Question
Why are there so many criticisms of you, Srila Acharyadeva?
Answer
To people who read negative things about me, I would say this:
In this world, at least some people will always envy and even hate a prominent person. I have certainly experienced this in my own life as an ISKCON leader. I receive even more criticism because I have honestly and sincerely presented views on certain external aspects of Krishna consciousness that go against what some others believe. Almost daily, I receive letters from intelligent devotees around the world who are grateful that I spoke out, even though I knew that some people would attack me for it. Prabhupada, his guru, and even Krishna Himself, were the target of many criticisms. That’s life.
Regarding my personal life, despite my imperfections, I do follow the four regulative principles, chant 16 rounds daily, and dedicate my activities to Srila Prabhupada’s mission. There are many intelligent devotees intimately acquainted with my personal life, and they continue to follow me because they know that I am practicing bhakti-yoga, as Prabhupada taught it.
On the internet, one can also find criticisms of me that are, literally, insane, involving wild, hateful fantasies. Again that is the price that every public leader must pay, especially in this age. I can only humbly beg Srila Prabhupada and Lord Krishna to continue to protect me, and to keep me at their lotus feet.
