In the spiritual world, Swami Kailashanand Giri is known as a prominent saint. He is considered a devotee of Shiva and has consistently strived to connect society with the true essence of religion and devotion. Recently, he discussed the three main ways of worshiping God, explaining which path allows a seeker to connect with the divine more easily.
The Purpose of Worship is Inner Purification, Not Just Show
Swami Kailashanand Giri believes that worshiping God should not be limited to following traditions. It is a spiritual process that infuses energy within a person and connects them to God. He said that the primary purpose of worship is the purification of the soul and the expansion of consciousness, not just chanting mantras or lighting lamps for show.
Bhakti Marg (Path of Devotion) Described as the Most Difficult, Yet Most Fulfilling
Swami Kailashanand Giri first explained the 'Bhakti Marg' or the path of devotion. He stated that devotion is not merely singing mantras and hymns but should involve a feeling of complete surrender. True devotion is when a person, leaving behind their ego, meditates on God with humility and a spirit of service.
He said, "The path of devotion is difficult because it is not enough to just love God; one must see God in every living being. Service to living beings is service to Narayana (God). Feeding the hungry, helping the distressed – all these actions are parts of devotion to God."
Gyan Marg (Path of Knowledge): The Path to Self-Realization
The second path is 'Gyan Marg' – According to Swami Kailashanand Giri, this path is for those seekers who are interested in deep contemplation and self-analysis. In the path of knowledge, a person tries to know themselves – 'Who am I, where did I come from, and what is the purpose of this life?'
This path is one of solitude, silence, and constant reflection. It emphasizes the study of scriptures, service to gurus, and self-contemplation. He said, "The person who walks this path gradually rises above worldly attachments and becomes absorbed in the search for the soul."
Karmakanda Marg (Path of Rituals): Considering Action as Worship
Swami Kailashanand Giri described the third path, 'Karmakanda Marg,' as a simple but effective means of spiritual practice. He clarified that this path is not limited to just worship rituals but emphasizes doing every action with a sense of dedication to God.
The 'Nishkam Karma Yoga' mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita is the essence of this path. That is, a person should fulfill their duties with complete dedication and honesty, but without worrying about the fruits of their actions.
He said, "The path of action is open to all. When a farmer works hard in the field, when a teacher teaches children, when a doctor treats a patient, if all these people do their work considering it as service to God, that becomes their worship."
Which is the Simplest Path? Know Swami Kailashanand's Answer
When Swami Kailashanand Giri was asked which of these three paths is the simplest, he said that Karmakanda or Karma Yoga is the most accessible and possible for everyone because every person, regardless of their background, can fulfill their duties.
According to him, "A person who performs actions remains connected to God in every situation. They do not need any special method or knowledge. Only dedication, honesty, and a spirit of service are necessary."
True Feeling is Necessary for Connection with God
Swami Kailashanand Giri emphasized that whichever path is chosen, it should have truthfulness, purity, and genuine feeling. There is no fixed rule for worship, but the feeling should be pure. He said, "God does not need external objects; He needs your mind and feeling. If the mind is pure and the faith is deep, any path can be successful."
Society Received a New Perspective
Swami Kailashanand Giri's explanation has made different sections of society think that worship is not limited to just going to temples or fasting. It is a way of living that is connected to your actions, your thoughts, and your behavior.
After this discussion, debates about devotion and Karma Yoga have intensified on many religious platforms. People want to know whether it is enough to just go to the temple and worship, or whether dedicating every moment of life to God is the real spiritual practice.
A Path for Everyone
Swami Kailashanand Giri's words also make it clear that even though every person has a different nature, there is some path available for them to reach God. Someone through knowledge, someone through service, someone through devotion – every path can take a person closer to God.
