Swami Prabhupada, also known as A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, was the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). He was born on September 1, 1896, in Calcutta, India.

Growing up, Swami Prabhupada was deeply spiritual and had a strong desire to understand the purpose of life. He was particularly drawn to the teachings of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a 16th-century Indian saint who emphasized the practice of bhakti yoga, or devotional service to Lord Krishna.

In 1922, at the age of 26, Swami Prabhupada met his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura, who encouraged him to spread the teachings of Lord Krishna in the Western world. However, it wasn't until 1965, at the age of 69, that Swami Prabhupada left India for the United States to fulfill his guru's wishes.

Upon arriving in New York City, Swami Prabhupada faced many challenges and struggles. He had very little money and no contacts in the Western world. But his determination and faith in Lord Krishna never wavered. He spent his days writing and translating ancient Vedic scriptures, and his evenings chanting the Hare Krishna mantra and sharing his teachings with a small group of followers.

Slowly but steadily, Swami Prabhupada's message of Krishna consciousness began to spread. His followers, known as "devotees," opened temples and centers around the world, and thousands of people from all walks of life were attracted to the movement.

Swami Prabhupada's teachings were based on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, and the Bhagavata Purana, which describes the pastimes of Lord Krishna. He emphasized the importance of living a simple and spiritual life, centered around devotional service to Krishna. He also stressed the importance of following a vegetarian diet and avoiding intoxication, gambling, and illicit sex.

Despite facing many challenges and opposition, Swami Prabhupada's dedication and determination led to the establishment of over 100 temples and centers around the world. Today, ISKCON is a global movement with millions of followers, and Swami Prabhupada's teachings continue to inspire people to lead a life of devotion and service.

In conclusion, Swami Prabhupada was born in Calcutta, India, and spent most of his life spreading the teachings of Lord Krishna in the Western world. His legacy continues to live on through ISKCON, and his teachings continue to guide and inspire people to lead a spiritually fulfilling life.