BHANGARNATH, was a Gorakhpanthi yogi whom, according to the BalaJanam Sakhi, Guru Nanak met in one of the mountain resorts of the siddhas or adepts who through austerities and penances had attained occult powers. Bhai Gurdas, Varan, I. 3941, places this meeting in Achal Vatala (Batala), now in Gurdaspur district of the Punjab, where Guru Nanak is said to have arrived from Kartarpur on the occasion of the Sivaratri fair. In the discourse that ensued, Bhangarnath chided the Guru for having discarded the garb of a recluse [referring to the way he clad himself for his journeys through different parts] and for reentering the life of a householder. Guru Nanak, as Bhai Gurdas reports, said, “How will they be approved who renounce worldly life and yet go to beg at the doors of the householders?”
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh, ed., Janamsakhi Bhai Bala. Chandigarh, 1975
2. Jodh Singh, Religious Philosophy of Guru Nanak. Delhi, 1982
3. Trilochan Singh, Guru Nanak. Delhi, 1969
Guru Nanak’s encounter with Yogi Bhangarnath is a fascinating episode that highlights the Guru’s wisdom and his emphasis on spiritual truth over ritualistic practices. This meeting took place at Achal Batala, a site in Punjab, during the Shivratri festival.
The Encounter
Setting:
Achal Batala was a gathering place for yogis and ascetics during the Shivratri festival. Guru Nanak’s arrival attracted a large crowd, which made the yogis, including Bhangarnath, envious.
Debate:
ogi Bhangarnath questioned Guru Nanak’s choice to live as a householder rather than adopting the garb of a recluse. Guru Nanak responded by challenging the hypocrisy of renouncing worldly life while still depending on householders for sustenance.
Miracles and Teachings:
The yogis attempted to display their occult powers to humble Guru Nanak, but their efforts failed. Guru Nanak emphasized that true spiritual power lies in the remembrance of God’s name (Naam) rather than in magical tricks.
Significance
This encounter underscores Guru Nanak’s teachings on:
- Equality: Spirituality is not confined to asceticism; it is accessible to all, including householders.
- Truth over Rituals: Guru Nanak rejected superficial practices and emphasized inner devotion and connection with the divine.
- Humility and Grace: Despite the yogis’ hostility, Guru Nanak remained calm and compassionate, guiding them toward the path of truth.
The site of this encounter, Gurdwara Achal Sahib, stands as a reminder of Guru Nanak’s profound wisdom and his efforts to reform spiritual practices.
