Nilkanth Charitra
Nilkanth Charitra
Nilkanth Charitra
NIlkanth Charitra
(Bhagwan Swaminarayans travels around India as a teenage yogi)
Swaminarayan Aksharpith
Ahmedabad
Contents
Blessings............................................................................iii
Publishers Note.................................................................iv
1. Tell My People I Am Safe...................................................1
2. The Attributes of a Tyagi......................................................2
3. Gives Darshan to Veniram and Revives Raghunandan..........3
4. Redemption of Ascetics.........................................................7
5. On the Way to Badrinath....................................................10
6. Spurns Mahantship.............................................................11
7. Visits Badrinath and Manas Sarovar...................................13
8. Discourse to Maharaja .......................................................14
9. Compassionate Nilkanth.....................................................15
10. Nilkanth in Vanshipur.........................................................17
11. Enters a Dense Forest.........................................................19
12. Destruction of Ghosts and Deliverance of Yogis..................20
13. Meeting with Himalaya......................................................22
14. Intense Austerities at Pulhashram......................................24
15. Mohandas Meets Nilkanth..................................................26
16. At the Palace of King Mahadatt..........................................28
17. Meeting Gopal Yogi............................................................30
18. Blesses the King of Nepal....................................................31
19. Redeems the Telangi Brahmin............................................33
20. Defeat of Pibek...................................................................34
21. Uplift of 900,000 Yogis.......................................................38
22. Religious Preaching............................................................40
23. Nilkanth at the House of Jairamdas....................................43
24. Redemption of Jambuvan...................................................44
25. Nilkanth Leaves Jairams House.........................................47
26. Reunion with Nilkanth.......................................................48
27. Nilkanth in Jagannathpuri..................................................49
BLESSINGS
The youth movement established and nourished by Brahmaswarup
Swamishri Yogiji Maharaj has been expanding at a very rapid pace.
To satisfy the aspirations and the thirst for knowledge of the youth
joining the movement, and also to enable them to understand and
imbibe the principles of Akshar Purushottam expounded by Bhagwan
Swaminarayan; the publication division of Shri Akshar Purushottam
(Swaminarayan) Yuvak Mandal, organized under the auspices of
Bochasanwasi Shri Aksharpurushottam Sanstha, has drawn up a plan
for bringing out a series of books.
Through these books, it is intended to impart systematic, sustained
and pure knowledge in a simple language on a scholastic basis to
the children and youth of the Satsang. It is hoped that this Sanstha,
established by Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj for implementing
and propagating the ideals propounded by Bhagwan Swaminarayan,
will, through this activity, preach the ideals and noble traditions of
the Sampraday and through it, the culture of the Hindu religion.
It is the aim of this Sanstha to preach and spread the divine
message of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in all corners of the world. It
is planned to bring out these booklets in different languages. We
hope that all religious-minded truth-seekers of the Sampraday and
those outside it, will welcome this activity and extend their full cooperation to it by all possible means, including monetary help.
In order to encourage children and young men, examinations are held
based on the curriculum as worked out in these booklets. Certificates
are also awarded to successful candidates. We bless Shri Ishwarcharan
Swami, Prof. Rameshbhai Dave, Kishorebhai Dave, and all others who
have co-operated in the preparation of these booklets.
Vasant Panchmi
Vikram Samvat 2028
(1972 ce), Atladra
Shastri Narayanswarupdasji
(Pramukh Swami Maharaj)
Jai Swaminarayan
publisHers note
We read in Ghanshyam Charitra about Shriji Maharajs
divine, inspiring and miraculous childhood. After the passing
away of his parents Ghanshyam Maharaj renounced the
world and sojourned in the forests. He was then known as
Nilkanth Varni. He travelled to various pilgrim places in India
for seven years. He undertook intense austerities. Finally he
met Ramanand Swami who initiated him into the sadhu-order
and renamed him Sahajanand, and then appointed him as
his spiritual heir. The account of the extraordinary life of the
Lord narrated in Nilkanth Charitra is based on the established
shastras of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. For the convenience
of readers, a map indicating Nilkanths travels throughout India
has also been incorporated.
Many interesting anecdotes found in the various accounts
of Nilkanths life are narrated here. We hope that they will
enlighten and inspire youths to higher spiritual endeavours.
The present publication is a translation of the Gujarati
book Nilkanth Charitra.
This book has been designed to serve as part of the
examination curriculum for youths. More specifically, it is
offered as a textbook for the second of the examinations,
Satsang Pravesh, in the series.
It is our earnest prayer that children, youths and aspirants
of knowledge will study these books carefully and pass the
examinations with flying colours and, above all, derive immense
spiritual benefit and please Bhagwan Swaminarayan and our
beloved guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- Swaminarayan Aksharpith
Nilkanth Charitra
to serve you. Now if it is your wish then I will stay with you and
serve you.
At present I wish to travel alone. However when I remember
you come immediately. And one more thing tell the people of
Ayodhya that I am safe and well. And with these words Nilkanth
closed his eyes in meditation.
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Nilkanth Charitra
in his divine form. At once the well was flooded with divine light.
Gently he lifted Veniram and his father out of the well and then
disappeared into the sky. Veniram was overjoyed at this good
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Nilkanth Charitra
Redemption of Ascetics
4. Redemption of Ascetics
The road was very difficult with many dense forests on the
way. The vegetation was so thick that the forests were dark even
during the day.
Continuing his journey on foot through the thick jungle
Nilkanth came to a banyan tree. He saw some ascetics sitting
under the tree. He went to them and asked O ascetics why have
you come here ? Where will you go from here? The ascetics
replied O Varniraj we are going to the Himalayas to perform
penance. We wish to propitiate God through our austerities. We
shall undertake severe penance after reaching the Himalayas in
the north in order to attain salvation.
The ascetics then asked Nilkanth Why have you come alone
to this harsh jungle? We are many still we are mortally afraid
of wild animals at night. How is it that you are moving about so
fearlessly? Who are you? Are you not afraid of tigers wolves and
lions? As you are clad only in a loincloth dont you feel cold at
night?
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Nilkanth Charitra
Redemption of Ascetics
howl sniffed the ground and went round Nilkanth and finally sat
under the banyan tree. The ascetics were watching this from their
hammocks. The hyena began to stare at the hammocks hanging
high up. On seeing this the ascetics were frightened all the more.
Bewildered they lay motionless in their hammocks and began to
pray to Nilkanth.
At daybreak the hyena stood up looked up at the banyan
tree once again and then lashing its tail fiercely on the ground
twice it went on its way. At that time the ascetics were focussed
on Nilkanth. He bestowed salvation on them. Thus uplifting the
ascetics Nilkanth continued his onward journey.
The ascetics look in fright to see what the hyena would do to Nilkanth
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Nilkanth Charitra
Spurns Mahantship
11
6. Spurns Mahantship
Thereafter Nilkanth crossed the bridge proceeded further
and reached the city of Shripur. At this place Uddhavji on being
separated from Shri Krishna had performed austerities thousands
of years ago. Nilkanth visited this location. Knowing the sanctity
of the place Naradji had built the city of Shripur there. It was also
known as Shrikshetra. Since the river Alaknanda flows here in the
form of a bow the place is also known as Dhanushtirth.
When Nilkanth Varni reached Shripur it was late evening. He
saw a hermitage outside the village and sat on a small platform
nearby. On seeing the illustrious Brahmachari the mahant of the
hermitage was impressed. He said Brahmachari please come
inside the ashram. If you stay outside there is danger from wild
animals. It is not proper for you to sit outside.
The young ascetic did not take any notice of the mahants
entreaties. He sat in meditation. The mahant said again
Brahmachari! You must be very hungry. Come inside. Have
food and take rest. When there was no response even to this
the mahant thought the young celibate was observing a vow of
silence. He shook him and said Maharaj! Listen to me. If you
do not want to come inside the ashram please go to the village
and stay there for the night because there is imminent death
here.
Then Nilkanth said I do not stay where there are many people.
I prefer to live outside a village in a place like this and under the
sky. I am not afraid of death.
The mahant still tried to reason Why are you so stubborn?
And why do you invite death when there is no need to?
But the mahants efforts were to no avail. Nilkanth sat outside
the ashram in deep meditation on a deer skin.
It was past midnight. Suddenly there was an earth-shaking
roar of a lion. The mahant and the villagefolk woke up because
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Nilkanth Charitra
13
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Nilkanth Charitra
8. Discourse to Maharaja
The valiant ruler of Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh who was on
a visit to Badrinath met Nilkanth Varni. He was greatly impressed
Compassionate Nilkanth
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9. Compassionate Nilkanth
Only ten months had passed since Nilkanth had renounced his
home. After blessing the town of Ayodhya Nilkanth trekked along
the banks of the River Saryu. Passing through forests and groves
in the upper north eastern Himalayas Nilkanth arrived in Bansi.
A river flowed by at a short distance from the city and there was
a beautiful garden too. Nilkanth went to the river every morning
for his bath. There were beautiful birds of many kinds chirping in
the garden.
One day Nilkanth after bathing in the river came to the garden
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Nilkanth Charitra
for meditation. At that time two servants of the king entered the
garden. Heedless of the presence of Nilkanth they aimed their
rifles at a spot and fired. And the bullets hit a couple of birds
which fell down from the tree screaming and struggling for life.
The helpless eyes of both birds stared at Nilkanth and they soon
died. Nilkanth blessed them and redeemed their souls. He was
deeply pained at the cruel behaviour of the kings servants. He
became sad and dejected. On that day he observed a fast. He did
not go to the city again but spent the whole day in the garden.
His heart was greatly moved with compassion. He could not bear
any sort of violence.
At midnight he suddenly woke up. A thought casually passed
through his mind Let this city be burned! And Nilkanth decided to
leave the city. But immediately after this he withdrew that thought
saying to himself No a sadhu should be forgiving. He should not
even harbour a thought which may cause harm to anyone.
But as a result of his first casual utterance the city of
Bansi went up in flames. The god of fire had already set it aflame
from the heavens. The fire started from the kings palace and
rapidly spread to the whole city. There was great commotion. The
king the queen and all the citizens began to flee the city.
When Nilkanth saw this he felt compassion for the citizens.
Instantly he plunged in the waters of the river and with that the
fire was extinguished. Only the two servants who had killed the
birds were burnt to death. The city was saved from being reduced
to ashes.
Since such an incident occurred as a result of his casual
utterance Nilkanth stood in the water of the river and taking a
little water in the palm of his hands took an oath and uttered a
curse on his own speech If ever again such an impure thought
passes through my mind even by mistake let it not be fruitful. Let
my words on such an occasion fail to bear any fruit.
After his bath and meditation Nilkanth continued his journey.
Nilkanth in Vanshipur
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Nilkanth Charitra
with rapt attention. But the queen had some personal interest in
keeping Varni in her kingdom.
One day she came to Nilkanth and said Brahmachariji! We
would like to give this kingdom to you. Along with that we would
give you our daughters in marriage. Therefore give up the bother
of going to the forest to do austerities. Varni laughed at the
worldly inclinations displayed by the queen and said Mother! I
have still to wander the forests and redeem souls like you. I have
come here as a result of your penance. You are very fortunate (in
having me here). The queen was greatly distressed and agitated
on hearing this reply. Brahmachari! Think carefully. You are a
mere boy now. When you become a young man you will become
restless without a woman? Kamdev has overcome great minds.
Do you think he will leave you alone?
Varni took pity on the queen and said My joy lies in going to
the forest and meditating on Paramatma. The queen felt as if the
ground was slipping from under her feet. Is Varni going to leave
us? was the thought that worried her most. She made one last
attempt to frighten Nilkanth by vividly describing the dangers of
the forest. To this Varni had a ready answer: Mother I am not
afraid of the forest its ferocious creatures or the extremes of heat
and cold. One should be afraid of worldly pleasures. I have come
to this world to redeem people from the allurement of maya and
take them to my Akshardham. I have not come to become attached
to your kingdom or your daughters. However since all of you have
served me with devotion I shall grant you all Akshardham.
The veil of illusion was lifted from the queens mind. She went
into a divine trance. Nilkanth left the room. When she awoke
from the trance she was weeping. Her daughters advised her
Mother we have in our midst a divine person who is pure and
above mundane desires. Let us serve him according to his wishes.
Do not be stubborn in your ways. Be insistent in keeping him
within your heart and give up your mundane motives. These
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words were like nectar to the queen. Then Sushila and Ila rushed
to Nilkanths room. There they found him sitting in swastik-asan
and in deep meditation. They had his darshan came on tiptoe and
made his bed. They also filled his gourd with fresh water brought
some fruits and flowers and quietly left the room.
Nilkanth sat in meditation for a long time. He lost count of
time. It was late night. The palace gate was closed. Varni opened
his eyes and thought that he should leave the place because
the royal family out of their faith in him would definitely be
redeemed. And with this resolve he left the palace in a flash.
The next morning when Sushila and Ila went to Nilkanths
room they found it empty. They felt that he must have left the
palace. The weeping princesses rushed to their mother to convey
the news. The queen could not bear the terrible news and thus
collapsed on the floor. The king was informed and soon the tragic
news spread to different parts of the capital and the kingdom.
People thronged to the palace to verify the report. There were
scenes of mourning in the palace. The king ordered horse riders to
fan out in different directions to search for Nilkanth. Dont return
without bringing the young Brahmachari was the royal edict.
The mounted riders fanned out far and wide but found no
trace of Nilkanth. The king himself went in search of Nilkanth but
could not find any trace of him. He returned sorely distressed.
Nilkanth assured the king through his uttering from the sky that
he would be able to meet him later in Saurashtra.
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Nilkanth Charitra
dried leaves snakes slithered out. Rhinos wild buffaloes and other
wild animals infested the forest. The forest was full of scorpions
snakesspiders etc. Even then Nilkanth walked in bare feet.
Nilkanth wished to reach Pulhashram. He had been journeying
for three days and nights without rest. No food was available
for four days. Nilkanth had been drained of all strength. He
was so tired that he fainted and lost consciousness. On gaining
consciousness he saw a river and dragged himself there and had
a bath. He bathed the Shaligram and offered it water fruits and
flowers. Then he ate some prasad and performed sandhya vandan.
That day marked an important milestone in the Brahmacharis
life. It was one year and 43 days since he had left home. The day
was 29 August 1793 (Shravan vad 8, Samvat 1850).
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Nilkanth Charitra
few and gave the rest to Hanumanji. He was very pleased with
Hanumanji and gave him his blessings. Then he proceeded
to climb the mountain. The higher he climbed the denser the
vegetation became and when he reached the top he was in the
midst of the densest part of the jungle. The growth was so thick
that it was dark even at noon.
In the middle of the forest several yogis were performing
penance. When they saw Nilkanth they were greatly pleased.
They thought to themselves God himself has come today to give
us darshan. Our penance of many years has at last borne fruit.
They received Nilkanth reverentially. They cleaned a cottage
for him to stay and led him to the lake for a bath. After completing
his bath and worship Nilkanth asked them Wild vegetation
seems to be growing here; can I get some fruits to eat? The yogis
replied We have got an akshaypatra. It gives us whatever we
wish to eat at noon every day.
The yogis served Nilkanth with devotion for four days. They
wished for different varieties of eatables from the akshaypatra
and offered them to Nilkanth. On the fifth day when Nilkanth
prepared to leave all the yogis prostrated before him and prayed
Please bless us with your bhakti and deliver us.
Pleased with them Nilkanth replied Continue your meditation
for some time more. I have set out with the sole object of bestowing
deliverance on all. When I reach the Navalakha mountain and
redeem the nine hundred thousand yogis you too will get your
deliverance. All the yogis were extremely pleased to hear this
and bade a warm farewell to Nilkanth.
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Nilkanth Charitra
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Nilkanth Charitra
27
true path and decided to stay with him. The young Brahmachari
permitted him to stay. He realized that the sadhu was eager to
discover his true self but his mind was attracted to worldly things.
Someone had presented Nilkanth with an attractive kamandal.
Mohandas took a fancy for that. Though he did not want it
his mind remained fixed on it even while doing the darshan of
Nilkanth.
While walking they came to a river. It had stones of all sizes
covered with moss. Mohandas warned Varni Be careful while
stepping over the stones. If you slip the kamandal will break.
Nilkanth was really surprised at the concern of the sadhu for a
mere kamandal. On reaching the opposite bank Nilkanth dashed
the kamandal against a boulder and broke it. What have you
done? You have broken a beautiful kamandal Mohandas cried
out.
Nilkanth replied Instead of concentrating on God you have
become attached with this mundane thing. Then how will you
get redeemed from this world? A reformed Mohandas touched
Varnis feet.
A few days later they came across a tall tree from which violet
mango-like fruits had fallen on the ground. Nilkanth started
eating one. Mohandas too took one to eat it. Dont eat the fruits
they are poisonous Varni warned him. If you eat them you will
die. Mohandas threw away the fruit.
Soon four bawas came. On seeing Nilkanth eating the fruit the
bawas plucked some. Varni told Mohandas Tell them not to eat
the fruits. Mohandas told them that they were poisonous and
they would die if they ate them.
But why is the Brahmachari eating them? the bawas
questioned sternly.
Because he is a great person Mohandas replied.
We too are great boasted the bawas. And so out of arrogance
they ate the fruits and died.
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Nilkanth Charitra
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Nilkanth Charitra
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Nilkanth Charitra
Rana Bahadur was the king. His grandfather had expanded the
Gorkha kingdom and made Kathmandu the capital. Nilkanth
came to Kathmandu to have darshan of the Pashupatinath
mandir.
The king Rana Bahadur was suffering from a chronic disease.
He tried his level best to find a cure but did not succeed. He even
sought the assistance of bawas sadhus Brahmins scholars priests
and others. But there was one problem. Whoever tried to cure the
king and failed would be imprisoned by him and subjected to all
sorts of tortures. Thus no sadhus came to Kathmandu.
When Nilkanth arrived in Kathmandu a band of bawas
were accompanying him. At first they were reluctant to go to
Kathmandu because of the kings disease and his wicked nature.
When the bawas told the Varni not to go he told them A sadhu
should never be afraid. On Varnis assurance the bawas entered
Kathmandu. As soon as the king came to know of their arrival
he sent his man to call the mahant. The mahant took the young
Brahmachari with him to the king. The monarch received them
with due honours in his darbar.
The king requested Varni to find a cure for his disease. The
young celibate replied Your disease is willed by your karmas and
nothing can cure it. No one can change what God has determined.
Therefore believe whatever misery and pain that comes to you
as your fate. Bear it with patience and offer prayers to God. Your
wilful ways will not end your misery. Instead you will invite
further bondagethrough such karmas. On hearing the soothing
message of the young sadhu the kings inner eye opened and he
asked for forgiveness and requested Varni to cure him.
The compassionate Nilkanth asked for water and gave a little
to the king to drink. The king faithfully drank the consecrated
water and by the wish of Nilkanth his stomach pains subsided.
The king was tremendously impressed by Nilkanth. He told Varni
to ask for something in return. Nilkanth said If you want to do
33
a little service then I have only one demand to make release all
the imprisoned sadhus. The king was greatly pleased by Varnis
selflessness and released all the imprisoned sadhus. Nilkanth was
pleased and blessed the king.
Nilkanth then headed north towards Tibet. There he visited
Buddhist monasteries and cast a glance at China. He then returned
to Nepal and visited Adivarah tirth and came to Sirpur.
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Defeat of Pibek
35
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Defeat of Pibek
37
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40
Nilkanth Charitra
Religious Preaching
41
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Nilkanth Charitra
place to stay. Nilkanth took a bath and sat in the courtyard of the
mandir.
In the evening arti was performed in the mandir. Thereafter
the recitation of the Ramayan began. Men and women came from
the village and gathered to listen to the story. Nilkanth did not like
men and women sitting together in the mandir. When the recital
was over people began to disperse after touching the feet of the
bawas. Some women came to touch the feet of Nilkanth also but he
got up and went away into his room. Then some women began to
massage the legs of the bawas and to render other services to them.
Nilkanth did not like this either. He admonished the bawas saying
You recite the Ramayan but why dont you follow dharma? A
sadhu cannot deliver religious discourses to women. A sadhu who
has renounced the world should renounce women and wealth.
On hearing these words the bawas became very angry
and asked Who are you little kid to advise us? Get out of here;
otherwise we shall beat you and drive you out.
Nilkanth immediately disappeared. The bawas wondered as
to how the boy could have disappeared through closed doors.
Nilkanth reappeared seated on the verandah at the Banias house
opposite the mandir.
At that time Hanumanji appeared before Nilkanth. When he
found that the irreligious bawas had driven Nilkanth out of the
mandir he bowed to Nilkanth took a thick stick and went into
the mandir. There he began to beat the bawas and their women
disciples. The bawas were thoroughly battered. They asked Who
are you? Why are you beating us without any offence? What is
our offence?
Hanumanji replied Why did you drive out Nilkanth
Brahmachari from here even though he has not committed any
offence? Nilkanth is God incarnate. Why did you drive him out
of this mandir of Ramchandraji? Now go and fall at his feet and
seek his forgiveness. I shall free you only when you bring Nilkanth
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Nilkanth Charitra
bawa. The bawa read and explained the Ramayan to them daily
in the morning and evening. Whenever the girls did not follow
anything they would ask the bawa its meaning and he would
explain to them. If the question was difficult he would give a
confusing answer. Nilkanth heard all this silently.
One day when the bawa was explaining the Ramayan the
girls asked a question which baffled the bawa. He did not know
the answer. Nilkanth then intervened and asked the bawa if he
could give the explanation. The bawa agreed. Nilkanth answered
several questions one by one. The girls went home pleased with
the answers.
On reaching home they related the whole incident to their
parents and said Nilkanth is a child celibate. He is very brilliant.
He is God. Let us invite him to our house for dinner. The father
was pleased to hear this. He went to the mandir and with great
persuasion brought Nilkanth to dine at his Krishna mandir. The
wife of the Brahmin was a very devout woman. She prepared
delicious food. She also served milk cream butter curds and
sugar to Nilkanth.
When Nilkanth finished eating the Brahmin requested him to
stay at his house. He said This is my son Jairamdas. I want him to
serve you. He repeated this request several times. Responding to
the deep feelings of the Brahmin and his wife Nilkanth stayed at
their house for a few days. Pleased with their devotion Nilkanth
showed them his divine form.
Redemption of Jambuvan
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noticed that Nilkanth was not in his bed. She thought Nilkanth
might have perhaps gone for a bath. She sent someone in search
of him at the lake but Nilkanth was not there either. Jairam and
his father went around every street of the village to search for
him. They searched at the village square in the bazaar in the
forest in the garden but they could not find him. Jairams parents
became sad and they did not eat anything. The whole village
wore a forlorn look. Everyone wondered Have we done anything
wrong? Why has he left us like this?
Jairams mother felt extremely uneasy and told him to get
ready to search for Nilkanth. She gave him some food and money
for the journey and said Go and search for Nilkanth and bring
him back from wherever he is. I cannotlive without him. Beg
for his pardon if we have made anymistake but bring him back.
Nilkanth is our God.
Jairamdas left in search of Nilkanth.
Nilkanth in Jagannathpuri
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him to come to his palace but Varni refused. Nilkanth blessed the
king and departed from Janakpur and Jagannathpuri. Nilkanth
had stayed for ten months and perceived the devotion and
deception of the priest of Jagannath mandir. Due to Nilkanths
stay righteousness prevailed and evil was destroyed.
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on his legs and roared Who are you? But on seeing Nilkanth he
immediately bowed to him and with folded hands prayed O God
please redeem me. I have been reduced to this wretched state by
the curse of a Brahmin. He then began to relate his story I was
a pious and religious king of the Telang region. Two Brahmins
named Jaidev and Mukunddev lived in my kingdom. Both were
learned powerful and had high achievements to their credit. The
one-year-old daughter of Jaidev was engaged to the three-yearold son of Mukunddev. The daughter grew up and so did the
son. But suddenly Mukunddevs son was afflicted with smallpox
and he became blind. Hence Jaidev broke off the engagement
of his daughter to the son of Mukunddev. He returned all the
customary gifts of clothes and ornaments. Hence Mukunddev got
very angry and came to me for justice. I studied the relevant
shastras and pronounced my judgement In the event if either
the bride or the bridegroom become disabled the engagement
can be broken off.
Hearing this judgement of mine Mukunddev was enraged. He
said to me The family tradition and customs are more important
than the shastras. You must therefore call upon the brides father
to get her married to my son. I firmly replied to him that I could
not pronounce a judgment contrary to the commands of the
shastras.
So Mukunddev cursed me indignantly You will become a
demon within nine months. On hearing this Jaidev taking my
side gave me this boon Dont worry about the curse God himself
will meet you. You will have the privilege of his service and a
place in his divine abode. Within nine months I died and since
then I have been living here as a demon. I eat whatever birds
or animals I can get hold of. Once I could not get anything to
eat for seven days. At that time a young Brahmin was passing
through the forest. I caught hold of him and was about to devour
him when he spoke I am the only source of livelihood to my old
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Today your gracious foot has touched my head. This will uplift me.
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Nilkanth Charitra
gracious foot has touched my head. This will uplift me. With
these words the demon fell at the feet of Nilkanth.
Nilkanth blessed him and said You will get redemption. You
will be reborn in Kathiawad and will be associated with me and
render service to me. You will get your ultimate deliverance and
attain my Akshardham.
After blessing him thus Nilkanth proceeded further. With this
the demon shed his mortal body. In accordance with the blessings
of Nilkanth he was reborn in the Kathi community and family of
Bashiya in the village of Jetpur in Sorath. He was named Rato.
People called him Rato Bashiyo. He served Shriji Maharaj and
was deeply devoted to him. He inspired faith amongst the people
by relating the story of his previous birth. Shriji Maharaj also
demonstrated affection for him.
Ungrateful Sevakram
57
to buy food provisions like sugar ghee rice etc only to suffice
for himself. Everyday Nilkanth cooked food for him whereas for
himself he would have to go to the neighbouring village to beg
alms and eat whatever he received. Sometimes he did not get
any alms and had to go without food. Sometimes he would have
to fast for two days running but Sevakram would not give him
any money. He did not even have the courtesy to ask him to dine
with him.
For two months Nilkanth served him and when he got well
they both proceeded towards Rameshwar. On the way Sevakram
would have Nilkanth carry his luggage weighing 20 kilogrammes.
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Nilkanth Charitra
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Bhagwandas was much pleased to see the nine marks on the sole.
he said to Nilkanth O Brahmachariji the thorn is perhaps in the
other sole not in this.
So Nilkanth stretched out his left leg and placed it on his lap.
Bhagwandas observed the remaining seven marks on the left
sole. They consisted of trikon kalash gopad dhanushya meen
ardhachandra and vyom.
Then he suddenly remembered what his mother had told
him. He looked at the sun in the west and then in the east. He
saw his own shadow but not that of Nilkanth. He felt extremely
happy. Without waiting for a moment he requested and prayed
to Nilkanth to accompany him made him sit in the boat and
took him home. They reached home late at night. Bhagwandas
knocked at the door. His old mother came to open the door. The
wife of Bhagwandas too came to the door with a lamp in her hand
to see who it was.
The door opened. Both the mother and daughter-in-law were
amazed at what they saw. The light of the lamp was passing
through the body of Nilkanth. The mother was exhilarated. Her joy
knew no bounds. The wife of Bhagwandas prepared fresh loaves
and fed Nilkanth with hot loaves milk butter and sugarcandy.
They attended on him all through the night.
In the early morning the mother of Bhagwandas went from
home to home in the village inviting everyone to come and have
darshan of God in her house.
People out of curiosity and doubt came to see him. Nilkanth
imparted a few words of wisdom and appeared to all in the
form of Chaturbhuj Narayan holding a conch shell mace wheel
and lotus in his four hands. Everyone bowed at the feet of
Nilkanth.
Nilkanth stayed for two days at the old womans house and
then blessed the family All three of you will pass away shortly
and will be reborn in north Gujarat in the village of Vadnagar
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Nilkanth Charitra
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Nilkanth in Gujarat
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Nilkanth at Bochasan
71
On the way he took a bath in the Mahi river and reached the
village of Navli. He ate the food offered by Laldas and blessed him
saying You will get a virtuous son (Kashiabhai). From there he
went to Bamangam. In this village he ate food consisting of a
loaf and dal of muth at the house of a Brahmin Khoda Pandya.
Nilkanth blessed him and went to Dakor via Anand.
After the darshan of Shri Ranchhodrai at Dakor Nilkanth
arrived at Vartal. Here Joban Pagi taking Nilkanth to be a great
sage offered him some food provisions. Nilkanth cooked his food
and ate it. Joban Pagi pressed him to stay in Vartal but Nilkanth
promised him that he would return on some other occasion and
thus proceeded to Bochasan. There he put up on the bank of the
village pond under a banyan tree.
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Nilkanth Charitra
He came to the house and sat outside the main porch. The
old mother of Kandas Nanibai was overjoyed on having the
darshan of the young Brahamachari. Nilkanth then asked her
Mother bring the ladoo. Naniba went into the kitchen to bring
some ladoos. But the Brahmins refused saying The food has
not been offered to God. Nanibai returned empty-handed so
Nilkanth said Mother bring some milk and rice. But there was
not a drop of milk in the house. Where can we get milk at this
hour thought Kandas. Nanibai the wife of Kandas had great
faith in Nilkanths words. She took a vessel and went to the
buffalo. To her surprise she saw milk dripping from the udders.
She filled the vessel and offered Nilkanth some milk rice and
sugar. Varni was satisfied with the meal rinsed his mouth and
got up to leave.
Then Nanibai said Maharaj now please stay in our house.
Nilkanth replied Mother I shall come again. I shall come several
times and will stay in your house. I will go now as I have several
things to do. Your son and your family are very fortunate. They
will all become devotees. You will all worship me. With these
blessings he returned to the Ramji mandir.
After the evening arti Nilkanth prophesied to the priest These
murtis (of Shri Ram Lakshman3 and Sita) will behoused in a
magnificent mandir that will be built here.
The village folks were greatly attracted towards Nilkanths
divine personality. They told him to make Bochasan his home.
Then the priest said What will this boy do here? There is
no need for him here. Nilkanth smiled and said I am not one
inclined to stay in such a small place. For me there will be a huge
abode here.
Early next morning Nilkanth left Bochasan and travelled
ahead.
3 In time, these sacred murtis were installed in the central shrine of hte Akshar Purushottam mandir built in Bochasan by Shastriji Maharaj in 1907 ce and renamed
as Iccharam and Raghuvirji Maharaj.
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75
Shikotar river. On the way he met a man. His ugly clothes and bag
made Nilkanth ask him Brother who are you? And what do you
have in your bag?
The man said I am of the Koli community and Lakho is my
name. My bag contains fish that I have caught.
Nilkanth was greatly pained on hearing this. He said
Brother among Kolis there have been many devotees. Having
said this he pointed his finger at the bag and added Why have
you killed so many fish? And when will you be liberated from
such sins? Every word of Varni sent a chill down Lakhos spine.
Nilkanth asked further Brother! Wont God ask you why you
have killed so many of his creatures? What right have you to kill
living beings?
Lakhos conscience was pricked. Tears rolled down his cheeks.
With folded hands he said In this dreadful drought because I
could not get any grains I had to take to this occupation. It is
no doubt a sin to kill living creatures but I had to do it out of
necessity.
Varni replied Lakho dont Banias and Brahmins get grains?
They are not dying out of hunger? Similarly if you decide to eat
only grains God will certainly provide for your needs and you will
have no famine in your house.
Then Nilkanth touched Lakhos bag and all the dead fish
were revived and released into the river. Lakhos heart became
unburdened and light. He was convinced that Nilkanth is God.
He fell at his feet and requested O Brahmachariji! Pease stay in
Vadgam tonight. It is evening and the road ahead is deserted. And
besides where the rivers Mahi and Sabarmati meet the water is
deep and impossible to cross. And to add more there is the threat
of tigers and leopards lurking in the bushes on the opposite bank.
Varni listened quietly and then said Lakho! I feel like going to
places where the way is more difficult and dangerous the river
waters are deeper and the fear of tigers and leopards are greater.
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Nilkanth Charitra
Wherever I set foot fear vanishes from there. Saying this he took
Lakho to the shore of Shikotar.
The sun had already set. There was an eerie silence all around.
But the noise produced by the confluence of the two rivers made
the place appear more dangerous than it actually was. Lakho
pleaded once again Maharaj it is very difficult to cross this point.
Even ace swimmers cant make it because of the terrible waves.
Therefore let the tide ebb by tomorrow and then you can cross it.
Tomorrow I shall take you to Dholera.
But these appeals fell on deaf ears. Nilkanth said When I
cross I will wave my deer skin to show that I have crossed over
safely. Lakhos reverence and affection for Nilkanth who had
brought about a change in his heart and revived the dead fish
had increased.
After blessing Lakho Nilkanth set foot on the water and started
walking briskly. Lakho was astonished to see Nilkanth walking on
the water. In the darkness he saw a trail of light reach the opposite
shore. When Nilkanth waved his deer skin Lakho realized that
the divine Brahmachari had left him. He felt sad at heart and
rushed to the village to proclaim the glory of Varni. It appeared to
one and all that a great soul endowed with divine qualities had
graced their village with his presence.
Nilkanth arrived at Vagad to spend the night. A potter Rana
Bavaloj offered him a mattress but the young celibate preferred
to sleep on a heap of soil as was his discipline.
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Nilkanth Charitra
Nilkanth ate a little of what he had cooked and gave the rest as
prasad to Bhagwansinh and Jiva. Both of them felt happy and
experienced inner peace. Nilkanth left after promising to return
again.
Nilkanth reached Dihor. There he met several old men chitchatting in the village square. He gave them a discourse. Then a
Bhavsar lady and her son Mulji devoutly gave alms to Varni and
took back the remainder as prasad.
Nilkanth then arrived at Lakadiya. Premji Thakkar was a
devout man. He had a mat made of grass reeds that he desired to
offer to a jogi or great sadhu. Nilkanth came to his shop and said
You will not find a jogi like me in countless universes. Nilkanth
sanctified the mat and then took the road to Nana Gopnath.
Varni offered worship to Bholanath and arrived in Piparla. Here
a Brahmin lady devotedly gave Nilkanth a freshly made puffed-up
rotlo with ghee. The Brahmachari appreciated her devotion by
accepting it and peeled the top layer. To her surprise the lady saw
a universe in the rotlo and realized the glory of Nilkanths divine
form.
On arriving in Gopnath Nilkanth with his eyes cast down was
going with great speed. A woman was coming from the opposite
direction. She stood still after watching the lightning speed at
which Varni was going. She was convinced of his extraordinary
spiritual powers and uttered spontaneously O Maharaj! Please
stop.
Varni stopped in his footsteps and looked behind. The lady
came running to him. She was astonished when she came near.
What have you in the little pot? Nilkanth enquired.
Maharaj it is filled with milk. Please have it she said.
Varni filtered the milk into his gourd and drank it. Then he
asked her Sister who are you?
She replied I stay at Pithalpur. We are Khojas by community
and my name is Janbai. It is my practice to offer milk to Mahadevji
79
every day but if I meet anyone on the way then I offer it as a rule
to that person.
Nilkanth then responded Janbai! Today Mahadev himself
has accepted the milk you have offered. Nilkanth then blessed
her with his divine vision and she experienced a feeling of peace
within.
On arriving in Mahuva Nilkanth had a bath in the river Malan
and then came across Pitambar Sheth. The latter offered fruits to
Nilkanth. The Brahmachari blessed him and he became a devotee.
Nilkanth stayed under a tamarind tree by the Hanumanji shrine
in Mahuva. He was given alms by the bawas on the first day the
merchants on the second and bawa Fulvanis place on the third.
Each day Nilkanth would bathe in the river and then meditate by
the banks.
Varni then arrived in Guptaprayag via Tulsishyam. Here he
sat under a rayan tree. Each day after bathing he would deliver
discourses to pilgrims. Bhana Pathak of Vadnagar used to offer
him food with reverence.
One day he asked Nilkanth Yatiraj whats your name?
My name is Sahajanand. People will know me by this name
in future.
Bhana Pathak was pleased at Nilkanths words. Brahmachari
Nrusinhanand of the Sheshshayi mandir also offered alms to
Nilkanth. His request for the water reservoirs to remain full all the
year round was granted by Nilkanth. Varni stayed at this beautiful
pilgrim place for 1 months.
Nilkanth arrived at the village of Dolaha and stayed at a
shepherds settlement. When the shepherd offered alms Nilkanth
refused it. But he asked for cows milk and drank it. At night the
shepherds guru arrived. The settlement was filled with the sound
of bhajans. It was late night when everyone retired to bed. Varni
was sleeping near the guru. Every time the guru changed sides
he uttered O Ram! And Nilkanth naturally responded with
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Nilkanth Charitra
Yes. When this happened three to four times the guru got up
and asked
Are you Ram?
Nilkanth replied Yes. Only he who is Ram will reply to the
name.
And then Nilkanth appeared in the form of Bhagwan Ram to
the guru. The guru was convinced of Varnis divinity. Early next
morning Nilkanth left for Lodhva.
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make and serve you a good meal. Nilkanth told him I cannot
wait till the food is cooked. I am on a pilgrimage. You may bring
whatever is ready. And he added If the food is not ready then
I shall leave. And Nilkanth started walking away. As he left he
shot a glance at the Shaligram being worshipped by Narsinh
Mehta. At this a miracle happened. A bright light issued from the
Shaligram.
And Narsinh Mehta soon came out of the house. Not seeing
Nilkanth he asked Kalyanji Where is that ascetic with whom
you were talking? Kalyanji replied He was asking for food
right now. I requested him to wait so that I could get something
for him. But he did not wait and went away. On hearing this
Narsinh Mehta sent Kalyanji running to the outskirts of the village
in search of Nilkanth. He met him on the outskirts prostrated at
his feet prayed to him and brought him back to his home.
Nilkanth said Dont delay. Bring whatever that can be
prepared at once.
Narsinh Mehta milked the buffalo and offered him fresh milk
and juvar. After the meal Nilkanth gave Narsinh Mehta darshan
in the form of Chaturbhuj Narayan. Narsinh Mehta offered his
pranams and recalled the words of his guru Ramanand Swami
I am an incarnation of Uddhavji. Purushottam Prabhu will come
later and accept your service. At that time he also heard a voice
from the sky in Girnar saying God himself will come to your
house and give darshan in the form of Chaturbhuj Narayan.
Narsinh Mehta fell at the feet of Nilkanth and narrated the
whole story to him. Nilkanth asked him How did you hear the
voice from the sky?
Narsinh Mehta began to narrate his story From childhood I had
yearned to meet God. Everyday I worshipped God and performed
charitable and religious acts but could not find God. Then I left
home and wandered in Girnar. I met a number of jogis jatis and
bawas but I could not get mental peace. The fire of worldly desires
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Nilkanth in Loj
89
After filling the pitcher he once again came and stood before
Nilkanth. He experienced the bliss of the young Brahmacharis
darshan. In a short time Nilkanth opened his eyes.
The sadhu who was greatly impressed by his lustrous eyes
asked Brahmachari where have you come from? What is your
name? What are the names of your parents? What made you
renounce the world? Who is your Guru?
Nilkanth smiled and replied Sadhuram one who has
renounced does not have caste country or relatives. Whoever
frees him from worldly ties are his true parents and guru. I
have come in search of such a guru. The sadhu enquired again
with folded hands. Nilkanth asked Sadhuram what is your
name? Whose disciple are you? To what Sampradaya do you
belong?
The sadhu replied My name is Sukhanand. Our guru is Swami
Ramanand. He is an acharya of the Ramanuja Sampradaya. His
ashram is here and 50 sadhus live in that ashram.
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all the way without any conveyance. What was the object of this
ordeal?
He endured all this to redeem innumerable jivas. By mere
association with himself he redeemed innumerable animals and
insects birds and beasts. He gave darshan to many aspirants
to thousands of devotees yearning for his darshan for countless
births and fulfilled their quest and blessed them with deliverance.
He exposed the hypocrisy of the pseudo-sadhus vairagis and
bawas and taught them a lesson. By the sheer force of his divine
glance and firm resolve he destroyed evil people thus opening
the way to worship free from danger for the devotees of God.
He redeemed thousands of sages and sadhus who had been
performing penance for many years in forests and mountains. He
gave refuge to thousands of souls.
Nilkanth sanctified the whole land of Bharat through his
spiritual odyssey. He sanctified the lakes wells rivers and oceans.
He revived the pilgrim places. He purified mandirs through his
divine presence. He preached to the sages and sadhus living in
hermitages and monasteries by his pure and flawless conduct.
He directed those who wanted to become sadhus and desired
redemption on the road to Kathiawad with the intention of making
them paramhansas.
Wherever he went Nilkanth preached the gospel of ahimsa
and brahmacharya and for sadhus established the importance
of renouncing women and wealth. He explained the duties of
householders sages and kings. He made a deep study of the pilgrim
places mandirs lives of sages and sadhus and the philosophy and
customs and traditions of many sampradayas. He made a mental
note of the essential attributes of them all as practised in different
parts of the country.
Wherever he went Nilkanth probed whether there were
any sadhus and sampradayas favouring abjuration of women
and wealth. He tried to see whether they believed that God is
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Miracles Galore
99
Nilkanth begs for alms in Loj and performs menial services in the ashram
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dung for fuel the village girls and women would also come onto
the streets to collect dung in their baskets. Everyone would rush
to get the dung. Whenever any girl or woman bent down to pick
a lump of dung Varni would use his divine powers and make her
see the universe in it. On seeing rivers mountains trees chasms
jungles clouds lightening etc. the women would step back in
fear and leave the dung alone. Nilkanth would then pick it up and
thus collect the maximum amount of dung. He would then make
dung cakes by mixing it with hay and grass.
Sheel village was six kilometres from Loj. Two devotees had an
abundant crop of cucumbers on their farms. They decided to give
the cucumbers to Muktanand Swami for the purpose of making
pickles for Guru Ramanand Swami. Sothey came to Muktanand
Swami and requested We have an abundance of cucumbers in
our farm. Please send 12 to 15 devotees to handpick the best. It is
our wish to have the cucumbers dried and pickled for Ramanand
Swami.
Muktanand Swami told Sukhanand Swami Go now to the
village centre and send 12 to 15 devotees to bring the cucumbers
from Sheel.
Nilkanth who was listening to the conversation said
Muktanand Swami there is no need to call the devotees. I shall
go to the village today with Deva Bhakta and bring the whole lot
of cucumbers.
Muktanand Swami tried to dissuade him Nilkanth you are
two weak. Besides the two of you will not be able to carry a load
of 15 to 20 maunds of cucumbers for a distance of six kilometres.
Therefore take a few devotees to help you.
But Nilkanth was persistent This service Ill render myself. It
will be of no labour or difficulty at all. And so saying Varni went
to Sheel with Deva Bhakta to bring the cucumbers. After they
reached Sheel village Varni and Deva Bhakta picked 18 maunds
of cucumber. Then a devotee told them to wait. I shall get a
Miracles Galore
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People are amazed to see the bundles of cucumber above Nilkanths head
Soon they reached Loj. Nilkanth set down the load inside the
ashram and announced The cucumbers have arrived. Now tell
the sadhus to take them inside in basketfuls. When Muktanand
Swami came with fifteen sadhus he was surprised to see the size
of the larger bundle. Deva Bhakta told what had happened to
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105
Varni will give you a lot more and make you happier. And
then Ramanand Swami distributed sugar crystals to all the
devotees.
The next day Ramanand Swami wrote letters to Varniraj and
Muktanand Swami and instructed Mayaram Bhatt to return with
the two letters. He said to him Mayaram take these two letters
and give them to Muktanand Swami. On your way inform all the
devotees about Varnis arrival in the villages you pass through.
And tell them that I have instructed everyone to go to Loj for his
darshan.
After a few days Mayaram reached Loj. He delivered the
letters to Muktanand Swami. In his letter to Muktanand Swami
Ramanand Swami wrote Take care of Varni. He is not of this
world which you will realize in future. Arrange for all the sadhus
to learn ashtang yoga from him. I shall come at the end of Vaishakh
month. To Nilkanth Varni Ramanand Swami wrote Take care of
your body because you have still to accomplish many tasks. Stay
there at present. Do not be in a hurry to come here.
Teach asthang yoga to all the sadhus. As you are eager for my
darshan I too am equally eager for yours. But I have to travel for
the spread of Satsang and please the devotees.
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The day of this historic meeting was 19 June 1800 (Jeth vad
12, Samvat 1856). News was coveyed to Ramanand Swami that
Nilkanth Varni and sadhus had arrived in Piplana. On hearing
this Ramanand Swami happily got up from his seat. Soon the
group of sadhus arrived. Nilkanth was at the front. On seeing
Ramanand Swami he started prostrating. The guru ran towards
the young Brahmachari raised him and embraced him.
Then Ramanand Swami said Muktanand Swami do you
know that the alms-centres we have started in the villages are
for this Varniraj? I have been waiting for him to come for a long
time. Then Ramanand Swami spoke about the glory of Nilkanth
to all the sadhus.
Then a sadhu asked him Swami you had often said that the
main player of the show is yet to come. Is it this Varni?
Yes it is him. It is your great fortune to have met him today.
And when you realize his true form your joy will know no bounds!
replied Ramanand Swami.
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Glossary
A
adad
a type of pulse
advait
philosophy of absolute non-dualism
ahimsa non-violence
Akhatrij
third day of the bright half of the month of
Vaishakh (May-June)
Akshar
divine abode of Bhagwan Swaminarayan;
Gunatitanand Swami
Akshardham
the abode of Bhagwan Swami-narayan;
Gunatitanand Swami
akshay patra
inexhaustible bowl which gives food by
wishing
akshividya
a yogic practice
ankush
one of 16 holy signs on Gods feet; it is
shaped like a thin-edged weapon to drive
and steer an elephant
annakut
a variety of food dishes offered to God.
ardhachandra
one of 16 holy signs on Gods feet; it is
shaped like the half curve of the moon
arti
a ritual of moving a lighted lamp in ones
Glossary119
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brahmacharya celibacy
Brahmadham
divine abode of Bhagwan Swaminarayan;
Akshardham
brahmagnan
knowledge of Brahman
brahmarup
one who has realized Brahman. A
transcendental state free of mundane
desires and unbroken communion with
Parabrahman
brahmavidya
knowledge of Brahman
C
chandlo
chandan
Charan
charmavari
Chaturbhuj
chaturmas
choghadias
D
daharvidya
darbar
darshan
Dattatray
deep
deva
dharma
Dharmadev
dhanushya
a yogic practice
court of residence belonging to a king or rural
ruler, traditionally with a central courtyard
surrounded by rooms with verandas
seeing with reverence or devotion
an incarnation of God
lighted lamp
deity; divine being
righteousness,
morality,
religion,
responsibility and duty
Nilkanths father
bow; one of the 16 signs on Gods feet
shaped like a bow
Glossary121
dharana concentration
dhol
large drum
dhoti
a yogic practice
dhyan
meditation; contemplation
dhun
repeated recital of name of God accompanied
by clapping
diksha
initiation into ascetism
F
Falgun
G
gadi
Gangaji
Gita
gopad
graha
guru
guru mantra
H
Hatkeshwar Mahadev a form of Bhagwan Shiv
J
Jagannathji
jamadar
jambu
Bhagwan Krishna
chief of police
one of 16 holy signs on Gods feet; it is
shaped like a blackberry
Janmashtmi Shravan vad 8; Bhagwan Krishnas
birthday
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jata
big tuft of hair
jati ascetic
jav barley
jiva
individual soul
jivanmukta
emancipated from the bondage of
life
jnan
spiritual knowledge, wisdom
jogi
an ascetic, one who is God-realized
juvar millet
Jyotirling
one of the self-born twelve phallic
representations of Shiv in various parts of
India
K
kalash
kalpurush
water pot
an entity that is invoked in a gold murti
which redeems anyone of disease and other
afflictions
kamandal gourd
kanthi
a double-threaded necklace usually made
of tulsi beads worn by satsangis as a sign of
affiliation to Bhagwan Swaminarayan
karma
action, deed
Kartik
month of Hindu calendar (October/
November)
Kathiawad
Saurashtra region in Gujarat
kavad
bamboo lath borne on the shoulder with
slings at both ends for carrying pitchers,
etc.
ketu
one of 16 holy signs on Gods feet; it is
shaped like a banner
khichdi
cooked preparation of rice and dal grains
kirtan
devotional song
Glossary123
kosh
Kumbha Mela
kumkum
kunjar
L
ladoo
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Nilkanth Charitra
muhurt
an auspicious time
mukta
emancipated soul
muni
sage; austere person
murti
deity in stone, painting, etc
muth dal
split brown gram, a kind of pulse
muth monastery
N
Nagar Brahmin
highest class of Brahmin
naishthik
staunch religious faith
Naradji
an ancient Indian Sage
Nar-Narayan
Bhagwan Krishna with Arjun
Narayan God
neti
preliminary purificatory exercises in Hath
yoga
nirakar
formless; impersonal
nirgun
beyond qualities
P
pagh
like a turban; an attire placed on head
panchajiri
item made of sugar and dhana
niyam precept
paramhansa
the best of the four types of sannyasis
padma
one of 16 holy signs on Gods feet; it is
shaped like a lotus
padmasan
a yogic posture
patidar
title of respect given to a Patel
Parvati
wife of Bhagwan Shiv
Prabodhini Ekadashi eleventh day of the bright half of the month
of Kartik
pranam
a gesture of respect in which one folds ones
hands and bows
pranayam
regulation and restraint of breath; the
Glossary125
prasad
pratyahar
puja
pujan
pujari
Purushottam
R
rajas
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Samvat
sandhya
Nilkanth Charitra
Indian year
a religious ablution and prayer among the
twice-born or Hindus performed in the
morning, noon and evening
sandhya vandan
Gayatri worship in the evening
sannyasi
Indian ascetic
sarovar lake
sathvo
preparation made of flour
satchitanand existence-consciousness-bliss
sati
chaste lady
satsang
spiritual association through listening of
discourses, etc.
satsangi
member of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya
sattva
quality of light, purity and goodness
Satyug
golden era; era of truth
setubandh bridge
seva
service to God; service to man
Shaligram
black round smooth piece of stone
worshipped as the symbol of Bhagwan
Vishnu
sharnai
Indian clarion
shastras scriptures
Shesh-shayya
bed of serpents
shira-puri
a sweet and savoury dish
Shravan
a month of the Indian calendar. Corrresponds
to July-August
Shri Ranchhodrai
Bhagwan Krishna
siddhi
accomplishments, achievements; extraordinary powers acquired as a result of gruelling austerities or naturally through spiritual maturity in yogic endeavours
siddha
realized soul; a perfect yogi
Shridevi
a goddess
Glossary127
sukhdi
a type of sweet delicacy
surval
similar to a pair of trousers
Suryanarayan
sun god
swarup form
swastik
auspicious sign; one of the 16 holy signs on
Gods feet
swastik-asan
a yogic posture
swayambhu self-made
T
tamas
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Nilkanth Charitra
V
vachan siddh