A story often narrated by Swami Vivekananda
Vivekananda would share this story to critique the tendency to seek miraculous spiritual powers (Siddhis) instead of focusing on true realization.
The Boastful Yogi
A highly regarded Yogi lived near the Ganga River. He was known throughout the region for his intense practices and the rumors of the great powers he had attained.
One day, a simple Brahmin boy approached him and asked:
“Master, I have spent twelve years in deep study and poverty.
I have heard of your great powers.
How long would it take me to acquire the Siddhi to walk across this river?”
The Yogi, flattered and eager to show his greatness, replied boastfully:
“Ah, that is a great Siddhi!
If you practice diligently and follow my instructions perfectly,
you can gain the power to walk on water in twelve years.”
The Boatman’s Wisdom
The Brahmin boy thanked the Yogi and walked back toward the riverbank, disheartened at the thought of another twelve years of austerity.
A humble boatman who had overheard the conversation smiled and said:
“Why do you look so sad, young one?
Would you like me to take you across?”
The boy nodded.
The boatman charged him just one penny and rowed him across the Ganga in five minutes.
The Final Lesson
As the Brahmin stepped onto the opposite bank, he looked back at the Yogi and suddenly understood the profound absurdity of the boast.
Vivekananda would conclude:
“For the price of a penny and five minutes of effort,
the boatman achieves the same result
that the Yogi seeks through twelve years of rigorous practice.
What a waste of life!
True religion is not about acquiring powers or performing miracles —
it is about manifesting the purity, strength, and love already within the soul.
Don’t chase powers; chase God.”
This story reminds us that if spiritual practices do not manifest practical goodness, strength, and selflessness — they become hollow pursuits that distract from the real goal.
Source : The incident is a classic parable often attributed to Swami Vivekananda in his lectures on Raja Yoga and Karma Yoga.
Vedik Mind 