Swami Prabhupada

Srila Prabhupada, also known as A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, was a spiritual teacher, philosopher, and the founder-acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly known as the Hare Krishna movement. Here is a comprehensive biography of Srila Prabhupada:

Early Life and Education: A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was born Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896, in Calcutta, India, into a devout Vaishnava family. From a young age, he showed an interest in spirituality and exhibited a deep devotion to Lord Krishna. He received a traditional education in Bengali and Sanskrit literature, as well as Western education in English.

Encounter with His Spiritual Master: In 1922, Abhay Charan De met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, the founder of the Gaudiya Math, a prominent Vaishnava organization. Inspired by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta’s teachings, Abhay Charan De became his disciple and dedicated himself to the service of spreading the message of Krishna consciousness.

Mission to the West: In 1965, at the age of 69, Abhay Charan De embarked on a historic mission to the United States to fulfill his spiritual master’s instruction to spread Krishna consciousness to the Western world. Arriving in New York City with just a few dollars and a trunk of his books, he began preaching the message of Bhagavad-gita and chanting the Hare Krishna mantra in public parks and street corners.

Establishment of ISKCON: Through his tireless efforts and determination, Abhay Charan De attracted a small group of followers who became the nucleus of what would later become the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). In 1966, he officially established ISKCON with the aim of promoting Krishna consciousness and the teachings of the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.

Expansion of the Movement: Under Srila Prabhupada’s leadership, ISKCON rapidly expanded, establishing temples, ashrams, and centers of spiritual learning around the world. His disciples, known as “devotees,” dedicated themselves to practicing devotional service, chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, distributing spiritual literature, and engaging in community service.

Literary Contributions: Srila Prabhupada authored over 70 books on Bhakti-yoga, Vedic philosophy, and Krishna consciousness, including translations and commentaries on classic Vedic texts such as the Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and Caitanya-caritamrita. His writings have been translated into numerous languages and have had a profound impact on spiritual seekers worldwide.

Legacy and Influence: Srila Prabhupada’s dynamic preaching and profound teachings attracted thousands of followers from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to adopt a lifestyle of devotion, austerity, and service. His emphasis on the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra and the distribution of prasadam (sanctified food) became hallmark practices of the Hare Krishna movement. Today, ISKCON continues to thrive as a global spiritual movement with millions of followers worldwide.

Mahasamadhi: Srila Prabhupada passed away on November 14, 1977, in Vrindavan, India, leaving behind a rich spiritual legacy and a thriving international movement dedicated to spreading Krishna consciousness. His teachings continue to inspire and guide millions of devotees in their spiritual journey towards love, devotion, and service to Lord Krishna. Srila Prabhupada’s vision of a world united in Krishna consciousness remains a guiding principle for ISKCON devotees and spiritual seekers around the world.