The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) was founded by A. C. Bhaktidanta Swami Prabhupada, a renowned spiritual leader who was born Abhay Charan De in Kolkata, India, on September 1, 1896. Known by his followers as Srila Prabhupada, he dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna and the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
ЁЯзШтАНтЩВя╕П Early Life and Spiritual Inclination
Born into a devout Vaishnava family, Abhay Charan was spiritually inclined from a young age. In 1922, he met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur, his spiritual mentor, who gave him the mission to spread Krishna consciousness throughout the English-speaking world. 3. Despite being married and employed as a chemist, Abhay continued to write and translate spiritual writings because of his strong devotion to Lord Krishna.
тЬИя╕П Journey to the West and Founding of ISKCON
In 1965, at the age of 69, Srila Prabhupada boarded a cargo ship, Jaladuta, to the United States with barely any money and a crate of his books. He started ISKCON in New York City in 1966, despite many problems. This was the start of a spiritual movement around the world.
Under his leadership, ISKCON spread to six continents, opening over 100 temples, farm communities, and schools. He introduced the Hare Krishna Mahamantra to millions:
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare
ЁЯУЪ Literary Legacy
Srila Prabhupada was a prolific writer and translator. His most notable works include:
- Bhagavad Gita As It Is
- Srimad Bhagavatam (18,000 verses)
- Chaitanya Charitamrita
These texts are revered worldwide for their deep philosophical insights and devotional clarity.
ЁЯСитАНЁЯСйтАНЁЯСз Srila Prabhupada Son and Family Life
Before taking sannyasa (renounced life), Srila Prabhupada was married to Radharani Devi, and they had several children. Srila PrabhupadaтАЩs son, Vrindavan Chandra De, is known to have remained in India and did not actively participate in ISKCON. Prabhupada distanced himself from family life to fully dedicate himself to spiritual service.
ЁЯХпя╕П At What Age Srila Prabhupada Died
Srila Prabhupada passed away on November 14, 1977, in Vrindavan, India, at the age of 81. He left behind a global legacy of bhakti (devotion), with millions of followers continuing his mission.
ЁЯТ░ A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada Net Worth
As a renounced monk, Srila Prabhupada personally held no material wealth. However, ISKCON, the institution he founded, became financially stable through donations, book sales, and temple contributions. His personal net worth was virtually zero, as he lived a life of simplicity and detachment. The focus was always on spiritual wealth rather than material accumulation.\
ЁЯМН Legacy and Influence
Srila PrabhupadaтАЩs contributions transformed the spiritual landscape globally:
- Established ISKCON temples in over 100 countries.
- Inspired millions to adopt vegetarianism and chanting.
- Translated over 70 volumes of Vedic scriptures.
- Opened Gurukuls (Vedic schools) and promoted Vedic education.
Today, ISKCON continues to thrive, celebrating major festivals like Janmashtami, Rath Yatra, and Gaura Purnima, while distributing millions of books annually.
ЁЯФЪ Conclusion
A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada was more than a saintтАФhe was a spiritual visionary who bridged ancient wisdom with the modern world. His unwavering devotion, fearless preaching, and deep compassion continue to inspire generations of seekers. Through ISKCON, his legacy lives on, reminding us all of the power of devotion and divine love.
ЁЯФН FAQs
Q1: Who was Srila Prabhupada’s son?
Ans: His son was Vrindavan Chandra De, who stayed in India and did not actively participate in ISKCON activities.
Q2: At what age Srila Prabhupada died?
Ans: He passed away at the age of 81 in 1977.
Q3: What was A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s net worth?
Ans: As a sannyasi, he had no personal net worth. He lived simply, dedicating all resources to spiritual service.