Introduction

Guru Jambheshwar Bhagwan, also lovingly called Jambhoji Maharaj, was a great saint, social reformer, and environmentalist of the 15th century. He was born in 1451 in a small village called Pipasar (now in Nagaur district of Rajasthan, India). He founded the Bishnoi sect, which is renowned for its principles of living in harmony with nature, compassion for all living beings, and devotion to God. His teachings remain highly relevant in today’s era of environmental challenges.

Life and Early Years

Guru Jambheshwar was born into a Rajput family at a time when Rajasthan was facing severe droughts and ecological imbalances. From a young age, he displayed a deep spiritual inclination and a concern for nature. At the age of 34, he attained enlightenment at Samrathal Dhora (near Nokha, Bikaner).

Teachings and the 29 Principles

After enlightenment, Jambhoji laid down 29 principles (hence the name Bishnoi, meaning “followers of 29”). These principles covered:

• Environmental Conservation – Protecting trees and wildlife.
• Compassion and Non-violence – Prohibition of animal killing.
• Social Ethics – Living truthfully, avoiding theft, and maintaining purity.
• Health and Hygiene – Filtering water, avoiding intoxication, and maintaining cleanliness.
• Spirituality – Meditation and devotion to God (Satnam).

These principles created a sustainable lifestyle centuries before the world began talking about ecology and conservation.

Guru Jambheshwar as an Environmentalist

Guru Jambhoji is considered one of the world’s earliest environmentalists. The famous Khejarli Massacre (1730), where 363 Bishnois sacrificed their lives to protect Khejri trees from being cut, reflects the deep-rooted environmental values he instilled in his followers. Today, the Bishnoi community is still actively engaged in protecting wildlife like blackbucks, chinkaras, and trees in Rajasthan.

Spiritual Philosophy

Guru Jambheshwar emphasized that God exists in nature and protecting nature is the highest form of worship. His simple yet profound teachings blend spirituality with ecology, making his philosophy timeless and universal.

Legacy

• The Bishnoi community, spread across Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh, still follows his 29 commandments.
• He is remembered as a pioneer of eco-conscious living.
• His teachings inspire not only environmentalists but also social reformers and spiritual seekers across the world.

Conclusion

Guru Jambheshwar Bhagwan was not just a religious leader but a visionary who understood the importance of environmental balance, social ethics, and compassion centuries ago. His life and teachings show the way to live in harmony with nature and society. In today’s times of climate change and ecological crisis, his message shines brighter than ever, reminding humanity of its sacred duty to protect the Earth.

Introduction

Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) was one of India’s greatest spiritual leaders, reformers, and philosophers whose life and teachings continue to inspire millions across the globe. Born as Narendranath Datta in Kolkata, he was deeply influenced by spirituality from a young age. His meeting with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa transformed his life and led him to the path of service, knowledge, and devotion.

Early Life and Spiritual Journey

Swami Vivekananda was born on 12 January 1863, which is now celebrated as National Youth Day in India. He was a bright student, excelling in philosophy, literature, and history. Despite his academic brilliance, he was restless and searched for the deeper meaning of life. This spiritual quest brought him to Sri Ramakrishna, under whose guidance he realized that service to humanity is the truest form of worship.

Chicago Speech – 1893

One of the most iconic moments of his life was his historic speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago on 11 September 1893. Beginning with the words “Sisters and Brothers of America”, Vivekananda captured the world’s attention with his message of universal brotherhood, tolerance, and acceptance. His speech placed India on the global stage and introduced the depth of Hindu philosophy to the West.

Teachings and Philosophy

• Unity of all religions – He believed that all paths ultimately lead to the same truth.
• Service to humanity – He preached that “Service to man is service to God.”
• Youth empowerment – He called the youth the real strength of a nation and urged them to build a strong, fearless, and self-reliant India.
• Practical Vedanta – His teachings were not just philosophical but also practical, guiding people to apply spiritual principles in daily life.

Ramakrishna Mission

In 1897, he founded the Ramakrishna Mission, dedicated to education, healthcare, social service, and spiritual growth. The mission continues to serve humanity worldwide, following his ideals of selfless service and spiritual development.

Legacy

Though Swami Vivekananda passed away at the young age of 39 in 1902, his message continues to resonate. He inspired leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Aurobindo Ghosh, and continues to guide the youth of India towards self-confidence, discipline, and service to the nation.

Conclusion

Swami Vivekananda was not just a monk but a visionary leader and nation-builder. His teachings bridge spirituality and practicality, urging us to live with strength, compassion, and purpose. His life reminds us that the power of the human spirit can transform individuals, societies, and nations.

Introduction

Baba Ramdev, born as Ram Kisan Yadav on 25 December 1965 in Haryana, is a globally known Yoga Guru, spiritual leader, and entrepreneur. He is one of the most influential figures who revived the practice of yoga and Ayurveda in modern India and made them accessible to common people. His yoga camps, television programs, and the establishment of Patanjali Ayurved have earned him worldwide recognition.

Early Life and Spiritual Journey

Baba Ramdev was born in the village of Alipur, Haryana. Inspired by spirituality, he left his home at an early age and joined Gurukul Kalwa in Haryana, where he studied Sanskrit, Yoga, and Ayurveda. Later, he took monastic vows and adopted the name Swami Ramdev.

Popularizing Yoga

Baba Ramdev came into the limelight in the early 2000s through his morning yoga television shows, where he demonstrated yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and natural remedies. His simple teaching style made yoga easy to understand and practice for people of all ages.

Key contributions in Yoga promotion:

• Conducted free yoga camps across India and abroad.
• Brought yoga to the common households through TV shows like Divya Yog.
• Highlighted the benefits of pranayama, particularly Kapalbhati and Anulom Vilom.
• Encouraged a drug-free and natural lifestyle through Ayurveda and yoga.

Foundation of Patanjali

Along with Acharya Balkrishna, Baba Ramdev co-founded Patanjali Ayurved Limited in 2006. What started as a small venture in Haridwar became one of India’s fastest-growing FMCG companies. Patanjali promotes Ayurvedic medicines, food products, cosmetics, and household items, giving strong competition to multinational brands.

Social and National Impact

Baba Ramdev is more than a yoga guru—he has become a national icon. His impact includes:

• Reviving interest in ancient Indian knowledge systems.
• Making Ayurveda and Swadeshi (indigenous products) popular.
• Promoting fitness and health consciousness in society.
• Advocating for corruption-free governance and nationalism.

Conclusion

Baba Ramdev has transformed the image of yoga from being just a spiritual practice to a global health movement. He bridged the gap between ancient traditions and modern lifestyles, inspiring millions to adopt yoga and Ayurveda. Whether admired for his yoga teachings or his entrepreneurial achievements, Baba Ramdev stands as a modern face of Indian spirituality, health, and business innovation.