(LtoR) Masha, Sita Rani Dasi, Yulia, Krsna Abhishek Das, Ishani Devi Dasi, Keith Eustace, Ivan Demiashkin (with mridanga), Manu Das, and Praghosh Das.

ISKCON Dublin recently concluded its participation in the 2024 Srila Prabhupada Book Distribution Marathon, surpassing expectations with a total of 12,781 books distributed across Ireland. The initiative, which took place throughout December, saw devotees tirelessly engaging in the sacred mission of sharing spiritual knowledge through the distribution of Bhagavad-gitas and other Vedic literature.

The campaign initially set a target of distributing 1,500 Bhagavad-gitas in Dublin. However, with immense dedication and collective effort, devotees exceeded this goal by distributing 1,534 copies along with 1,508 additional small books, making a remarkable total of 3,042 books from Dublin alone. Across Ireland, the grand total of distributed books reached an impressive 12,781, surpassing the set objective of 11,000.

A United Effort in Service of Srila Prabhupada
The success of the marathon was made possible through the unwavering commitment of devotees who engaged in book distribution, Harinam, and various support services. Volunteers took to the streets, singing the holy names, playing mridangas and kartals, and joyfully sharing Srila Prabhupada’s teachings with passersby under the leadership of Manu Das (Temple President) and Yash Gulve (Book Distribution Manager). Others contributed by cooking and distributing prasadam cookies, sponsoring books, and assisting with logistics.

Prominent book distributors included Manu Das, Yash Gulve, Vimala Devi Dasi, Sugati Achyut Das, Krsna Abhishek Das, Shyamsundar Das,  Anuradha Priti Dasi, and many more. Each of these individuals played a crucial role in ensuring that people from all walks of life had access to transcendental literature, which has the power to transform lives.

Challenges and Triumphs on the Streets of Dublin
Book distribution often comes with challenges, including rejections and moments of discouragement. However, devotees embraced these obstacles as opportunities for spiritual growth, cultivating humility and perseverance. As Yash Gulve noted, “Approaching strangers on the street can be daunting, but book distribution teaches us the importance of surrendering to Krishna. We are simply instruments in His service.”

Every Saturday, the ISKCON Dublin team took to O’Connell Street for book distribution and Harinam from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, spreading the joy of Krishna consciousness to locals and visitors alike. This practice will continue into 2025, alongside new initiatives such as door-to-door distribution, Namahatta programs, and outreach at various events and festivals.

Looking Ahead: The Vision for 2025
Inspired by the resounding success of this year’s marathon, ISKCON Dublin is already planning its 2025 book distribution efforts. The community remains committed to increasing its outreach and sharing the wisdom of the Bhagavad-gita with as many souls as possible. Devotees are encouraged to bring forth innovative ideas to expand the reach of this sacred mission.

As Srila Prabhupada once said, “This, our book distribution, is the most important task in our society.” The ISKCON Dublin community remains steadfast in upholding this mission, ensuring that the transcendental wisdom of Krishna consciousness continues to illuminate hearts across Ireland.

Those interested in participating in future book distribution events or supporting ISKCON Dublin’s outreach initiatives can stay updated through visiting us on our website, or following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.

OUR FRONTLINE BOOK DISTRIBUTORS AND THEIR BOOK DISTRIBUTION SCORE FOR DECEMBER MONTH
Manu Das (Temple President) 55
Yash Gulve  312
Sugati Achyut Das 255
Vimala Dasi 132
Krsna Abhishek Das 81
Shyamsundar Das 50
Aman Thakur 47
Ghiridhar Iyer 41
Tanuj Chaniyari 25
Vanya  24
Anuradha Preeti Dasi 20
Aishani  20
Pyanshi  17
Shraddha Gulve 16
Manav  11
Shubhangi  10
Keith Eusace 9
Laura Ortu 7
Chetanaya Kandhari 5