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A PERFECT GENTLEMAN



IN PRAISE OF SRILA PRABHUPADA – ESSAY 4: February 1, 2025


- Divya-simha Das


Who qualifies as a “perfect gentleman”? In general, we might define such a person as someone who is courteous, respectful, humble, and caring toward others. For a saintly person, these same qualities are supercharged with the intention of serving God and helping everyone progress on the path of devotion. When we look at the Founder-Acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, we see these traits personified in his life and teachings. This article will shed light on the gentlemanly qualities that made Srila Prabhupada loved by his followers and respected by those who met him—even for the first time.


Lord Caitanya, the inaugurator of the sankirtana movement (the congregational chanting of the holy names), taught that a devotee should be “humbler than a blade of grass and more tolerant than a tree.” Those who personally observed Srila Prabhupada saw this humble spirit reflected in his interactions. He always attributed his success to the mercy of his own guru and to the dedication of his followers, never claiming personal credit. Srila Prabhupada exemplified courtesy through his soft-spoken yet clear and forthright communication. Whether he was guiding a new devotee, engaging in friendly debate with a scholar, or addressing a public gathering, his words carried depth without harshness. He would patiently listen to people’s questions—whether philosophical, personal, or even confrontational—before offering a response that was both wise and compassionate.


Above all, Srila Prabhupada encouraged people from all walks of life—regardless of race, nationality, age, or gender—to delve into spiritual life. He reminded everyone that the soul is part and parcel of God, transcending bodily labels, and that “Krishna consciousness is not an artificial imposition on the mind; it is the natural position of the soul.” His life’s work in spreading bhakti (devotional service) to the Western world is a testament to his inclusive mindset.


In his translations and purports on the Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Srimad Bhagavatam, and Sri Caitanya-caritamrita, Srila Prabhupada explains that one’s character becomes refined by regularly chanting the Holy Names—Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare—and engaging in sincere devotional service. These practices, he taught, cleanse the heart of envy and selfish desire, naturally leading a person to behave in a gentlemanly manner.


In a world stained by division and distrust, Srila Prabhupada’s example reminds us that spiritual realization goes hand-in-hand with moral excellence. Whether one is a long-term practitioner on the path of bhakti or just learning about Srila Prabhupada for the first time, reflecting on his life and conduct can inspire a gentler, kinder approach to everyday challenges. Genuine spirituality is reflected in small acts of kindness, a listening ear, and an open heart.


Srila Prabhupada’s life is a story of both great missionary achievement and simple, heartfelt humanity. Through personal sacrifice, unwavering devotion, and the qualities of a true gentleman, he built bridges across cultural and social divides, inviting everyone to taste the nectar of bhakti. May his shining example remind us all that being a perfect gentleman or gentle-lady is inseparably linked to being a sincere servant of the Lord. By imbibing his teachings and following in his footsteps, we too can aspire to embody the virtues that help make the world a more compassionate, spiritually vibrant place.

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Prabhupada

FOUNDER-ACHARYA OF ISKCON

HIS DIVINE GRACE A.C. BHAKTIVEDANTA SWAMI PRABHUPADA

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