श्रीगुरु-उपासना
Veneration of Shri Guru

When I contemplated “Shri Guru’s Gaze,” three experiences came to mind.

Many years ago, in the Anugraha building of Shree Muktananda Ashram, Gurumayi was in the courtyard and walking toward the entrance near where I was standing outside. As she approached the entrance, our eyes met briefly. In that instant, time seemed to stop, and everything felt spacious and still. This experience left a deep impression on me.

Then a few years ago, I went through a challenging period. One night, I had a dream in which Gurumayi was standing directly in front of me, meeting my gaze with such compassion and love. Through that gaze, I experienced a profound sense of relief and reassurance. Looking back now, I feel deeply grateful that, through Gurumayi’s compassion, I was able to recognize what needed to be seen within myself and to see myself more clearly.

Recently, during meditation, I experienced Gurumayi’s gaze arising within my own witnessing awareness. It felt as though her gaze and my own awareness were present together in the stillness.

I am grateful for this opportunity to reflect on the profound grace of “Shri Guru’s gaze.”

Melbourne, Australia

I had a beautiful dream of Gurumayi. We were together, and she looked directly into my eyes. In that moment, it felt as though time stood still. It was a feeling of total love, protection, and wisdom. I am grateful to my beloved Gurumayi for always being there.

New York, United States

My favorite part of Shri Guru Gita is “May the divine glance of the Guru always dwell upon me…” Contemplating this verse in light of “Shri Guru’s gaze,” I think about the times in the past when I was blessed to have Gurumayi’s darshan and our eyes met. Although many years have passed, I still remember those sacred moments and the power of her gaze. In my mind’s eye, I see her still looking at me, and I know she is watching over me.

Georgia, United States

When I read today’s “Veneration of Shri Guru”—“Shri Guru’s gaze”—I remembered verse 59 of Shri Guru Gita and its meaning: “May the divine glance of the Guru ever dwell upon me . . .” My heart’s wish is to always dwell in the divine gaze of the Guru, so that whatever I am doing in daily life, I am always connected to Gurumayi.

Mumbai, India

When I first set foot on the grounds of Gurudev Siddha Peeth many years ago, Gurumayi was giving darshan, and her gaze struck me. It was so full of love and compassion; it touched me to the very depths of my soul. Never before had anyone seen or perceived me as Shri Gurumayi had.

As I contemplated “Shri Guru’s gaze” today, that first darshan came alive again. It is wonderful to contemplate Shri Guru, and, in doing so, to strengthen the bonds with my beloved Guru.

Konolfingen, Switzerland

As I understand it, shri guru drishti is so much more than viewing or seeing, so much more than a mental capacity. It is more than a perspective, an outlook, or a point of view. To me, shri guru drishti is the creation and unfolding of the universe; it is the eternal flame of light merging into love.

If I could catch a glimpse of the world as I imagine it is seen through Gurumayi’s eyes, I would see the immense beauty of all of God’s creation.

Hørsholm, Denmark

My experience of receiving “Shri Guru’s Gaze” is like being bathed in the Guru’s benevolent and purifying shakti. All my fears, anxieties, doubts, and petty thoughts are cleansed in this sacred exchange.

Whether this happens in person, in a dream, in a live video stream, or when looking at a photo of the Guru, this profoundly transformative experience leaves an indelible imprint in my consciousness—one I can return to again and again. My inner state returns to that of sweet love and bliss, and as I keep the company of my remembrance of “Shri Guru’s Gaze,” I go about my day.

I hope those I interact with during the day will also benefit from my experience of remembering my Guru’s gaze!

Sydney, Australia

Growing up, I often heard the word drishti used by family members when speaking about taking care of someone. Over time, though, I came to understand it differently—not only as taking care of someone but as a form of divine watchfulness.

That’s why shri guru drishti instills in me a constant sense that my Guru is supporting me in everything I do, say, or even think. This awareness prevents me from engaging in actions that I feel aren’t right or beneficial for me. In this way, shri guru drishti keeps me grounded and on the right path.

Thane, India