Raj Mandir & Shrimad Rajchandraji Pratishtha Mahotsav

Pratishtha Ceremony of 108 inch Pratimaji of Param Krupaludev Shrimad Rajchandra in Shree Raj Saubhag Ashram Sayla*

4 - 10th March 2019

Quick Links

Event Write-up and photos

Video recordings of Pratishtha Events

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The most mesmerizing Pratistha

Only an ardent disciple can truly understand what it means to consecrate the Lord, the Guru and the faith in the innermost realms of his heart. The most holy days of March 2019 witnessed the Pratistha Mahotsav of the simply awesome, jaw-droppingly majestic Raj Mandir and breathtakingly divine pratimaji of Shrimad Rajchandra in Sayla.  This much awaited program spanned over 7 days, was presided over by eminent heads of various ashrams, and infused thousands of disciples with overwhelming devotion.

On the beautiful morning of 4th March, after morning meditation and nityakram, mumukshus participated in soulful bhakti and swadhyay. Pujya Bhaishree gave an insightful discourse on Updesh Chhaya 9. He made special mention of the devotion of the gopis for Shri Krishna. Even while going about their daily chores, their whole being was immersed in devotion for the Lord. Similar should be the devotion of every mumukshu aiming to reach their ultimate goal – enlightenment or samkit. The Panch Kalyanak Pujan in the afternoon and audio-visual film – ‘Divya Jyoti no Amar Prakash’ in the evening, brought in the first devotion filled day of the 7-Day Pratistha Mahotsav.

On the 5th of March, among the special programs were Atma Siddhi Pujan and transformation message delivered through comedy by well-known performer Shahbuddin Rathod. By some divine co-incidence Pujya Fulchandbhai Shastri, founder of Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra in Umrala arrived in Sayla on the very day and time when the Atma Siddhi Pujan was being conducted. He graced the occasion with his presence, arriving in ashram in the morning hours, accompanied by other mumukshus. During the afternoon swadhyay, Pujya Bhaishree gave a discourse on Vachnamrutji letter 569.  

On the 6th of March, the entire day was filled with swadhyay, agna bhakti, meditation, collective recitation of the Atma Siddhi shastra and ultimately devotional bhakti by Shri Ashokji Pandey and his immensely talented troupe from Varanasi, which filled the Raj Mandir hall with melodious bhajans and lingering notes of musical instruments.

The triple day special fest 7th-8th-9th March saw a flurry of celebrations – from the ceremonial procession of the Pratimaji, along with visiting dignitaries, all seated in magnificent chariots. The whole parade of devotees leading and following the chariots brought to memory, the holy rath-yatra of Bhagwan Mahavir’s diksha ceremony as described in the Kalpa Sutra. So divine was the entire occasion, that it drew a candid comment from Pujya Gokulbhai: “The entire event is reminiscent of Mahavideh Kshetra. So palpable is your devotion, O mumukshus, that I suggest all of you extend your stay in Sayla.  Follow up your sadhna. Strike while the iron is hot just now. You will surely reach your goal of Samkit, and make this human birth successful.”

Parshwa Padmavati Pujan was conducted by the well known pujakaar – Shri Hiteshbhai, who explained the meaning of many shlokas which helped in fully engaging the participants during the entire 4-hour ceremony. With every consequent event matching up to the excellence of its predecessor; there remained one more cherry on the cake: a 35-minute dance performance by trained classical dancer-mumukshus from London, Nilpa and Naitika. So emotively was the message conveyed in their performance on Shrimadji’s composition – ‘Bahu Punya Kera Punj Thi’, that the audience was held spell bound. The entire moksh marg, the pitfalls on the way, the shelter provided by an enlightened master and value of this priceless human birth were explained through dance, drama, dialogue, music and emotions. Their perfectly coordinated steps along with the hand and eye movements were a delight to watch.

On the auspicious day of 8th March (Fagun sud 2, birthday of Param Pujya Bapuji), after the ceremonial procession, was the Pratistha ceremony of Bhagwan Mahavir and the inauguration of 3-D images of the lineage of enlightened masters of Sayla.  All the visiting dignitaries from different ashrams in India then gave their discourses and sent good wishes and blessings.

Below are excerpts from the discourses of visiting heads of ashrams:

After the Pratistha, Pujya Ben Prabhu said the bhaavs of all the the mumukshus were extremely elevating. “I am sure that the planning for this 7-day occasion was backed by 7-year vision, consolidated by numerous years of sadhna of an enlightened master – Pujya Bhaishree.  And all of us were able to participate, witness and experience this divinity due to the compounded punyas of 7-births. The whole event was complete. When a combination of bhakti and satsang lead to an inner stillness, an inner silence – the entire journey radiates completeness.  I have never witnessed such a Pratistha before.”

Pujya Gokulbhai said: “This Atma is the knower of all pleasure and pain, it does not feel the hurt, sting or discomfort of pain and neither does it experience any excitement or thrill from worldly pleasures. The great Atma is completely unmoved and a witness of external events. This is the path of total non-attachment.”

Pujya Gangjibhai said: “Always remain aware that you are the powerful soul. Every activity, every action must be done with awareness. The bhakti bhaav of every mumukshu that we have witnessed during this Pratistha reminded me of the incidence in Shrimadji’s life when mentioned to Laghuraj swami that in the entire day he was reminded of the satsang he partook in when he was the disciple of Bhagwan Mahavir.  In the same way, all of you mumukshus must have inculcated this bhakti bhaav in your previous births, such that in this birth too, all of you are drenched with devotion.

Pujya Chandanaji said: “So beautiful and divine was the collective bhakti bhaav that I was unable to remember anything else, or feel anything else. I felt that I was present in the Samvasaran. I have experienced such magnanimity, inclusiveness and large-heartedness in Pujya Bhaishree that he is able to unite so many different people and different streams of thoughts within him, that I shall pray to the Lord that he is able to connect people in all four corners of the earth and unite them through love and compassion. This bhakti marg will surely overcome all the hatred and jealousy that is released into societies at the behest of religion. Thank you Bhaishree, for inviting me to experience this divinely uplifting occasion. Thank you again and again, and I also send my love to all the mumukshus.”  

Pujya Ben Prabhu said: “There is always an objective or goal in every event conceived by an Enlightened Master.  So when a colossal sized pratimaji of Shrimadji is planned to be consecrated in this equally large Raj Mandir, there is surely a divine message that accompanies this occasion. When I attempted to connect to Pujya Bhaishree’s vision, four points came to my mind as significant factors:

1. Make your vision large; reach for the sky, reach for enlightenment, rather than groping for insignificant things like wealth, power, family ties etc.

2. Expand your thoughts and discussions to ‘Who am I? Where have I come from? Whence forth my journey?’; rather than narrow, lowly thoughts about politics, food, women or government.  

3. Become large-hearted; inculcate qualities of brotherhood, forgiveness, understand the perspective of the other person.

4. See the big picture in every incidence of your lives.  Auto-suggest to yourselves ‘this too shall pass’

The ashram trustees and mumukshus expressed heartfelt gratitude and felicitated architect and interior designer Shri Devenbhai and civil engineer Shri Chandrantbhai Jasani and their entire team for their selfless service in the construction of the spectacular Raj Mandir.

Shri Ashishbhai and his group immersed the audience in devotional bhakti towards the end of the evening.

9th March – Fagun Sud 3 (also inauguration day of the Ashram and Jinalay (temple) in Sayla)

The Sattar Bhedi Puja was conducted from 6.45 am on the artificial turf outside the Raj Mandir.  Mumukshus gathered for participating in the puja as well as changing the Dhaja (Jain flag over the temple). This ceremony is a veneration of the 5 holiest beings – Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyays and Sadhus in the entire universe.

At 10. 45 am, was the climax of the entire occasion – Pratistha of Shrimad Rajchandra’s pratimaji in the new Raj Mandir. To the uplifting music of bhajans and chants, disciples danced in gay abandon, deeply grateful to be part of this most holy event.  So breathtakingly beautiful and mesmerizing was the inauguration of the Pratimaji, that every eye turned moist and every heart overflowed with pure devotion. The nectar-clad image of Shrimadji seemed like the very replica of Bhagwan Mahavir in the Samvasaran. A deep silence descended in the auditorium filled with 2000 people and every soul was overwhelmed.

10th March - Shanti Pujan

To bless the new hall, to expel negative energy and to fill with pure energy a shanti pujan was conducted in the new Raj Mandir in the final day of the Mahotsav.

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Video Recordings

Day 1 - Mon 4th March

Day 1 - Swadhyay & Bhakti - Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut Updesh Chayya 9.

Day 1 - Panch Kalyanak Pujan

Day 2 - Tues 5th March

Day 2 - Atma Siddhi Shastra Pujan

Day 2: Swadhyay - Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut Letter 569.

Day 2 - Bhakti, Video of November Amrutotsav and Shahbuddinbhai Rathod’s Pravachan

Day 3 - Wed 6th March

Day 3 - Morning Swadhyay

Day 4 - Afternoon Swadhyay

Day 3 - Bhakti Programme with Ashokbhai Pande and Group

Day 4 - Thurs 7th March

Day 4 - Morning Swadhyay - Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut Letter 469 explained by Param Pujya Bhaishree. Following swadhyay was the changing of the garlands ceremony in Kalyan Hall.

Day 4 - Parshvapadmavati Pujan

Day 5 - Friday 8th March

Shobha Yatra

Unveiling of outside front plaque, opening of Raj Mandir doors, Unveiling of Guruvariyo Plaques and Bhagwan Mahavir idol Pratishtha Ceremony

Sant Sabha and Swadhyay

Day 5 - Dance & Bhakti with Shree Ashishbhai and group

Day 6 - Sat 9th March

Day 6 - Satarbhedi Pujan and changing of the Deraser Flag ceremony

Day 6 - Pratishtha ceremony of Param Krupaludev Shrimad Rajchandra’s 108 inch Murti in Sayla Ashram

Day 7 - Sunday 10th March

Day 7 - Shanti Puja

IVY Swadhyay - Feb 2019

For students, the month of February and March is about exams; so is every day of our life – about pressure, performance and results. In this morale boosting swadhyay, Brahmnisht Minalben shares 10 key tips that one must remember if they wish to do well in their tests – written paper or practicals, with a cool head

She says, while facing any situation -

1. Be confident – Because you are not alone. Through your faith, Pujya Bhaishree is always with you.

2. Never compare – Give your best and leave the rest to God.

3. Be consistent – If you really want something, two things that will guarantee achievement, is perseverance and consistency.

4. Understand what you study – To retain something for a longer time and to be able to use it practically, understanding is fundamental.

5. Marks are not the only criteria – The journey is more important than the destination. LEARN – PUT in your BEST and ENJOY what you do.

6. Picture what you study – Do not study hard, study SMART. Doing one task at a time, studying methodically, giving a picturesque form to what one studies will help to effectively remember things.

7. Resist the urge to copy – Learn to rely on yourself. Trust yourself.

8. Keep your goals BIG – Aim for the moon. If you miss, you may hit a star. Even for a spiritual being  –  ‘A soul without High Aim is like a ship without a rudder’ – Eileen Caddy

9. Never despair – Failure is a part of life. Your sadguru is always with you. Every cloud has a silver lining.

10. Plan your future in such a manner so you can serve others –The best living example in our life is Pujya Bhaishree. Make a habit of being useful to others.

The kind of test does not matter, but efforts and intentions matter. Sometimes the result may be good or bad, sometimes better or worse, but your attitude and confidence will make the difference.

Lord Mahavir in His last sermon mentioned 4 things which are rare in this era:

1. Manushyatva – Getting a Human life and being humane

2. Finding shelter in Satsang and Sadguru

3. Having faith in Sadguru

4. Having found faith, living a life abiding his aagnas

Nectar of Humanity: Merely being born a human being is not enough; one must also cultivate the virtue of humanity

The desired results will be seen by making the most of each day.  We have been graced with three rare jewels. To make our human life better and help reach our soul to its rightful pinnacle, will depend on our understanding what we have been blessed with and walk on the path shown by our sadguru.

Who enjoys the nectar of humanity?

• He who broadens his heart and mind – Two principles that we must imbibe are ‘Vasudev kuttumbhakam’ (the whole world is like my family) and the  principle to inculcate the right values, regardless from where we receive them. Rather than stubbornly clinging on to our own beliefs as the only right beliefs, we must expand our vision to imbibe right values from wherever we can.

• He is who is a slave of his desires is a demon -Rise above your desires

• He who sympathizes with the grieving – We are not selfish, Pujya Bhaishree teaches us to be caring, selfless, loving towards others

• He who takes not the advice of well -wishers is not a human – Learn the art of giving as well as receiving

• Increased duration of sleep impairs intellect – Set your sleep regime

• Respect other people – Respect has to be earned. Gentle nature begets respect

• Recognize the joys & sorrows and needs of your family members – Love is knowing and understanding

• Spiritual matter is spiritual awakening – This body is not the soul. What you can see with these eyes is ephemeral. Remember, soul is immortal and cannot be seen with these eyes

• To be enamoured by luxury is slavishness - The soul has two functions – the knower and the observer. Practice mindfulness. Practice being in the present without being involved.

A good human is known by his character. These refined thought processes and daily practices build both our character and morale.

Revitalizing message!

All of us read page 13 from ‘The Pinnacle of Spirituality’ and some young mumukshus shared their experiences with the others.

Grand Celebration of Prem ni Parab Annual Day award ceremonies – January 2019

As every year, the annual day celebrations of the 130 schools under ‘Prem Ni Parab’ project, was conducted in the premises of Raj Saubhag Ashram, Sayla. This is the 15th consecutive year of ‘Prem Ni Parab’ project; and all the schools sent their representatives, teachers, award winning students to attend the function.

Presided over by Pujya Bhaishree, the event had Shri Muktanandji Bapu (from Brahmanand Vidya Dham) as its chief guest. Other dignitaries present at the event included the chief of Gujarat Kelavani Parishad – Shri Mansukhbhai Salla; government official Shri Girishbhai Gadhvi, project director of Prem Ni Parab – Shri Chandrakantbhai Vyas, Smt Minalben Shah among others.

Lighting of the ceremonial lamp was followed by excellent performances by the students. When students from small villages and poor families match the expertise and confidence of students from affluent families living in large metros, it filled every heart with pride at the milestones crossed by the entire education upliftment programme (Prem Ni Parab) in these largely neglected areas.  

Awards were given to the best student of the year – male and female category, as well as the best teacher and school award was given away too.

Best School Award – Khetla Kumar Primary School

Best Teacher Award – Dinesh Gatorbhai Waghela of Naanchandraji Smarak Primary School

Best Female Student Award – Dhrumi Muliya (Meghmani Primary School)

Best Male Student Award – Pravin Arjanbhai Palani (Kumar Primary School, Doliya)

Expressing complete satisfaction at the progress made in education sector in and around Sayla, chief guest Muktanandji Bapu said every student should always bear in mind that he walks and follows the constructive path and not any kind of destructive path. The entire program began at 9 am and ended at 6 pm, witnessing the participation of over 2000 people.

Ashirvad - Helping the less fortunate stand on their feet

Assistance to Disabled Persons

On 21st January, 2019, Raj Saubhag Ashram’s Ashirwad Center for the Disabled organized a ceremony to distribute self-employment tools and appliances to people with disabilities. This activity was supported by Wagh Bakri Tea Group as part of their CSR activity.  A total of 102 people challenged with various disabilities were provided with self-employment tool-kits like auto parts toolkit, carpentry, cobbler and computer repairing kit, toolkits for women to run beauty parlours and hair saloons; or earn money providing sewing services.  Disabled men were provided with cycle repairing kit, masonry kit, hand carts to gain employment as vegetable vendors or start tea stalls.  This assistance goes a long way in making them self-sufficient, earn a living and support themselves.  Such voluntary contributions enhance social justice and go a long way in restoring self-worth of the unfortunate souls weighed down by twin ordeals – disability and poverty.

Pujya Bhaishree gave away the self-employment tools, while kindly and graciously encouraging every soul, warming their hearts with his empathy. Present at the occasion were executive director Shri Paragbhai Desai, CEO Shri Saurabhbhai Solanki, company secretary Shri Dineshbhai Patel, chief secretary of Blind people’s association Dr. Punani, executive director Smt. Nandiniben Rawal, Vimalben, director of Sense International-India Shri Akhil Paul and mumukshus of Raj Saubhag Ashram.

IVY Swadhyay - January 2019

This swadhyay was conducted in the form of a conversation between a student and his Guru, representative of the IVY kids and Pujya Bhaishree. 

The students says: “Education is important” to which the Guru replies, “I believe education is important but meditation is more important.”

The student continues: “My education was transformational; it has made me civilised.” 

The Guru answers: “Mediation transformed me deeply; it made me realised.”

Student: “Education won me many gold medals.” 

Guru: “Meditation gave me golden moments.”

Student: “Education gave me job eligibility.”

Guru: “Meditation gave me life flexibility.”

The Guru continues giving his perspective on why meditation triumphs over all other activities in life by modestly pointing out its benefits while replying to the student. 

Student: “Education fostered appreciation.”

Guru: “Meditation fosters introspection.”

Student: “Education sharpened my intelligence.”

Guru: “Meditation deepened my awareness.”

While appreciation may be superficial and momentary, introspection will always lead to true happiness. The student says that education made him a good tax payer to which the Guru replied that mediation answered all his prayers. No matter how intelligent we are, with age the sharpness of our senses starts to fade. However, the awareness of the awakened soul always remains and deepens with passing time.

Student: “Education stimulated my passion.”

Guru: “Meditation motivated my compassion.”

Student: “Education made my job fruitful.”

Guru: “Meditation made my life grateful.”

Mediation makes one conscious of the importance of a human life.

Student: “Education made me a go-getter.”

Guru: “Meditation invoked inclusiveness.”

Student: “Education added colours to my mind.”

Guru: “Meditation cleanses our minds.”

Student: “Education pushed me outward.”

Guru: “Meditation pulled me inwards.”

Student: “Education made me who I am.”

Guru: “Meditation showed me who am I.” 

Guru concludes the conversation by saying “One must educate themselves to meditate.” The student agreeably replies with “I think meditation will make me complete.”

Continuing with the reading of “Pinnacle of Spirituality”, that narrates Shrimad’s life, Pujya Minalben read the chapter on “Detachment”. The chapter recounts Shrimad’s early detachment from the material world, spurred by the death of his grandfather, Panchanbhai. While leading his grandfather’s funeral procession, carrying the coal to burn the body, Shrimad was lost in his thoughts. He started questioning the fundamental truths about life and death and the mysteries of the soul. So immersed was he in profound thoughts, that he inadvertently stepped on a thorn and his foot started to bleed. But he did not feel a thing and continued to walk. Only when he got home and his mother asked him why he was limping? did he realise that a thorn had pierced his foot. 

During the second segment of the IVY swadhyay, Pujya Vikrambhai started with a melodious song that highlighted the significance of living in the moment while advancing through life. This is the very essence of meditation: focus in every moment, be present in what we are doing.

What is meditation?

• It is simply to concentrate, not be carried away or overpowered by our minds. Our mind has become the jockey riding our soul like a horse into thoughts that are irrelevant. Our goal is to control the mind and make the soul our driving force, our jockey.

• Meditation is being aware of who I truly am, while I go about my daily activities in life. I am my soul. The knower behind the senses and the mind. Our senses allow us to perceive things but our soul is the all-powerful knower and gives the senses the strength to function. 

• It is a peaceful response to any and every ting we encounter. Pujya Bhaishree embodies peace, he is never hurried, impatient or intolerant. He is always happy, steady, quiet, measured and peaceful. 

• Meditation is being content with what we have, because contentment leads to peace, which in turn allows for meditation. Discontent leaves us with a wandering and wavering mind which does not allow us to concentrate. 

• It is to understand and distinguish between right and wrong and knowingly opt for the right choice. 

• It is living in the soul, while residing in the body.

An old, loud and grumpy lady climbed on to a bus and sat next to a young lady. The old lady was carrying many bags, she bumped some of them in to her and took up a lot of space, squeezing the already-seated young woman. The person seated opposite got upset and asked the young lady why didn’t she say anything?  The person opposite was so intolerant that he could not see her in pain and was concerned about her being harassed. The young lady smiled and said “It is not necessary to be rude or argue over something so insignificant. The journey together is so short; I get off at the next stop.”

Similarly, our time together is so short and yet we darken it with quarrels, futile arguments, not forgiving others and being discontent. We waste our time and energy. We should remember and live life by this principle: “The journey together is so short.” We must strive to always be happy and cheerful and not let anyone affect our peace. We should cherish our friends, family and work, be respectful, kind and forgiving and full of gratitude and gladness - for our journey together is so short!!

Uttar Pradesh - The Land of 48 Jin Kalyanak - Jatra 2019

January 1 to January 9, 2019

Quick Links:

Uttar Pradesh, Tirthankara, 5 Kalyanaks, 48 Kalyanak Tirths

Day 3 - Allahabad, Triveni Sangam, Kaushambi, Prabhash Giri

Day 4 - Varanasi

Day 5 - Bhelupur, Kashi Vishwanath, Ganga Aarti

Day 6 - Bhadaini, Sarnath, Sinhpuri, Chandrapuri

Day 7 - Ayodhya

Day 8 - Ratnapuri

Day 9 - Shravasthi

Photo Gallery

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January 2019 Jatra (pilgrimage), took participating Raj Saubhag mumukshus to the Northern State of Uttar Pradesh, to the cities of Allahabad, Kaushambi, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Ratnapuri, Shravasthi and Lucknow, janma bhumi of 12 Tirthankars of current chovisi and their 48 Jin Kalyanak Tirths.

Uttar Pradesh, the land of Tirthankars

A land mass that holds utmost importance to Jain Mythology, where non-violence, peace and truth have been understood and practiced for thousands of years, where 17 of the 24 Tirthankars of current chovisi, were born and is home of 67 Jin Kalyanak Tirths. The innumerable Jain Shrines that dot the state of Uttar Pradesh speak of a myriad of intimate associations with the lives of Jain Tirthankars. A power-house of spiritual energy that has attracted and moulded sentiments of millions of people across the nation and around the world.

Tirthankara, (Sanskrit: “Ford-maker”) also called Jina (“Victor”), in Jainism, a saviour who has succeeded in crossing over life’s stream of rebirths and has made a path for others to follow.

There are 5 kalyanaks (auspicious events) in life of a Tirthankar:

1. Chyavana Kalyanak: When the soul of Tirthankara enters mother's womb.
2. Janma Kalyanak: Birth of the Tirthankara.
3. Diksha Kalyanak: When a Tirthankara renounces all worldly possessions and becomes an ascetic.  
4. Kevalgnan Kalyanak: The event when a Tirthankara attains Kevalgnan, absolute knowledge. A divine samavasarana (preaching hall) appears, from where the Tirthankara delivers sermons.  
5. Nirvana Kalyanak: When a Tirthankara leaves their mortal body, it is known as Nirvana, the final liberation, Moksha.

48 Kalyanak Tirths:  

Kaushambhi Tirth:  Padmaprabhu Swami 4 kalyanaks
Purimtal:             Adinath Bhagwan 1 kalyanak
Bhelupur:        Parshwanath Bhagwan 4 kalyanaks
Bhadani:      Suparshwanath Bhagwan 4 kalyanaks
Chandrapuri:     Chandraprabhu Bhagwan’s 4 kalyanaks
Sinhapuri:       Shreyansnath Bhagwan’s 4 kalyanaks
Ayodhya:               19 Jin kalyanaks- Adinath Bhagwan (3), Ajitnath Bhagwan(4), Abhinandannath Bhagwan (4), Ananthanath Bhagwan (4), Sumatinath (4)   

Ratnapuri:    Dharmanath Bhagwan’s 4 kalyanak
Shravasthi:     Sambhavnath Bhagwan 4 kalyanak

““બધાનાં અંત:કરણની અંદર ભગવાન પ્રત્યેનો ખૂબ ખૂબ ભક્તિભાવ જાગવો જોઈએ કારણ કે જે તીર્થભૂમિ પર જઈએ છીએ, તે તીર્થભૂમિ અને ભગવાનના જે કલ્યાણકો થયાં હોય એની જે સ્પર્શના છે એ આપણા શરીરની અંદર નવી ઊર્જા ઉત્પન્ન કરે અને અપૂર્વ ઉત્સાહ અંદરથી જગાડે કે જેમ ભગવાને આ ભૂમિ પર આત્મકલ્યાણ સાધી લીધું તેમ હું પણ મારું આત્મકલ્યાણ સાધી લઉં.” ”

— Param Pujya Bhaishree

Day 3: 02.01.19 - Allahabad

Visit to Triveni Sangam
Early morning start, 6:00AM, to visit Triveni Sangam. As mumukshus made way to the boats to reach holy Sangam, heavy fog obscured view of Kumbh Mela 2019 setup. Millions of tourists arrive annually for a sacred dip in the confluence of two physical rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the subterranean mystical river, Saraswati. In Hindu mythology taking a bath in the holy Triveni Sangam is said to cleanse the soul of its sins, setting it free from the cycle of rebirth. The sight of the confluence of water of River Ganga (brownish) with Yamuna (slightly greenish), along with the flocks of chirping migrating Siberian birds flying over the boats, jostling for space for a holy dip, along with the pilgrims, is truly a mesmerising sight. Bhaishree likened the confluence of rivers to the sadhna he has blessed the mumuxus with.

The origin of Kumbh Mela was transcribed by the 8th-century philosopher Shankara. The founding myth of the Kumbh Mela points to the Puranas (compilation of ancient Hindu legends). It recounts how heavenly angels and demons fought over the sacred pitcher, the Kumbh of Amrit, the nectar of immortality called the Ratna of Samudra Manthan. It is widely believed that Lord Vishnu, disguised as the enchantress ‘Mohini’ whisked the Kumbh out of the grasp of the covetous demons who had tried to claim it. As he took it heavenwards, a few drops of the precious nectar fell on the four sacred sites which are now known as Haridwar, Ujjain, Nasik and Prayag. The fight and the following pursuit is said to have lasted twelve divine days which is equivalent to twelve human years and therefore, the Mela is celebrated every twelve years, staggered at each of the four sacred sites in this cycle. The corresponding rivers are believed to have turned into Amrit at the cosmic moment, giving pilgrims the chance to bathe in the essence of purity, auspiciousness and immortality.

Once again, we can liken the fight of devas and asuras as that of Arhat conquering the four inner enemies to attain the inner nectar or the eternal bliss.

Kaushambi

Visit to Jain Shwetambar Tirth
Post breakfast, Yatris departed for Kaushambi Tirth, home of Padmaprabhu Swami’s 4 kalyanaks (chyavan, janma, diksha and kevalgnan). Immersed in bhakti bhaav, mumukshus had opportunity to do puja and chaityavandan with Pujya Bhaishree.

Visit to Shri Prabhash Giri Tirth Kshetra Pabhosa, Ancient Gardens of Kaushambi

Next, the Sangh headed to Prabhashgiri tirth - Pabhosa, for darshan at Digambar Derasar built in 1834 with mulnayak, Padmaprabhu Swami. Digambars believe Padmaprabhu attained diksha & Kevalgnan here.

Mahavir Bhagvan accepts food (boiled unsplit black beans) from Chandanbala and breaks 5 months & 25 days fast

There is also a life size idol of Chandanbala giving alms to Bhagwan Mahavir. Chandanbala was enslaved and taken to Kaushambhi. After facing several trials and tribulations with equanimity and forgiveness, she was freed when Mahavir Bhagwan accepted alms from her.

Prabhash giri, small hill, near the Digambar temple has a cave (9ft by 7ft) and a small Derasar. Padmaprabhu is said to have spent large part of his life in the cave.

Prabhash Giri

Bhagwan Mahavir had also visited Kaushambi many times, His samavarsan was also setup here. Legend also has it, Shri Krishna and Balram visited gardens of Kaushambi (Pabhosh) after the burning of Dwarka. It was here Lord Krishna, resting beneath a tree was mistaken as a deer and fatally wounded by the arrow of his brother Jarakumar.

Day 4: 03.01.19

Varanasi (Kashi, Benares) - 16 Jin Kalyanak  
Sprawling city along the banks of River Ganges, Varanasi dates back to 11th century B.C., one of world's oldest inhabited cities with a maze of narrow alleys leading to its 88 ghats. A unique symbiotic relation exists between its diverse culture & heritage, spirituality and rituals, new and classical, all coexisting in sublime harmony.

For Hindus, Kashi is ultimate pilgrimage point, to wash away sins in the sacred waters of Ganga, to cremate loved ones, or to simply die here, in order to fast track journey to moksha. Along with Hinduism, this city of lights, is a magnet for Jains and Buddhists.

For Jains, Varanasi is a home for 16 Jin Kalyanak, 4 kalyanak each (Chyavan, Janma, Diksha & Kevalgnan) for Bhagwan Parshvanath, Suparshvnath, Chandraprabhu and Shreyansnath, respectively.

Varanasi : Chintamani Parshvanath Temple, Ramghat
Ancient temple of Chintamani Parshwanath, over 2,500 years old temple, built over three floors. Mumukhsus had opportunity to do seva puja and darshan of the several prachin murtis before settling down for Parshva Padmavati pujan.

Mulnayak Shri Chintamani Parshwanath Bhagwan

Shree Shantinath Bhagvan - Shree Parshwanath Bhagvan - Shree Ajitnath Bhagvan

Ancient murtis

On the ground floor of the temple, a beautiful idol of Lord Parshwanath atop Padmavati Devi has been installed, at the Kamath Yagna Sthal, the very spot where the first interaction between Kamath and Bhagwan Parshwanath occurred.

Legend goes, once Prince Parshva, passing by this area, witnessed a mendicant named Kamath conducting yagna outside the city. Coming closer to yagna sthal, the Lord noticed some logs of wood burning around the mendicant. Inside one of these logs was a pair of serpents, writhing in pain from the intense heat of the flames. Overcome by compassion the prince requested the mendicant to remove the log, "Burning a five sensed being in fire, what sort of self improvement do you strive for?" To that the mendicant replied angrily, "Prince! You are a child; go and enjoy your princely games. It is mendicants like me who know about religion not you."

When all efforts to persuade him were in vain, Parshva ordered his attendants to pull out the particular log from fire and split it open. As soon as the attendants did that, a pair of partially scorched serpents, fell on the ground writhing in pain. Realising that they were about to die, Prince Parshva asked them to remain equanimous during the last moments of their lives and not to have hatred towards the ignorant mendicant. He then recited the Namokar Mantra. With equanimous bhaav and hearing the Namokar Mantra in their final moment, the pair of serpents, after death were born in heaven as the king and queen of the Nag Kumar clan (Dharanendra and Padmavati - yaksh & yakshini of Prabhu Parshvanath).

Parshva Padmavati Pujan
Mumukhsus settled for an uplifting Parshva Padmavati pujan lasting about 3 hours.

The pujan was led by Bhaishree, comprising of mantras, stuti & prayers officiated by Hiteshbhai, and augmented by soulful bhakti rendered by Deepbhai. The power of the mantras with mind gripping bhakti and aatma bhav of the devotees, the entire temple reverberated with pure, divine energy. A truly profound experience.

Visit to Trailinga Swami Math
After pujan, mumukshus headed to the nearby Trailinga Swami Math (Ashram).

Trailinga Swami, was a Hindu Saint from Benares recognised as an Avadhuta, a great Saint, by Ramakrishna, Yogananda, and other Saints of his time. Referred to as the “The walking Lord Shiva of Varanasi”, he was believed to live for around 280 years, 150 of which residing in Varanasi. Ramakrishna had said that Trailinga Swami had exalted state of knowledge, and no body-consciousness, a real paramahansa ("Supreme swan") illuminating Benares.

Day 5: 04.01.19

Visit to Shwetambar Parshavanath Bhagwan Tirth, Bhelupur

The day started with visit to Shankeshwar Parshavanath Shwetambar Tirth in Bhelupur. Located in south of Varanasi town, Bhelupur Jain Tirth is dedicated to Lord Parshwanath where 4 kalyanaks are located.

A charan paduka (a sacred rock having the foot impressions) of Bhagwan have been installed to mark the sacred spot. Mumukshus had opportunity for seva puja, darshan and chaityavandan with Bhaishree.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Visit
In the afternoon, yatris visited the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple, also known as the Golden Temple, due to the massive gold plated dome on 15.5 meter high spires, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered Hindu pilgrimage site, the Temple enshrines one of the 12 jyotirlingams of Lord Shiva. Shiv devotees believe one who prays and worships Vishweshwar, the “Lord of All”, with devotion will attain liberation.

Evening Ganga Aarti Cruise
An amazing Ganga Aarti cruise was organised for the evening. Mumukshus boarded the boat from Assi Ghat, the southernmost Ghat in Varanasi. Hindus believe that it was at Assi Ghat that saint Tulsidas left for his heavenly abode.

The cruise enabled a beautiful view of the sunset, with its hues adding a delicate tint to the river, as well as the opportunity to witness, from the boat, the Ganga Aarti  – a daily ritual of offering devotion to the holy river Ganga – held at several ghats almost simultaneously. The entire experience was simply divine, just magical.

View of Aarti from the boat

Pujya Bhaishree’s inspiring message after the aarti,
“Ganges gives nourishment and life to all beings from one sensed to five sensed. We are indebted to the Ganges for inspiring spirituality to so many people and we see them doing aarti with so much ‘bhaav’. This devout aarti looks much more stunning from the river than from the ghat. The Ganges is such that it takes peoples’ dirt and sinks it into the ground and in return gives them it’s pure water. We should take inspiration from Mother Ganga, it is our duty to strive hard to progress on our spiritual path and for inner purity. We should have unshakable faith and devotion for the path given to us.

Every house in Varanasi has a temple, be it small or big! There must be some reason behind it. We must take inspiration from this.”

Mumukshus returned to the hotel feeling exhilarated.  

Day 6: 05.01.19

Bhadaini Tirth

Morning visit to Bhadaini Tirth, also known as Jain Ghat, home of Suparshwanath Bhagwan’s 4 kalyanaks. After puja and chaityavandan mumukshus settled down on the terrace for Bhaishree’s swadhyay.

Bhaishree reminded mumukshus of their good fortune, to be able able to be present on bhumi of 4 kalyanaks of Tirthankar Bhagwan. He then explained the Suparshvanath Bhagwan stavan by Devchandraji Maharajsaheb. Devchandraji described Suparshavnath Bhagwan as ‘Avyabadh sukh na Swami’ (Master of unimpeded happiness). For a striving sadhak,  observation of such “sukh”, would trigger within him, a desire to awaken the same sukh (eternal bliss) that is dormant within him.

Sarnath

Sarnath is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Jain devotees alike.

It is an immensely important Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is also referred to as Isipatana, a city mentioned by the Buddha as one of the four places of pilgrimage which his devout followers should visit. After enlightenment in Bodh Gaya (528 BCE), Buddha traveled to Sarnath. Delivered his first sermon to his 5 disciples teaching the “four noble truths” and setting in motion “The Wheel of Dharma”. Emperor Ashoka had also erected magnificent stupas and monasteries and engraved pillar here, in 3rd century BC.

Visit to Wat Thai Sarnath Temple
Referred to as Thai Temple, the Hinayana Buddha temple built in 1933, is located amid lush and manicured gardens. There is a statue of a laughing Buddha just before the main Thai temple and on the right side is an enactment of Buddha delivering a sermon to his disciples. There are other statues of Buddha in various mudras.

Visit to Sinhpuri Tirth
Birthplace of Shreyasnath Bhagwan and home for 4 kalyanak (Chyavan, Janma, Diksha and Kevalgnan). A beautiful temple complex with a Samavasaran with paduka of Bhagwan at the top.

Visit to Chandrapuri Tirth
Onwards to Chandrapuri Tirth, birthplace of Shree Chandraprabhu Swami and home for his 4 kalyanak (Chyavan, Janma, Diksha and Kevalgnan).

Day 7: 06.01.19

Ayodhya Tirth Kshetra -19 Jin Kalyanak Bhumi
Day spent travelling from Varanasi to Ayodhya. Important pilgrimage center for Hindus, Jains & Buddhists, alike. Name derived from Sanskrit ‘A’ and ‘Yudha’, meaning place of no conflict; the invincible, “one which cannot be conquered by vices”.

River Saryu, that flows through Ayodhya, has been a silent witness to great personalities that once walked the earth here.  

Besides association with Hindu mythology, Ayodhya has also nurtured spiritual values from Jainism. It is place where five Tirthankars, were born and preached the profound Jain values and is home for 19 kalyanaks.

Bhagwan Mahavir and Gautam Buddha too had visited this pious city many times.

Shree Ajitnath Shwetambar Jain Tirth, Ayodhya
Early evening arrival for a night stop at the Dharamshala within Derasar campus. Derasar is located in Katara mohalla near banks of Sarayu & Ghaghara rivers.

Evening spent with aarti and mangal divo at the temple, presiding deity Ajitnath Bhagwan in copper colour, and visits to Shri Digamber Jain Derasar and to Kanak Bhavan.

Day 8: 07.01.19

Ratnapuri Tirth
The Derasar has a beautiful chaumukhi (idol facing in all 4 directions) within shikharbandi stupa. The 4 Kalnayaks of Bhagwan Dharamnath (Chyavan, Janma, Diksha and Keval Gnan) took place here.

Four corners of the temple compound are anchored by Shree Dharmanath Bhagwan’s 4 Kalyanak Mandirs.

The temple is mentioned in Acharya Shri Jinprabhusurishwarji’s book, " Vivid teerth Kalp" written in fourteenth century of Vikram Samvat. The ancient temple is associated with number of miraculous stories. Temple pujari talked about sound of temple bells ringing in the night and of saffron rain falls. Stains, dried droplets of a recent rainfall were visible on temple campus paving.

After seva puja & darshan, yatris settled down, mumuksus at the ground level, and Bhaishree, Brahmnishts Minalben and Vikrambhai up above near mandir doorway, to revere the Lord with bhaav pujan (chaityavandan), stavans and garbas.  

Sravasti Tirth, Shravasthi   
After lunch at Ratnapuri, the sangh proceeded towards Shravasthi, to Sravasti Tirth. A sacred historic place celebrating 4 Kalyanak of Bhagwan Sambhavnath, (Chyavan, Janm, Diksha and Keval Gnan). A beautiful Derasar of white marble, with a white pratimaji of Sambhavnath in padmasan posture.

Shantinath Prabhu had also visited Shravasti and Mahavir Swami had spent several chaturmas here with Samosaran erected for Him on number of occasions. First meeting between Keshi Muni and Gautam Swamiji occurred here. Goshala had struck Mahavir here with tejoleshya (lightening ray produced out of his body).  

After aarti and mangal divo mumukshus retired for evening at the hotel.

Day 9: 08.01.19 - Shravasthi

In the morning mumukshus gathered at the Derasar for final seva, puja, darshan and chaityavandan.  

And thus ends, a spiritually divine jatra. 9 days spent in presence of Param Pujya Bhaishree on the revered bhumi of the Tirthankars, enabling a unique opportunity for spiritual development, steadiness of mind, meditation and eternal peace.

Ashirvad Aids and Appliances Support Camp - Botad

On a beautiful morning of 23rd December, thanks to the support from Pallaviben and Parushbhai Shah (UK-based mumukshus), an aids and appliances support camp was organized by Raj Saubhag Ashram in Botad.  On the grounds of Mansi Farm House, 511 people were gifted wheel chairs, artificial limbs, crutches, C.P chair, tricycles, hearing aids etc according to their disability and requirements.

Pujya Bhaishree, Shri Atmanandji Swami (Bhajanand Ashram, Botad), donors Parushbhai and Pallaviben, Sarojben, Prafulbhai, Sheyera, Lara and mumukshus of Raj Saubhag Ashram graced the occasion.

Prior to the support camp, a tremendous amount of work has already been carried out in the form of identifying the target areas (which is often close to 100 villages) where the underprivileged are in need of support equipment, organizing diagnostic camps with in-house doctors to identify the disability and requirements, meticulously documenting the medical conditions and then finally distributing the equipment and training the recipients about how to use these support aids.  The mumukshus applaud and are indebted to the selfless service provided by the healthcare workers.