It was the night before mundan (monthly shave). Swamishri had finished his meetings a little earlier than usual. He was making his way to his room when Motiram Laad commented, "Bapa, everything finished early because it is mundan tomorrow."

Swamishri stopped, looked at Motiram Laad and Labhu Pati, and said, "You should all have a mundan as well and then arrange a procession to celebrate."

It was just a passing remark. But the youths present decided to obey Swamishri's wish to the letter. So they all had their heads shaved. As the word spread, some youths who had gone home, returned to the mandir to have a mundan.

In all, over 20 youths - students, professionals and businessmen, married and single - had their heads clean shaved, without concern of the possible reaction of family, friends and business associates.

In the morning, they all led Swamishri in a procession from his room to the assembly hall for puja. Swamishri sat them on the stage near his puja. The whole scenario reminded one of the times when on receiving a letter from Shriji Maharaj, 18 devotees immediately shaved their heads and became sadhus.

After completing his puja, Swamishri expressed his joy at the boldness shown by the youths, "The hallmark of a true devotee is that he sacrifices his all for God. He is ever ready to obey all of God's wishes... Before a product is marketed, it is tested in the laboratory. Such goods are of proven quality. Shriji Maharaj tested 18 and today these youths have been tested! Their families may be worried that we'll make them into sadhus. But don't worry. This was just a test. Whenever the need arises, I know they can be relied upon."

Swamishri's mission is to free us from all worldly and bodily attachment, to elevate us spiritually and make us worthy of a seat in Akshardham. By living in accordance with his wishes, we will surely secure our place in Akshardham.