At the closure of the academic year 2024-25, Suhradam House presented an inspiring story unfolding – the journey of Dr. Mehulbhai Patel, a young student whose unwavering faith and perseverance led him to become a gold medallist in MD Cardiology through a small skit.

The scene opened with a group of friends performing yoga in the garden. One friend, lost in thoughts about his life’s challenges, was advised to seek solutions through AI-artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT by his friends. However, this raised another dilemma – how to choose the best solution from countless options that such tools provide. Then one of his wise friends, Aksharbhai, introduced a different perspective to seek solutions, “Spiritual Intelligence”- which can be cultivated through prayer, faith, and the guidance of saints. Emphasizing this idea, he shared a quote of wisdom share by His Divine Holiness Hariprasad Swamiji: જિંદગી આનંદ માટે છે.

True joy in life comes from the guidance of saints and their unique spiritual perspective on problems. To bring this idea to life, he then shared the real-life journey of Dr. Mehulbhai Patel.

Mehulbhai, an ambitious student from Mumbai had scored an impressive 93% in his 12th Science board exams hoping to secure admission to Somaiya Medical College. However, all seats were filled. Disheartened but not defeated, he sought advice from his spiritual guide, Pujya Bhakti Swami who then prayed to Swamishree and gained Hiss blessings on behalf of Mehulbhai. He conveyed, “Not to worry, you will get admission. Keep trying and also keep doing bhajan.” Bhakti Swamiji emphasized to Mehulbhai that “Swamishree is always with us, so keep faith”. Encouraged by these words, Mehulbhai remained steadfast in his belief. True to Swamishree’s words, a seat opened up, and Mehulbhai was accepted!

But all was not over yet. Another greater challenge awaited him after he completed his MBBS, when he was pursuing his MD in Chennai. Mehulbhai was truly a brilliant student. While many admired his talent, there were others who were jealous and felt inferior. The college principal himself was one of the latter ones who, influenced by his ego, threatened Mehulbhai that he will not allow him to pass. So, he set a difficult viva exam to test his capability by using his connections with the esteemed viva panellists. With anxiety creeping in, Mehulbhai once again turned to his spiritual guide, Pujya Bhakti Swami. Bhakti Swamiji then prayed for this situation to Swamishree and this time around Swamishree gave darshan and blessings to Mehulbhai on phone and calmed his worries. In addition, He advised him to chant, “Bolya Shree Hari…” reminding him of a powerful verse from it: જીવ ઈશ્ર્વર તણો રે, માયા, કાળ, પુરુષ, પ્રધાન, સહુને વશ કરું રે, સહુનો પ્રેરક હું ભગવાન. Swamishree further raised Mehulbhai’s self-confidence by asking him to tell the principal, “In the vast universe, only God’s will prevails and, with His grace, I will bring honour to your college.”

Empowered by Swamishree’s blessings, Mehulbhai walked into his viva room with absolute confidence. Despite facing some of the toughest questions for many hours, he answered fluently, impressing all the revered panellists. The result? He not only passed but secured the first rank in the nation, earning a gold medal in MD Cardiology.

Overjoyed, Mehulbhai shared the news with Swamishree, who blessed him and imparted three invaluable lessons:

  1. Always maintain unwavering faith in God.
  2. Stay in the company of saints.
  3. Attend weekly spiritual gatherings.

As Aksharbhai finished the story, his friends realized something profound – AI can surely provide knowledge, and infinite solutions to choose from. But which to choose and which will really work for us? These questions only put us into more confusion and aggravate our problems. It cannot bring true inner peace and happiness. Then Aksharbhai concluded that AI is a good tool to solve external problems, but cannot change what is inside us. Thus, we need to resort to SI-Spiritual Intelligence i.e., seeking God’s strength every moment by remembering God. Aksharbhai also emphasised that true Spiritual Intelligence is realised when we try to seek God’s strength at all times and not just in the time of adversities. Their conversation concluded with the wisdom of Sant Kabir:

छिन छिन पल पल लेहु संभारि । स्मरण हारे रहे निहारि ॥

“To remember Him in every moment, every instant. Because those who do so, are always under His watchful protection.”

Mehulbhai’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that faith, perseverance, and divine guidance can help overcome even the toughest obstacles in life.

The assembly concluded on a high note as students from Grades 1 to 7 took to stage with an energetic and captivating dance performance on the devotional song, “भले हो काल की काली रात, प्रभु बल का सूरज है साथ…”. Their unwavering spirit, synchronized movements, and the meaningful lyrics of the bhajan beautifully reinforced the theme of faith and perseverance. The performance not only entertained the audience but also left a lasting impact, reminding everyone that true wisdom and inner strength come from devotion, determination, and unwavering belief in the almighty God.

Who can defeat you when GOD is your Saviour!!!

Rashmi Ma’am