Preface

 

It may pertinently be asked, "How is it that this Bhakti Vikasa Swami, a foreigner, has the audacity to comment about India and Indians? Not only does he comment, but he does so very strongly, and gives instructions also!"In reply, I submit that I have been following traditional Indian culture for over eighteen years (more than half my life). I have travelled throughout most of India, mixed with all kinds of people at all levels of society, and learned two Indian languages.Having visited many other countries also, and observed the people of different lands, I am convinced that the original Indian culture is the best the world has ever known. Furthermore, India's spiritual message is vitally needed in today's troubled world.It is thus regrettable that in this hour of need, when Indians should be distributing their cultural wealth, they are instead giving it up themselves. If my words seem harsh, it is not out of antagonism, but from a hope that India will revive her lost glory and stand as a leader among nations.As a sannyasT, it is my duty to instruct. Moreover, the topics in this book are either based on or are direct quotes from the teachings of His Divine Grace_ A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acarya of ISKCON. Admittedly, I am a very insignificant soul, but my spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, is a great world acarya. Whatever he says should be taken seriously.I therefore request the readers not to be disturbed by the strong statements, but to try to perceive the truth in them. I am confident that, if received properly, this book can do much good for India. I pray to Lord Sri Krsna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, that He bless me, and the readers of this book, and the land of India, and all the people of the universe. If He so desires, this book can help contribute to the ongoing re-awakening of the world's oldest and greatest civilization.Orh Tat Sat Bhakti Vikasa Swami Baroda, 6th October, 1993