INTRODUCTION

This pamphlet is a collection of recollections and reflections about His Divine Grace Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada from one of his earliest siksa followers and friends, Srila Bhaktivedanta Narayana Maharaja. These descriptive accounts of his association with Srila Prabhupada span a long period of time, since they first met in 1947.

Srila Narayana Maharaja was happy to share his fond memories of this long-standing and affectionate relationship. Excerpts from a variety of Maharaja's informal interviews and statements have been used. (The lotus flower markers distinguish material from different sources.) We also have lightly edited his often ambiguous and misunderstood English. If he had presented these memories and appreciations in Hindi, his native tongue, the details and heartfelt explanations would be far more eloquent, clear, and detailed. However, time and circumstances have not yet permitted this.

Srila Prabhupada is a "nitya-siddha" devotee. Therefore it should be noted that the descriptions Srila Prabhupada and Srila Narayana Maharaja give of these "nara-lila" (human-like pastimes) have nothing to do with this material environment. They are only meant to help instruct others how to advance in Krsna Consciousness.

Our sincere hope is that the worldwide audience of devotees will receive enlivenment by hearing inspirational memories about our Mahabhagavata guru from other of his admirers. Where this humble effort is not of the highest quality, or if it fails in any way to properly represent Srila Prabhupada or Srila Narayana Maharaja, we beg for the forgiveness of the merciful Vaisnavas. We pray that our most beloved Srila Prabhupada will be pleased with our greed to more deeply discover and glorify his transcendental personality, pastimes, and sankirtana mission.