Dada Bhagwan

Early Life of Dada Bhagwan

Ambalal Muljibhai Patel, widely revered as Dada Bhagwan, was born on November 7, 1908, in Tarsali, Gujarat, India. From a young age, he displayed moral integrity and a contemplative nature, nurtured by his mother’s teachings of non-violence and compassion. These early lessons shaped his lifelong spiritual journey and his approach to helping others.

Spiritual Awakening and Early Insights

As a teenager, Dada Bhagwan began exploring the nature of existence and divinity. At the age of thirteen, he experienced a profound realization: when asked by his math teacher to find the smallest indivisible number, he recognized God as the indivisible entity present in all beings. This early insight sparked his lifelong quest to understand the divine essence within every individual.

Family Life and Detachment

At sixteen, he married Hirabaa, approaching the union with contemplation and awareness of life’s impermanence. Tragically, their two infant children passed away, yet Dada Bhagwan responded with equanimity, viewing attachments as temporary. Throughout his life, he demonstrated minimal attachment to material possessions, managing a successful construction business and using profits to support charitable causes.

The Enlightenment of 1958

In June 1958, while at a railway station in Surat, Gujarat, Dada Bhagwan experienced a profound spiritual awakening. Within an hour, he attained Self-realization, understanding the distinction between the Knower (the true Self) and his relative self, Ambalal Muljibhai Patel.

Akram Vignan: The Science of Self-Realization

Following enlightenment, Dada Bhagwan dedicated his life to teaching Akram Vignan, a spiritual science offering a direct, step-less path to liberation (moksha). Through this practice, individuals can achieve inner peace, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment.

Gnan Vidhi Ceremony

One of his key contributions was the Gnan Vidhi, a sacred ceremony imparting awareness of the real Self (pure Soul). During this ritual, Dada Bhagwan answered profound questions about God, karma, liberation, and the nature of existence, making complex spiritual concepts accessible to all seekers.

Teachings and Philosophy

Dada Bhagwan’s teachings are renowned for their clarity and practicality. He distilled the essence of all scriptures into simple language, covering topics such as:

• Karma and its consequences
• Human nature and self-understanding
• Non-conflict and adjustment in daily life
  His approach provided practical solutions to everyday dilemmas while guiding spiritual progress through right understanding.

Promoting Religious Unity: Trimandir

Dada Bhagwan envisioned Trimandir, a non-sectarian temple integrating elements of Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and Jainism. These temples serve as spiritual centers where individuals from different backgrounds can seek the real Self, transcending sectarian divisions. Today, eighteen Trimandirs have been established, with more planned globally.

Key Disciples: Niruben Amin and Deepakbhai Desai

In 1968, Pujya Niruben Amin (Niruma) joined Dada Bhagwan’s mission, dedicating herself to recording and spreading his teachings worldwide. Her selfless service ensured the continuity of Akram Vignan.

Pujya Deepakbhai Desai, a disciple who attained Self-realization at seventeen, has led the global propagation of Akram Vignan, maintaining Dada Bhagwan’s vision through Trimandirs, satsang centers, and spiritual guidance.

Global Impact and Foundation Work

The Dada Bhagwan Foundation, headquartered in Adalaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, oversees a township supporting spiritual practice. Facilities include a 15,000-seat convention center and centers for meditation, learning, and community engagement. The foundation also supports charitable initiatives in education, healthcare, and food distribution.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

The Department of Posts proudly released a Dada Bhagwan Commemorative Stamp, celebrating his life and teachings. The stamp honors his pioneering work in Akram Vignan and promotes awareness of his philosophy of self-realization, spiritual unity, and compassion. This tribute ensures that Dada Bhagwan’s vision continues to inspire generations worldwide.