Pramukh Swami Maharaj - Early Years As A Sadhu

Early Years As A Sadhu

As a young sadhu, Sadhu Narayanswarupdas studied Sanskrit and the Hindu scriptures at Bhadaran and Khambhat, earning the title “Shastri” upon mastering both scripture and philosophy. In addition to his studies, Shastri Narayanswarupdas routinely engaged in a multitude of service activities, including cleaning the temple compounds, cooking for sadhus and devotees, and taking part in many other duties. Shastri Narayanswarupdas also played a significant role throughout the construction of the Atladra mandir in the early 1940s. During the construction, he sustained chemical burns and blisters on his body after mixing the lime to be used in construction, yet he persisted unflinchingly in performing his service despite the injuries. Serving concurrently as Shastriji Maharaj’s personal secretary, Shastri Narayanswarupdas also gained a comprehensive understanding of BAPS’ broader affairs and activities. In 1946,when Shastri Narayanswarupdas was 25, Shastriji Maharaj appointed him the head, or ‘’kothari‘’, of the large BAPS mandir in Sarangpur. As head of the mandir, Shastri Narayanswarupdas oversaw a major expansion of the temple facilities despite considerable financial constraints. His capable leadership and unassuming personality in the midst of significant hardships earned him the respect of his fellow sadhus and devotees, and presaged the significant responsibility that his guru would soon entrust to him.