In a world plagued by darkness and despair, Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj emerged as a beacon of hope. His life’s work, founded on the principles of love, compassion, and service, has touched countless lives and continues to spread its warmth.
Beparwah Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj (born 1891), honorifically known as Shah Mastana Ji Balochistani, was the pioneer, the founder, and the first spiritual Master of Dera Sacha Sauda (DSS). His life was a vibrant, divine mission to revive the spiritual deal (Sacha Sauda) between God and man in an era consumed by materialism. He laid the unshakeable foundation for Dera Sacha Sauda’s unique structure, unwavering principles, and philosophy of selfless service.
I. Early Life and The Quest for Truth
Shah Mastana Ji was born as Shri Khemamal Ji in 1891 in the village of Kotra in Kalat district of Balochistan (part of undivided British India). His parents were Shri Pilla Mal Ji and Smt. Tulsa Bai Ji.
* A Natural Seeker: From an early age, Khemamal Ji was driven by a deep spiritual urge and possessed an intense desire to find a true spiritual teacher (Guru).
* The Spiritual Journey: Leaving his home at the age of 14, he spent approximately nine years traversing various regions in search of a perfect Master. His quest finally led him to Punjab, where he met Hazur Baba Sawan Singh Ji Maharaj of Radha Soami Satsang, Beas.
* Receiving the Title: His extraordinary devotion and surrender deeply impressed Baba Sawan Singh Ji, who initiated him and honored him with the spiritual name ‘Shah Mastana Ji’. The titles he earned—such as “Mastana-e-Mastanon, Shah-e-Shahon” (The Master of all ecstatics, The King of all kings)—reflected his state of divine intoxication.
II. The Foundation of Dera Sacha Sauda
Following the instructions of his Guru, Shah Mastana Ji was entrusted with the task of spreading the spiritual message and method of meditation in the Bagad region, encompassing parts of northern Rajasthan and western Haryana.
* Establishing the Center: It was in Sirsa, Haryana, that Beparwah Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj laid the foundation of Dera Sacha Sauda (DSS) on the auspicious day of April 29, 1948. The name “Dera Sacha Sauda” translates to “Camp (or Abode) of the True Deal (or True Bargain)”.
- Dera means “encampment,” “abode,” “residence,” or the dwelling place of a saint or guru.
- Sacha Sauda means “true deal,” “true business,” or “true bargain”.
It refers to the spiritual bargain of dedicating oneself to God’s Name.
* The Slogan: He coined the sacred slogan, “Dhan Dhan Satguru Tera Hi Asra,” meaning, “O Praiseworthy True Guru, You are my only hope/support.” This phrase became the hallmark of the Dera’s followers.
* The Prohibited Charity: A unique and defining principle established by Shah Mastana Ji was the absolute prohibition of accepting donations, offerings, or charity for the Dera’s operations. He insisted that all followers must earn their livelihood through honest, hard work and dedicate only their time to Sewa (selfless service).
III. Core Teachings and Practical Service
During his twelve-year period of leadership (1948–1960), Shah Mastana Ji taught a simple yet powerful path to God-realization, emphasizing practical living alongside deep spirituality.
* The Three Principles: He established the three mandatory vows for anyone seeking initiation (Naam-Shabd):
- Strict Vegetarianism: Abstinence from meat, eggs, and gelatin.
- Abstinence from Intoxicants: Complete avoidance of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.
- Moral Integrity: Maintaining loyalty and high moral character in relationships.
* The Miracles of Generosity: He became legendary for his divine miracles, often distributing vast amounts of gold, silver, and currency among the poor to show the unimportance of material wealth compared to spiritual devotion. This was done to inspire people toward the true wealth of God’s Name, without accepting any monetary return.
* Expansion of Ashrams: Under his guidance, 25 initial Ashrams were established across Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan, serving as centers for meditation and community service.
Spreading Joy and Positivity: Dera Sacha Sauda Celebrates Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj’s Birthday
The birthday celebrations of Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj are a grand affair, marked by spiritual fervor and humanitarian zeal. Devotees from all over the world gather at the Dera Sacha Sauda ashrams and its branches, filled with enthusiasm and love for their revered Master. The occasion is celebrated with great devotion, featuring massive welfare activities like blood donation camps, tree plantation drives, and distribution of essential items to the underprivileged.
Spiritual congregations and devotional singing fill the air, as followers share testimonials of his divine grace and the transformative impact of his teachings on their lives. Through these selfless acts, followers honor their beloved Master’s legacy, spreading love, peace, and positivity in the world. The celebrations serve as a reminder of Shah Mastana Ji Maharaj’s timeless message of compassion, service, and spiritual growth, inspiring millions to walk the path of righteousness and devotion.
This MSG Bhandara, let’s pledge to live by Shah Mastana Ji’s eternal teachings and continue to serve mankind with all our strength. Wishing everyone a very Happy MSG Bhandara.
