Jagadguru Shankaracharya described Shri Ram's journey of dharma in Nandgaon, explaining the Guru-disciple tradition and 'Bala-Atibala' knowledge.
Addressing the devotees from across the country in the religious assembly, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Sadanand Saraswatiji Maharaj, the Dwaraka-Shardapithadhishwar, narrated a significant episode.
He explained that the life of Shri Ram is not just the story of a prince, but it symbolizes a divine journey of dharma, the guru tradition, knowledge, sacrifice, and public welfare.
The Jagadguru said that when the influence of adharma (unrighteousness) began to grow in society and obstacles were created in the yajnas and rituals of the sages, Maharshi Vishwamitra arrived in Ayodhya.
He requested Maharaj Dasharatha to allow Shri Ram to go with him to the forest for the protection of dharma. This was an extremely difficult moment for Maharaj Dasharatha.
He was ready to go himself with his army, but Maharshi Vishwamitra was resolved that this great task would be accomplished only through Shri Ram.
The role of Guru Vashishtha is also very important in this context. He reminded Maharaj Dasharatha of Vishwamitra's greatness and his capabilities.
Guru Vashishtha explained that behind the actions of great men lies a plan for broader public welfare. Ultimately, Shri Ram and Lakshman departed for the forest with Maharshi Vishwamitra.
Vishwamitra took Shri Ram and Lakshman to the southern bank of the Saryu river. There, he imparted to Shri Ram the divine knowledge of 'Bala' and 'Atibala'.
Explaining the significance of this knowledge, the Jagadguru said that they were not merely related to physical strength.
This knowledge was meant to provide the practitioner with self-control, stability, and deep inner strength. He said that in Indian culture, real power is not considered to be just external strength.
It is extremely important for a person to be strong from within. Only one who possesses the 'Bala' of self-control and the 'Atibala' of discretion can remain stable even in the most difficult circumstances of life.
Under the guidance of his guru, Shri Ram protected the sages and destroyed the anti-dharma forces.
Afterward, this same divine journey took him towards Mithila. Mithila was not only the capital of King Janak but also a land of knowledge, detachment, and spirituality.
Later, on this sacred land, the episode of Lord Shiva's bow and the auspicious union of Shri Sita and Ram unfolds.
The Jagadguru said that a significant similarity is seen in the lives of Shri Ram and Adi Shankaracharya.
The lives of both were not for personal glory or happiness but were completely dedicated to the establishment of dharma and public welfare.
Shri Ram left the royal palace at the command of Guru Vishwamitra, while Adi Shankaracharya took on the great responsibility of India's spiritual unity and the propagation of Vedanta at a young age.
He said that when one receives the guidance of a great guru like Vishwamitra in life, even a capable person should humbly follow the guru.
A guru first imparts power and knowledge to his disciple and then makes him worthy of the great tasks of public welfare.
The Jagadguru concluded by saying that the Ramakatha still gives society the message that one receives values from the father, knowledge from the guru, strength from penance, and the right direction in life from dharma.
Shri Ram's departure from Ayodhya with Vishwamitra was not just a journey; it was the beginning of that divine journey of dharma, knowledge, service, and dignity, whose message is still relevant for all of human society today.
On this occasion, Rishichaitanyaji Maharaj, Chetanathji Maharaj, and thousands of devotees were present.
*Edit with Google AI Studio
गणपत सिंह मांडोली
