Prayagraj: As the Yogi government leverages technology to transform Prayagraj Mahakumbh into a grand, clean, safe, spiritually enriching and well-organised event, the 13 Akharas—the spiritual flag bearers of Sanatan Dharma—are following suit.
Inspired by the Digital Mahakumbh initiative, these historic institutions are adopting digital tools to streamline their management while preserving their rich religious heritage. By creating comprehensive database, the akharas are stepping into the digital age, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and innovation in their operations.
In this digital shift, the akharas are utilising digitalisation for record-keeping and management purposes. Mahant Jamuna Puri, Secretary of Shri Panchayati Akhara Maha Nirvana, explained that both computers and traditional ledgers are now in use, greatly simplifying akhara audits. “The database helps maintain records required for income tax filing, which are then shared with our chartered accountant,” he added.
Someshwaranand Brahmachari, General Secretary of Shri Panch Agni Akhara, shared insights into the practical benefits of this digital transition: “During Mahakumbh audits, information was previously compiled manually from ledgers. Now, with technology, we gather all necessary data efficiently. Our akhara also runs Sanskrit schools, and we use this database to track everything from student numbers to the income and expenditure of these schools.”
Database of akharas will provide impetus to their global campaigns
The 13 akharas of Sanatan Dharma are not only key promoters of spirituality, devotion, and sadhana but also lead numerous global initiatives through their acharyas. Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Arun Giri Ji of Awahan Akhara highlights that, in addition to religious efforts, saints are also working toward the betterment of humanity.
One such initiative is a global tree-planting campaign aimed at environmental protection, for which Acharya Arun Giri Ji is also creating a database. This digital approach enhances efficiency, fosters transparency, and aids in effective management, saving valuable time and resources.
Database to strengthen Sanatan Dharma’s connection with deprived communities
The creation of a comprehensive database will play a vital role in fostering closer ties between Sanatan Dharma and tribal and deprived societies. Maha Mandaleshwar Swami Pranavanand Saraswati Ji of Shri Panchayati Akhara Maha Nirvani emphasizes that embracing digital tools is essential for the exploration and expansion of spiritual outreach in the modern age.
Reflecting on his experiences during tribal development tours aimed at awakening and connecting these communities to the traditions of Sanatan Dharma, Swami Pranavanand highlights the importance of gathering information and creating a database. “To strengthen the roots of Sanatan Dharma among deprived societies, collecting their data is necessary, and I am personally making efforts toward this,” he states.
Vaishnav akharas to develop their own database
Vaishnav akharas have expressed their intention to create their own databases, though technical challenges have delayed the implementation. Shri Mahant Ram Ji Das of All India Shri Panch Nirmohi Ani Akhara explains that unlike the akharas of the Sanyasi sect, Vaishnav akharas do not operate their own trusts, and thus, do not require audits.
However, he acknowledges that in today’s digital age, Vaishnav akharas will also need to establish databases for their respective institutions in order to keep pace with modern developments.
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