Mangarh (Pratapgarh): The 104th birth anniversary of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj was celebrated at Bhakti Mandir in Shri Kripalu Dham, Mangarh, on October 25. Observed annually on Sharad Purnima as per the Hindu lunar calendar, the event was organised by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP) and drew devotees from across the country for religious ceremonies, devotional singing and cultural performances.
The programme also included abhishek rituals, chappan bhog (an offering of 56 food items), kirtans and devotional processions accompanied by dhol beats. The anniversary observance forms part of JKP’s annual Sharad Purnima Sadhana Shivir, being held at Shri Kripalu Dham from October 20 to November 24. The 36-day spiritual retreat includes collective prayers, devotional meditation, congregational chanting and screenings of Kripalu Ji Maharaj’s recorded discourses. Born in Mangarh on Sharad Purnima in 1922, Kripalu Ji Maharaj delivered extensive discourses on Hindu scriptures and the bhakti tradition. In January 1957, the Kashi Vidvat Parishad, comprising 500 scholars, conferred upon him the title of Jagadguru at the age of 34. The Mangarh hospital was established in 2003, followed by facilities in Barsana in 2007 and Vrindavan in 2015. Bhakti Mandir, inaugurated in 2005, is situated in Mangarh near Prayagraj.
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These hospitals offer free consultations, diagnostics, treatment and medicines, according to the organisation. A highlight of the celebrations was a Maharaas Leela depicting the divine pastimes of Radha and Krishna. Artists presented episodes from the Radha-Krishna tradition through music and dance, while devotees participated in a grand Maha Aarti and illuminated the temple complex with thousands of diyas. Followers paid tribute to Kripalu Ji Maharaj, and the celebrations were streamed live on JKP’s digital platforms for devotees unable to attend in person. His teachings emphasised devotion to Radha and Krishna, the importance of the guru in spiritual life, and the distinction between material success and lasting spiritual fulfilment. Devotional singing and meditation remained central to his spiritual philosophy. Founded by Kripalu Ji Maharaj, JKP undertakes a range of religious, educational and charitable initiatives. Alongside organising spiritual programmes, it operates healthcare and educational institutions and provides support to underprivileged communities. JKP runs three charitable hospitals under the banner of Jagadguru Kripalu Chikitsalaya in Mangarh, Barsana and Vrindavan. The organisation also conducts eye-care services and cataract surgery camps. In Kunda, Pratapgarh district, JKP manages educational institutions that provide free education to girls from primary level to postgraduate studies. These include Kripalu Balika Primary School, Kripalu Balika Intermediate College and Kripalu Mahila Mahavidyalaya. Educational materials, uniforms and other support are also provided to students from economically weaker families. The organisation’s charitable activities further include the distribution of blankets, winter clothing, school supplies and household essentials. These initiatives continue alongside its year-round religious gatherings and spiritual camps. Along with Prem Mandir in Vrindavan and Kirti Mandir in Barsana, it is among the principal temples associated with JKP. As the birthplace of Kripalu Ji Maharaj, Mangarh continues to serve as the focal point for the organisation’s annual birth anniversary celebrations and devotional gatherings. Download the TOI App.