Our Founder - Acharya
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (1896-1977) founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and brought the timeless teachings of bhakti-yoga to the Western world.
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Founder-Acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Early Life
Srila Prabhupada was born as Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896, in Calcutta, India. From an early age, he showed a deep spiritual inclination. In 1922, he met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who asked him to spread the teachings of Krishna Consciousness in the English language.
Despite his spiritual calling, Srila Prabhupada initially led the life of a householder, running a small pharmaceutical business to support his family. However, he never forgot his spiritual master's instruction, and in 1944, he began publishing "Back to Godhead," an English-language magazine focused on spiritual topics.
Literary Contributions
Srila Prabhupada translated over 80 volumes of the most important Vedic scriptures into English, including Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Srimad-Bhagavatam, and Sri Caitanya-caritamrta. His clear translations and elaborate purports have made ancient wisdom accessible to people worldwide.
Global Mission
At the age of 69, when most people retire, Srila Prabhupada embarked on his greatest mission—bringing Krishna Consciousness to the Western world. Traveling by cargo ship to New York in 1965, he began teaching and established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in 1966.
Teachings
Srila Prabhupada presented Krishna Consciousness in a way that was relatable to modern audiences while preserving the authenticity of the tradition. He emphasized the practice of bhakti-yoga, chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra, studying scripture, and leading a life of spiritual discipline.
Legacy
In just twelve years (1965-1977), Srila Prabhupada established 108 temples worldwide, wrote and published dozens of books, initiated thousands of disciples, and created a spiritual movement that continues to grow today. His emphasis on practical spirituality and compassion has inspired millions.
Words of Wisdom
"The spiritual master opens our eyes with the torch of knowledge."
- Srila Prabhupada
"We are not this body. We are spiritual souls."
- Srila Prabhupada
"The perfection of yoga is to become Krishna conscious."
- Srila Prabhupada
"Devotional service means activities of the soul, not of the mind or body."
- Srila Prabhupada
"Life is not meant for enjoying this material world, but for understanding Krishna."
- Srila Prabhupada
"Real happiness is Krishna consciousness."
- Srila Prabhupada
Extraordinary Achievements
In just twelve years after arriving in the West, and despite his advanced age, Srila Prabhupada accomplished what would be impossible for most people:
- Circled the globe 14 times on lecture tours
- Established 108 Krishna temples on six continents
- Initiated over 5,000 disciples
- Created the world's largest vegetarian food relief program (Food for Life)
- Founded the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, which has distributed over 500 million books and magazines
- Introduced Vedic philosophy and culture to millions worldwide
Experience His Teachings
Visit ISKCON Barasat to learn more about Srila Prabhupada's life and teachings. Our temple continues his legacy by practicing and sharing the timeless wisdom of Krishna Consciousness.