Experiences with Swamiji

My first real audience with Swamiji occurred when, after a lot of cajoling on the part of my mother, I agreed to get initiated into a japa. At this point of time I was not a strong believer in the higher forces, but I felt a strong feeling it was the right thing to do. On reciting the japa a couple of times with Swamiji, I was worried as I consumed meat. Swamiji just smiled and said, "All you have to do is sit sincerely for japa during the assigned time, and the rest will follow."

Once at a padapujan at Andheri, Swamiji asked me to attend a trek to Dhak cha Bhairo from Karla Math. I at once jumped at the opportunity. I distinctly remember Swamiji walking ahead of the group at a blazing speed, constantly encouraging the trekkers, young and old alike. After taking a stop, a small group of yuvas along with Swamiji and his entourage decided to speed trek ahead to get a glimpse of the Bhairo temple. As the yuvas looked at the treacherous path that lay ahead, Swamiji broke into a full sprint up the loose rocks to their disbelief.

At every point that we felt somewhat powerless, Swamiji spontaneously filled us with motivation and energy. As a young seeker, I had many questions pertaining to the identity of man, and its relationship with the universe. Swamiji has a way of answering in a way that the right chords are plucked in the seeker and the truth strums out from within. Even in times of fear and helplessness, just the remembrance of Swamiji earnestly was enough to give me strength.

The bond once formed with the Guru remains continuous and very much alive, regardless of distance, time and sometimes even faith. The Grace of the Guru is always there, lovingly prodding and guiding the inner most recesses of our existence. Swamiji is unlike any other Swamiji I've heard about or met. Instead of enforcing rules and keeping a strict orthodox environment, Swamiji is always encouraging the youth to take part in cultural and sports activities. His teachings are both timeless, and amazingly modern at the same time. An open ground has been created for believers of all faiths to develop and get the necessary guidance.

Swamiji's love for animals is one of the things I most adore about Him. The love in his eyes is not the out of pity, or charity towards the seemingly dumb creatures. The love is one that arises out of the strongest camaraderie with all the creations of the Almighty.

Swamiji is my master, and I his humble disciple. With this belief I walk on fearlessly, always protected by His loving gaze.