Western interpretations of Hinduism, as exemplified by movements like ISKCON, differ significantly from traditional Indian Hinduism both in terms of doctrinal selectivity and organizational and target orientation.

A Clash of Interpretations: Traditional Hinduism vs. Western Adaptatio

Western interpretations of Hinduism, as exemplified by movements like ISKCON, differ significantly from traditional Indian Hinduism both in terms of doctrinal selectivity and organizational and target orientation.

Firstly, traditional Hinduism represents a complex unity of several streams (Smarta, Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Shaktism) with a rich palette of philosophical, mythological, and cultural traditions. It does not have a single canonical doctrine and does not pursue active missionary activity – one can only be a Hindu by birth. As noted:
"Traditional Hinduism does not encourage proselytizing. One cannot become a Hindu; one can only be born one. Missionary activity is not inherent in traditional Hinduism." (source: link txt, page: 66-67).

In contrast, Western movements such as ISKCON emerged as synthetic products adapted to the ideological and cultural needs of the Western audience. They are based on a selective reconsideration and accentuation of certain aspects of the Hindu tradition – often a simplified view where specific dogmas and practices are presented as universal means for achieving spiritual perfection and even social reorganization. This is well reflected in the description of the so-called "religious synthesis" in a postmodern interpretation:
"To achieve spiritual ecstasy, Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, demanded strict asceticism from his followers. Maharishi demanded nothing. The new Western middle class was offered salvific mantras as a remedy for all individual and societal ailments." (source: link txt, page: 1958-1959).

Thus, the main difference lies in the fact that traditional Hinduism preserves its pluralism, deep historical connection with social structures (for example, the caste system) and does not seek active external propagation, while Western interpretations represent an adapted, often abridged and systematized version of Hindu thought, aimed at attracting a new audience by emphasizing strict lifestyle requirements and certain dogmatic stances. This makes them attractive to Western followers searching for universal answers and simplified paths to spiritual self-improvement, yet at the same time, they deviate from the full, complex mosaic of traditional Hinduism.