Srila Prabhupada's Departure for the West | ISKCON Vrindavan: Date: August 10, 2025
Event: Commemoration of His Divine Grace A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada boarding the Jaladuta
Route: Vrindavan to New York
A Historic Day for the World
August 10 marks the day when Srila Prabhupada boarded the cargo ship Jaladuta in 1965, carrying with him not money or followers, but the pure teachings of Lord Krishna. At the age of 69, with just 40 rupees and a trunk of books, he began a voyage that would ignite a global spiritual movement.
I simply try to repeat the words of my Guru Maharaja. That is my only qualification.
- Srila Prabhupada
A Journey of Devotion
This journey was not for personal gain. It was a mission of mercy, carrying the instruction of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura to preach Krishna consciousness in the English-speaking world. Srila Prabhupada faced heart attacks, rough seas, and total uncertainty, yet he pressed forward with complete faith.
Jaladuta - The Spiritual Journey Begins
On the Jaladuta, Srila Prabhupada wrote his famous poem Markine Bhagavata Dharma, praying sincerely to the Lord:
O Lord, I am just like a puppet in Your hands. So if You have brought me here to dance, then make me dance, make me dance…
Krishna answered. From that day forward, Krishna danced through Srila Prabhupada, awakening bhakti across the globe.
How Devotees Observe This Day
At ISKCON Vrindavan and temples worldwide, August 10 is observed with:
Reading Srila Prabhupada's Jaladuta Diary and poems
Special kirtans and bhajans in glorification
Screenings or dramas of his voyage
Offerings of gratitude and sankirtan
Book distribution and prasadam seva in his honor
The Message for Us
Srila Prabhupada's journey teaches that:
One soul fully surrendered to Guru and Krishna can transform the world
Bhakti yoga is the highest welfare work
Simplicity, service, and faith surpass all obstacles
Offer Your Gratitude
On this sacred day, you can honor Srila Prabhupada’s sacrifice through:
Sponsoring book distribution
Prasadam seva or anna daan
Gau seva (cow protection)
Supporting temple preaching and outreach
