23 December 2001, Sunday, Charlotte, NC
This Vedic hymn expressing eternal gratitude and indebtedness to the Guru, H.D.H. Pramukh Swami Maharaj respectfully known as Swamishree, resonated in the Charlotte’s temple on Sunday, December 23. The occasion was the 81st birthday celebrations of Swamishree. Two separate events were organized. The first event began at 9 AM to coincide with the live celebrations being held in Sankari, India. The highlights of this unique event held in the morning were bhajans/kirtans exalting the glory and divinity of Swamishree, several incidents (Prasang) narrated by Haribhaktas illustrated Swamishree’s unique skill in communicating with young and old alike. Another highlight was a competition quizzing the participants on their Satsang knowledge. Finally emotion, humility, and gratitude were on display in abundance as this event concluded with Haribhaktas garlanding Swamishree.
People had gathered to celebrate the evening’s event which was planned, designed, and implemented by Charlotte Mandir’s BAL MANDAL. It was their way to express their sincere thanks and heartfelt gratitude to Swamishree. The program highlights included kirtans, dance, multimedia presentation, and drama. The children’s innocence and passion were on display that enthused and excited the participants. The program concluded with a live telecast of Swamishree’s blessings. As always, the day’s feasts exceeded the participants’ expectations.
Finally, one cannot come away from these events without reflecting on Swamishree. Words fail to describe the ocean of goodness, of purity and humility, a summary of spirituality that is Swamishree. One can wonder, what is left with a person who has given his all? Nothing, nothing but himself, and that himself is everything. In Swamishree’s presence, doubts dissolve, confusions clear, hurts heal and the mind finds peace. Swamishree leads an austere life of lifetime celibacy, with an inhuman disregard for personal wealth or comfort. Representing the essence of Hinduism, his compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity have touched many world religious and national leaders. But most important is his quiet, undisturbed love for God that rises beyond all borders of nation, race and religion. Even after creating an international spiritual empire of hundreds of mandirs, thousands of Satsang centers and over a million followers, one always finds Swamishree engrossed in prayer, for his life is the living proof that prayers work and divine love succeeds.