Kept Ekadashi Fast — Even During a Race

Spiritual discipline story — Vighnesh Sanjay Mohota’s journey shows how faith, devotion, and inner strength can overcome even the toughest physical challenges.

He fought his own mind when no one was watching.

Vighnesh Sanjay Mohota

Student, International Business
UNSW Sydney, Australia
Proud Alumnus of Gurukul Bangalore (Batch 2020–2022)

The story of Gurukul alumni spiritual discipline is beautifully reflected in the life of Vighnesh Mohota. His journey shows how the values learned at Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul continue to guide students even after they step into the real world.

A Race that Became a Revelation

A Spiritual Discipline Story of Faith and Strength

This spiritual discipline story is not just about physical endurance, but about staying true to faith even in the most demanding situations.

In 2024, under Dubai’s glowing sunrise, the grand arena of BITS Fest Dubai buzzed with energy. Athletes from many nations had gathered for one of the Middle East’s most dynamic university sports events.

Amidst this sea of competitors stood one young runner, calm and composed — and fasting.
It was Ekadashi, a sacred day of devotion.
While others fueled themselves with energy drinks and protein bars,

Vighnesh carried only one source of strength — faith in Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the blessings of his Guru, Sadguru Mahant Swami Shri Devprasaddasji Swami.

The Test of Guidance & Obedience

Understanding the physical challenge ahead, Vighnesh humbly called Mahant Swamiji for guidance. With affectionate concern, Swamiji replied:

 “You may eat today, considering your health and performance.”

But years of Gurukul training had shaped a deeper voice within him — a voice that whispered the true essence of obedience:

“Obedience is not just following the words — it is living the spirit of the Guru.”

He chose to continue his Ekadashi fast. Not out of stubbornness. Not out of ego. But out  of love, reverence, and unshakable devotion

In this spiritual discipline story, every step Vighnesh took reflected his commitment to devotion over comfort.

When Faith Meets the Finish Line 

The 1500-meter championship race began.The sun climbed higher.Heat pressed down on every runner.

Vighnesh’s body grew weaker with every lap — but his bhakti burned brighter.
Each stride became a mantra. Each breath became an offering.

In the final lap, exhaustion clouded his vision. His legs trembled. His throat felt dry. But something deeper carried him forward — the silent strength of surrender.

With the last reserves of his fading physical power, he crossed the finish line…
…and collapsed.

As darkness closed in, one thought rose from his heart:

“Swamiji, this race was yours.”

The Victory Beyond Medals

When he regained consciousness, the crowd clapped. Yet Vighnesh wasn’t thinking of medals, rankings, or achievements.

His reward was far greater — a moment of divine peace, a feeling of inner victory,
a realization deeper than triumph.

That day, he understood Gurukul’s timeless teaching:

“True victory is not winning over others — it is winning over yourself.”

The incident became a living lesson in his life — reminding him that devotion isn’t measured by convenience, but by commitment. Physical strength fades. Spiritual strength endures. When body and mind surrender to faith, even pain transforms into peace.

This spiritual discipline story stands as an inspiration for every Gurukul student striving to live with discipline, devotion, and purpose.

He has proven himself to be a true Gurukulite and a devoted follower of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul takes pride in Vighnesh Sanjay Mohota .