Sri Nandanandana Dasa with his book “Advancements of Ancient India’s Vedic Culture; a selection of just some of his many published volumes. 

On January 25th, the Indian Government’s Ministry of Home Affairs announced the 2025 recipients of the annual Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by India’s President. ISKCON leader and prolific author Sri Nandanandana Dasa (Stephen Knapp) was one of the notable recipients in the Padma Shri category for his outstanding and distinguished service in the field of Literature and Education.

A disciple of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Sri Nandanandana has made it his life’s mission to share the wisdom of Krishna consciousness and Vedic culture around the world. This honor, the fourth-highest granted to civilians, recognizes the significant contribution he has made in his decades-long service. You can read more about his global impact in a recent devotee profile ISKCON News published aquí.

Sri Nandanandana only learned of the award the day before the announcement in a late-night call from the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. “I am very grateful for this level of recognition from the Indian government,” he said, “I have been working at trying to please Srila Prabhupada by working to spread Krishna Consciousness and the glory of Indian and Vedic culture for over four decades.”

“I feel that it is a reflection on Srila Prabhupada and the work he has done since, without him, I would not be where I am today. And the effect he has had on India is still growing tremendously. So, I’m very grateful to him and to all who have helped me along the way…It is all Krishna’s mercy; you just have to show him that you are sincere and serious, and He will reciprocate.”

Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards are announced on the Eve of Republic Day. The President of India will confer the honors at a series of ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan around March/April of this year. Speaking of the awards, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an X post, “Congratulations to all the Padma awardees! India is proud to honour and celebrate their extraordinary achievements. Their dedication and perseverance are truly motivating. Each awardee is synonymous with hardwork, passion and innovation, which has positively impacted countless lives. They teach us the value of striving for excellence and serving society selflessly.”

Reflecting on the award, Sri Nandanandana saw it as an encouragement for everyone in our Society, “If I can do it, anyone can do it. I’m no one special. The only qualification I had was that I just never gave up. I kept on moving forward in spite of whatever challenges came along. That is something that is required in Krishna consciousness; you have to show how serious and sincere you are in whatever service you are doing. And if you are serious and sincere, Krishna and Srila Prabhupada will help guide you until you are successful. Have faith and keep pushing on. Hare Krishna.”

For those inspired to explore his books, articles, and even free e-books, please visit his websites aquí y aquí. Both websites host a range of content, including his photographs, articles, and details about his various projects. Sri Nandanandana can be contacted via correo electrónico.