2011 - Vasanth Panchami Celebrations in Bangalore

Shri Simandhar Shantisurishwarji Guru Mandir in V.V Puram Bangalore, celebrated Guru Dev's birthday and Diksha Divas - known as वसंत पंचमी . This is Guru Dev's 121st birth anniversay. His birth place is Manadhar in Rajasthan and Diksha place - Ramseen in Rajasthan.




Guru Dev's father was Bhim Tola Ji and mother was Vasudevi. His birth name was Sagthoji. He took diksha when he was around 15 years old. His Guru was Shri Tirth Vijay Ji and his Dada Guru was Shri Dharam Vijay Ji. Guru Dev's demise happened in Achalgarh and was his last rites were performed in Mandoli (1943). The Mandoli Samadhi Mandir, his first temple was consecrated on Vasanth Panchami in the year 1945.

The celebrations included marvelous and glittering Angi, using gems. Was not lucky to capture high quality pictures this time, as did not carry my camera :( It also had devotional bhakthi, quizzes on Guru Dev and Jain Thirthankars. Not the least, prizes based on lucky draws. Folks were fully enthused with their prayers and wishes for Guru Dev.

ॐ अर्हम नमः

गुरु श्री - गुरु कृपा

Guru bhakths like us are all gifted, that we have found our Guru in Shri Shanti Guru Dev. It is very unique that we have our Guru and continuing to have his Guru Krupa on thousands of devotees, even after his attainment of dev log in the year 1943. This is very exceptional for a Jain Saadhu, especially who had no formal disciples. His mahima is so great, that two or more generations now find their Guru in him.

As far as my farthest memory goes, I had heard about Shri Shanti Vijay Surishwarji from my Grand Father. I used to see his picture at my Grandfather’s shop, whenever I used to visit them during our summer vacations. Never did I ever realize then, that I will find my Guru in him! However, as I grew up with various religions, gods and Jain munis, I used to feel that “one single source” in which ever form or shape it may be, is needed for my inspirations. That missing link “Guru Krupa” got connected, because of my wife. If not for her, I don’t think I would have been fortunate to find his blessings.

In the last few weeks, I have been wondering, as to what brings in such high level of inspirations, energy and devotions in his Guru bhakths, especially the current generations who are driven by logic and science! It includes my own self reflections. We all must have heard different things about Guru Dev’s greatness, his principles, ideologies etc. and must have got inspired through them.

I urge that each of us share thoughts and ideas about Guru Dev’s principles, ideologies etc., which will be of great value to the Guru Bhakth fraternity. Through this, I am sure, that we all will continue to learn more about him and his preachings to make our life lighter, brighter and continue being blessed by Guru Krupa.

Please do share your thoughts using the "Comments" section/link below.

ॐ अर्हम नमः