His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
The spiritual master who brought the ancient wisdom of Bhagavad-gita and Krishna consciousness to the Western world, establishing a worldwide movement that continues to transform lives.
1896-1977
Years on Earth
80+
Books Written
108
Temples Founded
14
World Tours
A Life Dedicated to Service
Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was born on September 1, 1896, in Calcutta, India. From his early childhood, he showed deep devotion to Lord Krishna, organizing Ratha-yatra festivals with his young friends.
In 1922, he met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who requested him to spread the teachings of Lord Chaitanya in the English language. This instruction became the guiding mission of his life.
After decades of preparation, at the age of 69, Srila Prabhupada boarded a cargo ship to America with just forty rupees and a trunk of his translations of sacred texts. Arriving in New York City in 1965, he began chanting in Tompkins Square Park and attracted a small group of sincere seekers.
In just eleven years, he established ISKCON as a worldwide confederation of over 100 temples, farm communities, schools, and restaurants. He initiated over 5,000 disciples, wrote more than 80 books, and circled the globe 14 times to personally guide his growing movement.
"I have not come to take anything from you. I have come to give you something."
Remarkable Achievements
In just eleven years of active preaching in the West, Srila Prabhupada accomplished what seemed impossible.
80+ Books Published
Translated and wrote extensive commentaries on Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and other Vedic literatures
108 Temples Worldwide
Established temples on six continents during his lifetime, now grown to over 600 centers
5,000+ Disciples
Personally initiated thousands of disciples from all backgrounds and nationalities
Food for Life
Started the free food distribution program that now serves millions of meals daily worldwide
Life Timeline
Key moments in the extraordinary life of Srila Prabhupada
Birth
Born as Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896 in Calcutta, India
Meeting with Spiritual Master
First meeting with his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who instructed him to spread Krishna consciousness in English
Initiation
Formally initiated as a disciple of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura at Allahabad
Back to Godhead Magazine
Started Back to Godhead magazine single-handedly, writing, editing, and distributing it
Sannyasa
Accepted the renounced order of life (sannyasa) and began writing commentaries on Vaishnava scriptures
Journey to America
At age 69, traveled to New York City on the cargo ship Jaladuta with just forty rupees and a trunk of books
Founded ISKCON
Established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in New York City
New Vrindaban
Established New Vrindaban, the first ISKCON farming community in West Virginia
Return to India
Returned to India and began establishing major temples in Mayapur and Vrindavan
Departure
Left this world on November 14, 1977 in Vrindavan, having circled the globe 14 times and initiated over 5,000 disciples
Timeless Teachings
Words of wisdom that continue to inspire millions around the world
"The Krishna consciousness movement is not a religious movement. It is a movement to revive the original consciousness of the living entities."
- On the nature of spiritual life
"Chant Hare Krishna and be happy. This is the essence of all Vedic knowledge."
- On the Maha Mantra
"We are not these bodies. We are eternal spirit souls, part and parcel of Krishna."
- On spiritual identity
Literary Legacy
Srila Prabhupada's books are highly respected for their authority, depth, and clarity. They have been translated into over 80 languages, with more than 500 million copies distributed worldwide.
His most celebrated work, Bhagavad-gita As It Is, presents the timeless wisdom of the Gita with illuminating commentary. Scholars and spiritual seekers alike praise it as the most accessible and authentic translation available.
The multi-volume Srimad Bhagavatam and Sri Chaitanya-charitamrita represent monumental achievements in Vedic scholarship, providing a comprehensive understanding of bhakti-yoga and the science of God realization.
Continue the Mission
Srila Prabhupada's mission was to spread Krishna consciousness to every town and village. Join us in continuing this sacred work.