80th anniversary of His Holiness Hindu Dharmsamrat Paramhans Swami Madhavanandaji

On September 11 2003, in commemoration of the 80th birthday of His Holiness Hindu Dharmsamrat Paramhans Swami Madhavanandaji (who is known as Holy Guruji), a great celebration took place in Jadan ashram in Rajasthan/India. It was held in the presence of Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranandaji and the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Sri Ashok Gehlot.

Of course Swamiji and all disciples had wished that Holy Guruji could himself be there for his Diamond Jubilee. Swamiji said that Holy Guruji would have been very happy to see and personally attend this wonderful function, and that he was indeed present with his blessings.

At exactly 10 a.m., the helicopter of the Chief Minister of Rajasthan landed in front of the OM Ashram. The Chief Minister visited the OM Ashram and the Talab (rainwater basin) and had tea with Swamiji. They then proceeded to the big tent, where more than 2,500 people were assembled. Many dignitaries, politicians, and other prominent personalities including Narayan Singh Manaklao, awaited them on the stage.

Children from the ashram school sang beautiful mantras while the Guru puja was performed before Holy Guruji's decorated seat and picture. Swamiji then spoke about Holy Guruji, pointing out his great merits. After Swamiji, the Chief Minister gave a speech in Hindi language. He had to leave at 11.30 a.m., but the function continued. Several more speeches followed and Swamiji addressed the audience once more. Afterwards, the visitors strolled through the ashram grounds, and some climbed the ashram mountain to enjoy the wonderful view. The whole ashram was filled with a festive atmosphere.

To mark this special occasion of Holy Guruji's 80th anniversary, Swamiji has published a photo-biography of Holy Guruji, which he presented to him upon his return to India in August. Swamiji told us that Holy Guruji enjoyed it very much, looking at each and every picture and telling the "story" of the photos. This book has been produced in Croatia and will soon be available – we thank Zagreb Ashram for this invaluable gift.

Photo-Biography of Holy Guruji