The Mahakumbh invites millions to experience a celestial confluence of rivers, spirituality and wisdom
The Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, commencing on January 13, 2025, promises a celestial confluence of rivers, minds, and spirituality. This ancient gathering is a tribute to India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, drawing millions of pilgrims and seekers worldwide. This year, the Mahakumbh assumes greater significance as it hosts a ‘Samagam’ (gathering) of seers and spiritual leaders to discuss Guru Nand Kishore’s book, Sahaj Smriti Yog (An Impactful Form of Yoga and Meditation) and his teachings on Sanatan Dharma, spirituality and meditation.
Sahaj Smriti Yog, founded by Guru Nand Kishore of the Darpan Foundation, transcends being a meditation technique; it is a journey to self-realisation. It guides individuals to transition from clear thinking to transcending thought, unveiling inner peace and clarity. Guruji emphasises that rediscovering one’s true self involves uncovering innate purity and harmony.
In Sahaj Smriti Yog, Guruji delves into the alignment of this practice with the eternal principles of Sanatan Dharma, which sees truth as timeless and unchanging. The Mahakumbh’s spiritual energy provides an ideal setting for this exploration. Guru Nand Kishore’s interpretation of Sanatan Dharma underscores timeless wisdom, essential for spiritual pursuits. He highlights Guru Parampara (the lineage of spiritual masters) as vital for spiritual evolution, stating, “Sanatan Dharma offers solutions before problems arise-a clarity achievable through meditation or Samadhi.” This wisdom, he explains, allowed ancient seers to provide fearless counsel to rulers.
Central to Sahaj Smriti Yog is the Guru’s role as a mirror reflecting the seeker’s inner self. Guru Nand Kishore asserts that true Gurus cannot self-proclaim; they are identified by seekers who trust their guidance.
He warns against false spiritual leaders, emphasising that genuine Gurus help dissolve ego, a prerequisite for enlightenment. Trust, he stresses, forms the foundation of the Guru-disciple relationship-a value modern society must urgently rediscover.
The philosophy of Sahaj Smriti Yog is rooted in simplicity and universality, making it accessible to all. Unlike practices advocating detachment, it encourages embracing life’s responsibilities fully. Transformation arises not by escaping reality but by engaging with it deeply and meaningfully. This approach fosters spiritual growth while remaining grounded in daily life.
The practice is built on three principles: understanding, experiencing, and feeling. Understanding cultivates self-awareness through intelligence and emotions. Experiencing transforms life’s events into opportunities for growth. Feeling connects practitioners with ultimate reality, transcending superficial existence to access profound essence.
What sets Sahaj Smriti Yog apart is its non-coercive nature. It doesn’t demand rigorous discipline or thought suppression but gently guides the mind to a state of deep peace and harmony. Practitioners effortlessly rediscover inner stillness and clarity.
Guru Nand Kishore’s vision extends to societal harmony. The Darpan Foundation and its ashram in Noorundumalai, Tamil Nadu, embody this philosophy. The ashram is a sanctuary for exploring Sahaj Smriti Yog principles, emphasising sustainability and holistic living. Guruji advocates conscious choices, such as supporting locally grown food, to nourish both individuals and the planet.
The Mahakumbh provides an unparalleled platform for spiritual exchange. The ‘Samagam’ on Sahaj Smriti Yog will explore trust, humility, and spiritual growth.
Guru Nand Kishore’s teachings offer a roadmap for resolving global conflicts by fostering trust and reducing ego-driven blindness. He believes peace begins with personal transformation, replacing arrogance with clarity and humility.
As humanity faces division and mistrust, Guruji’s Sahaj Smriti Yog serves as a beacon of hope, offering paths to personal enlightenment and collective harmony. The Mahakumbh amplifies this message, inviting individuals from all walks of life on a transformative journey.
Through the lens of Sahaj Smriti Yog, the Mahakumbh celebrates eternal spirituality, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary relevance. It calls humanity to embrace simplicity, sustainability, and spiritual clarity. As millions gather at Prayagraj to witness the confluence of rivers, Sahaj Smriti Yog reminds us that true peace begins within. Guruji’s words, “Clarity gives you power,” encapsulate the transformative potential of this timeless practice. Let Mahakumbh 2025 be a milestone in redefining spirituality for a harmonious world.
(The writer is a senior journalist. Views expressed are personal)
