Where Things Stand Now
Ownership sits with the Trust
The 1998 judgment in BC 170617 confirmed ownership of Srila Prabhupada's copyrights in the 1972 Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. The court record likewise describes the operating corporation as the Trust's agent and the Trust as the Licensor of the works. Whatever else may be debated, the works belong to the Trust.
Trusteeship is being confirmed
The Trust's current trusteeship is in the process of being confirmed by the California Superior Court under Probate Code § 17200, with the California Attorney General served. Until that confirmation issues, the Trust acts prudently: designing its publishing and licensing programme now, and reserving long-term or exclusive commitments for when confirmation is in hand.
What the Trust is doing
Restoring the originals
Preparing faithful reprints of the original, unrevised editions, beginning with the most-requested titles.
Opening licensing
Receiving enquiries from temples, publishers and individuals who wish to print the original books under a mission-first, non-exclusive approach.
Regularising the record
Completing the court process, maintaining the Trust's registrations, and curating the primary documents for publication on this site.
An invitation
This is a moment for the whole community. If you want the original books on your shelf, pre-order them. If you can print and distribute them, apply for a licence. If you simply want to stay informed, join the newsletter.