Lucknow: Former IPS officer AP Maheshwari captivated the audience with his profound insights into the ‘Art of Dying', a philosophy of transformation, detachment and spiritual renewal, at the Metaphor Lucknow Litfest in Lucknow on Sunday.
Maheshwari, who retired as DG from CRPF, began by likening life to a flowing river—seemingly constant but perpetually changing.
"Cells within us die and regenerate every moment, embodying the cycle of death and rebirth," he explained, emphasising the importance of embracing impermanence.
"Clinging to permanence leads to suffering, but learning to let go fosters inner harmony," he added.
Drawing from the teachings of his father, a devotee of the Santmat philosophy, Maheshwari referenced Kabir's poetry to underscore the need to shed ego and material desires for spiritual freedom. He reflected on Kabir's poignant line, "Jhini Jhini Bini Chadariya" (delicately woven fabric), symbolising the fragility and transience of life.
He explored how global religious philosophies echo similar themes. He pointed to Christ's resurrection, Hazrat Ibrahim's sacrifice, and Shiva's Tandav as metaphors for transcending attachments to achieve higher consciousness.
Maheshwari delved into profound ideas, including embracing life's challenges with tolerance and acceptance, the art of letting go to move beyond past limitations, and aligning life with spiritual growth through self-awareness. He reinterpreted classical tales like Draupadi's humiliation in the Mahabharata, highlighting its lesson on detachment from worldly bonds, and Kabir's teachings, which serve as a guide to achieving inner calm and bliss.
Maheshwari outlined three guiding principles for a meaningful existence: Dawa (remedy): Addressing life's challenges with practical solutions. Dua (prayer): Offering help and blessings to those in need. Daya (compassion): Aligning with a higher creative force.
The event concluded with a mesmerising performance of Kabir's Shabad by classical singer Astha Goswami from Vrindavan. Her soulful rendition encapsulated the evening's spiritual essence, leaving the audience reflective and inspired.
Through his thought-provoking words, Maheshwari illuminated the path to understanding the intricate balance between living and dying, urging attendees to embrace life with awareness and purpose.
All this is dealt with in detail in his book "A Cut Above The Normal: Achieving Excellence in Life and Career."