[By Prof. S.S. Dogra]
In a world overwhelmed by deadlines, distractions, and digital noise, the soul quietly longs for a moment of stillness. I was fortunate to embrace such tranquility during a two-day Rajyoga retreat held last week at the serene Om Shanti Retreat Centre (ORC), nestled amidst the lush greenery of Manesar, Gurugram. Organized by the globally respected Brahma Kumaris spiritual organization, the retreat was far more than a mere escape from the outer world—it was a profound inward journey. Accompanied by my wife, Sunita Dogra, the experience proved to be both spiritually uplifting and deeply fulfilling on a personal level.
The invitation came from senior spiritual teacher BK Hussain Didi, whose gracious hospitality added a personal warmth to the entire event.
Brahma Kumaris: A Global Movement of Inner Awakening Founded in 1936 in Hyderabad (presently in Sindh, Pakistan) by Lekhraj Kripalani, lovingly known as Brahma Baba, the Brahma Kumaris organization has grown into a worldwide movement. With over 10,000 service centers across 150+ countries, it promotes self-knowledge, Rajyoga meditation, and value-based living. Significantly, it is led by spiritually empowered women, such as the late Dadi Prakashmani, Dadi Janki, and Dadi Gulzar, whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
Day One: Realigning with the Self
From the moment we stepped into ORC’s nature-filled campus, a calm energy seemed to embrace us. The retreat opened with a deeply insightful session by BK Divya Didi, who addressed prevalent mental challenges among youth—overthinking, emotional dependence, and self-doubt.
Her resonant message lingered with me:
“We may not be able to change others, but transforming the self is completely possible.”
She beautifully defined Rajyoga as a heartfelt conversation with the Supreme, a practice that lightens the mind and strengthens the spirit.
This was followed by a session with BK Sunaina Didi, who delved into the theme “Relationship with the Self.” Her powerful words:
“Whatever we received, however it came, and in whichever form—it was all good.”
This philosophy of acceptance struck a deep chord and offered a pathway to mental clarity and peace.
Day Two: The Power of Karma and Spiritual Strength
The second day featured a compelling session by BK Rajni Didi on “The Philosophy of Karma.” She emphasized that sins are not limited to actions but also arise from thoughts, words, and intentions.
“When actions are driven by lust, anger, or greed, they transform into sin,” she explained.
In the final session, BK Sunaina Didi returned to elaborate on the Eight Spiritual Powers derived from Rajyoga, such as the power to tolerate, discern, withdraw, face challenges, and cooperate with strength. The session provided not only knowledge but a spiritual toolkit for daily life.
Divine Dialogues and Thoughtful Exchanges
During the retreat, I had engaging conversations with BK Sanjay Hans at the Spiritual Art Gallery, BK Hussain Didi at the library, and a young software engineer named Hardik during a youth training session. These interactions added depth and warmth to the overall experience.
At the conclusion of the retreat, BK Hussain Didi graciously presented me with spiritual literature and sanctified offerings (prasad). In return, I offered her a copy of my book “Удачи вам” (Good Luck to You), written in Russian. It was a beautiful moment of cultural and spiritual exchange.
Nature’s Embrace and a Return to Self
The ORC campus is not just a spiritual retreat—it is a sanctuary where nature and divinity coexist in perfect harmony. Peacocks, squirrels, flowers in bloom, and gentle breezes whisper peace into the soul. It is a place that calls one back, again and again.
Final Thought: Peace Lies Within
This two-day experience was far more than a retreat—it was a soulful return home. At a time when the outer world is increasingly restless, centers like ORC offer a space to reconnect with oneself and the Divine.
“Peace is not found outside; it is discovered within.”
The Brahma Kumaris and places like ORC serve as luminous beacons in today’s chaotic world—guiding countless seekers toward inner peace, clarity, and strength.
(S.S. Dogra is a Sr. Journalist, Author and Media Educator.)
