Morari Bapu

Philosophy and Teachings

Bapu’s overall ethos of katha is universal peace by reciting nine-day discourses, spreading the message of truth (satya), love (prem), and compassion (karuna), and relating the Ramcharitmanas scripture to everyday lives, embedding spirituality rather than religion.

Bapu defines religion as truth, love, and compassion. According to him, the conventional idea of being religious is confined to going to temples or churches and observing fasts, but the idea of religion as truth, love, and compassion goes beyond the boundaries of countries and continents.

Bapu’s line of thought is “not to improve, but to accept all”. Bapu does not see those who listen to or attend the Ram Kathas as his followers. Instead, he calls them “flowers”.

Bapu spreads awareness about the essentials of life, which captures the interest of numerous young individuals who are also drawn to attend katha. People should come out of the mental crises of jealousy (Īrṣyā), backbiting and criticism (ninda) and hatred (dvesh).

Bapu supports environment-related causes. Cows should be nurtured and worshipped, not harmed. Bapu believes in ‘Pravahi Parampara’ (flowing tradition). He has been speaking for progressive norms in the 21st century and feels there should be no stagnancy in religious beliefs.

Bapu says that the Ramcharitmanas is meant for the welfare and development of every living being.

Bapu has faith in the five elements (Pancha tattva) philosophy. As per him, the five cardinal elements of Sanatan Dharma are: Bhagavan Ganesha, Bhagavan Rama, Bhagavan Krishna, Bhagavan Shiva, Goddess Durga (representing all goddesses). And all philosophy is contained in the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Puranas, the Bhagvad Gita and the Ramayana.

Bapu celebrates and espouses the importance of Sanatan Dharma festivals like Diwali, Janmashtami, Ram Navami, Shravan Maas and Navratri and encourages vegetarianism and keeping the Holy Basil Plant (Tulsi) in homes.

Morari Bapu himself follows the tradition of bhiksha, a very sacred ritual in the Sanatan Dharma of accepting food as alms without any personal choices and eating whatever is served.