'Shiva Resides in Every Particle of Existence': Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Unveils Sacred Somnath Jyotirlingam Relics

New Delhi: Global spiritual leader, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar unveiled the sacred and rare relics of the Original Somnath Jyotirlingam, found after 1000 years in a groundbreaking ceremony held in the heart of New Delhi. The event, attended by lakhs of devotees, marked a rare moment in India's spiritual history, reconnecting the nation to its ancient roots. The relics, which belonged to the original Somnath Jyotirlingam, were unveiled during the Maha Satsang titled Anandam, an evening of soulful music, devotion, and precious wisdom. The event was also graced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi Vidhan Sabha Speaker Vijendra Gupta.

At the sacred event, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar emphasised the importance of the occasion, stating, "Shiva resides in every particle of existence. We will celebrate this divine occurrence across the country. From Rameshwaram to Somnath, this journey will be a tribute to that divine presence."

The sacred stones, found to have unusual magnetic properties, were identified in 2007 to possess a stronger magnetic field at the center, unlike any known materials. These relics are said to have once been part of the original Somnath Temple, a revered site of worship destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni. 

Gurudev stated that the story of these relics is one of triumph of faith and total devotion. In 1026 CE, Mahmud of Ghazni attacked and destroyed the Somnath Temple along with the mystical Jyotirlingam inside. Following the heartbroken conquer leading to the devastation, a few Agnihotri Brahmins secretly carried the pieces of the Jyotirlingam with them to Tamil Nadu, moulded them into small Shivalingas, and continued to worship them through the generations.

These sacred relics eventually came into the care of the family of Agnihotri Brahmin Pandit Sitaram Shastri. "You should yourself take them to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bengaluru. He will help you," Shastriji was instructed by the current Kanchi Shankaracharya.

Notably, the unveiling ceremony took place during the Maha Satsang titled Anandam, an evening filled with soulful music, devotion, and spiritual wisdom. The event saw the gathering of a large number of people, who were moved by the deep spiritual atmosphere and the revelation of these holy relics. The sacred stones, moulded into a Lingam form, were placed for the public to witness, marking a memorable event in India's spiritual journey.

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Global Impact Of The Art Of Living

In her address, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta praised Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's leadership and The Art of Living's global impact. At a special event, Chief Minister Gupta acknowledged how The Art of Living has successfully brought the concept of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (One World Family) to life worldwide, inspiring millions. She asserted that Gurudev's efforts have been instrumental in spreading India's cultural influence globally and hailed the importance of incorporating The Art of Living's wisdom into daily life, emphasising its importance for a meaningful and socially responsible existence.

At the event, the chief minister stressed on the global impact of The Art of Living's efforts under Gurudev's leadership. "Through you, millions of people are witnessing how The Art of Living is bringing the essence of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (One World Family) to life across the world," the Chief Minister lauded Gurudev's contribution in India's cultural outreach across the world. 

Acknowledging Gurudev's contributions to environmental conservation, education, healthcare, and livelihood during the event, Rekha Gupta recalled Gurudev's leadership in environmental conservation, stating, "I still remember, Gurudev, how thousands of Art of Living volunteers, under your guidance, took up the massive task of cleaning the Yamuna ghats, removing thousands of truckloads of waste."

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Call For Peace And Harmony

In a separate event, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar inaugurated the World Peace Centre alongside Revered Jain Monk Lokesh Muni and other dignitaries. Addressing the gathering, Gurudev emphasised the need for patience, non-violence, and inner strength. "Even where the wind cannot reach, the mind can. Nature is a realm of infinite possibilities."

Gurudev also stressed on the importance of restoring peace and Ahimsa (non-violence) in conflict-affected regions. A special committee, led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Morari Bapu, will bring together leaders from various walks of life to promote peace and harmony.

Gurudev will also preside over the Rudra Puja at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium on March 3, expected to draw over 10,000 people. The Vedic ceremony is known to bestow prosperity, wealth, and good health on the seekers. The event, which is open to all, will also provide an opportunity for people to experience the mystical energy of the holy relics of the original Somnath Lingam.

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‘Soldiers Are Pillar Of Non-Violence’: Gurudev

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also addressed a gathering of soldiers, explaining the importance of non-violence and its role in maintaining peace and harmony. He stated, "When a nation is strengthened by a weapon, then it can be discussed in that nation." Acknowledging the crucial role soldiers play in upholding non-violence, Gurudev said, "You are the pillar of non-violence. You are doing non-violence yourself. Stopping violence is also non-violence."

"Silence is the main message of Jain Dharma. Meditation is the main message of Jain Dharma," he stressed that silence is essential for spiritual growth and self-realisation, adding that where speech does not reach, there is silence. He also quoted Lord Krishna, saying, "The greatest yogis are those who are the most knowledgeable, the most generous."

Gurudev's address was a call to action, urging individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.