​An 8-Lesson Journey Through His Life, Mission and Legacy

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The Śrīla Prabhupāda Introductory Course offers a systematic study of the life, character, teachings and extraordinary achievements of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda, Founder-Ācārya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

Through historical study, guided discussions and personal reflection, participants will deepen their appreciation for Śrīla Prabhupāda, understand the foundations of his worldwide mission and discover practical ways to help carry that mission forward.

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Course Curriculum

The course consists of eight lessons covering Śrīla Prabhupāda’s life—from his childhood and early preaching efforts to the worldwide expansion of ISKCON and his enduring legacy.

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Lesson 1: Śrīla Prabhupāda’s Childhood and Youth

Explore the formative years of Śrīla Prabhupāda and the spiritual influences that prepared him for his future mission.

Participants will:

• Understand the purpose and significance of studying Śrīla Prabhupāda’s life.

• Identify important events from his childhood and youth.

• Explore the influence of his father, Gour Mohan De.

• Appreciate the devotional foundation established during his early life.

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Lesson 2: Preaching in India—1922 to 1955

Study Śrīla Prabhupāda’s relationship with his spiritual master and his early efforts to share Kṛṣṇa consciousness in India.

Participants will:

• Examine his meetings with Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura and their lasting impact.

• Understand the significance of his English writing and preaching.

• Explore his preaching activities in Jhansi and Delhi.

• Recognize the Vaiṣṇava qualities he demonstrated while facing challenges.

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Lesson 3: Preparation for Preaching Abroad—1955 to 1965

Discover how Śrīla Prabhupāda prepared to fulfill his spiritual master’s instruction to spread Kṛṣṇa consciousness throughout the Western world.

Participants will:

• Understand the significance of his residence in Vṛndāvana.

• Reflect upon the devotional mood expressed in Vṛndāvana-bhajana.

• Study his determined efforts to write and publish Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.

• Review the events leading to his historic journey to the West.

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Lesson 4: The Jaladuta Journey and Preaching in 1965

Follow Śrīla Prabhupāda’s courageous voyage aboard the Jaladuta and his earliest preaching activities in America.

Participants will:

• Discuss significant entries from the Jaladuta diary.

• Study selected verses from Mārkine Bhāgavata-dharma.

• Learn about his stay in Butler, Pennsylvania.

• Trace his journey from Butler to the Bowery and 26 Second Avenue.

• Appreciate his dependence upon Kṛṣṇa, compassion and perseverance.

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Lesson 5: Foundational Events—1966 to 1969

Examine the establishment of ISKCON and the principles that shaped the early Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement.

Participants will:

• Study the seven purposes of ISKCON.

• Identify practical ways to contribute to those purposes.

• Explore foundational developments between 1966 and 1969.

• Understand Śrīla Prabhupāda’s vision for New Vrindaban and self-sufficient communities.

• Study the development of the London yātrā.

• Appreciate the pioneering spirit demonstrated by the early devotees.

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Lesson 6: In Every Town and Village—1970 to 1974

Explore the rapid international expansion of Śrīla Prabhupāda’s mission and his efforts to establish major spiritual projects.

Participants will:

• Study Śrīla Prabhupāda’s historic visit to Russia.

• Explore the development of preaching in Africa.

• Identify principles behind the establishment of Māyāpur and Vṛndāvana.

• Examine the struggle to acquire and protect the Juhu property.

• Recognize Śrīla Prabhupāda’s determination, leadership and unwavering faith.

• Consider how these qualities can be applied personally.

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Lesson 7: Book Distribution and the Publication of Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta—1975 to 1976

Understand the central importance Śrīla Prabhupāda placed upon distributing transcendental literature.

Participants will:

• Study Śrīla Prabhupāda’s instructions concerning book distribution.

• Learn about the extraordinary publication of Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta.

• Appreciate the surrender and cooperation demonstrated by the BBT team.

• Explore the acquisition of the Fisher Mansion in Detroit.

• Study Śrīla Prabhupāda’s meeting with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

• Understand the significance of the New York Ratha-yātrā.

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Lesson 8: “My Mission Is Successful”

Reflect upon Śrīla Prabhupāda’s final teachings, challenges, departure and continuing legacy.

Participants will:

• Examine his responses to the anti-cult movement.

• Study the events surrounding his final visits to Bombay and Māyāpur.

• Reflect upon Śrīla Prabhupāda’s departure from this world.

• Understand the continuing importance of his teachings and example.

• Discuss the role of the introductory course in preserving his mission for future generations.

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Course Objectives

By completing this course, participants will:

• Develop a deeper understanding of Śrīla Prabhupāda’s life and personality.

• Appreciate his relationship with his spiritual master.

• Understand the sacrifices through which he established ISKCON worldwide.

• Recognize the foundational principles and purposes of his movement.

• Strengthen their personal connection with Śrīla Prabhupāda.

• Identify practical ways to serve and continue his mission.

• Cultivate the pioneering, cooperative and selfless spirit demonstrated by Śrīla Prabhupāda and his followers.

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Who Can Attend?

This course is suitable for:

• Devotees seeking a stronger connection with Śrīla Prabhupāda.

• Newcomers interested in understanding the origins of ISKCON.

• Congregational members and aspiring disciples.

• Youth and young adults seeking to understand Śrīla Prabhupāda’s legacy.

• Teachers, community leaders and preachers.

• Anyone inspired to learn about the person who carried Kṛṣṇa consciousness throughout the world.

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Course Format

• Eight structured lessons

• Guided study and discussion

• Historical accounts and selected readings

• Personal reflection and practical application

• Interactive learning activities

• Opportunities to discuss how participants can contribute to Śrīla Prabhupāda’s mission

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Recommended Website Information Panel

You can add these details once finalized:

• Course begins:  TBD

• Class schedule: TBD

• Course duration: Eight sessions

• Mode: [In person / Online]

• Location: ISKCON Tri-Central Valley, 6711 Sierra Ct, Suite B, Dublin, CA 94568

• Course facilitator: H.G. Balimardan Das

• Registration fee: $49

• Registration deadline:  TBD

• Contact: (925) 230-8190