Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati lives and teaches at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram on the banks of the River Ganga. She moved to India approximately twenty-five years ago. She is a graduate of Stanford University and holds a PhD in psychology. She is also vice-chair of the United Nations Faith Advisory Council on Religion. She also spearheads many social development projects as secretary-general of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance and president of the Divine Shakti Foundation.
Her book Come Home to Yourself - Teachings from the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, published by Penguin Random House emerged from the satsangs held each evening after the sacred Ganga aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, on the banks of the Ganga, and will resonate deeply with everyone.
In an interview with CSP Sadhvi Bhagawati speaks about her work and inspiration.
What made you stay back in India all those years ago? Have you had any more experiences or voices speaking to you?
How would you explain situation where one's life takes a course not of one's own accord. Why do such things happen to some people and not others?
What have you learnt in India about the concept of graciousness towards the athithi or guest. We say Athithi Devo Bhava....the guest is equal to God. Did you experience that?
Why and how did you turn to Sanyas. How does being a Sadhvi make who you are and what you do different? Is acesticism necessary for self realisation?
Thirthas or kshetras have great spiritual power. What role do you think Rishikesh and the Ganga played in your life?
What was the role of your Guru. What have you learnt from him?
