Aatmdrashta Mataji Bengali

This document is an excerpt from the book "Aatmdrashta Mataji" by Pratap J Tolia, published by Jina Bharati. It focuses on the life and teachings of a revered Jain spiritual figure known as "Mataji." Here's a comprehensive summary:

Introduction to the Setting and Philosophy:

The book begins by setting a scene of serene natural beauty, describing a peaceful night with moonlight, stars, and mountains. This tranquility is presented as a gateway to a different world, one free from worldly vices like desire, ego, anger, attachment, greed, and illusion. To enter this spiritual realm, one must overcome their senses and strive for self-control and self-discovery, rather than amplifying latent desires.

The Hampi Ashram and its Significance:

The text highlights the Hampi region of Karnataka, India, as a sacred land once part of ancient Jain kingdoms like Ratnakoota and Hemkoota, and later the prosperous Vijayanagar empire. It is described as a place touched by the dust of countless holy feet.

Nestled within the natural caves of Hampi, the Shri Rajachandra Ashram is introduced as a new Jain Tirthasthan (pilgrimage site). This ashram is situated far from the disruptions of city life and pollution, offering an undisturbed environment. The ashram features lush green fields, mountain ranges, and the flowing Tungabhadra river. It includes beautiful cave temples, meditation halls, and residential quarters. The very atmosphere of the ashram is said to dispel worldly afflictions.

The ashram is open to all, transcending societal divisions of high and low. It is considered sanctified by the touch of Lord Munisuvrata Swami, the 20th Tirthankara, and by the grace of Shri Shriman Rajachandraji, the guru of Mahatma Gandhi. The land is further blessed by the confluence of yoga, knowledge, and devotion from great souls like Yogindra Yug Pradhan Shrisahajanandji. The text emphasizes the equality of all souls, regardless of wealth, status, or even species.

The Revered "Mataji" (Jagannatha):

The central figure of the book is "Mataji," whose outward appearance is ordinary, but who possesses immense inner knowledge and devotion. She is described as a guide on the path of yoga, knowledge, and devotion, and is universally addressed and recognized as "Mataji." She embodies maternal affection and oceanic compassion.

Originally named Dhanadevi, Mataji hailed from the village of Sabharai in Kutch, Gujarat. Her soul is said to reside in Mahavideh Kshetra (a sacred Jain realm).

The Legacy of Shri Sahajanandaji:

The founder of the ashram, Mahayogi Shri Sahajanandaji, bequeathed the stewardship of the ashram to Mataji in 1970 before his physical departure through yoga. He bestowed upon her the title of "Jagannatha" (Mother of the Universe). The ashram's vibrancy is attributed to this "Jagannatha," whose radiant, knowledge-filled face and aura illuminate the place.

Mataji is portrayed as having transcended worldly attachments and reached a high spiritual plane. She is described as the embodiment of unwavering compassion and maternal love, not only to humans but also to the helpless, suffering, and mute animal creatures. She serves all guests, visitors, saints, sadhus, pilgrims, devotees, children, and animals with profound affection.

Mataji's Virtues and Miracles:

Mataji's humility and grace in serving everyone, irrespective of their background, is astounding. She offers shelter to women like a vast banyan tree. She also helps humans, cows, dogs, and calves achieve a purposeful life and a dignified departure. The author expresses an inability to adequately describe her profound wisdom, compassion, and extraordinary life.

The author recounts personal experiences of being in Mataji's presence, finding it a divine experience that dispels worldly thoughts and brings inner peace. However, there's also a sense of melancholy upon leaving this heavenly abode and returning to the mundane world, a place where the affection and sense of belonging found with Mataji are absent.

Early Life and Miraculous Incidents:

The text then delves into Mataji's childhood, highlighting her spiritual inclinations from a young age due to past life merits. A significant incident is recounted from her childhood when she, as Dhanabai, faced a powerful local ruler, "Rao Raja," who was traveling in his vehicle. When her father moved aside to let the vehicle pass, the young girl remained in the middle of the road.

Despite the driver's warning that the Rao was inside, the girl defiantly questioned who was truly in charge – her head or the Rao's. The Rao, impressed and perhaps intimidated by her spiritual insight, summoned her. In private, he questioned her. Dhanabai, with remarkable maturity and courage, directly asked about the ailment in his head, imploring him to speak from his heart.

She perceived the Rao's inner turmoil and his intentions to harm innocent women. She boldly confronted him about his villainous thoughts, questioning his shame and offering him guidance towards righteousness. The Rao, recognizing the divine presence in the child, prostrated before her, confessed his wrongdoings, and sought forgiveness. He requested her to visit his palace with her father to impart spiritual teachings, asking her to keep this encounter a secret. The young girl agreed.

Later, she indeed preached dharma to him, confirming his reform. Her father, witnessing these events, realized her extraordinary power but remained silent. The text mentions many such miraculous incidents and experiences from her childhood, some leading people to admire her, while others viewed her with suspicion, labeling her a sorceress. However, her profound inner wisdom was beyond their comprehension.

Spiritual Journey and Departure:

The text mentions that after her virtuous childhood and household life, she was inspired by the heavenly departure of the knowledgeable Sadhvi Kun Sarala in Pavapur in 2010. Driven by the inspiration and devotion of her nephew, Shri Bhadramuni (later Yogindra Yug Pradhan Sahajanandaji), Mataji dedicated herself to rigorous spiritual practice.

Despite achieving high spiritual attainments and past life merits, she remained perpetually humble, modest, and devoid of ego. She always kept in mind the teachings of Shri Shrimad Rajachandraji: "Where there is complete purity, there is complete Siddhi." Following this principle, Mataji's pure outer and inner life led to the attainment of ultimate Siddhi – the soul, perceived as separate from the body, a state of unbroken, knowledge-filled existence.

She integrated this insight into her daily life, guiding others towards this path. She constantly emphasized, "I am a soul separate from the body." Through her compassion, she liberated countless beings – humans, animals, birds, insects, and even ants – and led them to spiritual liberation.

The Shri Rajachandra Ashram in Hampi (Karnataka) flourished under her guidance. She embodied the knowledge, wisdom, and compassion of "Jagannatha." At the age of 65, she departed from her physical body for Mahavideh Kshetra through samadhi (conscious departure), leaving many in profound grief. She passed away on Saturday, April 4, 1992, at 9:15 PM. The text concludes with the mantra "Om Shanti."