2021 - Srila Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada | Commemorative Coin

The 2nd commemorative coin of 2021 was released to mark the 125th Birth Anniversary of Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of Iskcon.

Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada stands as one of the most influential spiritual teachers of the twentieth century, revered for carrying the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam beyond the shores of India and presenting them to the world in their authentic, devotional form. Born Abhay Charan De on September 1, 1896, in Kolkata, he grew up in a deeply spiritual environment that nurtured his lifelong inclination toward bhakti, devotion to Lord Krishna. His meeting with his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, in 1922 marked a turning point in his life, as he was urged to preach the message of Krishna consciousness in the English language for the benefit of the world. Although the responsibilities of family life and professional duties occupied his early years, he remained steadfast in his devotion, writing and translating spiritual works whenever he could.

In 1959, after taking sannyasa, the renounced order of life, he fully dedicated himself to fulfilling his guru’s instruction. With unwavering determination, he worked tirelessly on translating the Srimad Bhagavatam, publishing its first volumes singlehandedly. In 1965, at the age of sixty-nine, he embarked on a historic journey to the United States aboard the cargo ship Jaladuta, enduring severe hardship during the voyage. Arriving in New York with minimal resources, he began teaching in a modest storefront on the Lower East Side, where his message of devotion, universal brotherhood, and spiritual awakening gradually drew the attention of young seekers.

The establishment of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in 1966 marked the beginning of a global spiritual movement that would transform countless lives. Under his guidance, ISKCON grew swiftly, spreading to major cities across the world. Srila Prabhupada translated and authored more than sixty volumes of spiritual literature, including the Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Srimad Bhagavatam, Sri Caitanya-caritamrita, and various other texts that continue to serve as foundational works for students of bhakti. His writings are celebrated for their clarity, philosophical depth, and deep devotional conviction, making ancient spiritual wisdom accessible to modern readers.

Beyond literature, Srila Prabhupada’s contributions encompassed the establishment of temples, farm communities, educational institutions, and cultural festivals that showcased India’s spiritual heritage. He emphasized the universal nature of bhakti, teaching that love of God transcends all boundaries of nationality, race, and religion. His guidance in deity worship, kirtan, and prasadam distribution created vibrant centers of devotion worldwide. His mission also revitalized global interest in Vedic culture, vegetarianism, and values centered on compassion, simplicity, and harmony with nature.

Srila Prabhupada’s life remains a living example of faith, determination, and surrender to the divine. Through his profound legacy, he awakened spiritual consciousness across continents and inspired millions to embrace the path of devotion to Lord Krishna. Even decades after his passing in 1977 at Vrindavan, his teachings continue to illuminate hearts, offering solace, purpose, and a timeless message of love and devotion.

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