"By following in the footsteps of the great acaryas, one associates with the hamsas or paramahamsas, those who are completely free from material contamination. Indeed, by following the instructions of the acaryas one is always freed from material contamination, and thus one's life becomes successful, for one reaches the goal of life."
(Srimad-Bhagavatam, 7.9.18, Purport)
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