Shripur and the Villagers
What animal had been frightening the villagers of Shripur?
A lion.
Who arrived in Shripur one evening?
Nilkanth Varni.
What animal approached Nilkanth Varni?
A lion.
Who witnessed the encounter between Nilkanth Varni and the lion?
The Mahant.
What important quality did Nilkanth Varni demonstrate when facing the lion?
Fearlessness
When did the lion usually come around the village?
At night.
What did Nilkanth Varni cross before reaching the ashram?
A bridge.
Was Nilkanth Varni frightened when the lion approached Him?
No, He remained peaceful.
What did the Mahant realize after witnessing the event?
Nilkanth Varni was no ordinary boy.
What was Nilkanth Varni doing when the lion approached Him?
Peacefully meditating.
How far away did villagers claim the lion's roar could be heard?
6–7 kilometres.
Where did Nilkanth Varni sit when He arrived?
On a tree outside the ashram.
What did the lion do when it first charged towards Nilkanth Varni?
It approached Him aggressively, expecting Him to be afraid.
What did the Mahant believe Nilkanth Varni was?
An avatar of Bhagwan.
What does this story teach us about Bhagwan's divine power?
Bhagwan's divine power can overcome even the greatest fears.
What did the Mahant tell the villagers to do if they heard the lion roar?
Stay together and not go looking for it.
Why did the Mahant invite Him inside?
It was late, wild animals were nearby, and he wanted to offer Him food and shelter.
What caused the lion to become calm?
Nilkanth Varni's divine and peaceful gaze.
Where did Nilkanth Varni go the next morning?
To the river to bathe.
What can we learn from Nilkanth Varni remaining peaceful instead of panicking?
We should remain calm, have faith in Bhagwan and not let fear control us.
Why did the villagers decide to play Jeopardy?
To distract themselves and stop being scared of the lion.
Why did Nilkanth Varni choose to remain outside instead of entering the ashram?
He preferred to stay away from crowds and peacefully meditate.
What did the lion do after Nilkanth Varni placed His hand on its head?
It licked His feet.
What happened when Nilkanth Varni signaled the lion to return to the jungle?
The lion obeyed and returned to the jungle.
What does the lion obeying Nilkanth Varni teach us about His divinity?
It shows His divine power and authority over all living beings.