Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura was one of the most influential Vaishnava leaders of the 20th century, who reformed Gaudiya Vaishnavism, fought against philosophical deviations and founded the largest preaching organization since the time of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Contribution of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura
Scientific Authorization
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati scientifically, based on shastra, showed that Gauranga's â Lord Chaitanya's name is eternal and His worship is authoritative.
Fight against Mayavada
He declared a fierce war on Mayavada philosophy. Mayavadi impersonalists feared him so much that they would cross to the other side of the street when they saw him.
Reforms and Struggle
He refuted all kinds of perverted religions and philosophies. He fought against the caste system, he established that Vaishnavas are higher than brahmanas.
Literature
Wrote commentaries for many scriptures, published periodical publications.
Gaudiya Math
Founded Gaudiya Math â the largest preaching organization since the time of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, which united 64 Mathas â monasteries.
Preaching in the West
He started sending his disciples to preach in the West.
Legacy
Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura was not only a spiritual master, but also a bold reformer, who was not afraid to challenge established traditions and philosophical deviations. The Gaudiya Math organization he founded became the foundation for the later spread of the Krishna Consciousness movement all over the world.
One of his disciples, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, fulfilling the instructions of his spiritual master, arrived in the USA in 1965 and founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which became one of the most successful spiritual organizations in the world.
More detailed biography is being prepared
Biographical Details
- Date of Birth: February 6, 1874
- Date of Passing: 1936
- Real Name: Bimala Prasada
- Father: Bhaktivinoda Thakura
Self-Check Questions
- What was Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura's attitude towards Mayavada philosophy?
- What did his fight against the caste system mean?
- What was the Gaudiya Math organization and how many monasteries did it have?
- How did Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati contribute to the spread of Vaishnavism in the West?
- Who was A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and what was his connection with Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati?