New Delhi – A historic spiritual event took place in the heart of the nation’s capital as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar unveiled the rare and sacred relics of the original Somnath Jyotirlinga for the first time in Delhi. These relics, discovered after 1,000 years, were presented in a grand ceremony witnessed by thousands of devotees, creating a divine connection between India’s present generation and its ancient spiritual heritage.
The grand Mahasatsang ‘Anandam’ featured devotional music, spiritual discourse, and the historic unveiling of these sacred stones. Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including the Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta, Speaker of the Delhi Assembly, Vijendra Gupta, West Delhi MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat, and MLA Tilakram Gupta.
Highlighting the global impact of the Art of Living, CM Rekha Gupta stated, “Through Gurudev, millions are witnessing how the Art of Living is realizing the vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One World Family) across the globe. If we aspire to live a meaningful social life, the knowledge of the Art of Living is essential.”
Recalling Gurudev’s contribution to environmental conservation, she said, “Gurudev, I still remember how thousands of Art of Living volunteers carried out the massive Yamuna River cleanup, removing thousands of truckloads of garbage.”
“Now, we will take this mission forward, develop a beautiful riverfront, and organize a grand Maha Aarti in your presence. I will personally invite you,” she added.
In his address, Gurudev lauded the CM’s commitment to the Yamuna cleanup initiative, recalling that the Art of Living’s ‘Meri Dilli, Meri Yamuna’ campaign was launched back in 2010.
Unveiling of the Sacred Relics
The relics of the original Somnath Jyotirlinga, discovered after 1,000 years, were revealed in a momentous ceremony. Unlike ordinary lingams, this relic was originally situated two feet above the ground. A 2007 geological analysis found extraordinary magnetic properties in these stones, unlike any known material.
Gurudev stated, “Shiva is present in every particle of existence. He resides within us, but sometimes manifests in certain sacred places. We will celebrate this divine presence across the nation, from Rameshwaram to Somnath.”
These relics have a deep history of faith and resilience. In 1026 AD, Mahmud of Ghazni destroyed the Somnath temple and its Jyotirlinga. Distressed by the destruction, a group of Agnihotri Brahmins secretly transported fragments of the Jyotirlinga to Tamil Nadu, crafting smaller Shiva lingams for worship. Over generations, the sacred relics were preserved within the lineage of Agnihotri Brahmin Pandit Sitaram Shastri. Eventually, the revered Kanchi Shankaracharya advised that the relics be taken to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bengaluru for their rightful preservation.
Divine Performances and Ceremonies
During the Satsang, children from the Art of Living’s ‘Intuition Process’ demonstrated extraordinary skills. One child, blindfolded, accurately read details from visiting cards, while another solved a Rubik’s Cube with a blindfold. Children from Sri Sri Sanskar Kendra recited mesmerizing Ramayana verses.
Flute maestro Mohan Krishna, a disciple of Pt. Kailash Sharma, enchanted the audience with a Raag Mishra rendition.
Prior to this event, Gurudev inaugurated the ‘World Peace Center’ alongside revered Jain Muni Sri Lokesh Muni, former President Ram Nath Kovind, and Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini.
The Essence of Sanatan Dharma
Addressing the gathering, Gurudev shared deep insights into Sanatan Dharma’s essence—non-violence, patience, and inner strength. “Where even air cannot reach, the mind can. Nature is a realm of infinite possibilities. There are countless paths to understanding the Divine, which is why patience is necessary. Tapasya (austerity) leads to liberation and serves as a medium for global welfare.”
Jain Muni Sri Lokesh Muni lauded Gurudev’s contributions, stating, “Gurudev has spread the message of peace not only in India but across the world. His efforts in education, healthcare, livelihood, and farmer welfare are unparalleled. His love and service transcend words.”
Former President Ram Nath Kovind and Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini honored Gurudev for his service to humanity.
In a significant announcement, Lokesh Muni declared the formation of a special committee under the leadership of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Murari Bapu to unite global leaders in promoting non-violence and peace.
Upcoming Events
On March 3 at 5 PM, a grand Rudra Puja will be held at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, near India Gate. This Vedic ritual, believed to bring prosperity, health, and peace, will be attended by over 10,000 devotees experiencing the divine energy of the original Somnath Lingam relics. A collective Shankhnaad (sacred conch-blowing) will be the highlight of the event, invoking world peace.
Additionally, these sacred relics will be available for public darshan on March 4 and 5 at Chinmaya Mission, Lodhi Road, offering devotees a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness this spiritual marvel.
