What is the
Bhaktivedanta Vedic Library?

In the 1970’s His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada placed collections of his books in universities and libraries across the United States. At that time the idea of having an entire library dedicated solely to his works was not practical. Today, thanks to the internet, that idea has become a reality. We believe His Divine Grace would be exceptionally pleased to find all of his books in audio form available in one place. Through the Library students, families, those with special needs, and entire congregations can now access not only the audio books of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada but also a complete variety of videos meant to assist one in easily incorporating the essential teachings of the process of Bhakti Yoga into their daily life. We at the Bhaktivedanta Vedic Library invite you to experience this ancient wisdom in the comfort of your own home, office, or even while traveling, and all completely free of charge.

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About the Author

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is a authorized representative in disciplic succession from the ancient Gaudiya Vaisnava spiritual tradition.

The path of spiritual realization is undoubtedly difficult. Bhagavad Gita therefore advises us to approach a bonafide spiritual master in the line of disciplic succession from the Lord Himself. No one can be a bona fide spiritual master without following this principle of parampara or disciplic succession. The Lord is the original spiritual master, and a person in the disciplic succession can convey the message of the Lord as it is to his disciple. No one can be spiritually realized by manufacturing his own process, as is the fashion of the foolish pretenders. The Srimad Bhagavatam (6.3.19) says, dharmam tu sakshad bhagavat-pranitam: the path of religion is directly enunciated by the Lord.

Therefore, mental speculation or dry arguments cannot help lead one to the right path. Nor by independent study of books of knowledge can one progress in spiritual life. One has to approach a bonafide spiritual master to receive the knowledge. When (the guru) sees the desire of the disciple, he automatically blesses the disciple with genuine spiritual understanding. A bonafide spiritual master is by nature very kind toward the disciple. Therefore when the student is submissive and is always ready to render service, the reciprocation of knowledge and inquiries becomes perfect. (BG 4:34 Purport)

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is the Founder-Acarya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

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How the Project Began

Enlivened by an idea of devotional inspiration, a small group following the bhakti yoga path began what is now the Bhaktivedanta Vedic Library.

In February of 2014, three devotees of the Krishna Consciousness tradition committed themselves to producing and distributing audio readings of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s complete collection of Vedic teachings.

Damodar would provide the gift of his steady voice to guide the listener through each page.  Dwijamani, as sound engineer, would develop and maintain the vital technical contribution required for such a project. Tulsi das, would provide all the organizational and financial needs along the way.

In November of 2015, as the project developed and new stages began, more members of the community joined the effort.  Ratimanjari, Madri, Lokadristi, Harinama and Radhapriya engaged their skills in sound editing and proof reading.

Additional members joined the group in 2017, developing audio-visual presentations and other promotional needs. Advaita Acharya,  Madhurya Lila and Mahalaxmi have all made significant contributions toward the official launch of the project in late 2017.

This project is an ongoing effort and continues to provide all those involved with new inspiration and understanding every day.