The Mystery of Faith Series: When a Ruler and a British Official met a Saint.

Of Mystics, Ancient, Pre-modern and Modern Beliefs.

Uttarakhand, India. Photo Credit: Raj Dhiman, Unsplash.

Note: Reader discretion is advised as this post discusses matters of faith and an act of suicide. This is a lengthy and detailed exploration that aims to illustrate, through the life of a specific saint, as well as pre-modern and modern anecdotes, the reality of various mythological stories, real-life practices, beliefs, and rituals that have a life of their own in modern India.

“One of the most striking aspects of the roots of this land lies in spirituality and faith. It runs like a river through the vastness of the region, undeterred by any obstacle, barrier, or passage of time, carrying with it tales of magic, belief, faith, unwavering intent, and miracles.”

My introduction to this new series.

What if I told you about a saint, born in 1595, who is believed to be still alive today?

What if I revealed that one of the most renowned miracles he performed was witnessed not by a Hindu, but by the Muslim ruler of the region?

And what if I said that a British administrator of Scottish origin, reportedly met and conversed with this saint in the 1800s, despite the saint having entered Samadhi in 1671?

What if I shared that in his final discourse, the saint cautioned his devotees that 'without right knowledge, miracles serve no purpose'?

What if I said there is documentary evidence showing the outcome of the strange events of the past?

What if I told you that even today, people report their lives being significantly changed due to the intervention of this saint?

What if ….

Would you believe these incidents happened?

Or would your mind still seek explanations, attributing them to coincidence, mistaken data, religious fervor, or simply dismissing them as superstition from those less scientifically minded? Would you continue to seek further proof?

“Belief creates the fact.”

William James, father of American Psychology, (1842 – 1910).

Upgrade to read the six-thousand word article that takes you on an immersive journey through the captivating life of a revered saint, mixed with ancient mythologies and modern-day miracles with extensive footnotes. Uncover the hidden truths behind age-old rituals, beliefs, and practices that continue to shape the cultural fabric of modern India.