DEVOTEE:
Gurudev, I offer my humble respects to you. Now, here in the presence of Mother Ban-Tara...
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
Yes, speak on.
DEVOTEE:
A fellow disciple of yours has traveled here from East Midnapore. If you could share some words about him and his path, it would be very helpful for all of us.
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
Yes, he has come from Tamluk in East Midnapore. He visits quite often and has taken initiation from me. I must say, his devotion to the Guru is truly profound. Whenever he visits, he performs 'Guru-Puja' with such deep sincerity, offering every bit of respect and honor that a Guru is traditionally accorded.
DEVOTEE:
That is true. He first completes his worship of Mother Ban-Tara and performs the sacred recitations before he even thinks of attending to your personal needs and service.
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
Precisely; that is the very definition of 'Guru-Bhakti' (devotion to the Guru). Simply repeating the word 'Guru' is not enough. True devotion is found in one's actions and heart. One worships at the feet of the Guru, recognizing the spiritual light within rather than focusing on the physical form. He offers everything to the Guru, just as one would offer to the Divine. This is the traditional way, though unfortunately, it is becoming rare. Many today take initiation but quickly lose that sense of profound respect. It is heartening to see someone uphold these values so faithfully.
DEVOTEE:
Gurudev, we are noticing something quite extraordinary lately. So many seekers are arriving here from all corners. Today, a sadhu from East Midnapore came and recited the Bhagavad Gita for us—it was a very moving experience. Why is it that so many are drawn here, often without any prior notice or invitation?
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
It is because this place has become spiritually charged through constant worship and the Mother's grace. When a space is kept pure and dedicated to prayer, it naturally acts as a beacon for those seeking spiritual solace. We receive many such visitors. We even had a sadhu come all the way from the Kumbh Mela; he had been a victim of theft and came here seeking refuge after hearing about this ashram. We welcome all who come with a sincere heart. As long as the Mother is worshiped here, people will continue to find their way.
DEVOTEE:
It truly feels like an invisible force is drawing them. They arrive, pay their respects to the Mother, and join us in our daily prayers. We have visitors coming from as far as Cooch Behar, Assam, and Tripura, and they all leave with a sense of peace.
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
It is a blessing. This ashram is becoming a true sanctuary. Even today, a group from Cooch Behar wanted to meet, but as it is Amavasya and I am observing a period of silence and intense prayer, I have asked them to return tomorrow. The spiritual energy here is growing, and it is my hope that it continues to serve as a place of refuge for all seekers.
DEVOTEE:
Thank you for your guidance, Gurudev. I will take my leave for today. My deepest respects to you.
GURU SHYAMA KHYAPA:
Blessings to you, my son.