Proof of the Pudding - Śrīla Prabhupāda's Practical Experience

Philosophy without practice is merely mental speculation. Śrīla Prabhupāda distinguished himself from arm-chair philosophers by constantly referring to his "practical experience." In this collection of quotes, the Ācārya puts the Vedic wisdom to the test of real life, proving that Kṛṣṇa Consciousness works in the laboratory of the material world.

"I Have Seen It"

Śrīla Prabhupāda did not just believe in Kṛṣṇa's protection; he experienced it. He often recounted his early days in America to reassure his disciples that Kṛṣṇa maintains His devotee.

• Actually, there is no anxiety. We have experienced this. I was alone for many years, but not a single day I was starving. No. There was food.
• I have got now practical experience that you depend on Krsna, there will be no scarcity. Whatever you want, it will be fulfilled.

He also used his experience to debunk the fear of preaching alone.

• Preaching is independent. If you have got desire, you can preach in any circumstances and Krsna will help you. I have practically experienced. I went to your country without any help... Alone.

The Universal Cure

The greatest experiment was transplanting Vedic culture to the West. Śrīla Prabhupāda cites the transformation of his disciples as scientific proof that the process is potent.

• Anyone who comes in contact with the Society automatically becomes a devotee. We have actual experience that many karmis... find a very pleasing and peaceful atmosphere.
• Chanting, dancing, and taking prasadam are universal formula, and we have experienced everywhere in the world.

A Tale of Two Worlds

Śrīla Prabhupāda often used his personal timeline to contrast the peaceful India of his childhood with the agitated modern world. He spoke as an eyewitness to a lost culture.

• I am Calcutta born. What Calcutta was in our childhood days and what is now, I know everything... I can speak from my personal experience.
• In India we have got experience how in the morning the cowboy takes some food from the mother and with the cows he goes to the field... This cowboy is sometimes singing.

Conclusion

The conclusion of the Ācārya is that Kṛṣṇa Consciousness is the solution to all problems—not because it says so in a book, but because he has seen it work.

• Practically I have experienced that this Krishna Consciousness Movement or to present the philosophy of the Bhagavad-gita as it is can solve all problems of the world.

Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani

Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category My Experience (Prabhupada). We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.