Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Bapaji – My Support System Sarvarpit Shreyance Shah, a member of the Steering Committee of the Mission and a part of the Sadguru Prerna Core Team inks how Pujya Gurudevshri’s ceaseless compassion and constant support have paved the path of his spiritual journey. That morning in 1985, 39 years ago, is as clear in memory as if it was yesterday. I was seeing Bapaji after many years. I was around 11 years old then and I had last seen Him in Hampi in 1980, 5 years before that day, where I had gone with my parents. There was an orphanage on the ground floor of our school and He had come there to meet someone. I approached Him thinking He might not recognise me, but I still went ahead and bowed to Him. To my surprise He said, “You are Rameshbhai’s son!” This was my first face-to-face meeting with Him. Connecting the dots today, I am sure He wasn’t there to meet someone; He was there to reconnect from where we left in the past. Through almost my entire teen years, I had been fortunate to be around Him a lot! Those are my most memorable days yet. We used to talk a lot – the topic would range from what I did during the day to current affairs. The topic wasn’t important at all. The important part was spending time with Him. It would really seem like time had stopped and I was in a different world. Since I would spend most of my time with Him, my friend circle from school and college was very small. As I see it today, His main intention of keeping me with Him, was to keep me away from the vices of college life. My whole world was revolving around Him. And, it was such a great feeling. Days passed and I enjoyed every minute of it. There wasn’t a single day when I hadn’t met Him, not a single day when I hadn’t spoken with Him over the phone. Rising in Devotion In 1989, He had to go to Antwerp for His father’s heart surgery. He was going for almost a month and a half and He had promised that He would write a letter from there. Days were passing and I was waiting for His letter. He wrote a letter on 6th April, 1989. In the last paragraph, He wrote a small quote, which meant a lot to me: Pray without ceasing, God hears what you say; From the moment you rise, to the close of the day, Don’t think for a moment, that He turns a deaf ear Trust and have faith and you’ll never know fear. He ended the letter with the words “your constant companion” followed by French words, “Je t’aime”, which means I love you. One Sunday during the mid-nineties, we had gone for an outing. I had told Him during the day that I had brought my treasure with me to show Him. All my memories with Him, His letters, His handwritten chits, wrappers of chocolates received as His Prasad and so many other things. There was a box full of all these things. On our way back, He asked me to stop the car and give Him the treasure box. He took the box and acted as if He had thrown all its contents in a stream nearby. I was virtually in tears as I had tremendous attachment for those things. After some time, He returned everything back to me and told me that it was a test of my devotion. He wanted to know, whether I accepted His every wish or not. It taught me two lessons – His ajna is much more important than His prasadi and to not cling on to the past, but stay in the present. Holding me Through Joys and Sorrows An extremely joyous moment of my life came in January 2001, my daughter Rhea’s birth. At 11.48 p.m. in the night, Bapaji visited the hospital and we got the news of Rhea’s birth. Bapaji took her in His arms and touched her forehead. He said that she was the first baby He had touched at zero hours. We all can see how blessed she is! The year 2004 brought two news at opposite ends of the spectrum. First, I heard the good news that Bapaji wanted me to become the Sarvarpit Group Leader. It was a wonderful opportunity for me to learn various skills and apply all that Bapaji had taught me all these years. I was very happy on hearing this. At around the same time; my mom was diagnosed with cancer. It was something totally out of the blue. I was completely broken when I heard this. We met Bapaji and He became the pillar of strength for all of us. At one point, I even thought that I should ask Bapaji to make someone else the leader, since I would be busy with mom’s treatment, doctors, hospitals, etc. and so wouldn’t be able to give justice to this seva. However, He asserted that I become the leader. I couldn’t understand why. But it gave me the indication that there was another dimension to this. It slowly dawned upon me that with this responsibility He kept me busy and the negative thoughts stayed out of my mind. If He had not made me the leader, I would have passed through a very low phase. It would have been a disaster. On the night of Diwali, 13th November, 2004, everyone was celebrating Diwali in Dharampur and at 2.30 a.m., mom breathed her last amidst constant japa. I called Bapaji and told Him how it had happened. From that moment, He took care that we got over this grief. In doing this, He made me realise, how much He cares for me and each one of us. Shaping me Through Seva It is Bapaji’s hallmark that He polishes every facet of our existence. He worked on me by grooming me for seva, inculcating the importance of perfection and yet teaching me to be detached and free from pride. I realised that the important thing was not to get the work done, but the attitude with which the work was done. During the construction of Yajnasthal at the Ashram, we would make weekly visits to Dharampur to supervise the progress of the construction. At the fag-end of the construction, when barely two weeks were left for the deadline, we decided to stay back in Dharampur, so we could expedite the pending work and ensure that we were ready by the deadline. During this time, Rhea had to be hospitalised and I spoke to my wife Amee over the phone and asked if she needed me. But my family told me to take care of the construction seva and they will take care of Rhea in Mumbai, so we decided that I would stay back in Dharampur. When Bapaji heard about this, He visited Rhea regularly at the hospital and ensured that she didn’t miss her father and made her feel fine. What better example of YogakshemamVahamyaham – He ensures the safety and well-being of His devotees. As a Steering Committee member, I have seen how He nurtures the seed of spirituality through seva. Our usual Steering Committee meetings are scheduled in such a way that the committee meets for two hours to deliberate on the various points on agenda, followed by half an hour of meeting with Him, when the committee apprises Him about the various points discussed and subsequently He gives guidance on the points. But before taking up the points, He starts with a few minutes of satsang. In this manner, He ensures that not just the head, but the heart is also used while taking decisions. We have also experienced that He comes up with a point that we may have thought as being not so important and not deliberated enough or something which we may have completely overlooked. It is the Master’s way of guiding us subtly but surely. All these years, Bapaji has taught me so many things, how to think, how to talk, how to get things done and much more. To sum it all up, He taught me how to live life. It’s up to me now to live it in the way He wants me to. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Compassionate Action through Karuna Abhiyan Karuna Abhiyan is an initiative by the Government of Gujarat, aimed at rescuing and treating animals and birds injured during festivals like Uttarayan, where kite-flying often leads to injuries. Since its inception in 2015, the campaign has mobilised veterinary professionals and volunteers across the state to provide timely medical assistance to affected animals and birds. Under the Karuna Abhiyan 2025, Shrimad Rajchandra Animal Nursing Home, in collaboration with the Forest Department of Dharampur, extended its compassionate wings to care for injured birds. From January 10 to 20, dedicated teams of doctors and assistants worked tirelessly from various locations to provide life-saving treatment to various species, including pigeons, owls, and flamingos. This noble endeavour embodied the true spirit of empathy. The initiative served as a reminder that compassion knows no bounds, offering hope and care where it is needed most. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 A Conference on Innovation and Inclusion in Education Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul hosted the Educational Conference 2024-25, organised by the Valsad Jilla Acharya Sangh in association with Navneet Education Limited. This landmark event gathered 90 principals from various schools across the Valsad district, alongside dignitaries like Shri Bhanubhai Panchal, Chief, Gujarat Rajya Acharya Sangh; Dr Rajeshri Tandel, District Education Officer, Valsad and Shri Dipak Thakkar from Navneet Education Limited. Samir Ajmeri, Principal, Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, emphasised the importance of this conference in addressing the challenges and opportunities in education. The keynote address by the Chief Guest, Shri Bhanubhai Panchal, focused on topics like the future of education, innovation, the role of principals, administrative policies, and fostering inclusiveness in schools. The conference was a resounding success, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue on education’s future and reinforcing the role of students, educators, and institutions in shaping society. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 A National Workshop on Plant Microscopy Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth successfully hosted its inaugural national-level three-day workshop on The Art of Plant Microscopy. The workshop brought together participants from across India, representing diverse regions such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, West Bengal, and Gujarat. It served as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, featuring esteemed speakers from Maharashtra and Gujarat. Participants enthusiastically engaged in hands-on training sessions focused on various micro-techniques and microscopy, including slide preparation and advanced staining methods. All participants were awarded certificates upon successfully completing the workshop. This milestone event underscores Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and advancing scientific knowledge. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Nov 2024 Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Nov 2024 Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Love that Liberates Love is such an energy that if it falls, it is hell and if it rises, it is liberation. Pujya Gurudevshri explains the nature of love so that we can employ it to experience communion with the divine. All feelings, ridiculous to sublime, are linked with love. It is love only that brings sorrow, anxiety, anguish, friction, fear, jealousy, animosity, aversion, restlessness. It is love only that brings joy, freedom, peace, fearlessness, stability, purity. Because these contradictory feelings are connected with love, it is necessary to understand the nature of love. Two Forms of Love One form of love is lust, the other is devotion. The former is like muck, the latter transforms into lotus. When a worldly person speaks of love, it means lust. When a seeker speaks of love, it means devotion. From lust to devotion, all feelings are connected to love. Every disease in the world is due to love. Yet the Wise Ones say that do not run away from love, try to understand it. If the love energy gets transformed, it will become a pathway to liberation. Love makes you fall and love raises you too. Like a ladder, it can bring you down or take you up. The difference is in the direction. Coming down is lust, rising high is devotion. Therefore, understand the energy, the greatness of love. Unfamiliar with the True Meaning of Love You think you have loved, and are familiar with love. But the saints say, that you have only loved your ego. Wife, children etc. are only an excuse. You got the children educated, raised them, went through difficulties, sacrificed to fulfil their desires… all this is fake. If you were informed that they weren’t your children, would you still have the same love for them? Then you will realise that your love was for ‘your’ children and not children per se. You are interested in fattening your ego. You wanted some hook to hang this fat ‘I’ and you got the children. If they are not yours, the ego does not benefit and so your love also fades away. What kind of love is it that changes into dislike within moments? One day you say, ‘I can’t live without you’ and next day, to the same person, you say, ‘I can’t live with you’. Can this even be called love? The smoke of your expectations is so thick that it is difficult to find the flame of love in it. Have you really loved anyone? You take care of the near and dear ones only so that you don’t lose the joy that comes from them. You keep them under you by destroying their independence, dignity and say that I love them immensely! Love According to the Saints The love saints speak of is nectar that sets you free, while yours is poison that binds you to the world, that can turn into hatred and is filled with fear, jealousy, possessiveness, ownership, ego. They sing the song of love that has no possessiveness; that does not differentiate between me, my, you, yours; love that does not stink of jealousy, ego etc.; love that doesn’t throw you into suffering. This love is not lust, it is devotion, prayer. This alone will open the gates of the divine. Until the value of the divine is realised, until the divine love arises, all your religious practices are mere formalities. Does your ego bend when you bow down in the temple? Is there a song in your heart and joy in your eyes while worshiping the divine? Or are the rituals done mechanically to finish the duty, or out of fear of being labelled an atheist? Once true love blossoms in you, the divine does not remain an object of curiosity, an intellectual itch but turns into a dire need of life. On experiencing the drop of love, the quest for the divine, the ocean, comes alive and you are ready to give up anything. Feeling the touch of the ray of love, you want to search for the sun, its source. When you smell the fragrance of love, you are pulled towards the garden from where it spreads. Only then the true quest begins. When the energy of love turns towards the divine, thoughts quieten and there arises contentment, peace, relaxation, silence and bliss. Is Divine Love Easy or Difficult? At some places, it is said that divine love is very easy and attained effortlessly, and at some places, it is said to be very difficult. Both are correct. It is easy because divine love is your inherent nature. It is not possible for anyone to separate from one’s nature. It is difficult because you are so much identified with the ego that you have become blind to the divine. How can you separate from the divine that enlivens your life? You may forget but you can never be separated from it. Moreover, the divine does not get altered or destroyed just because you have forgotten its presence. Like a fish in the ocean, you are in the divine. How can attainment of the sea be difficult for the fish? The fish never leaves the water. In the same way, by nature, you have never separated from the divine. Therefore, to say ‘search for the divine’ is inappropriate because the divine is never lost. You don’t need to chase the divine. When the body and the mind stop running, when there arises no desire, passion or thought, you will attain that which has always been with you. Just as a carpenter searching for the pencil he had kept behind his ear and forgotten; the moment he remembers, he stops, puts his hand there and finds it. In the same way, by remembering the divine, you shall realise it. It is that simple. The saints also say that to love the divine is difficult because of ego. Your ego is the hindrance. It makes you hard-hearted. You don’t even feel the need for the divine. You speak of spirituality and the divine, but very superficially. You only talk but you have no faith that by attaining the divine, you shall become fulfilled. You are not ready to give up anything for it. Intellect nourishes ego and ego hinders communion with the divine. Ego can dissolve only if you move from the intellect to the heart. Heart means love. The divine is attained through love. Love is the gateway. Love is not math. Calculations are needed to attain worldly things. The intellect wants to win and love wishes to lose. Love wins by losing. By surrendering, you become the king of kings. What Should Love be Like? Love should be such that only the beloved is seen. Everywhere, he can see only the divine’s face, wisdom and state. Whatever is seen, whether a blossoming flower, the rising sun or the flowing river, everything is superseded by the divine alone. Some are mad after money, some after status, some after logic but rare few are mad after the divine. All are mad but their madness is different. Whilst others are mad after the material world, the devotee is mad after the divine. Whatever may happen, he is not harassed by any worldly desire. He has just one desire – the divine. And so, he remains steadfast, and does not get shattered like worldly people. Desire breaks you down but love makes you one, one with the divine. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Announcements 08-02-2025 Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University (Fri, 21 Feb, 2025): By the boundless grace of Param Krupalu Dev Shrimad Rajchandraji and by the revered hands of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, the auspicious Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University will take place on Fri, 21 Feb, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth. SRLC’s educational initiatives over the last two decades include Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth, Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, Shrimad Rajchandra Skill Development Centre and Shrimad Rajchandra Education Outreach Programme. A milestone in education care, Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University aims to uplift rural students, offer new opportunities and become a model of societal progress by providing world-class education with timeless values and 360-degree holistic development under one roof. All are invited to join in celebrating this joyous and significant moment for the Mission. Pujya Gurudevshri’s Presence at the Ashram (Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025): Pujya Gurudevshri will bless the Ashram with His physical presence from Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025. From Tue, 18 – Thu, 20 Feb, there will be paravartana of Pujya Gurudevshri’s pravachan held in Mumbai on Sat, 8 Feb, 2025. The second shibir of Shri Natak Samaysaar in 2025 – Punya Paap Ekatva Dwar, will be held at the Ashram from Sat, 22 – Sun, 23 Feb, 2025. Pujya Gurudevshri graciously accepting an invitation will perform the Khaat Muhurat of a new Swami Vivekanand Mandir in Dharampur. The head swami of Swaminarayan Haridham Sokhda, Prabodh Sagar Swami, will visit Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram on Wed, 19 Feb, 2025. On Wed, 26 Feb, the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, Pujya Gurudevshri will perform abhishek of a 125-foot tall Shivling on the occasion of 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev sanctifying the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence. Please click here to register for the shibir. Shrimad Rajchandraji Padhramani Ashtahnika Mahotsav (Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025): Celebrating 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev gracing the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence, an eight-day Mahotsav will be celebrated from Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025 at Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram. Devotees will be blessed with pravachans by Pujya Gurudevshri throughout the Mahotsav. During the last three days, there will also be satsang by various saints from Raj Parivaar. Throughout the Mahotsav, to take various special laabhs and the laabh of Tilak to Pujya Gurudevshri, Arti, Mangal Divo, Chamar, Swamivatsalya, etc. please contact Mission Trustee Premarpit Gautambhai Shah, +91 9821049338; [email protected]. Please click here for more information on the special laabhs or to fill in the laabh application form. Please click here for the detailed schedule and to register. Forthcoming Pravachan: The next pravachan at Yogi Sabhagruh will be held on Fri, 21 Mar, 2025 at 7:30 pm. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Param Krupalu Dev: As a Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s Divine Life is a mine of exemplary qualities. Digging deeper and deeper into His life, we unearth the hidden jewels. Let us view His life from a fresh perspective, marvel at His unmatched virtues and draw inspiration to walk in His footsteps. A lotus, having the beauty and charm of its own, blooms even amidst mud and dirt. Enlightened souls, by the virtue of their inner qualities live an exemplary life, no matter in which circumstances their karmas place them. Param Krupalu Dev’s life is a blazing example of how one can advance uninterrupted towards liberation even if he needs to fulfil worldly duties along the way. Let us look at Param Krupalu Dev’s role as a householder and seek inspiration to live a purposeful life. A Perfect Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s soul-focused studies, reflections and contemplations matured as He grew through His teens and resultantly His detachment towards the material world increased. He harboured a deep desire for renunciation. However, His parents out of their attachment for Him, did not grant Him permission to renounce the world. The twist of fate created by His preordained karmas carried Him to the marriage altar. While He resided in His True abode, never did He neglect His duties of a householder. Like an expert actor who distinctly differentiates his real and reel identity and performs his role to perfection, Param Krupalu Dev too did justice to all his responsibilities. A Supportive Husband From a very young age, Param Krupalu Dev’s views on marriage were extremely mature, respectful and profound. He elaborated upon how to live a married life in a harmonious manner. Param Krupalu Dev tied the knot of marriage with Smt. Jhabakbai at Morbi on Maha Sud 12, V.S. 1944 at the age of twenty. In those times, gender equality was not prevalent, the traditional society was conservative and narrow minded in its approach towards treating one’s wife. During such times, He advocated respect for the wife. After being married for about a year, He had written ‘My Views on Women’, in which He states His heartfelt beliefs in a straightforward manner with crystal clear transparency. He writes: A woman should be taught right conduct. She should be considered an aspirant. One should maintain the relation of a spiritual sister with her. From the depth of the heart, one should not, in any way, discriminate between a mother, a sister and her… As far as possible, speak with her in a language that is free from lust.’ While a newly married youth would be immersed in fulfilling his desires, Param Krupalu Dev’s soul brimmed with dispassion. In V.S.1956, Param Krupalu Dev had expressed that the quantum of attachment that ordinary beings experience for their wife in one day, has not been experienced by Him in His entire lifetime. A Guiding Father Param Krupalu Dev had two sons and two daughters who thought very highly of their father. He loved and guided them. Once, Param Krupalu Dev told His younger daughter Smt. Kashiben that she is not Kashi but a blissful soul thereby sowing the seeds of spirituality in her at a very young age. He fondly used to address His elder son Shri Chhaganbhai as ‘Chhaganshastri’. He left such an impression on His children that in his personal notes, Chhaganbhai highlighted Param Krupalu Dev’s heightened spiritual state by mentioning that it was crystal clear that Param Krupalu Dev’s soul would never ever be seen as a father again. A Sincere Son Right from a very tender age, Param Krupalu Dev performed His duties as a son with utmost sincerity. He ensured His parents’ spiritual well-being and progress by guiding them through subtle yet powerful teachings. He used to often ask Devba whether she would come to moksh. She would ask, what is moksh like? He would reply that I shall take you there. Such was His respect for His parents that His mother Smt. Devba said that she does not recollect Param Krupalu Dev disobeying her even once during His entire lifetime. At the age of 10, Param Krupalu Dev told His mother to whole-heartedly serve her aged and weak in-laws. Around V.S. 1934, the family was undergoing severe financial crisis. Param Krupalu Dev was needed to help His father and He accepted this responsibility. He discontinues His studies and joined His father in business. As a son, He was so concerned about His mother that even on His deathbed, amongst His last few words, was the advice to His brother to take care of His mother. A Caring Brother Param Krupalu Dev’s brother Shri Mansukhbhai was nine years younger to Him and shared a strong bond with Him. Param Krupalu Dev encouraged him to gain quality education. Mansukhbhai had enrolled for English schooling, which was rare during those times. After his matriculation, Param Krupalu Dev engaged him in business. As time passed and His health weakened, Param Krupalu Dev entrusted him with His responsibilities. Mansukhbhai served Him right till His last moments. Truly, this pair of brothers was akin to Shri Ram and Lakshman. Such was Param Krupalu Dev’s perfection in all His duties that none of His relatives had any complaints for Him. Even amidst worldly responsibilities, Param Krupalu Dev’s heart yearned for complete renunciation. This highlights that the best path for liberation is indeed the path of renunciation. However, if that is not possible then Param Krupalu Dev by His own example has shown that one can still strive for spiritual progress while discharging worldly duties. Like a fierce lion that defeats its opponents in their own dens, Param Krupalu Dev defeated delusion, while remaining in the house of delusion itself! Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Dharma – Philosophy or Experience? What is dharma? Is it a philosophical exploration of the Truth? Or is it an experience of that which is beyond words and thoughts? Pujya Gurudevshri invites us to examine whether dharma has been correctly understood and is it truly fulfilling its purpose. Dharma is that which manifests as dharma and wisdom is that which manifests as wisdom. This seemingly obvious statement holds great value as, in the present times, it is often seen that in spite of diligent religious practices and in-depth study of the scriptures, there is something missing due to which these practices and knowledge are incapable of annihilating or even slackening ignorance and passions. What should a blind man do to see light? Should he read books on light? Should he study the principles of light? Or should he memorise information about light? Even by doing all of these, will he be able to experience light? Seeking the experience of light through any means other than curing his blindness will be a waste of time and energy. Similarly, the disease of ignorance cannot be cured by some mere thoughts and concepts. Dharma is a remedy, it is not dry philosophy. It is a means to attain inner vision. Dharma – A Revolution Within Dharma, which is actually capable of transforming man, has almost become extinct due to wrong beliefs. Without right knowledge; only a process of thinking and its attractive presentation is misunderstood as dharma. Immature philosophers and ignorant preachers define God, Truth and the Self through their own speculations. They have turned dharma into a bundle of assumptions, and unproductive intellectual exercises. They then put forward arguments to oppose others’ ideas, and enforce rigid instructions, thus contributing to the gradual destruction of dharma. Ignorant of true dharma, they quarrel to uphold false dogmas, leading to disputes and even wars in the name of dharma. The tragedy is that people make judgements based on false hypotheses and then believing them to be the ultimate truth, adhere to them. Rigidity takes the place of steadfastness and gives rise to sectarianism. These add to ignorance and take them further away from the truth. Moreover, they do not even pause to enquire why life has remained so chaotic even after studying scriptures. If this continues, dharma will deteriorate even further. The knowledge of truth must lead to peace, happiness, love, compassion and forbearance bringing one closer to the divinity within. Instead, the so-called dharma and the institutions founded upon it, disconnect man from even his own neighbours, let alone God. Mistaking only bodily activities and scriptural studies as dharma has created much delusion. Instead of gaining solutions to life’s problems and questions, it has created confusion. Such religion will not bring any connection with one’s higher Self. To intellectually know about the Self is entirely different from experiencing it. To experience the True Self, one needs the right vision, which can be gained by an inner transformation alone. The solution does not lie in words but in a revolution within. Transcending the Mind Thinking about the truth is not enough to bring the realisation of truth, because truth is not an object of thoughts, it is an experience. It is attained only in the state of no-mind. Thoughts do not have entry into the truth. They can become a gateway to the experience of truth but truth cannot be attained or experienced by them. This does not mean that one should not think at all or one should stop thinking and have only faith. Remember, dharma does not advise us to fall below the level of thinking to no thinking, but it wants us to rise above thinking. To begin with, thoughts are essential. But for the experience of truth, one will have to transcend even thoughts. Think! However, know its limitations. To know the unknown Self, go beyond thoughts. Those who stop at blind faith have not even begun the journey, and those who get lost in thinking don’t see the end. Only those who can go beyond thinking attain the truth. Get rid of blind faith through right thinking and then transcend the mind too. What remains is consciousness, truth, the Self. That is the real dharma through which one attains self-realisation. Truth is Beyond Words Truth being unknown to the ignorant minds, it has been imagined and assumed by many logicians. They have created a whole new world of dharma through their vain logic. Little do they know that all that can be grasped by the intellect is in the realm of the known while dharma is related to the unknown, the Self. The unknown cannot be known by thoughts. Only when the known dissolves does the unknown manifest. Dharma imparts a vision through which the unknown Self becomes known. Truth is attained in silence. Words are just milestones. They only indicate the direction of truth. They are not the truth. The purpose of words is to convey the importance of truth. They are inert, while the truth is consciousness. Words can only point towards the truth. However, the problem arises when that is forgotten and the indicator is taken as the ultimate experience of the truth. If you yearn for the experience of the truth then you must go beyond the words. The Role of Scriptures The question may arise that if truth cannot be attained through words then what is the role of the scriptures in the pursuit of truth? Also, until this day, if no one has been able to describe truth completely, then how can the study of scriptures benefit the seekers of truth? It is possible that one may have studied many scriptures and yet not moved even an inch towards the truth, whereas one who has known the truth has imbibed the essence of all the scriptures. Therefore, one must clearly understand what can be gained through scriptures and what cannot. It is essential to know that though the scriptures have a purpose and importance, they also have limitations. Scriptures are the expression of the boundless compassion of the Enlightened Ones who have reached the shores of truth and experienced it. They are aware that truth cannot be delivered in words and yet they try to embody their experience in words with the sole purpose of releasing suffering souls from the painful clutches of ignorance. They want every soul to experience what they are experiencing. They know that the scriptures will not bring contentment but are enough to create divine discontentment within. Through words, one must feel the pull towards transcending the words. In ignorance, you take these words as truth. You give more importance to words than the truth itself. Truth and the scriptural words are not contrary to each other. Words are but the photograph of the truth, a shadow of the truth. Just as following the shadow of a man brings one closer to the man, following the scriptures you get an opportunity to come closer to the truth. However by catching hold of the shadow one cannot catch the man, similarly holding on to words cannot give you a hold over truth. You do not realise that attachment for words deprives you of the experience of truth. Only when the attachment to words reduces can you move towards truth. The day you realise the selfless compassion and noble intention of the Great Ones in giving us the scriptures, and also the limitation of words in delivering the truth, scriptures do not remain mere words. Not satisfied with only studying or memorising them, for you they become a source of inspiration, and give rise to a yearning for the experience of truth, a quest for realising something that is extraordinary. This thirst to experience the truth sucks away all the interest in worldliness and begins the inward journey that has to be made by each individual on his own. Truth is in the Self and not in the scriptures or other spiritual practices. They can only give you information about truth, indicate the direction of the truth and facilitate turning within. If this is not realised, these tools can become meaningless or may even prove harmful. Study the scriptures, reflect upon them to comprehend the essence of the truth expounded in them, turn within, and go beyond words to realise the truth experienced by the Enlightened Ones. This is true dharma, a perfect cure for the disease of ignorance. Posts navigation Older postsNewer posts
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Compassionate Action through Karuna Abhiyan Karuna Abhiyan is an initiative by the Government of Gujarat, aimed at rescuing and treating animals and birds injured during festivals like Uttarayan, where kite-flying often leads to injuries. Since its inception in 2015, the campaign has mobilised veterinary professionals and volunteers across the state to provide timely medical assistance to affected animals and birds. Under the Karuna Abhiyan 2025, Shrimad Rajchandra Animal Nursing Home, in collaboration with the Forest Department of Dharampur, extended its compassionate wings to care for injured birds. From January 10 to 20, dedicated teams of doctors and assistants worked tirelessly from various locations to provide life-saving treatment to various species, including pigeons, owls, and flamingos. This noble endeavour embodied the true spirit of empathy. The initiative served as a reminder that compassion knows no bounds, offering hope and care where it is needed most.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 A Conference on Innovation and Inclusion in Education Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul hosted the Educational Conference 2024-25, organised by the Valsad Jilla Acharya Sangh in association with Navneet Education Limited. This landmark event gathered 90 principals from various schools across the Valsad district, alongside dignitaries like Shri Bhanubhai Panchal, Chief, Gujarat Rajya Acharya Sangh; Dr Rajeshri Tandel, District Education Officer, Valsad and Shri Dipak Thakkar from Navneet Education Limited. Samir Ajmeri, Principal, Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, emphasised the importance of this conference in addressing the challenges and opportunities in education. The keynote address by the Chief Guest, Shri Bhanubhai Panchal, focused on topics like the future of education, innovation, the role of principals, administrative policies, and fostering inclusiveness in schools. The conference was a resounding success, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue on education’s future and reinforcing the role of students, educators, and institutions in shaping society.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 A National Workshop on Plant Microscopy Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth successfully hosted its inaugural national-level three-day workshop on The Art of Plant Microscopy. The workshop brought together participants from across India, representing diverse regions such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, West Bengal, and Gujarat. It served as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, featuring esteemed speakers from Maharashtra and Gujarat. Participants enthusiastically engaged in hands-on training sessions focused on various micro-techniques and microscopy, including slide preparation and advanced staining methods. All participants were awarded certificates upon successfully completing the workshop. This milestone event underscores Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and advancing scientific knowledge.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Love that Liberates Love is such an energy that if it falls, it is hell and if it rises, it is liberation. Pujya Gurudevshri explains the nature of love so that we can employ it to experience communion with the divine. All feelings, ridiculous to sublime, are linked with love. It is love only that brings sorrow, anxiety, anguish, friction, fear, jealousy, animosity, aversion, restlessness. It is love only that brings joy, freedom, peace, fearlessness, stability, purity. Because these contradictory feelings are connected with love, it is necessary to understand the nature of love. Two Forms of Love One form of love is lust, the other is devotion. The former is like muck, the latter transforms into lotus. When a worldly person speaks of love, it means lust. When a seeker speaks of love, it means devotion. From lust to devotion, all feelings are connected to love. Every disease in the world is due to love. Yet the Wise Ones say that do not run away from love, try to understand it. If the love energy gets transformed, it will become a pathway to liberation. Love makes you fall and love raises you too. Like a ladder, it can bring you down or take you up. The difference is in the direction. Coming down is lust, rising high is devotion. Therefore, understand the energy, the greatness of love. Unfamiliar with the True Meaning of Love You think you have loved, and are familiar with love. But the saints say, that you have only loved your ego. Wife, children etc. are only an excuse. You got the children educated, raised them, went through difficulties, sacrificed to fulfil their desires… all this is fake. If you were informed that they weren’t your children, would you still have the same love for them? Then you will realise that your love was for ‘your’ children and not children per se. You are interested in fattening your ego. You wanted some hook to hang this fat ‘I’ and you got the children. If they are not yours, the ego does not benefit and so your love also fades away. What kind of love is it that changes into dislike within moments? One day you say, ‘I can’t live without you’ and next day, to the same person, you say, ‘I can’t live with you’. Can this even be called love? The smoke of your expectations is so thick that it is difficult to find the flame of love in it. Have you really loved anyone? You take care of the near and dear ones only so that you don’t lose the joy that comes from them. You keep them under you by destroying their independence, dignity and say that I love them immensely! Love According to the Saints The love saints speak of is nectar that sets you free, while yours is poison that binds you to the world, that can turn into hatred and is filled with fear, jealousy, possessiveness, ownership, ego. They sing the song of love that has no possessiveness; that does not differentiate between me, my, you, yours; love that does not stink of jealousy, ego etc.; love that doesn’t throw you into suffering. This love is not lust, it is devotion, prayer. This alone will open the gates of the divine. Until the value of the divine is realised, until the divine love arises, all your religious practices are mere formalities. Does your ego bend when you bow down in the temple? Is there a song in your heart and joy in your eyes while worshiping the divine? Or are the rituals done mechanically to finish the duty, or out of fear of being labelled an atheist? Once true love blossoms in you, the divine does not remain an object of curiosity, an intellectual itch but turns into a dire need of life. On experiencing the drop of love, the quest for the divine, the ocean, comes alive and you are ready to give up anything. Feeling the touch of the ray of love, you want to search for the sun, its source. When you smell the fragrance of love, you are pulled towards the garden from where it spreads. Only then the true quest begins. When the energy of love turns towards the divine, thoughts quieten and there arises contentment, peace, relaxation, silence and bliss. Is Divine Love Easy or Difficult? At some places, it is said that divine love is very easy and attained effortlessly, and at some places, it is said to be very difficult. Both are correct. It is easy because divine love is your inherent nature. It is not possible for anyone to separate from one’s nature. It is difficult because you are so much identified with the ego that you have become blind to the divine. How can you separate from the divine that enlivens your life? You may forget but you can never be separated from it. Moreover, the divine does not get altered or destroyed just because you have forgotten its presence. Like a fish in the ocean, you are in the divine. How can attainment of the sea be difficult for the fish? The fish never leaves the water. In the same way, by nature, you have never separated from the divine. Therefore, to say ‘search for the divine’ is inappropriate because the divine is never lost. You don’t need to chase the divine. When the body and the mind stop running, when there arises no desire, passion or thought, you will attain that which has always been with you. Just as a carpenter searching for the pencil he had kept behind his ear and forgotten; the moment he remembers, he stops, puts his hand there and finds it. In the same way, by remembering the divine, you shall realise it. It is that simple. The saints also say that to love the divine is difficult because of ego. Your ego is the hindrance. It makes you hard-hearted. You don’t even feel the need for the divine. You speak of spirituality and the divine, but very superficially. You only talk but you have no faith that by attaining the divine, you shall become fulfilled. You are not ready to give up anything for it. Intellect nourishes ego and ego hinders communion with the divine. Ego can dissolve only if you move from the intellect to the heart. Heart means love. The divine is attained through love. Love is the gateway. Love is not math. Calculations are needed to attain worldly things. The intellect wants to win and love wishes to lose. Love wins by losing. By surrendering, you become the king of kings. What Should Love be Like? Love should be such that only the beloved is seen. Everywhere, he can see only the divine’s face, wisdom and state. Whatever is seen, whether a blossoming flower, the rising sun or the flowing river, everything is superseded by the divine alone. Some are mad after money, some after status, some after logic but rare few are mad after the divine. All are mad but their madness is different. Whilst others are mad after the material world, the devotee is mad after the divine. Whatever may happen, he is not harassed by any worldly desire. He has just one desire – the divine. And so, he remains steadfast, and does not get shattered like worldly people. Desire breaks you down but love makes you one, one with the divine. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Announcements 08-02-2025 Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University (Fri, 21 Feb, 2025): By the boundless grace of Param Krupalu Dev Shrimad Rajchandraji and by the revered hands of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, the auspicious Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University will take place on Fri, 21 Feb, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth. SRLC’s educational initiatives over the last two decades include Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth, Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, Shrimad Rajchandra Skill Development Centre and Shrimad Rajchandra Education Outreach Programme. A milestone in education care, Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University aims to uplift rural students, offer new opportunities and become a model of societal progress by providing world-class education with timeless values and 360-degree holistic development under one roof. All are invited to join in celebrating this joyous and significant moment for the Mission. Pujya Gurudevshri’s Presence at the Ashram (Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025): Pujya Gurudevshri will bless the Ashram with His physical presence from Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025. From Tue, 18 – Thu, 20 Feb, there will be paravartana of Pujya Gurudevshri’s pravachan held in Mumbai on Sat, 8 Feb, 2025. The second shibir of Shri Natak Samaysaar in 2025 – Punya Paap Ekatva Dwar, will be held at the Ashram from Sat, 22 – Sun, 23 Feb, 2025. Pujya Gurudevshri graciously accepting an invitation will perform the Khaat Muhurat of a new Swami Vivekanand Mandir in Dharampur. The head swami of Swaminarayan Haridham Sokhda, Prabodh Sagar Swami, will visit Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram on Wed, 19 Feb, 2025. On Wed, 26 Feb, the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, Pujya Gurudevshri will perform abhishek of a 125-foot tall Shivling on the occasion of 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev sanctifying the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence. Please click here to register for the shibir. Shrimad Rajchandraji Padhramani Ashtahnika Mahotsav (Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025): Celebrating 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev gracing the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence, an eight-day Mahotsav will be celebrated from Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025 at Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram. Devotees will be blessed with pravachans by Pujya Gurudevshri throughout the Mahotsav. During the last three days, there will also be satsang by various saints from Raj Parivaar. Throughout the Mahotsav, to take various special laabhs and the laabh of Tilak to Pujya Gurudevshri, Arti, Mangal Divo, Chamar, Swamivatsalya, etc. please contact Mission Trustee Premarpit Gautambhai Shah, +91 9821049338; [email protected]. Please click here for more information on the special laabhs or to fill in the laabh application form. Please click here for the detailed schedule and to register. Forthcoming Pravachan: The next pravachan at Yogi Sabhagruh will be held on Fri, 21 Mar, 2025 at 7:30 pm. Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Param Krupalu Dev: As a Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s Divine Life is a mine of exemplary qualities. Digging deeper and deeper into His life, we unearth the hidden jewels. Let us view His life from a fresh perspective, marvel at His unmatched virtues and draw inspiration to walk in His footsteps. A lotus, having the beauty and charm of its own, blooms even amidst mud and dirt. Enlightened souls, by the virtue of their inner qualities live an exemplary life, no matter in which circumstances their karmas place them. Param Krupalu Dev’s life is a blazing example of how one can advance uninterrupted towards liberation even if he needs to fulfil worldly duties along the way. Let us look at Param Krupalu Dev’s role as a householder and seek inspiration to live a purposeful life. A Perfect Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s soul-focused studies, reflections and contemplations matured as He grew through His teens and resultantly His detachment towards the material world increased. He harboured a deep desire for renunciation. However, His parents out of their attachment for Him, did not grant Him permission to renounce the world. The twist of fate created by His preordained karmas carried Him to the marriage altar. While He resided in His True abode, never did He neglect His duties of a householder. Like an expert actor who distinctly differentiates his real and reel identity and performs his role to perfection, Param Krupalu Dev too did justice to all his responsibilities. A Supportive Husband From a very young age, Param Krupalu Dev’s views on marriage were extremely mature, respectful and profound. He elaborated upon how to live a married life in a harmonious manner. Param Krupalu Dev tied the knot of marriage with Smt. Jhabakbai at Morbi on Maha Sud 12, V.S. 1944 at the age of twenty. In those times, gender equality was not prevalent, the traditional society was conservative and narrow minded in its approach towards treating one’s wife. During such times, He advocated respect for the wife. After being married for about a year, He had written ‘My Views on Women’, in which He states His heartfelt beliefs in a straightforward manner with crystal clear transparency. He writes: A woman should be taught right conduct. She should be considered an aspirant. One should maintain the relation of a spiritual sister with her. From the depth of the heart, one should not, in any way, discriminate between a mother, a sister and her… As far as possible, speak with her in a language that is free from lust.’ While a newly married youth would be immersed in fulfilling his desires, Param Krupalu Dev’s soul brimmed with dispassion. In V.S.1956, Param Krupalu Dev had expressed that the quantum of attachment that ordinary beings experience for their wife in one day, has not been experienced by Him in His entire lifetime. A Guiding Father Param Krupalu Dev had two sons and two daughters who thought very highly of their father. He loved and guided them. Once, Param Krupalu Dev told His younger daughter Smt. Kashiben that she is not Kashi but a blissful soul thereby sowing the seeds of spirituality in her at a very young age. He fondly used to address His elder son Shri Chhaganbhai as ‘Chhaganshastri’. He left such an impression on His children that in his personal notes, Chhaganbhai highlighted Param Krupalu Dev’s heightened spiritual state by mentioning that it was crystal clear that Param Krupalu Dev’s soul would never ever be seen as a father again. A Sincere Son Right from a very tender age, Param Krupalu Dev performed His duties as a son with utmost sincerity. He ensured His parents’ spiritual well-being and progress by guiding them through subtle yet powerful teachings. He used to often ask Devba whether she would come to moksh. She would ask, what is moksh like? He would reply that I shall take you there. Such was His respect for His parents that His mother Smt. Devba said that she does not recollect Param Krupalu Dev disobeying her even once during His entire lifetime. At the age of 10, Param Krupalu Dev told His mother to whole-heartedly serve her aged and weak in-laws. Around V.S. 1934, the family was undergoing severe financial crisis. Param Krupalu Dev was needed to help His father and He accepted this responsibility. He discontinues His studies and joined His father in business. As a son, He was so concerned about His mother that even on His deathbed, amongst His last few words, was the advice to His brother to take care of His mother. A Caring Brother Param Krupalu Dev’s brother Shri Mansukhbhai was nine years younger to Him and shared a strong bond with Him. Param Krupalu Dev encouraged him to gain quality education. Mansukhbhai had enrolled for English schooling, which was rare during those times. After his matriculation, Param Krupalu Dev engaged him in business. As time passed and His health weakened, Param Krupalu Dev entrusted him with His responsibilities. Mansukhbhai served Him right till His last moments. Truly, this pair of brothers was akin to Shri Ram and Lakshman. Such was Param Krupalu Dev’s perfection in all His duties that none of His relatives had any complaints for Him. Even amidst worldly responsibilities, Param Krupalu Dev’s heart yearned for complete renunciation. This highlights that the best path for liberation is indeed the path of renunciation. However, if that is not possible then Param Krupalu Dev by His own example has shown that one can still strive for spiritual progress while discharging worldly duties. Like a fierce lion that defeats its opponents in their own dens, Param Krupalu Dev defeated delusion, while remaining in the house of delusion itself! Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Dharma – Philosophy or Experience? What is dharma? Is it a philosophical exploration of the Truth? Or is it an experience of that which is beyond words and thoughts? Pujya Gurudevshri invites us to examine whether dharma has been correctly understood and is it truly fulfilling its purpose. Dharma is that which manifests as dharma and wisdom is that which manifests as wisdom. This seemingly obvious statement holds great value as, in the present times, it is often seen that in spite of diligent religious practices and in-depth study of the scriptures, there is something missing due to which these practices and knowledge are incapable of annihilating or even slackening ignorance and passions. What should a blind man do to see light? Should he read books on light? Should he study the principles of light? Or should he memorise information about light? Even by doing all of these, will he be able to experience light? Seeking the experience of light through any means other than curing his blindness will be a waste of time and energy. Similarly, the disease of ignorance cannot be cured by some mere thoughts and concepts. Dharma is a remedy, it is not dry philosophy. It is a means to attain inner vision. Dharma – A Revolution Within Dharma, which is actually capable of transforming man, has almost become extinct due to wrong beliefs. Without right knowledge; only a process of thinking and its attractive presentation is misunderstood as dharma. Immature philosophers and ignorant preachers define God, Truth and the Self through their own speculations. They have turned dharma into a bundle of assumptions, and unproductive intellectual exercises. They then put forward arguments to oppose others’ ideas, and enforce rigid instructions, thus contributing to the gradual destruction of dharma. Ignorant of true dharma, they quarrel to uphold false dogmas, leading to disputes and even wars in the name of dharma. The tragedy is that people make judgements based on false hypotheses and then believing them to be the ultimate truth, adhere to them. Rigidity takes the place of steadfastness and gives rise to sectarianism. These add to ignorance and take them further away from the truth. Moreover, they do not even pause to enquire why life has remained so chaotic even after studying scriptures. If this continues, dharma will deteriorate even further. The knowledge of truth must lead to peace, happiness, love, compassion and forbearance bringing one closer to the divinity within. Instead, the so-called dharma and the institutions founded upon it, disconnect man from even his own neighbours, let alone God. Mistaking only bodily activities and scriptural studies as dharma has created much delusion. Instead of gaining solutions to life’s problems and questions, it has created confusion. Such religion will not bring any connection with one’s higher Self. To intellectually know about the Self is entirely different from experiencing it. To experience the True Self, one needs the right vision, which can be gained by an inner transformation alone. The solution does not lie in words but in a revolution within. Transcending the Mind Thinking about the truth is not enough to bring the realisation of truth, because truth is not an object of thoughts, it is an experience. It is attained only in the state of no-mind. Thoughts do not have entry into the truth. They can become a gateway to the experience of truth but truth cannot be attained or experienced by them. This does not mean that one should not think at all or one should stop thinking and have only faith. Remember, dharma does not advise us to fall below the level of thinking to no thinking, but it wants us to rise above thinking. To begin with, thoughts are essential. But for the experience of truth, one will have to transcend even thoughts. Think! However, know its limitations. To know the unknown Self, go beyond thoughts. Those who stop at blind faith have not even begun the journey, and those who get lost in thinking don’t see the end. Only those who can go beyond thinking attain the truth. Get rid of blind faith through right thinking and then transcend the mind too. What remains is consciousness, truth, the Self. That is the real dharma through which one attains self-realisation. Truth is Beyond Words Truth being unknown to the ignorant minds, it has been imagined and assumed by many logicians. They have created a whole new world of dharma through their vain logic. Little do they know that all that can be grasped by the intellect is in the realm of the known while dharma is related to the unknown, the Self. The unknown cannot be known by thoughts. Only when the known dissolves does the unknown manifest. Dharma imparts a vision through which the unknown Self becomes known. Truth is attained in silence. Words are just milestones. They only indicate the direction of truth. They are not the truth. The purpose of words is to convey the importance of truth. They are inert, while the truth is consciousness. Words can only point towards the truth. However, the problem arises when that is forgotten and the indicator is taken as the ultimate experience of the truth. If you yearn for the experience of the truth then you must go beyond the words. The Role of Scriptures The question may arise that if truth cannot be attained through words then what is the role of the scriptures in the pursuit of truth? Also, until this day, if no one has been able to describe truth completely, then how can the study of scriptures benefit the seekers of truth? It is possible that one may have studied many scriptures and yet not moved even an inch towards the truth, whereas one who has known the truth has imbibed the essence of all the scriptures. Therefore, one must clearly understand what can be gained through scriptures and what cannot. It is essential to know that though the scriptures have a purpose and importance, they also have limitations. Scriptures are the expression of the boundless compassion of the Enlightened Ones who have reached the shores of truth and experienced it. They are aware that truth cannot be delivered in words and yet they try to embody their experience in words with the sole purpose of releasing suffering souls from the painful clutches of ignorance. They want every soul to experience what they are experiencing. They know that the scriptures will not bring contentment but are enough to create divine discontentment within. Through words, one must feel the pull towards transcending the words. In ignorance, you take these words as truth. You give more importance to words than the truth itself. Truth and the scriptural words are not contrary to each other. Words are but the photograph of the truth, a shadow of the truth. Just as following the shadow of a man brings one closer to the man, following the scriptures you get an opportunity to come closer to the truth. However by catching hold of the shadow one cannot catch the man, similarly holding on to words cannot give you a hold over truth. You do not realise that attachment for words deprives you of the experience of truth. Only when the attachment to words reduces can you move towards truth. The day you realise the selfless compassion and noble intention of the Great Ones in giving us the scriptures, and also the limitation of words in delivering the truth, scriptures do not remain mere words. Not satisfied with only studying or memorising them, for you they become a source of inspiration, and give rise to a yearning for the experience of truth, a quest for realising something that is extraordinary. This thirst to experience the truth sucks away all the interest in worldliness and begins the inward journey that has to be made by each individual on his own. Truth is in the Self and not in the scriptures or other spiritual practices. They can only give you information about truth, indicate the direction of the truth and facilitate turning within. If this is not realised, these tools can become meaningless or may even prove harmful. Study the scriptures, reflect upon them to comprehend the essence of the truth expounded in them, turn within, and go beyond words to realise the truth experienced by the Enlightened Ones. This is true dharma, a perfect cure for the disease of ignorance. Posts navigation Older postsNewer posts
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Announcements 08-02-2025 Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University (Fri, 21 Feb, 2025): By the boundless grace of Param Krupalu Dev Shrimad Rajchandraji and by the revered hands of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, the auspicious Khaat Muhurat of Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University will take place on Fri, 21 Feb, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth. SRLC’s educational initiatives over the last two decades include Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth, Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, Shrimad Rajchandra Skill Development Centre and Shrimad Rajchandra Education Outreach Programme. A milestone in education care, Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal University aims to uplift rural students, offer new opportunities and become a model of societal progress by providing world-class education with timeless values and 360-degree holistic development under one roof. All are invited to join in celebrating this joyous and significant moment for the Mission. Pujya Gurudevshri’s Presence at the Ashram (Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025): Pujya Gurudevshri will bless the Ashram with His physical presence from Mon, 17 – Thu, 27 Feb, 2025. From Tue, 18 – Thu, 20 Feb, there will be paravartana of Pujya Gurudevshri’s pravachan held in Mumbai on Sat, 8 Feb, 2025. The second shibir of Shri Natak Samaysaar in 2025 – Punya Paap Ekatva Dwar, will be held at the Ashram from Sat, 22 – Sun, 23 Feb, 2025. Pujya Gurudevshri graciously accepting an invitation will perform the Khaat Muhurat of a new Swami Vivekanand Mandir in Dharampur. The head swami of Swaminarayan Haridham Sokhda, Prabodh Sagar Swami, will visit Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram on Wed, 19 Feb, 2025. On Wed, 26 Feb, the auspicious day of Mahashivratri, Pujya Gurudevshri will perform abhishek of a 125-foot tall Shivling on the occasion of 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev sanctifying the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence. Please click here to register for the shibir. Shrimad Rajchandraji Padhramani Ashtahnika Mahotsav (Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025): Celebrating 125 years of Param Krupalu Dev gracing the land of Dharampur with His Divine presence, an eight-day Mahotsav will be celebrated from Sun, 23 – Sun, 30 Mar, 2025 at Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram. Devotees will be blessed with pravachans by Pujya Gurudevshri throughout the Mahotsav. During the last three days, there will also be satsang by various saints from Raj Parivaar. Throughout the Mahotsav, to take various special laabhs and the laabh of Tilak to Pujya Gurudevshri, Arti, Mangal Divo, Chamar, Swamivatsalya, etc. please contact Mission Trustee Premarpit Gautambhai Shah, +91 9821049338; [email protected]. Please click here for more information on the special laabhs or to fill in the laabh application form. Please click here for the detailed schedule and to register. Forthcoming Pravachan: The next pravachan at Yogi Sabhagruh will be held on Fri, 21 Mar, 2025 at 7:30 pm.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Param Krupalu Dev: As a Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s Divine Life is a mine of exemplary qualities. Digging deeper and deeper into His life, we unearth the hidden jewels. Let us view His life from a fresh perspective, marvel at His unmatched virtues and draw inspiration to walk in His footsteps. A lotus, having the beauty and charm of its own, blooms even amidst mud and dirt. Enlightened souls, by the virtue of their inner qualities live an exemplary life, no matter in which circumstances their karmas place them. Param Krupalu Dev’s life is a blazing example of how one can advance uninterrupted towards liberation even if he needs to fulfil worldly duties along the way. Let us look at Param Krupalu Dev’s role as a householder and seek inspiration to live a purposeful life. A Perfect Householder Param Krupalu Dev’s soul-focused studies, reflections and contemplations matured as He grew through His teens and resultantly His detachment towards the material world increased. He harboured a deep desire for renunciation. However, His parents out of their attachment for Him, did not grant Him permission to renounce the world. The twist of fate created by His preordained karmas carried Him to the marriage altar. While He resided in His True abode, never did He neglect His duties of a householder. Like an expert actor who distinctly differentiates his real and reel identity and performs his role to perfection, Param Krupalu Dev too did justice to all his responsibilities. A Supportive Husband From a very young age, Param Krupalu Dev’s views on marriage were extremely mature, respectful and profound. He elaborated upon how to live a married life in a harmonious manner. Param Krupalu Dev tied the knot of marriage with Smt. Jhabakbai at Morbi on Maha Sud 12, V.S. 1944 at the age of twenty. In those times, gender equality was not prevalent, the traditional society was conservative and narrow minded in its approach towards treating one’s wife. During such times, He advocated respect for the wife. After being married for about a year, He had written ‘My Views on Women’, in which He states His heartfelt beliefs in a straightforward manner with crystal clear transparency. He writes: A woman should be taught right conduct. She should be considered an aspirant. One should maintain the relation of a spiritual sister with her. From the depth of the heart, one should not, in any way, discriminate between a mother, a sister and her… As far as possible, speak with her in a language that is free from lust.’ While a newly married youth would be immersed in fulfilling his desires, Param Krupalu Dev’s soul brimmed with dispassion. In V.S.1956, Param Krupalu Dev had expressed that the quantum of attachment that ordinary beings experience for their wife in one day, has not been experienced by Him in His entire lifetime. A Guiding Father Param Krupalu Dev had two sons and two daughters who thought very highly of their father. He loved and guided them. Once, Param Krupalu Dev told His younger daughter Smt. Kashiben that she is not Kashi but a blissful soul thereby sowing the seeds of spirituality in her at a very young age. He fondly used to address His elder son Shri Chhaganbhai as ‘Chhaganshastri’. He left such an impression on His children that in his personal notes, Chhaganbhai highlighted Param Krupalu Dev’s heightened spiritual state by mentioning that it was crystal clear that Param Krupalu Dev’s soul would never ever be seen as a father again. A Sincere Son Right from a very tender age, Param Krupalu Dev performed His duties as a son with utmost sincerity. He ensured His parents’ spiritual well-being and progress by guiding them through subtle yet powerful teachings. He used to often ask Devba whether she would come to moksh. She would ask, what is moksh like? He would reply that I shall take you there. Such was His respect for His parents that His mother Smt. Devba said that she does not recollect Param Krupalu Dev disobeying her even once during His entire lifetime. At the age of 10, Param Krupalu Dev told His mother to whole-heartedly serve her aged and weak in-laws. Around V.S. 1934, the family was undergoing severe financial crisis. Param Krupalu Dev was needed to help His father and He accepted this responsibility. He discontinues His studies and joined His father in business. As a son, He was so concerned about His mother that even on His deathbed, amongst His last few words, was the advice to His brother to take care of His mother. A Caring Brother Param Krupalu Dev’s brother Shri Mansukhbhai was nine years younger to Him and shared a strong bond with Him. Param Krupalu Dev encouraged him to gain quality education. Mansukhbhai had enrolled for English schooling, which was rare during those times. After his matriculation, Param Krupalu Dev engaged him in business. As time passed and His health weakened, Param Krupalu Dev entrusted him with His responsibilities. Mansukhbhai served Him right till His last moments. Truly, this pair of brothers was akin to Shri Ram and Lakshman. Such was Param Krupalu Dev’s perfection in all His duties that none of His relatives had any complaints for Him. Even amidst worldly responsibilities, Param Krupalu Dev’s heart yearned for complete renunciation. This highlights that the best path for liberation is indeed the path of renunciation. However, if that is not possible then Param Krupalu Dev by His own example has shown that one can still strive for spiritual progress while discharging worldly duties. Like a fierce lion that defeats its opponents in their own dens, Param Krupalu Dev defeated delusion, while remaining in the house of delusion itself!
Home Archives for 2025 Page 22 Dharma – Philosophy or Experience? What is dharma? Is it a philosophical exploration of the Truth? Or is it an experience of that which is beyond words and thoughts? Pujya Gurudevshri invites us to examine whether dharma has been correctly understood and is it truly fulfilling its purpose. Dharma is that which manifests as dharma and wisdom is that which manifests as wisdom. This seemingly obvious statement holds great value as, in the present times, it is often seen that in spite of diligent religious practices and in-depth study of the scriptures, there is something missing due to which these practices and knowledge are incapable of annihilating or even slackening ignorance and passions. What should a blind man do to see light? Should he read books on light? Should he study the principles of light? Or should he memorise information about light? Even by doing all of these, will he be able to experience light? Seeking the experience of light through any means other than curing his blindness will be a waste of time and energy. Similarly, the disease of ignorance cannot be cured by some mere thoughts and concepts. Dharma is a remedy, it is not dry philosophy. It is a means to attain inner vision. Dharma – A Revolution Within Dharma, which is actually capable of transforming man, has almost become extinct due to wrong beliefs. Without right knowledge; only a process of thinking and its attractive presentation is misunderstood as dharma. Immature philosophers and ignorant preachers define God, Truth and the Self through their own speculations. They have turned dharma into a bundle of assumptions, and unproductive intellectual exercises. They then put forward arguments to oppose others’ ideas, and enforce rigid instructions, thus contributing to the gradual destruction of dharma. Ignorant of true dharma, they quarrel to uphold false dogmas, leading to disputes and even wars in the name of dharma. The tragedy is that people make judgements based on false hypotheses and then believing them to be the ultimate truth, adhere to them. Rigidity takes the place of steadfastness and gives rise to sectarianism. These add to ignorance and take them further away from the truth. Moreover, they do not even pause to enquire why life has remained so chaotic even after studying scriptures. If this continues, dharma will deteriorate even further. The knowledge of truth must lead to peace, happiness, love, compassion and forbearance bringing one closer to the divinity within. Instead, the so-called dharma and the institutions founded upon it, disconnect man from even his own neighbours, let alone God. Mistaking only bodily activities and scriptural studies as dharma has created much delusion. Instead of gaining solutions to life’s problems and questions, it has created confusion. Such religion will not bring any connection with one’s higher Self. To intellectually know about the Self is entirely different from experiencing it. To experience the True Self, one needs the right vision, which can be gained by an inner transformation alone. The solution does not lie in words but in a revolution within. Transcending the Mind Thinking about the truth is not enough to bring the realisation of truth, because truth is not an object of thoughts, it is an experience. It is attained only in the state of no-mind. Thoughts do not have entry into the truth. They can become a gateway to the experience of truth but truth cannot be attained or experienced by them. This does not mean that one should not think at all or one should stop thinking and have only faith. Remember, dharma does not advise us to fall below the level of thinking to no thinking, but it wants us to rise above thinking. To begin with, thoughts are essential. But for the experience of truth, one will have to transcend even thoughts. Think! However, know its limitations. To know the unknown Self, go beyond thoughts. Those who stop at blind faith have not even begun the journey, and those who get lost in thinking don’t see the end. Only those who can go beyond thinking attain the truth. Get rid of blind faith through right thinking and then transcend the mind too. What remains is consciousness, truth, the Self. That is the real dharma through which one attains self-realisation. Truth is Beyond Words Truth being unknown to the ignorant minds, it has been imagined and assumed by many logicians. They have created a whole new world of dharma through their vain logic. Little do they know that all that can be grasped by the intellect is in the realm of the known while dharma is related to the unknown, the Self. The unknown cannot be known by thoughts. Only when the known dissolves does the unknown manifest. Dharma imparts a vision through which the unknown Self becomes known. Truth is attained in silence. Words are just milestones. They only indicate the direction of truth. They are not the truth. The purpose of words is to convey the importance of truth. They are inert, while the truth is consciousness. Words can only point towards the truth. However, the problem arises when that is forgotten and the indicator is taken as the ultimate experience of the truth. If you yearn for the experience of the truth then you must go beyond the words. The Role of Scriptures The question may arise that if truth cannot be attained through words then what is the role of the scriptures in the pursuit of truth? Also, until this day, if no one has been able to describe truth completely, then how can the study of scriptures benefit the seekers of truth? It is possible that one may have studied many scriptures and yet not moved even an inch towards the truth, whereas one who has known the truth has imbibed the essence of all the scriptures. Therefore, one must clearly understand what can be gained through scriptures and what cannot. It is essential to know that though the scriptures have a purpose and importance, they also have limitations. Scriptures are the expression of the boundless compassion of the Enlightened Ones who have reached the shores of truth and experienced it. They are aware that truth cannot be delivered in words and yet they try to embody their experience in words with the sole purpose of releasing suffering souls from the painful clutches of ignorance. They want every soul to experience what they are experiencing. They know that the scriptures will not bring contentment but are enough to create divine discontentment within. Through words, one must feel the pull towards transcending the words. In ignorance, you take these words as truth. You give more importance to words than the truth itself. Truth and the scriptural words are not contrary to each other. Words are but the photograph of the truth, a shadow of the truth. Just as following the shadow of a man brings one closer to the man, following the scriptures you get an opportunity to come closer to the truth. However by catching hold of the shadow one cannot catch the man, similarly holding on to words cannot give you a hold over truth. You do not realise that attachment for words deprives you of the experience of truth. Only when the attachment to words reduces can you move towards truth. The day you realise the selfless compassion and noble intention of the Great Ones in giving us the scriptures, and also the limitation of words in delivering the truth, scriptures do not remain mere words. Not satisfied with only studying or memorising them, for you they become a source of inspiration, and give rise to a yearning for the experience of truth, a quest for realising something that is extraordinary. This thirst to experience the truth sucks away all the interest in worldliness and begins the inward journey that has to be made by each individual on his own. Truth is in the Self and not in the scriptures or other spiritual practices. They can only give you information about truth, indicate the direction of the truth and facilitate turning within. If this is not realised, these tools can become meaningless or may even prove harmful. Study the scriptures, reflect upon them to comprehend the essence of the truth expounded in them, turn within, and go beyond words to realise the truth experienced by the Enlightened Ones. This is true dharma, a perfect cure for the disease of ignorance. Posts navigation Older postsNewer posts
