In 1952, Srila Prabhupada formed a devotee group called "The League of Devotees" in Jhansi. His friend, Dr. Sastri comments:
In his heart, always it was burning that the whole world was suffering in the materialistic view - everyone is busy in eat, drink and be merry. He was having iron-will and determination about his mission.
"He was not doubtful at all. Actually, he was always preaching that there was no other way except the Hare Krishna mantra. So, always discussing, sometimes the whole night he was discussing with me, and sometimes I was fed up. I was requesting, 'Please don't disturb me. Please let me sleep.' And he - the old man missionary worker - he was just like a young man."
Srila Prabhupada's preaching work caught the attention of prominent personalities, including the Indian Prime Minister, Bahadur Lal Shastri, who wrote him:
Dear Swamiji,
Many thanks for the letter. I am indeed grateful to you for presenting a copy of the "Srimad Bhagavatam" to me. I do realise that you are doing valuable work. It would be a good idea if the libraries in the Government Institutions purchase copies of this book.