In Nepal, priests at the historic Pashupatinath Temple are embracing technological advancements, integrating the internet and mobile phones into their devotional teachings. Ahead of the upcoming Maha Shivaratri celebrations, which hold immense significance in Hinduism, the temple is witnessing a modern twist with priests, adorned in traditional yellow and black robes and ash-smeared foreheads, now seen sporting smartphones.
Among these priests is Swami Trilochandra Ji Maharaj Ram Kathabachak, hailing from Sitamarhi, Bihar, who uses his phone to preach to followers and stay connected with his Ashram. Swami Trilochandra Ji received the phone as a gift from a disciple, highlighting how technology has become an essential tool even for spiritual leaders.
“For us, using mobile phones has become a way to stay in contact with each other and our followers,” Swami Trilochandra Ji explained. “Although we discovered mobile phones later in life, they have become invaluable in maintaining connections. While children today are born into a world of technology, for us, it has provided numerous benefits and improved communication with our followers.”
As preparations for Maha Shivaratri continue, many priests camping in and around the temple are seen engaging in video calls and virtual tours of the sacred site. These Sadhus, who have chosen a life apart from society, now find smartphones essential for connectivity, utilizing various apps like WhatsApp and social media platforms to stay in touch with family, friends, and disciples.
“Being outside society, we cherish photos as mementos when we visit places like Pashupatinath Temple,” shared a Sadhu camping within the temple premises. “With smartphones, we can capture moments and share them with loved ones. It also allows us to stay connected and share our spiritual journey with others.”
The Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of Sadhus from various backgrounds, ranging from ascetics seeking liberation to those seeking solace and knowledge. With smartphones becoming ubiquitous among the Sadhu community, they now rely on technology to access information, communicate, and share religious teachings.
Recognizing the importance of smartphones for Sadhus, the Pashupati Area Development Trust has started providing mobile charging services for visiting priests. However, access to the internet remains restricted, as authorities perceive it as a potential distraction from spiritual pursuits, especially during Maha Shivaratri, a time for meditation and devotion.
Despite calls for free internet hotspots around heritage sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, such initiatives have yet to materialize. Nevertheless, the anticipation for Maha Shivaratri remains high, with the trust expecting over a million devotees to flock to the temple, seeking spiritual elevation and connection with the divine during this auspicious occasion.
Comments