Prabhupāda's Interests in Spreading Kṛṣṇa Consciousness
Śrīla Prabhupāda often shared with his disciples that his interests were completely non-different from the mission of his spiritual master. He traveled the world in his old age, not for sightseeing or personal gain, but because he was deeply interested in the welfare of every living entity. By observing what Śrīla Prabhupāda found interesting—such as the publication of books and the success of his students—we can learn how to align our own interests with the pleasure of Kṛṣṇa.
The Priority of Writing and Publishing
For Śrīla Prabhupāda, the most important work was the translation and writing of his books. He often told his disciples that while others might be interested in temple construction, his specific interest was given to him by his Guru Mahārāja: to publish and distribute transcendental knowledge as the solid ground for preaching.
- After taking sannyasa I was more engaged in writing my books without any attempt to construct temples or to make disciples like my Godbrothers. I was not very much interested in these matters because my Guru Maharaja liked very much publication of books.
- I am an old man now, and my interests are turning to philosophy and translation. If you help me by relieving me from this administrative work, that will free me to give you so many more fine books from Vedic literature and from our own devotional line.
- I have come here in this old age neither for sight seeing nor for any personal interest. It is for the interest of the entire humanity that I am trying to implement the science of Krishna which will actually make them happy.
- My Guru Maharaja was very kind upon me because I was very much interested to hear him.
Global Expansion and Preaching Strategies
Śrīla Prabhupāda monitored the growth of the movement across the globe with great enthusiasm. He was especially interested in seeing Americans take up this mission and spread it, noting that their acceptance of Kṛṣṇa consciousness would make their nation truly glorious and influential for the rest of the world.
- I am especially interested to see the Americans spread this movement. America is already blessed by Krishna, and if they become Krishna conscious, they will become more glorious. There is an Indian saying, "fragrance in gold."
- I am interested to open many centers all over the world and if you help us in this matter for opening a center in Guyana, it will be a great service to the society.
- The description of Krsna Consciousness movement in London gives me a great pleasure with hope and interest.
- I am this old age, I cannot move. Still I am traveling all over the world. I am simply interested that whatever I have done, it may not be vanquished in my absence. Let me go and encourage them.
Cultivating the Intelligent Class of Men
Śrīla Prabhupāda had a particular interest in reaching out to university students and scholars. He recognized that those who are intelligent and inquisitive are the best candidates for understanding the profound philosophy of the Bhagavad-gītā, provided they are approached nicely and guided toward the truth.
- I am especially interested in your college program for the students, because they are intelligent and inquisitive to understand the higher things of knowledge, so try to approach them nicely and lead them gradually into Krsna Consciousness.
- We are not concerned with a scholar who knows theoretically Caitanya Vaisnava Movement but we are interested with persons who are actually devotees who actually chant Hare Krsna Mahamantra and follows the regulative principles.
- We are trying to set a perfect example according to the Bhagavad-gita as it is, how to execute simple living and high thinking. We are not interested in any material comforts of life which are limited and temporary.
- So I am just interested, but people will, many people will come and many theories. So you discuss among yourself how to get the strength to defend yourself and to convince them.
Prabhupāda's Interest in Devotional Creations of his Disciples
The fatherly affection of Śrīla Prabhupāda is evident in his interest in the personal lives and creative efforts of his disciples. He took great pleasure in reading their books, articles, and poems, and he personally ensured that their social lives were arranged to support their steady progress in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
- Just to save my students, both boys and girls, from sinful activities, I am personally taking interest that they may become good gentleman and lady by marriage.
- With great delight and interest I have gone through your "Eight Verses in Praise of My Spiritual Master." The style is very nice and thoughtful.
- I have read with great interest your article especially the one which is named as "CHALAR PATHE." It is not only very amusing but also instructive.
- Since I have come to Honolulu from Melbourne, I got the opportunity to read your nice book "Hare Krishna and the Counterculture" with profound interest.
Conclusion
Śrīla Prabhupāda's interests reflect the heart of a pure devotee whose only desire is to see the entire world awakened to its original spiritual identity. Whether he was discussing the intricacies of translation, the expansion of a new center, or the well-being of a single student, his focus remained on the will of the previous ācāryas. By following these interests, we can ensure that Śrīla Prabhupāda's mission is never vanquished and that the light of Kṛṣṇa consciousness continues to shine for generations to come.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category My Interests (Prabhupada). We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.