Swami Avdheshanand Giri is a prominent figure in the realm of Hindu spirituality, revered as a guru, saint, writer, and philosopher. As the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhara, the largest and oldest Akhara for Naga Sadhus in India, he holds a position of great influence and responsibility, guiding countless spiritual seekers on their paths.
Immersing himself in meditation and penance in the Himalayas, Swami Avdheshanand Giri emerged in 1985 and found his Guru in the former Shankaracharya Swami Satyamitranand Giri Ji Maharaj. This pivotal moment marked his formal entry into Juna Akhara, where he was bestowed the name Avdheshanand Giri. His ascension to the role of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar in 1998 at the Kumbh Mela of Haridwar solidified his leadership within the Akhara.
Beyond his spiritual leadership, Swami Avdheshanand Giri is actively engaged in social initiatives, exemplifying his commitment to service and compassion. Through the Samanavya Seva Trust, he oversees projects such as an old age home, a physiotherapy center, and the Shiv Ganga Project, which focuses on education and water conservation in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
Swami Avdheshanand Giri’s influence extends beyond the borders of India, with his participation in international conferences and forums on climate change, interfaith dialogue, and conflict resolution. He is a board member of the World Council of Religious Leaders and has addressed prestigious gatherings such as the UNO Responsible Leadership Summit and the Interfaith G8 Summit.
Recognized for his contributions to harmony and spiritual awakening, Swami Avdheshanand Giri has received accolades including the SIES National Eminence Award and the Hindu Renaissance Award. His writings, encompassing works like “Vision of Self,” “You Only Live Once: 108 Nuggets of Wisdom,” and “Towards Perfection” reflect his profound understanding of Vedant and ancient Indian philosophy.
In a distinguished conversation with The Interview World during the World Book Fair, Swami Avdheshanand Giri illuminates the profound impact of books in shaping and enriching lives, while also offering his perspectives on the Ram Mandir. Presented here are the pivotal highlights from his enlightening interview.
Q: What significance do books hold in shaping and enriching our lives?
A: Books, often regarded as life forms, contain an intricate blend of knowledge, inspiration, and truth. They serve as indispensable companions, offering not merely entertainment, but profound insights into the essence of life itself. Within the pages of books lies the wisdom that illuminates the path of individuals, providing them with much-needed direction amidst the complexities of existence.
Through the exploration of various literary works, individuals embark on a journey of self-discovery, gaining a deeper understanding of their identity and purpose within the vast expanse of the universe. Immersion in books becomes akin to a spiritual quest, a pursuit of salvation and enlightenment. As readers delve into the realms of literature, they unravel the profound truths that shape human existence, guiding them towards a state of inner peace and fulfillment. Thus, books stand as timeless beacons of wisdom, leading humanity towards the ultimate quest for nirvana.
Q: What distinguishes religious books from ordinary books?
A: In my view, the essence of knowledge is intricately woven into the fabric of language and numerical systems. Language serves as the vessel through which cultures convey their beliefs, traditions, and accumulated wisdom. From the structure of sentences to the symbolism of words, each linguistic element carries a piece of cultural heritage. Similarly, numbers provide a universal language, offering insights into the patterns and logic underlying the natural world.
Whether it’s the intricate symbolism of religious texts or the practical wisdom found in manuals and guides, every form of knowledge finds its home in written records. These texts serve as repositories of human experience, documenting the collective wisdom of generations past. Thus, whether one seeks spiritual enlightenment or practical guidance, the pursuit of truth invariably leads to the pages of books, where insights await discovery and contemplation.
Q: What key message do you aim to convey to your readers through your latest book titled ‘Towards Perfection’?
A: For individuals seeking to live a life guided by their values, the book ‘Towards Perfection’ offers a practical roadmap. It suggests embracing techniques like refraining from constantly evaluating situations, fostering a reflective mindset, integrating daily meditation into one’s routine, and embracing principles of mindful living.
Recognizing the ever-changing nature of the mind, the book emphasizes the importance of harmonizing different facets of life for spiritual growth and understanding universal human desires. Its teachings guide leading a joyful life, cultivating detachment to deepen one’s connection with the Divine.
The lessons also explore breaking free from cyclical thinking patterns, overcoming feelings of animosity, recognizing the link between compassion and happiness, addressing flawed thought processes and their association with sadness, and overcoming feelings of inadequacy. Additionally, the text stresses the importance of practicing detachment in everyday life, training the mind to concentrate during meditation, and disciplining wandering thoughts to achieve mindfulness.
Q: What are your thoughts on the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya?
A: The Ram Mandir stands as a sacred monument representing the spiritual essence of our nation. Within its grand architecture and serene ambiance, the divine presence of Lord Ram resonates, instilling a sense of reverence and devotion among all who visit. Situated at the nexus of our collective welfare, this temple holds profound significance not only for our nation but also for the broader universe, symbolizing unity and spiritual harmony.
It is envisioned to transcend its physical structure, evolving into an inclusive ecosystem that empowers individuals from all walks of life. Through spiritual enlightenment and moral guidance, the Ram Mandir aims to bridge societal gaps and foster a sense of unity among diverse communities. Moreover, it is poised to become a catalyst for cultural preservation, social cohesion, and economic prosperity, enriching the fabric of our society and serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
