Author Of 55 Books, Stephen Knapp Says Vedic Culture Changed His Life

NEW DELHI (ANI)- President Droupadi Murmu on April 28 conferred the Padma Shri award in the field of Literature and Education on American author and researcher Stephen Knapp.

Knapp, who has authored around 55 books on Indian history, culture, and spirituality, said the honor feels like recognition from “Mother India” for his lifelong service in spreading awareness about Vedic culture.

“I’m very grateful for this. Quite honestly, I never expected it to happen. A friend of mine said it’s like Mother India recognizing you for decades of service in sharing the deeper understanding of Vedic culture and Hinduism,” Knapp said.

He credited his spiritual masters for inspiring his journey and said his initial goal was to introduce Vedic knowledge to Western audiences.

“Originally, I was trying to share the knowledge of the Vedas with other Westerners. But the way I wrote also connected with a large Indian audience, which led to many opportunities, including lecture tours across India,” he explained.

Expressing his deep appreciation, he added, “I thank the dharamists, Hindus, and the ancient rishis who gave us this culture. It has completely transformed my life.”