Universally Appreciated Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam

The Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam possesses a unique quality that attracts the hearts and intellects of all classes of men. It is not a mythological collection but a scientific exposition of the Absolute Truth that is appreciated by rigorous scholars, the general public, and advanced transcendentalists alike. This article explores the various dimensions of appreciation the Bhāgavatam receives—from academic endorsements to the practical success of book distribution and the divine sanction of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu.

Academic and Worldwide Appreciation

The Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is not limited to a specific community; it is a global asset. Śrīla Prabhupāda emphasizes that the text is authorized and appreciated by learned professors in universities across the world. This wide acceptance indicates that the time is ripe for the message of the Bhāgavatam to be broadcast extensively, and it is the duty of those familiar with Vedic culture to spread this knowledge.

• Why not begin teaching the science of God as described in the Vedic literatures, like the Srimad-Bhagavatam, which is authorized and appreciated by all learned professors in the universities throughout the whole world.
• We are publishing so many books on the basis of BG and Srimad-Bhagavatam, and people are appreciating very much all over the world. So it is the duty of every Indian to make his life perfect by understanding Bhagavad-gita at least, and spread the message.
• Please accept my greetings and thanks for your appreciative review of Srimad-Bhagavatam. I am trying my best to publish the entire Srimad-Bhagavatam, which will be about 60 volumes. Thank you very much for your encouragement.

Appreciation of Substance over Sentiment

The appreciation for the Bhāgavatam comes from its philosophical depth, not superficial sentiment. Śrīla Prabhupāda notes that when the substance of the text is explained—even just a few lines—it is deeply appreciated by the audience. This intrinsic potency was evident even in the early days of the mission, where the sale of the Bhāgavatam provided the necessary funds, proving that the book carries its own value.

• We explain two, three lines from Bhagavatam - how much people appreciated. So we have to preach like that, the substance. Not the sentiment. But if we cannot, the sankirtana is sufficient.
• I published second part (of Srimad-Bhagavatam) also. There was sale. Then there was no necessity of money. I was getting money by selling Srimad-Bhagavatam. Everyone appreciated.

Divine and Cultural Resonance

The Bhāgavatam is so vast that it inspires appreciation in many forms. Culturally, its verses can be the basis for wonderful classical art that the whole world would admire. Theologically, even the Supreme Lord, Caitanya Mahāprabhu, appreciated its verses during His discussions with Rāmānanda Rāya, using them to establish the highest conclusions of devotion.

• Your suggestion is very good - if the verses from Srimad-Bhagavatam and Bhagavad-gita are presented in classical art it will be something wonderful - the whole world will appreciate.
• Lord Caitanya appreciated this statement (from SB 10.12.11) very much, yet He said, You can go even further. Being so requested, Ramananda Raya then stated that the paternal relationship with Krsna is a still higher transcendental position.

Conclusion

The universal appreciation of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam serves as proof of its transcendental nature. Whether scrutinized by academics, bought by the pious, or analyzed by the Lord Himself, the text stands as the spotless authority. Its ability to satisfy the intellect and the heart simultaneously confirms that it is the literary incarnation of God, capable of delivering the highest perfection to anyone who approaches it.

Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani

• Explore the synthesized essence of this category in this Vanipedia article: Appreciating the Srimad-Bhagavatam.