Once Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the village of Ratanpur, near Rajkot in Gujarat. Because of a severe drought, a relief camp had been set up here to care for 5,000 abandoned calves. When Swamishri went to the camp, a herd of calves followed him wherever he went. Swamishri asked the camp’s head volunteer about this strange behaviour. The volunteer said, “Swami, because of the drought, we have not been able to get grass or fodder. These poor calves have not had anything to eat for three days. In the hope of getting something to eat, they are following anyone who comes here.” Swamishri was saddened at the plight of the poor calves. So, as soon as he got to the Gondal Mandir, he called the kothari, Gnanprasad Swami, and told him, “Those poor, hungry calves in Ratanpur followed me around in the hope of getting something to eat. I was unable to bear that sight. Call Yogiswarup Swami in Rajkot right now and tell him to send trucks of grass to Ratanpur for the hungry calves.”

There must have been countless such unfortunate calves all around Gujarat. At this thought, Swamishri decided to start cattle camps to help these poor mute animals. He told everyone, “I will engage 300 sadhus in this seva. I will also get devotees to offer their services. We cannot sit idle at a time like this. Just look at the misery of these poor animals! For these mute animals, humans are the only hope.” What compassion! Yes, Swamishri’s river of compassion nourishes all the creatures of the universe. Today, as a result of his compassion, BAPS engages in over 162 spiritual and humanitarian service activities.

INSPIRATION: In times of crisis, we should help in any way we can.