Shrimad Bhagavatam with Commentary by Vishwanatha Chakravarti Thakura

We present to the reader the «Shrimad Bhagavatam», narrated by Sukadeva Goswami and written by the great sage Vyasa, with commentary by Srila Vishwanatha Chakravarti Thakura. This supreme scripture is capable of transforming the sinful lives of people in the Kali-yuga and liberating the whole world from illusion.

This book «Shrimad Bhagavatam» with the commentaries of Vishwanatha Chakravarti Thakura has been published by the blessing of our acharya, Srila Prabhupada, for he wanted these books to be read by devotees. The commentaries of previous acharyas undoubtedly help to understand more deeply the commentaries of Srila Prabhupada and further appreciate his contribution to the mission of Lord Chaitanya. And Srila Prabhupada's commentaries help to understand the commentaries of the acharyas. Thus, the acharyas complement each other and lead us to the lotus feet of Sri Krishna. One should not undervalue the contribution of previous acharyas, who worked for the benefit of future generations of Vaishnavas and all conditioned souls. Srila Prabhupada said that it is essential to study the works of the previous acharyas, as they left us invaluable manuscripts describing the philosophy of bhakti and the pastimes of the Lord. By studying their works, we directly associate with the great Vaishnavas, close associates of the Lord, and receive their experience and blessings. But this should be done through our param-guru, Srila Prabhupada, first studying his books.

Srila Prabhupada writes in his commentary on «Shrimad Bhagavatam»: «Not wishing to violate the laws and customs of the material world, the Lord appears to be born and to leave His body, but the pure devotees of the Lord are well aware of the true state of affairs. Therefore, those who seriously approach the study of «Shrimad Bhagavatam» must make use of the commentaries composed by such great acharyas as Jiva Goswami and Vishwanatha Chakravarti Thakura. To those who are not devotees of the Lord, the commentaries and explanations of these acharyas may seem like casuistry, but the disciples belonging to the chain of succession realize the full importance and relevance of the commentaries of the great acharyas.» (From the commentary on SB 3.4.28)

Srila Prabhupada said: "Following the previous acharyas is Vaishnavism".