Tag: Mahant Swami Maharaj
Beyond Words, Beyond Time: Meeting Mahant Swami Maharaj
Humans are driven by feelings. Long after words have faded, after moments have passed, what lingers is how we felt—how someone made us feel. This is not an account of events. It is not a collection of stories or incidents. This is something far more delicate, far more elusive. This is a reflection on a feeling. A humble, feeble attempt to put into words what can only truly be experienced by the heart. Not just any feeling, but the feeling of meeting Mahant Swami Maharaj. Before you read further, I invite you to pause the whirlwind of your life. Detach [Read More…]
A Lesson of Love and Respect: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On the evening of October 9, 2016, in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, the sun had dipped low, casting soft golden hues over the BAPS campus. The air was calm, the atmosphere reverent. Mahant Swami Maharaj, having completed his evening engagements, began his walk back to his room. As he stepped onto the metal bridge connecting the Sabha Hall to the Pradakshina path, a familiar scene unfolded. Devotees—many of whom had stood there countless times before—waited eagerly for his darshan. Their eyes shimmered with devotion. Their hands folded with hope. Their hearts beat with silent prayers. Swamishri paused. He didn’t glance briefly and [Read More…]
Simple Act of Kindness: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
In the quiet town of Sarangpur, Gujarat, on a seemingly ordinary morning—April 9, 2019—something extraordinary unfolded. It wasn’t marked by ceremony or grand proclamation. It was a small moment, easily missed by most. But for one man, it became unforgettable. Every morning, as Mahant Swami Maharaj stepped out of Sarvasva, his residence, he would make his way down the familiar stairs facing the Sapodilla orchard. And like clockwork, at the same spot, stood a security guard. There were no long conversations, no elaborate exchanges—just a smile, a nod, a small greeting. Yet, in that simple act, there was warmth. Recognition. [Read More…]
Unshakable Devotion: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
They say true commitment isn’t measured by comfort—it’s revealed in challenge. In September 1997, at the age of 64, Mahant Swami Maharaj embarked on a journey that would push the very edges of human endurance. Not just a journey of miles—but of meaning. In the span of just four days, he traveled over 30,000 kilometers across continents. On September 3rd, he flew from London to Mumbai. The very next night, he departed for Singapore. There was no pause, no time to recover. From Singapore, he continued straight on to Sydney, Australia, arriving on the morning of the 5th. For most, [Read More…]
Winning the Spiritual Battle
This week on Satsang Conversations, we journeyed to the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi to unpack a particularly resonant section of the Vachanamrut: Gadhada 1-70, aptly titled “Kakabhai’s Question.” This episode delved into the internal struggles we all face and how, with faith and right action, we can find a state of “befikr” (carefreeness) amidst life’s chaos. A Timeless Setting, a Timeless Question: Just like the conversations held by Bhagwan Swaminarayan centuries ago, our discussion unfolded in an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds could openly explore profound questions. Kakabhai’s simple yet powerful inquiry resonated deeply: “Deep within one’s [Read More…]
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…]
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…]
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…]
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…]
A True Example of Selflessness: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
June 3rd, 2019, Sarangpur. The air buzzed with celebration and joy. Thousands had gathered for the grand opening of the Youth Convention, with Mahant Swami Maharaj at the heart of it all. As his golf cart approached, the cheers, the music, and the applause filled the atmosphere. In a moment like this, anyone might be carried away by the grandeur. But not Mahant Swami Maharaj. Amidst all the excitement, his focus shifted to something that others overlooked—four young volunteers walking barefoot on the hot ground. With genuine concern, he softly asked, Are they feeling hot? While others celebrated, he noticed [Read More…]