A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada: His Life and Teachings

A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada

His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was the Founder-Acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). He dedicated his life to sharing the teachings of Sri Krishna and the process of bhakti-yoga with people around the world.

Early Life

Srila Prabhupada was born as Abhay Charan De in Calcutta, India, in 1896. From an early age, he was deeply influenced by devotional traditions and spiritual culture.

He later met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who encouraged him to share the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the English-speaking world.

Beginning His Mission

After years of studying and writing, Srila Prabhupada travelled to the United States in 1965 at the age of 69.

With very limited personal resources, he began teaching Bhagavad-gita, chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, and explaining the principles of Krishna consciousness.

Founding ISKCON

In 1966, Srila Prabhupada established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in New York City.

Under his guidance, the movement developed temples, communities, educational programs, vegetarian restaurants, farms, and cultural centers in many parts of the world.

His Books

Srila Prabhupada translated and wrote extensively on Vedic scriptures. Among his well-known works are:

• Bhagavad-gita As It Is

• Srimad-Bhagavatam

• Sri Chaitanya-charitamrita

• The Nectar of Devotion

• Sri Isopanishad

• Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead

His books continue to be studied by devotees and readers interested in Vedic philosophy and bhakti-yoga.

The Hare Krishna Mahamantra

One of the central practices taught by Srila Prabhupada is chanting the Holy Name of Krishna:

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare

He taught that chanting the Holy Name is a simple and powerful spiritual practice suitable for people in all circumstances.

A Legacy of Devotion and Service

Srila Prabhupada emphasized bhakti, chanting, spiritual knowledge, prasadam, association with devotees, and service to Krishna.

His teachings continue to inspire people to explore spiritual life, cultivate devotion, and understand the principles of Krishna consciousness.

Remembering Srila Prabhupada

Srila Prabhupada's life represents a remarkable journey of dedication to his spiritual mission. Through his books, teachings, disciples, temples, and institutions, his contribution to the worldwide spread of Krishna consciousness remains an important part of ISKCON's history.

Hare Krishna!