On 20th November 2020 – I had penned down thoughts on Facebook – ‘When you are on the path of truth and light, people trying to silence you is only a test. Naturally, the universe provides another avenue. The universe always listens. Power of pure intention! Stay positive and hold on to hope. Naïve, I had no idea the gravity of this statement and the possibility of my life changing.
How did this statement arise? Let me take you back to 2019 when I started to find that I was detaching from the Foundation I was associated with. I was starting to understand the unity of the Guru Mandala. I felt like all Masters are One. I found myself letting go of the Outer Guru and started focusing on the Inner Guru. As this occurred, I started to let go of seva roles associated with the Foundation. And when the living Master came to my doorstep, I was physically unable to attend his program.
On an occasion in 2020, I found myself in a situation where I was being silenced by members of that Foundation. I was disgruntled. I was already looking inward, and this was the final push to cut ties. Hindsight shows that I wasn’t being silenced, but I was, in fact, guided towards silence, and I was taught to stand by my truth. Standing up for my truth didn’t mean that I had to argue with anyone. It just meant trusting myself.
However, with everything that happened, I was deeply hurt, and I started to believe that the Master’s teachings were separate from the Foundation (disciple-led). I didn’t want to ever belong to any Foundation again. Truth be told, my time was up there, and I was no longer aligned with that frequency.
During that time in 2020, NellyAnne directed me towards Devi’s podcast. Devi gave me hope. She gave me a glimpse into her life, empowering me to ask more from my life. I was tired of my mundane life. I deserved better. Somehow, I thought that I could do this with my own practices. The presence of various Kaliyug Datta Avatars was coming to my awareness, and in particular, I started connecting to Sripada SriVallabha.
It was May 2022, and my friend Jumri excitedly told me about Mohanji’s upcoming visit. When she asked me to come with her, I couldn’t say no. There was no hesitation. There was no doubt. I just had to go. I met Mohanji on 15th June 2022 in the beautiful Skanda Vale Ashram in Wales. He acknowledged my presence from the very first meeting. And this wasn’t just my experience; everyone I know had the same experience. He takes the time for each and every person. It’s his sheer kindness acknowledging every person who comes to him who wants to be in his presence.
During this trip, while conducting a Satsang, Mohanji mentioned Sripada and having recorded the Siddha Mangal Stotra. I was gobsmacked. Mohanji was talking about the Stotra I had grown to love. I was fervently asking around for this chant in Mohanji’s voice, but no one knew what I was talking about, and no one heard Mohanji talking about Sripada in the Satsang. Mohanji was, of course, up to his usual mischief, drawing me in.
Attending the June 2022 Retreat in St Albans, UK, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the sincerity, solidarity and transparency of the UK team. Shyama became my go-to person; she patiently helped me answer many questions, always with a smile on her face. Her gentle nature glows with the epitome of selflessness. Inevitably, I found myself engaging and participating in activities every so often.
In January 2023, I signed up to go to the Divine Trails of Puri. I was dissatisfied with the accommodation; I felt I was being cheated and messaged Subhasree regarding this. I was ready to cancel my trip even if it cost me. I felt I had to stand up for myself and speak my truth. Subhasree called me up and spoke to me. She cleared every single doubt for me with kindness and compassion. I was not being silenced. I was given a choice to reconsider my planned trip.
She is a pure, selfless being who wanted to give the participants the best possible experience as per Mohanji’s direction. I was witnessing Mohanji’s teachings being followed in their entirety! The impression inside me of the Foundation being separate from the Master was firmly wiped clean. For completion, Mohanji ensured the dissolution of this impression as I was invited to join the UK team actively a short while later.
Honestly, I was sceptical of the trip, but I trusted Mohanji, and I walked with his hands onto the divine abode of Jagannath Puri in February 2023. The trip was beyond special. The care, love, and kindness the Mohanji volunteers showed blew me away. This was my introduction to the Mohanji Global Family.
The memory that I must share about this trip involves the visit to Shri Jagannath Temple. Only Hindus are allowed to go into the famous Temple, but as I was menstruating, I couldn’t go. Most participants left to eat dinner or go to the Temple. Somehow, I could do neither, so I went back into the Satsang hall and surprisingly saw Mohanji giving Shaktipat to some people leaving the program early. I sat down and watched him and suddenly started crying in complete admiration, inwardly begging for liberation. I cried to my heart’s content.
When Mohanji was leaving the hall, he was looking the other way as he passed close by me. I didn’t attempt to stand up; I was glued to my chair. Before I knew it, boom, I felt a hand land on my head, blessing me! It was Mohanji’s hand. I couldn’t believe it. I was so surprised. I was in awe. In awe of Mohanji. In awe of the Tradition. What divine, perfect orchestration! I’m so grateful!
Two evenings later, there was no Satsang. And the opportunity to go to Shri Jagannath Temple arose. Miraculously, there was no sign of my period that day, even though it was my third day. Temples don’t normally interest me, but being so famous, I thought it was best not to miss the golden opportunity. Boy, was I glad because, 1km perimeter away from the Temple, my heart started to expand multifold, full of light beaming within, and I became acutely aware of the energy of the Temple.
I didn’t feel this before when I did the parikrama from the outside with non-Hindus a couple of days before. I was amazed at this Leela. It was close to 10 pm when we got to the Temple, and the energy was simply ginormous. It was amazing. It was incredible to sit and meditate inside the Temple. I was beaming with an energy unknown to me in this lifetime, yet so familiar, feeling so bright and alive. I am so grateful to Mohanji and the Tradition for giving me such an experience.
There were no signs of my period the next morning, but later that night, I found my period returned. It’s still mind-boggling and scientifically unexplainable. Mohanji took care of everything intricately. What did I do to receive so much love? I’m just so grateful for each and every experience. Only writing it all out has shown me how interconnected these moments were.
It’s funny; for several years, I’ve had all these wishes of being in close proximity to a living Master; I can barely muster the courage to say anything to Mohanji in his physical presence. Embracing his teaching of ‘Be You’, perhaps it will happen soon.
As I looked back on the quote of 20th November 2020, the universe did indeed open new doors for me, so benevolently, if I may say so. I have found my home. I offer my complete gratitude and obeisance to both Mohanji and Devi, who represent Lord Datta and Anagha Laxmi to me. They have changed my life. Thank you to each of the beautiful Mohanji family I have connected with – you have changed my life. May we all merge into the consciousness of whom we love so dearly.
|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 21st December 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.
My initial inclination to embark on the Kailash pilgrimage alongside Mohanji began as a modest aspiration. The desire prospered significantly as I delved into accounts of past Kailash with Mohanji journeys and absorbed various testimonials recounting profound experiences. It became apparent that a pilgrimage to Kailash was inevitable for me; otherwise, it would linger persistently. In 2019, I resolved to undertake the journey. However, due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kailash Yatra was put on hold. The next opportunity arose in 2023 when the program resumed. Without hesitation, I promptly applied.
During this period, a few individuals also mentioned Dev Kumbh. Completing a parikrama during Dev Kumbh is equivalent to doing it 12 times, rendering one eligible for the Inner Kora. The next Dev Kumbh was scheduled for 2026. The suggestion to wait until then crossed my mind, but uncertainties about the future compelled me to seize the present opportunity.
The program was meticulously organised, providing details about essential items to purchase, their purpose, and the situations in which they would be used. The organising committee of the Mohanji Foundation offered clear explanations during Zoom sessions, addressing doubts and questions about the program. Equipped with this information, I felt prepared for the Kailash Yatra. Interestingly, I did not undertake any specific fitness preparations for the program.
We had 27 individuals expressing their desire to embark on the pilgrimage, hailing from diverse locations such as the UK, USA, South Africa, Australia, Serbia, Bosnia, Croatia, and more. When all the participants gathered, it was remarkable how we instantly felt like a cohesive family – a unified group with a beautiful sense of togetherness. The atmosphere consistently radiated positivity, contributing to a fantastic experience.
Our time in Kathmandu was delightful as we explored local temples like Pashupatinath and the Vishnu temple. Mohanji’s presence was a constant guiding force, answering our queries through satsang. He shared meals with us, including breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner. Even when he skipped dinner, he would sit with us for a chat, creating a terrific sense of camaraderie. This marked the first program where Mohanji spent extensive time with participants, ensuring everyone was mentally prepared for the journey and addressing all inquiries.
Several key points from Mohanji are worth highlighting:
● Completing the pilgrimage involves visiting Mansarovar, taking a dip (if possible), and gazing at Kailash. Anything beyond completing the parikrama is considered a bonus. Participants were reassured not to worry if they couldn’t go beyond Mansarovar.
● Considering the higher altitude and reduced oxygen levels, Mohanji advised a cautious approach. From walking to other activities, everything should be done slowly to conserve energy and prevent over-exertion.
● Mohanji emphasised the group’s participation in a Homa at Mansarovar, selecting Kannaiah for the ritual and ensuring he was well-prepared.
Participants had numerous questions, and Mohanji patiently addressed them with clarity. He also underscored that while individuals had varying fitness levels, mental stability and willpower were the crucial factors for the Kailash Yatra and completing the parikrama. This sentiment resonated with my own experience.
After completing the visa formalities required to enter Tibet, our Yatra commenced from Kathmandu. The bus journey to the Tibetan border at the Friendship Bridge spanned nearly eight hours, beginning in the morning with Mohanji’s blessings. By evening, we arrived at the border after a challenging 10-hour drive. Some of us, including myself, experienced motion sickness during the journey, but we were given Mai-Tri by our fellow traveller, Moushumi, which definitely had a healing effect on me as I felt better once we settled into the hotel.
The following morning, after a restful sleep, our task was to proceed to the border and complete the necessary formalities, which took some time with the Chinese authorities but was accomplished relatively smoothly without any complications. We all took a sigh of relief, with a silent thanks to Mohanji. Subsequently, we crossed the border, and a Chinese guide joined our group, accompanying us full-time in Tibet. Our journey continued by bus to Gyirong (3000 m), where we aimed to acclimate to higher altitudes daily. Gyirong provided a picturesque setting with abundant vegetation and good oxygen levels. We kept active by going for walks and maintained high energy levels through nightly sessions of Mohanji aarati and bhajans.
As we progressed, the journey to Saga presented a significant challenge due to its higher altitude of around 4660 meters and the absence of vegetation, resulting in lower oxygen levels. Several participants, including myself, fell ill, grappling with symptoms of altitude sickness. Following Mohanji’s advice to conserve energy, I navigated the challenges at a slower pace, combating doubts that surfaced about my ability to continue the Yatra. This phase marked my first moment of uncertainty, but timely support from the group, particularly from Bhavani and Zoran, reinstated my faith and determination to complete my journey. I realised that it was Mohanji who was speaking through them. He wasn’t giving up on me yet!
The subsequent day proved even more challenging as we embarked on the journey to Mansarovar, enduring a nine-hour bus ride. The journey had additional challenges, including a breakdown that required hours of waiting for repairs. While stuck inside the bus in my frail condition, the chanting and bhajans by our group maintained the spirit high, never missing Mohanji’s presence with us, even for a moment. Despite worsening physical conditions, reaching Mansarovar brought a sense of satisfaction as Kailash became visible.
The majestic Kailash was in front of us! The first sight brought the feeling of being at the abode of Lord Shiva. Basic accommodation near the lake meant shared rooms with minimal heating, but resting was prioritised. As attending the aarati and chanting in a tent proved challenging, my mind grappled with whether I could complete the parikrama. I could feel the onset of fear despite my faith in my Guru. I was slowly bending under the physical weakness.
Medical assessments revealed my oxygen level at a borderline figure of 60. Now, the decision was left to me – to proceed with the parikrama or not. I faced two options: either stay at the hotel and refrain from continuing the journey or undertake the parikrama with uncertainty. The realisation struck that my sole anchor point was faith in my Guru, Mohanji, and his grace. It was his grace that helped me to make the right decision! Despite physical challenges, I trusted that his protection and support would enable me to complete the parikrama.
I recalled Mohanji’s analogy of Kailash parikrama as a software upgrade, a transformative experience that requires the right conditions and awareness, all of which Kailash provides. The upcoming day held immense significance as it entailed participating in the sacred rituals at Mansarovar, including a powerful Homa ceremony. Mohanji had emphasised the importance of rituals in Mansarovar, gazing at Kailash and setting one’s intentions – a pivotal aspect of the parikrama.
Despite my worsening condition when I woke up the next morning, I held onto the faith that Mohanji was with me and that he would take care of me. While struggling to consume some breakfast, the importance of nourishment was evident. Our plan was to walk south along the shore of Mansarovar to conduct the Homa in an open space and, if possible, engage in sacred rituals. A 10-15 minute walk along the lake was on the agenda. However, at that time, even 10-15 steps seemed almost impossible to me. I brushed aside my fears, remembered Mohanji and was about to set out on the journey.
Just then, the Sherpas noticed my condition and expressed concern, suggesting that I join them in the car that was transporting the necessary items for the Homa and the tent. Seated in the car, I thanked Mohanji for taking care of me and also contemplated the challenges ahead. Upon reaching the site, situated next to the lake, doubts lingered about how this would unfold. The freezing lake and my compromised physical state posed considerable challenges. The fatigue was extreme, including fever and severe headache; every bone in my body was shivering with the cold. I was barely able even to stand straight.
Nevertheless, I was determined to do my sacred rituals, trusting in Mohanji’s care. Positioned at the shore, I observed fellow participants slowly gather and engage in their rituals. I struggled to stand and engage in the ritual. This was my second point of uncertainty. Almost giving up on the ritual, I was considered a quick retreat from where I was to a comfortable space. Just then, I heard my name being called out! I felt as if Mohanji was calling me! I turned around and saw Moushumi, who encouraged me to endure and even offered to support me if I struggled. I recognised this was Mohanji’s command, his direct support.
I gathered my strength and decided to proceed. Surprisingly, within a minute, my pain disappeared. Encouraged by this shift, I ventured further into my rituals and completed them; I expressed gratitude to Mohanji for allowing me to complete these crucial rituals. I also carried a Shivlinga, small murtis, and a Rudraksha mala, along with larger malas for the Mohanji Centre of Benevolence Scotland. I dipped them in the lake to energise them. It was later confirmed that upon reaching MCB Scotland, the malas emitted immense energy, as felt by our MCB Priest Jack Barratt.
Soon enough, I realised I was free from pain and fatigue, and I wondered why. The revelation dawned – it all transpired after the transformative ritual. Surely, it was none other than Mohanji who kept his promise, “I am always with you. I am taking care of you.” My heart was filled with gratitude; fear was receding, heaviness from my head was disappearing, and the brightness outside was appearing inside, too – light and bright.
As Kannaiah and the team arranged for the Homa setup, I took a chair near the Homa kund, grateful to be part of this unique ritual. The Homa was extraordinary, and the feeling of participating in it beside Mansarovar was unearthly. Each participant received a small wooden log to symbolise letting go of aspects of themselves, burning it as part of the Homa. After the Homa, someone urged us to look up at the sky, revealing a remarkable sight – a big circle around the sun and a triangle within the sun, a divine blessing.
Returning to our accommodation by car, I later boarded the bus for a parikrama around Lake Mansarovar. We collected clear water from the lake and marvelled at Kailash. Moving to a hotel at the base camp, we stayed overnight, continuing our rituals with aarati and bhajans. The next day marked the beginning of our parikrama and preparations, including booking porters and ponies as advised by Mohanji. He always emphasised taking a pony, even if intending to walk, as acquiring one halfway through the parikrama could be challenging.
The next day’s dawn brought a mix of excitement and contemplation on the uniqueness of our pilgrimage. Despite being in my weakest physical state, the parikrama had yet to begin – an ultimate test of willpower and faith. We packed our backpacks with essentials for the next three days, and the entire team gathered for breakfast. My health condition showed no improvement, and doubts about completing the parikrama loomed in my mind. Following breakfast, as we stood in a circle to receive instructions for the journey, I recalled Mohanji’s teachings on the power of pure intentions.
Seizing the moment, I suggested that the team join hands, connecting to Mohanji’s consciousness and collectively expressing our intention for everyone to complete the parikrama successfully. A minute of silence ensued, during which some participants reported experiencing a surge of energy and goosebumps, fostering a positive attitude within the team. Mohanji’s presence was felt by all, which brought this sudden surge of energy.
We took the bus to the starting point, where we acquired our porter and pony – symbolic allies on this journey, akin to Shiva’s Ganas, aiding us in completing the parikrama. The parikrama commenced at Yamdwar, a point signifying the shedding of aspects of ourselves that we wish to let go, marking the start of a new life. Setting my intention on what I wanted to release, I began the journey, alternating between walking and riding the pony. The day was strenuous, with intermittent glimpses of Kailash, accompanied by the chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya.”
I successfully completed day one with the assistance of the pony and porter. The location offered the closest view of Kailash, an awe-inspiring experience that captivated the team. At an elevation of around 5000 meters, breathlessness became palpable, requiring me to consciously extend my breath for more oxygen. I was weak but far from giving up.
The Sherpas provided hot soup and delicious food, though altitude sickness made eating a challenge. As day two loomed, acknowledged as the most challenging part of the parikrama, I focused on preparing myself for the physical demands. Despite struggles with breathlessness during the night, I prioritised rest and welcomed the Sherpas’ checks to ensure my well-being.
Later that night, I woke up with severe breathlessness and called out with despair, in a feeble tone, “Is anyone around?” in the pitch-dark room, maybe 4 or 5 of us in that room, I heard a voice,” Harish, get up. Sit up. And breathe.” I felt the command was from Mohanji. I simply followed, and soon enough, I was able to regain my breathing and realised it was from a fellow roommate. Mohanji, once again, was right there with me at the point when I was giving up! The rest of the night was uneventful, and I was able to take some rest.
The second day commenced with Sherpas waking us up with hot tea, followed by breakfast. Prepared and determined, we embarked on what is considered the most challenging leg of the parikrama – day two. This segment involved ascending to Dolmala Pass at an elevation of 5800 meters, followed by a descent and a subsequent walk of approximately 12 km, totalling over 23 km.
Opting for the assistance of a pony, I began the journey, and upon reaching Dolmala Pass, fatigue set in. Despite being drained, the sight of Gauri Kund was breathtaking. Unfortunately, I couldn’t linger due to altitude sickness. Descending on foot, I rested whenever exhaustion set in, accompanied by the ever-present porter. Reaching a plateau, we encountered a few Chinese cafes, although they were dimly lit and cold, lacking power. As we approached the end of the long walk, it was lunchtime. The porter suggested I take my lunch, leaving me momentarily alone and fatigued, unsure of what to do next.
This was my third point of uncertainty. In that moment of need, divine intervention manifested. A voice called out to me from the darkened cafe on my right. Mohanji? Struggling with my bag, I made my way inside, discovering that the voice belonged to Thirushka from South Africa. She and Moushumi were having lunch, and an available seat was next to them. I gratefully joined them, sharing a bit of my packed lunch. Seated with them, I found solace, allowing myself to recover and rest.
The remaining stretch of the journey mostly unfolded on flat terrain, covering approximately 12 km. While I walked for a portion, I predominantly relied on my pony. Upon reaching the base, the team and I felt immense satisfaction, having successfully completed the challenging phase of the parikrama. However, that night brought another struggle with sleep, attributed to breathlessness. I recognised but also knew the M power with me; hence, I felt unhindered by the physical setbacks.
The last day of the parikrama was comparatively shorter, requiring 3-4 hours to complete. Starting early, I primarily walked this segment. Upon reaching the endpoint on day three, a profound sense of satisfaction and gratitude to Mohanji washed over me for enabling me to accomplish the parikrama. The team shared hugs, celebrating the collective achievement. Recognising my Shiva Ganas – my porter, pony, and its handler – I reached out to Tashi, one of the Sherpas, to translate and convey my heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging their significant role in my journey.
Subsequently, we embarked on our journey to Saga, with lingering altitude sickness until we reached Gyirong the following day. This entire expedition served as a touching reminder of the importance of living in the present moment and the power of faith. Kailash, in essence, symbolises dissolution. The experience underscored the imperative of embracing the current moment without undue concern for the future – why worry?
Reflecting on the entire journey, I attribute the completion of my parikrama to one crucial element: faith in the divine, in my case, in Mohanji. Kailash imparted a profound realisation about the significance of being connected to a Guru through unwavering faith. My sincere gratitude to Mohanji for making me realise that when I am alone, I am actually not alone!
Thank you, Mohanji, for being with me in every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime journey of Kailash. Thank you, my dear Kailash family, for being the instrument of Mohanji and making this journey such a memorable one. Thank you, Lord Shiva, for welcoming me to your abode and allowing me to accomplish my desire and intention.
|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 7th December 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.
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, 30th 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.
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, 26th 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.
My journey with Kailash virtually started in April 2021 when I got a dream where I was in Kailash on a full moon day, and Lord Shiva was meditating on Kailash with a few sages sitting around him.
After this dream, I started thinking about what my connection with Shiva or Kailash would be. I have been a Vishnu and Sai Baba devotee all my life, and I had never chanted any Shiva mantra nor did any meditation, so why did I get that dream?
In Aug 2022, Sai Baba blessed me to go to Skanda Vale Ashram in Wales and to do some seva. I followed that intuition and stayed for four days in Skanda Vale, where I learned about Mohanji.
While doing the food serving seva at Skanda Vale, I met an amazing lady, Heli, from Estonia. While having lunch together, she mentioned to me that she had come to Skanda Vale to seek blessings for the book that she was about to publish. When I asked her about the book, She said – “Pilgrimage to Tibetan Mountain Kailash.” This, for me, was a sign that I should seriously think about going to Kailash.
Heli patiently answered all my queries about Kailash, and she gave me a few references for tour operators in Kathmandu. I contacted them immediately, but they mentioned there was no official announcement from China yet about this pilgrimage. Hence, I lost hope.
In the meantime, I decided to go to India in March 2023, and on 5th March, I visited Shirdi. I was attending an evening aarti in Dwarakamai, and I was praying to Sai Baba: “Baba, please take me to Kailash. If you can’t take me physically, then send a Guru to me, only with whom I can do the yatra.” With this request to Baba, I opened my eyes and saw 2 European disciples standing before me, wearing white t-shirts (with Mohanji written on the t-shirts).
I got a sign that Baba had brought me to Mohanji. I tried to follow the disciples, but as Dwarkamai was overcrowded, I lost them, and they disappeared into that crowd. In the same month, I visited Varanasi, and I happened to accidentally visit Lahiri Mahasaya’s Samadhi place, which also had a beautiful temple for Mahavatar Babaji. In that temple behind Mahavatar Babaji’s idol, in the background, I saw a picture of Kailash. I prayed to Babaji to take me to Kailash.
After returning to the UK, I looked up Mohanji’s website, where I found mentions of a book – Kailash with Mohanji. I ordered it on Amazon, and upon arrival of that book, I read it within two days. Once I finished reading that book, I prayed to Mohanji – “Mohanji, please take me to Kailash.”
On the night of that same day, in my dream, I saw Mohanji unloading my suitcase from a van, and when I asked, “Where are we going?” Mohanji smiled at me and said, “Kailash.” This was in the last week of March 2023 when there was no sign of the Kailash yatra yet announced by the Mohanji Foundation. What a grace!
I was confident that I was going with Mohanji to Kailash one day. But I was surprised when, in April, I saw an advert coming from a social group to save the dates for ‘Kailash Parikrama’, and I was over the moon. I am sure I was the first one to register for this yatra.
Mohanji visited the London Navnat Centre on 27th May for a day retreat. I registered for that event, and I met Mohanji for the first time. I mentioned to him about the dream that I envisioned. He smiled at me and said, you will be fine on Kailash yatra.
I started my preparations for the yatra and reached Kathmandu with my husband. Once I reached the Hyatt Regency hotel, I saw the lobby was the place that I envisioned in my dreams, where Mohanji was unloading my bags.
The 27 yatris of this group felt like a family from day one. The 27 of us came from all over the world, from different directions, but we all had one thing in common – an immense gratitude that the Guru Mandala chose each one of us for this divine journey called Kailash Parikrama.
Preeti Duggal beautifully arranged the morning Shiva Rudrabhsihek, and we all felt that intense energy in the mornings during those pujas. She also performed a group Mai-Tri for all of us. This was my very first session, and I wasn’t expecting anything. But I saw Mother Kaali of Skanda Vale appear before me during the session, and I felt a touch on my forehead, and she said that she came all the way from Skanda Vale to bless me. A mother’s love is so pure and so kind that I had tears in my eyes. I cannot thank enough Preeti Duggal for this beautiful experience.
The next day, we had a satsang with Mohanji, and the topic was ‘Lord Hanuman.’ As Mohanji was doing the talk, I saw a vision again: an image of Mohanji with three heads: Lord Hanuman on the left, Mohanji in the middle, and Lord Dattatreya on the right. Despite being a vision, it was so clear and realistic that I was able to see the faces of them all for a brief period.
While leaving Kathmandu, we were all emotional about leaving Mohanji and the team behind. We had tearful eyes whilst Mohanji blessed us all with his two hands. I, too, became very emotional but knew that Mohanji would be with us all during this sacred journey.
The road to the Neal-China border was bumpy, and I started feeling motion sickness. I closed my eyes, and I saw a vision again. It was the day of Ekadashi. On this day, I usually fast and worship Lord Vishnu. In this vision, I was talking to someone saying, “It is Ekadashi day, and I am fasting, but I could not do Vishnu puja.” I then saw our group photo with Mohanji outside of the hotel, and I was next to Mohanji in that photo.
Suddenly, Mohanji disappeared and took the form of Lord Vitthal, a form of Lord Vishnu (standing in the same pose). My eyes were full of tears. Then, I saw another vision where Mohanji turned into a bird, and his body was expanding as if it was ready to take off. In another vision, Mohanji was blessing us all, and I envisioned a cobra around him protecting us.
Our journey to the Mansarovar was not so smooth. We all felt sick, but thanks to the sherpas and the Tibet team, they looked after us so well. After reaching Mansarovar, everyone was tired due to the long travelling. There was a full moon that night, and some of the yatris decided to go to Mansarovar at dawn at around 2:30am to see any celestial beings.
I awoke exactly at that time and could hear the people who were going towards the lake. I was too powerless to lift my body, and I heard a voice in my ears saying, “Do not move.” I felt an entity enter our room, and taking something out of our bodies, it left. Unexplainable yet realistic, and I realised that something which needed to leave us before the pilgrimage had been removed by grace.
On the next day, we started the Kailash Parikrama. I was fine on day 1, and we reached the guesthouse where we could clearly see Kailash. I was tired, but then I strongly wished to go out and look at Kailash. I went out, sat on a rock, and started meditating. Slowly, a few of the yatris joined me, and we had an amazing Shiva mantra chanting session in front of Kailash itself. At that moment, I felt the incredible feeling of nothingness (shunya).
On that night, I couldn’t sleep as my heart rate was irregular throughout. The following day, the sherpas suggested that I may not be fit to do the Parikrama and should consider returning to Darchen. The nervousness and the fear started taking over me, so I even decided to give up and go back.
Bhavani and Zoran came to see me, and Bhavani did a Mai-Tri for me. I did get a feeling of regaining some energy with some positive thoughts that indicated I carry on with this journey. Zoran also advised me that it was safe to do it and that it was just anxiety that was affecting my will.
On my pony, I started the journey to Dolma–La Pass. I was anxious that my heart rate was still irregular. At one instance, I lost my will to continue. Suddenly, a boy came to my rescue as he started talking to me in English. He was neither a porter nor a pony owner. He appeared out of nowhere, said that we were about to reach the peak, and smiled. I asked him to stay with me and told him I felt safe with him.
He smiled again and accompanied me to Dolma–La Pass, where I saw Kanaiyah from our group. I reached Kanaiyah and asked for some water as my porter was way behind. I completely forgot about the boy who had appeared out of nowhere and accompanied me until there, and I didn’t see him again. I then came across Zoran on the way, and he said, “See, you made it.”
Kanaiyah and Bhavani went down to Gauri Kund, and I chose to sit on a big rock at the top of the Kund to take some rest and wait for my husband and the porter. I was looking down at the Gauri Kund and heard Kanaiyah sing a very beautiful bhajan for Mother Parvati. I cherished that from the top. I closed my eyes and said to Maa, “Sorry I could not go to Gauri Kund this time, but bring me here again to take your darshan.” I witnessed a small landslide with a loud noise, to which Kanaiyah said it was Mother’s way of acknowledging our prayers.
My husband and my porter then joined me. My porter gave me a bottle of Gauri Kund water. I wasn’t anticipating it, but he felt he must fetch it for us all. This reminded me of Kanaiyah’s saying that a Mother always listens to our prayers.
I had read before somewhere that when you go to Kailash, even as a part of a group, each member gets a message from the divine. You must understand that message, and you will witness your life transforming. I have received a message, too, and am still in the process of understanding it!
As Mohanji says, “Go to Kailash with nothing with you, and you will not return empty-handed.” Have faith, surrender completely, and everything will be fine.
Thank you, Sai Baba and Mahavtar Babaji, for fulfilling my wish to go to Kailash. Thank you, Mohanji, for protecting me, and I know that it was he who walked with me to the Dolma–La Pass! Thank you, to all the sherpas, organisers and the homoeopathy doctor who looked after us like Shiva Ganas.
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 12th 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.
I wasn’t supposed to be a part of this beautiful journey initially, but I was destined to become one of the yatris. I followed the footsteps of my better half as I have done for every single journey that we have made together. Her dream about Mohanji’s instructions was an indication that I was destined to do this parikrama.
Luxuries of the materialistic world
I came into Hyatt as a child who would seek answers to his questions from his mother, and Mohanji, as a mother, answered every single question of mine. However, astonishingly, he read my mind and answered some of them even before the questions took a verbal form.
An abhishekam is needed before every sat-karya (a holy deed). The days in Hyatt were truly the days of abhishekams. Not only the abhishekam of the divine lingams that we did on every pure dawn of the holy month of Shiva (Shravan) but abhishekams of us by Mohanji with pure wisdom and spiritual knowledge (the satsangs). What else, if not the beautiful divine bhajans sung by Kanhaiya, could conclude such ceremonies?
The struggles on the way to Shiva’s home
The divine moment, a glimpse of Kailash, comes with a price, yet it is priceless. Nothing valuable can be achieved easily. So, how could a glimpse of Shiva’s home be different? From a bumpy ride to the border to the physical challenges and the psychological roller coasters. Needless to say, there were Mohanji Acharyas around always to help you get through these roller coasters.
The spirits of Manasarovar
Mansarovar is a court (darbar) of Shiva. Although even on the cusp of dawn, we could not witness any celestial bodies descend onto this lake in the form of lights, it has something for everyone. How miraculously, the grey, wet afternoon with our honest chants of Shiva turned into a bright and beautiful one? And how the bright sky glittered with a miraculous circle over our homa at the end of Kanhaiya’s beautiful mantras? The Mansarovar truly rejuvenated me.
The trilogy
Why my spiritually naive mind tried to correlate these three days of parikrama to the trilogy (creation, preservation, and destruction) or the trigunas (the three fundamental elements of reality – sattva, rajas, and tamas) is unexplainable. However, my mind certainly experienced passing through these three stages gradually.
Day 1 (The creation of ‘you’ – sattva)
While stepping out of the Yam Dwar, I truly stepped into the home of Shiva. You leave behind the ego, the personality, the attachments, and every attribute of the materialistic world that defines ‘you’.
This home of Shiva is a definition of pristineness. You feel all those shackles being broken with every breath that you take, with every step that you take. The ‘re-birth’ of you is witnessed by the Nandi, the Airavata, the sun, air, water, sky, soil, the pancha mahabhutas in their purest forms.
The spiritual infant in me naively started hunting for the signs of Shiva in every direction that I looked in, in every giant structure around me, including the Kailasha itself. Could I be more fortunate than to settle in Shiva’s home and chant out in the open before the mighty Kailash?
Day 2 (The desire for survival, the preservation – rajas)
Life is another form of accepting challenges and surviving through them. This penultimate day, the phase of survival, is an ultimate reflection of that. With the weight of your lineage, the karmic heaviness over your shoulders, step-by-step, make your way forward. Do desire for the apex, but as Mohanji says, don’t hang in there.
The apex, like the utmost success in your life, is your test. Life gives, and life will take it back. This is the utmost reality; this is the naked truth. Embrace the truth, surrender yourself to the almighty.
Throughout this survival, I have been lucky to have the presence of my better half. This is how things fall in order. Hand in hand, a true nuptial knot is made to share the pains and joys of each other. A journey togetherness with a sight of the Gauri Kund that takes all your pains and sorrows away.
Day 3 (The destruction – tamas)
What has been created will be destroyed. It is a law of nature. Tamas is often misunderstood but is equally essential for the balance. Tamas, in this context, would be your dissolution into the divine, the destruction of the ego, the oblivion. This is not the end, though. This is rather a new beginning. The inevitable cycle goes on. I stepped back into the ‘world of people’ with this purity in my heart, thus forth, with a responsibility to guard it against the impurities, as Mohanji says.
The end?
What has the parikrama given to me? … Everything that you cannot buy with money in the fake world… Everything that you would need to survive in this fake materialistic world, to keep yourself rooted in. New friends, a new family, new lessons that taught me how to value everything that I have, and a realization of how, one day everything would vanish in the blink of an eye.
My affair with Shiva has been lifelong, but it certainly has gone through its phases, from my everyday prayers to the ink on my skin and the words in my poetry to my thoughts.
I came to Kailash with the stories and experiences that I heard from others. Only to realize that Shiva has always been within us, within others, and within everything that’s pure around us. I saw a glimpse of him in the innocent smiles of the little girl that I shared my chocolate bar with during the first day of the parikrama.
I saw a glimpse of him in the honesty of my 65-year-old pony owner, who paused for a moment in the heavy rains to bow down in front of the divine Buddhist monastery located in the mountains. And in the efforts and in the sighs of satisfaction of my companions (sahayatri) at the end of every day of parikrama.
Shiva has always been around me, but I have been blind due to the duties, challenges, and entanglements of the materialistic world. A parikrama like this was needed to open the eyes. What did I ask from the Kailash?… well… one more of such parikrama while my body is capable.
And I owe this one to Mohanji and the Ganas of Shiva – Mohanji Acharyas, volunteers and the Sherpas!
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 5th 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.
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, 28th 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.
While enjoying our satsangs with Mohanji in Kathmandu and listening to the most beautiful experiences of those who had visited Mt. Kailash earlier, Mohanji asked me to come to his room. “We should talk about the Homa at Lake Manasarovar,” he said, “this is very important and auspicious.”
Although I’ve been performing pujas for Lord Shiva since 1996, in the form of Rudrābhiśekam, I have never done a Homa alone. For me, the journey to Mt. Kailash was a celebration of the darshan of Lord Shiva Himself, a wish I had for a very long time. I probably thought I could stay ‘in disguise’ during the trip and avoid all the duties and tasks.
Mohanji’s remark about me doing the Homa instantly woke me up from my ‘dreamy’ state.
In his room, Mohanji spoke about the importance of the Homa and how he performs it. Intention (Bhaav) is the most crucial ingredient, without which the deities will not come.
Mohanji already knew, without me saying so, that it would be my first Homa ever. Can you imagine a trial by fire right at the most important gateway of the world? It is like running your very first 100 meters at the Olympics. No pressure!
Together with Madhu, Mohanji summed up the directions for the Homa. He spoke about the attributes, ingredients and the mantras that needed to be used. I tried to scribble some notes on a piece of paper that I had brought along but missed out on most of it. “Do you know this mantra?” “Do you know that mantra?” “Uhhhh, yes, Mohanji,” but at that moment I forgot everything. Thank God Madhu recorded the conversation so that I could listen repeatedly.
Madhu suggested that we sing Mohanji’s Gayathri, but out of his compassion, Mohanji said, “These people have all different Gurus, let them sing the Gurumantra ‘Om Sri Gurubhyo Namah”.
This really touched me as I had intended to take my beloved Mother Gopala Krishna along with me.
“My Homas are very simple; normally, the Homas are very elaborate.”… Hmm, simple? But we already spoke for 30 minutes about how and what! I prayed that he would perform through me as I became blank after listening to all the do’s and don’ts.
Later, back in the room, I told Carla that I needed to do some ‘home(a)work’ and go through all that Mohanji had told me. The recording was very useful, and slowly, I got back my confidence.
The mantras that I did not know by heart I could practice in the coming days.
Preeti lovingly arranged all the items for the Homa, including wood, camphor and cow ghee. If our intention and bhaav were there, what could go wrong?
One duffel bag was filled with Preeti’s arrangements and many Rudrakshas to get them blessed at Lake Manasarovar. While crossing the border from Nepal to Tibet, our Homa bag got held up, and the clearance was ultimately denied – it had to stay back on the Nepalese side of the border.
Bhavani broke the news that all the major items for our Homa were not there and that we had to search for substitutes in China. While in Nepal, you can find wood, ghee and camphor in every remote village, it was the opposite in China. From shop to shop, we went with our guide and finally found some butter in restaurants. Bhavani, ‘the brave’, said she would boil it into ghee.
Camphor was not to be found, although finally, we came across a somewhat semi-liquid version. In the shop, on the floor, the gooey stuff was set ablaze, and it worked!
Wood was nowhere to be found, either, and from this town onwards, the tree line would end. We walked back to the hotel and asked Mohanji, inwardly, for help. Just as we arrived at our hotel across the street, we saw, in front of a restaurant, a box with wood sticking out. After much persuasion and a good amount, we were back in business.
The day of the Homa at Lake Manasarovar started with a severe downpour of rain – not the most convenient weather for an auspicious fire ceremony.
Bhavani summoned her ducklings to chant three malas of Om namah Shivaya, Shivaya namah Om. After the second round, the rains subsided, and once the three malas were completed, the sun came through.
Finally, the moment arrived, with a little twist in my stomach, and the Homa started. Throughout the ritual, we could feel the presence of Mohanji and many Masters, Gurus and celestial beings. As a group, we continued to chant despite the lack of oxygen. The waves of the lake licked the shore very gently, and with every wave, I felt divine beings entering the fire.
The bhaav and intention were within all of us, as well as in our Sherpas. Every participant offered a stick of wood dipped in ghee with a deep intention.
When we finally did, one by one, the aarati for Mohanji, and we touched each other’s shoulders, making sure we all performed this most auspicious offering, the hairs on my arms stood up, and tears of gratitude flowed from my eyes.
What a blessing! Later, my fellow yatris explained how the sun gave a special darshan during the Homa.
Silently, we walked back to our accommodations, hardly realising what had happened to us.
Even now, when I write this, I feel the intensity of that moment. Thank You, Swamiji, thank you, Mohanji, thank you!
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 12th 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.
Devi Mohan told me she saw me on a pilgrimage to Kailash in 2026. This reawakened in me the desire to go on this pilgrimage, which I had always wanted to do. Mohanji has said you can only go to Kailash if called.
On Friday, 7/21/23, right before Pat & my 4 am Conscious Kriya session with Cody Galloway on Zoom, a book fell off our altar bookshelf without apparent cause. The book “Kailash with Mohanji” was perched, ready to fall. I heard ringing in my ears & felt my consciousness rising. Pat & I looked at each other & said, “Oh my God!”
When we were in Bosnia for a Kriya Intensive, we asked Mohanji if he would recommend that Ruth & I go this year. He said that if we have the time & the money to go this year, then we should go, as the future is often uncertain.
Our group of 27 spent five days in Kathmandu at the Hyatt Regency with Mohanji in preparation for the parikrama. This was definitely a highlight. The meals were amazing! Mohanji was filling us with energy & love. We chanted “Om Namah Shivaya” (3 rounds of the mala with 108 beads) every day, along with performing the abhishekam, listening to the Rudram, participating in processes like the Power of Purity & the 360-degree meditation, enjoying Satsangs with Mohanji, Shaktipat, blessings, sang bhajans & listened to parikrama tips from several people. When we left Kathmandu, I was the lucky recipient of a loving hug from Mohanji (another highlight). He watched over us & protected us on the entire journey. What more can you ask for than to have the love & guidance from a Master?
When we were near Lake Manasarovar, it began raining heavily in the morning, right after breakfast. We were all under a tent & Bhavani suggested setting an intention by chanting 3 malas of “Om Namah Shivaya” to change the weather to sunshine. Amazingly, after 2 rounds of the mala, the rain stopped, & after the 3rd mala, the sun came out. This is what is possible when we work together as a group with Mohanji’s grace! Our group was supportive, kind, loving & helpful.
Going through & around the Yama Dwar was a highlight, as this is where we leave our old you, & become reborn into a new you.
At the end of the first day, seeing the north face of Kailash up close was incredible. We took pictures & chanted as a group. We may have had different goals for our Kailash trip, like walking the 35 miles was important to me & not so for others, & it seemed that our goals & wishes were fulfilled (Mohanji says that no one walks away empty-handed from Kailash). Please forgive me for being so brief; this just begins to touch the surface. I am very happy to have completed the parikrama & thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful experience.
It was inspiring to see the dedication & devotion of the people doing prostrations around Kailash. It may take them 1-2 months to complete the parikrama. Their effort & endurance are very admirable & humbling. I counted about 20 people along the parikrama with their aprons, elbow & knee pads doing their prostrations. We offered them some food & wished them well.
Our team of 6 sherpas deserve special mention for their inspiration & service. Our leader Nimha said he had completed about 100 parikramas, & Sunin & Toshi reported about 30 parikramas each. They experienced the same symptoms of high elevation that we did (including headaches & vomiting), yet they worked very hard to serve us in style & with care. They cooked for us, cleaned up after us, watched over us, encouraged us, slept only for about 3 hours/night, moved heavy duffle bags, & treated us like close family. Very impressive!
I was fortunate to take this sacred pilgrimage with our daughter, Ruth. The shared challenges have deepened our bond. I am very proud of her. She walked the entire parikrama, except for a part of the Dolma La Pass. She definitely helped me a lot & made my journey much more enjoyable. Our mutual goal of liberation pushes each of us closer (as Pat also pushes us closer). Our shared memories & pictures are priceless! What a great spiritual adventure to take with your family members! Thank you so much, Ruth, great job! Our pictures in front of the North Face of Kailash & Mohanji in Kathmandu are among my most prized possessions.
We all have vulnerabilities to accept & fears to face. I was one of the oldest & slowest of our group of 27. I had a blister on my heel that I covered with a band-aid & duct tape. I had several close calls about making it to the bathroom in time. I would have been devastated not to make the entire parikrama on foot. We were fortunate to find reasonable airline tickets less than 2 weeks before departure. We did end up spending two nights in airports on our layovers. There is a saying that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
I asked Pat about her experience at home while we were in Tibet. She shared that my father (who passed last year) & his parents appeared to her beaming with smiles, saying they felt great benefits from my parikrama. Perhaps some of their family karma & responsibilities were reduced. They were very happy & proud of me. Mohanji has said that our whole lineage walks with us when we walk the parikrama. I was happy to make them happy. Thank you for taking the time to listen to these stories. I hope you will have the opportunity to take this journey soon.
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 21st 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.
The day arrived, 22nd July! The day I flew to Kathmandu via Doha. My day started with conducting the Shree Jagannatha meditation. It was such a divine blessing to begin my Kailash Yatra with this meditation.
I flew to Doha via Qatar Airways, having a connecting flight to Kathmandu with one and a half hours of layover. Everything was perfect; what could go wrong with it?
I boarded the flight. The time started ticking, and we passed our take-off time. The pilot announced some technical problems to resolve in the next 25 minutes. Well, our minds needed some drama to play with. And questions started, will I reach on time? Will I get my connecting flight? Then I started chanting Mohanji Gayatri. Phew, so many things started popping up; well, the mind was the Boss. The pilot announced, “It’s good news, the technical problem is solved, and now waiting for a signal from Air Traffic Control to start the process to fly, and it will take another 45 minutes.”
Oh my goodness, I really felt like laughing out loud. Well, I dropped my mind fully (no more games and thinking process). I decided to watch movies, have vegan food, and relax because that’s the only thing I could do then. In the next 10 minutes, we were told that we were starting. Still, chances to catch my next flight seemed doubtful (I had 30 minutes to come out of the flight, go to the next gate, and catch the second flight). Well, after all the drama, the flight landed in Doha. I had only 30 minutes to catch the second flight, and I did it. I was the last person to go in.
The flight landed in Kathmandu; after all the visa process, immigration, etc., it was time to collect my bag. But the drama wasn’t finished yet. My bag decided not to reach Kathmandu and stayed back in Doha. I was about to burst into laughter. What a way to start this journey! The baggage attendant at the Kathmandu airport did his best to communicate well, and I got my bag the same night.
From the 23rd to the 27th of July, our routine was to wake up early for the Shivabhishekam (as Shravan month was going on), which Preeti Duggal performed daily. Then, our usual routine (breakfast, lunch, and dinner with all participants, Satsang with Mohanji in the evening). Also, the Mohanji Foundation had its first Satsang in Nepal with more than 70 participants.
One day, we spent sightseeing in Kathmandu and visited the beautiful Pashupatinath and Budhanilakantha temples. All these places were so beautiful and different in structure.
With the grace of Tradition and Mohanji’s blessings, I got to serve Mohanji in Kathmandu. The feeling was wonderful. I want to narrate one incident. I was in the room with Mohanji, waiting to go down for the Satsang. Mohanji was ready and sitting on the chair. I was standing near the window in front of him. Mohanji said, “Look outside and see those birds”. There were so many huge trees outside, but all the birds were sitting on only one tree outside Mohanji’s window! I asked Mohanji about this, and he said, “These are my bodyguards”. The window where I was standing was a glass window. One bird came twice and knocked at the glass window with his beak. Mohanji said, “He is checking who is with me in this room.” All those sentences amazed me.
Then, it was time to go for the Satsang. Mohanji stood and blessed all those birds (his bodyguards). We were about to go, and he stopped at the door and asked to close the curtain. I asked Mohanji, “Why close the curtain?” He said, “Otherwise, they will wait for me to come, but it will take longer to finish the Satsang. Hence, I want to conclude this and not make these birds wait for me.” Mohanji’s important teachings here – NO POSTPONEMENT, FINISH THE WORK TODAY, BETTER DO IT NOW, and FINISH IT OFF. He applies all of his teachings in his own life.
The first five days at Hyatt Regency were busy, yet meeting various people from different parts of the World was great. Except for two people from our group of 27, I met others for the first time, though I felt we had known each other for ages. During those five days, I felt we were raising our group energy by being together and through chanting, Satsang, visiting temples, etc. This bonding helped us all when we started our journey to Kailash.
After five days in Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu, on 28th July, we finally left for Syaprubeshi, a small town near Rashuwagadhi, the border of Nepal and China (friendship bridge). Our group of 27 people was divided into two buses. We travelled for almost 8 hours, with a lunch break in between. Finally, late evening, we reached. Meanwhile, a few people started feeling unwell due to the bus ride. We (Mai-Tri practitioners) did Mai-Tri for them. The whole journey, I was absolutely ok. After a delicious, freshly cooked dinner, we called it a day.
On 29th July, we walked toward the border, went through the immigration process, etc., and our journey started to Kyerong. This time, we were at an altitude of 4500m (almost 15,000 ft). We stayed at a hotel. As usual, Sherpas cooked delicious food and served us so lovingly. I can proudly say that those Sherpas were our backbone.
The next day, our journey started to Saaga. After a few hours of a bus ride, we reached the hotel. Though we were travelling and continuously on the road, Sherpas always used to cook fresh, delicious food for us. We were almost at the same altitude, but due to travel, I was a bit tired. I didn’t feel breathless, but I started feeling sick. For the first time, I felt very weak.
That was a crucial time, as reaching Kailash seemed impossible. The mind starts playing at this level. Fear started popping out. A Sherpa came and checked my oxygen, which was ok. However, I was told to eat. Eating was a must, as we all needed the energy to walk. A Sherpa lovingly got a bowl of rice for me and asked me to finish it. These Sherpas were so caring, like parents. I was much better the following day, almost back to my normalcy. We again packed our bags and got ready to go by the bus. The bus was the best companion in those days.
The following day, 31st July, We left for Manasarovar via Prayang and Mayum La Pass (5200 m) (almost 17,000 ft) and arrived at Hor Quo (4560 m). We were at different altitudes, sometimes high and then down again at lower altitudes. And believe me, you feel the difference. You literally feel your breath and your heartbeats while sitting and walking. We had some problems with the bus; hence, we reached this place a bit late and visited Manasarovar the next morning. However, our accommodation was literally less than 10 meters from Manasarovar. After a delicious dinner (always a three-course meal), we all went to bed and woke up in the morning with bed tea!
It’s 1st August, full moon! (While writing this testimonial, I checked the relevance of the full moon on that day.) It says this full moon is deeply tied to releasing fear and anxiety to pave the way for healing. It’s about recognizing our limited control and surrendering to the universe’s flow. No coincidence at all as I had the same feeling, especially after a few days of journey, altitude, and tiredness; everything just vanished as soon as we touched the Mansarovar water.
The first sight (darshan) of Kailash was while standing on the banks of Manasarovar, full moon, and the sunny day that followed with a powerful Homa as instructed by Mohanji on the banks of Manasarovar with the chosen 27 participants!
That day, we came out of our rooms to have breakfast. The sky was full of dark grey clouds. We were about to finish our breakfast, and the rain started. Our super-efficient Sherpas immediately put up the tent. Now, the question was how to go to Manasarovar and do the Homa. (The mind started playing games immediately). We all sat in the tent and decided to chant the Mohanji Gayatri Mantra 108 times. We were about to finish, and the rain stopped. We could see the clear blue sky. What was that? A MIRACLE. A clear path, a white path.
Sherpas and the organizers told us that taking a dip in Manasarovar may not be possible as the Chinese Government prohibits it. Most of the time, soldiers don’t allow pilgrims to dip in the water.
I took out some water in a bucket, which was very cold to the touch. I started chanting and poured the first lot over my head; I felt my crown chakra start revolving within. It was a profound experience. I placed my hand there and stood for some time. I witnessed it and let go of it. I didn’t ask any questions about it. That experience was beyond something!
Homa was another beautiful yet powerful experience I had at Mansarovar. What a powerful chanting and arati! Ecstatic!
The sun, immediately after the Homa at Manasarovar. A vibrant expression by Nature
We (27 participants), were like 27 Nakshatras in the SKY. The root word ‘Naksh’ means to worship or approach, and ‘tra’ is a suffix. ‘Nakshatra’ is also believed to mean ‘not destructible.’
Soon, we started our journey to Darchen. Here, we had the darshan of the west face of Kailash. We got our ponies and porters and soon began the Parikrama. This was another different kind of experience I had.
When I got my porter, the porter took my bag and told me to sit on the horse and relax! Soon, we crossed Yam Dwar, “The gateway of the God of Death”. It is the starting point of the circumambulation of Mount Kailash. Therefore, it has a prominent position in Hinduism. One must pass through Yam Dwar to visit Shiva’s home. It is the starting point of the Kailash tour. As per belief, Yamraj himself guards this home of Lord Shiva. The lord of death is called Yama, and Dwar means gate – therefore, it’s called Yam Dwar.
This Moushumi died then, and a new birth happened; what was that birth is yet to be revealed to me! It is like a rewiring of your whole system, a new software perhaps.
The Parikrama started on a sunny day! On all days, the weather was sunny. Sometimes, it used to rain at night, but other than that, we were so blessed to have a darshan of the sun all the time. Because of the high altitude, we used to get tired; it was a reminder to chant ‘Om Namah Shivay, Shivay Namah Om! Chanting always helped; it was always our medicine, an immediate effect!
After a few breaks, we reached Dirapuk. We rested, had dinner, and slept (or just lay down). It was very difficult to sleep; I almost couldn’t sleep for three nights due to tiredness or high energy, whatever you can call it!
3rd August, Altitude 5850m (almost 19000ft)
The toughest day of all, we covered almost 21 km that day. The first 6 km to Dolma La Pass was a steep way for those who walked and for horses riding pilgrims on their backs. It was not easy for the horses at all. I could feel the heartbeat of my horse, a very gentle being he was! My horse’s name was Chemu. We reached Dolma La Pass and had a beautiful darshan of Gauri Kund.
The story from Shiv Purana is famous as it tells of how Lord Shiva beheaded his son. It so happened that when Lord Shiva was away, Devi Parvati went to bathe in a sacred kund called Gauri Kund. To guard against intruders, she created an idol from the soap lather from her body, placed this idol near the pond’s gates and bathed. But before going, she breathed life into the idol, and the idol became her son, Ganesha. She instructed Ganesha to guard the door and stop anyone from entering. Lord Shiva came to the place after some time. Seeing this, Ganesha immediately stopped him from entering the place. Lord Shiva did not know that the person who was guarding the place was none other than his son, Ganesha. Angered by the person, Lord Shiva cut off his son’s head. When Goddess Parvati learned how Lord Shiva had cut off their son’s head out of ignorance, she pleaded with Lord Shiva to bring back her son’s head. Lord Shiva saw an elephant roaming in the forest, cut off his head, and placed it in place of his son’s head. Thus, Lord Ganesha was born with an elephant’s head. The entire story takes place at Gauri Kund.
It was again a steep route as we started downhill for almost 6 km. After a quick lunch break, we started towards our accommodation, nearly a 12 km walk or a horse ride. At this point, the altitude dropped down; it wasn’t that tough to walk. The scenery was just beautiful: water stream, waterfall, yaks, horses, just beautiful. Also, remember the sunny weather.
Soon, I reached the second accommodation and rested for some time until all the people arrived. During those ten days, we always attended all aratis and bhajans; it was part of our routine. It kept all of us energetic. We used to do arati and bhajan as soon as the dinner was done. I could feel the change in the energy at every accommodation.
4th August, The last of the Parikrama.
This was a relatively easy walk. We started our journey with the porters and ponies who always cared for me like a baby (This is not an exaggeration but a reality). We finished our Parikrama, and we reached Darchen by bus.
On 5th August, we started our journey from Darchen to Saga. And then Saga to Kyerong. At Kyerong, we reached a bit early; hence, we got some time for a walk and relaxed.
Finally, on 6th August, the journey started at the border of Nepal and China and then to Kathmandu. Meanwhile, we realized that the roads from the border to Kathmandu were muddy, as eventually, there were a few landslides. The skill and experience of the driver brought us successfully to Kathmandu.
I will never forget a few things in this journey: our backbone, Nigma and Tasi Sherpa (who are still in contact and ask about my whereabouts); our Chef, Dil Bahadur, and his assistants who cooked delicious meals happily. Nagmi, Tasi Sherpa, and Sunil served us so kindly and lovingly – true selfless service! Our food is masala chai with yak milk, soup & and popcorn, rice, dal, curry, pizza, pasta, halwa, hot mango juice, and fruits with hot fruit syrup. I will never forget this, and most of all, Nigma Sherpa, Tashi Sherpa, and Sunil Sherpa’s happy attitude and his words, “OOH LALA, COCA COLA”!
While writing this testimonial, I once again revisited the Kailash Yatra. I realized now, though, with this physical body, I completed Outer Kora; I will keep going to Kailash until the last breath of this life mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
My heartfelt gratitude to the team for organizing this 2023 yatra so well. There is nothing to improve. It is all Mohanji’s grace and pure intentions of all 27 participants who joined and completed the ultimate Kailash Yatra.
||Yogiraj Parabrahma Shri Satchitanand Sadguru Brahmarishi Mohanji Maharaj Ki Jai||
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 14th September 2023
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