dear Vaishnavas!
We are pleased to announce a call for submissions to members of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness: we invite all enthusiastic practitioners and musicians to create a community song that expresses the spirit of ISKCON.
The songs that will be created are not official institutional hymns, but humble offerings commemorating the early flowering of the ISKCON movement, especially the events that took place 50 years ago in 1975. This was the year when Srila Prabhupada opened the Krishna-Balaram Mandir in the heart of Vrindavan, when the volumes of Caitanya-caritamrita began to spread throughout the world, and when the wave of holy names flooded the world in books, on the streets, and in hearts. May these songs be a humble echo of that auspicious era. And the year 2026, by which time the songs will be completed, will be the 60th anniversary of the founding of ISKCON.
The purpose of the contest: To create an inspiring, uplifting song that radiates unity and reflects the mission, philosophy, and spiritual commitment of ISKCON. The song can express and reinforce our common aspirations at community events, festivals, and online platforms.
About the lyrics
We are including a sample text with the contest that can serve as inspiration (see it below).
The suggested text can be used as it is or modified. Completely different lyrics can also be used. The final lyrics must be in accordance with Vaishnava philosophy. It should be positive, uplifting, and convey the spirit of ISKCON: the ideas of bhakti, unity, the disciplic succession, service, and preaching. The lyrics of the song must include the complete Hare Krishna maha mantra.
About the style of the song
The song should be melodious, easy to sing and easy to remember, suitable for community singing.
Any of the five given melodies (generated by artificial intelligence) can be used as inspiration. You can apply by replaying or singing these melodies or creating a new one.
The music should be accessible and the lyrics clearly understandable.
In principle, any musical style can be used to praise the Lord. However, on this occasion, avoid overly hard, aggressive, or loud musical styles—the goal is an uplifting, harmonious sound that will appeal to a wide audience.
The song should be no longer than 4 minutes.
Who can apply?
Both individuals and musical groups. Collaboration is encouraged: singers, composers, songwriters, and instrumentalists from different locations can work together.
An artist or group can only submit one song.
Use of artificial intelligence
The use of AI is permitted to a limited extent in the writing of lyrics, composition of music, and creation of musical accompaniment.
We encourage as much human collaboration as possible in the creation and performance of the song
At least the singing voice must be a natural, human voice.
Application form
Submission deadline: December 31, 2025
Public voting:
In early 2026, the ISKCON community will select the best song from among the entries received through online voting.
Of course, all other songs that are created may also be freely sung and distributed.
Let us give voice to our faith, our hopes, and the joy of our service! Let our songs be gifts to Srila Prabhupada and the whole world.
Harinama sankirtan ki jay!
Srila Prabhupada ki jay!
Your servants, the initiators:
Bh. Szabolcs Tárkányi
and Isvara Krisna Das
Hungary
Recommended lyrics
The lyrics can be modified, or you can submit lyrics that are completely different but serve the purposes of the contest.
O Lord of love and light divine,
Our hearts we offer at Thy shrine.
We’re not these bodies, born to fade,
But souls eternal, unafraid.
Through birth and death we wandered blind,
In search of love we could not find.
No wealth or fame can fill the hole—
You are the balm that heals the soul.
O Krishna, give us strength each day,
To chant, to serve, to walk Your way.
Together now, we rise and sing,
To spread the joy Your names shall bring.
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna,
Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama,
Rama Rama, Hare Hare
A voice of truth, so bold and clear,
Now calls us close, from far and near.
With heart for all, with mind at peace,
May loving service never cease.
Lead us, O Lord, from this cruel night,
Into Your world of love and light.