Bhaktivedanta Swami born Abhay Charan De, in Calcutta on 1st September, 1896 was good at studies, showing special inclination for philosophy and science. Later, he became an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi's Civil Disobedience Movement. He dedicated his life  to preaching the message of Indian culture and Indian philosophy world­wide. He worked tirelessly and translated over 100 books on vedic literature into English with elaborate scholarly commentaries. His texts and translations are now used in more than 3000 Universities in different countries of the world.

He initiated many reform programmes including highly successful anti-drug addiction and recovery facilities, interfacing  moral  education in primary and  secondary  schools, food and emergency relief programmes etc.

Whether his services were required in war-torn countries like Bosnia, famine-struck countries like Ethopia, inner city NYC and London in aid of the homeless, flood-stricken Bengal or Florida, drought affected Andhra Pradesh, earthquake disaster  areas like Armenia or Latur, Maharashtra, his Food for life Rescue Teams have sprung timely to the forefront to  provide healthy vegetarian meals  and other  services  to the  needy.

For his role  in helping  people all over  the  world  to  understand  the message of Indian culture and philosophy, Bhaktivedanta Swami could be called as India's Cultural Ambassador to the world, and his  contribution  to the upliftment of society and betterment of mankind have been widely appreciated.

By his straightforward presentation of our Indian cultural and philosophical heritage, millions have developed a deeper appreciation and understanding of India.

The Department of Posts is issuing a special commemorative postage stamp on August 26, 1997 to honour his  memory.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India