Voyage Within With Vimalajee

This document is the "Voyage Within With Vimalajee," a book by Pratap J. Tolia, published by Vardhaman Bharati International Foundation. It chronicles the life and spiritual journey of Vimalajee (also known as Vimala Tai or Vimala Thakar) through the eyes of the author, who considers her a deeply influential figure.

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Vimalajee: A Visionary Ascetic and Spiritual Synthesizer

Vimalajee is presented as an extraordinary individual from childhood, characterized by an innate vision and a quest for truth and the mysteries of life. She is described as a joyous and unassuming "SANYASINI" (ascetic) from within, who lived a life of deep internal realization while remaining connected to the world.

Key Influences and Associations:

Vimalajee's life was shaped by profound connections with numerous influential figures of her time. These include:

• Spiritual and Social Leaders: Saints like Sant Tukadoji Maharaj, Gujarat scholars like Dr. Pandit Sukhlalji and Ravishankar Maharaj, Sufi Saint Acharya Gurdial Mallikji, Banaras Scholars like Pandit Gopinath Kaviraj, Great Indian Musician Pandit Omkarnath Thakur, Jain Saints from Gujarat and Rajasthan, and Sarvodaya leaders like Acharya Vinoba Bhave, Jai Prakash Narain, and Dada Dharmadhikari.
• Philosophical Thinker: Her association with J. Krishnamurti is highlighted as a transformative experience, leading her to "scale more heights of sublime realization of herself and diving deeper and deeper in the realm of real Silence."
• Influence of Srimad Rajchandraji: Vimalajee held the highest respect for Srimad Rajchandraji, whom she considered a unique seer and Mahatma Gandhi's spiritual guide. She thoroughly studied his teachings and imbibed his spirit, even delivering discourses on him that were published as "Apramada Yoga (The Yoga of Silence)."

Life Journey and Evolution:

• Birth and Early Life: Born on Ramanavami (Lord Rama's birthday), Vimalajee's birth was considered symbolic of the coming "Synthetic Age of Spirituality & Science." Her maternal grandfather, Sri Yadavrayji Bhagdikar, a wealthy lawyer and devout soul, significantly influenced her early life, immersing her in an atmosphere of devotion and spirituality.
• Parental Influence: Her parents, Bagaram Chimanjee Thakar (Bapu Saheb) and Chandrikaji, were described as revolutionary, patriotic, and deeply religious individuals. Her father was an advocate, scholar, and freedom fighter, while her mother was a practical and compassionate woman who also participated in Satyagraha.
• Education: Vimalajee showed little interest in traditional education, seeking spiritual knowledge from a young age. Despite financial difficulties, she pursued higher education, excelling in various fields like oratory, music, and even military training. Her educational journey included periods of seclusion in the Himalayas, demonstrating remarkable self-will and courage.
• Bhoodan Movement: Vimalajee dedicated ten years of her life to Acharya Vinoba Bhave's Bhoodan Movement, traveling across India and inspiring many. This period was physically demanding but deeply fulfilling. She experienced a significant accident during this time, from which she recovered with the help of Pandit Omkarnath Thakur's music and later J. Krishnamurti's compassionate healing.
• Transformation and Silence: After her acquaintance with J. Krishnamurti, Vimalajee's spiritual journey deepened, focusing on the realm of "Silence Within." Her speeches and writings are said to spring from this inner silence, inspiring seekers worldwide.
• Residency: She spent significant periods in Dalhousie (Himachal Pradesh) and Mount Abu (Rajasthan), continuing her work of guiding seekers.
• Refusal of Guru-dom: Vimalajee consciously avoided founding any ashram or acting as a guru in the conventional sense, preferring to be a guiding friend, sister, and loving "Deedi" to all. She actively steered away from exploiting disciples.
• Foreign Travels: Vimalajee traveled extensively abroad, enlightening seekers in Europe, the UK, USA, Australia, and Sri Lanka. Her foreign travels were described as adventurous and challenging but deeply impactful.
• Later Years and Departure: In her later years, Vimalajee continued her active spiritual life at Mount Abu. She maintained a simple lifestyle, gradually reducing her diet and ceasing medication. Her departure from the mortal world was peaceful, marked by a desire for no rituals, reflecting her deep inner freedom.

Synthesis of Spirituality and Science:

A central theme of Vimalajee's life and teachings is the synthesis of spirituality and science. She is presented as a precursor to a new age that would unify these two domains. Her life exemplified how a realized soul could remain engaged with the world and actively guide others towards social revolution, spiritual transformation, and educational change.

The Power of Silence:

Vimalajee's profound insights and joy-disbursing speeches are rooted in her "SILENCE WITHIN." This inner silence is described as her special realm and the source of her unique wisdom. Her words are considered a testament to her integrated experience, reflecting a natural, simple, and balanced expression of divine life.

The Author's Personal Connection:

The author, Prof. Pratap Kumar J. Tolia, shares his deep personal connection with Vimalajee, recounting numerous encounters, camps, and shared experiences, starting from their association during Vinobaji's Bhoodan tours. He highlights her profound impact on his life and his family, particularly her encouragement and validation of his creative and spiritual work. He also details his collaborative efforts with her in publishing works of Srimad Rajchandraji.

Legacy and Impact:

Vimalajee's life is presented as an example of how one can live a spiritually realized life while actively engaging with and serving humanity. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, her humility, her unwavering commitment to truth, and her emphasis on inner silence are key aspects of her enduring legacy. The book aims to inspire readers to embark on their own "voyage within" guided by her life and teachings.