Iskcon Devotees Face Coordinated Online Accommodation Scam in Mayapur
As the festival season approaches and pilgrim numbers swell in Mayapur, a disturbing trend has emerged. Online fraudsters are systematically targeting Iskcon devotees with a sophisticated accommodation scam. This coordinated racket has already victimized visitors from across India and overseas, capitalizing on the urgency of last-minute bookings and the trusted reputation of Iskcon.
Official Complaint and Investigation Underway
Iskcon Mayapur has taken formal action by lodging a First Information Report about the fraud. Law enforcement authorities have now taken up the complaint for investigation. Radharamn Das, vice-president of Iskcon Kolkata, confirmed that the matter has been escalated to the highest levels. He described the situation as a serious criminal exploitation of faith and trust.
"This scam is devastating people financially and emotionally," Das emphasized. "Not just devotees but general visitors from around the world are suffering. Until authorities stop these fraudsters, public awareness remains our strongest protection."
How the Scam Operates
According to Iskcon officials, the fraudsters have created multiple deceptive platforms. They operate through fake websites and WhatsApp-based booking channels that falsely claim to offer rooms in prominent Mayapur facilities. These include Prabhupad Village, Isodyan, Gada Bhavan, Conch Bhavan and Gita Bhavan.
One such unauthorized website identified by authorities is www.prabhupadvillage.com. Several similar portals are operating with identical methods. The websites appear professional and convincing to unsuspecting visitors.
"These fraudulent sites offer rooms during peak festival periods," Das explained. "They sometimes promise discounts or special benefits to lure victims. After collecting full payment, they simply disappear."
Official Booking Channel and Safety Warning
Iskcon has issued a clear warning to all visitors. The only official and authorized website for booking accommodation in Iskcon Mayapur is www.visitmayapur.com. Any bookings made through other websites, agents, WhatsApp numbers or phone calls are completely unauthorized and unsafe.
Temple officials report the impact has been particularly distressing during peak festival periods when accommodation becomes scarce. Families, including elderly devotees and children, have arrived after long journeys—sometimes traveling from abroad—only to discover their "confirmed" bookings never existed.
In many cases, the money paid through these fraudulent channels becomes unrecoverable. The emotional toll on devotees who have saved and planned for spiritual journeys is substantial.
Protecting Yourself from the Scam
Iskcon urges all devotees and visitors to take specific precautions:
- Verify all accommodation bookings strictly through the official portal www.visitmayapur.com
- Avoid any websites, agents or contacts claiming to offer Iskcon Mayapur rooms through unofficial channels
- Spread awareness among fellow devotees and community members
- Report any suspicious booking offers to Iskcon authorities immediately
The organization emphasizes that a spiritual visit to Mayapur should bring peace and fulfillment, not financial loss and trauma. As investigations continue, increased vigilance remains crucial for all travelers planning festival visits to this important pilgrimage site.
