Ghanshyam Maharaj
In which village was Ghanshyam Maharaj born, and what were the names of his parents?
He was born in Chhapaiya. His father was Dharmadev and his mother was Bhaktimata.
Which two divine figures share a birthday on the day of Ram Navmi?
Bhagwan Ram and Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
How many total pots of water did Pragji Bhakta fetch to water the 300 mango trees?
He fetched 1200 pots in total (4 pots for every tree).
How long did Nilkanth Varni's journey across India last?
It lasted 7 years, 1 month, and 11 days.
On which Hindu calendar date is Holi celebrated?
It is celebrated on Falgun Sud Poonam.
Why did everyone in the village fondly call him "Ghanshyam"?
His skin was dark and beautiful like rain clouds.
What does the title Maryada Purushottam mean in reference to Bhagwan Ram?
It means the perfect person who always follows dharma.
When offered a wish, what "craft" did Pragji Bhakta ask to be taught?
He asked to be taught the craft of becoming a saint.
What happened to the roaring lion in Shripur when it encountered Nilkanth Varni?
After one divine gaze, the lion became silent and lay at his feet like a kitten.
What does the practice of burning an effigy of Putna symbolize?
It symbolizes the victory of divinity over demonic forces.
During the test set by his father, what three items were placed on the stool, and which one did he choose?
A gold coin, a book, and a sword were placed on the stool. He chose the book.
What specific action should devotees perform on Chaitra sud 9?
They should offer pujan to Ramchandra Bhagwan.
Describe the "dangerous seva" involving lime mortar and why others were afraid of it.
It involved mixing water and lime in a pit with bare feet. Others feared it because it caused blisters and the heat could cause blindness.
What were the three secret signs Bhagwandas’ mother told him to look for?
God has 16 sacred marks on his feet, He casts no shadow, and light will pass through His body.
In the story of Prahlad, why did Holika enter the fire and what was the result?
She had a boon that she would be unharmed by fire. However, she was reduced to ashes, while Prahlad was saved by his devotion.
In the story of the jackfruit tree, how did he respond to the thieves once they repented, and what did he give them?
He gave them a divine glance to free their hands. As a gesture of blessing, he gave each of them a jackfruit.
How did Bhagwan Ram’s reaction to his 14-year exile demonstrate his character?
He accepted the decision happily, without anger or complaint, to honor his father's word.
How did he justify his decision to go and call "Mount Girnar" despite the laughter of others?
He stated a disciple must obey every command of his Guru, and that following the agna (order) was his only duty.
Describe the physical "tapasya" performed at Pulhashram and its duration.
He stood on one leg with hands raised high for 2.5 months.
What is the spiritual significance of the colors Blue and Green/Yellow?
Blue represents calmness and respect. Green and Yellow represent healthy living and staying positive.
What are the core values taught through the story of the cyclone and the evil Kalidatt?
The values are faith over fear and the belief that evil destroys itself.
What do the lives of Hanumanji and Lakshmanji teach about service and family?
Lakshmanji represents selfless support and family love, while Hanumanji represents true devotion and selfless service.
What was the "divine formula" Pragji Bhakta lived by?
"Swami’s pleasure / Swami’s Raajipo = his oxygen."
Why did Nilkanth Varni refuse the position of Mahant?
He stated that if he wanted money or position, he would never have left home; his mission was the ultimate salvation of souls.
What historic revelation occurred during the Holi celebration in Samvat 1867?
Shriji Maharaj revealed Gunatitanand Swami as Aksharbrahma.