Preaching Krishna Consciousness in America

Mārkine bhāgavata-dharma is a moving prayer that Śrīla Prabhupāda composed in 1965, shortly after his arrival in America. It is a confidential exchange with Kṛṣṇa, written in a small ship’s cabin in the port of Boston. This prayer is not only a poetic expression of personal devotion, but also a historical document heralding the quiet beginning of a spiritual movement that would soon change the world.

In simple, heartfelt verses, Prabhupāda speaks of his own dependence on the mercy of the Lord, prays for divine guidance, and expresses his unwavering determination to fulfill the mission of his spiritual master. The poem reflects humility, trust, and complete surrender—qualities that lead the way to true spiritual success.

Although this prayer was not originally intended for the public, it was later published at the request of his disciples and can now be both read and sung—in the original Bengali, in translations, or in musical reinterpretations such as the English version presented here, Make Me Dance.

This new form of presentation blends traditional bhakti poetry with contemporary music—an invitation to be touched by the innermost spirit of this poem. For anyone who listens to or reads Mārkine bhāgavata-dharma encounters not just a text, but the heart of a servant of God who was ready to give everything, trusting that Kṛṣṇa would guide him. May this prayer inspire us too to become instruments in the hands of the Lord—ready to dance when He calls.