Visit to Vallam
Towards the end of 1924, Swamigal visited Vallam, close to Tanjore. Local Christians and Muslims joined the Hindus in giving a huge welcome to Swamigal.
Vallam had never seen such celebrations before. Lots of Harijans joined the celebrations to welcome Swamigal. A huge procession was arranged and Swamigal sat in an ivory palanquin and gave darshan to devotees. The crowds were screaming with happiness and believed that their town would prosper with Swamigal’s visit. The procession took a couple of hours and reached the place where the mutt was camped.
Swamigal gave a speech where he said that he was very happy that such a grand welcome was given to him. All villages should live in harmony and peace similar to Vallam. Even when arguments and situations of discord arise, the people should settle it amongst themselves and should never let the situation elevate to a point that cases are filed in court. Whatever the religion may be, one should follow one’s religion as per rules prescribed; Christians and Muslims tend to follow their religious practices more than Hindus and Hindus should learn this aspect from Christians and Muslims.
He could see the bhakthi and devotion in the hundreds of Harijans gathered there with Vibhuti in their forehead; the general public should take care of the needs of Harijans and only then would their village / towns would prosper. It is important that everyone ensures that religious piety is maintained around the country. The local people agreed to conduct themselves as per Swamigal’s advice and took their leave. Swamigal met with the Harijan men, women and children individually,
inquired about their well being and gave them prasadam.
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