Prasang 38

“One Who Serves is Mahant”

Mul Aksharmurti Gunatitanand Swami served as the Mahant of Junāgadh Mandir for forty years. However, he was never affected or taken by false pride for his position. He viewed this responsibility as sevā to Shriji Maharaj, which was evident in his humble conduct.

Once, the Mahant of Tarnetar visited Junāgadh Mandir to meet Gunatitanand Swami. Upon arrival, he saw Gunatitanand Swami sweeping the mandir courtyard. Curious, the Mahant asked, “Where can I find the Mahant of this mandir?”

With humility, Gunatitanand Swami replied, “Go inside, you will find him there.” A little while later, after washing his hands and feet, Gunatitanand Swami took his seat. The Tarnetar Mahant was astonished to see him and asked in surprise, “You are the Mahant? Weren’t you just sweeping the courtyard?”

Laughing, Gunatitanand Swami replied, “In our tradition, the one who serves is the true Mahant.”

For forty years, Gunatitanand Swami held the Mahant position, which in itself was remarkable. Then he took down his jholi from the nail on the wall and showed it to the mahant. Swami had no item made from metal, even his tilakyu was made of wood. The garments he wore were made of coarse cloth. The mahant of Tarnetar was surprised to see such a detached mahant. Then Swami explained to him, “We have renounced women and wealth and therefore, our mahantship has been sustained.”

On hearing this, the mahant also felt that this is absolutely true. Among them the disciples kill the guru and occupy the throne, tempted by money and material things.

The Gunatit way is unique—it values sevā over status or material possessions. Our Gurus have upheld this legacy, and we must follow in their footsteps. By participating in mandir sevās, either through āgnā or according to our ability, we, too, can become part of this divine heritage. Isn’t that what makes us true heirs of the Gunatit tradition?