In a tragic incident in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh (India) a gathering of over 200,000 devotees of a self-proclaimed godman ended in disaster. In their fervor to touch the dirt of his feet, chaos ensued, leading to a stampede. Security personnel and the godman’s aides exacerbated the situation by pushing the crowd, resulting in 121 deaths and over 400 injuries within 24 hours. This tragedy highlights the peril of blind faith in modern-day godmen and godwomen who claim to solve all problems and heal all diseases.
Historically, a saint was defined as a selfless individual dedicated to God and helping others. However, today’s self-styled spiritual leaders often flaunt lavish lifestyles, including expensive cars, private jets, and luxurious homes, far removed from the ascetic life of true saints. Despite their dubious pasts and questionable teachings, these godmen attract vast followings by exploiting people’s vulnerabilities.
Devotees are often charged hefty fees to attend these gatherings, driven by the belief that merely seeing these godmen can solve their problems. This blind faith is dangerous and misguided. Miracles attributed to these godmen are often coincidences, not divine interventions. Real solutions come from within—hard work, sincerity, and moral integrity.
In today’s digital age, wisdom and guidance are readily available from learned individuals online, often for free. There is no need to risk life and limb in mass gatherings where tragedies can occur. True saints are among us in everyday life—simple, honest, and dedicated individuals who quietly do their jobs and help others without seeking fame or fortune.
My humble thought endeavour to capture this sentiment.
“Our Ancient teachings say a Saint is someone,
Who has mastered control over his five senses.
Viz, Ego, Greed, Lust, Attachment and Anger.
Is pure, simple, steadfast, knowledgeable and free from any kind of Hunger.
In Ancient times, we had such persons,
We do not find such variety now.
Present day Saints and Preachers have modern outlook,
They possess materialistic things and hardly go by the book.
They seldom practice what they preach.
Ride in limousines, fly in jets, live in palaces much beyond a common person’s reach.
So where do I find a True Saint.
I look around and see the Saint in many common guys,
Sincere, Simple, Honest, Dedicated and with family ties.
Saints are present among us all,
You are a Saint, I am a Saint, Any one who follows rules of society is a saint.
God fearing men and women, who quietly carry on doing their job whether big or small.
Let us follow these Saints.”
Let us recognize and follow the true saints among us—the hardworking, sincere, and God-fearing individuals who embody the values of genuine spirituality. They are the real guides who lead us towards a better, more grounded life.
Guchi.
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