I am privileged to have been asked by CB kaka to write about my personal relationship with P. Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Over the last 30 years, I have had the privilege of serving him, and travelling with him, and other devotees, to Paris, Portugal, Israel, France and many more places.
As I got closer to him, I began to understand his great vision for not only Hindus but also all the people in this world.
I remember in Israel, he prayed in Jerusalem for world peace, he spoke at the UN and talked about "Not one faith, but faiths united in diversity”. Following the attack on Akshardham, he simply prayed for those that suffered. There was no hint of anger, only compassion.
He explained the need for big beautiful Mandirs, so that our younger generation can have pride in their culture. I remember him telling us that "you may have built the London Mandir, but it is a gift to all humanity”. His vision is immense, yet he always says that this is the vision of P. Yogibapa and Shastriji Maharaj, he accepts no credit!
I have had the privilege to experience his personal care of me, my family and our business. There was a time recently, when doctors had diagnosed a potential serious illness – Bapa simply said not to worry. As time progressed, doctors could not understand how the illness literally disappeared.
I remember joking with Bapa, that when I am involved with seva , somehow our business does better! To which he responded, “always stay in touch with office”. This little "seemingly insignificant" sentence has saved me from making big mistakes on numerous occasions. It is almost like he is constantly my companion, always watching over me. I remember him saying once to us “My hand is always stretched out to help, you simply have to hold it. I will never take my hand away”.
Bapa has responded to over 700,000 letters, built majestic temples all over the world, has over 900 sadhus and millions of followers. Yet if you were to ask any one of them, they will each have their own unique and personal divine experience of Bapa. Everything I have written here, they would feel exactly the same way.
Bapa has an incredible ability to love, yet not to own or possess. He listens and guides, but is not judgemental, and does not scold. He loves like an ocean.
He is everywhere, for everyone. So what is this entity that teaches us to transcend over our human weakness? That shapes us into better human beings? In return, he only asks for Dharmic discipline and Bhakti in the form of love. He truly is my Akshar.
I hope and pray at the feet of Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj, my greatest teacher and inspirer. You have shown and taught me why I have come to earth and that social and spiritual seva go hand in hand, that my true purpose in life is to serve. May you bless our family that we continue to serve you and the Sanstha until our last breath?
(Nitin Palan, born in Uganda, married with two children. Chartered Accountant by qualification, runs a successful business employing 300 people in UK and India. Personal interest includes interfaith work, setting up Diwali in Trafalgar Square etc.)
