My Experiences with Swami Chidananda

How to describe an ocean of compassion, mercy, love and strength! Our beloved Swamiji Maharaj, our Sadgurudev, was all this and more. Every second of Swamiji’s life was flowing with Divine Consciousness. Every act was imbued with this feeling.

There are many episodes imprinted in my mind, and I want to share just a few.

We were doing eye surgeries in Uttarkashi. During this time Swamiji Maharaj came for his annual visit to Gangotri and stayed over in Uttarkashi. Early in the morning I heard a gentle knock on the door of the operating room. It was Swamiji Maharaj, asking if he could come in. Swamiji went straight to the end of the operating table and put his head on the feet of the poor old lady who was scheduled for the surgery. He thanked the Divine who had come in the form of this patient to give us an opportunity of serving the Divine. The patient, being blind due to total cataract in both eyes, was not aware of what was going on. Then Swamiji went to the head of the table and again put his head down and prayed for the patient!

The inauguration of the Swami Sivananda Centenary Charitable Hospital at Pattamadai took place on 25th December 1987, and Swamiji was the first patient to be seen. He was there at 7 o’clock, as the hospital door was to be opened at 8 a.m. He stood outside the hospital and insisted on making a show that he was first in the queue. If anybody came he would say, “Go behind me, because I am first.”  Then of course the hospital was opened and he came forward and went as the first person to the Registration Counter. He behaved just like any ordinary patient. He asked for the form, paid his one rupee as donation which he had kept carefully. The person at the counter filling the form asked, “What is your name?” He said, “Swami Chidananda” – “What is your father’s name?” “Swami Sivananda” replied Swamiji. “Place of residence?” “Divine Life Society, Rishikesh” – “Profession?” “Swami” and so on, he answered all the questions. After that he went to the outpatient department and sat on the bench. He refused to sit on a chair. He waited and kept on complaining like any other patient, “I am waiting for the doctor. Where is the doctor?” All the doctors were delayed, but I happened to be there and so I examined him. He sat across to me and talked just like any other patient. He said that he had suffered from backache for so many years and that he had been taking Ibrufine and other medication. After the consultation was over he wanted the OPD ticket to be kept carefully. It was the very first record and he wanted to be the very first person who showed himself in Gurudev’s Hospital. That was his bhava.

I had such a long association with Swamiji, but his real greatness I started to experience only in the last 2 or 3 years and that only by his grace. And I feel what I am experiencing is just a small part of it. He is much more than my experience!

My Experiences with Swami Chidananda

My Experiences with Swami Chidananda have always remained close to my heart because every moment spent in his divine presence carried a deep spiritual lesson. His calm smile, gentle words, and compassionate nature inspired countless devotees to walk on the path of truth and selfless service. Whenever I remember My Experiences with Swami Chidananda, I feel an inner peace that cannot easily be described. His teachings were simple, yet they had the power to transform ordinary lives into meaningful spiritual journeys. Through the grace shared on Devotional India, many seekers continue to discover the wisdom and purity reflected in his life.

One of My Experiences with Swami Chidananda was during a spiritual gathering where devotees from different places came together to listen to his inspiring message. He spoke softly about love, humility, and devotion, but every sentence touched the soul deeply. There was no sense of pride in him despite his immense knowledge and spiritual greatness. His presence alone created an atmosphere filled with serenity and devotion. Such divine memories shared on Devotional India continue to guide spiritual aspirants who seek inner transformation and peace.

Another unforgettable part of My Experiences with Swami Chidananda was witnessing his kindness toward everyone equally. Whether speaking to a child, a poor devotee, or a learned scholar, he treated all with the same affection and respect. His life reflected simplicity and purity in every action. Watching him serve others without expecting anything in return taught many people the true meaning of selfless living. Readers of Devotional India often connect deeply with these inspiring moments because they reveal how spiritual greatness is expressed through compassion and humility.

Among My Experiences with Swami Chidananda, one lesson stands out clearly. He always encouraged devotees to focus on inner purity rather than external recognition. According to him, real spirituality begins when the heart becomes free from anger, jealousy, and selfishness. His words inspired many to practice prayer, meditation, and service with sincerity. Whenever I reflect on My Experiences with Swami Chidananda, I realize that spiritual wisdom is not merely about knowledge but about living a life filled with kindness and truth. Such uplifting teachings continue to inspire readers through Devotional India and strengthen faith in divine values.

The beauty of My Experiences with Swami Chidananda also lies in the silent inspiration he offered through his actions. Even during difficult situations, he remained peaceful and patient. His unwavering faith in the Divine encouraged devotees to remain strong during life’s challenges. Every meeting with him felt like a sacred blessing that awakened devotion within the heart. Through articles and spiritual reflections shared on Devotional India, many devotees continue to remember his extraordinary life and teachings with gratitude.

Today, whenever I think about My Experiences with Swami Chidananda, I feel blessed to have witnessed such purity, wisdom, and compassion. His teachings continue to illuminate the path of countless seekers who desire spiritual growth and inner harmony. The memories of his divine guidance remain timeless and sacred, inspiring future generations through platforms like Devotional India. His message of love, service, and devotion will always continue to shine brightly in the hearts of devotees everywhere.

-Advice to Children