Chiranjeevi Acharya
What do we call a deity in this modern world? Perhaps a personality with a distinct aura capable of capturing the attention of the entire cosmos, or an energy flowing throughout the ecosystem, purifying vibrations wherever it reaches. The idea of a supreme energy—a transcendental fountainhead—taking human form has been narrated across civilizations. Yet, such stories are often dismissed as myths, given the same treatment as fantasy novels.
Despite this skepticism, religious philosophies and modern science alike continue the quest for answers to profound mysteries: Where does life truly come from? Where does it go after death? Such questions compel us to consider the existence of a supreme intelligence—an ultimate “God particle”—which not only surpasses human understanding but may well be the very source of it.
Here begins the story of one such supreme intelligence. A story that some may interpret as mythology but stands firm with enough logic and historical evidence to suggest that he was something beyond ordinary human intellect. This is the story of His Grace Neelkanth Varni, popularly known as Swaminarayan.
Swaminarayan, revered as the latest incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is the spiritual force behind the globally recognized Akshardham temples and the Swaminarayan Sampradaya—one of the largest spiritual communities in the world, with millions of followers. The following timeline reveals the sacred footprints of Swaminarayan in the land of Nepal, tracing where he journeyed and the purpose behind his visits.
The Journey Begins: A Divine Birth and Calling
On April 3, 1781, a charismatic child was born in Chhapiya, near Ajodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Rama. Named Neelkanth Varni, he was believed to be a divine incarnation of Lord Vishnu. His early life reflected wisdom and spirituality far beyond his years. On June 29, 1792, at the age of just 11, Neelkanth renounced his home and set out on a spiritual odyssey across the Indian subcontinent, seeking grace and spreading peace and harmony.
The Sacred Path through India
Neelkanth journey began in Chhapaiya, passing through holy sites such as Amarpur, Naimisharanya, Bareli, Naradvan, Haridwar, Shri Pur, and Gaurikund. His path led him to Kedarnath, a divine shrine nestled in the Himalayas. Yet, his search did not end there. He continued to Badrinath, one of Hinduism’s most sacred Char Dhams, and ventured further to Mansarovar in Tibet.
Retracing his steps through Gaumukh, Ayodhya, and Haridwar, Neelkanth reached Bansipur. After a year-long journey from Ayodhya to Bansipur, he set his sights on Muktinath in Nepal—a land that would become an integral chapter in his spiritual quest.
Footprints in Nepal: The Sacred Kaligandaki Trail
Upon entering Nepal, Neelkanth followed the Kaligandaki River, believing its path would lead him to Muktinath. His journey was arduous. Treacherous terrains, wild animals, and harsh climates challenged him at every turn. Yet, the young ascetic—only 12 years old—remained unfazed. He passed through Marpha, Jomsom, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Kagbeni, and Ranipauwa, leaving a trail of sanctity wherever he stepped.
Finally, Neelkanth arrived at Muktinath, where he performed the sacred ritual of taking 108 Gaumukh baths. He meditated and practiced yoga at the very site where Pulaha Rishi, one of Brahma’s ten mind-born sons, had once performed penance. Neelkanth’s penance concluded on Dwadashi, November 15, 1793, marking a significant spiritual milestone in his journey.
Encounters with Royalty and Yogic Wisdom
On his return journey, Neelkanth stopped at Beni Bazaar and proceeded to Butwal. Historical records note a remarkable encounter in Butwal, where he met King Mahadat and his sister, Mayarani. His stay there was revered, and the royal family regarded his presence as a divine blessing.
Continuing his journey on August 18, 1794, Neelkanth traveled through Pokhara, where he met Gopal Yogi. Under the yogi’s mentorship, Neelkanth mastered Ashtanga Yoga—a spiritual discipline that, according to Hindu scriptures, leads to self-realization and liberation. Ashtanga Yoga encompasses eight essential paths:
The Eight Limbs of Yoga offer a complete path to spiritual growth. Yama teaches ethical living, while Niyama focuses on personal discipline and spiritual observances. Asana involves physical postures, and Pranayama is breath control to calm the mind. Pratyahara is withdrawing the senses to turn inward, followed by Dharana, which is focused concentration. Dhyana is deep meditation, leading to Samadhi, the ultimate state of spiritual awakening and oneness. Together, these steps guide one toward a balanced and enlightened life.
Kathmandu and the Royal Miracle
By November 1795, Neelkanth reached Kathmandu, where he visited the sacred Bagmati Dham and the Pashupatinath Temple. During his time in the capital, he met King Pratap Malla, who was suffering from chronic stomach pain and anxiety. Their meeting is recorded as a miraculous event—Neelkanth cured the king’s ailments, leading Pratap Malla to celebrate his presence with great reverence, akin to a divine festival.
Beyond Nepal: The Journey Continues
After leaving Kathmandu, Neelkanth ventured northward into Tibet and China. Upon his return, he visited Baraha Kshetra in Nepal, where he imparted spiritual wisdom to his disciples, teaching them about the principles of life, dharma, and spiritual order.
Eventually, Neelkanth left Nepal, journeying through northeast India, including Sirpur and the sacred Parshuram Kund. His spiritual footprints are etched across Bharatvarsha, marking a legacy of enlightenment, discipline, and divine knowledge.
A Journey beyond Human Comprehension
Neelkanth Varni’s journey across Nepal is not just a tale of physical travel but a profound spiritual odyssey. His path symbolizes endurance, divine purpose, and the pursuit of ultimate truth. While some may interpret his story as myth, the logical patterns in his travels and historical records suggest that Neelkanth was far beyond ordinary human intelligence.
His footprints in Nepal are a testament to a life devoted to spiritual enlightenment, a legacy that continues to inspire millions worldwide. In tracing these sacred paths, we uncover not just the journey of a boy-saint but the story of a divine consciousness that transcends time, space, and human understanding.
