Q. Why do Hare Krishna men shave their heads?

A. Hare Krishna men shave their heads to symbolize renunciation of the material way of life and dedication to spiritual pursuits. The small tuft of hair at the back signifies that they are devotees of Krishna, distinguishing them from other renunciants who shave their heads, such as Buddhists.

Shaving one’s head is not a strict rule for Krishna devotees and is done mostly by men living in a monastic environment or ashram. Most Hare Krishna men live and work outside Krishna communities and don’t shave their heads.