Authentic success lies in spiritual evolution, not material wealth: Chidanand Saraswati

Prayagraj, Jan 16 (NationPress) As the Maha Kumbh Mela progressed into its fourth day in Prayagraj, the esteemed spiritual figure and head of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Chidanand Saraswati, shared a profound insight regarding the significance of spirituality in achieving true success and fostering unity in life.

In an interview with IANS, Chidanand Saraswati highlighted that genuine success is not derived from material wealth, but from spiritual advancement and emotional ties. He emphasized that unity forms the core of Sanatan Dharma.

Saraswati expressed awe at the massive turnout of devotees at the Maha Kumbh Mela, likening the crowd to the populations of prominent cities such as Tokyo, Delhi, and Shanghai. He noted that over 50 million individuals had gathered at the Sangam within just two days, positioning Prayagraj as a global focal point during this sacred event. He passionately conveyed that the Kumbh serves as a unifying force, stating, "In Maha Kumbh, there is no caste discrimination, no division. Everyone’s hearts are interconnected. When individuals assemble at the banks of the Sangam, they relinquish their differences, and the message is unmistakable—unity is the essence of Sanatan Dharma."

Saraswati portrayed the Maha Kumbh Mela as an emblem of the timeless spirit of Sanatan, which is inclusive, eternal, and nurturing.

“Sanatan does not create divisions, it does not instill fear, it protects. It embraces everyone—whether they are present or not," he stated.

The spiritual leader also encouraged the youth to adopt spirituality as a pathway to peace and fulfillment. He commended the growing number of educated young individuals participating in the Kumbh, recognizing their increasing realization that mere material success cannot achieve lasting happiness.

“The youth of India are starting to comprehend that true peace originates from within, from spirituality. Today’s world may be dominated by technology, yet here, in silence, individuals are discovering their authentic connections,” Saraswati remarked.

The message was evident—while technology and material ambitions hold significance, they must not eclipse the deeper pursuit of inner peace and connection with the divine.

"The Maha Kumbh Mela transcends merely taking a dip in the Sangam. It represents self-exploration. It is a journey of self-realization, reconnecting with our roots, culture, and spirituality," he stressed.

Saraswati also seized the moment to underscore the global interest in the Maha Kumbh, noting that countries like Pakistan, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been among the most frequent searchers of the term “Mahakumbh” online. He credited this to the Kumbh’s universal charm, a venue where divisions are transcended, and humanity congregates in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

In a powerful analogy, Saraswati described the Kumbh Mela as a space for discovery, not disorientation. “The Maha Kumbh is about finding oneself, not about losing oneself. It’s about rediscovering that which has been forgotten and recognizing the immense value in what remains,” he articulated.

He also acknowledged the hurdles of contemporary life, where distractions like smartphones and social media often shift focus away from the soul's deeper necessities. "Individuals are engaged in 'sadhna' of their phones, but here at the Kumbh, they are engaged in 'sadhna' of silence," he humorously noted.

The spiritual leader further reflected on the merger of science and spirituality, commending India's scientific accomplishments while advocating for the youth to harmonize their intellectual endeavors with a connection to their spiritual lineage.

He quoted S. Somanath, who expressed the necessity for both scientific inquiry and spiritual depth.

"For outer space, science is essential, but for inner space, spirituality is vital," Saraswati reiterated.

He concluded with a plea for unity, reinforcing that the Maha Kumbh Mela is not merely a religious gathering but a movement embodying the spirit of India—its culture, values, and enduring traditions.

"This is the Kumbh, where arrogance dissipates, where materialism is set aside, and where we unite in a spirit of harmony, peace, and spiritual revival."

As the Maha Kumbh Mela continues, Saraswati’s message stands as a poignant reminder of the profound significance of spirituality in an increasingly materialistic world. The Maha Kumbh represents more than just a physical gathering; it is an exploration into the depths of oneself—a journey of self-discovery, unity, and connection to the divine.