Dynamics of a Socio-Economic Revolution Gobind Sadan

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This book delves into the historical events surrounding the Indian Revolution, brought to light by baba Virsa Singh, a contemporary spiritual leader who emerged from a small village in Punjab. Baba Virsa Singh rose to prominence as an internationally recognized figure, embodying the principles of sharing and compassion. He championed a movement that redefined the essence of religion, emphasizing the cultivation of inner faith without compromising on its authenticity. Gobind Sadan. headquartered in Delhi and with centers in various countries, both large and small, pioneered innovative methods for promoting tourism, fostering mutual love and cooperation, and addressing the challenges facing humanity in the modern era. This book serves as a valuable resource for individuals and communities alike, offering a vivid and insightful account of the past. It presents a wealth of examples that inspire contemporary individuals to strive for a better world.

The original study, the first of its kind in the post-independence period, serves as a call to revisit our roots, beginning at the grassroots level of moral and cultural values. It advocates for the construction of a foundation and edifice that will lead to a more just, less corrupt, happier, and more peaceful society, both domestically and globally.

Dr. Surjit Kaur Jolly began her career as a Lecturer of History and later became the Principal of Shyama Prasad Mukherji College, University of Delhi, Delhi her area of specialization includes History of Punjab, Sikh History and modern Indian history. Her doctoral thesis focuses on Sikh Revivalist Movements in Punjab, gender issues, ecology, human rights, spiritualism, comparative religions and Gandhi. An efficient administrator and scholar of repute, Dr. Jolly is actively associated with a number of Professional organizations and institutions in various capacities. For her outstanding contribution in the field of education and society, She has received a number of awards such as Eminent Personality (1997); Award for Contribution to Commonwealth Youth Programme; Ambassador for Peace Award; Best Administrator's Award; Bharat Jyoti Award; Award for Communal Harmony, Outstanding Achievements Award; Lifetime Achievement Award by 2004 Tertiary Education and knowledge Summit, Sahitya Akademi (Delhi Government) and The Lions Club honored her with Prashasti Patra.

She has been Senior Fellow of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) and Pradhanmantri Museum and Library (formerly NMML), Teenmurti, New Delhi. She has presented a number of research papers on various contemporary themes at National and international forums.

It is ironical that while on the one hand great strides are being made by mankind in the areas of science and technology, on the other, people have lost their peace of mind and become increasingly more restless and violent. There is complete mistrust among nations-so much so that the very survival of human life is in danger and the fear of World War III looms large. Artificial barriers have been created by humans and their minds are permeated by feelings of hatred and animosity towards fellow humans. Besides, religious intolerance and fanaticism have resulted in killings of lakhs of innocent people the world over. It is in this context that the teachings of the great spiritual master of the modern era, Baba Virsa Singhji (affectionately called Maharajji), have assumed an added significance.

The main purpose of conducting this research work-Socio-Economic Dynamics of Gobind Sadan-is to make a comprehensive presentation of the spiritual ideology and teachings of Maharajji-the founder of Gobind Sadan-in their various dimensions. Founded in 1968 by Maharajji, Gobind Sadan is situated on the outskirts of South Delhi on the hilly area of the Aravali ranges-around six kms from Mehrauli. Its location is far away from the hustle and bustle of the city-life and the atmosphere in the ashram is conducive to solitary prayer and meditation.

When Gobind Sadan was established, the land was barren and treeless, full of boulders and thorny shrubs. There was no source of water, no electricity, and no connectivity to roads and transportation. Establishing a self-sustained ashram on such a land therefore was a huge challenge. It was a long and hard process which Maharajji

used as a learning process wherein followers were taught to lead a disciplined life and render selfless service to society.

Initially, at Gobind Sadan, a hall called Darbar Sahib for Sri Guru Granth Sahib's 'Prakash' and a havan room were constructed. Sacred fire continues to burn at this place day and night and offerings of ghee and samagri are made to the haven on a big scale in keeping with the ancient Indian traditions.

The striking feature of this ashram is that here all religious belief systems, without any prejudice-Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, etc. are honoured and their rituals observed and practised. The respect and devotion with which various gods, goddesses and prophets are honoured here is indeed exemplary! It is a living testimony to religious tolerance, respect, coexistence and love which are so badly needed in the present-day turbulent times. Without a doubt, such ashrams are critical to life today and they stand as a beacon for the peaceful existence of the world. In fact, Gobind Sadan's message of universal love and brotherhood is truly unique that creates a spirit of love and camaraderie in the minds of all and brings people of different denominations together.

Maharajji-the very embodiment of Divine Love and magnanimity-said: "See God's love within everybody and see that love within yourself also. And don't see it only in people; see God's love in trees, in flowers, and in the entire cosmos". Love, he said, is the basis for building a good human being who can become an instrument for bringing about social change and reform. Good ideas can be developed only when one develops them within one's self. By eradicating negative traits like anger, fear, hatred, malice, jealousy, etc. one can create place for love and compassion. By developing the qualities of love, faith and willingness to serve, society can be healed.

Baba Virsa Singh, affectionately known as Maharaj Ji, established Gobind Sadan in 1968. Situated within the Aravali ranges near Mehrauli, this ashram has gained international acclaim for its serene environment and the practices it upholds. Gobind Sadan's unique way of life stands out for its inclusive nature, welcoming individuals from all faiths and beliefs without discrimination. Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism find solace and peace within its picturesque surroundings.

While ashrams like Gobind Sadan may have a relatively recent origin, historically speaking, they hold significant value in addressing contemporary global challenges. Distrust, disunity, animosity, and hatred are prevalent in modern society, often stemming from fundamentalist beliefs that prioritize faith and spirituality. Throughout history, Bharat has been a beacon of understanding, harmony, and coexistence. Gobind Sadan embodies this legacy by inspiring and encouraging a line of thought and lifestyle that has evolved over centuries. It encapsulates the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of this ancient land.

The study sheds slight on the various aspects of life such as working for economic self-reliance and working hard for upliftment of society and its working population. It highlights the social renaissance where Baba Virsa Singh not only openly spoke against existing social problems but dealt with them in his unique way of combining, Naam (spiritual path) with Kirat (honest hard work). His unique model of peace as exemplified by the resolution of terrorism in Mizoram can be applied and followed in any situation of terror and terrorism. Ever the champion of the weak and the voiceless, Baba Virsa Singh spoke for the welfare of children at the UNICEF conference. On the economic front, he tamed barren wasteland and introduced floriculture, dairy farming and cash crop agriculture to create a self-sustaining community.

During her tenure as a Senior Academic Fellow at the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), Dr. S.K. Jolly embarked on an intriguing study. This significant contribution highlights the historicity, importance, and functioning of ashrams, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of Baba Virsa Singh ji. The chapter structure and the issues addressed are both substantial and well-conceived. I anticipate that this monograph will be of interest not only to those closely associated with the ashram and its revered founder but also to individuals who value the principles of harmony, peace, and spiritual coexistence.

Religion has played a significant role in redressing the sufferings of people in the history of civilizations and cultures. The formation of a healthy social order deserves to be the primary concern of all religions, the world over. However, with the passage of time, organized religion is increasingly being used as a tool for dividing people. Conflict, discord, hatred, mutual distrust, and fundamentalism--all contribute to an escalation in social, ethnic, regional and communal problems, which in turn have led to terrorism, extremism and violence. The outbreak of such violence in any form negatively impacts the atmosphere of peace, amity and coexistence. It harms progressive and developmental activities that a society needs for the well-being of all its citizens. Conflicts within national and across international boundaries carry deep-rooted grudges that result in religious wars such as the crusades, jihads, terrorism, guerilla warfare to the extent of people being willing to undertake suicidal missions for their mistaken religious causes.

The role and relevance of world bodies such as the UN has become increasingly questionable. It has been under tremendous pressure by major nations to enforce its will on other member nations violating its basic norms. Some voluntary organizations and associations do come forward from time to time to discuss the socially and globally relevant subjects of interfaith and peaceful coexistence. We have attended several international interfaith conferences to learn more about the practical aspects of religion. Such activities are held within closed doors at a university or the climate-controlled environs of a five-star hotel. Though lengthy discussions and debates are held in such conferences yet nothing concrete emerges by way of an appealing model or a viable alternative.

When we peep into our own history, we encounter statements reflecting lofty ideals such as vasudevaya kutumbkam (the world is one family); sabhe sanjhiwal sadaain tu kisse na disse bahra jio (we are all equal partners in this God-created universe); He showers His grace on all alike and no one is to be treated as an outsider. Our country's history since prehistoric times has been driven by spirituality and that continues till today. People of India had possessed advanced knowledge of science and technology, which is now beingacknowledged by the world. This scientific advancement was the result of a happy blend of spirituality and the spirit and drive for acquiring in-depth knowledge. Today, the world is passing through a very critical period when ethics, morals and social values are losing ground in favour of materialism. Samskaras seem to have taken a back seat and it is time that these are revived again through proper grooming and education of youngsters. Dr. Radhakrishnan once said that a "new generation requires to be trained in the ideas of sacredness and supremacy of spiritual life, the sense of the brotherhood of mankind and the love of peace, progress and change are the real blood of a civilized community". It is in this context that the role played by Gobind Sadan in contemporary times has assumed significance. It is a body of thought, belief system and lifestyle which has been working to inculcate strong values in the society. This, in turn, has brought about a substantial improvement in socio-economic fields of life.

The inspiration for this study, Socio-Economic Dynamics of Gobind Sadan, draws from the symbol that represents this mission. A beturbaned man, working a pair of oxen, and together they till the field. The soil here taking on a greater persona beyond that of mere dirt and minerals but reaching far beyond into the minds and attitudes of people, which require tilling and soil preparation for the absorptionand propagation of ideas much the same way a field needs tilling to make it ready for sowing. This study chronicles this revolution of mind and thought-a revolution that is quiet, steady and monumental; one that has affected the life and attitudes of lakhs.