On the morning of 15 November 1977, a press conference was held at Wembly Conference Hall. David Bester of the Wembley Observer asked Swamishri some questions.
Q: Why do sadhus wear saffron robes?
PSM: The sentiments of renunciation are represented by this colour. The saffron colour reminds one of God.
Q: What is the future like for this world?
PSM: It is in the hands of God. The future depends on our faith in God. There will always be ups and downs. But God showers compassion on humans and will continue to do so.
Q: Do you have an association with God?
PSM: By following his wishes and offering devotion, I have an association [with God].
Q: What do you know about the Bible?
PSM: I have not read the Bible, but I know its key teachings.
Q: Why does God remain hidden? Why can he not be seen?
PSM: He can be seen, but we do not believe it. If one becomes pure, God will be instantly visible. You can see a reflection only in a clean mirror.
Q: In your life, when did you first experience God?
PSM: Since I met my guru, Shastriji Maharaj, and developed atmabuddhi (deep attachment) with him.
On 12 January 1978, Swamishri engaged in a question-answer session with balaks in Nairobi, Kenya.
Q: You travel everywhere, but where is your real home?
PSM: God’s Akshardham is my real home.
Q: What is Akshardham like?
PSM: Spiritual discouses take place and continuous inner peace is experienced – that is the bliss of Akshardham.
Q: Why should one become nishkapat (confess one’s deficiencies) to the guru? What should one do if deficiencies still remain?
PSM: Confessing to the guru reflects our understanding of his greatness. If you have a bond with him, nothing is hidden from him. Then, one experiences real, actual joy. If deficiencies still remain, it is due to lapses in one’s observances.
On 13 January 1978, in the eveving, in Nairobi, Kenya, Swamishri was interviewed by reporters from the Daily Nation and The Standard.
Q: How is the spiritual succession (parampara) of gurus decided?
PSM: The guru has the divine power to know who will come after him.
Q: How will you give your powers to the next?
PSM: That is God’s work. God inspires and operates everything. So, it will happen as per God’s wish, just as it has happened in the past.
Q: Why did you decide to become a sadhu?
PSM: I was inspired by God.
Q: What is the biggest question facing the world?
PSM: People do not follow the path of dharma and do not offer devotion to God.
Q: Apart from obeying his commands, is there another way to become close to God?
PSM: How is it possible without obeying his wishes? Without good conduct it is not possible to get near to God.