Fearless and free in Kailash

By Asja Dupanovic, Bosnia

As soon as I felt that beautiful, clear and strong calling to go to holy Mt. Kailash, my mind stepped in. In the very next second, I thought to myself that I must be crazy, thinking that someone with my physical challenges could even dream of undertaking such a journey, not to mention enjoying it. On second thought, fear stepped in. What if it is too challenging and I just make problems for the organizers and the rest of the group, I thought. Then, back to mind – isn’t 2026 the best time to go? I could wait until then. 

That same afternoon, I had a very sincere conversation with myself and boldly decided to, pardon my French, cut the crap. I admitted to myself that I am healthy enough, strong enough, have the means, and have the time for this journey. What I did not have is any argument to postpone. There shall be no waiting, I told myself decisively, as who knows what will happen until 2026. 

I also decided, then and there, that there was no way for any physical challenge to stand in my way of making such a journey of a lifetime. No way. I am ready. I am ready to face all my fears, ready to fall apart completely in order to pick myself up from the ashes of all my former limiting beliefs and everything that ever held me back. I am ready to let myself off the hook, spread my wings and fly. In my own way, I communicated my intention, determination and bravery to Mohanji and Shirdi Sai Baba, in the depth of my heart, humbly asking for their blessings. 

Among others, I have this cute habit of writing messages to them and leaving them on my altar. This time, that message simply read: “A dip in Mansarovar and a darshan of Kailash. Thank you!” Call it however you want; expressing my wishes and intentions to them in such a way triggers some sort of magic for me. It not only makes me feel held accountable, but I feel their blessing sets a whole flow in motion, making me feel empowered beyond words. 

And so it was, the intention was set, and two months of preparations started. Throughout this period, I was simply happy and excited. There was no panic, no fear or worry. There was enough time to think about everything, to ask about everything, and even to read the Kailash with Mohanji book, The Inner Kora, which contains testimonials of pilgrims who went to Kailash with Mohanji in the years 2014 and 2016. 

As soon as I applied for the pilgrimage, I bought the flight ticket to Kathmandu way ahead and slowly, in peace, collected the other items I lacked (like a proper backpack, thermals, etc.). During this period, I faced some tests, all concerning money. The moment I signed up for the pilgrimage, I had 250 EUR for it. As soon as I would earn some extra money to add to my Kailash envelope, a super strange bill would reach me. 

Like one from the Tax Department, punishing me for something that my accountant did wrong in 2020. It realistically wasn’t even mine to pay but I paid it anyway, no questions asked, just moving on. It was not the time for conflicts, tension, or being upset. I had some sort of really wonderful respect for the sanctity of preparing for such a journey as a pilgrimage to Kailash.

The day came to pay the last instalment for the trip. Just like with the trip I made to India this February on the occasion of my (and Mohanji’s) birthday, the money simply happened, the grace of Mohanji and the Tradition, who else. I put it all in my bank account and waited for the monthly salary, which would also arrive that afternoon. And it did. I had all the money I needed to pay to the organizers. That was exciting! The transaction, however, was strangely unsuccessful, and what followed shocked me and made me laugh my heart out. 

The transaction was intercepted by hackers from a country far, far away, and my whole bank account was emptied. The whole of it. Not a penny was left. I soon snapped out of my initial shock and surrendered the situation to Mohanji and Shirdi Sai Baba with a smile on my face and peace in my heart. I sincerely shared with them that this situation is beyond me and asked them to handle it. Sure enough, you guessed it; I also left them a kind note on the altar, with a small heart drawn on the paper too. 

As I said, I found this period not to be suited for any conflict, and I had none with the bank that decided to pretend like nothing had happened. I paid a visit to a lawyer and, smiling, asked the lady to handle the matter graciously and with a non-violent attitude, telling her that I was off to a super sacred journey and simply said goodbye to her. She must have thought that I was crazy to be fluttering my wings just like a butterfly in such a situation. We were just at the Kriya Intensive retreat with Mohanji in my home town of Sarajevo those days.

I shortly told Mohanji what had happened and only asked if it was okay to ask my brother to pay for the trip instead of me. Mohanji confirmed it, and Filip made the payment the same day. I was going to Kailash, just as I knew I would be. I also knew that, in vertical time, this whole journey had already happened; Kailash yatra had already happened for me; I only needed to go there physically now.

Even with the bank account incident, everything went so smoothly for me the whole time. What I have experienced right from the moment my heart decided to go on this pilgrimage, I can only describe as happy, happier and the happiest of Asja. I was so happy the whole time! Happy, joyful, relaxed, at peace, fully surrendered at Mohanji’s feet and in sheer acceptance of everything that presented itself on the way, my arms fully open to embrace everything and anything.

Time in Kathmandu

I absolutely loved the five days that we spent in Kathmandu with Mohnaji in satsang, chanting, meditating, detailing the trip, sharing meals and becoming a family. Mohanji gave us his undivided attention and embraced us all with so much love and care. He inquired about my eating all the time. In his super sweet way, He would walk into the room asking, “Is Asja eating?” 

Kailash with Mohnaji group 2023, with Mohanji in Kathmandu

I sure was eating plenty! And laughing all the time! Laughter was to permeate all the days this group had spent together, only adding to my daily joy and happiness. I do not remember ever having such good laughs and being so perpetually happy like the three weeks of this journey. My endless gratitude goes to the other 26 Yatris for their part in the feel-good atmosphere that we shared those days. We were a small and sweet group glued together by a silent pledge to succeed in our desire to make this a trip of our lifetimes, to be there for each other, take care of each other, carry, empower, and support each other in all ways possible (laughing all the way whilst at it).

Kathmandu was special for me in more ways than one. I was there once before, in 2009, in the midst of a super challenging period of my life. Here I was, 14 years later, in front of those same prayer wheels in Swayambhunath Stupa, in a position to express nothing but gratitude. This time, I was healthy and happy in Kathmandu, not to mention on my way to Kailash with the most amazing group of people, guided and supported by none other than Mohanji, sprinkling his golden dust all over me non-stop. What a life!

In Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath Stupa

All the grace at Kailash Yatra

Happiness continued as we drove from Kathmandu to and through China. The first darshan of Kailash, just before we reached Lake Mansarovar, still takes my breath away when I think of it. Had that been the end of our journey, it would have been enough. My heart was full. 

The group’s first darshan (view) of holy Mt. Kailash

The day at Lake Mansarovar deserves a book on its own, I feel. Overwhelming are those instances when you simply cannot believe your fortune and wish for each moment to last forever. Such was the experience with the group on the shores of Mansarovar, whose sacred waters are fed by Kailash glaciers and are said to have celestial beings bathe in them during the night. 

Again, had that been the end of our journey, that would have been totally enough. When I thought that things could not get any better than they already were, we gathered around the fire for Homa, the sacred fire ceremony, most graciously led by our fellow pilgrim Kannaiah from the Netherlands. Each of us offered to the fire a stick of wood dipped in ghee, along with a deep intention. 

Homa, the sacred fire ceremony graciously led by Kanniah

I have no idea how long the ceremony lasted, but every moment of it was super special and super powerful. I was mind-blowingly happy to be there, grateful beyond words to share those moments with the group. We were all one, and the grace was felt as if it was pouring over us from everywhere. After the Homa, someone looked above, and we saw this scene in the sky. Indeed, it was no ordinary moment on the shores of Mansarovar! 

Above us, during Homa

The next morning, we started the three-day circumambulation (parikrama) of Mount Kailash. I bowed down after going through the Yam Dwar gates (The gateway of the God of Death), the starting point of parikrama), surrendering everything that used to hold me back – all my roles, identities, limiting beliefs, fears, all the baggage I did not even need to carry on my shoulders. I left it all behind to enter the world in which a new life was possible.

Yam Dwar, “The gateway of the God of Death”, the starting point of Kailash parikrama

Those three days were full of joy. Everything went easy and smooth for me. Until that point, nor later, did I feel any sign of altitude sickness. As if all the gifts thus far were not enough, I did not feel sick even for a moment. I experienced no lack of oxygen, felt no headache, nothing. Laugh if you wish, but my only trouble was with Mr. Pony! The first day, I was literally trying to survive it. I had no idea what I was doing wrong, but whenever I looked at my fellow pilgrims, they all seemed to me to be enjoying their ride and fully in control. 

I laugh now, but it was really not easy for me to stay on that horse. I patted it and thanked it many times, very grateful to its owner, who proved to be a very nice guy, always smiling, helping others, and expressing kindness to the horse and everyone we met on the road. Having heard all kinds of stories about ponies and porters, I was mostly asking myself if I was grateful enough for this kind of grace showering on me without stopping.

I struggle on the pony (yellow backpack), with Moushumi fully in control (behind me)

The second, most challenging day of the parikrama passed away, mostly in awe. Everything that unveiled itself before my eyes was simply stunning. From the most incredible landscapes, the absolutely unbelievable deep blue colour of the skies, the whitest clouds one can imagine, the way that the pony managed to climb Dolma La Pass (the highest point of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at 5630m), the magnificent Gauri Kund (believed to be the lake in which Goddess Parvati bathed), all the way to the hundreds of meditation caves on the hills on both sides of the last stretch of the road. 

Most precious moments were those in which I was completely alone, coming down from Dolma La Pass. I was taking my time as if trying to make each moment last longer so that I could engrave it deep in my memory and soul. I walked for a long time above Gauri Kund, chanting Om Hrim Namah Shivaya (the Sanskrit mantra invoking the spirit of both Shiva and Shakti), with Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati next to Mohanji in my heart. The sheer experience of those moments was mesmerizing and overwhelmingly beautiful. I experienced myself as fearless and completely free (no mind). 

Climbing Dolma La Pass (1)

Dolma La Pass (2)

Gauri Kund

At some point, the porter lady caught up with me and rushed me down the hill, completely spoiling the beauty of the moment. I don’t know why I didn’t tell her to go down without me, as I was fully immersed in the experience, which perhaps did not mean as much to her. 

I reached the guest house before my friends Ivana and Sanda. I took a room for the three of us and decided to have a rest before they came. They were among the five from our group who walked the whole 52km of the Kailash parikrama (without using the horse), and I thought it would be nice to do some reflexology on their feet as they finally reached the bed. Eventually, they joined me in our room, smiling and super happy. We were all thrilled about the day behind us. 

In the middle of our joy, I realized how badly they smelt of sweat, and we all burst into laughter as I told them to please have a shower first before I touched their feet. There were no shower facilities anywhere near, and we could hardly stop laughing. It was day seven since we had our last proper shower in Kathmandu. It was an amazing feeling to welcome everyone who came afterwards, have tea, chats about our day, perform Mohanji’s aarati and sing bhajans (our daily evening practice). 

Day three started while it was still dark outside, and it was going to be a short and easy horseback ride. I continued with my fascination and daydreaming over the meditation caves, which were everywhere to be seen. At one point, we reached a cliff, and the gentlemen walking the pony told me to get off the horse. I almost uttered inwardly: “No, you know that I can’t walk much; don’t spoil my day!” (I was a successful skier in my youth and in 2007, something inexplicable happened with my legs. Ever since, I get very tired when walking, cannot run even if my life depends on it, and feel quite unstable on my feet.) 

I caught myself in this negative thought and immediately decided that, at that moment, in that most amazing place on the planet, nothing would spoil my day. I will walk as slowly as an ant if necessary, but I am going to be happy taking each and every step along the way. In one instance, I realized that I was feeling super light in the body and having no trouble walking at all. In fact, I was walking quite fast, which was unreal. It’s so incredibly unreal that I added even more speed. I was going faster and faster and faster, out of this world thrilled with this body which resembled my ‘once upon a time body’ – strong, fast and able to withstand any physical effort. 

Let’s say that felt like nothing short of a state of bliss for me. I could not believe what was happening. Having reached a small hill, I was simply gliding over it, as if having some engine in my legs. Checking in with this incredible new/old body, I realized that I was walking fast uphill, and my pulse didn’t change at all, nor was I experiencing any shortness of breath. Simply put, that was just surreal. I wished to go on like that for long, as far as those amazing legs could take me. Unfortunately, in about a kilometre, the parikrama ended. It was finished, and I had to stop. At least to say that that was the last thing I wanted to do!

Life after Kailash

The days we spent on the bus returning back slowly to Kathmandu were spent in beautiful contemplation. For all those eleven days, I had no phone with me. I left it behind in Kathmandu. I needed that time off, and my deep desire was to feel the place and experience it fully. I saw my phone as just a distraction. Driving back through those incredible landscapes, bathed by beautiful sunshine, I spent hours on the bus in deep clarity about what I love and want to do in my life. The sheer satisfaction of these insights filled my heart with incredible joy. I was so happy. 

Happy on the road back from Tibet

Being back home, I did not experience the heaviness and grossness of energies. I did not feel bad or sad about returning. Life after Kailash only seems better than what it was before. Equipped with what I came back with, it most certainly is better and easier.

Ivana and I sending love to the group from back in Sarajevo

Final remarks

This testimonial would not be complete without mentioning the most incredible sherpas who travelled with us and took care of us. Six incredible beings, which I named ‘Mohanji’s army,’ made all the difference in the success and feel-good atmosphere of this trip. They made us feel safe, made us laugh, prepared the most amazing food for us in the most incredible conditions, and the list could go on and on. 

Sunil, Tashi and Nigma sherpas serving us lunch on the road when one of our buses broke

Lastly, there is an endless list of gratitude for me to express to Mohanji. Only he knows what he had to go through for this whole experience to go just the way it did. I remain forever grateful and surrender fully at his lotus feet.

Mohanji’s heartfelt blessings at bidding farewell to the group in Kathmandu

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 30^th November 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

To register for the next Empowered 5.0 in India, click here!

A piece of heaven called MCB

by Elham, Mohanji Acharya

“Gratitude opens the door for grace to flow.”

Mohanji

One of the ways to express gratitude to the Guru is to speak up about the grace that happened to us; in this way, we acknowledge it. Otherwise, time can wash away those blissful memories, and we may not remember how much Mohanji helps us, and we may forget his miracles that time and again gave us the experience of a blissful state. But when we express it solidly, it stays; the mind cannot deny it, time cannot wash it away, and it may inspire someone in the same situation now or even many years later.

I would like to share some of the experiences regarding my last trip with Mohanji to the Mohanji Center of Benevolence (MCB) USA. My husband Farshad and I were blessed to serve in Mohanji’s office team during this trip; we could observe Mohanji from a much closer perspective.

First, a little about this new center in the USA. In a word, it’s divine! It’s like that part of Power of Purity meditation when Mohanji talks about a serene land where you would like to sit for meditation forever! While driving towards the center for the first time, we were amazed by the area’s beautiful landscapes, serenity and peacefulness. Every early morning, driving from the hotel to the center was an amazing journey. It was a foggy, beautiful road, like movies, and we had the chance to see many deer and baby deer along the road, cows and calves, rabbits, horses and baby horses and crows peacefully sitting on the road. Mohanji says connecting to Lord Datta is not easy, so when people asked Datta how to connect to you, he said look at nature. While looking at that beautiful and peaceful nature, you could tangibly feel Datta deep inside. It was the first time I could feel or connect to Datta, and Mohanji himself could be felt as Datta during this trip. As Mohanji says, “I am an empty pot. I reflect what fills into me, time after time.” 

On the very first day, when Mohanji arrived at the center, a female black dog appeared (confirmed by Lata Ganesh), and even though it had a collar, it seemed to have no owner. Her eyes were full of love! She was looking at us with so much compassion. She also came inside the hall and attended Mohanji’s satsangs. We told Mohanji about the dog, and he said, “She is Gauri, wife of Shiva.” We all left in awe! This land started attracting divine beings immediately because of Mohanji’s presence. During his lunch, Mohanji gave me a handful of food from his plate to feed Gauri. 

For those who may not know, Mohanji always offers his food to divine beings in many dimensions and lokas, so this food becomes blessed by them, and it’s so nurturing and called Prasad. I am not scared of animals but don’t like to get very close or touch them, especially always avoiding their licking. Meanwhile, going out to feed her, I was thinking what to do! I don’t feel good to drop the food on the ground since it’s blessed food (Prasad). Then I gathered all the courage I had to feed by hand! Gauri was standing there, waiting, and I offered the food by hand and to my surprise, she took the food in a way that didn’t lick my hand at all! Obviously, the food was very nurturing to her, not only physically; she was very pleased. The next day, she brought her three kids, all in black! 

When we told Mohanji, He talked about the four dogs of Datta, which are the four Vedas. He said, “Feed them.” When Mohanji wants to eat, he keeps telling everybody to eat and asks if the animals outside have been fed. Once at lunch, He suddenly stared outside from the window near the lunch table and said, “Nobody should go hungry from here, nobody, no being.” Mohanji walks the talk; he always speaks about feeding the hungry, and he does the same in his daily life. Also, he doesn’t only eat for himself, as I had an experience of this. When he ate, my stomach was full; I wrote about it in the Guru Leela book, Volume 4.

Before coming to the USA, Mohanji had some programs in MCB Scotland, and since then, his feet have been swollen and painful, but he still proceeded with the schedule. When he arrived, his feet were very bad, and standing was not easy either, but you couldn’t see any mark of pain on his face; people were trying to touch his feet, and he was pulling them back. He did not request the people not to touch his feet! 

Once, after a meeting, he went out and sat on the terrace, and I took a tea for him and noticed a wheezing sound coming while he was breathing. I asked him what happened, “Father, this was not there a bit before”. He said, “I had to cleanse these people.” Our limited mind cannot understand that he is already in so much pain, and god knows what he has taken on to himself, but still, this can’t stop him from helping people by removing blockages and what else! This situation with the feet happened around the time of the earthquake in Morocco, and I felt there was a connection, and he saved many by taking things to himself.

When the retreat started on September 22, many meeting requests came up, and Mohanji’s team did their best to accommodate everyone. Being a witness to all these closely gave me much more understanding and respect for Mohanji and his team. It’s really not easy to manage these many requests, especially when Mohanji’s health is not well. He gives all of himself. He was fulfilling everyone’s wishes. Sometimes, people wanted to say something but might have felt shy. Then, Mohanji, with a smile, would ask, “You wanted to tell me something,” and they would open up. He does one thing constantly, non-stop: “Giving”. I told him, “Father, you gave a lot to everyone even though you are in pain, and you even fulfilled people’s expectations.” He said, “I’m here for this.” So simple, so selfless, without thinking of himself. He said, “I can take care of you, but I can’t take care of myself. I am always looking after you, right?” Absolutely, this is true, not me only; everyone who is connected to him has experienced it, he’s also taking care of many who are not connected but praying intensely. Sometimes, we have expectations that Mohanji will take care of everything. We should always remember that in this life, anything we experience now is the product of our deeds; nobody should be blamed for it, and nobody should take care of it. The Guru is not here to clean up our mess, but if he removes things out of compassion, it’s all his grace, nothing else. 

There was a very important event at the MCB: Homa. A sacred fire ceremony ritual that Mohanji himself was supposed to conduct. Many people joined, almost 200. As soon as Mohanji joined and started the ritual, the shift of energy was felt. There were thick clouds, and based on the day before forecasts, it was supposed to rain that day, but the map started changing, and there was no rain! Mohanji kept gazing at the sky several times during the 3 hours of the homa, probably each time with a different purpose. One of his gazes parted the clouds, and beautiful sunshine emerged. He was instructing what mantra to chant at times, and the presence of the deity connected to each mantra could be felt powerfully! When Mohanji said to chant the Vishnu mantra, soon after, a huge eagle appeared in the sky, flew above Mohanji’s head in the sky and then disappeared. Maha Vishnu himself came to bless the homa. When Mohanji instructed to chant the Hanuman mantra, the energy got so intense, and fire flames became tall and violent. Each deity had its flavour and sign. All deities came because Mohanji called upon them. 

After the homa, everyone felt super light, happy and joyful. There was so much kindness and love between everyone, and the land was much more vibrant. It felt like a higher realm, another dimension. After the homa was done, Mohanji was very satisfied and said, “It could not be done better!” So, the deities accepted the offering, and this is because of his purity; who cannot accept his pure offering? After this powerful homa, MCB USA felt like a powerful portal of light and energy, ready to give stability and awareness to anyone looking for it.

Most offered coconuts got burned sooner or later by that evening, but a couple of them were more resistant; they were still burning until noon the next day. Mohanji had eyes on them to make sure all would go. He always does his job perfectly and much more than that. He said one of these coconuts was about someone who committed suicide life after life, for 6-7 lifetimes, thus not completing a lifetime fully. In this life, too, the person tried to commit suicide, and that’s why it was tough to burn.

Despite a busy schedule and daily satsangs, Mohanji attended a school to donate some shoes to kids that some of their families might not be able to afford. This happened through ACT USA. The school was far, and it was a long drive, which meant it was not good for the feet, but nothing could stop him from making someone happy. Little kids were waiting in the hall, and they didn’t know who Mohanji was. The principal introduced him as the founder of ACT charity. Mohanji spoke to them briefly, but I felt he touched their hearts. He spoke about being kind and not selfish. Then, he took their attention to their breathing and body and encouraged them to feel themselves. Then they had the chance to select their shoes and were so happy and excited. Some of them couldn’t find their size, and one child was so sad, but nothing was missed from Mohanji’s eyes. He instructed the team to write their names and sizes, get their correct size, and deliver as soon as possible; such compassion and attention to detail!

He fulfilled many of my wishes on this trip. He has many ears and hears the hearts well. At the end of one satsang, someone tied a bracelet on Mohanji’s wrist, and when I saw that, just this thought passed through my mind, “Oh, it’s beautiful!”. A few hours later, after satsang, Mohanji was speaking to someone in the hall, and I was in the next room, so he called me to open this bracelet. By the time I could get there, he could open it himself, give it to me, and say, “It’s yours!”. I was so surprised, like a child, because first he heard that thought and this was sitting on his wrist for a few hours!! Such a blessing! I was so happy going around and showing others what I got!

My feelings about the time were very odd during my stay with Mohanji. I felt time go very fast, and at the same time, one day felt so long because so many things were happening in just one day. This cannot be explained in words because, from the mind level, there is a contradiction. But in simple words, time was fast and slow simultaneously!

Mohanji always goes the extra mile! Two days before the end of the retreat, Mohanji’s arati happened at 6 pm to his picture, and whoever was there in the MCB joined, and it was so powerful. People asked to meet him and have a satsang. His feet were not good at all, very swollen and painful, and he had a flight in two days. Yet, he fulfilled this wish! Mohanji had to keep his feet up to prevent more swelling, but he did not hesitate and preferred to bend his leg and have more pain than sitting in that position. 

On the last day before leaving for the airport, we met Mohanji in his room. He always asks us how we go back home, and he clears our way back, and if we experience anything, we know that Mohanji already made it a lot lighter. This time, without us telling him anything, he said, “Your flight is 8 hours, right?” and asked for the complete route back home. I felt it meant something. We started driving to the airport after receiving his blessings and a warm and lovely goodbye with everyone at the MCB. It was amazing to see eagles all the way to the airport constantly; Mohanji’s people (as he calls them) who were protecting! When we arrived at the airport and got our boarding passes, I heard another agent telling some other passengers that there was a delay in the flight, but I didn’t pay attention and thought it should be another flight; otherwise, this agent would inform us. We proceeded to the gate, and as soon as we arrived, they announced that there had been a 1.5-hour delay! 

The agent who served us was there, and I went to him and asked him why he didn’t inform us earlier about the delay. He started justifying himself that they just heard about it, but I couldn’t believe it because I had heard it from another agent. I was upset because if we had known earlier, we could have waited and seen Mohanji again since his flight was from the same airport but an hour later. 

After some unpleasant conversation with that guy and when the guy started shouting because they didn’t have any plan or explanation of what would happen if we missed our connection, we left the argument and waited for the flight. If we missed the connecting flight, that meant we may not even get home the next day, and Farshad had to be at work the next morning! So we could only surrender to Mohanji and wait. They announced boarding, and when everyone boarded the plane, it felt warm and suffocating with no AC. 

After some time and no movement, the captain started saying that there was some issue with the plane, that they needed to shut down for 10 minutes, and that it would get too warm in the plane. After a few minutes, a cabin crew member said that if it was warm and suffocating, we could get off the plane and leave our stuff inside but not go far away. After a few more minutes, another crew member asked everyone to get off the plane and take all our stuff! It was so weird. 

We felt we had lost the connection due to all this delay, and many thoughts came. What to do?! While walking out, we decided to cancel this flight and find another one-way flight, which was at a much higher rate now. I started searching for a flight, and Farshad was speaking with the agent. I found a flight in 3 hours with the cost of more than a 2-way flight. Then Farshad called me to check something with me, and I understood they would not refund the money but would give credit to our account with the same airline for the next travel! I told the guy, we’re not going to fly with them anymore, so what was the use of that? I noticed the guy’s attitude was different than before and trying to be helpful. 

There was a long line of people behind us, and everyone was so frustrated because the next flight would be the following day, and now it was 5:30 pm. The agent came closer and asked, ” Are you okay with me transferring your flight to another airline that flies in one hour? We both were so surprised and immediately said yes, of course. He said, but your luggage might be delayed and come in 1-2 days. I said it’s completely fine. He started working on the computer and called the crew to pull out our luggage and leave it aside for him to go and pick it up. He was working fast as though it was for his own family! He transferred us to another airline without any extra payment and asked me to check in online, but the page was not loading on my phone and kept asking me to pay for the seat. I was about to pay that, but he stopped me. He started checking on his computer and emailed us a boarding pass! At the end, he asked us to run to the gate, which was a bit far. We shook hands with him, and I thanked him a lot. He apologized for his earlier behaviour, and I felt Mohanji cleared something between us. His eyes were very different, and I felt so much kindness from him. 

After a long run, 30 minutes before the flight, we arrived at the gate, which was closed. I asked the agent if we could go in, and he said they’re not boarding yet! Just then, I noticed many people were around and released a big sigh! Something happened that was a sign of Mohanji’s presence in this whole incident. While boarding, we noticed a sign on the body of the plane next to the entrance door saying “One World,” and Mohanji always says “One World, One Family”. Jai Mohanji!! 

The flight was very nice and smooth, and we arrived 3.5 hours earlier than the previously booked flight, which was midnight! The next day, I received an email that the delayed flight was cancelled altogether. It was very obvious who was behind all these miracles. I’m sure we wouldn’t have returned home that day without Mohanji’s blessings. He removed all heaviness and obstacles; we just experienced a breeze instead of a tornado. 

Words fall short of expressing gratitude to Mohanji. Words are too gross to explain his stature and greatness. I keep remembering October 2022 when he had that accident. And he might have left the body, but he stayed out of love and compassion for every being who had hope in him. So I feel grateful every day, every moment he is here on Earth, breathing from the same air and walking on the same Earth. On top of that, we have the blessing to meet him in person here and there. A hundred years later, people will remember us as blessed and lucky ones who had the chance to be in the physical presence of such a Guru even though to me, Mohanji is an Avatar, and I believe it will be revealed just years later. 

A big thanks to Mohanji’s office team for making my experience more pleasant with their love, warmth and support.

Surrender this whole existence, this personality, all experiences and ego at the lotus feet of my Lord, Mohanji Baba.

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 26^th November 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

To register for the next Empowered 5.0 in India, click here!

A magical experience on foot with Mohanji in Chitrakoot

By Madhusudan Rajagopalan and Thea Klincov

November 2022

Introduction

Chitrakoot is well known to readers of the Ramayana [One of the two major epics of Sanatana Dharma (the Eternal Religion)] as the place where Lord Rama (the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu), along with his wife, Mother Sita and brother Lakshman, spent eleven years out of his fourteen-year exile. Even today, the town seems to exist in that bygone era, reminiscing the lost days with every corner adorning a shrine of Lord Rama’s durbar (royal court)– Lord Rama seated in his darbar with Mother Sita by his side, his brother Lakshmana behind him and Lord Hanuman at Lord Rama’s foot.

Chitrakoot has found its way in many a Mohanji conversation over the years. Mohanji wanted to experience this place he calls Lord Hanumanji’s ‘home’ since Lord Hanumanji is ever present where his beloved Master, Lord Rama’s name is chanted. In November 2022, Mohanji was finally able to visit this power centre. This blog is a humble attempt to capture our experiences and insights from this short yet action-packed visit. 

Chitrakoot – A Background

Chitrakoot is a picturesque town nestled amidst forests and hills. The town is replete with images and chants in praise of Lord Rama. Murals with images of the Ramayana adorn the walls while the sacred chants ‘Jai Siya [Siya is Sita in the Awadhi Hindi language] Ram’ (Hail Mother Sita and Lord Rama and ‘Jai Shri Ram’ (Hail Lord Ram) fill the air. The myriad ashrams dotting the town and the throng of saints and mendicants – both local and wandering- on the streets give this town a distinctly spiritual vibe. The beautiful and holy Mandakini river flows through the town, adding to the ethereal feel of the town. 

The centre point of this town is the sacred hill Kamadgiri, where Lord Rama is believed to have lived. Kamadgiri, in Sanskrit, literally means “one that fulfils all desires”; hence, a circumambulation of the base of the hill is considered highly auspicious. Devotees believe that all the teerthas (holy places) lie along the route. 

Chitrakoot is also synonymous with Lord Hanuman’s presence. As is well known, Mohanji loves and reveres Lord Hanuman as an embodiment of the perfect Master disciple for his unshakeable faith and complete surrender, with full awareness of his stature. Mohanji has explained this beautifully in his blog:

“Lord Ram asked Hanumanji, ‘Who are you?’ Hanumanji replied with total humility, ‘Great Lord, if I knew who I was, I might not be serving you.’ What Hanumanji meant was that if he realised who he really was, then there would be no separation from Ram, as Hanuman and Lord Ram are indeed ONE – two aspects of the same consciousness. There is no servant and no master. There is no expectation. There is no separation. Until this realisation happens, this and that, me and that, he and that, and all other kinds and aspects of separation will exist in the mind.”

Though I knew about Chitrakoot since childhood, I had never visited the place myself. I was excited to experience the place in the presence of Mohanji since that usually unravels some new facets beyond the normal. Thea, our photographer/videographer, was even more thrilled about Hanumanji living in Chitrakoot and particularly the prospect of experiencing Hanumanji in a physical form! Her connection with Hanumanji had happened around a year earlier through a story related by her friend following a Mai-Tri session. Mohanji had recounted this story about the power of Hanuman’s devotion in several of his satsangs, but it clicked and changed something in her only after her friend mentioned it. You can get more details of this story here.

Since then, she has considered Hanumanji as the personification of dedication, selflessness and surrender to one’s Guru. He became both an aspiration and an inspiration. Her friend had told her, “Being with Mohanji, doors open. Without him, they just close in front of us.” She felt we would probably meet Hanumanji due to Mohanji’s presence and grace but was concerned if she would recognise him. In her words, “In this world, the fake seems more real than real itself and sometimes real looks fake. We have to keep our eyes open, ready to perceive the imperceptible.”

Humble Beginnings

Chitrakoot is located on the border of two large North Indian states, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, and involves a long road journey (almost 5 hours) from Lucknow airport. One of Mohanji’s followers, who stayed close to Chitrakoot, had been inviting Mohanji to visit Chitrakoot for almost a decade. When Mohanji confirmed his intention to visit, he made all the necessary arrangements and came to receive Mohanji at the airport. We undertook the mostly uneventful road trip after a sumptuous lunch in Lucknow. 

Though Mohanji never seeks special privileges when visiting Masters or power centres, the Tradition ensures to take care of their own. Lord Hanumanji secured extra attention and respect for our group by arranging a car hired previously by local politicians for election campaigning. The ruling party flag on the bonnet with the pictures of the chief minister of the state and the prime minister of the nation on either side was the passport that ensured prompt passage through the intervening checkposts and toll points. Late evening, we reached our cottage in Chitrakoot, welcomed by the gurgling Mandakini stream nearby. Despite the late evening fog blocking the view, the tranquillity was palpable. We settled in, made plans for the next morning and retired for the night. 

The Kamadgiri Parikrama

The following morning brought our first glimpse of the holy Mandakini flowing below our cottages, which were situated on an elevated plateau. The surreal early morning setting of a fading fog permeated with chants from nearby ashrams, the gushing sounds of a flowing river, and the occasional chatter of the people bathing in the river created a serene temple town atmosphere that set the mood for the day ahead. After breakfast, we set out with great anticipation and excitement for a parikrama of the holy Kamadgiri mountain and drove to the starting point, the Shri Kamtanath temple. After offering our prayers, we started our parikrama at 9.45 am and expected to complete the well-paved and largely flat five km path at a very relaxed pace within 90 minutes and return for lunch. 

Mohanji had just returned from his overseas travels and was still recovering from a serious car accident in Europe the previous month, when he has to spend almost 3 days in the ICCU. Despite his weakened state, he continued with his busy program schedule and commitments, which prevented proper rest. This was followed by his travel to India and further travels within India. Hence, we were mindful not to exert him as he was still recovering. Before we started, we asked Mohanji if he would like to take the wheelchair services or similar support. However, Mohanji refused any kind of support and insisted that he would walk the whole path. We reluctantly accepted his decision. We felt there was a greater significance to his decision… this would become evident to us later. 

The pathway of the parikrama begins to the left of the main temple, with many small shrines dedicated to various deities. We stopped to take their blessings; Mohanji’s pilgrimages are always for the well-being and welfare of all the people associated with him and all the world’s beings. We prayed along those lines and started our walk. Interestingly, the last shrine was dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba – a reassuring sight for all of us, signalling Baba’s presence with us through the parikrama.

Since there were many pilgrims walking along the busy parikrama path, we brought two bags of biscuits in preparation to distribute to sadhus (renunciates or mendicants) and other beings. Right opposite the Baba temple, there were many old people sitting on the floor waiting for alms. Usually, there is a mad clamour as people feel that there won’t be enough. As we gave biscuits to a man, he loudly exclaimed, “Don’t worry. Everyone will get it. This gentleman has brought lots of biscuits!” We don’t know if he recognised Mohanji or was a saint in a beggar’s guise, but his words were a proclamation that there would be no denial to anyone under Mohanji’s watch!

As we started the parikrama, we fed every being in sight generously – be it a dog, cat, goat, cow, monkey or a human being. We had bags filled with biscuits and bananas. Our local hosts walked with us and arranged the food items to be distributed. They told us that monkeys loved raw brinjals (eggplant). We bought a few kilograms of brinjals from a nearby vendor and gave them to the monkeys. Soon, demand outstripped supply, and we had to engage another push-cart vendor. Given the rate of our distribution, this vendor joined our parikrama group and walked with us all through the path, supplying brinjals as and when needed!

Normally, monkeys can be quite troublesome and scare people. However, they were in extraordinarily good behaviour in Mohanji’s presence, taking food from our hands like little children unthreateningly. Mohanji constantly fed beings at almost every step. He mentioned that animals respond to us as we do to them. If we approach with fear, they respond with fear and aggressive behaviour. As we operated with love and kindness and fed them generously without fear, they mirrored in kind and behaved like ‘good children’. Mohanji would throw bananas or brinjals to one side of the path or onto the boundary walls to make it easier for monkeys to pick up and eat. Some monkeys connected with Mohanji and had an eye-to-eye conversation before scurrying off. Throughout the parikrama, we observed various such exchanges where animals connected deeply with Mohanji, and we had the blessed opportunity to serve thousands of them.

Encounters between Mohanji and Animals

A few episodes were particularly interesting. One monkey swooped down the parapet wall from a high roof, watched Mohanji intently, approached him and collected his banana in one smooth move without letting the banana fall to the ground. Mohanji casually commented, “No more monkey lives for him. He will take a human birth in his next life!” Later in the parikrama, Mohanji took a small detour to feed a calf, staying with him for several minutes longer than with any other animals until then.

This calf ate from Mohanji’s hand to his heart’s fill. As the calf ate, Mohanji shared that this calf, in an earlier human life, had denied food to someone, falling down the ladder of evolution to become a bull. By feeding the calf with his hands, Mohanji nullified the negative effect of that act and helped him progress to a human birth in his next life. Mohanji remarked, “There were many reasons for coming to Chitrakoot. Meeting this calf today was one of them!”

We were in awe of the dimensions in which Mohanji operates. What we see is not even a micro fraction of what he actually does. On the surface, he fed a calf. However, there was so much grace and compassion that went beyond the feeding. Mohanji always says, “No one comes within my presence unless I have something to deliver.” Who knows what else is happening when a seemingly random stranger meets Mohanji even briefly – what immense grace or eligibility brings them to that moment?

They may not realise it, but it is a reminder that we should. Every moment and interaction with Mohanji is an act of grace and an opportunity to raise one’s awareness and operating levels. Taking Mohanji’s friendly behaviour or casual demeanour at face value and taking his time for granted is the biggest mistake one could make. If we miss the bus, he would be none the lesser, but we would have missed an opportunity that we craved for lifetimes!

Another lesson from the above episodes is treating every being with kindness. Mohanji often says that the Tradition of liberation is so powerful that if even one being yearns for liberation, the Tradition sends a Master to fulfil that desire. When we see a being and dismiss it as just another animal, we are unaware of the karmic background. It could have been an elevated human in a past life that reincarnated as an animal due to karmic pulls.

Perhaps a divine being taking an animal form to meet Mohanji and take prasad (consecrated offering) from him. Or just a being going through the daily struggles of survival, hoping for food from a kind being. The bottom line is that our ignorance has no limits, just like Mohanji’s compassion! Hence, the safest bet is to treat all beings with kindness, or at least with no rudeness. Another of Mohanji’s constant reminders is “Never miss an opportunity to serve another being. God and Guru can come in any form!”

During this walk, Mohanji’s kindness was not limited to feeding animals. Our group encountered several sadhus. Mohanji enquired if they needed anything and a few mentioned blankets, given the onset of winter. Mohanji instructed our local host to arrange for a blanket distribution drive to all the sadhus and elderly beings on the parikrama path and other places in the town, which was subsequently completed within a week.

Mohanji also noticed that the monkeys and other animals were often in conflict with the pilgrims. He felt the hill couldn’t provide enough food for the animals, forcing them to stray into human territory. He asked our local team to arrange fruit tree plantation on the sides of the hills so that the monkeys and birds had plenty of food, removing their dependency on passing pilgrims. This project was taken up by our local team in coordination with the local authorities and completed a few months later, post-winter. In this way Mohanji’s parikrama benefited the beings not just on that day but also on a long-term basis. 

Connecting with the Ramayana

We also had the opportunity to experience the most sacred historical places and stories from the Ramayana. When we began our walk, Mohanji mentioned that he felt Hanumanji would grace us with his darshan (holy sight) during this parikrama. He didn’t specify how or when, so the unsaid message was to keep our eyes and ears open. Stay ‘alert, aware and active’ as Mohanji often reminds us. The parikrama path is dotted with various temples and shrines of either Masters or deities, with many dedicated to Lord Rama and his darbar.

Midway through the parikrama, we entered a big temple out of curiosity. The temple had the square structure of a traditional house, with living quarters around the perimeter and a spacious central courtyard open to the sun. One had to bow down to enter, due to the low height of the door and cross the courtyard to see the main deities.

There was a niche to the right of the house where an old saint was sitting. We went to him and struck up a conversation. We were amazed to discover that he had custody of the original Rama Charita Manas – the translation of the Ramayana from Sanskrit to the local language by the great saint Goswami Tulsidas that made the great epic accessible to the masses! It was an unbelievable surprise as we were not even aware that the original manuscript was intact.

The book was many centuries old. The saint explained that the Rama Charita Manas consisted of multiple books (referred to as kaand in Hindi, which means section) dedicated to different stages of Lord Rama’s life. These books were preserved in three locations. This temple had 2 kaands, while the rest were distributed between the Tulsi mandir (temple) in Varanasi and a temple at Tulsidas’s birthplace, Rajapur. 

The saint fetched the manuscript from his cupboard and laid it on his table, allowing us to touch the well-preserved pages (encased in special sleeves to protect them from decay). He became deeply engrossed, telling us stories of Lord Rama and Lord Hanumanji. Mohanji gestured for us to click pictures of him speaking and particularly to take close-ups of his face. His blue eyes glazed over, becoming almost transparent as he continued talking.

Mohanji listened to him with rapt attention, and a few minutes later, the saint looked away and ended the conversation. We offered him dakshina (an offering to a holy personage, in this case, money), took his blessings and left. As we stepped out, Mohanji asked with a twinkle in his eye, “Did you notice how his eyes changed? Hanumanji spoke to us through him and blessed us.”

I had noticed a change in the saint’s body language, but my awareness was not strong enough to pick up the subtle changes. When we saw the camera photos, the changes were clear, yet it took time for this incident to sink in. Hanumanji had just spoken to us directly! People spend their lives connecting to Hanumanji and yearning for a sign from him. Our proximity to Mohanji allowed us mere mortals to listen to Lord Hanumanji! My head spins at this thought. Though ignorant of this encounter’s import and impact, we knew a deep transformation happened within us!

Outside, to the left of the entrance, were shrines dedicated to Tulsidas and his Guru, Narhari Das, on an elevated platform that required a short climb. Due to paucity of time, we paid our respects, bowed down from afar and continued on our parikrama.

Our next stop was at another non-descript-looking temple. The name board ‘Bharat Milap Mandir’ informed about its significance. This is where the younger brother of Lord Rama, Bharata, met his elder brother during his exile and requested him to return as Ayodhya’s ruler, discontinuing his fourteen-year exile. Being under renovation, we couldn’t see all the shrines.

However, the main attractions in this temple were not the shrines but the gopuram (pyramidical spire) structure in the open courtyard that housed rock slabs with the imprints of the feet of Lord Rama, Bharata, Mother Sita, Lakshmana and Shatrughna (another younger brother of Lord Rama), and Lord Rama’s mother, Kaushalya. It is said that the fiery intensity of mutual brotherly love melted the stones, capturing their footprints for eternity. 

At first glance, one only sees a few stones with imprints. But the story behind the meeting carries incredible lessons. The crown prince, Lord Rama, was asked to go into exile a few hours prior to his coronation by his heartbroken father (King Dasharatha) on the wishes of his second queen, Kaikeyi, to fulfil a promise he made to her. Treating his father’s word as a divine command, Lord Rama instantly leaves the kingdom without a second thought.

His wife Sita and brother Lakshmana follow him since their life had no meaning without Lord Rama. His other younger step-brother, Shatrughna, wants to follow but is asked by Lord Rama to stay behind to take care of his father and his mothers. When his step-brother Bharata (Kaikeyi’s son) returns to Ayodhya and finds out that his mother sent Rama to exile to make him king, he curses his mother and leaves for Chitrakoot to convince his exiled brother Rama to return to the kingdom as the rightful ruler.

Lord Rama, known as Maryada Purshottama Rama (Rama, the lord– epitome or gold standard – of right conduct), counsels and consoles his brother that his father’s words as a parent and king are divine commands for them and cannot be disobeyed. He has to finish his exile, and Bharata has to rule the kingdom. Obeying his elder brother’s words, Bharata agrees to rule the kingdom but decrees that only Lord Rama can be Ayodhya’s king, and he will remain Lord Rama’s mere servant.

He declares that he will serve as Lord Rama’s regent and rule the kingdom on Lord Rama’s behalf until his return from exile. He requests Lord Rama to give his padukas (footwear), carries them on his head with utmost respect and reverence, installs them on the throne in Ayodhya and rules Ayodhya on Lord Rama’s behalf, eagerly awaiting Lord Rama’s return. These padukas are now on a pedestal in Nandigram. 

This story exemplifies the highest principles of right conduct:

• King Dasharath honouring a promise made out of gratitude, no matter the personal cost
• Lord Rama’s complete detachment from the trappings of power
• Lord Rama’s absolute respect for his father and king’s words 
• Bharata’s absolute love and surrender to his elder brother
• Bharata ruling in absentia, keeping duty and purpose above personal desires

Through these lessons, the place transports us from the mere physical location to a portal of profound insights – it just depends on what we choose to see. It also struck me that Mohanji espouses and exemplifies the exact same principles in today’s world, not through mere words but through his actions and his life. This does not require the study of scriptures or epics to understand, but merely listening to Mohanji’s words, watching his actions and following his guidance like our life and beyond depended on it! Though it is really that simple, how much do we really practise? Food for thought, indeed…  

We continued on our way and eventually completed the parikrama. We lost track of time amidst the grand festival of feeding. A mere parikrama and temple visits became a full-fledged interspecies celebration with sadhus, beggars, children and other beings (monkeys, cows, dogs, goats and birds) participating in the festivities, enjoying in unison the food being served to them. In Mohanji’s words, “Feeding the children of Mother Earth is the best way to visit temples and pay respect to the deities.”

We realised that it took us almost four hours. Besides the temples, we had not taken any breaks or rested anywhere. Yet, we felt incredibly light and happy and not the least bit tired. The cleansing in this high-energy location probably explained it. Mohanji seemed visibly contented and happy! He shared a profound message, “Hanumanji is happy, as we made his people happy. I fed these beings generously without any denial, thus cleansing all our people of the sin of denying food to any being, knowingly or unknowingly, at any point in their lives, past or present!” We felt happy hearing this and also for making so many beings happy! A powerful completion for us and for many in our community!

Conclusion

The Chitrakoot visit and the Kamadgiri parikrama provided an opportunity to connect to the Ramayana epic at a very personal level. Living in big cities, we lose sight of the incredible spiritual heritage of ancient, sacred Bharat. Chitrakoot reminded us that wealth is ever-present and accessible to those who make the effort! It was also a gentle yet powerful reminder of Mohanji’s oft-repeated maxim that the purpose of our life is to add value to the world with every waking moment. When we do that, we change the world through our practice, not precept. Practice what you preach, and then your practice becomes the preaching. Go not in search of Masters or God. Touch the lives of all those who come your way, and Masters and God will come in search of you.

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 20^th November 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

To register for the next Empowered 5.0 in India, click here!

A memorable birthday

By Santha Narayanan, Malaysia

My Kailash yatra was the most memorable, with two main wishes getting fulfilled. I totally agree with all the others who travelled with us to Kailash and shared their experiences. With the blessings of Mohanji, it was such a lovely journey with our kind, loving, caring friends with positive vibes and our sherpas.

The most memorable part for me was the five-day stay at the Hyatt Hotel with Mohanji and the homam done on the banks of the Mansarovar Lake. The five days with Mohanji in the Hyatt were blissful and the happiest. The Siva Linga puja, prayers, Rudram chanting & bhajans in the early mornings with Preeti were great. We went to Kailash with all these prayers and blessings from Mohanji, and I know Mohanji was there with us throughout our journey.

The homam was done with so much divinity; no words can describe that feeling. I felt the divinity in each and every one there. The two main reasons for me to sign up for the Kailash Yatra were, firstly, to be with Mohanji; as Malaysians, we hardly get such opportunities. Only once did we meet Mohanji in Malaysia. The other reason was to be at Mansarovar for my 70th birthday on 31st July. I was so happy to be there on that particular day and was able to spend two nights on that wonderful soil. Both my wishes were fulfilled!

Now, the journey to Kailash was a dream come true. I felt so blessed with such wonderful souls around me. It was a wonderful journey, and Kannaiah (another participant) even went to the extent of putting on shoes for me on the bus and made sure that he waited till I got off the bus with ease whenever the bus stopped for lunch or tea.

On the first day of the parikrama, my heart was filled with gratitude. Once I sat on the pony, I thanked Lord Vishnu and Mohanji for giving me such a heavenly opportunity, which I never dreamt possible. It was a wonderful feeling. I loved the gorgeous view as everything looked amazing.

During the journey on the first day, I noticed my pony was taking a very slow walk; she might have felt my low energy level, I suppose. Once we reached Yam Dwar (door of death), I was happy to see my cousin Geetha, Bhavani and Zoran. Bhavani guided us on what to do there. I felt happy to leave something behind and continued my journey.

One thing I noticed after a few hours of my journey was that everything stopped. My thinking mind stopped, thanking God stopped, Mohanji stopped, Om Namah Shivaya stopped, Gayathri mantra stopped. There was emptiness, and I felt like I was just going with the flow. In between, although my porter offered me food and a drink, I just ignored it and refused to drink or eat.

That was the mistake I made in hindsight. Having food and sipping on water was highly emphasized by the sherpas and the Kailash team for overall well-being. When I reached the end of the first day of the parikrama, I felt tired, with a slight headache and weakness. I had difficulty breathing, and almost everyone came to check on me after they returned from their journey.

Oxygen levels were being checked to make sure of each participant’s health. My check revealed low oxygen levels. Just at that time, my daughter called; when she heard that my oxygen levels had plummeted, her advice was not to continue with my journey.

Although my oxygen level was low after the first day of parikrama, I didn’t have any body aches. The only thing that I lost was my appetite to eat and drink, and that made me weak. In the evening, after chanting, I received my first Mai-Tri session from Bhavani. She came in and out of the room to check on my well-being at night. She sat by my bedside chanting the Mohanji Gayatri, and propped me up on pillows to make me comfortable. All these kind gestures cannot be forgotten.

The next morning, as my oxygen levels did not improve, I could not continue with the parikrama as advised by the team. I was to travel back to the hotel in Darchen (base camp for Kailash pilgrims) while the rest of the group continued with their journey forward. The miracle was that while I stayed back in the hotel, by the grace of Mohanji, my health stabilized without a hospital admission.

My co-travellers returned after completing the parikrama and joined me at the hotel. My loving Kannaiah… who went to Gauri Kund (Mother Parvati’s bathing lake) after passing Dolma La Pass (the highest passing of Kailash parikrama), hugged me and said, “Santha Amma, you were with me at Gauri Kund.” It was such an emotional moment for me. I really love him. I was touched as I couldn’t complete the rest of my journey after the 1st day.

Although I was initially sad for not completing the parikrama, I later felt happy that I had spent that one night by the North Face of Kailash. It had been my silent wish, and Mohanji fulfilled this, and I am immensely grateful to him for this. At the age of 70, I set foot on Kailash soil and had the darshan of Kailash and the Mansarovar Lake. I salute our Mohanji and team for organizing such a wonderful, amazing trip to Kailash. Very well organized. Shabas (well done!).

I was blessed to be there with all 26 wonderful souls. I would like to thank Mohanji and each and everyone who travelled with me for the moral support, loving touch and care given. I would also like to thank my dearest Sandra & Asja for giving me a good massage and reflexology therapy even after I tried convincing them I was alright.

Thanking my loving cousin Geetha, who was with me throughout the journey. And Madhusudanji for encouraging me to sign up. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Love you all so much. One of the most memorable trips of my life at the age of 70. 

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 28^th October 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

Eruption of Causeless Laughter

By Biljana Vozarevic, Serbia

Experience during Empowered 5.0 at Mohanji Peace Centre in Obrenovac, Serbia 

17-26th Aug 2023

Sometimes, we work hard for the best results; on the other hand, the best things happen out of the blue, without expectations. I learnt and accepted that, in both cases, we get what we deserve, not what we desire. Life brings us the results of our past actions, whether we are conscious of them or not. During Empowered 5.0 at MPC Obrenovac, Mohanji mentioned many times grateful is graceful. The more gratitude, the more grace we accumulate. And grace is the only thing worth fighting for. It helps a lot on a spiritual journey. 

This was the second Empowered 5.0, taking us deeper than the first one. It was meant to help us withdraw from our senses. That is why consistency is essential. Each Empowered 5.0 takes us deeper within. During the 10-day program of intense spiritual practice, we had an exceptional environment – proper vegan food, sleep, nature, and an energised place with live murtis of Ganesha, Dattatreya, and Shirdi Sai Baba at the venue. And a true Master was there! It would have been a real self-injustice if we hadn’t used these to the fullest. Whatever guidance Mohanji gave, I obeyed sincerely. 

Mohanji’s Omniscience

Mohanji spontaneously showed his omniscience. For example, he called people by their names during the photo session. How did he know their names?! He had never met them in person before. Or even if he did, they were in the audience, and they weren’t introduced to each other in person. He said, “Oh, Tihomir, come,” warmly like to a best friend. Or “Oh, Isidora,…”

Another example was when Devi mentioned how Mohanji noticed that some people had bloated bellies, so he guided her to do pavanmuktasana, a yoga posture for it.

Furthermore, during the morning satsangs, Mohanji said directly, “I see what you are thinking. Your thoughts are crazy. So I prefer not to look at them much. You are here physically, but you are somewhere else in your mind. You think, what is going to be for the lunch. It is a really stupid state to be in.”

Eruption of Causeless Laughter

I followed the new technique as much as I could. Sometimes, I skipped lunch or dinner because I didn’t want to interrupt practice or because I was absorbed within and didn’t hear the call.

I had trained myself earlier to feel the energy within, and now I had enough time to romance it. Breath and I were like two lovers trying to live harmoniously with the heartbeat. There were times when this orchestra was noisy and out of chord, and fortunately, there were times when they played celestial symphonies of inner realms. Then, nothing outside bothered me. I felt like I was floating on a boat on the peaceful sea, with a breeze over my body, and I was astonished when the program organisers said it had been the 10 hottest days of the year. 

On the 10th day, after sitting for so long, I felt like relaxing my body a bit. The moment I touched the floor with my torso and the head, just out of the blue, my heart opened. I was overwhelmed by uncontrolled, ecstatic laughter and tears, like when an innocent baby or a toddler bursts into laughter and giggles. Laughter bordered with crying. Tears were rolling from the corners of my eyes down to my ears. The eruption of laughter, accompanied by crying out of joy, continued and continued, as per my feeling, for about half an hour; it was pure ecstatic bliss beyond time and space!

When I started thinking what it was, it would subside for a breath or two, and then it continued again. Luckily, the eruption was much stronger than my mind, and my heart was able to bear such an explosion. I was addressing Mohanji in these moments with gratitude, gratitude, gratitude for this experience, and I wanted it to last forever!

I had experienced such prolonged ecstatic laughter once at the intensive retreat with Mohanji in Andrevlje and once after Conscious Dancing with Devi during Aarati to Sai Baba, which followed up. But both times, it was triggered by some activity. Here, it came out of silence and as a cumulative effect of the Yoga Nidra marathon with Devi and other processes, enabled by and accompanied by Mohanji’s energy work. He worked on each of us individually, as always. Although retreats are group programs, we always get a customised approach. 

Mohanji says, “Causeless laughter flushes the mind out. The mind cannot stay when there is no cause. The mind thrives on causes. When the mind is flushed out, ego and intellect (logic) are also flushed out. When everything is flushed out, the inside becomes empty. No causes mean no flavours. No thoughts. No agenda. In that empty space, when everything is nullified, fundamental corrections in character and constitution can happen. This is induced by a seeming activity such as laughter. 

However, causeless laughter is equal to the silence of beingness. It is stillness because the mind is still. The mind has no idea what is going on. It is bewildered. Causeless laughter has no pattern or reason. It is not bound by any particular stimuli or even joy. It is based on nothing.

The presence of a higher being or the one who has mastered his mind or a true spiritual personality could possibly affect this experience in a seeker if they drop analysis, judgement and comparison. If the seeker approaches a master with emptiness and no agenda, usually the master delivers them causeless joy. When the seeker approaches the master with a distinct agenda, more often than not, the result will be disappointment. Emptiness is the key here, and the benefit would be unbelievable. 

When joy sprouts from inside for no reason, when the proximity of a master who is empty triggers causeless joy, uncontrollable laughter takes place in the constitution of a true seeker, and it flushes out the mind matter and makes it empty. 

In the empty canvas, the master leaves the seeds of immortality – liberation. It can change habits, character and even life. It can establish silence from the core. It can create magic in life. Causeless laughter has the power of 1000 sincere meditations. Proximity of higher beings and recognising them, experiencing them, feeling them more than seeing them makes this possible.”

Such an experience is unique for me but not limited to a chosen few. In 2015, I remember Raj Sethi wrote about his experience in Scotland. He called it “Laughing Buddha, A Mystical Rendezvous with Mohanji”. He had been a heavy smoker and wanted to give up cigarettes but couldn’t. After that, he stopped smoking.

Another example was Deva, an old man who came all the way from the US to this program. He told us how once he asked Mohanji, “What is bliss?” And Mohanji tapped him on the back a few times. Deva burst into laughter and couldn’t stop laughing. Now, he can remember that experience and where true light is. During the photo shoot, whenever Mohanji gently tapped his back, he couldn’t help but burst into laughter. He continuously emphasised that love is not only inherent within us but also the sole necessity we need to express in our lives. 

It will take me some time to settle and realise what changes have happened on subtler levels in my character and constitution. I feel much more acceptance and deeper relaxation as a result of it. There is definitely more stability, focus and stillness. I would give up 1000 holidays in Turkey, 1000 holidays on Azure Beach, and 1000 holidays in Egypt for one day of being in Mohanji’s divine presence again.

To register for the next Empowered 5.0 in India, click here!

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 7^th September 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

My first darshan of Puri Jagannatha

by Ranjana Balagopalan, India

Jagannatha Swami Nayana Pada Gami Bhavatu Mein

This is a testimonial of my experience during the Mohanji retreat held in Puri in February. I ought to have written this much earlier, but I’d kept postponing it for some reason in the last few months. Then I happened to watch snippets of the Rath Yatra online on 20th June, and after that, I couldn’t stop thinking about that retreat and how deeply it had impacted me.

A few beautiful experiences came my way during those days, all thanks to the immense grace of my beloved Guru, Mohanji. But for now, I’ll write about my first visit to the Shree Jagannatha temple during the retreat. 

I’d wanted to visit the Jagannatha temple in Puri for years, so I was thrilled when I heard that a retreat would be held there. The icing on the cake was that the retreat would include Mohanji’s birthday celebrations. It is hard to describe how I felt during the retreat. Being in Mohanji’s powerful presence, listening to his transformational satsangs, attending the beautiful, sacred homa, and pilgrimages to power spots in Puri and nearby areas – all this together made it one of the most unforgettable experiences for me.

However, on the night that we were to visit the Jagannatha temple for the first time, I was not feeling as excited as I had thought I would. Maybe it was because I’d been a little unwell since morning. While sitting on the bus that would take us to the temple, I was in a somewhat blank state, with no particular expectations or thoughts. The bus couldn’t go up to the main entrance, so at one point, we all got off the bus and began walking to the temple.

As we drew closer to the temple, I looked up at the Neel Chakra (a blue wheel at the top), and after that, I couldn’t take my eyes off it. Every time I had to look away from it, I would feel restless. I didn’t want to keep walking. I just wanted to stand somewhere and stare at the Chakra for some time. But I had to keep up with the group, so I continued walking. And as I neared the main gate, the Simha dwar (lion gate), I realised that something had changed in me in the last few minutes. I felt pulled and overcome by something that I can only describe as a powerful energy vibration.

My mind was empty apart from one word, one name reverberating within me loudly and unceasingly – Jagannatha, Jagannatha!

I felt as though the air and dust in that space were trembling with the force of that name. My eyes continued to dart to the Chakra whenever possible, and for some inexplicable reason, I also kept scanning the night sky above the temple.

We had the highly sacred Mahaprasad before going for darshan, and while eating it, I was frequently overwhelmed with tears, and I felt so grateful for every morsel, as if I had waited for so long for it, and something in me kept saying this was “food from home”.

After that, we hurried to the main shrine, and I felt intense love, gratitude, and excitement with each step. I couldn’t wait to see Jagannatha. It was extremely crowded in the main hall, but I made my way through it with the experience of having travelled by public transport in a bustling city.

At the first glimpse of Jagannatha, I felt a burst of joy and devotion, and I couldn’t stop smiling with happiness despite the crushing crowd. There were initially some people before me, but then I somehow found myself at the front suddenly, with a clear view of the inner sanctum. The priests began to do aarti, and until it lasted, I could have wonderful darshan of the deities.

Then I went towards the back of the hall, where there was the Garuda Sthamba, which devotees were touching and embracing with reverence. On the wall behind, we can still see the indentations of Chaityana Mahaprabhu’s fingers, where he had leaned against it to look at his beloved Jagannatha, and the stone had melted under the heated fervour of his love and devotion. 

One devotee was singing a bhajan beautifully, and though it was in an unfamiliar language, there was such deep love and yearning in his melodious voice that it moved me profoundly. In a corner, an emotional young man was talking nonstop to Jagannatha with what seemed to be a mix of anger, pain and love, tears flowing down his cheeks while his fingers moved on a japa mala. So many devotees were craning their necks and jumping up to get a clear view of Jagannatha. The air frequently resounded with jubilant cries of “Jay Jagannath!” with everyone raising their hands joyfully.

Though I had long wanted to visit the temple, I hadn’t had any deep emotions towards Lord Jagannatha until then. But that had changed in a matter of minutes. I was now experiencing a surreal joy and love for Jagannatha while standing there. I could suddenly understand the devotional frenzy he evoked in people. I could understand why thousands and thousands of pilgrims face numerous hardships to participate in the Rath Yatra.

Only Jagannatha existed for every person in that space. He wasn’t a deity whose idol was made of wood. He was their most adored one, more real to them than beings made of flesh and blood, much closer to them than their family and friends and even their own selves. He was everything to them – without him, they had nothing.

I felt this was love in its richest, most exalted form, and just witnessing and sensing it caused tears to flow down my face continuously. Also, the energy was unbelievable. The atmosphere was pulsating with it. And beneath all the sounds, there was a powerful silence. Overall, it was a realm of pure love, pure energy and pure consciousness.  

And then a crystal-clear realisation flashed within me in that sacred atmosphere.

This is Mohanji in his unbound form. This is Mohanji’s true form. Beyond creation, beyond time, beyond attributes. 

Mohanji is Jagannatha. He is Shiva. He is pure energy, pure love, pure consciousness.

Mohanji is in everyone; he is in everything; he is everywhere.

These thoughts echoed repeatedly in my mind, inducing a profound stillness within. It was as if a veil was pulled from the truth briefly to help me get an inkling of Mohanji’s true form and stature. And I knew the entire unforgettable experience in the temple had come my way only because of Mohanji’s causeless compassion and grace.

Those moments I spent in the temple are still alive in me. And when I feel upset or frustrated about anything, I only need to remember those moments to feel a shift in my emotions and an upsurge of gratitude at having found refuge at the lotus feet of Mohanji, who is the embodiment of supreme consciousness.  

Like Lord Jagannatha during the Rath Yatra, Mohanji walks among us; his arms outstretched to embrace everyone, loving and accepting us just as we are, his eyes watching all beings with intense compassion and lighting the flame of liberation in hearts with a merciful glance.

Om Parabrahmane Vidmahe
Shree Jagannathaya Dheemahi
Tanno Mohana Prachodayat

Editor’s note: Currently, the Rath yatra is happening in this power center – Puri, from 20th June to 2nd July. Mohanji Bharat and Ammucare Charitable Trust are doing Annadaan through a stall. Our dedicated volunteers serve water, Mahaprasad, and first-aid to the millions of people visiting this place. 

Join us in spreading love and kindness as this service continues until 2nd July. To donate, please visit 

Donation for Puri Rath Yatra

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 26^th June 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

When Soul Meets Source

By Meghan Rose, USA

On March 4th, I landed in Bengaluru, India, for the Himalayan School of Traditional Yoga Training. It was my first time out of the USA. I traveled with a classmate and arrived in India with a fresh mind, as I had not googled much about India before. I didn’t even know what it would look like! I wanted to be surprised. When I stepped foot out of the airport, It was after midnight. We got into a cab, and I was mesmerized by how everything looked. To my surprise, I did not feel I was in a foreign place at all. In fact, I have felt more foreign in places in the USA than I have in India.

During the cab ride, I couldn’t get my mind off Mohanji. Knowing he was in the same city as me, I began really yearning to be around him. I started to tell my friend in the cab about how recently I really wished to hear Mohanji’s voice. You know that feeling when you just wish to hear a loved one’s voice. It was like that. I longed to receive a voice message from Mohanji saying I love you.

A couple of days after this yearning, I was doing the Power of Purity meditation with headphones in my ears. A few minutes into the meditation, my body got extremely hot to the point I felt I should take my shirt off! Suddenly Mohanji’s voice did not feel like a recording anymore. I could feel him speaking deeply into my ears! I knew then that Mohanji had fulfilled my desire in an unexpected way.

When I told my friend of this, I got the idea to send Mohanji a voice message myself. I was hesitant as I had heard some doubts of others before. They were scared to message Mohanji. But I told myself that I should conquer this fear and tell him I am thinking of him and I love him. What is there to lose? The only thing I could gain was regret if I did not take this chance. So I sent him a message a couple of hours later.

The yoga training commenced, and I was wondering if I was going to get a chance to see Mohanji. Four days after the training, we were told we would take the evening off and see him. I was so excited and crying! I had only seen Mohanji in person once before and went to his ashram with no expectations. When I arrived in front of the house, I could not feel my legs! I took my shoes off, and the moment I went inside and saw him, my soul took over.

All my moves were automatic, flowing. I kneeled at his feet and held his hands as if they were a magnet for mine. We were smiling at each other like little kids, and I told him I loved him. He said it back! He must have known I wanted to see his altar because he then told me to take a look at it. We sat down with a group of people, and a satsang commenced. I waited patiently for my turn to speak. I had a lot of courage this time around. When I was speaking with him, I could not take my eyes off him. I was sweating a lot but not uncomfortable.

Between him speaking with others, he would turn to look and smile at me, and my heart would burst with happiness! It was amazing. We took a break, and it was time to eat. Even him asking if I was hungry and showing me where the bathroom was something I can’t explain in words. I felt extremely loved and cared for, more than I ever had felt in my life. This was different. It did not feel like the type of love you receive from a family member, friend, or anything.

After the satsang, he offered to take some photos. He must have known I wanted one because he just called me to him. I put my arm around him, and again my soul took over! I immediately kissed his chest and possibly his cheek. At one point, I was facing one way, and he stood next to me facing the other way. I looked down at his hand and felt the magnetism. I held it, and it felt like the most romantic moment of my life. Not like the typical relationship romance, but really pure.

Soon it was time to leave, and he stood in front of me, looking down at me and smiling. All I could say was I love you very much. He told me he was with me and blessed me. We left, and I was totally blissed out. I shared my feelings with everyone in the group, and I did not want to stop thinking about it. I started yearning for more time with him. I wasn’t sure when he would leave the body, and I just wanted to be able to experience living with him.

My friends assured me that I would get my chance, but still, I was yearning for it. The yoga training finished, and I badly wanted to go back to India. So I booked another flight and a longer stay in Bengaluru. Some time had passed, and one night I was telling my dad how badly I wanted to be around Mohanji again. But I wasn’t sure; would he want me around just cause I wanted to be with him? Would it require me to do some work?

The next morning, I received a reply from Mohanji about my voice message! He told me he would possibly be in the USA soon, and I told him I would like to come be with him. But I knew I would be back in Bengaluru in April, so this was my chance. I told him I would be in Bengaluru again and that I would like to see him. He told me I was welcome anywhere and everywhere with him. Then he told me I was his family. I knew he had heard my thoughts and was answering a really sincere call of mine.

A week after landing in Bengaluru again, I arrived at Mohanji’s place. One night, we spoke privately, and I told him about my thoughts on wanting to see him. He told me that he received them and confirmed he had answered my request! I also shared how magnetic it felt to be around him back in March, and he was smiling. He told me that is what happens when the soul meets the source. The reason why I share these things is because 1. I wish to express how amazing it felt to have my soul take over around Mohanji in March and 2. In case other people are sharing their doubts on whether or not to speak to Mohanji, not being sure if they should see Mohanji… if YOU want to, you should take that chance!

It is really now or never, and we don’t know how wonderful it can turn out! I could have missed such wonderful experiences and opportunities if I listened to other people’s fear of speaking to him. Our experiences can be very different from others. What is there to fear? Whatever he would tell us would be for our own benefit because he really loves us! Take the chance; give your heart out. Love consciousness! 

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 11^th May 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

Nila Aarti with Mohanji

Surya Sujan, India

Surya Sujan, a dear friend and follower of Mohanji shares her recent experience with Mohanji during the Nila Aarati that took place in Kerala in January 2023.

For participating in the Nila Aarti, Sreeja, her son and I travelled from Kannur by the 5 am train. Sreeja and her son were there to get the Shaktipat and meet Mohanji. We reached the Nila Aarti venue by eight o’clock. Devadas, his family, and I helped set the stage at the venue. Mohanji also reached the hotel, which was near the venue where the event was going on. Soon the guests and those who had registered for this event started arriving. 

By 9 am – 9: 35am, I went to the hotel with Vipin Kudiyath because I wanted to meet Mohanji. I wanted to welcome him.   I was planning to surprise Mohanji, as Mohanji didn’t know I was coming to Palakkad for the Nila Aarti and this was the third time I was going to see Mohanji, so I didn’t tell him I would be coming. When I knocked on the door and went in, Mohanji was sitting alone. We had a great hug with lots of love from Mohanji. I was so happy. I felt the love as if it came from my mother, my Guruji, or my friend.

We then went to the Nila Aarti event. The Nila Aarti is celebrated on the banks of the Nila River located at Cheruthurti, Paangavu Shiva Kshetra, Trichur, Kerala. From that time onwards, I was with Mohanji. I managed the entire program as Mohanji instructed me to take the lead. We were seated in the first row. After the ‘Ashtapathy’ rendition, Mohanji was seated in a grand chair on the stage and the satsang began.

Initially, I was sitting with Mohanji, and I felt uncomfortable sitting in the same level as the Guru. I slowly tried to sit at the second-level seating position. But Mohanji indicated for me to remain seated next to him. The Nila Aarti was powerful to witness in the presence of Mohanji.

We had our lunch together at Mohanji’s insistence and were the first to have lunch. Then he told me that he had a meeting with Moksha Trust and I (Surya) should go to the room and wait for him there. I said I’d be waiting for him at the banks of Nila because I wanted to arrange the lamps – to pour oil on the wicks. I went straight from there with Sreeja. It was a huge surprise for me that Sreeja, with her four young, vibrant team from Ernakulum had come to volunteer.

Chitra, myself, Sreeja and her teams arranged the earthen lamps on the banks of Nila by 6 pm. Around 6.15 pm, Mohanji arrived and we welcomed Mohanji. A good concert of music and dance highlighting the importance of river Nila, followed by a Kathakali recital on Ashtapathi padam was organised. Mohanji then gave a brief speech that was direct, and precise regarding the importance of a river, the importance of a river to a human being and how it affects our lives etc. It was a powerful and succinct speech by Mohanji.

I had booked my return ticket along with Mohanji, but my booking was in another coach. Mohanji called me over the mike and said it was very late. Devadas came to say that Mohanji was calling me for dinner. I sat next to Mohanji for dinner as well. I feel so blessed and touched that Mohanji assigned various tasks that needed to be done and he wanted me next to him. I don’t know what connection I have with him that he gives me so much love and importance in front of everyone. After we had dinner, there was cake cutting. I washed Mohanji’s plates and we left together for the hotel where Mohanji and I had an important talk regarding some other things. After the HSTY yoga trainer left, I told Mohanji to rest or take a short nap. I set the alarm and took care of the other needed arrangements.

While Mohanji was resting, I read the small Gita book he had gifted me. I had just finished the preface and the first chapter when Mohanji woke up. It was 10 pm. Mohanji said, “Let us go. The train is at 11pm.” Soon Vipin, Mohanji and I came to the railway station, got into the train, and settled in our berths. My stop was Kannur, and the train would stop there at 2:00 am. Mohanji said it was an odd time to get off the train and that I should join him and go to Udupi. But I had not told my family about this and my car was parked at the Kannur railway station from the previous morning five am. So I said, “Mohanji, I’ll meet you at Palakkad on January 31.”

At two o’clock, I got down from the train after prostrating at his Lotus feet and quickly got into my car. While I was starting the car, somebody came and asked me to slide the window down. He said, “Your left wheel has a puncture.” I was shocked! He said, “Actually I was waiting for you, chechi. Your car was punctured early in the morning itself. We didn’t have your number. How can you go at this time? So I got a number from some other guy who can change the tyre with a spare tyre. I said, “I can’t sit here. Nobody’s here.” He said, “No. Don’t worry. You sit in this tent, and in the meantime, we’ll call the car mechanic and get your car fixed.”

There was no policeman around. Nothing was there on that quiet night besides a shed in the parking area. As I sat in the tent, after about 10 to 15 min, the mechanic came to fix the car. It was just the parking attendant, the repair guy and me in the parking lot. And this was because I had told the parking attendant man who was on night duty the day I boarded the train that I would arrive at 2 am early the next day, and the kind man was waiting for me after finishing his morning duty. He waited for me in the parking lot, not only to inform me that my car tyre had a puncture but also had rallied someone to repair my car. He said, “If you can repair it now, it will be fine. Otherwise tomorrow in the hot sun and this heavy traffic you can’t do all these things here. So I waited for you!” In 10-15 minutes, the repairman changed the car stepney.

Early that morning, we travelled to Shornur and were in the AC coach of a train, the 15th coach from the engine. Two elderly ladies aged 79 or 80, somehow got into the AC coach with three big bags as they could not locate their coaches. The elderly ladies sat down and desperately tried to figure out their seats, not knowing they were not in their allotted coaches. When I saw their tickets, I mentioned that their coach was closest to the engine, 14 coaches away from the current one. It was difficult for them to make their way to their coach with their pieces of luggage on a moving train.

As the elderly women reminded me of my mother, I carried their bags to their coach, helped them to their seats, and then returned to my seat. Everyone watched me walk up and down to help these elderly women including the Governor of Goa, Sridharan Pillai. I came back half an hour or 20 minutes later, fully drenched in sweat, but I helped them.

One of the elderly ladies told me, “You are like God to me!  Jesus himself has brought you to help us.” I said, “You deserve this help. It could be Jesus or Allah or any God! But you deserve this help because you are like my mother,” and returned to my seat. What you sow, so you reap! That’s probably why the guy in the parking lot waited for me till 2 am and also arranged a mechanic to change the car tyre.

I wonder who is orchestrating all this behind the lines. In Mohanji’s talk, he said, to accept our karma, accept ourselves and be a role-model to the society and our children. The parents should be role-model to children as children imbibe or follow the actions of the parents. This was a wonderful opportunity to serve two elderly people considering them as my parents.

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 16^th February 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

Consciousness

by a Mohanji follower

After experiencing a myriad of wonders and pleasures, there came the point where I was at the lowest ebb of life. All that was held precious until then started collapsing. It dawned that every privilege and experience came with an expiry date. Then a question arose, “What is it? What is the ultimate nature of existence? What is it that lies at the core of everything?” This question pierced in such a way that life seemed to have no value without experientially knowing it.

One night, while sitting on a sofa in a relaxed mood, something took over, and the awareness started travelling inward. So many things ranging from magnificent to ugly began to surface within the mind at an overwhelming pace. So many impressions that did not make logical sense were coming to the awareness and leaving. It was as if something was purging the mind and the intensity of it was unbearable. 

Sometime later, the awareness went beyond the muddle of thoughts and emotions. As a result, the mind appeared like a third person and was unbelievably complex. To give an analogy, the mind appeared to have a million chambers, and each chamber seemed like a world in itself. It also gave the impression that multiple lifetimes could be erased with the awareness trapped just within a few chambers of the mind. 

After this, the awareness reached the energy layer. Here it looked like the entire being was occupied with various energy patterns. These energy patterns seemed to be the repository of information. These patterns were actively moving and dispensing the information to the body and mind, making them work in a particular way. At this point, it was also visible how a meeting of two beings/entities results in their energy patterns getting mixed, merging and growing in complexity.

Sometime later, the awareness penetrated even deeper. Here it was pure, dynamic energy, which was formless and flowed like electricity. It was moving effortlessly and activating all the energy patterns present within the being. It came across as the root energy whose graceful dance within an individual keeps them alive and functioning. 

For some time, only this dynamic energy remained in the awareness and nothing else. A little later, the awareness advanced further and touched the source of this dynamic energy. The source appeared to be just Nothingness. The moment the awareness came in touch with that Nothingness, it occurred that this is my true self (it is like a self-revelation, not that you think and say, this is me). I was screaming in awe, that’s it? That’s it! This Nothingness appeared to exist at the core of everything. 

We commonly refer to this as Consciousness, as it is conscious of everything. At that very moment, the awareness grasped the fact that an individual is never born, never dies, but always remains in its essence as the eternal Consciousness. This is why all the Masters say, “You are Consciousness,” “You are what you are looking for!” or simply put, “You are that!” 

Consciousness looked absolutely still, with no movement whatsoever. In the lap of that absolute stillness, there was no experience of time but that of just timelessness and being one with everyone and everything around. Only at the surface (physical level) was there an experience of separation, but at the core, there was only union. There was no such thing as multiple Gurus, Guru-disciple, good or bad, and superior-inferior; in other words, all duality disappeared at the level of Consciousness. We are, in our truest essence, that Consciousness; in reality, we are all one.  

Consciousness was like an all-pervading canvas that projected many forms and bodies which interacted with one another. Although it is the source, it appeared non-interfering, still, and as a witness to the entire creation. This glimpse of Consciousness gave me an opportunity, and a peek into the process of creation. 

To briefly summarize what was observed, pure dynamic energy emerged out of Nothingness/Consciousness. Then it took various geometric shapes and patterns, repeatedly forming to a certain point where it became multiple concentrated energy patterns. It was indicative that these concentrated patterns transformed into the physical matter over time. When the dynamic energy flowed through the newly formed physical matter, it activated it, and a new life was born. Thus, the overall impression was that all the physical creation we see emerges from that Consciousness and dissolves back into it.  

After tasting Consciousness, the awareness returned to its previous state in the early hours of the next morning. A few hours later, the following was posted as Mohanji’s quote of that day. 

In retrospect, it was quite apparent how much love and work goes behind a transformation of a person when he/she connects to a Master (one with Consciousness). Mohanji’s work resulted in my awareness hurling inward, peeling layer after layer of creation until it touched the very source, the Creator. This is the inner Master, or the true self, that lies in all of us. Once a person finds it, his/her search comes to fruition. Many questions a seeker encounters on the path simply crumble or cease to exist.

A seeker, at some point in their life, might experience a feeling of stagnation. The mind can give a false impression of no progress, or worse, it can make one believe there is no such thing as Consciousness and that we have been chasing some mirage all along. 

This brief experience of Consciousness uprooted all such doubts and uncertainties and led me to walk the path with absolute conviction. The reality is that every seeker is moving towards Consciousness, a state of unfathomable freedom. This should be a reassurance to all of us walking on the path. A Master who has already attained Consciousness is working out every possible way to move the seeker toward Consciousness. We should just hang on to the Master with immense gratitude for carrying us. 

I want to thank Mohanji and all the other great Masters and evolved beings who have given themselves, held my hand and led me to experience the all-pervading Consciousness. Truly grateful to all of them. 

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 2^nd February 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team

Mohanji within me

by Meghan Rose, USA

During the evening part of my daily sadhana, I face a tapestry of Shirdi Sai Baba and an image of Mohanji. Around the last week of December, when I would do my sadhana, I would look into the tapestry and get the feeling that Baba is myself, and I am Baba. On December 28th, Baba’s presence was with me the entire time I did the sadhana.

The next night, I was in the car driving back from my dad’s, and I got the similar lovely feeling I had the night prior. I parked my car, closed my eyes and took in the beautiful sensation. I began to feel Mohanji inside of me. I had a vision of him sitting inside my body; he was meditating in this blue ball or aura. It disappeared quickly.

I tried so hard not to get my mind involved in this experience. My mind began wondering what if my neighbours saw me sitting in my car, but the feeling was too lovely to leave! At one point, I even tried to turn my neck, and it was like my spine wouldn’t let me. I knew I could move but at the same time…. Could I?

I simultaneously felt that I was in Mohanji while Mohanji was in me. I started to get the sensation that I was Mohanji.

I then felt this sensation on my scalp, like something was about to be pulled away. I wondered if my personality was going to go. I felt that it would be like death; my mind/personality would be gone. Not a death in the sense of me leaving the body. I could feel something in my head physically, almost being removed. My mind presented its concern about what would happen if it was not there, and at the same time, I was begging to continue feeling that connection. I didn’t want the feeling of Mohanji inside me to leave.

I then felt from my heart Mohanji say he would never leave me. It wasn’t an auditory experience. In fact, there was only silence. It was something from inside me that I was able to know. I could also feel the sensation of wanting something to be pulled away from the back of my spine, too, like the sensation of taking off a tight t-shirt. I wanted it to be gone! Get it off me! Please. It may not be time yet.

I couldn’t help but not want to move and continue with my experience. Still, I felt I should go upstairs, as if that was the solution preventing my mind from bothering me about the neighbours seeing me sit in my car with my eyes shut. I came into my room and stood before my photo of Mohanji, then closed my eyes. I could see myself in white clothes and Mohanji also in white clothes; he was standing a little behind me, to the right. We were in bright white light!

If you have met me, you know I am very short. I am only 4 feet 9. But at that moment, I felt BIG, taller, and expanded. Even though I am shorter than Mohanji in height, it felt like we are energetically equal. I felt more of myself; it was different again than how things feel in the waking state when I am distracted by something outside of me. The waking state is so heavy and dense. Things go fast. But in this sensation, there was no sense of time. I noticed it was only my mind keeping track of the time because I still needed to do my daily sadhana!

Before, I couldn’t understand how to look inside and see the Master there. After seeing him sit there in my chest, I understand why he says don’t look for him outside. Since this night, things have been changing inside me. Things have been changing for a long time, but after this night, a series of events kept occurring. After I saw him meditating inside me, I started to feel his presence more and more from within.

The following week, January 5th, I started a new part of my sadhana. I had a candle lit as I did mantra japa. I gazed into the flame and laughed, remembering how Mohanji said he did the same when he meditated. I felt I’m following in the footsteps of my Master. I then got the sensation of a hand on my head. I could feel the fingertips along my scalp. The grip became strong. I closed my eyes and knew it was Mohanji. This love pierced my heart, and I cried. Love was growing in my heart; I also began to do the Power of Purity. My heart has been expanding over days and weeks. I feel a sense of peace and stillness inside, and I feel very connected to all from my heart centre.

As some may have noticed, I also became insanely inspired out of the blue. I started to make videos of Mohanji and his quotes. I did not plan this out prior. I just did it spontaneously. I am falling in love with spontaneity. When I began making the posts each day, more internal changes inside me would take place, and other quotes would appear that matched exactly what I was processing the night before. Some synchronicities have been occurring.

When I have a realization from within, not long after that, I would see Mohanji’s quote posted saying the same thing. So I make a post out of it. For example, I felt very empowered to begin speaking about Mohanji. Talking about Mohanji is something I do almost 24/7 with people who talk to me. But this is the first time I have done it with a social media platform. I felt really good to be showcasing it more online.Talking about Mohanji is talking about my own self, life and heart. We can make our Guru’s message and presence available everywhere without expectations. We can do it out of the sheer love that we have.

Around this time, I saw a quote by him saying, “The easiest thing to do for liberating oneself in this world is to spread the message of our loving Guru while spreading the love with our very existence unconditionally. Your personal wealth has nothing to do with it. If you are afraid to talk about your Guru, who gave you himself, you are a hypocrite. Grace will not enter your doorway. Hypocrisy prevents grace.” That is a big confirmation for me that I will keep going.

I made a video out of that quote I mentioned above, and as I was making it, I asked Mohanji to select the music because I couldn’t decide. Somehow it got picked, and I thought to myself how much better it feels when there is a sense of togetherness, Mohanji making the videos along with me or even through me! Again, I saw a quote not long after that where Mohanji mentioned the joy of togetherness and non-doership.

One night this week, I was asking Dattatreya, Mohanji and the Tradition to protect me, cleanse me, and do something with me! The Tradition is my family, and I wish to be part of it, doing something for the Tradition. Hours later, a Mohanji family member saw my posts and asked me to make some for MyDattatreya platform. I agreed! I made the first video for it and started to feel very connected to Datta, from the heart and not the mind. Actually, the feeling of connectedness I get in my heart about Mohanji and Datta is the same. There’s no difference in the feeling in my heart.

A couple of days later, I was walking home and decided to cross the street, meaning I didn’t use the crosswalk to get to my apartment. A couple of moments before that, I thought about how we shouldn’t be scared of any negative forces as we are protected. I didn’t see any cars, so I took a few steps. What I didn’t notice was the fact that to the left, a car was making a turn towards me. But a parked mail truck was on the way, and I couldn’t see the car coming. I thought the road was clear. The car came right towards me; her car was going towards the sidewalk and not straight into the road. I backed away, and the lady even had to turn her wheel quickly not to hit me.

In the past, when such things happen, I would feel a sense of guilt or worry after that. “How could I have been so stupid?” But this time, things were different. I felt an insane amount of peace and stillness inside my heart. I felt that Mohanji had just saved my life. I asked for protection, and I truly got it. I could feel this certainty inside my heart. I was actually so happy to have experienced that. I really feel it inside my heart. I am changing. I can’t describe the feeling and will leave it at this for now. I’m nothing but a child of the Tradition. My life is for them! 

Mohanji, I wish to dedicate this post to your consciousness. And I really thank you for your presence which is turning me towards my true nature. You sparked inspiration inside of me, and I’m grateful for you. I love you so much. You are my life. Spreading the word of God has sparked so much joy and courage inside of me. This sensation that has awoken my heart makes so many other silly things not worth anything. The words of George Harrison from his song, ‘Your Love is Forever’ describes what I mean as well, “I feel it and my heart knows you’re the one guiding light in all, your love shines on, the only lover worth it all, your love is forever.” 

|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 26^th January 2023

Disclaimer:

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these blogs are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Mohanji, Mohanji Foundation, it’s members, employees or any other individual or entity associated with Mohanji or Mohanji Foundation. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of any information presented by individual authors and/or commenters on our blogs and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

We reserve the right to delete, edit, or alter in any manner we see fit blog entries or comments that we, in our sole discretion, deem to be obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, in violation of trademark, copyright or other laws, of an express commercial nature, or otherwise unacceptable.

Mohanji Testimonials team