A grand satsang sabha was recently held at Anoopam Mission, Denham, London, in the divine presence of Param Pujya Sahebdada, to welcome the auspicious visit of Goswami 108 Param Shraddheya Shri Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including renowned businessman and philanthropist Pradipbhai Dhamecha, a devoted follower of Sanatan Hindu Dharma who lives by the ideal of "सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः - May all beings be happy";
Narendra Thakrar, Chairman of Shree Vallabh Nidhi UK and a leading representative of Hindu Sanatan Mandir; and trustees of Shreejidham Haveli Leicester, Ashokbhai Patel and Ashwinbhai Patel. The gathering was also attended by saints, trustees and devotees of Anoopam Mission, creating a spiritually uplifting and memorable occasion.
The programme began with a welcome address by Bhavishaben, followed by the traditional pujan and presentation of a floral garland to Goswami 108 Param Shraddheya Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj.
The Anoopam Survrund then presented soulful devotional kirtans, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. In his discourse, Goswami 108 Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj said that the divine ways of God are beyond human understanding and that His leelas are infinite, profound and beyond comprehension.
The mysterious journey between birth and death
Speaking on the profound meaning of life and death, Goswami 108 Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj said that no one knows when, where or under what circumstances a person will be born, nor the time, place or way they will depart from this world. Such mysteries remain known only to the Divine.
Quoting the verses of King Bhartruhari, he explained that just as a river is unaware of where it begins, the mountains and rocks it will traverse, or how it will ultimately reach the sacred Triveni Sangam, human life too is an unpredictable journey. Every turn of this journey unfolds according to God's whims and wishes.
Spiritual symbolism of the Nand Mahotsav
Explaining the spiritual symbolism of the Nand Mahotsav verse, "Haathi Diye, Ghoda Diye Aur Diye Paalkhi...", Goswami 108 Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj offered a deeper interpretation of its meaning. He explained:
- The elephant symbolises our vast past. As a person reaches the twilight of life, the memories and experiences accumulated over the years appear immense, much like an elephant.
- The horse represents human ambition and the relentless pursuit of success. Once established in life, people continue striving for greater achievements, wealth and recognition, constantly racing forward like a horse.
- The palanquin signifies life's final destination. Ultimately, when the soul returns to the abode of the Divine, the mortal body is carried on the shoulders of four people in its final journey, reminding us that all worldly pursuits eventually culminate in our return to God.
Five elements and the sixteen Samskaras
The human body is composed of the five great elements (Panch Mahabhutas)—earth, water, fire, air and space. In Sanskrit, the term used for death is Panchatvam Gatah, which means that the body returns to and merges with the five elements from which it was created.
It was further explained that in Hindu Dharma, the tradition of the sixteen Samskaras begins with Garbhadhana (the rite of conception) and concludes with the Antyeshti (final rites or cremation). One who observes and upholds this sacred tradition of the sixteen Samskaras is regarded as a true follower of Hindu Dharma.
Divine personality of Param Pujya Sahebdada
Speaking about Param Pujya Sahebdada, Goswami 108 Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj described him as an extraordinary spiritual personality of the present era. He said that Sahebdada's life exemplifies unconditional transformation, rising above worry, sorrow and suffering while radiating the innocence, selflessness and joyful smile of a child. His transparency, honesty and unwavering dedication, he added, are a source of inspiration for all, with his personality and character being equally pure and transparent.
Maharajshri also praised the modern and scientific approach adopted in developing crematoriums in both the western world and India, describing it as a revolutionary initiative that has brought dignity, efficiency and a progressive outlook to the performance of final rites.
He also acknowledged and appreciated the dedicated service of Pujya Himmat Swamiji, Satishbhai, Pradipbhai, Narendrabhai and Bhavishaben.
Blessings by Sant Bhagwant Sahebdada
Offering his blessings, Sant Bhagwant Sahebdada expressed his heartfelt joy at the visit of Pujya Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj, saying that the blessings of revered saints such as Yogiji Maharaj and Dwarkeshlalji Maharaj are among the greatest spiritual treasures in life.
He added that Maharajshri's auspicious visit to Anoopam Mission would bring renewed momentum to the construction of the crematorium. The programme concluded with the distribution of prasad.
Pujya Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharajshri honoured at the UK Parliament
HDH Shashthpithadishwar Pujya Pad Goswami 108 Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharajshri has been honoured at the UK Parliament with the Award of Excellence by the World Book of Records, London. The prestigious recognition celebrates his outstanding contribution for promoting spiritual awareness, upholding humanitarian values and preserving the rich traditions and teachings of Pushtimarg.
To mark this achievement, a grand felicitation ceremony was held at the Dhamecha Lohana Centre on 26 June. Shree Dwarkeshlalji Maharajshri was honoured by Pradipbhai Dhamecha of the Dhamecha Group and Narendra Thakrar, Chairman of Shree Vallabh Nidhi UK.
The evening was also graced by the presence of Param Pujya Sant Bhagwant Jashbhai Saheb, who delivered a discourse on "The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita in the 21st Century.”
During the event, Narendra Thakrar highlighted Pujya Maharajshri's significant contribution to the establishment and development of Shree Sanatan Hindu Mandir, Wembley, and his continued service to the community.
A detailed report will be published in next week's edition.
