The Festival of Bliss at Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, USA was a celebration like no other, marking the commencement of 60th birth anniversary of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji.
For three days, devotees, seekers, and friends from across the world gathered to honour a life dedicated to spiritual awakening, compassion, and service. The ashram buzzed with joy, devotion, and an energy that only comes from a gathering of hearts inspired by a truly extraordinary life.
Highlights from the Three-Day Festival of Bliss
The festival started on 26th September 2025 with a beautiful tribute to Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji’s life, setting the tone for what was to come. Day one included a Mega Humanitarian Event that was organised to provide assistance to the underprivileged. The celebrations also honoured 20 years of His transformative work in the United States, highlighting the impact His guidance has had on thousands of lives.
The following day brought more profound moments. His discourse touched hearts as always, sharing practical wisdom for daily living and spiritual growth. Attendees listened intently to Tales of Transformation, stories of lives changed through His teachings. The day ended on a high note with devotional melodies by Sachin Sanghvi, from the famous music-composer duo Sachin-Jigar, filling the ashram with soulful music and serenity.
The festival concluded on 28th September 2025 with the sacred Atmarpit Diksha Ceremony, where seekers dedicate themselves to a path of spiritual pursuit under Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji’s guidance. The moment inspired many to reflect on a life of spiritual pursuit and self-realisation.
This year, three young seekers stepped forward to walk this extraordinary path. Neil Shah from Indianapolis, USA, with an impressive academic journey spanning Indiana University, UC Berkeley, and now pursuing a PhD at Claremont School of Theology.
Kevin Shah from Mumbai, a Chartered Accountant choosing service over profession.
And Smriti Kothari, also from Mumbai, a trained Counselling Psychologist and gifted Hindustani Classical singer.
Their Diksha was not only an offering of devotion but also a powerful reminder that the light of spirituality continues to guide and inspire the youth across the world.
Every session, every discourse, and every gathering carried the unmistakable essence of His teachings, wisdom that is timeless yet immediately relevant, delivered with warmth, clarity, and a touch of humour.
A Glimpse into the Life of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji
Behind these celebrations is a life of extraordinary devotion and brilliance. Born on 26 September 1966 in Mumbai, India, Pujya Gurudevshri displayed signs of spiritual depth from a very young age. Long periods of silence and deep meditation were His early companions. At age eight, a picture of Shrimad Rajchandraji inspired a three-day trance, foreshadowing the spiritual journey that would touch millions.
Fondly called Bapaji or Pujya Gurudevshri, His presence radiates love, peace, and clarity. His academic journey mirrors His spiritual one, earning an M.A. in Philosophy with a gold medal and a Ph.D. for His research on Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra.
But beyond titles and achievements, His true brilliance lies in making profound spiritual truths accessible, practical, and inspiring for everyone.
Works That Inspire and Transform
Pujya Gurudevshri’s vision has materialised in the form of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, now spanning 206 centres across six continents. The Mission is not just about spiritual learning but also about living those values through satsang, sadhana, and seva, the three pillars He emphasises for holistic growth.
The Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, Dharampur, envisioned by Him, is a haven for seekers. Spread across 223 acres in South Gujarat, it serves as a global centre for spiritual practice, inner reflection, and personal transformation. Thousands of visitors experience clarity, peace, and a connection to their true selves, all under the gentle guidance of Pujya Gurudevshri.
An accomplished scholar, He has expounded on over 30 scriptures, authored a 4-volume treatise of 3000+ pages on Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra, and reached millions through TV broadcasts, webcasts, and translations in 11 languages. Beyond scholarship, He has inspired global humanitarian initiatives such as Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, empowering youth and children worldwide through the 5S programme and Divinetouch education centres.
A Festival to Remember
The Festival of Bliss at Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, USA was a living reflection of Pujya Gurudevshri’s teachings. Devotees witnessed wisdom in action, compassion unfolding through service, and joy that comes from spiritual connection. It was a reminder that a life lived with purpose, love, and dedication has the power to uplift countless hearts.
As attendees returned home, the memories of the festival, discussions, music, stories, and moments of quiet reflection carried forward the inspiration of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji’s birthday, a milestone celebrated not just as a birthday but as a celebration of a life that continues to guide, nurture, and transform the world.
