Author: BAPS Volunteers
True Greatness Lies in Humility: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
They say the truest measure of a person is not in how high they rise, but in how deeply they serve. On November 5th, 2016, in the spiritual town of Gondal, Gujarat, Mahant Swami Maharaj once again exemplified what it means to lead with humility. After completing his morning puja, Swamishri made his way to the Sant Ashram. The air was calm, filled with the quiet reverence that often follows him. Amidst the morning stillness, a cheerful devotee stepped forward. Full of enthusiasm and pride, he introduced himself:“Swami, I am Shri Krishna Pandya. I have received the Best Teacher Presidential [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Your life is wasting away, without worship…
Life often feels like a relentless pursuit of desires and fleeting pleasures. We get so absorbed in the superficial glitter of the world that we fail to acknowledge the deeper reality of our existence. Brahmanand Swami’s bhajan powerfully reveals this truth and offers a sobering reminder of the ignorance that clouds our vision. As we journey through life, we remain trapped in illusions, foolishly believing that worldly pleasures will bring us lasting happiness. Yet, as Brahmanand Swami points out, death approaches relentlessly, a truth we choose to ignore. This ignorance blinds us to the higher purpose of life, leading us [Read More…]
The Power of Forgiveness: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
Forgiveness is a strength, not a weakness. The life of Nelson Mandela exemplifies this truth. Despite enduring 27 years of imprisonment, facing relentless suffering and harsh conditions, Mandela emerged from captivity not with anger, but with an incredible sense of forgiveness. As he once said, “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.” Mandela’s release and subsequent rise to power as South Africa’s first black president was not just a political victory; it was a triumph of [Read More…]
The True Meaning of Giving: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
The truest measure of greatness is humility. This powerful principle was brought to life on May 14th, 2019, during a Diksha ceremony in Surat. The occasion was significant, but what made it truly remarkable was a simple yet profound act of reverence by Mahant Swami Maharaj, offering a lesson in humility that continues to resonate. During the ceremony, the Santos presented Swamishri with a very unique shawl. This was no ordinary shawl; it was adorned with the images of all the students from the training assembly. As the Santos prepared to drape Swamishri with this special shawl, he immediately stopped [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Worshipping Hari brings true joy, understand O mind…
True love for God is not just an ideal to be spoken of; it is a reality that blossoms in the presence of a soul who has transcended the illusions of this world. The saint who has realized the divine does not merely guide; he transforms. His presence alone ignites the flame of pure love for God within the hearts of those who seek truth. It is this pure love that dispels delusions no other could conquer, lifting the veil of ignorance that binds us to fleeting desires and falsehoods. Compassion is the truest mark of the divine. A soul [Read More…]
God’s Compassion: Lessons from Gunatitanand Swami
“God does not look at the faults of the Jivas. If a Jiva prays to God and says, ‘I am at fault’, then God forgives him of his flaws.” Swamini Vat Section 1, Number 77. In life, we all make mistakes. As human beings (Jivas), we are bound to have flaws, yet God does not judge us solely based on them. Instead, His love is infinite, and His grace is ever-present. When we sincerely acknowledge our faults and turn to God in prayer, He does not turn us away. Instead, He embraces us with compassion, forgives our shortcomings, and gives us the [Read More…]
The True Meaning of Giving: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
October 5th, 2016, Nadiad, Gujarat. As Mahant Swami Maharaj walked toward the morning aarti, the joyful voices of hostel students filled the air—“Narayan Hare Sachidanand Prabhu!” This ancient chant carries deep tradition, often heard during Makar Sankranti, when those in need humbly ask for alms. But that morning, the students playfully directed it toward Swamishri, asking, “Swamishri, what will you give us?” With a gentle smile, he replied, “My whole self.” Simple words, yet deeply profound. A guru is more than just a teacher—he is a living example of sacrifice. Not the kind of sacrifice where one simply gives something [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: The Sant is the Greatest Benefactor, in this World……
True love for God is not born out of mere words but from the presence of a soul who has realized the divine. When such a saint walks among us, he does not simply guide—he transforms. The weight of delusion, which binds us to fleeting desires and falsehoods, is lifted by his wisdom. His words do not just teach; they awaken. He is the beacon that reveals the truth hidden beneath the illusions of this world. Compassion is the mark of the divine. A true saint does not see differences—his mercy flows to all, embracing every soul in its warmth. [Read More…]
Speak Courageously: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
The power of words is undeniable. They can uplift or tear down, inspire or discourage. But true courage in speech isn’t about volume—it’s about belief. The belief that every person has infinite potential to grow, evolve, and become better. Speaking courageously means using our words to encourage, motivate, and ignite hope—both in ourselves and in those around us. It’s about fostering resilience, pushing forward despite challenges, and refusing to let negativity dictate our reality. On the other hand, cowardice in speech doesn’t mean speaking softly; it’s speaking in a way that demotivates, drains energy, and spreads hopelessness. It’s the voice [Read More…]
A Lesson in Selfless Service: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
Picture yourself cruising on a plane, thousands of feet above the ground. The air is cold, the journey feels long, and comfort becomes a priority. But for Mahant Swami Maharaj, every moment is an opportunity to serve. Before leaving India, a devotee made a simple request—“When you’re away, will you remember us? Maybe write us a letter?” It was casual, but for Mahant Swami Maharaj, it was important. Hours later, high above the clouds, he picked up a pen and paper. But the plane was freezing, and soon his fingers became stiff. Writing became painful, and his assistant gently suggested [Read More…]