The Guru Maharaj
In Hindu philosophy, the role of the Guru is supreme. The one who leads you to enlightenment, guides you, elevates you. The Guru Paduka Stotram defines the Guru as one who protects you in this river of life from the hungry crocodiles out to devour you.Truly. I have had many Gurus over the ages, in personal and professional life. Guru- the benign guide Well, there was AS “ Maharaj” ( " saint" in the terminology of the hospital) during my MBBS internship days at Kolkata. Ever benevolent, gleaming bald pate, always ready with his toffee for you (he had a bunch of these ready at all times) ,and on special occasions, a rasagulla or two. He would hand these out to everyone, probably feeling that he was blessing them. He loved cracking jokes that made no sense (in other words, PJs). And he would be the only one laughing at these jokes. The comical, rotund Maharaj reminded me of an oversized teddy bear whom no one took seriously. He was a...