His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
The glorious spiritual master who, at the age of 69, carried devotion to Lord Krishna from India to the entire world.
108+
Countries Reached
70+
Books Authored
14
Times Around the World
500M+
Books Distributed
His Journey from Devotion to Establishing ISKCON
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is the Founder-Ācārya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Born in Calcutta in 1896, he met his spiritual master Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura in 1922, who charged him with the mission of spreading Krishna consciousness in the English language.
For the next four decades, Srila Prabhupada prepared for this mission — writing articles, translating scriptures, and ultimately making the extraordinary journey to New York City at the age of 69, arriving with just forty rupees and a few boxes of books.
In his final stage of life, while facing many hardships, he spread Sanatan Dharma and the message of Lord Sri Krishna throughout the world with extraordinary determination.
Because of his efforts, Lord Krishna's names, teachings, and festivals like Jagannath Rath Yatra are now celebrated across countries and cultures globally.
His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (1896–1977)“I am not a scholar, I am not a philosopher. I am just a humble servant of my spiritual master, trying to carry out his orders. Whatever I have done, I have done by his grace.”
— His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Life Timeline
Divine Appearance
Born on September 1, 1896 in Calcutta, India. Named Abhay Charan De.
Meeting His Guru
Met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who instructed him to spread Krishna consciousness in the English language.
Back to Godhead
Founded the magazine "Back to Godhead" — which continues to be published today — to spread Vaishnava teachings.
Renunciation
Accepted the renounced order of life (sannyasa) and began preparations to travel West.
Journey to America
At age 69, traveled alone to New York City on a cargo ship with very little money, carrying his manuscripts of the Srimad-Bhagavatam.
ISKCON Founded
Established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in New York City on July 13, 1966.
Global Expansion
Opened over 100 temples worldwide, established farm communities and gurukulas, and initiated thousands of disciples.
Divine Departure
Departed this world on November 14, 1977 in Vrindavana, India, leaving behind a global movement, 108 temples, and transcendental books.
Transcendental Literature
Srila Prabhupada's books remain the cornerstone of Vedic education and are studied daily by millions of readers around the world.
Bhagavad-gita As It Is
The most widely read edition of the Bhagavad-gita. A clear, faithful translation with extensive commentary.
Srimad-Bhagavatam
18,000 verses in 12 cantos. Srila Prabhupada translated and commented on the first 9 cantos before his passing.
Sri Chaitanya-Charitamrita
17 volumes covering the life and teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Nectar of Devotion
A summary study of Bhakti-rasamrita-sindhu by Srila Rupa Goswami — the authoritative text on bhakti-yoga.
Nectar of Instruction
A condensed guide on the essentials of devotional practice.
Easy Journey to Other Planets
Vedic cosmology and the science of spiritual travel.
Continue the Tradition
The best way to honor Srila Prabhupada's mission is to read his books and practice what he taught. ISKCON Kanpur continues to carry his vision forward.