Patience Is Essential in Adverse Circumstances: Prashant Agrawal
‘Apno Se Apni Baat’ programme highlights self-awareness and dedication to duty through stories of King Janaka and Ashtavakra
Udaipur, November 10, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Narayan Seva Sansthan President Prashant Agrawal highlighted the importance of knowledge, detachment, patience and self-control through episodes from the lives of King Janaka and Sage Ashtavakra during the ‘Apno Se Apni Baat’ programme held at the World of Humanity in Sevatirth.
He said true knowledge is not limited to books. Its impact should be reflected in a person’s thoughts and behaviour.
Ashtavakra’s Knowledge Beyond Physical Appearance
Agrawal explained that when young Ashtavakra entered King Janaka’s court, some scholars laughed at his physical appearance. In response, Ashtavakra said that a person’s identity should be judged by knowledge and thoughts, not by the body.
Impressed by his arguments and scholarship, King Janaka honoured him. Ashtavakra later defeated Bandi in a scholarly debate and secured the release of his father, Kahoda, along with other sages.
The episode teaches that a person’s qualities and knowledge should be respected rather than their external appearance.
Balancing Responsibilities in Difficult Situations
Agrawal said King Janaka once asked Ashtavakra why the mind continued to be disturbed by circumstances even after gaining knowledge.
Ashtavakra explained that habits developed over many years and attachments do not disappear in a single day. When Janaka received information about a water shortage in his kingdom and a crisis on the border, he became disturbed himself.
Ashtavakra explained that running away from responsibilities is not a solution. True understanding lies in fulfilling one’s duties while keeping the mind balanced and unaffected by circumstances.
Ashtavakra’s Resolve and Self-Control
In another episode, Agrawal narrated how Ashtavakra sought the hand of Suprabha, daughter of Sage Vadanaya, in marriage.
To test him, the sage sent Ashtavakra on a journey towards the north. Despite encountering various comforts and attractions during the journey, Ashtavakra remained committed to his resolve and principles.
Pleased with his dedication, the goddess of the north blessed him. After his return, Sage Vadanaya arranged his marriage to Suprabha.
The episode offers lessons in self-control, strong determination and remaining steadfast in one’s principles.
Persons with disabilities from different parts of the country and hundreds of family members attended the programme and listened to the discourse.
Diwali Celebrated at Narayan Seva Sansthan
The institution also celebrated Diwali with enthusiasm. Founder Chairman Kailash Manav, Co-founder Kamla Devi Agrawal, President Prashant Agrawal and Director Vandana Agrawal attended the Lakshmi Puja.
After the prayers, fruits and sweets were distributed among persons with disabilities.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.