The Vaishnava community recently witnessed the transcendental departure of His Grace Paradhyeya Prabhu (ACBSP), who left his body yesterday at 9:20 PM in Sacramento, California. A beloved and dedicated disciple of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, His Grace Paradhyeya Prabhu’s life was a profound embodiment of unwavering devotion, humility, and selfless service.
A Life Dedicated to Srila Prabhupada’s Mission
His Grace Paradhyeya Prabhu was widely known as a humble and sincere devotee, exemplifying the essence of Vaishnava principles. Alongside his devoted wife, Her Grace Chaitanya Mataji, he made monumental contributions to Srila Prabhupada’s mission, playing an instrumental role in establishing 22 temples and 9 centers across diverse regions. Their tireless efforts spanned cities in India (including Guwahati, Madras, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Surat, and Patna) and international locations such as Bangkok, various parts of Africa, and numerous cities in the USA (including Long Island NY, Atlanta, New Talavan, Sacramento, and San Jose, California). This extensive service directly fulfilled Srila Prabhupada’s vision for global Krishna consciousness, transforming perceptions of ISKCON centers into welcoming “Hare Krishna temples” for all.
A Transcendental Departure
The final days of His Grace Paradhyeya Prabhu offered a profound demonstration of Vaishnava principles. For many years, he was bedridden, his verbal communication minimal, limited to “only the names, nothing else.” This profound internalization indicated a deep detachment from worldly affairs and an exclusive focus on the divine.
A striking detail of his departure was his decision to leave his body after seven days of not eating or drinking, mirroring the example of King Pariksit, who utilized a similar period for spiritual immersion. Even when speech was limited, his right hand continuously moved in a chanting position, revealing an unbroken internal connection with the Holy Name that transcended physical limitations. On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, he chanted “Ram, Ram,” a practice common for him despite his physical condition and apparent unawareness.
He “left his body surrounded by kirtan and chanting devotees,” a communal spiritual energy that facilitates a peaceful, Krishna-focused departure. His ability to respond only with “Hare Krishna or Ram” showcased an ultimate absorption in the Holy Name, aligning with the Bhagavad-gita’s emphasis on fixed consciousness at the time of death.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/a-glorious-departure-a-tribute-to-his-grace-paradhyeya-prabhu-acbsp/
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