Bhopal: “If you answer negativity with positivity, the jealous person will eventually feel ashamed.” These inspiring words were delivered by Muni Shri Praman Sagar Maharaj during a morning religious assembly at Vidya Praman Gurukulam, Avadhpuri. He emphasized the importance of staying free from jealousy and advised cultivating goodwill even towards those who envy us.
Muni Shri shared a thought-provoking anecdote involving Rabindranath Tagore. When Tagore won the Nobel Prize, a jealous neighbor claimed it was not due to talent but sycophancy. Instead of retaliating, Tagore visited the man, touched his feet, and credited the award to his kindness. Stunned by this humility, the man admitted his mistake and acknowledged Tagore’s worthiness. “Love has the power to transform hearts,” said Muni Shri.
He also cited the example of renowned philanthropist Ashok Patni. When the Income Tax Department raided his premises during the Paryushan festival, Patni, along with his wife Sushila and extended family, remained composed and continued their religious observance. Muni Shri recalled Patni’s words during that time: “Wealth, youth, and life are like drops of water—what is truly yours will never leave you.”
Ashok Patni and his family sought the blessings
Muni Shri warned against competing to be better than others, stating that such a mindset breeds jealousy and self-destruction. Muni Sangh’s spokesperson Avinash Jain Vidyavani shared that Ashok Patni and his family visited Awadhpuri, sought the blessings of Muni Shri, and inspected the Gurukulam.
Later, the ceremonial meal and rituals were completed. Gurukulam President Vineet Godha, General Secretary Anubhav Saraf, Treasurer Ajay Jainko, and other dignitaries including Narendra Tongya and Premchand Jain Premi honored Ashok Patni and his family with traditional symbols of respect—tilak, angvastra, Shriphal, necklace, and crown.
