A young British female monk, clad in yellow robes, is going to participate in this year’s iconic London Marathon, not just as a physical challenge, but as a spiritual journey. Brahmacharini Shripriya Chaitanya, a resident Hindu monk at Chinmaya Mission UK, embodies a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern resilience. Her story goes beyond the race itself, it's a testament to how spiritual practice can offer inner strength and clarity in today’s fast-paced world.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Brahmacharini Shripriya shares what inspired her to run the marathon, how her spiritual training has shaped her preparation, and the deeper lessons she hopes to carry with her through the experience.
What inspired you to take on the challenge of running the London Marathon? Was there a specific moment or influence that led you to this decision?
This year holds particular significance as we approach a series of major milestones that celebrate the legacy of Chinmaya Mission: CHYK's (our dynamic youth wing) 50th anniversary in 2025, Chinmaya Mission's 75th in 2026, and the auspicious 108th Gurudev Jayanti (celebrating the life of Swami Chinmayananda) in 2024. Running this marathon is my way to celebrate these momentous occasions and honour all that Chinmaya Mission has been able to provide to our community. Also, the inspiration to run the London Marathon stems from respect for our Chinmaya Mission volunteers (sevaks) who dedicate themselves to this challenge each year.
Running a marathon requires immense dedication and perseverance. How do your spiritual practices and faith guide you through both training and the race itself?
Running a marathon demands immense dedication and perseverance, and my spiritual practices serve as a guiding light throughout the training process and when it comes to the race itself. Spirituality, at its core, is about cultivating a deep awareness and understanding of the mind. While the marathon is undeniably a physical challenge, it ultimately becomes a profound mental battle. My spiritual foundation provides the inner strength, resilience, and focus needed to overcome obstacles, push past perceived limitations, and connects me to a sense of purpose needed to overcome obstacles.
Can you share any teachings or personal reflections that help you stay focused and motivated when the journey gets tough—either during training or in life?
When the journey gets tough, I draw strength from the immense challenges Pujya Swami Chinmayananda endured to share life-changing Vedantic wisdom. His tireless efforts and sacrifices inspire me to see this marathon as a humble offering of gratitude. It keeps me focused and motivated, reminding me of the deeper purpose—to honour His legacy and share this timeless wisdom with others.
Would you say that spiritual self-discipline and athletic discipline are connected? If so, how do they reinforce each other in your daily routine?
Spiritual self-discipline and athletic discipline are deeply connected. Both require an understanding of oneself, a commitment to consistent effort, and the ability to overcome mental and physical limitations. They reinforce each other by cultivating a holistic sense of self-awareness and control, enhancing anyone’s ability to navigate daily life with intention and purpose. Understanding and mastering the mind, however, is key to both.
In your experience, how can ancient Vedic or spiritual teachings be applied to modern-day challenges like stress, anxiety, or burnout?
Ancient Vedic and spiritual teachings offer timeless wisdom that can be directly applied to modern-day challenges. These teachings guide us towards self-understanding and provide a framework for living a balanced and purposeful life. By understanding the secret to work, which is selfless dedicated action (Karma Yoga), discovering our unique purpose, and learning to manage our minds effectively, we can navigate the complexities of modern life and find lasting relief from stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Do you believe that your participation in events like the London Marathon can help break down stereotypes and open up space for greater appreciation of diverse cultures and belief systems?
I hope that by running the London Marathon I can help break down stereotypes and foster a greater appreciation for diverse cultures and belief systems. By demonstrating that ancient wisdom and modern challenges can coexist harmoniously, I aim to challenge preconceived notions and open up space for a more nuanced understanding of what it means to be a Hindu or a Brahmacharini.
How do you see your journey, combining ancient wisdom with modern challenges—as part of a larger movement toward holistic well-being and global understanding?
I see my journey as part of a global shift towards holistic well-being and deeper understanding. There's a growing awareness, especially among younger generations, of the need to nurture mind, body, and spirit. Ancient wisdom offers proven ways to achieve this balance, and Chinmaya Mission is committed to personal and societal growth. Through programs like Bala Vihar for children, CHYK for youth, adult study groups, and service initiatives in healthcare and education, the Mission offers accessible, transformative learning that promotes self-awareness, ethical living, and a deeper connection to the world.
