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Dada Vaswani'’s Commemorative Postage Stamp Released Ramesh Bais, Governor of Maharashtra, Releases Dada Vaswani’s Commemorative Postage Stamp Devusinh Chauhan, Minister of State for Communication, graced the event as Guest of Honour Hon’ble Governor and dignitaries take a tour of the Darshan Museum September 12, 2023, in a historic ceremony for India and the Sadhu Vaswani Mission, the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais released a commemorative postage stamp in honour and homage to Dada J.P. Vaswani. Gracing the event as the Guests of Honour were esteemed ministerial dignitaries including the Minister of State for Communication Shri Devusinh Chauhan and Shri Shankar Lalwani MLA. Before the commencement of the ceremony, the Hon’ble Governor and dignitaries visited the Darshan Museum – a state-of-the-art museum that depicts the life and teachings of the great saint, Sadhu T.L. Vaswani. The ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthem followed by the State Song. All dignitaries on the dais came together for the lamp lighting. A felicitation of the Hon'ble Governor and other dignitaries at the hands of Didi Krishna Kumari, Executive Head of Sadhu Vaswani Mission was held. Following this, an AV on Dada J.P. Vaswani was played. Didi Krishna Kumari gave a welcome address. She expressed her sincere gratitude to all the dignitaries for the efforts that led to the fruition of the postage stamp. Speaking on Dada, she said, “Dada’s life is his message. He did not teach or preach but he bore witness to every ideal in deeds of daily living. His message to us was two-fold – make God the centre of your life. Build your life in Him.”. This was followed by a recorded AV of Dada J.P. Vaswani. It highlighted the message of love. He said, “The nations and individuals alike must love another or perish! Bear witness to love in everyday life! Unfold the seven colours of love – patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, desirelessness, sacrificial, universality”. Next, the Minister of State for Communication Shri Devusinh Chauhan, addressing the gathering said, “We feel blessed that today India Post has the opportunity to release a commemorative stamp in homage to Dadaji. Dada's persona is such that thinking of him makes us want to bow down before him. Dada's talks tell us that despite this age of technology and advancement, there is a spiritual evolution that is most needed. His teachings continue to remind us that regardless of the material wealth we gather, it is important that we work on our spirit. His life is an inspiration. Our true tribute to him would be to walk the way of his teachings and ideals.” Finally, at 12:50 hrs, the milestone moment arrived; the Hon’ble Governor officially released the commemorative postage stamp on Dada J.P. Vaswani. He also released books authored by Dada – Nark Se Swarg Tak, a translation of ‘From Hell to Heaven’ and ‘Swatah Saksham Bana’, a translation of Empower Yourself. Taking to the podium, the Chief Guest for the ceremony, the Hon’ble Governor, Shri Ramesh Bais in his address to all said, “The land of Maharashtra has seen the birth of several revered saints. Dadaji, like Swami Vivekananda, was the messenger of peace and harmony in Maharashtra. His Mission serves one and all regardless of caste, creed, or race. Today, we are all gathered to reflect on his teachings and pay homage to him through the issue of this commemorative postage stamp. I offer my obeisance to him and salutations for his humanitarian works. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks. The commemorative stamp will be available at the local India Post offices.

May 11: Arrival at Toront Nature is a manifestation of the Divine, and today, even nature welcomed beloved Didi. The city of Toronto took a 180-degree weather shift. Didi brought with herself warmth and light, dispelling the cold and darkness not just in the literal sense, but also in the hearts of the people. Devotees gathered at the airport and in their melodious voices, sang together in the Sindhi language. “Aj deenha sabhago aahey, Didi asaan vat aahey aahey; prem ja pyaala piyaare, man jo andhero mitaaye”: It is a blessed day, for Didi has come to us, quenching our thirst with love, removing the darkness within us. In the evening, a small Satsang was organised at the residence of Didi’s host. Didi’s message was: cleanse your heart. Our hearts are blotched with blemishes, stained with specks of negativity. We are very particular about our external hygiene and cleanliness, but when it comes to our internal environment, we turn a blind eye. One tip Didi shared was: to live your life in humility. See the good in others; seek out their strengths and appreciate them. May 12: Ruh Rihan Satsang No matter where in the world you are, you will find Sindhis. In Toronto, the Sindhis have their very own temple, the Sindhi Gurmandir, where Didi’s program was held. Didi was welcomed by MP Rechie Valdez, who upon meeting Didi had tears in her eyes. Mr. Arjun Jasuja was overwhelmed with joy and expressed his emotion through a song he penned himself. The children showcased a myriad of talents before Didi, welcoming her with their angelic smiles. In Revered Dada’s upadesh, he encouraged us to develop deep longing for the Lord. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Didi’s talk. Didi awakened us to the fact that today, our lives are artificial – a show put on to please others, rather than an attempt to discover our true self. Sadhu Vaswani came to remind us that we are the Atman; within us is a Light that cannot be extinguished – the light which, once kindled, will lead us on the path of righteousness.

May 6: Arrival at Dallas When you are connected to a Divine power, you never feel worn out, for that power fuels and sustains you. This can be seen in the way Didi Krishna serves her Master, so diligently and so tirelessly. Without even a moment’s break, Didi left for the airport immediately after the program in Atlanta. The next stop on Didi’s yatra was Dallas. A group of very dynamic and keen devotees gathered at the airport to greet Didi. So strong was their longing to see Didi, that they found their way inside the airport terminal, before Didi could even collect her bags! In the evening, a satsang was organized at the host’s residence. “It’s time to wake up,” Didi said in her gentle, yet powerful voice. While living in the world – which has been created for us to enjoy - we must not disregard our soul; we must take the effort to cultivate the soul. Those who were present did not take Didi’s message lightly. In fact, Didi left such a profound impact on them, that they spontaneously decided to take on three new initiatives: Gurukul classes for children, Bridge Builders for the youth, and a monthly Sadhu Vaswani Satsang! May 7, 2023 - Meeting with the Youth of Dallas The next day was jam-packed with program after program, making the most of Didi’s one-day trip to Dallas. Didi started her day with the youth, who had all read Dada’s book “Tips for Teenagers”. Each one shared the lesson that they received from the book. Having a positive attitude despite your circumstances; staying calm and responding rather than reacting when you become angry; not being discouraged when you make a mistake; establishing a connection with God – these were some of the prevalent lessons learned. Didi listened to all with a patient and understanding ear, after which she shared practical tips on how to implement those lessons in their daily life. The young adults were determined to begin a monthly youth session and marked the date for their very first meeting in June. Storytime with Didi The youth session was followed by a cozy gathering with the little children of Dallas. To start, the children were first taught the prayer “Thank you God for the food I eat, thank you God for the friends I meet, thank you God, for the songs I sing, thank you God for everything!” Didi then narrated a story which depicted the difference between ‘heaven’ and ‘hell’. The inhabitants of hell are weak and frail. They are unable to eat the food in front of them, because their elbows do not bend, making it impossible for them to feed themselves. On the other hand, the inhabitants of heaven are healthy and glowing, because they have found a way to eat: even though their elbows cannot bend, they can still reach their arms out and feed each other! Heaven, Didi said, can be created on earth, if we simply learn to love and share what we have with each other. Didi’s Talk on ‘You are Unique’ In the evening, Didi was scheduled to give a talk on the topic “You are Unique”. Mr. Ashok Dandekar, President of the Chinmaya Mission, Dallas, warmly welcomed Didi. Shabnam Modgil from Radio Caravan blessed the event with her presence as well. Didi started her talk with a reminder that many of us need to hear today: You are special. Each one of us has been blessed with our personal strengths, gifts, and capabilities. Yet, how many of us experience this wonder of being unique and special? Most of us are live in constant comparison with others. We feel inferior to those around us. However, we forget that what we see on the outside is superficial. What matters is who we are, internally.

May 4: Youth Meet at Host’s Residence On May 4, Didi arrived at the fourth destination of her yatra: Atlanta. That evening, Didi met with the youth in an informal setting, and together they shared a heart-to-heart on various topics of the soul. Didi recognized that today’s youth wish to be independent. However, true independence is doing what is right and not simply doing what we desire. In life, there are two paths we can take: the path of preya, self-indulgence, or the path of shreya, self-control. Shreya, although a difficult road, will lead you to true freedom. Didi shared five tips to help us walk on the path of self-control. A question-answer session followed, in which someone asked: What happens if a situation prevents you from following the path of shreya? Didi’s response emphasized the importance of self-control: rather than blaming situations, remember that you are always responsible for the choices you make. The youth were captivated by Didi’s words. A spark had been ignited in their hearts, for they decided in that moment to start monthly youth Satsangs. With Didi’s guidance, a format was drafted and their first meeting was scheduled. May 5: Ruh Rihan Satsang It was the blessed Buddha Purnima Day, and the city of Atlanta was doubly blessed to have a ray of Light in the form of Didi Krishna, in their midst. Members of the community showered Didi in rose petals, expressing their adoration for her. “Be your own lamp. Don’t walk in someone else’s,” Beloved Dada shared in his Upadesh, after which Didi began her talk: We live in darkness – darkness of the ego, darkness of desire. Desires bind us, for our happiness depends on the fulfilment of desires. May 6: “Choose Happiness” Talk at the Carter Center A motivational speaker, a light of hope to forlorn souls, someone who encourages others to progress on the spiritual path – these were some of the many qualities that were listed in a proclamation presented to Didi by Dr. Gloria Tinubu on behalf of the Atlanta City Council. A beautiful performance of classical dance was performed, welcoming Didi in the most resplendent way. The topic of Didi’s talk was: “Choose Happiness”. Happiness, Didi said, is not conditional; we cannot rely on external circumstances to determine our mood. Happiness is within us, yet we always look outside of us, for the world and its temptations appear attractive to us.

Factsheet Name: Dada Vaswani Skill Development Institute Mission: To empower women through free skill development courses Target Audience: Poor and needy women and those in need of upskilling Location: Manjri & Pimpri (Pune) Established: December 2021 Contact: Sadhu Vaswani Mission | pro@sadhuvaswani.org | Certification Courses Offered: Tally Course Tailoring Course Beautician Course Cooking Course Baking & Confectionery Course Basic Computers Course Certificate Recognition: Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India Highlights: Free skill development courses provided to women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Certificate enables women start their business and get good jobs. Training programs designed to enhance employability and entrepreneurship skills. Experienced trainers guide the students throughout their course duration with focus on both practical skills and personal development. Examinations conducted to evaluate learning and understanding. Counselling sessions to encourage financial independence, boost confidence, and foster growth in women. Supportive environment and in-house opportunities to step into the world of business. Positive impact seen in the lives of the women and their families. Report Introduction Dada Vaswani Skill Development Institute (DVSDI), established in December 2021, is dedicated to the cause of ‘Women Empowerment’. To achieve this objective, free skill development courses with certification recognised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Govt. of India are being offered to needy women and those that are aiming to upskill themselves. The vision is to improve the lives of these women, increase their chances of employability or entrepreneurship, help them achieve financial independence, and lead a life of dignity and respect. The Institute operates at 2 locations in Pune, India – Manjri and Pimpri. In addition to the existing courses, DVSDI is also working towards expanding and offering more skill programmes for women. Also, the construction of a dedicated building for the Skill Development Center is underway. Dada J.P. Vaswani often said, "Women fashion the soul of a nation. It is a woman’s soul that will lead us upward on." It is this vision and Dada’s faith in the potential and shakti of women that brought to fruition DVSDI. The Sadhu Vaswani Mission engages in several charitable activities. During these activities, we were faced with one of the stark realities of the so-called 21st century – our women, our sisters and mothers are still living a life of dependency with little or no skills. The pandemic brought to the fore the magnitude of life’s uncertainty. Imagine being a dependent, unskilled woman in such a situation! That’s where DVSDI comes into the picture. Holding on to the vision of the Masters, we created this safe little world for our sisters and mothers who can learn new, employable skills and begin a life that promises them new beginnings. "It’s never too late to start is what we tell them!” shared an official. “Moreover, even if we were to discount the uncertainty, one thing remains consistent – women build a household and therefore, if they are independent, not only do they contribute to the family but also to the overall development of the home,” the official added. Courses Offered: DVSDI offers courses that hold the possibility to generate income immediately upon completion. The curriculum is meticulously designed to make the participants' job ready and includes both theory and practical. Evaluation is conducted through the process of a formal examination on which the students are marked. Each of the courses has experienced trainers who give personal attention to each student. A batch comprises 12-30 participants. Baking and Confectionery course trainer, Sunanda Banubakode, sharing her experience said, “We teach them end-to-end process; right from preparation to packaging for sale, everything is included as a part of the training. Another essential aspect is we train them to use cooking gas and not electronic gadgets. Given their financial status, it is inconceivable that they would be able to afford these products. Therefore, we have chosen this method to make sure that they have no roadblocks or investment needed once they complete the course.” “The course has been engaging and interactive. Students are very receptive and eager to learn. They even go home and try the recipe out only to bring it the next day for tasting and evaluation,” she added. “Starting out in the business of baking can fetch around INR 20,000/- which is huge for a below-the-poverty-line family. They know the worth of the course and therefore they give it their hundred per cent!” she concludes. The trainer for the beautician course, Manisha Patil, said, “Should the students diligently complete the course, they will certainly draw a minimum of INR 15,000/- which is enough to meet basic household expenses! We, therefore, blend the learning with a lot of practice so that they can begin their business even from their homes. Beautician services are indispensable and therefore their roles in society too are crucial. We want to make sure that they step in as professionals, not novices.” The Centers & Its Operations: DVSDI believes in the holistic growth of women and therefore the Institute coordinators and trainers make sure of a conducive and healthy learning atmosphere. While ensuring discipline, an environment of two-way communication is created where the learner is free to approach and share their feedback. This is a step towards helping them ‘think for themselves’ and build a new life. Seema Kukreja, Coordinator at the Pimpri Institute said, “There are women who are eager to learn but never got the opportunity. And when they get this platform, I have observed how they come into their own. They just need the chance to bloom, the seeds are already there.” “All our courses come with extra practice sessions. The students are free to come to the Institute and practise whenever they want to. We make sure that the material they need is always ready in advance. Their eagerness and our efforts go together in achieving success. At the same time, we maintain discipline where the students need to have 80% attendance to get the certificate. This ensures that they just do not carry a paper certificate but have learnt something constructive that can help them grow and flourish,” she added. Rohini Jagtap, coordinator at the Manjri Institute shared, “This is a rural community and there are countless women who have never stepped out of their homes. This opportunity is liberating for them. Currently, we have underprivileged children studying at the Sadhu Vaswani Gurukul, Manjri. Our skill development batches are conducted for the mothers of these children. These women then through word-of-mouth tell their neighbours and others to join. We have seen so many of these women transform from being meek to confident. The sheer learning of a skill develops their personality and it is a motivation for us to bring in more such women who can make the most of these skills. Impact and Success Stories: DVSDI, since its establishment, has created a positive impact in the community. Numerous women have benefited through the course and have even gone on to start their own businesses. Ashwini Bhondwe, a former learner who has completed the Basic Sewing Operator Course, said, “My husband is very encouraging and supportive; to the extent that he pushed me to achieve something of my own. The background we come from its difficult to even step out of our homes. But the DVSDI comes with its name and reputation and therefore even our families are supportive and send us here to learn. Today, I feel proud that I can contribute to my household purchases and do not have to ask my husband for small things. It has improved the way the people around me, see me. Earlier, they would think of me as someone who knows nothing; today their perception of me has changed.” Today, Ashwini works at the DVSDI and stitched pouches for the Sadhu Vaswani Mission’s sevas. She earns a decent income from this employment and also runs her own business and gets orders for other stitching assignments at home. Rajashree Dhaktode, another former learner of both the Beautician and Basic Sewing Operator Course said, “I can bring my child here with me. That lifts a major burden off my shoulders. While he is under my watch and care, I can continue to work and earn income.” Rajashree, too has found employment at DVSDI and feels more confident and independent. Challenges in the Journey: The vision of DVSDI is to bring such confidence and empowerment to many more women in need. But we do encounter a few roadblocks in realising this aspiration to its fullest potential. But as Revered Dada Vaswani says, “Problems are stepping stones but not stopping stones.” Overhead costs: Running a full-fledged skill development institute involves numerous overhead expenses such as maintenance, electricity, and administrative costs. Trainers' remuneration: Hiring and retaining experienced trainers requires financial resources. Ensuring fair compensation for trainers is crucial to maintain the quality of education and sustain the institute's operations. Materials for courses: The Center provides the entire raw material required for baking and confectionery and cooking classes. None of the material is to be brought by the learner. This is essential for practical training and these involve huge costs. Equipment for courses: Courses like basic computers and tally require the students to have computers. Maintenance of this incurs costs and therefore adds to the expense of the Institute. Need for counselling sessions: The background from which the women come requires a mindset shift and need guidance in different areas including career and financial understanding. Additionally, there are several mental barriers that need to be broken for them to realise their worth. All this calls for counselling sessions and certainly adds to the costs. Contribute to the Cause: DVSDI, in its earnest effort, to bring empowerment to women from disadvantaged groups seeks your generous support. Donate generously to this cause and build the life of our mothers and sisters who have been deprived of their rightful opportunities for generations. Our efforts and your support can create a ripple effect and bring about equality, and financial independence, and promise a life of dignity to the women of our society.

Miami Worldcenter lights up with the World’s Tallest Tribute to an Indian Saint! Organised on Didi Krishna Kumari’s visit to Miami. Miami Worldcenter lights up with the World’s Tallest Tribute to an Indian Saint - Drone Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/LIQMkPtktwY?feature=share On the evening of Thursday, April 27, the 700-foot-tall (over 213m) Paramount Miami Worldcenter lit up in tribute to the Indian saint, Dada J. P. Vaswani. The center column of the 60-story superstructure lit up with the phrase ”Give Love, Live Love.” which encapsulates Dada’s life message, alongside Dada’s name. Dada believed that what this world needs, more than anything else, is the transformative power of Love. Paramount Miami Worldcenter is Miami’s soaring signature skyscraper, and it features the world’s most technologically advanced L.E.D. animation system. The display was organized by Merrimac Ventures, which has developed Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest urban downtown developments in the United States. With this tribute, Didi Krishna Kumari - the head of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission, Pune, India - was welcomed to Miami. Didi Krishna is visiting the United States for her multi-city tour, which continues in South Florida this weekend before moving on to Atlanta, Dallas, and New York. Dada J. P. Vaswani has been Didi Krishna Kumari’s spiritual guide and mentor since she was three years old.

ST. MAARTEN – APRIL 23-24, 2023 April 23: Ruh Rihan Although she was only in St. Thomas for a couple of days, Didi filled the hearts of the people with a love that would abide in their hearts, for years to come. On April 23, Didi flew to her next destination: the friendly island of St. Maarten. She was scheduled to give a talk that very evening. With no time to rest, Didi made her way to the Belair Community Center. The hall resonated with the dulcet voices of the children singing “Swagatam Krishna Didi”. A soulful performance of classical dance was put on by a group of young girls, after which Beloved Dada’s upadesh was played. Who are you, really? Dada put this question to the audience. You are not the body, Dada reminded us. You are the atma, the atma that is aschraj – a wonder. Once you realize this, you will become fearless. Dada’s urge to spend time in self-reflection left the audience with a new purpose. Who was Dada? Didi then proceeded to answer her question: Dada was a farmer – he sowed seeds of truth in our heart; Dada was an awakener – he came to awaken us from the slumber of the senses; Dada was a liberator – he came to set us free, free from the shackles of desire, free from our unhealthy habits. Each one of us is a sum total of our habits, therefore we must be careful of our habits. It is natural for us to make mistakes, but instead of dwelling on them, it is necessary to seek forgiveness – not just passively, but we must make a u-turn by altering our habits. Most of us are always oscillating between happiness and sadness, because we have identified ourselves with the body, failing to recognize what we truly are. April 24: Meeting with the Teenagers of St. Maarten An intimate gathering with the youth of the island was held, and each one got the opportunity to present Didi with a question or a dilemma. The topic of mental illness – which is very prevalent amongst today’s younger generation – was broached. We become anxious, Didi said, because we focus more on the outcome. We fear that we will not achieve success. Rather than the result, let our focus be fixed on the effort. Let us not turn the journey, the ride of life, into a race. After all questions were answered, Didi raised a question: what do children today value the most? Today, everyone wants freedom. Freedom, however, is not doing what makes you happy. Rather, freedom is making the right choice, for it is your choices that create your destiny. April 24: English Talk on ‘Empower Yourself Today, many people feel discouraged, disheartened, and disempowered. They believe that life is a punishment. It is no surprise then, that a large crowd had gathered to listen to Didi’s speak on the topic, ‘Empower Yourself’. Didi Krishna was warmly welcomed by Mr. Sunny Lalwani of the Indian Merchants Association, after which Mercedes De Windt of the Animal Defenders shared a few words. Animals too have feelings and the right to live, she said, echoing Dada’s beliefs. The Honorable Prime Minister, Silveria Jacobs, graced the evening with her presence. Everyone, she said, must have the right to opportunities. We must come together to break barriers, so that each one can thrive, each one can be empowered. Didi commended the Prime Minister for her dedication, devotion, and focus. Life, Didi said, is uncertain. The only thing we really have control over is ourselves. Yet, how many of us are in charge of our life? How many of us know what we want out of life? To be truly empowered is to wake up with courage, confidence, and faith, to feel a new surge of energy every morning. Didi then passed on four tips on how to empower oneself. 1. Destiny is in our own hands: through our thoughts, we create our future. 2. Play the game by its rules: the rule of life is Sathyam vada, Dharmam chara” – Always follow the path of truth and righteousness. 3. Stay connected to the Source. 4. Live in the moment. A question-answer session by Beloved Dada followed. There is nothing that is impossible, for with practice, you will achieve your goals, Dada said.

ST. THOMAS - English Program: ‘Habits for Happiness’ – April 21 St. Thomas was the first official stop on Didi’s tour to the West. Members of the St. Thomas community gathered at the MCM Center to welcome Didi Krishna, who very beautifully portrayed the sea as a metaphor for happiness – within the sea, there is a stillness, and similarly, within each one of us is the happiness that we are seeking. “Dada is gracing us from above with the presence of whom he has groomed not only to become his hologram but also a person who can continue his legacy", Mr. Pash Daswani, President of the India Association of St. Thomas, greeted Didi with words of reverence and appreciation. After commending the Governor for proclaiming November 25 as an International Meatless Day, Didi Krishna began her talk on “Habits for Happiness”. Our happiness, Didi said, is short-lived, it is dependent on the fulfilment of desires. However, desires are endless; the moment one desire is fulfilled, the next one arises. Each one of us is carrying a bowl of greed – a bowl that is never filled because of our greed. Didi then passed on five simple habits for happiness: Eliminate Joy Killers: Each one of us has negative traits, negative thoughts, negative emotions that prevent us from being happy. We must identify these ‘joy killers’ and eradicate them. Have an Attitude of Gratitude: Every day, we are faced with small things that disturb our mental balance. Gratitude helps us to remain centered and at peace. Cherish Your Relationships: The one thing in life that we take for granted other than the air we breathe, is our relationships. Rather than criticizing and fault-finding, may we learn to appreciate the strengths of our loved ones. Share Happiness: The happiness that goes out of you comes back to you. The more love, kindness, and compassion that you give to others, the more you will receive. Stay Connected: When our phone’s battery gets depleted, all we do is put it to charge. After some time, the phone will once again function. In the same way, we need to charge ourselves. God is closer to us than we know; we simply have to connect to the Source. A question-answer session of Beloved Dada was also played. The chief guest of the evening, Honorable Governor Albert Bryan Jr. accompanied by Lt. Governor, Tregenza Roach, was profoundly impressed by Didi Krishna’s talk, and echoed her thoughts of practicing gratitude, spreading love and peace, and staying connected. He invited Didi to return to the island every year, and presented her with a plaque of honour. Ruh Rihan – April 22 The island of St. Thomas was blessed this evening, for after weeks of drought, the rains finally poured. It was as if Divine grace was showering on the people of St. Thomas. The evening commenced with an endearing performance by the little children, who in their sweet voices recited mantras from each faith, reminding us of Dada’s teaching that all paths lead to the same goal. Mrs. Kanta Vansandmalani, the MC for the evening, likened Dada to the sun, the moon, and the stars – ever present with us; and now, through Didi Krishna, his presence was palpable. In Beloved Dada’s upadesh, he reminded us of the consequences of anger. Anger is destructive, it stains our heart. Therefore, if we wish to remain internally pure, we must immediately ask for forgiveness from the one towards whom we feel anger or resentment. The audience was spellbound by Dada’s talk, and they continued to be in awe as Didi commenced her talk. Didi began her talk by urging the audience to keep the Sindhi language alive. “What is one thing you are lacking in life?” Didi then prompted the audience with this question. Time, was the answer. Today, there is a dearth of time. We do not realize that time is limited, our breaths are limited. We ensure that we take care of everything else – our health, our business, and our investments. But do we take care of how we spend our time? Are we intentional about our time? Life, Didi said, can either become a garden, or a desert. The choice is in our own hands. Didi then passed on two key ingredients to making our life a garden: building your life in prayer, and developing an understanding spirit. A resonating clap came from the audience. Didi then distributed prasad to each member present.

1st April 2023 Sevas Bring Double-Joy to Children & Women! 5000 Students Receive Stationery Kits! Women Trained at SVM Skill Development Institute Benefit with a Modest Income, Enabled to Stand on their Own Feet! 1st April 2023, was an activity-filled day at the Mission. As early as 6:30 AM, the enthusiastic hustle of volunteers kept everyone on their toes. Today, as many as 5000 little children were to receive stationery kits as a part of the ‘Stationery Distribution Sevas.” What’s more! The pouches in which these kits are distributed are stitched by the women trained at the Sadhu Vaswani Skill Development Centre. The seva thus benefited two sections – children and women. While children are enabled for an equipped education, women are encouraged to stand on their feet, take small steps towards achieving financial freedom and live a life of dignity with the income earned through making these pouches and more. 11 volunteers, in 3 vehicles, left at 7:00 AM from the Mission headquarters and left in three different directions – Wagholi, Perne, Manjri. At these locations were the 30 Zilla Parishad schools where their students were eagerly waiting for their brand new set of stationeries. “The schools were located in the interiors and difficult to find. Our phone networks too gave up and when we thought how we would find the schools, we fortunately found the principal and we followed him to the schools,” shared a volunteer. The distribution was held in an organised manner, and the children queued up with the utmost discipline. But that’s about it! The joy and happiness could not be contained, and there was a wonderful display of their excitement! “The children were so happy; we cannot put it in words. We actually felt their joy and relived our childhood and remembered how small things can bring joy! They immediately opened their pouches and began comparing with their friends,” added the volunteer. Primary and Secondary students received different sets. Primary children were given five pencils, one eraser, one sharpener, and one ruler with a pouch, and Secondary children were given four pens, one pencil, one eraser, one sharpener, and one ruler with a pouch. The stationery kits, including the pouch, cost INR 50 each. Soon, the volunteers wrapped up the distribution and returned to the Mission with empty vans that were now filled with the happiness and joy of the little ones on the one hand, and the hope of small savings started in the purse of a skilled sister on the other hand. A good bargain indeed!

“Peace does not dwell in the Himalayas. It is here and now in your attitude of gratitude.” – Dada JP Vaswani 18th – 24th February 2023, Sadhu Vaswani Mission celebrated Thanksgiving Week. Extensive service activities, daily satsangs, recorded discourses by Sadhu Vaswani and Revered Dada Vaswani, including guided meditation and Q&A and live talks by Didi Krishna Kumari, marked the celebrations. The Thanksgiving Week’s weeklong programmes included havans and featured Shiv kirtan, recitation of Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, Hanuman Chalisa, and Sri Japji Sahib. Bridge Builders, the youth wing of the Mission, organised a soulful session featuring an insightful skit on levelling up our thinking. Sadhu Vaswani and Dada J.P. Vaswani’s recorded talks were played. Didi Krishna held an insightful talk that was broadcast live to devotees across the globe. One of the attendees, Sugra Lakhani, said, “The Thanksgiving Week infuses immense positive energy in us. It makes us realize that being grateful can help us lead a life of peace and happiness. God has blessed us with the best of everything. Words are not sufficient to sing His glories, but we can surely express our feelings by thanking Him with every breath.” Another attendee, Pushpa Shivdasani, added, “Being grateful helps change the mindset. Thanksgiving Week acts as a reminder to be grateful for God’s bounties. It reinforces in our minds that an attitude of gratitude is the right way to live.” Throughout Thanksgiving Week, the Mission carried out extensive service activities. On 18th February, the Mission organized seva for the blind and distributed sarees to 50 visually-impaired women and shirts to 120 visually-impaired men. Additionally, apples, potato wafers and frooti was also given to them. In another round of sevas for the blind, the Mission volunteers visited Patashibai Ratanchand Manav Kalyan Trust, Bhosari and distributed apples, potato wafers, and frooti to 75 visually-impaired children. On 19th February, the Mission distributed joy packets which included chikkis, 100gms dates, chiwda, and chocolates to 140 children in the slums of Manjri and Hadapsar. On 20th February, the Mission distributed clothes which included t-shirts and jeans and joy packets to 250 children of construction labourers at Dudulgaon, Mulshi and Pimple Saudagar. On 21st February, the Mission distributed ration kits and cash to class IV employees of the Mission. Each ration kit consisted of 10kgs rice, 2kgs sugar, 1/4 kg tea, 1 kg tur dal, 1 kg moong dal, and 1-litre oil. On 22nd February, the Mission distributed clothes which included t-shirts and jeans and joy packets to 197 children of construction labourers at Kharadi, Wagholi, and Viman Nagar. On 23rd February, the Mission distributed chikkis clothes – leggings and jeans – to 332 poor girls at St. Hildas Girls High School at Sadhashiv Peth. On another visit, the Mission distributed chikkis and clothes to 333 children at Nutan Bal Vikas School at Sadashiv Peth. The distribution comprised an alternate of jeans and t-shirts, towels/napkins, leggings, tops and jeans, as per the needs of the children. Another round of sevas for blind children at Patashibai Ratanchand Manav Kalyan Trust, Bhosari was organized where 75 visually-impaired children were given joy packets which included a towel, napkins, biscuits, chikkis, chiwda and chocolates. On 24th February, the Mission distributed joy packets, including biscuits, chikkis, chiwda, chocolates, and clothes – 2 shirts to 162 poor children at Pune Vidyarthi Gruha at Sadashiv Peth. Every day, hospital sevas in the general ward at Inlaks & Budhrani Hospital, KK Eye Hospital, and Fabiani and Budhrani Hospital were carried out. Each day, the Mission distributed apples to 250 patients. A total of 1750 patients received apples during the entire week. Sadhu Vaswani Healthcare Institutes, including Shanti Clinic, Inlaks & Budhrani Hospital, and Fabiani & Budhrani Hospital, conducted medical sevas where free/concessional treatment was provided to needy patients. Thanksgiving Week was observed by Sadhu Vaswani Centers, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and New Jersey, among others, by carrying out extensive service activities and satsangs. About Thanksgiving Week: Thanksgiving Week is observed in gratitude to God, celebrating the homecoming of Revered Dada J.P. Vaswani from a successful quadruple bypass surgery he underwent at the Washington Medical Center, the USA, in 1998. Since then, each year, the Mission, during Thanksgiving Week aids the economically weaker section of society that suffers from curable heart ailments but loses life for want of treatment and lack of money. In keeping with Dada’s ideals, special service programmes, prayers and events are also conducted. Related Link: Thanksgiving Week Sevas - https://youtube.com/shorts/0NsoqEZp-xU

5th February 2023, Didi Krishna delivered the keynote address at a special function organized by Freedom From Diabetes (FFD) to mark its 10th anniversary. Speaking at the event, Didi Krishna said, “We consider health and happiness as twin goals of our life. Many of us believe that if we are healthy, we are happy, but we fail to realize that if we are happy, we automatically become healthy. Happiness generates health, and true happiness comes when we forget our pains, help others, and become helpers of humanity.” Didi Krishna also shared the four secrets to well-being: mindfulness, gratitude as being the biggest immunity booster, understanding the power of breathing, and engaging in the service of humanity. Emphasizing the importance of gratitude, she said, “See the good, life will take a different turn. I remember there was a conference of health specialists, and they asked Dada, “What should we do? What is the one prescription we should give all patients?” and Dada said, “the prescription is in four words: ‘Stop Complaining and Start Thanking’.” Complaining has become a part of our nature. Despite having the best of everything, we find something missing. Let us ‘Stop Complaining and Start Thanking’. It has been scientifically proven that ‘grateful hearts heal faster’. Grateful hearts radiate those vibrations that help people who surround them heal too. The founder of FFD, Dr PramodTripathi, also spoke of his vision for the initiative. The event was held to a packed audience at the MCCIA Trade Tower, Pune.

16th & 17th January 2023 marked the 57th Mahayagna (Anniversary) of Sadhu Vaswani. In observance, Sadhu Vaswani Mission held satsangs with recorded talks of Sadhu Vaswani and Dada J.P. Vaswani and live talks of Didi Krishna Kumari, and extensive service activities. On 16th January, 2023, the Mission organised a ‘prabhat pheri’ – sacred morning procession where Didi Krishna and devotees sang along the Name of God along the lanes and by-lanes of Pune. Chants of Hare Krishna Hare Ram Dada Shyam echoed aloud. This was followed by a havan and recorded discourse by Sadhu Vaswani. A satsang followed by a defined silence commemorated the passing away time - 8:22 am - of Sadhu Vaswani at the Sacred Kutiya. In the afternoon session, bhajans and kirtans in remembrance of the guru were sung. In the evening session, the satsang featured recorded talks of Sadhu Vaswani and Dada J.P. Vaswani. Later, a vigil session of bhajans and kirtans was held till midnight. 17th January, the day when the last rite of Sadhu Vaswani’s physical body was performed, was observed by a morning session of havan, satsang and talk by Didi Krishna. In her message, she narrated a beautiful incident from the Mahayagna day when Dada J.P. Vaswani was offered flowers and he spoke of the lotus of the heart. Quoting him she said, “The external flowers are beautiful but they fade away. But there is one flower, within your heart that is ever-blooming and ever-fragrant. The Mahayagna of saints brings the message to behold the vision of this flower within. To do this, one must connect with God and chant the Name Divine. Therefore, turn within.” One of the attendees, Naina Motwani said, “Sadhu Vaswani is my all. Today’s message of Didi further strengthens my feeling where I feel him within me. He is my lifeboat.” Another added, “My association with him spans generations but my personal calling with him is that of love. I take home today the message of ‘turn within’.” Guru Langar (fellowship meals) was offered to everyone in the afternoon session. One of the attendees, Hiru Wadhwa, coming from New Jersey and also partaking in the Guru Langar said, “I have never met Sadhu Vaswani physically but his recorded talks draw me to him. Attending the event and taking the langar is a blessing.” The time when the last rites of Sadhu Vaswani's body was performed was observed in silence with a recorded prayer by Dada J.P. Vaswani. This was followed by a Deepak Yatra where devotees lit lamps at the Sadhu Vaswani Chowk. In the evening session, a recorded talk of Sadhu Vaswani was played followed by ‘scenes from the life of Sadhu Vaswani’. Major sessions of the programme were broadcast live on the official YouTube Channel of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission. After all pandemic restrictions were lifted, devotees from across the world converged at the Sadhu Vaswani Mission to observe the 57th Mahayagna. Sadhu Vaswani often said, "Give up thy rosary and the temple-bells. Go to the broken cottages of the poor, and there greet the Beloved!" Service activities were a central part of the observance. The Mahayagna seva activities included the distribution of ration kits to 140 needy families in Pune, Pimpri, and Daund. Fruit distribution seva for 280 patients on the 16th and 17th each at Mission’s healthcare institute was also carried out. Clothes distribution seva for children at 4 Zilla Parishad schools in Bibewadi was conducted. Sarees were distributed among 50 transgenders. Medical sevas were conducted at healthcare institutions of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission on the 16th and 17th of January, 2023. As a part of the Mahayagna, Sadhu Vaswani’s educational institutions also held several programmes and service activities. Sadhu Vaswani Centers worldwide also organised extensive sevas and programmes to mark the 57th Mahayagna.