Remembering the Shankaracharya

Swaha celebrates its 20^th anniversary this year. Over these years, it has established institutions throughout the country and continues to serve as a moral compass to both Hindus and non-Hindus alike. Like human beings, organizations are possessed of identifiable characteristics, invariably initially imparted to it by the Founding Leader. In the case of Swaha Inc. it was H.H. Shankaracharya Pandit Hari Prasad.

Belonging to an unbroken line of Pandits and a tradition of integrity, scholarship and devotion, Shankaracharya-ji was a towering figure. He was even more unique in that there was never any daylight between his words and his actions! If only leaders, both religious and secular, were of a similar mould, this country and indeed the world would be the better off for it.

For more than half of a century, Pandit Hari Prasad-ji provided counselling and spiritual guidance to tens of thousands of persons of all ethnicities, religious traditions and walks of life. In a deeply divisive society he was a unifying force.

Shankaracharya-ji accomplished what was thought to be an impossibility; the birth and sustained growth of a credible and alternative Hindu organization; a rejuvenation force to dispel the shackles of inertia and despair that had the Hindus in a moribund state. His success was so great that it not only was the catalyst for the new vibrancy of the Hindu community here but also significantly impacted on the Diaspora.

The sustainability of Swaha Inc. was close to his heart and in this regard, he ensured that proper leadership succession planning was instituted, which allowed for the smooth transition that took place upon his attaining Samadhi.

The Dharma Mandal joins with the national executive and executives and members of the various institutions of Swaha Inc. in recording our deep appreciation and gratitude to H.H. Shankaracharya Pandit Hari Prasad and say with joy and pride:

Shankaracharya-ji ki jai.

By Prof. Pt. Prakash Persad