The Appearance Day of

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saravati Thakura Maharaj

On 10th February 2004, devotees observed the Appearance Day of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur Maharaja.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur Maharaja- the 'Lion-Guru' - preached the teachings of Lord Chaitanya with strength and determination, turning the vision of the Gaudiya Vaishnavas into an established mission by forming Gaudiya Maths all over India.

He was known for his photographic memory, extensive writings and his status as a long-life celibate. A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, then known as Abhay Charan De, first encountered Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur in 1922, during one of his many lectures.

During this lecture, Abhay Charan asked "How can these teachings of Mahaprabhu spread around the world when India is occupied by the British?" Bhaktisiddhanta Maharaja replied "Whether one power rules or another, that is a temporary situation. The true reality is Krishna consciousness, which is not dependant on material designation and restrictions.

"You are an educated young man, why don't you take these teachings of Mahaprabhu and preach around the world? I am fully confident that you can explain in English our thoughts and arguments to the people of the world, who are not conversant with the language of our members. This will do much good to yourself and your audience".  

Abhay was very highly impressed, and later, in 19 , took diksa initiation from Bhaktisiddhanta Maharaja. Thus being empowered, Abhay later took sannyasa and took on the name A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. (Known affectionately by ISKCON devotees as Srila Prabhupada). Srila Prabhupada fulfilled the purpose of his Guru Maharaja's mission taking it worldwide through his ISKCON movement. 

A close view of the framed picture of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saravati Maharaj, complete with fresh flower garland.

Bhaktisiddhanta Saravati Thakur and Srila Prabhupada seen together in the temple room.

Ajamil prabhu shares the glories of ISKCON's grandfather during the morning class session.

On 10th February 2004, it was also the Disappearance Day of Srila Gour Govinda Swami. Initiated into ISKCON, taking sannyasi and becoming a diksa guru, he preached extensively in the state of Orissa and beyond. In his honour, his photograph was placed at the feet of Srila Prabhupada and some of his pastimes were shared with devotees.