Report: Event in Nagaur, Rajasthan

Friday, 18 December 2009 15:32

Written by Suresh Khandelwal

Historic Merta City in the Nagaur district of the state of Rajasthan was the site of the third event in Maharaji’s recent tour in India. Founded in the fourteenth century, Merta is regarded by many as a holy city, the birthplace of Meera Bai, whose devotional songs are still sung today. Though it is a small city (population 40,000 in 2001), the literacy rate is higher than the national average. Yet over 16% of the people living there are under the age of six.

The event with Maharaji was held on open grounds opposite Government College. People from Merta City and nearby villages were surprised and excited that Maharaji was coming to their small city. By 10:00 AM, the area had begun to fill rapidly, men wearing Rajasthani turbans and ladies in colorful chunri saris. Besides local people, others came from adjoining districts: Ajmer, Bhilwara, Pali, Jodhpur, Ganga Nagar, Barmer, Hanumangarh and others. Soon over 3,500 had assembled on the grounds that had been prepared by volunteers in the previous three days.

In his address, Maharaji encouraged people to consider their priorities in life. “What is it that becomes grateful for peace? Mind?” Prem Rawat asked. “No. Heart. The heart becomes satisfied. Without Knowledge of the Self, this life is like food without salt. Everything feels empty.”

He added that, although there are a lot of responsibilities in life, "the life force that resides within you is also one of your responsibilities. Accept it in your life. Don't reject it. Accept it!"

Many people expressed their appreciation for this time with Maharaji. Dr. Govind Natani, an orthopedist who had come from Beawar, said that he felt Maharaji had explained to him the mystery of life and inner peace in very simple words.

Om Prakash Chauhan, a teacher from Rajasthan, said, “Maharaji helps me to understand how to spend this precious gift of life, and my heart feels so fortunate to see him after such a long time.”

Vallabhdas from Jodhpur said, “I wish each and every person in India could hear this message.”

Shanti Lal, from Merta City, said, “I have no words to express how beautiful this event was for me. I was filled with such joy. I hope there were more events with Maharaji in Merta City.”