Acknowledgements

“My path is very difficult. I am blind, and my feet are slipping again and again. Therefore, may the saints help me by granting me the stick of their mercy as my support.” (Krishnadasa Kaviraja Goswami)

My spiritual master, Kadamba Kanana Swami, is the proofreader of my life. He is the sharp and saintly soul who expertly guides me at every step, revealing a vision of the future that extends way beyond my own limited conceptions. His absorption in Srimad-Bhagavatam ignited something within me, and because he told me to write, I’m trying my best.

There are some individuals who have more faith in you than yourself. For me, Srutidharma Das is one of those people; an endless fountain of encouragement and empowerment. He lives for others, and his undiminishing level of selflessness brings the teachings of these ancient scriptures to life. He has always lovingly pushed me, and for that I’ll always remain indebted.

I am a self-confessed plagiarist. I learnt so many things about Srimad-Bhagavatam from the dedicated devotees at Bhaktivedanta Manor. Further afield in the ISKCON world, we are nourished by the insights of individuals who have deeply studied and grasped the Bhagavatam’s concepts. Many of these devotees and their works are referenced in the bibliography. Thank you to you all.

A group of kind-hearted devotees looked over the manuscript at its various stages, offering invaluable feedback, input and advice – Sanatana, Chris, Hari Vallabhi, Nitai, Anamika, Dimple, Manju, Hariprasad, Govinda and Govardhana. The time and energy you lent me is deeply appreciated. And how can I forget Yogi – my good friend, a technical whizz kid who can magically transform a manuscript into a printed book. You are the best.

After arriving in New York, Srila Prabhupada began publishing “Back to Godhead” magazine and insisted that every issue contain articles written by his young students. He was concerned that ancient truths be carried into the modern context in suitable language and with reference to the contemporary needs, interests and concerns of the people. His predecessor, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, another prolific writer, explained how many people simply study books, collect information and then store those facts, like a magistrate imprisons a criminal in jail. He labelled it “fruitless retention.” Rather, he said, one should take such knowledge, sincerely apply it in one’s life, and then creatively share it according to personal experience and taste. ‘Book Bhagavata’ is a humble attempt to fulfil their wishes, and in some insignificant way encourage people to excavate the Srimad-Bhagavatam for their own transcendental gems. My attempt is simply to encourage the reader to approach the original source of knowledge: the profound narrations of the sages, translated and commented on by Srila Prabhupada.

‘Book Bhagavata’ has also been produced in a spirit of self-improvement, with the sincere desire to deepen my connection with this priceless treasure-house of knowledge. It’s a grave responsibility to represent the most profound teachings in the universe; a task which calls for genuine purity and freedom from worldly ambition. Please forgive any mistakes I have made, which are likely due to my limited knowledge and lack of spiritual depth.

S.B. Keshava Swami