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Prabhupada Svami (Bhaktivedanta)An Indian religious leader and writer who founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, better known as the Hare Krishna movement, in 1965.
Date of Birth: 01.09.1896
Country:  India |
Content:
- Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
- Founding the Gaudiya Mission
- Becoming a Sannyasi and the Mission to the West
- Founding the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
- Global Expansion and Spiritual Influence
- Legacy and Impact
Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Prabhupada Bhaktivedanta Swami (born Abhay Charan De) was born in 1896 in Calcutta, India. In 1922, he met his spiritual teacher, Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati, a renowned reformer of the Vaishnava tradition. Recognizing his intellect and fervor, Saraswati encouraged him to dedicate his life to propagating Vaishnavism in English.
Founding the Gaudiya Mission
Prabhupada joined the Gaudiya Mission, a Vaishnava reform movement, and immersed himself in studying and teaching its scriptures. He wrote commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita and in 1944 founded the English-language magazine "Back to Godhead", which is still published worldwide by his disciples.
Becoming a Sannyasi and the Mission to the West
In 1950, Prabhupada entered the renounced order of life as a vanaprastha. In 1959, he became a sannyasi, dedicating himself fully to spiritual pursuits. Inspired by his spiritual teacher's instructions, he began translating the Bhagavata Purana into English.
Founding the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
In 1965, Prabhupada embarked on his mission to the West. Arriving in New York with meager possessions, he established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in 1966. Within a year, ISKCON had become a thriving movement, attracting followers worldwide.
Global Expansion and Spiritual Influence
Over the next twelve years, Prabhupada tirelessly traveled the globe, establishing over 100 temples, initiating thousands of disciples, and spreading the message of Krishna consciousness. His teachings on the Bhagavad Gita, the Srimad Bhagavatam, and other Vedic scriptures continue to inspire spiritual seekers around the world.
Legacy and Impact
Prabhupada Bhaktivedanta Swami passed away in 1977, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. ISKCON has grown into one of the most influential Vaishnava movements globally, promoting spiritual practices, serving communities, and preserving the ancient wisdom of Vedic culture.
