When a person is caught in the turmoil of a false scandal, the first instinct is often to defend, react, or suffer silently. But according to Swami Prakashanand Saraswati, the Bhagavad Gita teaches us a different path, one rooted in detachment, devotion, and deep self-awareness.
Swamiji explains that the mind becomes restless when it is overly concerned with the opinions of others. A scandal often activates this weakness. One becomes entangled in fear, anger, and anxiety, and forgets the soul’s eternal connection with Krishn. But the Gita reminds us that these reactions come from ignorance of our real self, we are not the body, not the ego, but the divine soul.
In moments of slander, Swamiji urges us to detach from the outer noise and return to the truth within. He says that the pain of scandal is temporary, but the spiritual opportunity it brings is eternal. It pushes us to surrender the ego, purify the heart, and develop true vairagya (detachment), not indifference, but clarity in the face of illusion.
“A real devotee does not seek justice from the world. He surrenders to the justice of God, who knows every intention and every truth.”
— Swami Prakashanand Saraswati
Even righteous indignation is a trap if it pulls us away from the remembrance of Krishn. Swamiji warns that the desire to prove oneself, even when innocent, can be rooted in ego. The Gita teaches equanimity, to remain undisturbed by both insult and praise. This balance comes only through devotion and inner discipline.
In one of his Gita discourses, Swamiji referenced that those who endure false accusations without resentment and with full surrender reach a unique inner freedom, a state where peace no longer depends on external validation, but on divine connection.
Conclusion
A scandal tests your public image as well as your spiritual resolve. As taught by Swami Prakashanand Saraswati, the Gita offers an answer; not by solving the scandal externally, but by purifying our inner world. Through surrender, detachment, and remembrance of Krishn, the soul rises above the noise and maintains divine peace.