Gaddhi
Spiritual Throne
To anyone coming to the Dera for the first time, the first thing that they will notice is the ‘Gaddhi’, which is prominently positioned at the front of the main hall. To the outsider it might appear for all sense and purposes a simple raised platform, but for us many devotees it signifies the spiritual throne of Mahraz Darshan Das.
The ‘Gaddhi’ is venerated by all followers in the mission because it is from here Mahraz Jee delivered his spiritual discourses, and healed people. Before taking his place on the Gaddhi, Mahraz Jee would always solemnly bow before it as a sign of respect. On the Gaddhi, Mahraz Jee would be joined by a close devotee who would recite at interlude scriptural verses (Vaak) for Mahraz Jee to explain in detail to the congregation.
Mahraz Jee had the utmost respect for the ‘Gaddhi’ and similarly the Gaddhi is revered by all devotees who bow before it. It is also the focal point where all prayers are said and duly answered.
Every day, as directed by Mahraz Darshan Das, a spiritual hymn is recited as the ‘Gaddhi’ is prepared. At the beginning of daily worship and at its conclusion, the Arjoi Niradhar is conducted before the Gaddhi, to invoke its spiritual blessings.
In October 1987 a month before his death, Mahraz Jee decreed that his Swaroop (photo) was to be placed on the Gaadhi to represent him in his absence. A Jyot (earthen lamp) and mission flag were also to be placed symbolically on the Gaddhi’s right hand side.
Mahraz Darshan Das for reasons he alone knows, had categorically stated on many occasions, that after him no one is permitted to sit on his ‘Gaddhi.’ We have remained true to Mahraz Jee's edict, and the Birmingham ‘Gaddhi’ has the distinction of being the only one that has been preserved in line with Mahraz Jee’s final wishes.