International Society for Krishna Consciousness
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The spiritual master who brought Krishna consciousness to the world
On September 17, 1965, when a 69-year-old Indian spiritual teacher disembarked from a cargo ship at Boston Harbor with just $7 in Indian rupees and a trunk of sacred books, few could have imagined the profound global transformation that would follow.
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was not merely another immigrant—he was on a divine mission to introduce the ancient teachings of Vedic India to the Western world. Born as Abhay Charan De in Calcutta on September 1, 1896, his extraordinary life would prove to fulfill a 500-year-old prophecy made by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
In just twelve remarkable years, from 1965 to 1977, Srila Prabhupada accomplished what seemed impossible: he founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), established over 108 temples across six continents, initiated thousands of disciples, and translated over 70 volumes of ancient Sanskrit scriptures into English.
Born as Abhay Charan De on September 1st, the day after Janmashtami (Lord Krishna's appearance day), in a pious Bengali family in Tollygunge, Calcutta.
Life-changing encounter with Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur, who requested him to spread Krishna consciousness to the English-speaking world.
Received formal initiation in Allahabad and dedicated his life to fulfilling his spiritual master's instruction to preach in English.
Started the "Back to Godhead" magazine, typing, editing, and distributing it single-handedly to spread Krishna consciousness in India.
Accepted the renounced order of life (sannyasa) to fully dedicate himself to spiritual work and preparation for his Western mission.
At age 69, embarked on a cargo ship to New York with $7 and Sanskrit texts, surviving two heart attacks during the 37-day voyage.
Officially incorporated the International Society for Krishna Consciousness on July 13th in New York, beginning the global Hare Krishna movement.
Triumphant return to India with Western disciples, sparking a revival of Krishna consciousness in its homeland and establishing major centers.
Inaugurated the magnificent Krishna-Balaram temple in Vrindavan, fulfilling his dream of a world-class temple in Krishna's homeland.
Entered eternal samadhi on November 14th in Vrindavan, leaving behind a legacy of 108 temples, thousands of disciples, and 70+ books.
Founded ISKCON and established 108+ temples, ashrams, and cultural centers across six continents in just 11 years.
Authored and translated over 70 volumes of ancient Sanskrit texts, making Vedic wisdom accessible to the modern world.
Initiated thousands of disciples and inspired millions worldwide to embrace Krishna consciousness and spiritual life.
Established the world's largest vegetarian food relief program, serving millions of free meals to those in need.
Founded gurukulas (spiritual schools) and educational institutions based on Vedic principles of character development.
Promoted sustainable farm communities based on "simple living, high thinking" principles throughout the world.
The definitive English translation and commentary, making Krishna's teachings accessible to all.
Complete translation of the "cream of Vedic literature" describing Krishna's divine pastimes.
The life and teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the golden incarnation of Krishna.
Srila Prabhupada's books are used as textbooks in universities worldwide and have been praised by scholars for their authenticity, depth, and clarity. They serve as the foundational scriptures of the modern Krishna consciousness movement.
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1534) predicted that the holy name of Krishna would be heard in every town and village of the world. Srila Prabhupada is widely recognized as the empowered personality who appeared to fulfill this 500-year-old prophecy.
Today, ISKCON continues to grow under the guidance of the Governing Body Commission established by Srila Prabhupada. His books remain the foundation of the movement, his temples serve millions of visitors annually, and his teachings continue to transform lives worldwide.
Discover the transformative power of Krishna consciousness through Srila Prabhupada's books and teachings