Narrator:
After a long 3 months, he set foot in Gurudev's Shantikunja || by Shyama Khyapa YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkeDu53ILGQ
Narrator:
This is a transcript of the dialogue in the audio, translated into English and formatted for clarity.
Interviewer:
My salutations, Gurudev.
Gurudev:
Salutations to you, son.
Interviewer:
It has been several months since you last visited the temple, even if only for a short while today. How does it feel to be back? We are so happy that words cannot express it. Look at everyone's faces-there is so much joy among those here today. Please, tell us how you feel.
Gurudev:
The temple looks very clean, tidy, and systematic now. It wasn't always like this. In the past, I didn't think much about these things; whoever came, I would just sit with them and talk. But I see Kalu-babu (Kalu-da) is maintaining things very well now. It's good to see.
Interviewer:
Yes, Kalu-da and his team are doing something wonderful that I really appreciate. They are doing their best to stop any kind of disorder or "filth." If they notice something wrong, they don't let it slide.
Gurudev:
That is how it was when we first established the temple-it was built on a foundation of discipline. But over time, many people started coming in-all sorts of people. I didn't see it because I stayed in my own space, unaware of who was coming or going. The crowds grew, and some opportunistic people started using the temple for their own interests, turning it into a business to make money. Now, things have been cleaned up and restored. It looks very well-organized and beautiful.
Interviewer:
I witnessed something today that I liked very much. Someone came and wanted to offer `bhog' (a ritual food offering). They tried to give money to Kalu-da, but he immediately folded his hands and said, "Please do not give money. Go to the market and buy the groceries yourself. If needed, I will send someone with you to help, but do not give a single rupee here." This is exactly what you have always taught and written.
Gurudev:
Yes, since the day this temple was founded, that instruction has been written: "Do not give a single rupee to this temple." I know the nature of money and its influence on character; that is why I had that written from the very first day. We say, what is the need for money? Just bring some rice or lentils for the Mother (the Goddess). That will provide her meal, and whatever is left over will be shared among the people as `prasad.' That is perfectly fine.
Interviewer:
Gurudev, we hope that once the winter passes, we will see you here more often.
Gurudev:
I hope so too. There is no problem with coming, but I must follow the doctor's orders. The doctor saved my life. People reached out and contributed toward my recovery; he worked so hard for me. I can never forget his contribution or the kindness of the people.
Gurudev:
This was the first time I faced such a situation. I've had health issues before-bleeding from the nose or mouth for a few days-but this time it was much more serious. I don't know what would have happened. It's a familiar place, though. I left from this temple to go to the hospital, and now I have returned here from the hospital.
Interviewer:
Thank you, Gurudev. Pranam.