By the GBC EC
His Holiness Krishna Das Swami's life reads like a story from the scriptures, much like his glorious departure from this world. Born in a pious family, His Holiness was trained by his grandfather in devotional practices from his very childhood. Armed with a lifetime of encouragement in serving his dear Lord and the philosophical training to understand the essence of human life, Maharaja took initiation in the Brahma Sampradaya while simultaneously continuing with his academic studies. Years later, as a householder in London, Krishna Das Swami's life took a dramatic turn when he first met his dear spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Krishna Das Swami immediately surrendered himself to the lotus feet of His Divine Grace. What followed was a lifetime of extraordinary service all over the world, touching the hearts of many fortunate souls who dedicated themselves to the path of bhakti. Maharaja constantly traveled and preached Krishna Consciousness all over the world including India (or Bharat, as Maharaja would always properly refer to the land of his birth), England, Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Spain, Portugal, America, South America, the West Indies, and Europe. Maharaja met and discussed Krishna consciousness and vegetarianism with world leaders including Dr. Nelson Mandela. He also met with leaders of the Muslim community, sharing with them the teachings of Bhagavad-gita and developing affectionate interfaith relationships.