Exploring the History of ISKCON's "Gurukula Experiment"

For Kuli MeLA 2009 I have proposed a presentation currently titled, “Exploring the History of ISKCON’s ‘Gurukula Experiment.’”

The concept is still evolving, but I have a few ideas:

This would be an “interactive” display with photos, video, time lines, highlights, Prabhupada’s quotes and letters about his ideas and intentions for the gurukula, letters and essays from Gurukulis about their memories and experiences, letters and essays from 1st generation people about their memories and experiences related to the gurukulas, letters and essays from the Kuli crowd with their thoughts, memories, appreciations, etc. More as it develops.

My initial concept is this being something like the Moving Vietnam Wall: http://www.themovingwall.org/. Not necessarily following it’s design, but more following its sense of purpose. It could even be something that travels around the world as a display to be shown in places where people are interested in seeing it.

The mood of the piece would be something like those put together by the Museum of Tolerance: http://www.museumoftolerance.com. They do an excellent job of presenting things in a way that visitors come away with a deep sense of history, thoughtfulness and inspiration while addressing some very intense topics.

Please contact me if you are interested in helping to put this together.

Seeking the Essence,

Chaits