Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Patrank – 913 Dharampur, Chaitra Vad 4, Wednesday, 1956 Received your letter. The state of tranquillity prevails here. Suddenly, physical discomfort has arisen and that is being experienced with calmness; this was known to me, and so there was satisfaction. All worldly beings, driven by karma, constantly keep experiencing manifestation of comfort-discomfort. Of them, mostly, the manifestation of discomfort alone is experienced. Sometimes or in association with some body, manifestation of comfort appears to be experienced more; but in reality, even there, the inner blaze alone is burning. The discomfort that even the omniscient one does not have words that can describe it, this soul has experienced such infinite infinite discomfort; and even now, if its causes are not destroyed, it will continue to experience, that is certain. Having known this, the thoughtful excellent men, became eager to seek the path that would permanently relinquish the inner blaze-like comfort and inner outer burning fire-like suffering of discomfort. And having sought that right path, having faith in it, having practiced it correctly, became absorbed in the innate, pure-natured supreme state of the self that is of the nature of unobstructed happiness. The great ones who sought the root causes of the manifestation or experience of comfort-discomfort, such extraordinary, joyfully astonishing inclination would arise in them, that more than comfort, if there was manifestation of discomfort, and that too, when it manifested with greater intensity, their vigour would awaken more, would gain zealousness, and that time would appear greatly beneficial. For some special reasons, they would take the medicines etc., appropriate for consumption from the practical point of view, remaining in self-discipline. But mostly, they would practice that supreme calmness alone as the best medication. Mastering the view of seeing the self, that is eternally radiant due to its characteristic of consciousness, as separate from the physical body, energy body and karmic body; that self of the inherent nature of consciousness, due to continuously being of the nature to feel, until it attains the state of no bondage, it cannot remain without feeling the experiences of comfort and discomfort, determining thus; by becoming detached towards that flow of good and bad inclinations, the inclination that creates relationship with comfort-discomfort; by accepting the right path of completely giving up that flow of inclinations which is unsteady by nature, occurring in that self which is separate from the body etc. and remains in the limit of its own nature; that illuminating self which is of the nature of supremely pure consciousness, withdrawing from those inclinations with impurities caused due to association with karma; the way by which one can become calm, become steady in that awareness and in that self, become steadfast; only that focus, only that contemplation, only that reflection and only that natural state of being is worth bringing forth. That alone is the repeated counsel of the great ones. For the aspirants who are seeking that right path, desiring to have faith in it, desiring to attain it, till the right path is fully accomplished, it is necessary to worship with supreme devotion the supremely dispassionate God; the Guru who is devout to the self, free from desires, and free from the knots of ignorance; the religious conduct rooted in supreme compassion, and the scriptures expounding supremely peaceful essence through mystical statements; which are the supreme causes for one’s welfare. Here, I end this letter by quoting a verse I recall. Bheesan narayagaiye, tiriyagaiye kudevmanuyagaiye; Pattosi tivv dukham, bhaavhi Jinbhaavna jeev. In the frightening hell, in animal form, and unfavourable celestial and human form of life, O soul! You underwent immense suffering, so at least now, contemplate-reflect on the Jina bhaavna (the supreme peaceful reflection that the Jina Bhagwan abided in the self as supreme peaceful essence) (so that such infinite sufferings are completely relinquished and supreme, unobstructed wealth of happiness is attained.) Aum Peace Peace Peace
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Children’s Camp at the Ashram Celebrating 125 Years of Param Krupalu Dev’s Grace in Dharampur, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission organized a vibrant Children’s Camp for children aged 4 to 12, receiving an overwhelming 1191 registrations from Dharampur town. For many, it was their first camp experience. The day began with an Ashram Tour, where children took a delightful buggy ride to the Jin Mandir, offered prayers, and admired the magnificent Raj Sabhagruh. A self-development session instilled valuable life lessons, followed by refreshing snacks. Excitement soared at the carnival at LEA, where the little ones enjoyed a 3D Kaleidoscope experience, Pokémon interactions, tattoo art, thumbprint activities, and more! The event also sparked a keen interest in Divinetouch classes, with many parents expressing gratitude and requesting such events every year. The day ended with a joyous family carnival, where parents joined in the fun, creating cherished memories with their children.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Empowering Future Careers Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul, in association with the District Education Office, Valsad and Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, recently organised a Skill Competition under the Vocational Education programme. The event was attended by several dignitaries including Shri Arvind Patel – MLA, Dharampur; Dr Rajeshri Tandel – District Education Officer, Valsad and Shri D.B. Vasava – District Primary Education Officer. The event served as a significant platform for students to present innovative projects created using various vocational skills that they have acquired through different trade-based training programmes. Over 1,000 students participated with great enthusiasm, proudly demonstrating their creativity, technical expertise, and practical applications of vocational learning. This collaborative initiative reflects Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul’s commitment to holistic education – equipping students not only with academic knowledge but also practical skills that empower them for self-reliance and professional success.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Fostering Research Excellence At Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth, research is more than an academic pursuit – it is a culture deeply embedded in the institution’s ethos. One shining example of this commitment is Dr Dehin Bhagat, Assistant Professor in Microbiology at the college. Dr Bhagat has received a prestigious research grant from the University Grants Commission Cell at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) to support his study on ‘Halophilic Bacterial Diversity in South Gujarat Ecosystems.’ This research aims to uncover the richness of marine bacterial diversity and enzyme profiles while providing valuable insights into microbial adaptation in extreme environments. Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth encourages its faculty members to pursue multi-disciplinary research while also fostering a nurturing environment for its students to actively engage in scientific exploration. Currently, the college has 10 PhD-approved research guides under VNSGU, who are mentoring students in their research journeys. One such student is Tushar Sharma, an M.Sc. Microbiology student under Dr Bhagat’s guidance. Tushar has embarked on an innovative research project to create “Reusable Menstrual Products” that are affordable, eco-friendly, anti-microbial, and highly absorbent. Recognising the potential impact of this project for improving the lives of women, the Government of Gujarat, under its Student Startup & Innovation Policy, awarded him a grant of Rs 2.20 lakhs after a rigorous selection process. These success stories underline Shrimad Rajchandra Vidyapeeth’s unwavering support for scientific innovation, inspiring students and faculty to become pioneers in research that benefits both society and the environment.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 A Prestigious State-level Science Exhibition Shrimad Rajchandra Gurukul hosted the 52nd State Level Children Science Exhibition, themed ‘Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future’, jointly organised with Gujarat Council of Educational Research and Training (GCERT) and District Institute of Engineering and Training (DIET), Valsad. The event marked a milestone as Valsad hosted the state-level exhibition for the first time, which was attended by over 20,000 students. The event was inaugurated by Dr Kuber Dindor – Minister for Tribal Development, Primary, Secondary, and Adult Education, Government of Gujarat, along with other dignitaries including Shri Arvind Patel – MLA, Dharampur; Shri Jitu Chaudhari – MLA, Kaprada; Shri Prakash Trivedi – Director, GCERT; Shri Manhar Patel – Valsad District Panchayat President; Shri Piyush Mahla – Taluka Panchayat President; Shri Atirag Chaplot – District Development Officer; Shri Jayesh Patel – Deputy Director of the Commissioner’s Office for Schools; Shri Mahendra Patel – Principal, DIET; Dr Rajeshri Tandel – District Education Officer, Valsad and Shri D.B. Vasava – District Primary Education Officer. Students from across Gujarat showcased over 100 projects, addressing areas like food, health, and sanitation; transport and communication; natural farming; mathematical models and computational thinking; disaster management; waste management and research innovation. The event also honoured outstanding project presenters with trophies and certificates. In his speech, Dr Kuber Dindor praised the exhibition for nurturing scientific thinking and applauded Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur for its contribution to education and society. The exhibition concluded on an inspiring note, encouraging young minds to pursue scientific inquiry and innovation for a sustainable future.
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Hridayarpit – Sarvarpit Shibir 2025 With hearts ablaze in anticipation, Hridayarpits and Sarvarpits joyously received their Master for a sublime four-day getaway from March 13 to 16. Themed “Prem ke rang, Atmarasi ke sang”, it was a sacred convergence where grace streamed boundlessly, wisdom kindled inner awakenings, and love embraced every yearning soul. Astounding AgraMarch 13–15 Pujya Gurudevshri arrived in Agra with the Hridayarpit and Sarvarpit group members, stepping into a city where history breathes through its monuments, weaving tales of love, grandeur, and legacy. Agra stands as the proud custodian of one of the world’s greatest wonders, the Taj Mahal – an splendid emblem of love that transcends time. In this land of magnificence, seekers embarked on a deeper pilgrimage; not to merely admire monuments carved in stone, but to adorn the shrine of devotion within. The lovers of the Divine, alongwith their beloved Master, attended ‘Mohabbat The Taj’ show at the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre. This captivating theatrical production, a seamless fusion of dance, drama, and music, exquisitely brought to life the immortal love story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, unfolding their tale with artistic brilliance. The Taj Mahal, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, stands as a magnificent testament to love and unparalleled craftsmanship. Pujya Gurudevshri and the group embarked on a guided exploration of this breathtaking marvel, also witnessing its ethereal beauty bathed in moonlight. Hridayarpits and Sarvarpits also shared special moments with the Master at Fatehpur Sikri. At the Dargah of Hazrat Salim Chishti, the group dissolved in heartfelt bhakti, their hearts and voices resonating with devotion in the sacred space. A deeply inspiring Udghosh on the art of sweetening relationships was bestowed by Pujya Gurudevshri. He guided them with the skills of celebrating life and living to the fullest. The celebrations by the devotees were infused with enthusiasm – spirited dances, heartfelt experiences shared by Hridayarpits Nirav-Namita Gosalia and Sarvarpit Shilpa Gandhi, and captivating skits; including one on Shri Atmarasi Banarasidasji’s transformative journey towards becoming the author of the profound spiritual text Shri Natak Samaysaar. To pay homage to this timeless masterpiece, Pujya Gurudevshri visited Shri Natak Samaysaar Rachnasthal, where seekers beheld the original manuscript alongside its Farsi-Arabi-Pashto translation, written for Shri Atmarasi Banarasidasji’s friend Emperor Shah Jahan. A spirited session of bhakti followed, filling the air with devotion. The Hridayarpit and Sarvarpit group members were further blessed to celebrate Holi in the divine presence of their Master. The morning began with an insightful session by Atmarpit Nemiji, unravelling the traits of a true seeker. The celebration commenced with an idol of Param Krupalu Dev being adorned with a turban and khes, followed by Pujya Gurudevshri’s pujan of His sacred charankamal. Representing all, Atmarpit Nemiji gently applied colour to the Master. Pujya Gurudevshri then stepped into the gathering, personally anointing each devotee with a tilak and colouring them in varied hues. Waves of joy rippled through the atmosphere as seekers danced in ecstasy, embraced by their Master’s love, drenched in divine shades, and immersed in the essence of true celebration. Vibrant VrindavanMarch 16 Vrindavan, a land where devotion lives and breathes, and every corner resonates the eternal love of Lord Krishna and Radha, has been a sanctuary for devotees for millennia. Pujya Gurudevshri arrived at Vrindavan with Hridayarpits and Sarvarpits; the Master hand-holding them into a world steeped in devotion. During His visit, Pujya Gurudevshri graced Prem Mandir, a magnificent landmark built in 2012. This architectural marvel, adorned with intricate carvings and life-sized depictions of Lord Krishna’s leelas, stands as a beacon of devotion, drawing countless seekers from across the world. The Master was lovingly offered a khes and a book at the temple. The sacred journey continued with a serene boat ride on the Yamuna river, where, under the vast expanse of the Vrindavan sky, the Master and devotees chanted the holy name of the Lord. With each ripple in the holy waters, it felt as if the very soul of Vrindavan rejoiced, carrying their prayers forth in its timeless flow. Mesmerising MathuraMarch 16 Mathura, the sacred land where Lord Krishna took birth, is revered as the heart of Braj. Pujya Gurudevshri and the group visited Shri Jambuswami Nirvan Sthal, where He was warmly welcomed by the temple trustees with a khes and mala. Ascending to the main mandir, Pujya Gurudevshri offered reverence at the lotus feet of Shri Ajitnath Bhagwan. In this spiritually-charged atmosphere, the group immersed themselves in soulful bhakti. As the yatra drew to a close, Pujya Gurudevshri addressed the seekers one final time, bestowing His blessings upon them – to journey beyond the external, discover the boundless inner realms, and find eternal refuge within. Dearest Gurudev, Through Agra’s wonders, Mathura’s light, Vrindavan’s love so pure and bright. In sacred lands, Your grace did flow, A journey deep, where spirits glow. Sings so Yamuna’s waves, and bhakti songs, To You, dear Master, we belong. In every step, in every view, Our hearts are forever drenched in love for You. Indebted to You forever, Your Hridayarpits and Sarvarpits
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Face Your Enemy Face your enemy with the tool of detached observation and see the challenger leave. A sure-cure practice for a calm, content and competent mind Step 1What Takes up Your Energy It can be very easy to discover what your chief attribute is: Just watch your mind for some days – and see what takes up most of your energy, your time and daydreams. You could keep a journal and note things down. Is it jealousy? Desire for money? Ego? Anxiety for the future? That is your number one enemy. Different people will uncover different things; hatred, anger or even repressed sexuality – anything. Discovering what it is, is almost half the battle won. And only you can find out, for yourself. Step 2Don’t React when Enemy Attacks Now, be completely aware of this. When the enemy attacks, don’t respond. Remain calm and collected. Watch it as if something is passing on the screen. If you stay detached, all of a sudden a huge energy will be liberated that was controlled by your enemy. You will feel charged, revitalised: your whole being suddenly turns anew. Step 3Look Out for Other Enemies Repeat the above steps. Start looking for enemy number two and three. The day you don’t have any enemy within – you have the grace, strength and splendour that blossoms in a thousand flowers. Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Sharnarpit Shibir 2025 The Sharnarpit Group Shibir, celebrated between March 9 and 12, was a sacred confluence of wisdom, grace, and boundless love. Every moment overflowed with joy and gratitude due to the Master’s divine presence. Gallant GwaliorMarch 9 Gwalior is a city where history breathes, music flows, and culture thrives. Crowned by its formidable fort, this land has witnessed the presence of saints, poets, and warriors alike. While in Gwalior Pujya Gurudevshri visited the fort with the Sharnarpit Group members. The fort dominates the city and is its most significant monument. A steep road winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues of Tirthankar Bhagwans, carved into the rock face. The magnificent outer walls of the fort, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bear witness to its reputation of being one of the most invincible forts of India. After spending informal moments with the Master, the group sat through an informative and interesting light and sound show that brought to life the fort’s ancient glory. The evening culminated with a soulful bhakti with Pujya Gurudevshri. While in Gwalior, the Master also visited the Tomb of Tansen – a legendary musician and one of the nine gems of Emperor Akbar’s court. The next morning the entourage visited the pious Shri Sonagiri Tirth with Pujya Gurudevshri. Sonagiri, meaning ‘Golden Mountain’, is a significant Jain pilgrimage site in the Datia district of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its numerous temples, including those dedicated to Shri Chandraprabhu Bhagwan. It is also considered a sacred place which has witnessed the Lord’s holy assembly – the Samavasaran 17 times and from where five-and-a-half crore Jain ascetics attained liberation. With the beloved Master in their midst, the Sharnarpit Group immersed in a pulsating bhakti. The Master then visited Kundkund Nagar in Sonagiri and consecrated a chitrapat of Param Krupalu Dev and a copy of Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut in the newly constructed Swadhyay Hall. The Trustees lovingly felicitated Pujya Gurudevshri and the audience was blessed with a message by the Master. Joyous Jhansi March 10 Jhansi, a land where valour is immortalised, stands as a beacon of fearlessness. It is etched with the indomitable spirit of Rani Lakshmibai, who rode into battle not just with a sword, but with unwavering determination that defied an empire. In the devout presence of Pujya Gurudevshri, Jhansi bore witness to a different kind of revolution; one waged not on battlefields, but within. Here, seekers stood as warriors of the soul, confronting inner limitations, striving for self-purification, and surrendering unto the Divine. Amidst the towering grandeur of the Jhansi Fort, history intertwined with the present in moments of informal joy. Laughter danced through the ancient ramparts as the Master’s grace transformed interactions into cherished memories. As night fell, the fort was bathed in a luminous glow and the light and sound show breathed life into its glorious past. Through vibrant narration and striking illumination, the saga of courage and sacrifice unfolded before the audience’s eyes, making them feel as if history occurred just yesterday. Ornate OrchhaMarch 11–12 In the final leg of the Sharnarpit Shibir, Pujya Gurudevshri arrived in the historic town of Orchha. Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Orchha draws visitors from around the world due to its blend of cultural heritage and natural splendour. The Shibir reached its crescendo as Pujya Gurudevshri bestowed upon the group a transformative discourse – one that would deepen connections and redefine relationships. The discourse was a revolution in thought, a blueprint for harmonious living, and a wake-up call to infuse every bond with the sweetness of selflessness and love. With the Orchha Fort as the backdrop, the Master spent joyous, informal moments with the group. Devotion found expression through the rhythm of dance dedications and the air was filled with gratitude. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the evening celebrations unfolded – a stirring confluence of powerful performances and heartfelt experiences. The Sharnarpit Group put together an immersive skit on Rani Lakshmibai, bringing history to life with a portrayal of her courage and unyielding spirit. Moments of emotional sharing followed as Sharnarpits Bhavesh-Kavita Shah and Sharnarpits Dharmesh-Jigna Mehta opened their hearts, reflecting on their spiritual journey with the beloved Master. Their words touched each soul present, leaving everyone inspired to walk their own path of surrender with greater conviction. The Sharnarpit Shibir concluded with joyous Holi celebrations. The morning began with a session by Atmarpit Nemiji, illuminating virtues that a devotee must develop, setting the tone for a day of devotion and festivity. As Pujya Gurudevshri arrived, hearts swelled with devotion. The sacred festivities commenced with the pujan of Param Krupalu Dev’s charankamal, as Pujya Gurudevshri gently adorned them with vibrant Holi colours. The air resonated with soul-stirring bhajans, and as colours flew from the Master’s hands, seekers found themselves immersed not just in hues but in His grace and compassion. It was a phenomenal experience – a Holi where the soul, once touched, remained forever coloured in love, faith, and surrendership! Dear Gurudev, With hearts brimming with gratitude, we bow at Your lotus feet. Through every step in Gwalior, Jhansi, and Orchha, You filled our souls with love divine. You coloured our being in devotion, leaving an imprint that time cannot fade. May we forever walk in Your light, serve with surrender, and remain drenched in the hues of Your love and purity. In Your eternal refuge, Your Sharnarpits Posts navigation Older postsNewer posts
Home Archives for 2025 Page 18 Sharnarpit Shibir 2025 The Sharnarpit Group Shibir, celebrated between March 9 and 12, was a sacred confluence of wisdom, grace, and boundless love. Every moment overflowed with joy and gratitude due to the Master’s divine presence. Gallant GwaliorMarch 9 Gwalior is a city where history breathes, music flows, and culture thrives. Crowned by its formidable fort, this land has witnessed the presence of saints, poets, and warriors alike. While in Gwalior Pujya Gurudevshri visited the fort with the Sharnarpit Group members. The fort dominates the city and is its most significant monument. A steep road winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues of Tirthankar Bhagwans, carved into the rock face. The magnificent outer walls of the fort, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bear witness to its reputation of being one of the most invincible forts of India. After spending informal moments with the Master, the group sat through an informative and interesting light and sound show that brought to life the fort’s ancient glory. The evening culminated with a soulful bhakti with Pujya Gurudevshri. While in Gwalior, the Master also visited the Tomb of Tansen – a legendary musician and one of the nine gems of Emperor Akbar’s court. The next morning the entourage visited the pious Shri Sonagiri Tirth with Pujya Gurudevshri. Sonagiri, meaning ‘Golden Mountain’, is a significant Jain pilgrimage site in the Datia district of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its numerous temples, including those dedicated to Shri Chandraprabhu Bhagwan. It is also considered a sacred place which has witnessed the Lord’s holy assembly – the Samavasaran 17 times and from where five-and-a-half crore Jain ascetics attained liberation. With the beloved Master in their midst, the Sharnarpit Group immersed in a pulsating bhakti. The Master then visited Kundkund Nagar in Sonagiri and consecrated a chitrapat of Param Krupalu Dev and a copy of Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut in the newly constructed Swadhyay Hall. The Trustees lovingly felicitated Pujya Gurudevshri and the audience was blessed with a message by the Master. Joyous Jhansi March 10 Jhansi, a land where valour is immortalised, stands as a beacon of fearlessness. It is etched with the indomitable spirit of Rani Lakshmibai, who rode into battle not just with a sword, but with unwavering determination that defied an empire. In the devout presence of Pujya Gurudevshri, Jhansi bore witness to a different kind of revolution; one waged not on battlefields, but within. Here, seekers stood as warriors of the soul, confronting inner limitations, striving for self-purification, and surrendering unto the Divine. Amidst the towering grandeur of the Jhansi Fort, history intertwined with the present in moments of informal joy. Laughter danced through the ancient ramparts as the Master’s grace transformed interactions into cherished memories. As night fell, the fort was bathed in a luminous glow and the light and sound show breathed life into its glorious past. Through vibrant narration and striking illumination, the saga of courage and sacrifice unfolded before the audience’s eyes, making them feel as if history occurred just yesterday. Ornate OrchhaMarch 11–12 In the final leg of the Sharnarpit Shibir, Pujya Gurudevshri arrived in the historic town of Orchha. Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Orchha draws visitors from around the world due to its blend of cultural heritage and natural splendour. The Shibir reached its crescendo as Pujya Gurudevshri bestowed upon the group a transformative discourse – one that would deepen connections and redefine relationships. The discourse was a revolution in thought, a blueprint for harmonious living, and a wake-up call to infuse every bond with the sweetness of selflessness and love. With the Orchha Fort as the backdrop, the Master spent joyous, informal moments with the group. Devotion found expression through the rhythm of dance dedications and the air was filled with gratitude. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the evening celebrations unfolded – a stirring confluence of powerful performances and heartfelt experiences. The Sharnarpit Group put together an immersive skit on Rani Lakshmibai, bringing history to life with a portrayal of her courage and unyielding spirit. Moments of emotional sharing followed as Sharnarpits Bhavesh-Kavita Shah and Sharnarpits Dharmesh-Jigna Mehta opened their hearts, reflecting on their spiritual journey with the beloved Master. Their words touched each soul present, leaving everyone inspired to walk their own path of surrender with greater conviction. The Sharnarpit Shibir concluded with joyous Holi celebrations. The morning began with a session by Atmarpit Nemiji, illuminating virtues that a devotee must develop, setting the tone for a day of devotion and festivity. As Pujya Gurudevshri arrived, hearts swelled with devotion. The sacred festivities commenced with the pujan of Param Krupalu Dev’s charankamal, as Pujya Gurudevshri gently adorned them with vibrant Holi colours. The air resonated with soul-stirring bhajans, and as colours flew from the Master’s hands, seekers found themselves immersed not just in hues but in His grace and compassion. It was a phenomenal experience – a Holi where the soul, once touched, remained forever coloured in love, faith, and surrendership! Dear Gurudev, With hearts brimming with gratitude, we bow at Your lotus feet. Through every step in Gwalior, Jhansi, and Orchha, You filled our souls with love divine. You coloured our being in devotion, leaving an imprint that time cannot fade. May we forever walk in Your light, serve with surrender, and remain drenched in the hues of Your love and purity. In Your eternal refuge, Your Sharnarpits