For the past four decades, Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, widely known as ‘Chai Wala Baba’ in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, has been offering free guidance to aspiring civil servants. What sets him apart is his unique vow of silence and abstention from solid food, surviving solely on 10 cups of tea each day. Brahmachari, a former tea seller turned ascetic, has become a beacon of support for students preparing for the civil services exams.
His teachings, however, transcend the traditional classroom setting. Through WhatsApp, Baba shares study materials, answers students’ queries, and offers motivational support, all at no cost to the learners.
Despite his vow of silence, communication with Baba remains seamless. Rajesh Singh, a civil service aspirant who has been under Baba’s guidance for years, explained that Baba uses written messages and gestures to impart his wisdom. Singh mentioned, “We don’t believe that the written medium is the best, but it serves its purpose.” The reasoning behind Baba’s silence is tied to his belief in conserving energy, which he uses to assist others. Baba’s dedication to helping civil service aspirants succeed in their educational journeys continues to inspire many.
Currently attending the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Brahmachari remains steadfast in his mission to support aspiring civil servants.
उत्तर प्रदेश के प्रतापगढ़ में चाय बेचने वाले और तपस्वी बने “चाय वाले बाबा” पिछले 40 सालों से बिना कुछ खाए-पिए और बिना कुछ बोले सिविल सेवा उम्मीदवारों को मुफ्त कोचिंग दे रहे हैं। #chaiwalebaba #mahakumbhprayagraj #mounibaba #freeUPSCcoaching #mahakumbhmela pic.twitter.com/yMZhbJBmk5
— Nari (@NariKesari) January 9, 2025
Maha Kumbh Mela and Spiritual Significance
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, will take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26. Pilgrims from around the globe gather at the Triveni Sangam for a holy dip to purify their souls. The Kumbh Mela’s origins are based on the Hindu myth of Samudra Manthan, where Lord Vishnu, in the form of Mohini, protected the nectar of immortality, which eventually spilled over four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. These sites have become sacred, attracting millions of pilgrims, and Brahmachari’s presence at this significant event emphasizes his commitment to spirituality and education.
