The city of Cambridge continues to stand as a witness to historical landmarks. Renowned Indian spiritual guru and preacher, Pujya Morari Bapu, started his Ram Katha on 12 August in the premises of Jesus College, Cambridge University. The event is organised with the support of Lord Dolar Popat’s family and youngsters in Britain.
Pujya Bapu, while spreading the essence of the Ram Katha, mentioned, "We have arrived in the premises of this renowned university with the global holy scriptures of the universal Ram Charit Manas.
“This is why I have named this Katha as ‘Manas Vishwavidhyalay’. Manas is a universal university, consisting of seven divisions - Bal Kand, Ayodhya Kand, Aranya Kand, Kishkindha Kand, Sundar Kand, Lanka Kand and Uttar Kand. A distinguished dynasty is seated in these seven divisions.”
Bapu said, "I am a student of that university, whose dean is Goswami Tulsidas. It’s not a long course here, just a sole fundamental subject which is faith. Also, admission is open to all irrespective of caste and creed."
Morari Bapu further added, "Vrindavan is the university of love, Chitrakoot is the university of truth, and Kailash is the university of compassion. The first lesson in my university is the art of detachment. Peace prevails when we irradicate emotional attachment and hatred from our home and our heart. The subsequent lessons are about impartiality, fearlessness, equability and tranquility."
Bapu added, "The sun, truth, and love can never be suppressed. We can never get away from desires without compassion, charity, and penance. One should maintain a broad perspective. This university serves as a means to eliminate sins"
Placing the pious scripture on his head, Lord Popat carried it to the designated spot of the katha
Lord Popat's family placed the holy scripture on their head and carried it to the designated spot. The Popat family was joined by the devotees in welcoming Bapu at the venue. It was the first visit of Bapu to the Cambridge and thousands of people thronged to hear him. Eminent personalities such as Anil Agarwal, Pradip Dhamecha, and Ramesh Sachdev, along with other dignitaries also expressed their heartfelt greetings to Bapu.
A devotional atmosphere with the recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa and Vedic mantras was created. Rudra Sachdev presented the entire outline of the program, conveying that “this katha is a symbol of the longstanding connections between Indian and western cultures, nurtured over a significant period. Cambridge is an inspiring city enriched with history, culture, and global research endeavours. One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the worldis witnessing a Hindu spiritual program. The concept of the Ram Katha program at Jesus College, Cambridge, embodies the universal principles of peace and truth, love, and compassion, spreading the message of these values around the world.”
In the welcoming address, Lord Dolar Popat expressed, “On behalf of my government, all devotees and followers, I extend a heartfelt welcome to Pujya Bapu.
“Through the Ram Katha, Bapu will bring together knowledge and spirituality. Cambridge is a place where education and revolution for the youth are nurtured.”
Describing Morari Bapu he said, “He is a powerful transformative instrument and his discourses instill positive change and inspire individuals for personal growth. His life serves as an inspiration to make constructive alterations, teaching people through his lectures and guiding them towards self-improvement. This event will comprehensively explore the importance of global literature, mythological tales and cultural narratives as integral aspects of education.”
Message from King Charles
Lord Popat conveyed the messages of His Majesty King Charles at the venue, in which the King extended his greetings for this event to the British-Hindu communities.
A unique presentation of the Ram Charit Manas through fusion musical programme
Cambridge University's professor Kavibhave presented a unique fusion of Indian and Western classical music along with an alumni group, showcasing the Ram Charit Manas.
A special conversation with the Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne OBE
Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne OBE, expressed her pleasure on the occasion. She mentioned that she has had a unique spiritual experience and had the opportunity to get closer to Hindu culture. She added, “This has become a memorable moment in my life. The messages of truth, love, and compassion are worth emulating for every religion, tradition, and the entire world. I welcome everyone at Cambridge. It is a matter of great pride for us that Cambridge's halls are adorned with such beautiful arrangements, where knowledge and science go hand in hand, along with highlighting the values of human life. This effort to pass on the religious and cultural heritage to the new generation is commendable.”
