श्रीगुरु-उपासना
Veneration of Shri Guru
Audio recording by Ami Bansal
In earlier times, shravana—the act of listening—was the only means through which disciples could receive their Guru’s teachings, knowledge, and guidance. Today, we are blessed to receive these priceless teachings through live streams, published talks, recordings, and so much more. So, when I heard the phrase “shri guru shravana,” I thought of the numerous opportunities I have to listen to my Guru.
And along with that thought came a deeper question: What do I truly need to do for my listening to be effective?
I began asking myself, do I prepare myself well before I sit to listen to my Guru? While listening, am I fully present? Afterward, do I take a quiet moment to let the teaching from the Guru settle within me? Do I make time to write down what I have received? Do I sit with those teachings, reflect on them, and make an honest effort to bring them into my life?
Considering this, I realized that sometimes I do these things, but more often than not, I fall short. Yet, my heart’s longing to grow keeps nudging me to make a more conscious effort.
Thane, India
For me, “listening to Shri Guru” means listening to the silence within me.
In this silence, there are no words, yet I hear Shri Guru conveying the highest Truth.
Konolfingen, Switzerland
I have been fortunate to have had moments of direct interaction with both Baba and Gurumayi. Listening has been a first step for me. When I would contemplate the words of Shri Guru, they became sutras, resonating throughout my being, taking me to profound experiences, and leading me in new directions in my life.
Florida, United States
“Listening to Shri Guru” has been one of the most powerful practices on my Siddha Yoga journey. The Guru’s words carry such conviction and truth that they inspire me to trust, persevere, and continue walking on the path.
Over the years, through the Guru’s grace, I feel that my capacity to listen has deepened, enabling me to absorb Gurumayi’s teachings more fully and to contemplate them more deeply. As a result, I find myself becoming happier and increasingly grateful for the life I am living.
I have learned that when I truly listen to my Shri Guru’s words and put her teachings into practice, I am guided inward. The teachings help me connect with my own inner Self, where I experience peace, joy, and a profound sense of belonging. Listening in this way takes me ever deeper within, into that vast inner space where there is only bliss.
I am deeply grateful for the blessing of being able to listen to my Shri Guru’s teachings, which continue to guide, uplift, and transform me every day.
Pune, India
“Listening to Shri Guru” has nurtured my heart and transformed my life completely. More than two decades ago, I began to listen to and follow the guidance of Shri Gurumayi. This changed the course of my life, making it meaningful and rich beyond measure. The experience of my life has become blessed as a result.
I keep a constant vigil to listen to the Guru within. I have been most grateful to hear the voice of Shri Guru, both within and externally. It is my true lifeline. In my understanding, “listening to Shri Guru” is what my sadhana is about.
a Gurukula student in Gurudev Siddha Peeth