In Reply to: Hari Krishna posted by NiLuh on Wednesday, 31. May 2006 at 13:23 Bali Time:
are a variation of Hinduism...established in the USA in late 60's by Swami Prabuphada who was sent to the West by his guru (teacher) to spread Krishna consciousness to the "meat eaters". The lineage of Hare Krishnas goes back many thousands of years and has its roots in tantrism. The correct name for their organisation is ISKON - International Society for Krishna Consciousness, but they have always been more well known as the Hare Krishnas for their chanting of the Maha (great) mantra - Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
They are well established all over the world and wherever they are they try to spread their message via books (often given away for free) and through food - there are Hare Krishna restaurants where ever there is a Hare Krishna temple. They also will give food for free if people are not able to pay - usually you are asked to help out in the kitchen in lieu of payment. I often eat at their restaurant here, and have been invited a couple of times to teach Hatha Yoga at their retreats.