PM Modi Releases ₹150 Coin at World Vaishnav Convention 2024

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, released the ₹150 commemorative coin and postal stamp to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary of Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad as part of the World Vaishnav Convention 2024 organised by Gaudiya Mission at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi today, on February 8, 2024.

The Minister of State for Law & Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, and Culture, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, and the Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

Gaudiya Mission, with an unwavering commitment to spreading the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and a dedicated focus on human welfare, had poised itself to commemorate a historic event – the World Vaishnav Convention 2024. The grand assembly, held from February 6th to 8th, served as a tribute to the founder acharya and revered spiritual leader, Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad of Gaudiya Mission.

The Prime Minister began by offering floral tributes to the statue of Acharya Srila Prabhupada before unveiling the commemorative coin and stamp in his honor. As the founder of the Gaudiya Mission, Acharya Srila Prabhupada played a pivotal role in preserving and disseminating the fundamental tenets of the Vaishnava faith.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasized the magnificence of Bharat Mandapam, attributing its grandeur to the presence of numerous revered saints. He highlighted the architectural concept, inspired by the 'Anubhav Mandap' of Lord Basweshwara, which served as a hub for spiritual discussions in ancient India. Reflecting on the occasion, the Prime Minister remarked, "On the 150th birth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada ji, a similar energy can be witnessed inside Bharat Mandapam today." He reiterated the government's commitment to making Bharat Mandapam a center that blends India's modern capabilities with its ancient roots.

PM Modi recalled the recently concluded G20 Summit hosted at the venue, showcasing the possibilities of New India. He expressed gratitude for participating in the World Vaishnav Convention, describing it as a depiction of 'Naya Bharat,' where development and heritage coexist. The Prime Minister bowed before Lord Krishna, paid homage to Srila Prabhupada Ji, and congratulated everyone involved in the release of the postage stamp and commemorative coin in his honor.

The Prime Minister drew attention to the ongoing celebrations of Srila Prabhupada Ji's 150th anniversary in the aftermath of the consecration of the Shri Ram Temple at Ayodhya Dham. Acknowledging the joy evident in people's faces, he attributed the successful completion of this significant endeavor to the blessings of the saints.

Paying tribute to the contribution of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the Prime Minister highlighted his role in creating conditions for experiencing the joy of devotion. He characterized Chaitanya Mahaprabhu as the touchstone of love for Krishna, making spiritualism and meditation accessible to the masses. Reflecting on his personal experience, the Prime Minister shared how the joy of Bhajan Keertan filled a void in his life, emphasizing the transformative power of Chaitanya Prabhu's tradition. He concluded by expressing his devotion during the keertan and acknowledging Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's profound impact on understanding life through the lyricism of Krishna Leela.

This marks the fourth commemorative coin release for the year 2024, minted by the India Government Mint, Kolkata. Stay tuned for upcoming booking details to get updates on booking from the India Government Mint's website.