Answer
I feel we need to do both—work within the existing system while also creating alternatives at the right time. Instead of waiting for the whole world to change, we can begin by creating small, functional pockets of change, such as varṇāśrama communities.
However, such a community can succeed only when there is a strong kṣatriya spirit.
As far as the brāhmaṇa aspect is concerned, the “software” is already available—Śrīla Prabhupāda has given extensive knowledge through his books. Anyone who studies them sincerely can develop brāhmaṇical qualities. In fact, if you create a community and ask people to focus on reading, chanting, studying śāstra, and giving classes, you will find many willing participants.
But when it comes to kṣatriya development, the situation is different.
Unlike the brāhmaṇa role—where we have clear, structured guidance through books—there is comparatively less direct, day-to-day guidance on how to practically train and function as a kṣatriya in modern society. We understand ideals like Rāma-rājya and the qualities of a kṣatriya, but translating that into a working, contemporary system is a challenge.
This means we need to actively train devotees in kṣatriya qualities, especially those who show natural tendencies—leadership, courage, initiative, and a protective nature.
A kṣatriya cannot be soft like a lamb in the face of aggression. His role is to give protection and confidence to others. If people are threatened, he should be able to stand up and say, “Don’t worry, I will ensure justice.” If instead he withdraws or avoids confrontation in the name of humility, then he is not functioning as a kṣatriya.
Each role in varṇāśrama requires specific qualities:
Brāhmaṇas guide with knowledge
Kṣatriyas protect and administer
Vaiśyas handle resources and economy
Śūdras assist and support
In today’s world:
Vaiśya activities are already widespread
Śūdras are abundant
Brāhmaṇas can be developed through study and practice
But kṣatriyas are especially lacking—and that is a major gap.
In common language, when we say “leader,” we usually mean a kṣatriya—someone who ensures order, justice, and protection. Even though brāhmaṇas are the intellectual guides, society naturally looks to kṣatriyas for governance and security.
The reality is that in any society, there will always be:
People who break rules
People who exploit others
Selfish tendencies
So there must be a system to contain and regulate these tendencies, while allowing individuals to progress spiritually. This balance—aligning the forces of body and mind with spiritual growth—is part of the kṣatriya’s responsibility.
An ideal kṣatriya should be:
A source of fear for wrongdoers
A source of protection and trust for the righteous
If such leadership exists, people will naturally follow. But without strength, courage, and a sense of responsibility, one cannot function as a kṣatriya.
So we need to consciously develop this kṣatriya spirit—power, heroism, and leadership—in service of the Lord. It is a role to be embraced as service, not avoided.
If someone does not have that inclination, they may serve as a brāhmaṇa and guide others—but they cannot artificially take on a kṣatriya role.
Regarding entering government systems—that is also one possible approach, but it is complex and slow, and requires divine guidance to navigate properly.
A more practical and immediate approach is this:
create successful models—small communities where people are genuinely peaceful, happy, and secure.
That itself becomes real preaching.
Because if we attempt to create a “varṇāśrama community” but people inside are unhappy, conflicted, and dissatisfied, then what is the value? Simply growing food or following external structures is not enough.
A true varṇāśrama society must deliver:
Peace
Happiness
Security
Cooperation
Spiritual growth
Only then it becomes meaningful.
So the real challenge before us is:
How do we practically build such communities with the right balance of knowledge, leadership, and spiritual focus?
That is where thoughtful effort and training are required.
