A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Founder-Acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
A Spiritual Ambassador to the World
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (1896-1977) is widely regarded as the foremost Vedic scholar, translator, and spiritual teacher of the modern era. He made an unparalleled contribution to the world through his life and teachings.
In just twelve years, from his arrival in America in 1965 to his passing in 1977, Srila Prabhupada circled the globe fourteen times, established more than 100 temples, wrote and published over 70 volumes of transcendental literature, initiated 5,000 disciples, and introduced Krishna consciousness to millions worldwide.
"The spiritual master opens our eyes, blinded by the darkness of ignorance, with the torch of knowledge."
The Life of Srila Prabhupada
Birth in Kolkata
Born as Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896, in Kolkata, India, to a devout Vaishnava family.
First Meeting with His Spiritual Master
Met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who requested him to spread Vedic knowledge in the English language to the Western world.
Back to Godhead Magazine
Single-handedly launched Back to Godhead, an English fortnightly magazine that continues publication today.
Acceptance of Sannyasa
Accepted the renounced order of life (sannyasa) at Mathura, India, receiving the title Bhaktivedanta Swami.
Journey to America
At the age of 69, traveled to the United States on the cargo ship Jaladuta with just 40 rupees and a few books, suffering two heart attacks during the journey.
Founding of ISKCON
Established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in New York City, beginning a worldwide spiritual movement.
Global Expansion
Traveled extensively, opening temples across six continents and initiating thousands of disciples into the Vaishnava tradition.
Final Instructions and Departure
Left this world on November 14, 1977, in Vrindavan, India, surrounded by disciples chanting the holy names of Krishna.
Remarkable Achievements
Literary Contribution
- •Translated and elaborately commented on over 80 volumes of India's most important sacred texts
- •Complete translation with commentary on Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, and Chaitanya-charitamrita
- •His books have been translated into more than 80 languages
- •Over half a billion books distributed worldwide
Global Movement
- •Established 108 Krishna temples on six continents
- •Initiated 5,000 disciples from diverse backgrounds and nationalities
- •Traveled around the globe 14 times spreading Krishna consciousness
- •Introduced Krishna conscious festivals, food, music, and culture worldwide
Educational Institutions
- •Founded Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, now the world's largest publisher of Vedic literature
- •Established Gurukula educational system for children's spiritual and academic education
- •Initiated the Bhaktivedanta Institute for advanced studies in science and Vedic knowledge
- •Created farm communities worldwide promoting self-sufficiency and simple living
Cultural Impact
- •Introduced and popularized mantra meditation and kirtan worldwide
- •Pioneered vegetarianism and cow protection as spiritual practices
- •Preserved ancient Vedic traditions and arts in modern contexts
- •Inspired millions to adopt spiritual practices in their daily lives
Enduring Legacy
"The human body is a rare opportunity, not to be wasted in pursuit of sense gratification but to be used to achieve the highest perfection of life: revival of our dormant Krishna consciousness."
"We are not this body. We are spiritual souls, part and parcel of Krishna, and we have an eternal relationship with Him that we must revive."
"This Krishna consciousness movement is not a fabrication of the mind. It is the science of the relationship between the living entity and the Supreme Personality of Godhead."
"Books are the basis, purity is the force, preaching is the essence, utility is the principle."
Discover More About Srila Prabhupada
Dive deeper into the life and teachings of Srila Prabhupada through documentaries, lectures, and remembrances from his disciples.