Sakal Media Group hosts Shri Guru Paduka Darshan at NSCI Dome in Worli

Thousands of devotees experienced a profound spiritual connection at the Shri Guru Paduka Darshan Ceremony, organised by the Sakal Media Group. The event embodied the sentiment of the Marathi proverb, "When saints visit our home, it is like Diwali and Dussehra." Over the two-day event (Saturday and Sunday), many devotees expressed their gratitude and fulfillment after paying homage to the sacred padukas (holy footprints) of 21 revered saints and gurus.

The ceremony, held at the NSCI Dome in Worli, of the Bhakti-Shakti Platform. The event was graced by Prahlad Vamanrao Pai of the Jeevan Vidya Mission and Abhijit Pawar, Managing Director of Sakal Media Grouwas inaugurated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the first day, marking the launchp and Chairman of AP Globale. Following the inauguration, CM Fadnavis paid heartfelt obeisance to the padukas of all the saints and gurus.

The grand event witnessed participation from several dignitaries, including Dr. Purushottam Rajimwale (founder of Vishva Foundation), Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar, Minister of State for Home Affairs Pankaj Bhoyar, Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, and Women & Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare, alongside prominent figures from politics, spirituality, arts, sports, and entertainment.

This was a one-of-a-kind event organised in Mumbai by a media house—a spiritual event at heart but hosted at a world-class location in the business hub of Mumbai. Despite the corporate surroundings, the event managed to draw around 30,000 devotees, making it a truly remarkable gathering

The Significance of the Bhakti-Shakti Platform

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasised the importance of Bhakti (devotion) and Shakti (power) in life. He stated, “Through the darshan of the 21 Guru padukas, we are receiving positive energy. These saints have guided society with their thoughts, values, and direction. By embracing these values, we can strive to lead a meaningful life. The ‘Bhakti-Shakti Platform’ is dedicated to highlighting the significance of devotion and power, fostering faith and unity, and ultimately contributing to the nation’s well-being.”

Abhijit Pawar elaborated on the vision behind the Bhakti-Shakti Platform, emphasising the need for governance and society to work together for sustainable development. He announced that in temples across the state, Wish Boxes (IcchaPeti), Service Boxes and/or Donation Boxes (DaanPeti) would be placed, and the Sakal Media Group would compile the wishes and concerns of devotees. These insights would then be shared with relevant authorities to drive societal development.

Pawar further stated, "Today, we are witnessing the union of Bhakti (devotion) and Shakti (power). Chief Minister Fadnavis represents Shakti, while Prahlad Pai embodies Bhakti. Devotion without power is ineffective, and power without devotion is destructive. By uniting governance, saints, and society, we can create a powerful force for societal transformation. This event marks the beginning of such a movement.”

Additionally, he urged women, as symbols of Bhakti and Shakti, to take the lead in promoting the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family).

India as a Global Spiritual Leader

Prahlad Vamanrao Pai, quoting Sadguru Shri Vamanrao Pai, expressed his belief that India is destined not just to be a superpower but also a Vishwaguru (World Teacher).

He emphasised that devotion (Bhakti) and strength (Shakti) are both crucial for a balanced life. He compared their harmony to a bird needing both wings to soar in the sky. He urged devotees not just to bow before the padukas but to imbibe the teachings of the saints and gurus, internalise their wisdom, and strive for a positive transformation in society.

The event saw the participation of padukas from renowned saints, including:

• Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj (Nevasa)
• Sant Muktabai (Muktainagar)
• Sant Namdev Maharaj (Ghuman)
• Sant Janabai (Gangakhed)
• Sant Eknath Maharaj (Paithan)
• Sant Tukaram Maharaj (Bhandara Dongar)
• Shri Swami Samarth (Akkalkot)
• Shri Sai Baba (Shirdi)
• Shri Gajanan Maharaj (Shegaon)
• Samarth Ramdas Swami (Sajjangad), and many more.

A special mandir (temple) was constructed within the Bhakti-Shakti venue for the placement of all the padukas. After their arrival and installation, the grand opening ceremony commenced.

The Teachings of Sri M – Overcoming Ego for Inner Peace

Spiritual guru and renowned speaker Sri M delivered an inspiring address, emphasising the importance of ego dissolution for true happiness. He remarked, “The biggest obstacle to peace is ego. Only through humility can one experience real joy. In ancient times, seekers from around the world traveled to India for wisdom. If we unite devotion and strength, India will once again become the world’s spiritual leader.”

He further stated, “Every individual carries a spark of divinity within. Therefore, we must continue our efforts without arrogance. True spirituality is not just about rituals but about imbibing the values and wisdom imparted by saints.”

Regarding the role of a guru, Sri M said, “A true guru never claims to be one. The right guru can be found in any form if one possesses the vision to recognise them.”

A Divine Conclusion to a Grand Spiritual Festival

The Shri Guru Paduka Darshan ceremony concluded on Sunday in an atmosphere filled with divine energy. With the resonating sounds of mridang and tal, continuous chanting of saints’ names, and joyful expressions on the faces of thousands of devotees, the event reached a blissful climax.

For two days, devotees from all walks of life immersed themselves in devotion, experiencing a Mahakumbh of faith. The event brought together warkaris, musicians, singers, scholars, and thousands of seekers, all united in their devotion to the saints.

Through this gathering, devotees not only sought blessings but also absorbed the teachings of the saints, leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and spiritual enlightenment.