Since 1972, the Prabhupada Book Marathon has inspired ISKCON devotees to share the spiritual wisdom of Srila Prabhupada’s books with the world. Now celebrated as the “Live to Give” campaign, this annual effort aims to “cover the earth” with copies of the Bhagavad-gita As It Is, including its recent milestone of even delivering Gitas to Antarctica. This achievement fulfilled a longstanding aspiration of the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (BBT) to bring Krishna consciousness to every corner of the globe.

In recent years, the campaign has seen impressive growth under the dynamic leadership of Vaisesika Dasa. The 2023 Live to Give campaign set a target of 3.7 million copies and exceeded expectations by distributing over 3.78 million Bhagavad-gitas worldwide. This success showcased the tireless dedication of devotees across seven continents, united by the vision of sharing transcendental knowledge. Highlights from the 2023 campaign included creative distribution approaches, such as the Benelux yatra initiative to share sponsored books with yoga schools and strengthening connections with communities seeking spiritual enrichment.

Building on this momentum, the BBT MCI Team (Marketing, Communications, and Innovation) has launched the 2024 campaign with a new goal: to distribute 4.2 million Bhagavad-gitas between September 18, 2024, and January 7, 2025. This ambitious target aligns with broader strategic objectives to distribute at least 100,008 sets of Srimad-Bhagavatam and reach 5 million Bhagavad-gitas distributed globally by 2026. Such efforts aim to fulfill Srila Prabhupada’s mission to spread Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s sankirtan movement, giving every soul the opportunity to access the wisdom of Vedic literature.

The campaign provides answers for devotees interested in joining this year’s initiative. Many wonder, “Why should I distribute books?” Srila Prabhupada emphasized that sharing knowledge of Krishna is the highest welfare activity, giving others the chance to understand the true purpose of life. The Bhagavad-gita, with its timeless teachings, enables readers to reflect on life’s meaning, leading them closer to Krishna.

Those new to book distribution often ask, “How do I begin?” The BBT has a supportive network of experienced book distributors eager to share guidance and build newcomers’ confidence. To ease the logistical side, the BBT offers both physical and sponsorship options, allowing devotees worldwide to participate without needing to store or carry the books themselves.

Participation in Live to Give is a straightforward method of engaging in devotional service and sharing Krishna consciousness with others. As Vaisesika stated, “Let’s unite as a One World Team to reach our goal of distributing 4.2 million Gitas.” The BBT invites everyone—whether seasoned distributors or first-time participants—to join the mission. This year, the campaign encourages devotees to register online, pledge their distribution goals, and stay connected with the global team. Each book distributed brings us one step closer to a world enriched by the wisdom of the Bhagavad-gita.

To participate in the global Live to Give campaign and make your pledge, visit the BBT’s registration page and become part of this significant spiritual effort. Together, let’s fulfill Srila Prabhupada’s vision to share Krishna consciousness with the world, one book at a time.

 You can get inspiration and education on the campaign by following the BBT on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.