Celebrating 60 Years of Spiritual Legacy
September 12–14, 2025 | ISKCON Boston
In 1965, a humble, determined spiritual teacher stepped aboard a cargo ship in Mumbai, India, bound for an unknown future. Carrying little more than a suitcase, a few books, and a heart full of compassion, His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada embarked on a journey that would change the course of spiritual life in the West.
On September 17, 1965, at 5:30 a.m., Srila Prabhupada arrived in Boston Harbor aboard the Jaladuta. Now, sixty years later, ISKCON Boston invites the global community to gather in honor of this historic moment—a turning point that laid the foundation for the worldwide Hare Krishna movement.
A Legacy that Transformed the World
Srila Prabhupada was 69 years old when he first set foot on American soil. Despite facing language barriers, financial hardship, and a complete cultural unknown, he came with a singular mission: to share the teachings of Krishna consciousness and the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad-gita.
“I do not know why You have brought me here. Now You can do whatever You like with me. But I guess You have some business here, otherwise why would You bring me to this terrible place?”
— Srila Prabhupada, Jaladuta Diary
This heartfelt prayer, written aboard the Jaladuta, reflects both his humility and unwavering faith in Krishna’s plan. Over the next twelve years, he would establish ISKCON, translate and publish over 80 volumes of sacred texts, and inspire millions worldwide.
60th Anniversary Festival — Join Us in Boston!
To commemorate Srila Prabhupada’s arrival, ISKCON Boston will host a vibrant three-day festival from September 12–14, 2025. This year’s celebration holds special significance as we mark the 60th anniversary of this momentous occasion.
Tentative Schedule:
Friday, September 12 (5 PM – 10 PM)
Kirtan Night: An evening of ecstatic chanting and spiritual unity with devotees from around the world.
Saturday, September 13 (11 AM – 2 PM)
Srila Prabhupada Parade: Join a colorful and uplifting procession through Boston celebrating his arrival.
Saturday, September 13 (5 PM – 10 PM)
Offerings at MIT: Reflections, bhajans, and personal tributes in honor of Srila Prabhupada at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Sunday, September 14 (11 AM – 4 PM)
Boat Festival: A joyful public event featuring a ceremonial boat ride in celebration of Srila Prabhupada’s historic journey.
📍 Location:
ISKCON Boston
72 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02116, United States
Be Part of the Legacy
Whether you are a long-time devotee, a spiritual seeker, or someone simply interested in the story of a remarkable individual who bridged cultures with devotion and wisdom, we warmly welcome you to participate in this special event.
Let us come together to honor Srila Prabhupada’s sacrifice, vision, and devotion to the order of his Spritual Master. Through kirtan, remembrance, and service, we celebrate not just a historical arrival—but the birth of a spiritual movement that continues to transform lives worldwide.
“Srila Prabhupada did not just bring a religion to the West. He brought a culture, a worldview, a way of life rooted in divine love.”
— Prabhupada-lilamrita by Satsvarupa dasa Goswami