February 29, 2024, marked the 150th anniversary of His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja’s appearance. This was an important celebration for ISKCON, recognizing his pre-eminent position as the Guru of our Founder-Acarya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

We cannot imagine our eternal good fortune for having come in touch with the movement that was created by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur over one century ago. We are eternally indebted to Him for having sent to us our most merciful Srila Prabhupada and His followers, which otherwise would have never been the case.

Very befittingly, all across the globe, there were jubilant celebrations. ISKCON Mauritius also seized the opportunity to tap into the flow of divine mercy that everyone was eagerly trying to obtain. Our various temples here organized different programs that were aimed at creating an increased awareness of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur among the devotee community and the community at large. 

A documentary on the Life and Teachings of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur was broadcast on national television, an online quiz competition was hosted to sharpen children’s intelligence by learning about the extraordinary life of Srila Prabhupada’s spiritual master, and an art and essay writing competition was held, which prompted excited involvement from devotees of all ages. All the initiatives received enthusiastic responses and were managed very professionally on all levels by the various organizing committees.

At Sri Sri Krishna Balarama Mandir, Bon Accueil, the Art and Essay Writing competition yielded a total of 46 entrants in four different categories. The winners for the Art category: 5-10 yrs was Advaita Acharya Das (6 yrs), 11-16 yrs was Devaki Seeputty (14 yrs). The winners for the Essay writing category: for children was Nitai Koylas Das and for adults was Pooja Rampare (from Piton). All entrants received a special Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur-themed participation certificate. The top three winners in all categories also received beautifully engraved Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur-themed shields and gifts.

Through these activities and initiatives, we have certainly increased our knowledge and sharpened our intelligence. We recognize and appreciate much more the vast contributions made by the Chosen One, our Lion Guru, the dearest son of Srila Bhaktivinod Thakur – His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur said, “Many agents and messengers come to this world, but that most powerful messenger, sent by God to suit the adaptability of each recipient – the name of that sole agency is ‘guru.’ Revelation is made possible through that expert. He can free us of mental speculation and bring about within us a revolution of natural spiritual propensity.” 

His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur Prabhupada was indeed a powerful messenger sent by God. He, in turn, sent another powerful messenger of God, our beloved Srila AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, to guide and inspire us all. Their teachings and contributions continue to shape the ISKCON community and have a profound impact on the world.