Srila Prabhupada Honored as 'Vishwa Guru' at Maha Kumbh Mela

 

Mumbai: During the auspicious 'Maha Kumbh Mela', His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of ISKCON and the Worldwide Hare Krishna Movement, was conferred the prestigious title of Vishwa Guru by the Akhila Bharatiya Akhara Parishad. Srila Prabhupada is the first and only individual in history to receive this honor.

The grand ceremony was attended by HH Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj, President of the Akhara Parishad, Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Niranjani Akhara, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadhoot Arun Giri Ji Maharaj of Awahan Akhara, along with other Mahamandaleshwars, secretaries, senior saints, and thousands of devotees. The event was presided over by Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman and Mentor of the Global Hare Krishna Movement and President of ISKCON Bangalore, along with Shri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Vice Chairman and Co-Mentor of the Global Hare Krishna Movement and Senior Vice President of ISKCON Bangalore.

The deity of Srila Prabhupada was honored with an elaborate abhisheka, pushpa vrishti (showering of flowers), a grand arati, and sacred rituals accompanied by Vedic chants, celebrating his unparalleled contribution to Sanatana Dharma.

Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa expressed deep gratitude, stating, "It brings immense joy to the entire ISKCON community to witness Srila Prabhupada being honored as Vishwa Guru on the auspicious occasion of Sri Nityananda Trayodashi at the Maha Kumbh Mela. His contributions in spreading Sanatana Dharma, Bharatiya culture, and the teachings of Lord Krishna beyond India’s shores are unparalleled. This recognition is a tribute to his pioneering efforts that have transformed millions worldwide. We are deeply grateful to the Akhila Bharatiya Akhara Parishad and all the saints who made this event possible."

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj remarked, "Srila Prabhupada's work in taking the message of Krishna to every household is truly divine. The title of Vishwa Guru is elevated by being bestowed upon him. His efforts in spreading the Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and the Upanishads are a result of Lord Krishna’s grace. This honor should have been given much earlier, but it is destiny that today, at the sacred confluence of Triveni, we bestow this title. Today, not just ISKCON but Sanatanis across the world are celebrating."

HH Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj added, "Srila Prabhupada is one of Bharat’s greatest spiritual philosophers and religious teachers. Conferring the title of Vishwa Guru upon him is akin to offering a lamp to the sun. His unwavering commitment led him to America in 1965 without resources, yet today, ISKCON has over 450 temples worldwide. This honor is a source of pride not just for ISKCON but for all Sanatanis."

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadhoot Arun Giri Ji Maharaj further acknowledged Srila Prabhupada’s contributions, stating, "He spread Sanatana Dharma across the world during challenging times. His journey abroad to propagate Vedic wisdom was extraordinary. We are honored to confer the title of Vishwa Guru upon him under the guidance of Niranjani Peethadheeshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Maharaj and with the blessings of the Akhara Parishad President Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj."

The recognition of Srila Prabhupada as Vishwa Guru marks a historic moment in the global spread of Sanatana Dharma. It reaffirms his profound impact in reviving and preserving Vedic teachings, ensuring they continue to guide humanity towards spiritual enlightenment.

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