Gudhi Padwa (19th March 2026)

Eternal Transformation !

Gudhi Padwa is the beginning of the Hindu New Year. It signifies discarding the old and embracing the new. From the day of Gudhi Padwa, new Creation begins in the Universe. So, transformation will commence once again. Transformation is the very rule of Creation.

Nature has six seasons. After each season, another follows – this too is transformation. After sunrise, the Sun reaches its zenith at noon, then sets in the evening and night begins. Change takes place throughout the day. Just as transformation takes place in Creation, so too it happens in individuals, society, culture and the Nation over time. Such a change may be termed good or adverse transformation. For example, due to global warming, the changes taking place in the environment have begun to contribute to the destruction of the Earth, and consequently the Creation itself. No one can deny this. Countries across the world, including India, are striving in their own ways to prevent global warming.

Transformation also takes place in individuals. Changes take place according to age – childhood, adolescence, youth, householder stage and old age. In society, various events cause change, with Time being the most significant factor. For example, a thousand years ago, before the invasions of the Muslim aggressors and the British, India was the Vishwa Guru (Spiritual guide of the world). India’s share of global income was 28%. A refined and prosperous culture flourished here. The ancient monuments and temples of India testify to this greatness. However, after a thousand years, when we reflect today, we realise that much of it has been lost. From the spiritual perspective, this can only be described as the glory (or influence) of Time. This cycle of Time must be understood.

According to Hindu Scriptures, there are four Yugs (Eras) – Satyayug, Tretayug, Dwaparyug and the present Kaliyug. The condition of people and society differs in each Yug, as described in the Puranas. Within each Yug, smaller cycles of the four Yugs also operate. This cyclic change can be called evolution. During this evolution there is deep transformation at all levels – governance, administration, education, trade and more.

In the earlier times, governance was Dharma-based, now secularism is prevalent. Previously, natural farming was practised, today chemical fertilisers are used. After recognising their harmful effects, society is again turning to natural farming. In the past, India had the Gurukul system of education, today we see an education system that produces clerks. Such transformation in society continues uninterrupted.

Observing all this, it becomes necessary for a human being to bring about transformation within the self. The purpose of human birth is to reunite with the Divine from whom we have originated, that is, to attain spiritual upliftment and transform oneself into Chaitanya (Divine consciousness). By doing so, the individual soul attains spiritual upliftment.

To bring about this eternal transformation in our lives, we must perform spiritual practice, all other transformation is temporary. This knowledge must sink within us. When such transformation takes place in an individual, it reflects on society, culture and the Nation; and that state (of society) in a way, becomes a form of Satyayug.

As per the significance of Times and as stated by many visionary Saints, a phase of Satyayug within Kaliyug itself will emerge once again. This transformation is destined to take place. In this phase of Satyayug, India will once again be established as the Vishwa Guru.

– Mr Prashant Koyande (Sanatan Ashram, Ramnathi, Goa)

As per the significance of Times and as stated by Saints, a phase of Satyayug within Kaliyug itself will emerge once again !