In the grand congregation of saints and devotees at Prayagraj's Mahakumbh, a unique sight unfolds at a tent by the Sangam. Here, the tent of Payaahari Mauni Baba, hailing from Mahoba, is filled more with aspiring students than sages. These students benefit from Baba's free coaching for civil service exams. Remarkably, Baba has embraced silence for 41 years and sustains himself solely on tea, yet his vitality and commitment stand as a beacon of inspiration for the learners.
Payaahari Mauni Baba's devotion and his method of educating students have become focal points at the Mahakumbh. Visitors are amazed at how this ascetic, who subsists on tea alone, can exude such energy and impact. Baba’s existence is a splendid illustration of true sacrifice and service.
A Unique Vow of Silence and Austerity
Forty-one years ago, Payaahari Mauni Baba took a vow of silence and renounced food and water, relying solely on milk tea, which he consumes about ten times daily. Originally named Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, he is connected with Shivashakti Bajrang Dham in Chhilbila, Pratapgarh. Baba believes that silence helps conserve energy, which he dedicates to the welfare of the world.
Source: aajtak
Free Coaching in an Extraordinary Way
For students preparing for civil services and state PCS exams, Baba offers free coaching without uttering a word. He creates notes and sends them via WhatsApp, answering queries by writing or providing detailed notes. Every year, around 2-3 students mentored by him succeed in their exams. One student mentioned that Baba responds to their queries through WhatsApp and annotates explanations in notebooks.
Source: aajtak
Rejecting Comfort for Spirituality
Hailing from a family of educators, Baba's father was a principal. Upon his father’s passing, he was offered a compassionate appointment in the education department, but by then, his yearning for divine devotion and service had solidified. He chose the monastic path, upholding that the true purpose of religion and spirituality is service and welfare.
Avid Tea Drinker and Fast Rider
A tea enthusiast, Baba offers tea to his devotees as a prasad. Additionally, he has a penchant for riding his bullet bike at high speeds. Covering the distance from Prayagraj to Pratapgarh in just 45 minutes, Baba's bike rarely slows below 100 kmph.
Source: aajtak
Book Illuminating the Essence of Life and Religion
Baba has penned a text titled "Dharm Karm Marm Sagar," which encompasses scriptural rules for every aspect of life from birth to death, and slumber to awakening. Expected to be published in February, Baba describes this book as a distillation of his years of penance and experience.
An Inspiration to Students
Baba's life story serves as a motivation for those who dare to chase their dreams despite challenges. Teaching solely through writing and digital means, his dedication is evident. Baba's silence, energy, and commitment to his students impart a profound message to everyone at the Mahakumbh—change in the world is achievable through genuine service and dedication.
Mark Your Calendars for Mahakumbh
Held every 12 years, the Kumbh Mela is a grand event, but this Mahakumbh, which occurs once every 144 years, is extraordinary. It is anticipated that millions of devotees from around the globe will partake in this spiritual gathering. The Mahakumbh commences on January 13th and concludes on February 26th, inviting pilgrims to immerse in the sacred waters of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
