A Journey of Faith and Protection: My Spiritual Path with Guruji and Swami Ji

I offer my most humble obeisance to my Guruji, Swami Shri Sudarshanacharya Ji Maharaj. My acquaintance with Guruji and the Shri Sidhdata Ashram began in March 2005 when I attended my first satsang. I had no idea what to expect. I did not realize then what impact this association would have on my life and those of my family. Like everyone, I have various relationships in my life—as a daughter, wife, mother, sister, and so on—but the relationship of a devotee is what I treasure most.

My faith in Guruji and his ashram has grown in leaps and bounds over the years. My experiences with Guruji’s grace, kindness, and benevolence are so numerous that I could probably write a book on them. The first and most precious experience for me was when my husband and children started attending satsangs with me. Before I joined the Sidhdata Ashram, I had been attending satsangs at another ashram for five years, and not once did my husband and children join me. Two months after I joined the Victoria Street Gaddi, they accompanied me of their own accord.

Another profound experience I want to share is one I had with Swami Ji, Shri Purushotamacharya Ji. After only 10 months at the Durban Gaddi, I had the opportunity to visit Guruji’s Ashram in Faridabad with my family. We spent a full week at the ashram, which was the most peaceful and blissful time of my life. One evening, I decided to do Parikrama on my own. In South Africa, we always try to have company when we venture out due to the risk of muggings and crime. As I walked around the ashram, I felt a fear in my heart and mind that I was being followed and attacked.

When I reached the front of the ashram, Swami Ji was walking around supervising the preparations for Holi. I prostrated at his feet. He asked me if anyone was harming me. I couldn’t help but stare up at him in amazement. He knew exactly what was in my heart. He was there to protect and keep me safe. The concern, care, and love that Swami Ji showed me in that moment were more than my heart could handle. I just cried.

That was when I understood the true meaning of “Tvameva Mata Cha Pita Tvameva” “Tvameva Bandhu Cha Sakha Tvameva,” for in that moment Swami Ji became my mother and father, my protector and savior. My depression at losing my parents was lifted. My faith in God and Guru was restored that day.

There is no one dearer to me than my Guruji and Swami Ji. They are my life.

Shakila Nundlall – Durban