The memory of Aso Vad Ekam, 2010 was still alive in seekers’ hearts, when they had gathered for the momentous opening of Shri Atmasiddhishastra Rachnabhoomi, at the historical site of Nadiad. It was here that 117 years ago Param Krupalu Dev’s inner wisdom manifested in the form of the epic text, Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra. Now, 3 years later, on the same day, around 700 mumukshus congregated to behold the inauguration of an idyllic Jalmandir at the very site.

An Auspicious Inauguration

Against the backdrop of the twinkling sky, Pujyashri Gurudev arrived at Shri Atmasiddhishastra Rachnabhoomi on the evening of October 18. The sweet fragrance of devotion suffused the air as spirited raas-garba had hearts leap joyously in the Sadguru’s presence. An inspiring address by Adarniya Shri Uttambhai Shah was a fitting finale to the evening.

The dawn of October 19 seemed fuller and brighter as though anticipating the blissful events of the day ahead. After a touching dance dedication by the Ahmedabad Youth Group, the ceremony began with an endearing felicitation of two swadhyaykars, Adarniya Shri Maganbhai Patel and Adarniya Shri Uttambhai Shah, for their life-long dedication to spreading Param Krupalu Dev’s teachings. Even at the age of 100, Adarniya Shri Maganbhai Patel’s resounding voice touched listeners as he extolled Param Krupalu Dev’s virtues.

Pujyashri Gurudev’s pravachan inspired seekers to honour Param Krupalu Dev’s masterpiece, Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra, not only by venerating it, but by using it as a key to go within. He urged all to sincerely strive to unveil inner treasures, manifest the True Self, and thus fulfil Param Krupalu Dev’s vision behind composing this text.

The much awaited moment of the inauguration arrived. Devotees were rejoicing and singing with gusto, as the curtain was drawn revealing the splendid octagonal Jalmandir. The crowd let out euphoric cries at the first glimpse of the larger-than-life size idol of their beloved Param Krupalu Dev. The Master offered flowers and garlanded the pratimaji amid the enthused recitation of Param Krupalu Dev’s hallowed name and prostrated in shashtang dandvat pranam. The whole rachnabhoomi took on a jubilant rhythm as each corner reverberated with devotees dancing to the chants. Seekers lost track of time and space, engulfed only by Param Krupalu Dev’s devoutness. A deeply connecting arti ensued.

Aesthetic Divinity

The elegant Jalmandir lies amidst a serene lake enhancing its beauty and sanctity. Indicating His naturally detached and unblemished state, a majestic 5 foot 3 inch fibre pratimaji of Param Krupalu Dev in padmasan posture graces a white lotus in the centre of the Jalmandir. The tree behind Param Krupalu Dev’s pratimaji symbolises His eternal shelter to all. A walking track has been designed surrounding the Jalmandir ensuring that all those who use it, will automatically perform a pradakshina around Param Krupalu Dev. Engraved wooden panels bearing Param Krupalu Dev’s quotes embellish the track. The construction of the Jalmandir is such that people will be blessed by the glimpse of the Compassionate One even from the road outside.

Commendable Contributions

The generous sponsors of the entire Jalmandir project, Shri Dilipbhai Shah and his family were felicitated. The core team led by Steering Committee member Sharnarpit Manoj Shah along with architect Deven Mehta, structural engineer Kirtibhai Shah and other sevaks such as Ashish Shah, Sarvarpit Dipan Parekh, Premarpit Deepakbhai Chitalia, Sarvarpit Jignesh Shah, Sharnarpit Ketan Shah, Premarpit Ashwinbhai Sanghvi, Sharnarpit Naresh Lunavat, Sarvarpit Snehal Shah and Premarpit Nareshbhai Jhatakia who selflessly utilised their skills for this noble project received mementos from Pujyashri Gurudev. On this pious occasion Premarpit Sudhirbhai-Jayshreeben Talsania as well as Dilipbhai-Sarojben Shah took the vow of life-long celibacy.

Through innumerable ways and means, Param Krupalu Dev’s grace is steadfastly guiding seekers towards the shores of liberation. Let us delight in His refuge.