Pranami

Rajaji and tartam sagar

Pranami

Pranami is a syncretic religion that originated in the 17th century in Gujarat, India. It was founded by Meher Raj Thakur, also known as Prannath, who is considered the central figure of the faith. The Pranami tradition is rooted in the teachings of the Kuljam Swaroop, a holy scripture that combines elements of Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism.

Beliefs

Pranami followers believe in the unity of all religions and emphasize the worship of a single, formless God. The faith promotes the idea that all religious texts are different paths leading to the same divine truth. The Kuljam Swaroop is the primary scripture of the Pranami faith, and it contains teachings that draw from various religious traditions, including Vaishnavism, Sufism, and Sant Mat.

Practices

Pranami worship involves daily prayers, meditation, and the singing of devotional hymns. The community gathers in temples known as Pranami Mandirs for collective worship and religious ceremonies. The faith places a strong emphasis on non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion.

Festivals

Pranami followers celebrate several festivals, many of which are shared with other Hindu traditions. Key festivals include Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna, and Diwali, the festival of lights. Additionally, the birth and death anniversaries of Prannath are observed with special prayers and gatherings.

Spread and Influence

The Pranami faith has a significant following in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh in India, as well as in Nepal. In recent years, the faith has also spread to countries with Indian diaspora communities, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Temples

Prominent Pranami temples include the Shree 5 Narayan Dham in Kathmandu, Nepal, and the Shree Krishna Pranami Temple in Jamnagar, Gujarat. These temples serve as centers for worship, community gatherings, and the dissemination of Pranami teachings.

See also

• Hinduism
• Vaishnavism
• Sikhism
• Sufism
• Sant Mat
• Non-violence
• Compassion