Hyderabad: In a historic moment at the Maha Kumbh Mela, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of ISKCON and the Worldwide Hare Krishna Movement, was conferred with the esteemed title of ‘Vishwa Guru’ by the Akhila Bharatiya Akhara Parishad. Srila Prabhupada is the first and only spiritual leader to receive this distinguished honor.
The grand ceremony was attended by HH Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj, President of the Akhara Parishad, along with Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Niranjani Akhara, and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadhoot Arun Giri Ji Maharaj of Awahan Akhara. Other senior saints, Mahamandaleshwars from various Akharas, secretaries, and thousands of devotees gathered for the occasion. The event was presided over by Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman and Mentor of the Global Hare Krishna Movement and President of ISKCON Bangalore, alongside Shri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Vice Chairman and Co-Mentor of the movement.
The celebrations included an elaborate abhisheka (sacred bathing) of Srila Prabhupada’s deity, followed by a ceremonial Pushpa Vrishti (showering of flowers), a grand arati, and devotional chants. The sacred atmosphere of the Maha Kumbh Mela was filled with reverence as spiritual leaders and devotees honored Srila Prabhupada’s unparalleled contributions.
Expressing his gratitude, Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa remarked, “This is a proud and joyous occasion for the ISKCON community and all followers of Sanatana Dharma. Srila Prabhupada’s recognition as ‘Vishwa Guru’ is a testament to his immense efforts in spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna beyond India’s shores. His vision and devotion have transformed the lives of millions worldwide. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Akhila Bharatiya Akhara Parishad and the revered saints for bestowing this honor upon our Acharya.”
Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj lauded Srila Prabhupada’s work, stating, “Only a divine personality like Srila Prabhupada could have taken the message of Sanatana Dharma to every corner of the world. His teachings on Srimad Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads have been instrumental in reviving spiritual consciousness globally. This title, though long overdue, is well deserved, and we are fortunate to have this opportunity to honor him today.”
HH Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Srila Prabhupada’s role in making the Bhagavad Gita accessible worldwide. “Bestowing the title of ‘Vishwa Guru’ upon Srila Prabhupada is like offering a lamp to the sun. His dedication to spreading the wisdom of Vedanta has left an indelible mark on the world. I urge the youth to follow his path and continue his mission.”
Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadhoot Arun Giri Ji Maharaj reflected on the significance of this recognition, stating, “Srila Prabhupada spread Sanatana Dharma at a time when India faced many challenges. His journey to the West with minimal resources and his success in establishing ISKCON, which now has over 450 temples worldwide, is truly remarkable.”
The conferral of the ‘Vishwa Guru’ title marks a momentous recognition of Srila Prabhupada’s spiritual legacy and his invaluable contributions to preserving and propagating Sanatana Dharma worldwide. The event at the Maha Kumbh Mela reaffirmed his status as a global spiritual leader, inspiring millions to embrace the teachings of Lord Krishna.
