Hare Krishna! The Mantra, the Movement and the Swami Who Started It All

Hare Krishna! The Mantra, the Movement, and the Swami Who Started It All is a captivating, educational, and inspiring documentary from 2017 that presents audiences with an insightful exploration of the global Hare Krishna movement. This film provides a balanced account of the origins, development, and influence of the Hare Krishna tradition, focussing primarily on the life and mission of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the man who introduced and popularized the Hare Krishna mantra in the Western world.

The film delineates the pivotal role of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, also known as Swami Prabhupada. In a culture marked by rapid change and spiritual exploration in the mid-20th century, he dared to bring the ancient spiritual wisdom of India's Vedic traditions to the shores of America. In doing so, he initiated a spiritual transformation that would touch and change countless lives worldwide and that continues to influence the path of spiritual seekers to this day.

Hare Krishna! traces the remarkable journey of Swami Prabhupada, from his humble beginnings in Kolkata, India, to his rise as the spiritual leader of the global Hare Krishna movement. It does so through a mix of enlightening interviews, archival footage, and animations, painting a vivid picture of a man who was a spiritual revolutionary, full of unyielding faith and great compassion.

The documentary also offers an insight into the philosophy and core teachings of the Hare Krishna tradition itself. It explores the transcendental effects of the Hare Krishna mantra, a simple yet powerful chant meant to reconnect the individual soul with the supreme soul. The film presents how this spiritual practice brought about profound transformations in people from diverse backgrounds regardless of their caste, creed, or nationality.

An important aspect of the film is dedicated to George Harrison, the legendary member of the Beatles, who famously embraced the Hare Krishna tradition. His spiritual journey, connection with Swami Prabhupada, and the subsequent global release of "My Sweet Lord," a single incorporating the Hare Krishna mantra, played a crucial role in bringing this Eastern spiritual tradition into the mainstream consciousness.

Simultaneously, the documentary does not shy away from addressing the controversies and criticisms that the Hare Krishna movement faced over the years. It approaches the situation with the balance that often characterizes good historical documentaries, providing viewers with a nuanced understanding rather than sweeping generalizations or one-sided commentaries.

Strongly rooted in the emotions and narratives of those who were directly involved with this spiritual movement, including Swami Prabhupada's disciples and close friends, the film adequately conveys the challenges, setbacks, and breakthroughs they experienced. It showcases the resilience, devotion, and tenacity that propelled the Hare Krishna movement from an initially small group in New York City to a worldwide spiritual family.

The film also includes a rare glimpse into Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati, the spiritual mentor of Swami Prabhupada, who played an integral role in his spiritual journey and mission. Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati's influence on Swami Prabhupada and, subsequently, on the direction and growth of the Hare Krishna Movement, is significantly highlighted in this moving documentary.

John Griesser, Jean Griesser, and Lauren Ross skillfully directed and produced this film. It was released to critical acclaim from viewers and critics alike, who praised it for its masterful storytelling, genuine spiritual insights, and fresh perspective on a significant chapter in spiritual history. Furthermore, the film’s vibrant cinematography and compelling score brought the rich tradition and culture of the Hare Krishna Movement to life.

In conclusion, Hare Krishna! The Mantra, the Movement, and the Swami Who Started It All does a splendid job in illustrating the life and mission of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and the evolution of the Hare Krishna Movement. It serves as more than just a historical documentation but also presents a deep, philosophical exploration that would resonate profoundly with those interested in spiritual traditions, their influence, and their relevance in today's world. It is a must-watch for everyone — from those curious about the Hare Krishna tradition to serious spiritual seekers.