Bhaktaratno

As per the grand resolve of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, the construction of the Sārangpur Mandir was in full swing. The swamis and devotees worked tirelessly, day and night, dedicating themselves completely to this sacred endeavor. Somā Bhagat, a man of immense stature, was among them, lifting and placing massive Porbandar stones with such might that all who witnessed it were awestruck. He served with the steadfast conviction, “If I give my life in this sevā, I will attain a seat in Akshardham before Maharaj.” One incident, in particular, showcased Somā Bhagat’s unwavering patience and unshakable faith in the Guru’s word.

A massive pillar stone, weighing approximately 150 maunds (about 3,000 kg), was being hoisted into place at the center of the temple. It was secured by seven thick ropes and was being lifted inch by inch to the chants of “Swaminarayan, Swaminarayan, Swaminarayan.” Suddenly, one rope snapped. Before anyone could react, another broke… then another, and another - until six ropes had snapped, leaving the entire weight of the stone hanging by just a single remaining rope! Everyone feared the worst. If the stone plummeted, it would shatter the carefully placed stones below, leading to great damage.

Despite the danger, no one let go of the rope. Some devotees rushed to call Shastriji Maharaj, who arrived swiftly. He raised one hand and firmly said, “The stone will not fall.” Someone hesitantly suggested, “Should we lower it slowly?” But Shastriji Maharaj’s response stunned everyone: “Why lower it? Lift it higher!” Turning toward Somā Bhagat, Shastriji Maharaj said, “Somā Bhagat! Climb onto the stone and re-tie the broken ropes.”

A wave of shock spread through the crowd. Climb onto a stone hanging by a single rope? If Somā Bhagat, a man of immense size, were to step on it, the stone could crash down with him! But Somā Bhagat saw something beyond this world - he saw Akshardham in his Guru’s āgnā. There was only one unwavering truth for him: “The Guru’s word must never go unfulfilled.” Without hesitation, this 35-year-old giant sprinted forward and climbed onto the stone. As soon as his full weight pressed down, the stone shook violently, causing a jerk that sent shockwaves through the twenty men holding the rope below. The entire crowd stood frozen in fear, anticipating a disaster. But Somā Bhagat remained undeterred. He began retying the broken ropes with lightning speed - one, two, three… Even amidst this perilous task, his gaze kept returning to Shastriji Maharaj. There stood his Guru - calm, unwavering, with his blessing hand raised in absolute assurance. This gave Somā Bhagat unshakable certainty: “Even if the entire universe were to shatter, this stone will not fall.” Once the ropes were fully secured, Somā Bhagat climbed down, rushed to Shastriji Maharaj, and bowed at his feet. Shastriji Maharaj placed his divine hand upon Somā Bhagat’s head, locking eyes with him, radiating infinite grace and satisfaction. The crowd murmured in awe: “Blessed is Somā Bhagat! Blessed is his unwavering devotion to his Guru!”

We are the heirs of such resolute devotees who risked everything for their guru’s word. By keeping their examples before us, we too can seize opportunities at any cost and in all situations to please our guru.