Diksha
Initiating spiritual master
The GBC statement describes a diksha guru as giving spiritual instruction and inspiration, formal initiation, and—in due course—the sacred Gayatri mantras to a qualified disciple.
A source-led guide
Finding spiritual guidancewithin ISKCON
Learn the basic distinctions, consult official ISKCON resources, and take time to consider spiritual guidance with care and the support of trusted devotees.
View the GBC initiating-guru listOpens the official GBC website. Its list describes gurus currently accepting disciples; it is not a complete directory of every devotee who may offer spiritual guidance.
Siksha
Instructing spiritual master
A siksha guru gives spiritual instruction and inspiration on behalf of Srila Prabhupada and the guru-parampara. This service is distinct from giving formal initiation.
Sannyasa
An ashrama, not an initiation label
Sannyasa is a renounced order of life. A person being a sannyasi alone does not tell you whether they currently accept disciples or serve as a diksha guru.
What does “currently accepting disciples” mean?
The GBC list identifies gurus currently accepting disciples and separately names some who are not accepting disciples. The GBC also explains that aspiring disciples are not limited to that list and describes conditions that apply to prospective gurus. Use the GBC page itself for the current status and full context; this page does not determine or grant anyone authorization.
Start with primary sources
Official ISKCON resources
These links go to the ISKCON Governing Body Commission. Read the source documents directly for the most complete context and any updates.
ISKCON Governing Body Commission (GBC)
List of Initiating Gurus in ISKCON
The GBC's current list of gurus accepting disciples, with explanatory notes and names listed as not accepting disciples.
Read on the GBC websiteISKCON GBC · adopted 9 March 2013
Statement of the Governing Body Commission
An official explanation of Srila Prabhupada's place in ISKCON and the services of diksha and siksha gurus.
Read on the GBC websiteISKCON GBC
Balancing the roles of the GBC and the disciple in guru selection
GBC guidance on a prospective disciple's responsibility to consider and test a prospective guru, including consultation with trusted senior devotees.
Read on the GBC websiteISKCON GBC · approved position paper
Principles for Creating a Diksha-guru System for ISKCON
The GBC-approved position paper describing the principles and oversight behind the diksha-guru system in ISKCON.
Read on the GBC websiteTake time and seek guidance
A thoughtful, personal process
The GBC guidance encourages prospective disciples to take responsibility for considering a prospective guru and to consult trusted senior devotees. Please read the official guidance and speak with trusted ISKCON devotees and local ISKCON leadership as you reflect.
This educational page is maintained by ISKCON Asansol and is not an authorization, endorsement, or recommendation of any individual. Guru status and availability can change. For current information, consult the official GBC sources linked above.