Scriptures state repeatedly that guidance of a divine teacher is necessary for one who wishes to live a purposeful life and who wishes to know God. Such a teacher is known as the Guru. A Guru possesses theoretical knowledge of all the scriptures and a practical experience of God.
Although a Guru descends to earth for the sake of everyone, not everyone is attracted towards a Guru. Some are immediately attracted, while others take their time. Some may need coaxing and prodding, while many even criticize these divine teachers. History bears evidence to this fact. We have nailed such saints to the cross, poisoned them, maligned them and incarcerated them.
However, a Guru is a well wisher for the entire world because he is completely selfless. After attaining God, there is nothing remaining for him to attain. This makes him absolutely selfless. All his efforts and actions are solely for the sake of every person in the world.
It is for this reason that each and every soul who genuinely associates with the Guru benefits from his divine association. Just as iron is turned into gold if it comes in touch with gold, so even the most wicked person is reformed if he follows the instructions of the Guru with complete faith. There is a difference, however, between the touchstone and the Guru. While the touchstone converts iron into gold, a Guru in the form of a touchstone converts iron in the form of a disciple into touchstone in the form of a saint.
One of the greatest Gurus lived recently on earth for 91 years. He is Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj, and he was hailed as Jagadguru (Guru of the world) at a very young age of 34 on January 14, 1957. This day is known as 'Jagadguru Divas (day).'
On the 62nd anniversary of Jagadguru Divas, let us vow to appreciate the greatness of this Master's teachings and thus live a life of divine purpose. I wish to let the readers know that Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj has been my greatest inspiration in life and His divine light will continue to shine on the path of every sincere seeker.