UK PM Rishi Sunak Meets Morari Bapu: Who Is This Indian Spiritual Leader And Ramayana's Famous Exponent?

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Tuesday attended the Indian spiritual leader Morari Bapu's discourse at Jesus College, University of Cambridge.

"Bapu, I am here today not as a Prime Minister, but as a Hindu," Britain's first Indian-origin Prime Minister said, opening his address at the gathering. "For me, faith is very personal. It guides me in every aspect of my life. Being Prime Minister is a great honour, but it is not an easy job. There are difficult decisions to make, hard choices to confront and our faith gives me courage, strength, and resilience to do the best that I can for our country," he added.

The nine-day Ram Katha at Cambridge University commenced last Saturday with a reception by Barbados-born Sonita Alleyne, the 41st Master and the first woman to lead Jesus College since its inception in 1496, and will run until this weekend.

So, who is Morari Bapu?

Morari Bapu is a spirtual leader from Gujarat who is an exponent of Ramcharitmanas, a Hindu scripture that narrates the life and teachings of Lord Rama. His discourses and recitations of the Ramcharitmanas are popular all over the world. He is widely recognized for promoting values such as truth, compassion, and devotion through his teachings.

He has conducted numerous Ram Katha (discourses on the Ramcharitmanas) events over the years, drawing large audiences and followers. His discourses often emphasize the importance of moral and ethical values in everyday life.

Apart from his spiritual activities, Morari Bapu is involved in various charitable and social initiatives, working to uplift and empower communities through education, healthcare, and other humanitarian efforts. He is respected for his simplicity, humility, and dedication to spreading spiritual wisdom and social well-being.

Bapu offers his recitations of Ram Katha free of charge, making his teachings accessible to all, irrespective of financial or other limitations. His preachings are open to people of all ages, genders, castes, creeds, and social backgrounds.

Notably, Morari Bapu adheres to the Bhiksha tradition, a sacred practice within Sanatan Dharma, where he graciously accepts food offerings as alms without any personal preferences, consuming whatever is presented to him.