The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today launched the book “Sing, Dance and Lead: Leadership Lessons from the Life of Srila Prabhupada” authored by Hindol Sengupta, at a function held at the Vice-President’s Enclave, New Delhi.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President described India as a civilisational leader whose traditions have consistently emphasised leadership rooted in values, service and inner discipline. He said that the life of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada stands firmly in this lineage, exemplifying leadership founded on purpose, humility and moral clarity.
The Vice-President observed that the thoughts and teachings of Swami Prabhupada are more relevant today than ever in a rapidly transforming world. He said that Swami Prabhupada established institutions that would continue to serve humanity for generations, adding that the true measure of his leadership lay in the fact that while many may not know his name, millions across the world are touched by his work and its enduring impact.
The Vice-President recalled that at an advanced age, Swami Prabhupada undertook an extraordinary journey across continents, carrying with him not merely a religious philosophy but a way of life anchored in discipline, devotion and joy. Referring to the founding of International Society for Krishna Consciousness in 1966, he noted that its global success was a testament to leadership based not on authority, but on conviction, service and clarity of vision.
Highlighting the central theme of the book, the Vice-President said that Sing, Dance and Lead conveys the powerful idea that leadership can be joyful, participative and deeply human. He observed that Swami Prabhupada led not by command, but by inspiration, creating enduring institutions while remaining rooted in simplicity and devotion.
Referring to the teachings of saint-poet Thiruvalluvar, the Vice-President underlined that leadership begins with clarity of thought and elevated inner vision, which must then be translated into collective action. He said the book effectively presents Swami Prabhupada’s life as a case study in ethical and transformational leadership, bridging history, philosophy and contemporary leadership thought.
The Vice-President noted that such works are particularly relevant for those engaged in public life, where democratic institutions thrive on trust, restraint and a spirit of service. He expressed hope that the book would inspire young readers to seek purpose beyond material success and reflect on leadership as a means of uplifting others and contributing to the larger good.
The event was attended by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; Founder and Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation and President, ISKCON Bangalore Madhu Pandit Das; Vice Chairman and Co-Founder, The Akshaya Patra Foundation and Senior Vice-President, ISKCON Bangalore Chanchalapati Das, along with senior officials, scholars and invited guests.