His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON, also known as Srila Prabhupada, had a long-lasting and deep impact on the lives of millions of people with his tireless efforts to spread the loving and profound message of Lord Sri Krishna all over the world. Srila Prabhupada wrote over 70 books and built 108 temples in a brief span of 10-12 years at the advanced age of 70. Even in his last days, he was as devoted as ever to serving Krishna by translating Srimad Bhagavatam. He left this mortal world on 14 Nov 1977 gloriously amidst the chanting of the holy names of Lord Sri Krishna in the sacred land of Vrindavan. His life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals on their spiritual journeys.
The appearance and disappearance of the pure devotees of Lord Krishna are not similar to the passing away of ordinary souls. Pure devotees or acharyas appear in this world due to the will of the Supreme Lord to enlighten and save the conditioned souls suffering in the repeated cycle of birth and death and awaken their eternal relationship with Lord Krishna.
Srila Prabhupada may not be physically present, but he is present in the form of his Deities in the temple and the form of vani, available in his books, lectures, conversations, letters, and memories shared by disciples. Hence, the appearance and disappearance of the acharyas are both equally celebrated.
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, one of the acharyas in the line of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and early pioneers of spreading Krishna’s message to the West, writes:
He reasons ill who says that Vaishnavas die,
When thou art living still in sound!
The Vaishnavas die to live,
and living try To spread the holy name around.
In a press conference on July 16, 1975, Srila Prabhupada himself stated:
“I will never die. I shall live forever in my books, and you will utilize.”
By reading Srila Prabhupada’s books, listening to his lectures, and faithfully adhering to his guidance, we can maintain a strong connection with him and, in doing so; we can please him by following his instructions.
ISKCON Bangalore will celebrate the disappearance day of Srila Prabhupada on 5 Nov 2024, at 11:30 AM at ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill, Vasanthapura and 6:30 PM at ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Rajajinagar.
Participate in the festivities, learn more about him, and receive his blessings. Click here to Watch Live celebrations.
Sponsor online sevas and be a part of this celebration of Srila Prabhupada’s glories. 
External Links: Srila Prabhupada | Sing Dance and Pray