Dear Your Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Śrīla Prabhupāda,
nama oṁ viṣṇu-pādāya kṛṣṇa-preṣṭhāya bhū-tale
śrīmate bhaktivedānta-svāminn iti nāmine
namas te sārasvate deve gaura-vāṇī-pracāriṇe
nirviśeṣa-śūnyavādi-pāścātya-deśa-tāriṇe
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories unto you on this most auspicious appearance day.
O Śrīla Prabhupāda, you are the pure representative of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa and the most merciful spiritual master of this age. In this dark Age of Kali, where people are absorbed in ignorance and material suffering, you brought the brilliant light of Kṛṣṇa consciousness. By your causeless mercy, the holy name of Kṛṣṇa is now being chanted all over the world.
In the year 2026, as I reflect on your unlimited contributions, I can only feel deep gratitude and humility. You gave us everything – the chanting of the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra, your transcendental books, the association of devotees, and the practical process of devotional service. Your instructions remain ever fresh and relevant, guiding conditioned souls like me in every moment of life. You continue to guide through your books, your devotees, and your mission.
You wrote that “Kṛṣṇa consciousness is not an artificial imposition on the mind; it is the original energy of the living entity.” Kindly help me realize this truth practically. Please bless me so that I may chant the holy name attentively, serve the Vaiṣṇavas with humility, and dedicate my life to fulfilling your desire.
Śrīla Prabhupāda, you crossed oceans, faced hardships, and tolerated so much just to deliver fallen souls like me. I have nothing to offer in return except a sincere attempt to follow your instructions. Please engage me in your service, however insignificant that service may be.
Let me become an instrument in your divine mission, free from false ego and selfish motives. Let me always remain under the shelter of your lotus feet and never forget your mercy.
On this sacred Vyāsa-pūjā day, I offer my repeated obeisances unto you again and again. Thank you for giving my life true purpose and direction.
Your insignificant servant,
Bhakti Karuṇamaya Vanamālī Swami