Swami Ji

How can I ever describe to you the phenomena that is called Swami Ji?

I simple Hindu monk, maybe but this man works tirelessly to uncover corruption, strives for social justice, educates young men and keeps them on an ethical path, cleans up the environment, and is trying to save the Bodhi tree from neglect and disease as well as having it’s limbs being cut off and sold. Name a political issue and he will be “hammering” on some politician’s head to get improvements done and changes made. You can often find Swam Ji at the chai stall under the tree across from the main temple, on his cell phone or computer, sipping tea or smoking a beedie but always in deep in conversation with someone about the latest issue.

Originally from Bengal , Swami Ji lived in a monastic ashram in Gaya or some time but decided to leave the ashram and do his own practice of being a wandering monk. He had a ticket for the train that night but had a few hours before the train left so walked to Bodhgaya

He came to say goodbye and pay his respects to the Bodhi tree. In front of the tree he found himself crying and was comforted by western women who had once herself been a Hindu nun. They talked and after some time she took him for a meal. He never left on the train that night but rather has found his calling and has now been in Bodhgaya for 5years. He says he was put here to uncover and bring attention to issues of corruption and social injustice in this holiest of Buddhist places. Swami Ji rustles the feathers of many people in town and in the state capital Patna. Many people do not like his blunt in your face style but he has brought attention to many issues and people are changing or at least being kept in check by his presence. A real dedicated man, of action, a simple monk and force to be reckoned with.

You can join his face book page at the Holy Mahabodhi Tree for updates on the tree