Amid the devotion and asceticism on display at the Magh Mela, there's a silent sage igniting a beacon of education without uttering a word. For 42 years, this man has taken a vow of silence, living solely on tea while guiding students preparing for civil services. His unique approach and lifestyle are mystifying.
People know him as Payahari Mauni Maharaj or Tea Baba. Despite not having spoken for over four decades, he communicates by writing, gesturing, and smiling. Visitors to his pandal initially feel astonished, then deeply moved.
A Vow of Silence Taken 42 Years Ago
The real name of Mauni Maharaj is Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari. He is affiliated with Shiva Shakti Bajrang Dham in the Chilbila area of Pratapgarh. Hailing from a family of educators, he holds a BSc in Biology. His father was a principal. After his father’s death, he was offered a compassionate appointment in the education department, but his heart leaned towards spirituality. As he distanced himself from worldly life, he embraced the path of renunciation and adopted an unbroken vow of silence.
Source: aajtak
Mauni Maharaj’s routine is extraordinary. He neither eats food nor drinks water; instead, he consumes about 10 cups of tea daily. Hence, devotees affectionately refer to him as Tea Baba.
Visitors to his pandal also receive tea as a form of prasad. Some view it with devotional respect, while others are curious to learn about his intriguing life.
Source: aajtak
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Mauni Maharaj offers free coaching and guidance to students preparing for civil services and other competitive exams.
His teaching methods are unique; he doesn’t use words but relies on digital mediums. He prepares notes on WhatsApp for students, writes answers, and explains strategies comprehensively.
Competing students claim that every year, 2-3 candidates succeed in civil services under his guidance. Several students coming to meet him during the fair find inspiration in his discipline and dedication.
A Passion for Speed
This spiritual saint has another side—an affinity for speeding on bikes. Devotees note that on highways, his bike can reach speeds of 100 km/h. He has covered the distance from Pratapgarh to Prayagraj in about 45 minutes to reach the fairground. His bikers’ demeanor is a hot topic among the youth.
Source: aajtak
A Scholar and Messenger
Mauni Maharaj is the author of a book named 'Dharma Karma Marm Sagar'. It chronicles rituals and religious rules from birth till death, including daily conduct and life practices.
He believes that silence conserves energy and that energy should be utilized for public welfare. His message is to do more while speaking less.
His pandal at the fair is a magnet for crowds—some drawn by his silence, others by his renunciation, and many by his educational commitment.
When asked something, he writes answers on paper. Sometimes, he merely joins hands with a smile. Yet those who meet him say, ‘Baba speaks volumes without uttering a single word.’
