MAHASHAKTIPEETH INSTITUTE OF ASTROLOGY & SPIRITUAL RESEARCH

A Centre for Astrology, Spiritual Studies, Traditional Knowledge and Research

Knowledge • Learning • Research • Guidance

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About MAHASHAKTIPEETH

MAHASHAKTIPEETH INSTITUTE OF ASTROLOGY & SPIRITUAL RESEARCH is a dedicated centre for the study, research, education and responsible preservation of Astrology, Vastu, Kawadishastra, Mantra, Spiritual Sciences, Traditional Indian Knowledge Systems and related spiritual disciplines.

Under the guidance of Guru Revati Maai (Gurumaai), the Institute provides a platform for learning, research, consultation, spiritual practices, educational programs, workshops, seminars and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH brings together diverse traditional and spiritual disciplines under one institutional platform, with an emphasis on systematic learning, preservation of traditional knowledge and responsible guidance.

The Institute aims to make traditional knowledge accessible to students, practitioners, researchers, spiritual seekers and individuals who wish to explore India's rich spiritual and knowledge traditions.

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Our Vision

To create a meaningful and structured platform for the study, preservation, research, education and responsible transmission of traditional Indian knowledge and spiritual disciplines.

We envision a space where traditional wisdom can be studied with sincerity, discipline, respect and an open approach to learning and research.

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Our Mission

Our mission is to preserve and promote traditional knowledge through:

• Systematic study and education

• Research and documentation

• Courses and training programs

• Workshops and seminars

• Spiritual and traditional practices

• Knowledge-sharing initiatives

• Responsible consultation and guidance

• Awareness of India's diverse knowledge traditions

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Our Areas of Study and Services

Astrology & Jyotish

MAHASHAKTIPEETH provides study, consultation and guidance related to traditional Indian Astrology and Jyotish.

The study of Astrology includes traditional concepts associated with planets, zodiac signs, houses, nakshatras, planetary periods, transits, birth charts and other principles of Jyotish.

Our approach focuses on understanding the traditional principles and methodologies associated with Jyotish through structured learning and responsible guidance.

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Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra is a traditional Indian knowledge system concerned with principles of space, orientation, environment and built spaces.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH offers study and traditional guidance related to Vastu Shastra for residential, commercial and other spaces.

The objective is to understand traditional Vastu principles and their application within the context of a particular space.

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Kawadishastra

Kawadishastra is a traditional practice associated with the use and interpretation of cowrie shells.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH includes Kawadishastra among its areas of traditional knowledge and study.

The Institute seeks to preserve, study and share the traditional practices, concepts and cultural context associated with this knowledge system.

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Mantra Vidya

Mantra Vidya represents the traditional study and practice of sacred sounds, mantras, chanting and spiritual disciplines.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH provides opportunities to explore traditional mantra practices, their meanings, methods of chanting and their place within Indian spiritual traditions.

The study of Mantra Vidya is approached as part of a broader understanding of traditional spiritual practices and disciplines.

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Vedic Shanti & Graha Shanti

MAHASHAKTIPEETH is associated with traditional Vedic Shanti and Graha Shanti practices.

These include traditional rituals and practices performed within the framework of Vedic and Hindu traditions for specific spiritual and ritual purposes.

The Institute provides guidance and arrangements for appropriate traditional ceremonies based on the nature and requirements of the occasion.

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Puja, Abhishek & Havan

Traditional spiritual and Vedic practices form an important part of the activities associated with MAHASHAKTIPEETH.

These include:

• Puja

• Abhishek

• Havan

• Vedic Shanti

• Graha Shanti

• Mantra Japa

• Traditional spiritual rituals

Such practices are conducted according to the relevant traditional methods and the specific nature of the ceremony.

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Tarot & Divination Studies

MAHASHAKTIPEETH also explores Tarot and various traditional and international divination systems.

Tarot and related systems are studied as symbolic and interpretive traditions that have developed across different cultural contexts.

The Institute provides learning and guidance related to Tarot and other forms of divination as part of its broader study of traditional and contemporary spiritual practices.

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Meditation

Meditation is an important part of spiritual learning and inner development.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH offers meditation-oriented learning and practices that encourage concentration, awareness, introspection and inner discipline.

Different approaches to meditation may be explored according to the purpose and nature of the program.

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Yoga & Pranayama

Yoga and Pranayama form an important part of India's traditional systems of knowledge and practice.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH promotes learning related to traditional Yoga practices, breathing techniques, Pranayama, concentration and mind-body awareness.

These practices are approached as disciplines that support physical awareness, breath regulation, concentration and overall well-being.

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Spiritual Studies

MAHASHAKTIPEETH provides a platform for the study of Indian spiritual traditions and related knowledge systems.

Spiritual Studies may include:

• Meditation

• Mantra

• Yoga

• Pranayama

• Indian spiritual traditions

• Traditional practices

• Spiritual philosophy

• Sacred traditions

• Contemplative practices

• Comparative spiritual studies

The objective is to encourage sincere learning, understanding and exploration of spiritual traditions.

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Traditional Indian Knowledge Systems

India has a vast heritage of traditional knowledge encompassing philosophy, spirituality, astrology, architecture, yoga, meditation, ritual practices and numerous other disciplines.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH works towards the study, preservation and dissemination of traditional Indian knowledge systems.

Through education, documentation, research, discussions and practical learning, the Institute seeks to contribute to the continued understanding of India's diverse knowledge heritage.

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Research & Documentation

Research is an important part of the institutional vision of MAHASHAKTIPEETH.

The Institute encourages the study and documentation of traditional knowledge systems, spiritual practices and related cultural traditions.

Areas of research may include:

• Indian Astrology and Jyotish

• Vastu Shastra

• Kawadishastra

• Mantra traditions

• Vedic practices

• Spiritual traditions

• Meditation and Yoga

• Tarot and divination systems

• Traditional rituals

• Indian knowledge traditions

• Comparative spiritual studies

The objective is to encourage systematic learning, documentation and preservation of knowledge for future generations.

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Education & Training

MAHASHAKTIPEETH aims to provide educational opportunities for individuals interested in traditional knowledge and spiritual studies.

Educational initiatives may include:

• Certificate Courses

• Training Programs

• Workshops

• Seminars

• Lectures

• Study Sessions

• Practical Learning Programs

• Spiritual Learning Programs

• Research-oriented Programs

• Special Knowledge Sessions

Programs may be designed for beginners, learners, practitioners and individuals seeking deeper study in specific areas.

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Workshops & Seminars

MAHASHAKTIPEETH conducts and supports workshops, seminars, lectures and knowledge-sharing programs covering various subjects related to Astrology, Vastu, Mantra, Spiritual Studies, Yoga, Meditation, Tarot and traditional knowledge systems.

These programs provide opportunities for participants to learn from experienced practitioners, explore traditional concepts and engage in meaningful discussions.

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Guidance & Consultations

MAHASHAKTIPEETH provides traditional guidance and consultation in selected areas including:

• Astrology

• Vastu

• Kawadishastra

• Tarot

• Spiritual practices

• Mantra-related practices

• Traditional rituals

• Vedic Shanti

• Graha Shanti

• Puja, Abhishek and Havan

Consultations are intended to provide traditional guidance based on the relevant knowledge system and the information provided by the individual.

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Who Can Learn?

MAHASHAKTIPEETH welcomes individuals who are interested in learning about traditional knowledge, Astrology, Vastu, spiritual practices and related disciplines.

Our educational initiatives may be relevant to:

• Students

• Astrology learners

• Vastu learners

• Spiritual seekers

• Yoga and meditation practitioners

• Tarot learners

• Researchers

• Teachers and practitioners

• Individuals interested in Indian knowledge traditions

Both beginners and experienced learners may find opportunities for study depending on the specific program.

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Learning with Tradition and Responsibility

Traditional knowledge carries historical, cultural and spiritual significance.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH encourages learners to approach these subjects with respect, discipline, sincerity and an understanding of their traditional context.

The Institute promotes learning and research while respecting the diversity of traditions, schools of thought and practices associated with each subject.

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Guru Revati Maai (Gurumaai)

Guru Revati Maai (Gurumaai) is the guiding force behind MAHASHAKTIPEETH Institute of Astrology & Spiritual Research.

Under her guidance, the Institute brings together Astrology, Vastu, Kawadishastra, Mantra, Vedic practices, Spiritual Studies, Tarot, Meditation, Yoga, Pranayama and other traditional knowledge disciplines within a common institutional platform.

The vision is to create a space where traditional knowledge can be studied, preserved, practiced and shared with sincerity and responsibility.

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The MAHASHAKTIPEETH Approach

MAHASHAKTIPEETH follows a multidisciplinary approach to traditional knowledge.

Rather than limiting learning to a single discipline, the Institute provides an opportunity to explore the connections between different traditional systems and spiritual practices.

Our approach is based on:

Knowledge
Understanding traditional principles and concepts.

Learning
Developing structured knowledge through study and practice.

Research
Exploring, documenting and preserving traditional knowledge.

Guidance
Providing responsible guidance within the relevant traditional framework.

Preservation
Helping carry valuable knowledge traditions forward for future generations.

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Our Core Disciplines

ASTROLOGY
Traditional Jyotish and related studies.

VASTU
Traditional principles of space and environment.

KAWADISHASTRA
Study of traditional cowrie-shell practices.

MANTRA
Mantra traditions, chanting and spiritual practices.

VEDIC SHANTI
Traditional Shanti and Graha Shanti practices.

PUJA • ABHISHEK • HAVAN
Traditional ritual and Vedic practices.

TAROT & DIVINATION
Tarot and international divination traditions.

MEDITATION
Meditation and contemplative practices.

YOGA & PRANAYAMA
Traditional Yoga and breath-based practices.

SPIRITUAL STUDIES
Indian spiritual traditions and related disciplines.

RESEARCH
Study, documentation and preservation of traditional knowledge.

EDUCATION
Courses, workshops, seminars and training programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is MAHASHAKTIPEETH Institute of Astrology & Spiritual Research?

MAHASHAKTIPEETH Institute of Astrology & Spiritual Research is a centre dedicated to the study, research, education and guidance related to Astrology, Vastu, Kawadishastra, Mantra, Spiritual Studies, Yoga, Meditation and traditional Indian knowledge systems.

Who is the Director of MAHASHAKTIPEETH?

The Director and guiding force of MAHASHAKTIPEETH Institute of Astrology & Spiritual Research is Guru Revati Maai (Gurumaai).

What subjects are studied at MAHASHAKTIPEETH?

The Institute covers a wide range of subjects including Astrology, Jyotish, Vastu Shastra, Kawadishastra, Mantra Vidya, Vedic Shanti, Graha Shanti, Puja, Abhishek, Havan, Tarot, Meditation, Yoga, Pranayama, Spiritual Studies and Traditional Indian Knowledge Systems.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH offer Astrology consultation?

Yes. Astrology-related consultation, traditional guidance and educational services are among the areas associated with MAHASHAKTIPEETH.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH provide Vastu guidance?

Yes. Traditional Vastu Shastra study and guidance are among the services and areas of expertise associated with the Institute.

What is Kawadishastra?

Kawadishastra is a traditional practice associated with the use and interpretation of cowrie shells. MAHASHAKTIPEETH includes Kawadishastra among its areas of traditional knowledge and study.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH offer Mantra-related guidance?

Yes. Mantra Vidya and traditional mantra practices are among the areas studied and offered through relevant programs and guidance.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH conduct Vedic Shanti and Graha Shanti?

Yes. Traditional Vedic Shanti and Graha Shanti ceremonies and related practices are among the spiritual and ritual services associated with MAHASHAKTIPEETH.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH conduct Puja, Abhishek and Havan?

Yes. Puja, Abhishek, Havan and other traditional ritual practices may be conducted according to the nature and requirements of the ceremony.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH offer Tarot guidance?

Yes. Tarot and other traditional and international divination systems are included among the Institute's areas of study and guidance.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH teach Meditation, Yoga and Pranayama?

Yes. Meditation, Yoga and Pranayama are included among the Institute's spiritual and educational areas.

Can beginners learn at MAHASHAKTIPEETH?

Yes. Educational opportunities may be available for beginners as well as experienced learners, depending on the specific course, workshop or program.

Does MAHASHAKTIPEETH conduct research?

Yes. Research, documentation and preservation of traditional knowledge are important components of the Institute's institutional vision.

What is the purpose of MAHASHAKTIPEETH?

The purpose of MAHASHAKTIPEETH is to create a structured platform for the study, preservation, research, education and responsible transmission of traditional Indian knowledge and spiritual disciplines.

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Our Commitment

MAHASHAKTIPEETH is committed to creating a meaningful platform for traditional knowledge, spiritual learning and research.

We believe that knowledge traditions can be preserved when they are studied, documented, practiced and shared responsibly.

Through education, research, consultation, workshops, seminars and spiritual programs, MAHASHAKTIPEETH seeks to contribute to the continued understanding and preservation of India's rich traditional knowledge heritage.

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Connect With MAHASHAKTIPEETH

For information about consultations, courses, workshops, seminars, research programs, spiritual programs and other initiatives, please contact MAHASHAKTIPEETH Institute of Astrology & Spiritual Research.

MAHASHAKTIPEETH INSTITUTE OF ASTROLOGY & SPIRITUAL RESEARCH

Director: Guru Revati Maai (Gurumaai)

Website: www.gurumaai.org

Contact: 7028177950

Jyotish • Vastu • Kawadishastra • Mantra • Vedic Shanti • Graha Shanti • Puja • Abhishek • Havan • Tarot • Meditation • Yoga • Pranayama • Spiritual Studies • Traditional Knowledge • Research • Education

MAHASHAKTIPEETH
Knowledge • Learning • Research • Guidance

Goddess Possession or Spiritual Experience? Understanding Sanchaar in the Shakta Tradition | Gurumaai

I want to make one thing absolutely clear: just because a person is said to have the Goddess enter their body or experience a divine “possession” or “sanchaar,” it is not appropriate to immediately assume that the person is a divine soul, an incarnation of the Goddess, or someone who has received special divine powers. Such an experience may be a spiritual experience, but it certainly does not mean that the person has now acquired the power to solve everyone’s problems, predict other people’s futures, or has automatically earned the right to become a Guru. In my view, an experience of the Goddess may be the beginning of that person’s own spiritual journey. It may be a sign that the Goddess wishes that person to undertake worship and spiritual practice, transform themselves, engage in sadhana, chant the Divine Name, purify and discipline their own life, and move forward on the spiritual path. But unfortunately, these days we often see exactly the opposite happening. A person feels that the Goddess has entered them, and from the very next day they begin holding a “darbar,” or spiritual court. People start coming to them with their problems. Someone is worried about a job, someone about marriage, someone about money, someone about problems at home, and someone about health. Then, taking advantage of people’s faith, fear is created in their minds and money is made out of that fear. I do not consider this spirituality. Frightening people in the name of the Goddess, telling them that they are under some danger, asking them to perform certain rituals, give certain objects, pay a certain amount of money, and then claiming that their problems will disappear is not the path of the Goddess. If you have truly experienced the Goddess, your first question should not be, “How many people can I now bring into my darbar?” or “How many people’s problems can I solve?” Your first question should be, “What does the Goddess want me to do?” What do I need to change within myself? Where is my sadhana? How sincere is my worship? How much ego do I have? How much greed, anger, jealousy, selfishness and attachment exist within me? To what extent have I accepted the principles of the Goddess in my own life? These are the questions one must first ask oneself. Because an experience of the Goddess is not meant to increase a person’s ego; it is meant to reduce it. If one has truly received the grace of the Goddess, humility should appear in one’s behaviour, compassion should arise in the heart, a genuine longing for spiritual practice should develop, and there should be a desire to improve oneself. If simply because the Goddess is believed to enter us, we start predicting other people’s futures, claiming that we can solve everyone’s problems, and begin considering ourselves superior to others, then we have completely misunderstood the experience. I always ask one question: if a person cannot resolve their own problems, cannot control their own mind, cannot honestly examine their own karma, and cannot use spiritual practice to work through their own suffering, then how can that person possibly solve every problem of someone else? If you want to show others the path, you must first walk that path yourself. If you want to teach others sadhana, you must first practise sadhana yourself. If you want to teach others patience, you must first become patient yourself. If you want to tell others to give up their ego, you must first give up your own ego. Spiritual power does not mean exercising authority over other people; it means gaining mastery over your own mind. And this is where I also want to say something important about the Guru and the Guru-Shishya tradition. Simply experiencing a spiritual “sanchaar” does not make someone a Guru. Becoming a Guru is an extremely great spiritual responsibility. A Guru is not merely a person who sits before people, gives them mantras, or listens to their problems. To become a Guru requires years of spiritual practice, worship, knowledge of the scriptures, purity of conduct and thought, service to one’s Guru, discipline, self-control, and proper training within one’s spiritual tradition. In many Guru-Shishya traditions, a disciple is expected to spend a considerable period of time in the presence of the Guru, serving, practising sadhana, performing worship, studying spiritual scriptures, and following strict spiritual discipline. In some traditions, only after years of spiritual practice and after receiving the Guru’s permission is a disciple given the responsibility of guiding others. Therefore, the idea of “I became a disciple today and became a Guru tomorrow” is not the true essence of the Guru-Shishya tradition. Yet today, in some places, we see people accepting someone as their Guru, performing a few rituals for a short period, or experiencing what they believe to be the Goddess entering them, and immediately beginning to make others their disciples. Some even begin presenting themselves as Guruvarya, Sadguru, or as an authority possessing divine powers. I consider this deeply problematic. A person who has not yet truly lived the life of a disciple, whose own years of sadhana are unclear, and who does not properly understand the discipline and tradition of spiritual practice and worship within their sampradaya should think very carefully before taking responsibility for the spiritual lives of others. Therefore, do not blindly follow someone simply because they claim to be a Guru. Look at how many years they have practised sadhana, from whom they received initiation, what spiritual tradition they belong to, how deep their scriptural knowledge is, how they conduct themselves, whether they have their Guru’s permission, and most importantly, whether being in their presence increases not only your faith but also your discrimination, spiritual practice, discipline and inner purification. Merely having an experience of the Goddess entering the body cannot be the criterion for becoming a Guru. Such experiences may have spiritual interpretations, may arise in states of intense emotion or devotion, or may also have psychological or physical explanations. Therefore, such experiences should be approached with faith as well as discernment. If someone repeatedly experiences such states and they become distressing or disruptive to everyday life, there is nothing wrong with seeking appropriate medical or mental-health guidance alongside spiritual guidance. Faith and discernment are not enemies of each other. In fact, true faith gives a person discernment. Therefore, those who experience the Goddess should not immediately consider themselves special; rather, they should consider themselves a medium who has been given an opportunity to undertake the Goddess’s spiritual practice. Sit quietly before the Goddess. Worship Her. Chant Her Name. Look honestly at your own life. Recognize your mistakes and work towards transforming yourself. Experiencing the Goddess does not give you a license to predict other people’s futures, it does not give you the right to take money from people, and it certainly does not make you superior to others. Experiencing the Goddess does not mean that you have been awarded the title of Guru. Becoming a Guru means taking responsibility for people’s faith and spiritual well-being. Before accepting such a responsibility, one must first develop oneself to the level of qualification required for it. In my view, a true seeker spends many years learning, listening, serving, practising sadhana, working on their own weaknesses, and shaping themselves under the guidance of their Guru. Only then, if the responsibility of carrying forward the tradition is entrusted to them, do they accept it with humility. If someone had a spiritual experience yesterday and has already started making disciples today, we must certainly ask that person some questions. How many years have you been practising sadhana? Which tradition does your worship belong to? Who is your Guru? Who gave you permission to undertake Guru-work? How long have you yourself lived as a disciple and practised under your Guru? Asking these questions is not an insult to faith; rather, it is a way of protecting our faith. Therefore, my children, do not immediately accept someone as a Guru simply because you hear that the Goddess enters them, and do not immediately believe every grand claim that someone makes. Look at the person’s sadhana rather than their personality, their conduct rather than their words, their humility rather than their claims, and their ability to bring spiritual transformation rather than their miracles. True spiritual practice does not lead a person towards fame; it takes them inward. True devotion to the Goddess does not teach a person to dominate others; it teaches them to conquer their own mind. True Guru-shakti does not lie in keeping people bound at one’s feet; it lies in helping them recognize the divine strength within themselves. Therefore, experiencing the Goddess entering you is not the end; it may be the beginning of your spiritual journey. It is not a declaration of your greatness; it may be a spiritual responsibility placed upon you. If the Goddess wants you to accomplish something through Her, then first prepare yourself for Her spiritual practice. First become a disciple. First become a seeker. First transform yourself. Only after that should you consider whether you have truly attained the qualification to undertake the work of a Guru. Because a person who is in a hurry to become a Guru may be searching for a position, while a true seeker is searching for the path. And for me, the greatest things in spirituality are not position, fame, a darbar, or money; the greatest things are sadhana, humility, pure conduct, and surrendering one’s ego at the feet of the Goddess. The day a person begins to transform themselves is the day their true spiritual journey begins.

अंगात देवी आली म्हणजे गुरु होता येते का? शाक्त संप्रदायातील संचाराचा खरा अर्थ | गुरुमाई

मला एक गोष्ट अगदी स्पष्टपणे सांगायची आहे की ज्या व्यक्तीच्या अंगात देवी येते असे म्हटले जाते, त्या व्यक्तीला लगेच दिव्य आत्मा, देवीचा अवतार किंवा विशेष दैवी शक्ती प्राप्त झालेली व्यक्ती समजणे योग्य नाही. देवीची अनुभूती एखाद्या व्यक्तीला येणे ही एक आध्यात्मिक अनुभूती असू शकते, परंतु त्या अनुभूतीचा अर्थ असा अजिबात होत नाही की त्या व्यक्तीला आता प्रत्येकाच्या समस्या सोडवण्याची शक्ती मिळाली आहे, ती व्यक्ती इतरांचे भविष्य सांगू शकते किंवा तिला गुरु होण्याचा अधिकार प्राप्त झाला आहे. माझ्या दृष्टीने देवीची अनुभूती ही त्या व्यक्तीच्या स्वतःच्या आध्यात्मिक यात्रेची सुरुवात असू शकते. देवी त्या व्यक्तीकडून उपासना करून घेऊ इच्छित असेल, त्या व्यक्तीने स्वतःमध्ये परिवर्तन घडवून आणावे, साधना करावी, नामस्मरण करावे, स्वतःचे जीवन शुद्ध आणि सात्त्विक करावे आणि अध्यात्माच्या मार्गावर पुढे जावे, यासाठी आलेला हा एक संकेत असू शकतो. पण आजकाल अनेकदा याच्या अगदी उलट चित्र पाहायला मिळते. एखाद्या व्यक्तीला अंगात संचार आला असे वाटले की दुसऱ्या दिवशीपासूनच दरबार सुरू होतो, लोक समस्या घेऊन येतात, कोणाला नोकरीची चिंता असते, कोणाला लग्नाची अडचण असते, कोणाला पैशांची समस्या असते, कोणाला घरातील त्रास असतो आणि कोणाला आरोग्याची चिंता असते. मग श्रद्धेचा आधार घेऊन लोकांच्या मनात भीती निर्माण केली जाते आणि त्या भीतीतून पैसा कमावला जातो. मी अशा प्रकारच्या गोष्टीला अध्यात्म मानत नाही. देवीच्या नावाने लोकांना घाबरवणे, तुमच्यावर संकट आहे असे सांगणे, अमुक विधी करा, तमुक वस्तू द्या, एवढे पैसे द्या आणि तुमची समस्या दूर करतो असे सांगणे हा देवीचा मार्ग नाही. देवीची अनुभूती आली असेल तर पहिला प्रश्न हा नसावा की आता मी किती लोकांचा दरबार भरवू शकतो किंवा किती लोकांच्या समस्या सोडवू शकतो; पहिला प्रश्न हा असायला हवा की देवीला माझ्याकडून काय करून घ्यायचे आहे? माझ्यात काय बदलायला हवा? माझी साधना कुठे आहे? माझी उपासना किती प्रामाणिक आहे? माझ्यात अहंकार किती आहे? माझ्यात लोभ, क्रोध, मत्सर, स्वार्थ आणि मोह किती आहे? मी स्वतःच्या जीवनात देवीच्या तत्त्वांचा किती स्वीकार केला आहे? हे प्रश्न आधी स्वतःला विचारले पाहिजेत. कारण देवीची अनुभूती ही माणसाचा अहंकार वाढवण्यासाठी नसते, तर अहंकार कमी करण्यासाठी असते. देवीची कृपा मिळाली असेल तर माणसाच्या वागण्यात नम्रता आली पाहिजे, मनात करुणा आली पाहिजे, साधनेची ओढ निर्माण झाली पाहिजे आणि स्वतःला सुधारण्याची इच्छा निर्माण झाली पाहिजे. फक्त अंगात देवी येते म्हणून आपण दुसऱ्यांचे भविष्य सांगू लागलो, प्रत्येकाची समस्या सोडवण्याचे दावे करू लागलो आणि स्वतःला इतरांपेक्षा श्रेष्ठ समजू लागलो, तर आपण त्या अनुभूतीचा अर्थच चुकीचा घेतला आहे. मी एक प्रश्न नेहमी विचारते, ज्याला स्वतःच्या जीवनातील समस्या सोडवता येत नाहीत, स्वतःच्या मनावर नियंत्रण ठेवता येत नाही, स्वतःच्या कर्माकडे प्रामाणिकपणे पाहता येत नाही, स्वतःच्या दुःखातून बाहेर पडण्यासाठी साधनेचा आधार घेता येत नाही, ती व्यक्ती दुसऱ्यांच्या प्रत्येक समस्या कशा काय सोडवणार? दुसऱ्यांना मार्ग दाखवायचा असेल तर आधी स्वतः त्या मार्गावर चालावे लागते. दुसऱ्यांना साधना सांगायची असेल तर आधी स्वतः साधना करावी लागते. दुसऱ्यांना संयम सांगायचा असेल तर आधी स्वतः संयमी व्हावे लागते. दुसऱ्यांना अहंकार सोडायला सांगायचे असेल तर आधी स्वतःचा अहंकार सोडावा लागतो. आध्यात्मिक शक्तीचा अर्थ लोकांवर अधिकार गाजवणे नाही, तर स्वतःच्या मनावर विजय मिळवणे आहे. आणि याच ठिकाणी मला गुरु आणि शिष्यत्वाबद्दलही एक महत्त्वाची गोष्ट सांगायची आहे. केवळ अंगात संचार येतो म्हणून कोणी गुरु होत नाही. गुरु होणे ही अत्यंत मोठी आध्यात्मिक जबाबदारी आहे. गुरु म्हणजे केवळ लोकांसमोर बसून त्यांना मंत्र सांगणारी किंवा त्यांच्या समस्या ऐकणारी व्यक्ती नव्हे. गुरु होण्यासाठी स्वतःची दीर्घ साधना, उपासना, शास्त्रज्ञान, आचार-विचारांची शुद्धता, गुरूसेवा, संयम, आत्मशिस्त आणि आपल्या परंपरेतील योग्य प्रशिक्षण आवश्यक असते. आपल्या अनेक गुरु-शिष्य परंपरांमध्ये शिष्याला दीर्घकाळ गुरूच्या सान्निध्यात राहून सेवा, साधना, उपासना, शास्त्रअभ्यास आणि कठोर आध्यात्मिक शिस्त पाळावी लागते. काही संप्रदायांमध्ये दीर्घ कालावधीची साधना आणि गुरूची अनुमती मिळाल्यानंतरच शिष्याला पुढे मार्गदर्शन करण्याची जबाबदारी दिली जाते. त्यामुळे “आज शिष्य झालो आणि उद्यापासून गुरु झालो” अशी गुरु-शिष्य परंपरेची संकल्पना नाही. आजकाल मात्र काही ठिकाणी असे दिसते की एखाद्या व्यक्तीने कोणाचे तरी शिष्यत्व स्वीकारले, काही काळ काही विधी केले किंवा स्वतःला अंगात देवी येते असा अनुभव आला आणि लगेच त्या व्यक्तीने इतरांना शिष्य बनवायला सुरुवात केली. एवढेच नव्हे तर स्वतःला गुरुवर्य, सद्गुरू किंवा दैवी शक्तीचा अधिकारी म्हणून मिरवण्याची प्रवृत्तीही दिसते. मला हे अत्यंत चुकीचे वाटते. ज्याने स्वतः अजून शिष्यत्व पूर्णपणे जगलेले नाही, ज्याची स्वतःची साधना किती वर्षांची आहे हे स्पष्ट नाही, ज्याला आपल्या संप्रदायातील साधना-उपासनेची शिस्त आणि परंपरा नीट माहिती नाही, त्याने इतरांच्या जीवनाची आध्यात्मिक जबाबदारी घेणे अत्यंत गंभीर गोष्ट आहे. म्हणून एखादी व्यक्ती गुरु आहे असे म्हणते म्हणून तिच्यामागे धावू नका. तिची साधना किती वर्षांची आहे, तिने कोणत्या गुरूंकडून दीक्षा घेतली आहे, तिची परंपरा कोणती आहे, तिचे शास्त्रज्ञान किती आहे, तिचे आचरण कसे आहे, तिच्या गुरूंची अनुमती आहे का आणि सर्वात महत्त्वाचे म्हणजे तिच्या सहवासात गेल्यावर तुमच्यात श्रद्धेबरोबर विवेक, साधना, संयम आणि आत्मशुद्धी वाढते आहे का, हे पाहा. केवळ अंगात येणे हा गुरु होण्याचा निकष नाही. कारण अंगात येण्यामागे आध्यात्मिक अनुभव असू शकतो, भावावस्था असू शकते किंवा इतर मानसिक अथवा शारीरिक कारणेही असू शकतात; त्यामुळे अशा अनुभवांकडे श्रद्धेबरोबर विवेकाने पाहणे आवश्यक आहे. एखाद्याला वारंवार अशा अवस्था येत असतील आणि त्याचा दैनंदिन जीवनावर त्रासदायक परिणाम होत असेल तर आध्यात्मिक मार्गदर्शनाबरोबर योग्य वैद्यकीय किंवा मानसिक आरोग्य तज्ज्ञांचा सल्लाही घेणे चुकीचे नाही. श्रद्धा आणि विवेक हे एकमेकांचे शत्रू नाहीत. उलट खरी श्रद्धा माणसाला विवेक देते. म्हणूनच ज्यांना देवीची अनुभूती येते त्यांनी स्वतःला विशेष समजण्यापेक्षा स्वतःला देवीच्या साधनेसाठी मिळालेले एक माध्यम समजावे. देवीसमोर शांतपणे बसावे, उपासना करावी, नामस्मरण करावे, आपल्या जीवनाकडे प्रामाणिकपणे पाहावे, आपल्या चुका ओळखाव्यात आणि स्वतःमध्ये परिवर्तन घडवून आणावे. देवीची अनुभूती आली म्हणजे लोकांचे भविष्य सांगण्याचा परवाना मिळाला नाही, लोकांकडून पैसे घेण्याचा अधिकार मिळाला नाही आणि आपण इतरांपेक्षा श्रेष्ठ झालो असेही नाही. देवीची अनुभूती आली म्हणजे गुरु होण्याची पदवी मिळाली असे तर अजिबात नाही. गुरु होणे म्हणजे लोकांच्या श्रद्धेची जबाबदारी आपल्या खांद्यावर घेणे. ही जबाबदारी घेण्यापूर्वी स्वतःला त्या योग्यतेपर्यंत नेणे आवश्यक आहे.

माझ्या मते खरा साधक आधी अनेक वर्षे शिकतो, ऐकतो, सेवा करतो, साधना करतो, स्वतःच्या दोषांवर काम करतो आणि गुरूंच्या मार्गदर्शनाखाली स्वतःला घडवतो. त्यानंतरच परंपरेची जबाबदारी त्याच्यावर आली तर तो ती नम्रतेने स्वीकारतो. ज्याला कालच काही आध्यात्मिक अनुभव आला आणि आज तो लोकांना शिष्य बनवू लागला, त्याच्याकडे आपण नक्कीच प्रश्न विचारले पाहिजेत. तुमची साधना किती वर्षांची आहे? तुमची उपासना कोणत्या परंपरेची आहे? तुमचे गुरु कोण? तुम्हाला गुरुकार्याची अनुमती कोणी दिली? तुम्ही स्वतः किती काळ शिष्य म्हणून साधना केली आहे? हे प्रश्न विचारणे म्हणजे श्रद्धेचा अपमान नाही; उलट आपल्या श्रद्धेचे संरक्षण करणे आहे. म्हणून माझ्या लेकरांनो, कोणाच्याही अंगात देवी येते असे ऐकून लगेच त्या व्यक्तीला गुरु मानू नका आणि कोणाच्याही मोठमोठ्या दाव्यांवर लगेच विश्वास ठेवू नका. व्यक्तीपेक्षा तिची साधना पाहा, शब्दांपेक्षा तिचे आचरण पाहा, दाव्यांपेक्षा तिची नम्रता पाहा आणि चमत्कारांपेक्षा तिच्या सहवासातून तुमच्यात आध्यात्मिक परिवर्तन होते आहे का ते पाहा. कारण खरी साधना माणसाला प्रसिद्धीच्या मागे नेत नाही, ती त्याला अंतर्मुख करते. खरी देवीभक्ती माणसाला लोकांवर सत्ता गाजवायला शिकवत नाही, तर स्वतःच्या मनावर विजय मिळवायला शिकवते. खरी गुरुशक्ती लोकांना आपल्या पायाशी बांधून ठेवण्यात नाही, तर त्यांना त्यांच्या स्वतःच्या आत्मशक्तीची जाणीव करून देण्यात आहे. म्हणून देवी अंगात येणे हा शेवट नाही, ती कदाचित तुमच्या आध्यात्मिक यात्रेची सुरुवात आहे. ती तुमच्या मोठेपणाची घोषणा नाही, ती तुमच्यावर आलेली आध्यात्मिक जबाबदारी असू शकते. देवी जर तुमच्याकडून काही करवून घेऊ इच्छित असेल तर आधी स्वतःला तिच्या साधनेसाठी तयार करा. आधी शिष्य बना, आधी साधक बना, आधी स्वतःला घडवा आणि त्यानंतरच गुरुकार्याची पात्रता प्राप्त झाली आहे का याचा विचार करा. कारण गुरु होण्याची घाई करणारा माणूस कदाचित पद शोधत असतो, पण खरा साधक मार्ग शोधत असतो. आणि माझ्यासाठी अध्यात्मात सर्वात मोठी गोष्ट पद नाही, प्रसिद्धी नाही, दरबार नाही आणि पैसा नाही; सर्वात मोठी गोष्ट आहे साधना, नम्रता, शुद्ध आचरण आणि देवीच्या चरणी स्वतःचे अहंकाररहित समर्पण. ज्यादिवशी माणूस स्वतःला बदलायला सुरुवात करतो, त्यादिवशी त्याची खरी आध्यात्मिक यात्रा सुरू होते.

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देवी अंगात येणे, देवीचा संचार येणे, अंगात देवी येणे म्हणजे काय, शाक्त संप्रदाय, शाक्त संप्रदायातील साधना, देवीचा संचार, गुरु होण्याची पात्रता, गुरु शिष्य परंपरा, आध्यात्मिक साधना, देवी उपासना, गुरुमाई