Questions
The practice
What is Satya Sadhna?
Silent meditation, learned from your own experience, taught in 10-day on-campus retreats at Nal and Kheyada. It is a structured, disciplined way of meditating, with the aim of discovering one's true self and living a happy, balanced and peaceful life.
What is its foundation?
Satya Sadhna is rooted in the teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankar, and is taught by Param Pujya Gurudev Shri Pujyaji Shri Jin Chandra Suriji Maharajsahab, the present Acharya of the Khartargacch. The lineage and its Jain foundation are described on the Lineage page.
What is taught on the course?
The practice unfolds in four parts: Sadachar (right conduct), Swash Darshan (observing the breath), Satya Darshan (seeing the truth within, with equanimity) and Maitri (friendliness towards all living beings).
Do I have to be Jain, or follow any religion, to attend?
No. Courses are open to anyone who sincerely wishes to learn and is willing to follow the course conduct, whatever their background or faith.
How do I continue the practice after the course?
Join the daily online sittings on Zoom; ask the Kendra on WhatsApp or by email for the details. At home, sit at the same times each day in a quiet spot and practise as taught on the course. The Daily practice page has more.
The 10-day course
How do I apply, and what happens next?
Apply online from the course dates page. You will need a photograph, your photo ID details and an emergency contact. Your application reaches the centre, which contacts you on WhatsApp, by phone or by email to confirm your place.
Who are “old students”?
Those who have completed a 10-day course with Satya Sadhna Kendra. Courses marked “Old students only” are open to them; everyone begins with a 10-day course.
Why does the course last ten days?
The practice is taught step by step and deepens from one day to the next. Ten days of continuous practice in silence gives enough time to learn it from your own experience.
What does a day on the course look like?
The morning bell rings at 4:00 AM and lights go out at 8:30 PM. In between are meditation and group sittings in the hall, and video discourses in the morning and evening, with breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner at set hours and rest between. The teacher is available for counselling from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and to meet from 1:30 to 2:00 PM. The full timetable is on the 10-Day Course page.
In what language is the course taught?
Instructions are given in Hindi. If you need help in another language, ask the centre when you apply.
What does silence include?
Participants keep complete silence: no talking, gestures or written notes with other participants. You may speak to the teacher about the practice.
Can I keep my phone? How will my family reach me in an emergency?
Phones, laptops, books and writing materials are handed in for safekeeping and returned at the end of the course. In an emergency, your family can reach you through the centre's phone number.
Can I leave before the course ends?
Please plan to stay for the whole course, since the practice builds from day to day. If an emergency arises, speak to the course management.
Will I be able to manage ten days?
Most people who come with sincere willingness and follow the conduct complete the course. The rhythm of the day carries you, the teacher is there to guide you, and the course management helps with practical needs.
Health and suitability
Is the course a treatment for illness?
No. Satya Sadhna is a training in meditation, not a medical or psychological treatment. If you are receiving treatment, please continue it and mention it to the centre when you apply.
I am going through a difficult time. Is now the right time to come?
Please talk to the centre before applying. Ten days of silence and continuous practice can be demanding, and the centre can help you decide whether this is the right time.
Can I attend if I am pregnant?
Please mention your pregnancy when you apply. The centre will advise you, and any adjustments you need will be discussed with you.
I can't sit cross-legged. Can I still attend?
Yes. Back-rests and chairs are available for those who need them.
Is there anyone who should check before applying?
If you have a serious physical or mental health condition, are pregnant, or take regular medication, mention it to the centre before the course so they can advise you.
What food is served?
Simple vegetarian meals. Mention any medical diet when you apply.
Centres and travel
What is the accommodation like?
Simple shared accommodation, with separate arrangements for men and women.
When should I arrive, and when does the course end?
Arrive in the afternoon of Day 1, the first date of the course. On the morning after the course’s last date, sadhaks may leave after the first morning sitting.
What should I bring?
Loose, modest, comfortable clothes for the whole course, a shawl or light blanket for sitting, toiletries and any medicines you need, a torch and a water bottle. Leave valuables, books and electronics at home.
How do I reach the centres?
Each centre’s address and Google Maps location are on the Travel and arrival page, and on the centre’s own page.
Donations
How much does the course cost?
Every course is offered freely; there is no charge. Courses are sustained by the donations of past sadhaks, given in gratitude so that others may sit.
Who can donate?
Donations are made by old students, those who have completed a course, to support the running of the centres so that courses can be offered freely to others. Donation details are on the Donate page.