Enduring peace

Srila Prabhupada emphasises that mahabhagavatas - great devotees - are needed not only in temples but in every aspect of society, including business, politics, education, the arts and family life.

Traditionally, life is seen as a progression: one practices dharm, which leads to arth, economic prosperity, enabling the enjoyment of kaam, sense pleasure, and, ultimately, culminating in moksh, liberation. However, the Bhagavatam presents an alternative understanding.

The Bhagavatam warns that making sense gratification as the goal of life only leads to more anxiety and misery, since it has both a beginning and an end.


Instead, society should be organised on the foundation of spiritual knowledge - recognising that we are spirit souls and that Krishn consciousness or spiritual realisation is the highest goal. All human activities should align with this spiritual understanding. The Bhagavatam's philosophy is not meant only for monks living in temples or monasteries; it is meant to permeate and transform all aspects of human life, bringing harmony and spiritual progress.

Srila Prabhupada reminds us that despite modern affluence and civilisation, strife and conflict remain because society runs on materialistic principles. Solution lies in embracing Krishn consciousness or spirituality as the foundation of individual life and society.

International Day of Peace is on Sep 21