Spiritual guidance for women: Sanatan Sanstha’s Sadgurus address Nari Shakti Sammelan in Raipur

A ‘Nari Shakti Sammelan’ was organised by Shadani Darbar in Raipur (Chhattisgarh) on 20^th July 2026 to commemorate the 200^th Birth Anniversary of Pujya Mata Sahib Hasi Devi ji. Shrisatshakti (Smt.) Binda Nilesh Singbal and Shrisatshakti (Smt.) Anjali Mukul Gadgil (The two Spiritual Heirs of Sachchidananda Parabrahman Dr Athavale [Founder of Sanatan Sanstha]), guided the attendees in this Sammelan. Highlights from their speeches are reproduced here.

The importance of following stree dharma and practising spirituality in Bharatiya culture! – Shrisatshakti (Smt.) Binda Nilesh Singbal

I pay my humble obeisance at the Holy Feet of Bhagavan Shri Krishna, the Guru Parampara of Shadani Darbar, and Sachchidananda Parabrahman Dr Jayant Athavale. Today, while remembering Pujya Mata Sahib Hasi Devi ji, let us reflect on the true nature of ‘Nari Shakti’ in Bharatiya culture and our duties in present times.

1. What is Stree Dharma?

In our Bharatiya culture, a woman is considered an embodiment of ‘Grihalakshmi’ and ‘Shakti’. Stree Dharma does not simply mean ‘doing household chores’; rather, it means ‘guiding the entire family on the path of Dharma through own conduct, sacrifice, and Sanskars’. A woman is the very foundation of the family institution. A man builds a house, but a woman turns it into a ‘temple’ through her Chaitanya (Divine Consciousness) and devotion. Let us understand a few simple and practical examples of Stree Dharma.

A. Cultivating a sattvik daily routine

Rising early in the morning to clean the home, light a lamp, and purify the household atmosphere.

B. Cooking with bhav

Chanting God’s name while preparing meals. When a mother cooks with continuous chanting, the meal transforms from simple food into Prasad, imbuing her children’s minds with Sattvik thoughts.

C. Imparting sanskars

Going beyond mere material education by deeply connecting children with Hindu traditions, the lives of Saints, and the priceless teachings of ‘Shadani Darbar’.

The sanskars of Rajmata Jijau: An ideal for nari shakti

We have all heard the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who established Hindavi Swarajya during tumultuous times. Yet, who shaped him into ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’? It was his mother, Rajmata Jijau!

When Shivaji Maharaj was young, Jijamata did not merely sing lullabies to him; she shared tales of valour from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and stories of legendary heroes. She did not simply shower her son with affection—she placed the sword in his hands during his childhood for the protection of Dharma. Today, like Jijamata, we must become the ‘first Guru’ to our children, instilling within them the Sanskars of Dharma and valour.

2. The spiritual importance of applying kumkum and wearing ornaments

In today’s blind pursuit of modernity, many Hindu women hesitate to apply kumkum (or vermilion) to their foreheads or wear traditional jewellery. According to spiritual research conducted by Sanatan Sanstha, these traditional adornments are far more than aesthetic embellishments, they act as a woman’s ‘spiritual protective armour’.

A. Applying kumkum

The Adnya chakra is situated at the centre of the forehead. Applying pure kumkum to this point enhances concentration, attracts sattvik vibrations, and awakens a woman’s inner energy (Durga-tattva), shielding her from negative energy.

B. Gold and silver ornaments

Gold and silver are not merely metals. According to Sanatan Dharma, gold ornaments bestow Tej-tattva (Radiance Principle) and Chaitanya. Jewellery such as the Mangalsutra, bangles, and anklets form a protective shield around the body, preventing distressing environmental energies from affecting a woman.

Therefore, dear sisters, wear your traditional adornments with pride, they represent both your identity and your spiritual strength.

3. The importance of the Kuldevata and chanting Her Name

Shadani Darbar is a revered spiritual seat where we continuously receive the invaluable Chaitanya of Sant Shadaram Sahibji’s divine Guru lineage, with Bhagavan Jhulelal as our Ishtadev (Deity of worship). Alongside their grace, another power plays a vital role in personal spiritual progress and family protection: our Kuldevi or Kuldevata (Family Deity).

Just as a tree requires water at its roots to thrive, our Kuldevi forms the root of our family lineage. Whenever a practical or spiritual crisis arises, our Kuldevi is the first to step forward in our defence, creating a protective shield around the household. Consequently, every family member, especially women, should chant the name of their Kuldevata for at least 1 to 2 hours daily (for example, ‘Shri Kuladevatayai Namaha’, or according to your family’s custom).

4. Measures to protect daughters from ‘love jihad’

Today, many Hindu girls are targeted through calculated deceptive relationships known as ‘love jihad’. Lacking awareness of Hindu culture, innocent girls fall prey to predators who conceal their true identities, often leading to tragic outcomes. To protect our daughters, we must become vigilant mothers.

A. Build strong friendships with your daughters

Foster open communication so your daughters feel comfortable sharing their daily lives without fear. If they make a mistake, guide them with love and patience rather than anger.

B. Impart dharma-shikshan

A young woman who understands her Hindu Dharma, honours her history, and takes pride in her culture is far less susceptible to deception. Share stories of our historical heroes and heroines from an early age.

C. Maintain vigilance

Parents should responsibly monitor their daughters’ mobile devices, social media activity, and social circles. This is not spying; it is a vital parental duty for their safety.

D. Provide self-defence training:

Encourage girls to be fearless like Rani Lakshmibai rather than a delicate maiden. Ensure they receive practical self-defence training.

5. An appeal for Dharma-shikshan

We are living through a challenging period marked by rising societal tension and Adharma (unrighteousness). To safeguard Hindu culture, we must first educate ourselves in Dharma (Dharma-shikshita). Without understanding the spiritual and practical importance of Hindu Dharma, we cannot pass these values on to the next generation.

To address this, Sanatan Sanstha regularly conducts online and in-person Satsangs offering simple guidance on Sadhana and spirituality. Additionally, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti holds special Dharma-shikshan classes for women and young girls, focusing on practical Dharmik living, awareness regarding threats like love jihad, and self-defence techniques. I humbly appeal to all mothers and sisters to educate themselves in Dharma so we can build a strong, resilient Hindu society together.

— Shrisatshakti (Smt.) Binda Nilesh Singbal, Sanatan Sanstha

Awaken the Durga-tattva within yourself through Dharmacharan and Sadhana! – Shrichitshakti (Smt.) Anjali Mukul Gadgil

My deepest obeisances to the sacred land of Shadani Darbar, and my humble salutations at the holy feet of the 9th Peethadhishwar, Param Pujya Dr Yudhishthirlal Maharaj! Revered Mata Sahib Hasidevijii represents a profound confluence of devotion, service, and Nari Shakti. The simple remembrance of Her name fills the mind with Divine energy.

In Bharatiya culture, a woman has never been viewed as abala (helpless) or weak; she is the direct manifestation of Shakti. Today, we gather to reawaken that Durga-shakti and inner strength within ourselves.

1. Nari shakti and the importance of sadhana

Every woman carries an inherent power within her heart that mirrors Goddess Durga (the Sustainer of the Universe). However, realizing this power requires the practice of Sadhana—the purification of the mind, intellect, and body. Through Sadhana, we can naturally impart noble Sanskars to our children.

2. Continuous namjap and true beauty

The Namjap (chanting of God’s name) imparted by one’s Guru or spiritual lineage should be practised continuously. This cleanses the body, awakens the inner Nari-tattva (womanly principle), and creates a Divine radiance. Modern cosmetics last only a few hours, but the aura developed through Sadhana is a lasting, divine beauty.

3. The importance of sattvik kumkum

Applying natural Sattvik Kumkum made from turmeric (where turmeric represents Prithvi-tattva [Earth Principle] and Kumkum represents Tej-tattva [Radiance Principle]) maintains a radiant appearance throughout the day. Apply Sattvik Kumkum to experience this Divine principle directly.

4. Harmful effects of leaving hair loose or cutting it

Leaving hair loose dissipates a woman’s energy, rendering her more susceptible to negative environmental influences. Traditionally, women tied their hair in a neat bun (Juda) to preserve their vitality. Women are also encouraged not to cut their hair, as doing so allows distressing vibrations to enter the body more easily.

5. Traditional attire

A saree projects a far more Sattvik aura than western attire like trousers and shirts. In traditional dress, a woman embodies divine grace, commanding respect and deterring negative influences. We must pass these values of Chaitanya down to our children.

6. Wearing sacred ornaments

Avoid wearing oxidised (black metal) bangles, as they emit negative vibrations.

Sanatan Sanstha has published 371 texts covering hair styling, attire, the science of ornaments, and Achardharma (righteous conduct). I encourage you to read these publications to understand the underlying principles and put them into practice.

7. Awakening the Durga-tattva

Every woman should commit to continuous Sadhana to purify her mind and intellect, enhancing her spiritual radiance. This allows the Durga-tattva within her to manifest, overcome negative influences, and contribute to establishing a righteous society (Hindu Rashtra). Let us resolve today to practise Sadhana, follow Dharma, and awaken the Durga-tattva within us.

— Shrichitshakti (Smt.) Anjali Mukul Gadgil, Sanatan Sanstha