Radha Govinda Youth Group of ISKCON West Sydney is organising BhaktiFest 2k25, a youth spiritual festival with a weekend of culture, connection, and conscious living.
Open to young people aged 13 to 30, this three-day festival will take place from April 25 to 27, 2025, at the Hunter Valley Retreat Centre—a 200-acre sanctuary located just 1.5 hours from Sydney.
Youth leader Arvind Janardhan told The Australia Today,
“In a time when society is increasingly plagued by rising addiction, mental health challenges, and loss of direction among youth, BhaktiFest stands out as a countercultural solution—a space where values like self-discipline, compassion, and integrity are not only discussed, but lived. Through powerful music, thought-provoking discussions, cultural performances, and wellness sessions, BhaktiFest is designed to spiritually uplift and empower the next generation.”
“In today’s hyperconnected yet emotionally distant world, many young people are seeking deeper purpose and authentic connection. BhaktiFest offers a rare chance to unplug from everyday pressures and tap into something truly meaningful,” added Arvind.
This year, around 200 youth from across Australia—including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra and Murwillumbah and New Zealand are expected to attend, making it a national celebration of youth unity and conscious living.
According to the organisers, BhaktiFest 2k25 offers a well-rounded program that blends creativity, culture, and conscious living:
🎤 Live Music & Chanting – High-energy music sessions that uplift the spirit and create powerful collective experiences.
💬 Workshops & Panels – Covering topics like mindfulness, values-based living, mental clarity, and inner growth.
🔥 Bonfire Nights & Games – Evening bonding through storytelling, song, and laughter.
🌱 Wellness & Mental Health Session – Exploring the balance between mental wellness and a deeper sense of purpose.
🌍 Community Parade – A joyful musical procession in a nearby town to share positivity and community spirit.
🎭 Youth Theatre & Performances – Showcasing talent and meaningful storytelling through art.
🧠 Discussion Circles – Facilitated conversations around life, identity, and navigating today’s world with clarity and intention.
Each day blends quiet reflection with high-energy engagement, offering participants a fresh and inspiring experience.
ISKCON West Sydney is currently building what will be the largest Hare Krishna temple and cultural centre in the country—a vibrant hub for education, community, and spiritual growth located in the Hawkesbury Region of Western Sydney.
Vijay Gopikesh Das, who is it the Congregation Leader leading the new project of construction of the new temple mentioned that BhaktiFest 2k25 is part of a broader initiative to strengthen spiritual and cultural life in Australia.
“Inspired by international youth retreats like The Sanga Initiative (USA) and Pandava Sena Retreats (UK), BhaktiFest brings together tradition and modernity to support the emotional, spiritual, and social development of young people.”
Attendees and partners of BhaktiFest are contributing to this landmark 25-million-dollar project and helping create a long-term legacy of conscious community living.
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