Sivananda-Shanti, B.A., B.T., Dehra Dun

What can be said of such a good soul like him. Words fail to describe him, and his virtuous qualities. His name was 'Partha-Sarathi'. It means Krishna the God, and also one who directs Arjuna in the great war of the Mahabharata. So he is none in the Ashram; there is not a single man who does not take his consent. But see the peculiarity. Krishna directed only Arjuna, but he directs the whole Ashram with goodwill and a cheerful face.

I was deeply impressed by his services. He has left no stone unturned in helping the needy. He loves Gurudev with heart and soul. So whatever he does, is all for his Master. There is no individual interest. In the month of July, when his holiness was on bed, he was on feet. He rested not for a single minute. The sleep was postponed by him for days and days together. But still he was alert and fresh and participated in the Ashram's activities.

He appreciates the good qualities in others and wants to take them into him, just to please his Lord with virtues. The symbol of his room is 'Khut Khut'. He types throughout the day and night. He is an expert in his work. The long speeches and articles which are given to him in the evening, he will return to you in the morning, not only typed but with addition and subtraction.

By his great services towards his visitors and fellow-beings, and his deep love for his Master, he glorified the wondrous works of God Almighty.

There is no ego in him. He respects his elders with folded hands and prostrations, which shows the quality of humility in him.

He is the editor of the Yoga-Vedanta Forest University Weekly, in which you find all information about the Ashram and its activities. It shows his presence of mind.
He has a dynamic and commanding personality. He has a radiant and innocent face. His smiles are rare and lasting. Every drop of his blood is pure and sincere.

There is unity in diversity in his character. On one hand you will find him a quiet saint, but on the other hand you see that he cracks jokes with everybody.

Swami Venkatesananda is like a Sun-Flower in Siva's garden. As by the law of nature, the Sun-Flower always has its face towards the sun; so is the case with him. His sun is Gurudev; where the Gurudev is, there he is. He never misses his Master at any time.

Now I shall end this article with prostrations and salutations to such a high soul like him. May the showers of blessings of God be on him throughout his life, and I wish him every success and happiness in his future undertakings.