Explore how Lord Krishna’s divine guidance inspired Srila Prabhupada to emerge as the Vishwa Guru, spreading spiritual wisdom and devotion across the globe.

This sacred mantra that now resonates in homes across the world was once unfamiliar beyond India. It was through the untiring efforts of a devoted soul that this divine sound spread to every corner of the earth. That great soul was none other than Srila Prabhupada, whose life’s mission was not just his own endeavour, but the divine will of Lord Krishna. It was Krishna’s desire that led him to become the Vishwa Guru, the spiritual master of the universe.

The Significance of Lord Krishna’s Desire

According to the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna is the cause of all causes because He is all-attractive. Nothing happens without His divine will; every longing, every mission, and every transformation in this world originates from Him.

Over five hundred years ago, Lord Krishna appeared as Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in Navadvipa, a village in West Bengal. The purpose of His appearance was to inaugurate the Sankirtana Movement, considered to be the only way to achieve spiritual realization in Kali-yuga. He declared that the chanting of His holy names would spread beyond the shores of India to every town and village in the world. He also predicted that His commander-in-chief would appear to accomplish this mission.

The life of Srila Prabhupada is a profound example of this prophecy coming true. His journey from a householder to the world’s greatest spiritual teacher was not a coincidence but a manifestation of Lord Krishna’s divine desire.

The Early Life of Srila Prabhupada

Srila Prabhupada was born on September 1, 1896, in Kolkata, India. His birth name was Abhay Charan De. He pursued his education at Scottish Church College.

During his college days, Abhay was persuaded by his close friends to meet with Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, a Vaishnava scholar, teacher and the Founder of the Gaudiya Math, a spiritual institution for spreading the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. At first, Abhay was hesitant, but after much persuasion, he finally agreed to go.

They entered his ashram, and in their very first meeting, the guru looked at Abhay and told him:

“You are an intelligent young man. You should spread the teachings of Lord Krishna in the English-speaking world.”

At first, Abhay strongly believed that for now, India’s freedom was the most important and wondered, How can we share our Indian culture while still under British rule? But after hearing Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati’s insightful response, Abhay felt a deep respect for him and, in his heart, accepted him as his guru.

The Life-Changing Message

As the years passed, Abhay Charan established himself as a successful pharmaceutical businessman. While continuing to support his spiritual master’s mission financially, he felt a growing desire to contribute more meaningfully.  

One day, he wrote a heartfelt letter to his guru expressing his deep desire, humbly asking if he could offer more direct service.

The response he received was both devastating and life-altering. His revered guru, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, had passed away just two weeks earlier. Yet, alongside this sorrowful news, the letter carried a profound instruction that would define Abhay’s life’s purpose:  

“You try to preach whatever you have learned from me to the English-speaking people of the world. That will be good for you and for the people to whom you preach.”

This final message became Abhay’s ultimate mission. Determined to fulfil his guru’s wish, he gradually renounced material pursuits and dedicated himself entirely to spreading the message of Krishna across the world.

The Journey to the West

As time passed, Srila Prabhupada’s desire to share the teachings of Krishna took deep root in his heart. To lay the foundation for his life’s mission, he launched a magazine called Back to Godhead, single-handedly writing, editing, and publishing each issue with unwavering dedication, despite facing numerous challenges.

Seeking a more focused spiritual life, Abhay Charan moved to Vrindavan, where he took sannyasa, formally initiated with the name A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami. There, he began translating the Srimad-Bhagavatam, a task he considered his life’s mission, understanding its vital role in spreading Krishna consciousness to the world.

After years of preparation, he took a bold and historic step, travelling to America to share Krishna’s message globally, as instructed by his guru. In 1965, at the age of 69, he embarked on this journey with minimal possessions: a small suitcase, an umbrella, a modest supply of dry cereal, about seven dollars worth of Indian currency (approximately 40 rupees), and several boxes of his books. His vessel was no luxury liner but the MV Jaladuta, a humble cargo ship.

The journey was not easy. During the 35-day journey, Srila Prabhupada endured two severe heart attacks, leaving his health in a fragile state. Yet, through Krishna’s divine grace, he survived. Finally, he arrived in New York City, standing alone in a foreign land but carrying with him an unshakable faith and a mission that would transform the spiritual landscape of the world.

The Struggles and the Birth of a Global Movement

In America, Srila Prabhupada faced immense hardships. He had no money and nowhere to stay. Yet, his determination never wavered. He began conducting kirtans in Tompkins Square Park, attracting young seekers looking for spiritual truth.

Slowly, his message began to spread, and soon, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) was born in 1966. What started as a small gathering of curious individuals soon grew into a global movement.

The Impact of His Teachings Globally

Books & Literature: Srila Prabhupada translated and wrote commentaries on major Vedic scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita As It Is, Srimad Bhagavatam, and Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita. His books have been translated into over 80 languages and continue to transform millions of lives.

Temples & Communities: He established over 100 temples worldwide, creating spiritual sanctuaries for devotees.

Hare Krishna Mantra: He popularised the chanting of the holy names globally, making it a household practice.

Prasadam Distribution: His movement introduced millions to the principles of compassionate eating (food meant for human consumption) and spiritual food sanctified by Lord Krishna.

Cultural Revolution: Through Ratha Yatras, festivals, and outreach programs, he made Bhakti Yoga accessible to people of all backgrounds.

The Vishwa Guru: A Divine Plan Fulfilled

Everything that happened in Srila Prabhupada’s life was guided by Lord Krishna’s will. Despite his worldwide achievements, Srila Prabhupada maintained a low profile, allowing his struggles and greatness to remain in the background. His journey from a humble devotee in Kolkata to the Vishwa Guru was Lord Krishna’s divine arrangement.

Today, ISKCON stands as one of the most influential spiritual organizations in the world, proving that when Krishna desires something, even the impossible becomes possible.

Srila Prabhupada’s legacy continues to inspire millions, reminding us that Krishna’s will is the ultimate force behind all great endeavours. His life is an example of pure devotion, surrender, and unwavering faith in the Supreme Lord.

Let us honour his mission by deepening our own devotion and sharing Krishna’s love with the world.