Earlier this autumn, Stockholm University and the Department of Ethnology, History of Religions and Gender Studies hosted a workshop focusing on the historical and philosophical context of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami. Eight scholars from Sweden, Finland, India, and the USA gathered to illuminate A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami’s enduring legacy and thought. The workshop was organized by Ferdinando Sardella, Associate Professor of History of Religions at Stockholm University, and funded by Riksbanken. The day's activities were divided into two parts: a seminar for academics and a workshop open to the public through registration.

Exploration of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami's history

Bhaktivedanta Swami

A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami, also known as Srila Prabhupada, was a teacher within Gaudiya Vaishnavism and the founder-acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Born in 1896 in Kolkata, India, Swami played a crucial role in introducing Vaishnava philosophy and culture to a global audience during the 20th century.

The scholars at the workshop traced Swami's journey from his early life in India to his significant work in the USA, in Sweden in 1973, and globally, emphasizing his commitment to spreading the teachings of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. This branch of the Vaishnava tradition strongly influenced Swami’s teachings, with roots going back to the classical Sanskrit text Bhagavata Purana and the Gaudiya Vaishnavism founder, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (16th century).

Deep dive into Vaishnava philosophy

The workshop participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Vaishnava philosophy that A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami followed. Based on the ancient texts of the Bhagavata Purana and inspired by the life and teachings of Chaitanya, Vaishnavism revolves around worship and devotion to Lord Krishna.

The scholars presented a detailed analysis of the Bhagavata Purana, illuminating its essence and importance in understanding Vaishnava philosophy. They also explored the influence of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu - a saint from the 16th century and the primary advocate for Gaudiya Vaishnavism - on A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami's worldview and teachings. The philosophy, encompassing Samkhya, was examined in the context of history and globalization. This process drew from a lecture by Bhaktivedanta Swami, delivered at the same location as the public section, 50 years earlier in 1973.

A collaborative space for learning and discussion

The high-level academic seminar provided a platform where scholars could exchange insights and research findings related to A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami's life and philosophy. The discussions facilitated a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural contexts that shaped Swami’s contributions to spirituality and philosophy. During the seminar, discussants also participated, posing interesting and thought-provoking questions to the academic speakers, which helped deepen and enrich the dialogue.

The public workshop in the afternoon, in turn, offered an accessible and engaging environment where the broader public could learn more about Vaishnava philosophy and A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami’s impact on spiritual thought and practice. Registered participants were also encouraged to ask questions, promoting a dynamic atmosphere of learning and reflection.

The speakers were Måns Broo (Åbo Akademi University, Finland) Nirmalaya Narayan Chakraborty (Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, India), Santanu Dey (Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, Culcutta, India), Ravi Gupta (Utah State University, US), Knut A. Jacobsen (University of Bergen, Norway), Willy Pfändtner (Stockholm University), Ferdinando Sardella (Stockholm University), and Graham Schweig (GTU Berkley, US).

Conclusion

As a conclusion, the workshop showcased the great academic and public engagement in the history and philosophy of one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the 20th century. Participants left with a richer understanding of Vaishnavism, the Bhagavata Purana, and the mark left by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami on the global spiritual scene. The event underscored the importance of dialogues that bridge academic and public spheres, allowing for a deeper appreciation of cultural and philosophical heritage.

Video

The workshop was recorded by a participant, and the video is available on YouTube:

There is also a full length version, available here: