Dearest, most beloved eternal master, Your Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda,
Please accept our most humble obeisances at the dust of your divine lotus feet. On this most auspicious day of your Vyāsa-pūjā, the assembled devotees of ISKCON Siliguri gather in gratitude, reverence, and deep affection to offer this small token of homage. Words feel insufficient today, yet our hearts compel us to try, for glorifying you is both our duty and our greatest fortune.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, you are the divine instrument of the Supreme Lord’s compassion. In an age marked by confusion, distraction, and spiritual forgetfulness, you carried the eternal message of Lord Kṛṣṇa across oceans and continents, delivering it with purity, courage, and unwavering faith. You did not simply teach philosophy, but you gave life, direction, and purpose to countless souls who were wandering without shelter. You once said “I have no personal qualification, but I simply tried to satisfy my guru, that’s all.” (Arrival address, Los Angeles, 20 June 20 1975)
In this statement lies the essence of your greatness. Your humility shines brighter than any achievement, and yet your achievements are unparalleled. By your obedience to your spiritual master, Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, you fulfilled the deepest desire of Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu to spread the holy name of Kṛṣṇa to every town and village.
We reflect upon your journey to the West, made at an advanced age and carrying only a few rupees and a trunk of books. Externally, it appeared impossible, but internally, you were fully empowered. As you prayed when you reached America, “O Lord, I am just like a puppet in Your hands. So if You have brought me here to dance, then make me dance.” (Jaladuta Diary, 1965). This prayer continues to echo in the hearts of your followers, reminding us that true strength comes from complete surrender.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, through your books, you gave us your eternal association. Your translations of and purports to the Bhagavad-gītā, Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, and Caitanya-caritāmṛta are not mere commentaries; they are living guides filled with realization, clarity, and divine compassion. You have made the highest truths accessible even to the simplest hearts. You taught us how to see the world through the eyes of śāstra and how to live a life centered on devotional service.
You instructed, “Chant Hare Kṛṣṇa and be happy.” This simple instruction has transformed lives. In a world searching for complicated solutions, you gave the most direct and powerful process, the chanting of the holy name. Through this, you connected us to Kṛṣṇa, to one another, and to our own true selves.
As devotees of ISKCON Siliguri, we feel especially indebted to you. Whatever little service we are able to render, whatever understanding we possess, and whatever devotion awakens within our hearts, all are your causeless mercy. You have given us a spiritual home, a community centered on Kṛṣṇa, and a mission that brings meaning to our lives.
You taught us not only philosophy but culture, discipline, and compassion. You showed us how to worship the Deity, honor prasādam, serve the Vaiṣṇavas, and dedicate every aspect of life to Kṛṣṇa. Your instructions are practical, clear, and timeless.
At the same time, you were deeply personal and caring. You guided your disciples like a loving father, correcting when needed, encouraging always, and inspiring everyone to rise to their highest potential in Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Even today, through your teachings and example, we feel your presence guiding us.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, we know that we are far from ideal. Our minds are restless, our determination often weak, and our service inconsistent. Yet, despite our shortcomings, you have not rejected us. Instead, you give us hope that by sincerely following your instructions, we can gradually become purified and develop love for Kṛṣṇa. You write, “This Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement is the greatest boon to human society.” (Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 4.29.76–77, purport).
We see this truth unfolding daily. Wherever your movement reaches, lives are transformed, hearts are softened, and divine purpose is awakened. We pray to become worthy instruments in this mission.
On this sacred day, we make a humble prayer at your divine lotus feet:
Please bless us that we may always remain faithful to your instructions. Please bless us that we may work together in unity and humility. Please bless us that we may develop genuine taste for chanting the holy name. Please bless us that we may serve your mission with sincerity and dedication. May we never forget that everything we have is because of you. May we always remember that our real success lies in pleasing you.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, you are our eternal guide, ever well-wisher, and shelter in all circumstances. Your life is our inspiration, your words are our direction, and your mercy is our only hope.
On behalf of all the devotees of ISKCON Siliguri, we offer our repeated obeisances unto your divine lotus feet.
Your insignificant servant,
Akhilātmā Priya Dāsa, temple president
on behalf of the devotees of ISKCON Siliguri