The Six Steps of Saranagati: CHOOSE Krishna
Saranagati means taking genuine shelter of Krishna. It is not only saying, “Krishna, I surrender to You.” It is reflected in our daily choices, reactions and attitude.
We can remember the six limbs through one simple word: CHOOSE
C — Choose what is favourable Anukulyasya Sankalpah
Accept things that strengthen our Krishna consciousness, such as chanting, hearing, seva, devotee association and following guru and sastra.
H — Hold back from what is unfavourable Pratikulyasya Varjanam
Avoid habits, desires and associations that weaken our bhakti or take us away from Krishna.
O — Open your heart to Krishna’s protection Rakshishyatiti Vishvasah
When difficulties come, keep faith that Krishna is protecting and guiding us, even when we cannot understand the situation.
O — Offer your dependence to Krishna Goptritve Varanam
Do your best, but remember that Krishna is ultimately our maintainer. Make the effort, without carrying the burden of thinking everything depends only on you.
S — See yourself as Krishna’s Atma Nik shepah
Move from “Krishna is mine” to “I am Krishna’s.” Use our time, abilities and resources in His service.
E — Embrace humility Karpanyam
Recognise that whatever we have is ultimately Krishna’s mercy. Humility means remembering, “I am not independent. I need Krishna.”
Saranagati becomes real when we choose Krishna, depend on Krishna, serve Krishna and remain humble before Krishna. Hare Krishna
