On October 5, 2016, in Nadiad, Gujarat, a simple exchange during an ordinary morning revealed an extraordinary spiritual truth. As Mahant Swami Maharaj walked toward the morning aarti, the air echoed with the joyful voices of hostel students chanting:
“Narayan Hare Sachidanand Prabhu!”
It was playful, devotional, and full of innocence. And then came the question—half in fun, half in faith:
“Swamishri, what will you give us?”
His answer was instant. Gentle. Unassuming.
“My whole self.”
In those three words lay a lifetime of spirituality.
A Chant That Became a Question
From Tradition to Tenderness
The chant the students sang has deep roots. Traditionally heard during Makar Sankranti, it is sung by those who humbly seek alms. That morning, however, it was not material help they were asking for—it was a moment of connection.
What they received in return was not a donation, a blessing alone, or a symbolic gesture—but something far greater.
“My whole self.”
Not part. Not conditionally. Not when convenient.
Everything.
What It Truly Means to Give
Beyond Material Sacrifice
We often think of sacrifice as giving something up—comfort, time, or possessions. But Mahant Swami Maharaj’s reply points to a deeper truth: the highest sacrifice is self-giving.
A true guru does not merely teach principles—he embodies them.
“A guru is not one who gives things, but one who gives himself.”
Swamishri’s life reflects this continuously. His giving is not measured in material terms, but in presence, patience, compassion, and unwavering care for others.
Living the Words, Not Just Speaking Them
These were not poetic words spoken for effect. They were a quiet summary of how Swamishri lives:
- Giving time without counting hours
- Giving attention without distraction
- Giving love without expectation
Every day, every interaction, every journey—his life has been an offering.
A Mirror for Our Own Lives
What Does It Mean for Us to Give?
Swamishri’s response gently turns the question back toward us.
“How can we give?”
Not just money. Not just objects. But:
- Our time, when it’s inconvenient
- Our kindness, when it’s undeserved
- Our attention, when we’re tired
- Our care, when no one is watching
“True giving begins where comfort ends.”
Small Offerings, Deep Impact
We may not be saints or gurus, but we can still practice the same spirit of seva. A listening ear. A forgiving heart. A moment of genuine concern. These are offerings that change lives.
Conclusion: Learning to Give Our Whole Self
That morning in Nadiad passed quietly. No grand announcement followed. No applause echoed. Yet a timeless lesson was given—one that continues to resonate.
“My whole self.”
In those words, Mahant Swami Maharaj reminded us that the purest form of love is not partial, not reserved, not transactional.
It is total.
May we learn from this spirit of giving.
May we offer more than what we have—and begin offering who we are.
And may our lives, in small but sincere ways, become acts of selfless giving too.
To know more about Mahant Swami Maharaj: https://www.baps.org/About-BAPS/TheFounder%E2%80%93BhagwanSwaminarayan/TheSpiritualLineage-TheGuruParampara/Mahant-Swami-Maharaj.aspx
Mahant Swami Maharaj: An Introductory Film on the Spiritual Leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7s1OeBc3lHw&t=9s
BAPS Website: https://www.baps.org/
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