Dada Bhagwan – The Enlightened Visionary of Akram Vignan

 Dada Bhagwan: Founder of Akram Vignan Movement & 2024 India Post Stamp Tribute

Dada Bhagwan, born as Ambalal Muljibhai Patel on 7 November 1908 in Tarsali, Gujarat, was a revered Indian spiritual teacher and the founder of the Akram Vignan Movement. Known affectionately as Dadashri, he dedicated his life to guiding seekers toward self-realization through a direct path of spiritual awakening, bypassing traditional rituals and ascetic practices.

Initially a contractor in Bombay’s dry dock industry, Ambalal Patel experienced a profound spiritual transformation in 1958, which he described as spontaneous self-realization. This marked the birth of his teachings, which emphasized Atma Gnan (knowledge of the soul), Ahimsa (non-violence), and inner purity.

Unlike conventional step-by-step spiritual paths, Akram Vignan offers a shortcut to liberation through the grace of a Gnani (enlightened being). Dada Bhagwan’s teachings focus on understanding the real Self, detachment from worldly identity, and living with compassion and humility. His discourses were simple, relatable, and deeply transformative.

He inspired millions across India and abroad, especially in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the Indian diaspora. His legacy continues through Dada Bhagwan Foundation, led by Pujya Deepakbhai Desai, which conducts spiritual satsangs, publishes literature, and organizes global events.

On 10 November 2024, commemorating his 117th birth anniversary, India Post issued a ₹5 commemorative stamphonoring Dada Bhagwan. The stamp, designed by Ms. Nenu Gupta and printed by Security Printing Press, Hyderabad, features his serene portrait with a globe motif, symbolizing his universal teachings. A total of 410,000 stamps were released in multicolor wet offset format.

Trivia Points

• Born on 7 November 1908 in Tarsali, Gujarat.
• Original name: Ambalal Muljibhai Patel.
• Experienced self-realization in 1958.
• Founded the Akram Vignan Movement.
• Emphasized Atma Gnan and Ahimsa.
• Known as Dadashri by followers.
• Worked as a dry dock contractor in Bombay.
• Believed in direct path to liberation.
• Inspired formation of Dada Bhagwan Foundation.
• Stamp issued on 10 November 2024.
• Stamp part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav commemorations.
• Designed by Ms. Nenu Gupta, printed in Hyderabad.
• Stamp features serene expression and globe motif.
• Died on 2 January 1988 in Ahmedabad.
• His teachings are preserved in Gnanvani discourses.

Have you explored Dada Bhagwan’s teachings or attended a satsang? Share your experience in the comments below. Subscribe to our newsletter for more stories on India’s spiritual icons and commemorative stamps.