FOUNDER-ACHARYA
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada
"The spiritual master opens our eyes with the torch of knowledge"
EARLY LIFE
Born as Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896, in Calcutta, Srila Prabhupada grew up in a devout Hindu family. In his youth, he became involved with Mahatma Gandhi's civil disobedience movement. However, a pivotal meeting in 1922 with Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, a prominent Gaudiya Vaishnava scholar, changed the course of his life. At his spiritual master's request, he dedicated himself to spreading Krishna consciousness in the English-speaking world.
LIFE JOURNEY
Birth of a Divine Soul
Born as Abhay Charan De in Calcutta, India
Spiritual Awakening
First meeting with his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, who requested him to spread Krishna consciousness in English-speaking countries
Formal Initiation
Received formal initiation from Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, marking the beginning of his spiritual journey
Literary Beginning
Started 'Back to Godhead' magazine, laying the foundation for his future literary contributions
Sannyasa Initiation
Accepted sannyasa (renounced order of life), dedicating himself fully to his spiritual master's mission
Journey to America
At age 69, embarked on a historic journey to New York aboard the cargo ship Jaladuta, carrying only 40 rupees and his translations. Survived two heart attacks during the journey
ISKCON Foundation
Established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in New York City, beginning a worldwide spiritual movement
Global Expansion
Circled the globe 14 times, establishing:
- 108 Krishna temples worldwide
- Farm communities and educational institutions
- The world's largest vegetarian food relief program
- Initiated thousands of disciples globally
Literary Legacy
Produced his most significant works:
- Bhagavad-gita As It Is
- 30-volume Srimad-Bhagavatam
- 17-volume Sri Caitanya-caritamrita
- Over 70 volumes in total, translated into 76 languages
Final Journey
Departed from this world in Vrindavan, India, leaving behind a thriving worldwide movement and an invaluable spiritual legacy
MISSION & ACHIEVEMENTS
Journey to the West
At 69, traveled to New York on cargo ship, surviving two heart attacks, with just seven dollars and his translations.
ISKCON Foundation
Established first temple in New York's Lower East Side and founded ISKCON on July 11, 1966.
Global Impact
Circled the globe 14 times, establishing over 100 temples and initiating thousands of disciples worldwide.
Literary Contribution
Authored over 70 volumes on Krishna consciousness, translated into 76 languages, including the renowned Bhagavad-gita As It Is.
ENDURING LEGACY
Srila Prabhupada's legacy continues through ISKCON's worldwide activities: temple worship, educational institutions, cultural centers, and the world's largest vegetarian food relief program. His books are used as textbooks in numerous college courses, and his translations are respected by scholars for their authority and fidelity to tradition.
"Śrīla Prabhupāda's role as Founder-Ācārya of ISKCON continues to guide and inspire devotees worldwide."