08/13/2026
Srila Prabhupada did not encourage worship of Lord Shiva for material benefits or with the idea that he is independent of the Supreme Lord. Yet the Srimad-Bhagavatam glorifies Lord Shiva as vaishnavanam yatha shambhuh, the greatest of all Vaishnavas. He is also revered as the protector of the holy dhama. Therefore, Gaudiya Vaishnavas lovingly approach him as Gopishvara Mahadeva, not for wealth, power, or material enjoyment, but to beg for pure devotion and entrance into the loving service of Sri Sri Radha-Krishna. This is the mood and intention of our worship.