Grace in Unexpected Moments

Sometimes, grace touches us in the most ordinary, almost hidden ways—a habit quietly dissolving, a piece of fruit appearing at just the right moment. In these simple yet profound experiences, Mohanji’s presence reveals itself, guiding us beyond limitations and keeping us protected on our path.

From Smoke Screens to Clear Skies: A Journey of Grace and Release

by Carla Hartog

As a teenager, I proudly collected cigarette packs instead of marbles or stamps. Later, smoking became my little ritual — three to five a day, always rolled with care, often under the stars. It felt like “my” meditation, my secret doorway to silence. And yes, sometimes I excused myself by thinking: Well, Shirdi Baba smoked too. Only difference? He was realised. I was simply hooked.

For decades, I carried this hidden habit with me. Hotels, rooftops, even ashrams — I always found a corner. At home, I’d retreat to the garage or garden at night, a self-styled yogini with an ashtray in hand. Outwardly disciplined, inwardly chained. I laughed at myself, yet couldn’t let go.

The turning point came in 2021, when Mohanji stayed at our temple in Onderdijk. One night, caught in the act, a sharp “You smoke?!” pierced through all my excuses. Embarrassment welled up. At 5 a.m., I sat outside the terrace doors, and for the first time in my life, I asked — silently, honestly — for help. Not for the cough, but for the dependency. That was the chain.

The morning after Mohanji left, I tried to roll another cigarette. It tasted wrong. Day after day, I tested myself, but the ritual was hollow. The smoke no longer gave solace. The “meditation” had vanished. Something invisible had shifted.

Now, I sometimes miss those midnight sessions, but when I look up at the stars, I see them clearly — no veil, no haze. And I realise: what I thought I couldn’t live without was gently taken away.

We all have our “smokes” — habits or escapes we cling to, while secretly knowing they cloud us. My story is not really about cigarettes. It’s about asking for help, allowing grace, and discovering that what seems impossible alone becomes effortless in the presence of a Master.

Jai Mohanji!

The Apples on the Highway: Discovering My Guru’s Grace

by Anshika Jha

Jai Mohanji! Om Sai Ram!

I am not in any position to share a testimonial about Mohanji. The very fact that he has accepted me into his fold, given an unworthy, undisciplined person like me such powerful practices, and made himself available without judgment or censure in itself is his ultimate grace. However, for the sake of strengthening our faith, and as Mohanji says, to help us maintain a connection through talking, writing, thinking, reading, and listening about the Master, I am sharing this short, humble experience. 

I went to visit Mohanji at the MCB in Dugspur, Virginia, in September 2023. I have to admit that I had not really taken him to be my Guru until then. There was a deep yearning to see him, but I was taking my time to find my Guru, because for me, my Guru had to be one to whom I would surrender absolutely- for eternity.  

I had a very peaceful visit to MCB. We had a beautiful satsang and powerful homa (which I was able to attend entirely by his grace- as per the program, I would not have been able to make it). It was the first time I was away from my two little kids and husband, and the first time I travelled alone anywhere in the US. It was also the first time I drove a long distance between Charlotte and Dugspur. I therefore had no idea how to prepare myself for it! 

Mohanji works in mysterious ways. Before I left the MCB, I met Mohanji to take his leave. He told people around him, “Hey, give her some fruit before she leaves”. Someone came and gave me a couple of fresh crisp apples, and I was on my way. In the middle of the highway, due to the monotony of the route, the cool breeze, and the light sunshine, or perhaps because it was mid-afternoon, I began to struggle not to pass out. I had nothing with me to help me out of my stupor. And that is when, with one hand on the steering wheel, I found the apples in my bag. They literally saved my life that day! 

There have been many experiences afterwards as well, and I have since deepened my connection with Mohanji- my Guru. 

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|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||

Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 28^th September 2025

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Mohanji Testimonials team