Prime Minister Modi releases a special coin to commemorate the life and teachings of Srila Prabhupada

Devotees and temples from 60 countries participate

September 1, 2021, New Delhi: The Honorable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the 125th Birth Anniversary of ISKCON’s Founder Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and released a Rs 125 Commemorative Coin in his honor via video conferencing.  

Speaking in the presence of 600 ISKCON temples and devotees from more than 60 countries, the Prime Minister praised Srila Prabhupada’s tireless effort in sharing the teachings of Lord Krishna, Bhagavad Gita and the Indian culture with the world.

“How we feel a sense of belonging and pride when we are greeted with ‘Hare Krishna’ in foreign countries. Imagine how we will feel if we find the same familiarity for ‘made-in-India’ products outside,” he said.

The Prime Minister recollected the life of Srila Prabhupada who after overcoming many challenges established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness in 1966 and opened 108 temples worldwide, which today go over 800 of such centers. In India, he established his head office in Mumbai and lay the foundation for the 300 centers across the country.

“Today there are hundreds of ISKCON temples in different countries around the world, which are spreading the Indian culture,” the Prime Minister said. “ISKCON has told the world that for India, faith means zeal, enthusiasm, to be in high spirits and faith in humanity.”

After releasing the Rs 125 Commemorative Coin minted by the Alipore Mint, the Prime Minister thanked ISKCON members for their tireless efforts in not just spreading the culture of India but also their social initiatives such as running the world’s largest vegetarian food relief program, especially during the Covid pandemic wherein the volunteers served over 25 crore meals across the country.

“I remember when there was an earthquake in Kutch in 2001, how ISKCON had stepped forward to serve the people,” he said. “Whenever the country experienced any calamity, whether it is the tragedy of Uttarakhand or the devastation of cyclones in Odisha and Bengal, ISKCON has worked as a support for the society.”

The Honorable Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri G. Kishan Reddy and HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaja, Chairman of the ISKCON Bureau also addressed the event which marks a year-long celebration to remember and cherish the life and legacy of India’s spiritual ambassador – Srila Prabhupada. 

Several different events and programs have been planned across the world to commemorate this historic year. Programs include international cultural festivals, conferences, school contests for children and youths, along with outdoor activities to take the message of peace and goodwill that Srila Prabhupada taught us all.

For media queries, please contact:
Malini Mattler
ISKCON Communications, North America
Mobile: +1 717-869-2618

Video:

Ordering Coins:

After the successful international launch by Prime Minister Modi, Srila Prabhupada Limited Edition Coins (minimum 10 coins per order) are available here as part of a second and possibly final run. The deadline to submit payment is September 10th. Please place your order and make your payment as soon as possible. Details are on the order form. https://tinyurl.com/SP125thCoins