TAMASIKA AKHANDA KIIRTANA

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Posting: Tamasika Akhanda Kiirtana;
(2) Trailder Quote: Way to Bring People into Ananda Marga;
(3) Prabhat Samgiita #1103;

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (***).

== TAMASIKA AKHANDA KIIRTANA ==

Namaskar,
This entire letter is related with akhanda kiirtana and its sentient practice.

BABA’S APPROVED APPROACH: SENTIENT KIIRTANA AT DMC

Under Baba’s divine guidance at DMC kiirtana was always done in dharmic fashion and the sanctity and speciality of kiirtana was always strictly maintained, never sacrificed or compromised in any way.

In this regard, in particular, during all the DMC programs, males and females did not sing kiirtana together at the same time. Rather kiirtana was always done separately; and surely everyone who attended DMC remembers this. When the males would sing, the females would practice meditation. And when the females would sing kiirtana, the males would engage in spiritual practice. This arrangement helped ensure that a strong and sentient vibration was created that would allow the mind to easily flow upwards and become more elevated, by Baba’s grace.

EVERYTHING IS SEPARATE IN ANANDA MARGA

We have to remember that Baba has arranged life in Ananda Marga where we we maintain our sanctity by adhering to certain codes of conduct, not by compromising with our values. In the realm of male-female relations, our proper standard is separation, not free and sensuous mixing of the sexes.

Baba has mandated that everything in Ananda Marga should be separate: For example WWD, our relief activities (AMURTEL), reportings, social service projects, LFT trainings, etc. There are all separate along gender lines.

Here is a more complete list for your review:

1. Jagrtis are not shared between males and females for staying over or for office work.
2. Co-education is not practiced with students above 8 or 10 years of age, i.e. or above the age of puberty.
3. During dharmacakra, seminar, and classes, sadhana is done in distinctly different rows.
4. The organisation itself has an entire separate wing for females, WWD or Women’s Welfare Department.
5. Prout, AMURT, VSS etc also have separate sections for males and females.
6. Reporting is done separately.
7. LFT, Tattvika, and Acarya training is separate for males and females.
8. In-Charges are not mixed. Males are in-charges of males and females of females.
Note: Only in Central Office will the head of WWD be controlled by the General Secretary.
9. During DMS, kaoshikii was also performed separately. And still this practice is maintained for DMS.
10. Females do guard duty for females, and males for males; it is not mixed.
11. Akhanda kiirtana is done in a separate manner.
12. Madhur Sadhana is done according to gender, not with the opposite sex.
13. In any gathering, females & males do not participate together for games and sports.
14. All public processions are organised keeping males and females separate.
15. And there are so many systems in place that ensure strict separation of the sexes.

Furthermore, in Caryacarya Baba guides us that the more separation there is between males and females, the better it is. (1)

OVERSEAS STYLE OF MIXED-GENDER AKHANDA KIIRTANA

Unfortunately what is going on nowadays in akhanda kiirtana sessions at some overseas retreats is just opposite to this. Because at these akhanda kiirtana programs males and females are dancing together. Here ‘together’ does not merely mean that the females and males are together in the same place.

Rather in reference to overseas akhanda kiirtana, the term ‘together’ together means that males and females get completely intertwined – even smushed next to each other – where males and females are touching and pressing up against one another. This severely disturbs and compromises the whole experience of singing akhanda kiirtana.

For those who haven’t seen it, here is a descriptive account of what happens in a typical overseas-style akhanda kiirtana program.

The females form one circle around the puja table which is placed in the middle of the room. And then directly surrounding the female circle is a circle of males. In this way, dozens and dozens of females and males are dancing extremely close by, right next to each other in an enclosed environment.

At this gender-mixed, akhanda kiirtana program, invariably bumping, rubbing, and brushing occurs between members of the opposite sex. Because there is an inner circle of females and an outer circle of males and everyone is moving round and round, so both circles tend to lose their shape and some females rub up against the brothers circle, and likewise some males brush up into the female circle. In that way various types of physical contact happens. Because initially people try to close their eyes, dance, sing, and walk around the akhanda kiirtana circle – all at the same time. In that approach, members of the opposite sex end up knocking into and rubbing up against one another. This happens commonly in the daytime and even more during the nighttime akhanda kiirtana when the room is darker. In that case varieties of touching is going on between male and females, especially when it is crowded.

WHAT EFFECT THIS HAS

The basic idea is that if 2 brothers bump into each other during an akhanda kiirtana session it is pardonable and not quite so detrimental to one’s mental flow. The same is the case if two sisters touch. But when males and females touch and inadvertently rub or bump into one another during akhanda kiirtana that is completely disruptive to the flow. That is why a growing number of overseas margiis are feeling suffocated by this type of akhanda kiirtana program. Because the margiis are involved in trying to elevate the mind and prepare the mind for sadhana, yet in our akhanda kiirtana program various types of touching and bumping is going on – as well as other distractions – which degrade the mind.

On the one hand, there is the touching problem between members of the opposite sex and then there are other issues. Because in these akhanda kiirtana sessions if any brother tries to look at Baba’s photo they end up seeing so many females. Because in between the puja table and the brother’s circle is the unbroken chain of dancers in the female circle. In that case, Baba’s photo is virtually blocked by the female line. And if a male tries to see that photo there is a swirling movement of females; and instead of seeing Baba that male will lay their eyes on the faces of so many females.

A similar type of distraction occurs for those females who wish to exit the akhanda kiirtana circle in order to do sadhana. Here also a problem occurs because they are surrounded by males. And when the akhanda kiirtana is very energetic, females will try to find an opening whereby they can sneak through the male circle. But often one accident or near accident occurs where the members of the opposite sex collide.

Other associated difficulties also arise. But whatever the nature or specific details of the problem, the result is the same. Due to a flawed approach of akhanda kiirtana, one’s ideation and concentration get affected and in that way the mind is not able to get purified – rather it is degraded by persistent contact with the opposite sex etc.

ONE OR OTHER WAY MIND IS COERCED TO GO IN NEGATIVE DIRECTION

When both genders are dancing side by side in akhanda kiirtana and they are taking great care not to bump one another, then they are not ideating on Parama Parama. Rather they are thinking, “Do no bump the opposite sex, do not bump the opposite sex.” After all, mind is one so the person doing kiirtana cannot simultaneously think of “not bumping the opposite sex” and ideate on Parama Purusa. It is not possible. Only when the akhanda kiirtan is gender separated can sadhakas focus exclusively on Parama Purusa because then they need not think about “not bumping the opposite sex.”

For this reason, the mixed gender akhanda kiirtan degrades the mind and one cannot concentrate fully on Parama Purusa. That is why it is tamasika. Because most of the time, in one way or another, one is forced to think about the opposite sex, not Parama Purusa.

WHO CAN FORGET THE MIXED-GENDER TRAIN

Here we should bear in mind that the dogma brought into overseas akhanda kiirtana is not just of a single type. Rather it ebbs and flows according to the so-called creativity and energy of the injector of dogma.

For instance, at one New Year’s akhanda kiirtana at Ananda Kanan (NY), a senior male member physically linked together with many young 14 to 20 year old females in tow behind him. That means in the akhanda kiirtana itself he formed one ‘train’. This senior male created one line where all the males and females alternately held onto the shoulders, or waist, or hips, or hair of the person in front. In that way, one male-female train was formed right in the middle of the kiirtana hall. Like this, various off-shoots can occur.

BUMPING INTO SOMEONE FROM THE OPPOSITE SEX RUINS THE SPIRITUAL FLOW

So in our current overseas style of doing akhanda kiirtana, the purpose is not solved – rather the sentient practice of akhanda kiirtana is severely compromised. Because the main idea of akhanda kiirtana is to go close to Parama Purusa, but our current format of overseas-style akhanda kiirtana undermines this great endeavor. Because one has to be aware about not bumping into someone from the opposite sex and other related problems – in which case ideating on Parama Purusa cannot be done.

When the mind is distracted and not focused then true japa cannot be performed.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, “The mere repetition of mantra will not serve any purpose unless there is a rhythmic parallelism between incantative flow (the flow of the mantra) and the mental flow (the flow of the mind). To perform japakriya’ while harbouring harmful thoughts is futile. One can only attain success in japakriya’ if all the psychic propensities are diverted towards the deep spirit of the mantra.” (2)

“The mind runs in one direction towards its object of fascination; its object of ideation lies in another direction…In the midst of such choas ideation on Parama Purus’a is impossible, even in billions of kalpas [ages].” (3)

By these guidelines, it is clear that we should take care in the way in which we organize our akhanda kiirtana programs so that the environment is most conducive toward focusing on Ista. Unfortunately, the way things are now, one’s mind gets rerouted towards sensual thoughts. Even if one does not wish this to happen, that is the practical result when males and females are bumping into one another. Then there is no question of having proper ideation on the kiirtana mantra.

All in all, the overseas style of akhanda kiirtana is artificial culture, or pseudo-culture, or fake culture. Because according to Baba, proper culture means raising the mind to higher values – not towards the baser propensities. When talking about culture Baba says that culture means that expression which motivates the mind toward subtler aspects, introversial. Tragically, this does not happen in our overseas-style, akhanda kiirtana programs.

PROPOSAL FOR OUR OVERSEAS RETREATS:

ONE GENDER SING AND DANCE KIIRTANA, AND THE OTHER GENDER WILL DO SADHANA

Hence at our overseas sectorial retreats etc, a proper solution is needed. And the best example to follow is Baba’s. Here we have the opportunity to advance ahead by following the exact same approach which Baba Himself has approved. Namely, when males are dancing and singing kiirtana, then females can sit at a moderate distance and do sadhana. Thereafter, we can switch. Females will sing and dance kiirtana, and the males will be do sadhana.

On multiple accounts – i.e. for many reasons – alternating sadhana and kiirtana between males and females is in concert with Baba’s system. The main reason being that Baba Himself has guided us that we should do like this. And in His presence it was done in this very fashion, separately between males and females. And by that way the whole sanctity of the DMC was maintained – sentient and pure.

Thus, during our akhanda kiirtana program at sectorial retreats etc, then males and females can sing kiirtana separately or alternately, as described above. Then the problem of bumping into or touching members of the opposite sex will be eradicated.

Overall males and females can still participate in the same program in the same hall, but kiirtana would be sung and performed separately. In that way it would be consistent with the spirit of what was done during DMC and our other Ananda Marga programs.

ANOTHER BENEFIT:

GOSSIP TIME TURNS INTO SADHANA TIME

It is sometimes seen that some margiis & Wts skip their sadhana during this type of overseas-style akhanda kiirtana. Because just they were moving around the circle with members of the opposite sex, and after a while someone might leave the akhanda kiirtana – without doing sadhana. Just they casually walk away. They may go outside the hall and gossip, or attend to mundane activities, or go for sports or music rehearsal, or get food or have some snack. So after kiirtana they fail to do sadhana. And they miss out on all the benefits and the overall environment gets disturbed.

Any sadhaka more established in sixteen points etc does not do like this. But some few others haphazardly depart from the akhanda kiirtana circle and skip their sadhana.

So by adopting the sentient kiirtana system that is approved by Baba, then this problem of skipping meditation will be easily resolved since in the sentient style of kiirtana, sadhana is always done afterwards. That is Baba’s method.

Taken altogether, at our overseas akhanda kiirtana programs we should seriously consider refining our approach from rajasik to sentient. That will act as a special boon for one and all.

For all these reasons discussed above, it is clear that mixed gender akhanda kiirtana is tamasika because in so many various ways it degrades the mind.

KIIRTANA PLAYS A SPECIAL ROLE:

INCREMENTAL ELEVATION OF MIND

According to Baba, kiirtana plays one special role. It often happens that when one sits for sadhana the mind does not like to initially move in that direction. Some build-up is needed. It is just like if you want to climb the steps or drive your motorcycle then must progress systematically – immediately you cannot reach up to the 10th step and immediately you cannot put the motorcycle in the top gear. Rather one must proceed incrementally.

The same approach Baba has created with our spiritual practices. Because when the mind is involved in worldly things then starting sadhana instantaneously is not easy. So Baba has given different steps: bhajan, kiirtana, sadhana etc.

After singing bhajans the mind gets a little pointed and thereafter kiirtana is done. During bhajans people usually sit, but in kiirtana everyone stands up and dances; one’s whole existence becomes involved. The basic guideline is that during kiirtana all the organs are engaged. Aspirants are chanting the kiirtana mantra with their mouth, seeing Baba’s photo with their eyes, hearing the Baba-Nam-Kevalam mantra with their ears, plus the arms are raised in the air in surrenders and one’s feet are dancing according to the system to awaken and energise the sahasrara cakra.

In this way, all the limbs and organs are involved: the ears, mouth, hands, eyes etc. In this condition the mind has no scope to run away – and if it tries then it gets redirected and again focuses on the Goal. That is the specialty of kiirtana.

So if kiirtana is done independently or according to the system as practiced in India then fine, but in collective overseas kiirtana certain obstacles are created that hinder the entire kiirtana practice.

KIIRTANA IS TO PREPARE THE MIND FOR BETTER SADHANA

One other great benefit is that by doing kiirtana before sadhana, then sadhana will be greatly improved. In this way Baba guides us that after kiirtana sadhana should always be done. Because kiirtana is one special way to prepare the mind for sadhana.

“I have already said, and I repeat it again, that now the time has come to manifest the glory of kiirtana. And I also want to say further that those who wish to attain spiritual progress in their sadhana will have to do more and more kiirtana. By kiirtana, the mind becomes pure, and with this pure mind, one can do sadhana.” (4)

“kiirtana [is] the most essential aid for sadhana.” (5)

“If the mind is made pure even for five minutes by kiirtana, then if you do sadhana for only five minutes, your sadhana will be very good – you will surely attain spiritual progress.” (6)

By this, anyone can see that kiirtana is one special practice and if done properly then the mind gets purified; but if done incorrectly then that purification process does not occur. And one will also miss out on improving their sadhana – that will not occur.

SENSUOUS MIXING OF THE SEXES ON THE STAGE

When our entire Ananda Marga way of life is separated along gender lines, it is shameful that today we are allowing the free and sensuous mixing of the sexes on the stage during our RAWA cultural programs. This sets a bad example for those young dancers and thrusts them into the world of pseudo-culture. Plus it is degrading for the audience to watch. It is a negative scene from all directions.

And like this in all aspects of life in Ananda Marga, wherever we look or examine the situation it is clear that the activities and dealings is distinctly separate with regards to males and females.

BECAUSE IT ‘FEELS GOOD’ IS NO JUSTIFICATION

When people do something just because it “feels good” then often they have divorced themselves from higher ideals. Because only they do that thing because it “feels good” – they do not use their logic or rationality. But they continue ahead in their ways regardless. This may be the case with why in overseas sectors this mixed akhanda kiirtana between members of the opposite sex is going on.

“Whatever human beings do, motivated by A’tma-Sukha Tattva, is for the sake of pleasure. This principle of selfish pleasure rests on dogma…They observe that these dogmas are based on A’tma-Sukha Tattva; but they think, “I don’t care whether it does good or harm to others, because at last I have enjoyed some pleasure!” Being motivated by this idea, they enslave themselves to dogmas. In the civilized world, even educated people knowingly follow dogmas because they have a desire in the back of their minds to attain some mundane pleasure.” (7)

Those who follow atma-sukha tattva can never lead or serve the society.

KIIRTANA MAKES ONE VICTORIOUS

“Kiirtana is not only helpful in the realm of spirituality, but also in all spheres of life; it banishes physical troubles and tribulations as well. Kiirtana fights against all mundane difficulties and finally one becomes victorious.” (8)

ONE WHO DOES NOT DO THIS WASTES ONE’S LIFE

“He has given you your organs. Utilize them for Him. With your voice sing His name, His praise, His kiirtana. With your mind think of Him. One who does not do this wastes one’s life. And where people have only human frame but not human mind tell them this message.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 30, You Live According to God’s Desire)

MA IN 700 LANGUAGES WILL NOT MAKE IT

“The mind will have to be made one-pointed through sadhana, and the best means for achieving one-pointedness is kiirtana. Kiirtaniiyá sadá harih. Human beings should always do the kiirtana of the Lord. When one does kiirtana the mind becomes one-pointed within a short time. Then one sits for sadhana and while sitting there is progress, the mind becomes spotless, everything is gained. The human being will have to rush towards Parama Puruśa. Nobody can become a jinánii by reading books. A person earns real knowledge by rushing towards Parama Puruśa and coming into his close proximity, and one who earns this real knowledge attains liberation or salvation. For this, one who does not know their abc’s will make it, and one who has an MA in 700 languages will not make it. This is a different world, a different matter altogether. An intelligent person, therefore, will move forward single-mindedly on the path of sadhana, and in order to prepare his mind for sadhana that person will certainly do a little kiirtana. I have said this before in several places and I am saying it again: kiirtaniiyah sadá harih, that is, one must do the kiirtana of the Lord, the kiirtana of Parama Puruśa. And why must one do the kiirtana of Parama Puruśa? Because one of his names is Hari. Hari means: harati pápaḿ ityarthe harih, that is, he who steals the sins of the unit being is Hari.” (9)

ALL THE ORGANS ARE KEPT PREOCCUPIED WITH THE DIVINE

“When kiirtana was first invented, the psycho-philosophy behind it was this: at the time of kiirtana, the vocal cord sings, the ears hear, and the hands and feet dance, and thus all the organs are kept preoccupied with the divine. They are not allowed to move wherever they want but are kept engaged. There is a popular Indian superstition that when ghosts are not kept busy they break the necks of their prey. Similarly, if the sensory and motor organs are not kept engaged in the attainment of the divine, they may lead one astray. Kiirtana is therefore most beneficial as it keeps all the organs fully engaged in a spiritual pursuit. However, while doing kiirtan, if one listens to anything else, the mind will be diverted. Suppose, while doing kiirtana, one lady asks another, “Well sister, what did you cook today?” This will also be heard by the practitioners of kiirtana. To prevent these undesirable sounds from being heard, it is advisable to play some instrument during kiirtana. A mrdauṋga [a kind of drum] or some similar instrument should be used, but one should not play any heavy-sounding instrument like a d́hák [a large drum played with sticks], a d́hol [a loud drum] or a gong. The mind prefers to hear a sweet sound, like that of the mrdauṋga, than a harsh sound. Some time ago I mentioned that Bhola Mayra said that when the cookawing of crows and the beating of drums stop, human ears get some relief. People do not like to hear such harsh, unpleasant sounds. The sound of the mrdauṋga may not be perfect, but it has one quality: it is very sweet. Thus, whenever a distracted mind hears the sweet music of a mrdauṋga, it returns to the proper place. A remarkable science lies in kiirtana.” (10)

WHAT DO YOU GAIN BY DOING KIIRTANA?

“What do you gain by doing kiirtana? Several sense organs become engaged. The tongue is occupied. So during that time you won’t have thoughts like, “I will eat this, eat that;” no kind of greed will remain. The sense of taste and taste buds are obstructed. The ears are busy hearing the kiirtana, so they have no scope to go elsewhere. The mind is always thinking of that, so it also has no scope to go elsewhere. And if kiirtana is combined with dance then one’s attention is directed to the rhythm of the dance. As a result of the dance, hormones are secreted from the glands. So under no circumstances can the mind degenerate. There is no way for it to go down. This is the way of the wise.” (11)

KIIRTANA AVERTS THE DEGRADATION OF THE HUMAN MIND:

WHENEVER YOU FIND TIME, DO KIIRTANA LOUDLY

“Kiirtaniiyah sadáharih one should always sing the glory of the Lord. It is the frailty of human beings that when a few of them group together, they indulge in criticizing or mudslinging others. This leads to psychic degradation. In fact people should perform such actions which will lead to psychic elevation, actions which give the mind no scope for degeneration. The easiest way to do this is to sing the glories of the Supreme Entity whose very thought automatically elevates the mind. Chanting the name of Parama Puruśa aloud is called kiirtana; For, the vibration created in the atmosphere by kiirtana will influence others also. But if one’s mental ideation is conveyed only to Parama Puruśa without affecting other human beings, this is called bhajana. So bhajana is purely personal; it has no collective aspect. Kiirtana is more beneficial than bhajana, and hence it is said kiirtaniiyah sadá harih: whenever you find time, do kiirtana loudly and you will never become degenerated because by chanting the Lord’s holy name the mind remains elevated. Mudslinging and criticizing is thereby stopped forever, and hence kiirtana averts the degradation of the human mind. You should always remember that in every sphere of life – social, political, economic, psychic, and spiritual – you should always follow the principle of “taking the opposite stance”: there is no exception to this rule. Victory will surely be yours.” (12)

We should not follow the aforementioned tamasika akhanda kiirtana style but rather a sentient gender-separated manner of doing akhanda kiirtana.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Ramesh

REFERENCES:
1. Reference: CC part 1, Chapter 24
2. Discourses on Tantra – 2
3. Discourses on Tantra – 2
4. NHNS-2
5. Bliss of Kiirtana, p.5
6. NHNS-2
7. NH-LOI, ’87, p.37
8. Bliss of Kiirtana, p.8
9. Ananda Vacnamrtam – 9, Discrimination in Rights
10. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 8, Sádhaná, Abhidhyána and Kiirtana
11. AV-10, The Supreme Entity – the Non-Doer
12. AMIWL-11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle

The section below demarcated by asterisks is an entirely different topic,
completely unrelated to the above material. It stands on its own as a point of interest.

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Way to Bring People into Ananda Marga

“Ánanda Márgiis should never compel people to follow Ánanda Márga philosophy. Rather, they should always inspire people along the path of spirituality by encouraging selfless service, sacrifice, good conduct, spiritual practices, the development of all-round knowledge, etc. Ananda Marga is a comprehensive mode of living based on spirituality, and in Ananda Marga sádhaná, dhyana and japa are Atmic or Dharmic jiivika.” (Prout in Nutshell – 16, Three Types of Occupation)

Note: In Ananda Marga, we do not subscribe to the policy of forced conversions; whereas, this approach is prevalent in many of the religions where they convert their prey under the pressure of the sword or by brute force. This is especially true of the Semitic religions. They did this in the past and they are doing at present also. In Ananda Marga, we do not support that modus operendii. Rather people come to accept Ananda Marga by their own free will and desire after understanding and learning the fundamentals. A similar approach should be taken with one’s own kids also. Do not force them to participate, rather logically convince them, little by little.
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Prabhat Samgiita 1103

PS Intro: Throughout Baba’s vast collection of Prabhat Samgiita, in most songs the devotee and Parama Purusa are communicating with one another. In some of the songs the style of conversation is direct while others are indirect. When the style of expression is indirect, no one should conclude that the sadhaka is having a conversation with another sadaka. That is not at all the case. Rather, the bhakta is communicating with Parama Purusa – using indirect language.

In the below song, in the first two stanzas the sadhaka is indirectly talking to Parama Purusa. The sadhaka is expressing his feelings and referring to Parama Purusa in the third person – yet all along he understands that Parama Purusa is there – listening. It is only in the third stanza, the sadaka is addressing all of creation, with the knowledge that Parama Purusa is also listening.

“Dharmo a’ma’ri sa’thii, dharmo a’ma’ri pra’n’…” (PS 1103)

Purport:

Dharma is my eternal companion; dharma is my very life. I only accept and follow Parama Purusa Himself because I am His gift. He alone has graciously blessed me with human life. He alone has granted me my existence. It is His grace.

Since the first dawn of my life, He has been with me each and every step – in my every breath, watching, guiding, and protecting me. And only He will remain along with me until the final moment of my life. I always follow His path – His teachings – never forgetting His blessing.

O’ inhabitants of the three worlds – wherever you may be – go on singing and dancing, immersed in His divine name. Remain ensconced in His ideation – in His sweet flow, and go on singing His divine songs, i.e. singing His glory.

O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Baba, You are my eternal companion. You are always with me. Baba, I love You…

Note: In the above song, dharma means Parama Purusa. They are one and the same. Parama Purusa has countless names to reflect His infinite qualities and attributions – one of which is Dharma itself.

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Ananda Marga Is Colourful

Date: Sat, 02 Mar 2013 22:35:43
Subject: Ananda Marga Is Colourful

Baba

== ANANDA MARGA IS COLOURFUL ==

Namaskar,
Our Ananda Marga is colourful. People have entered into Ananda Marga with all kinds of mentalities, with all types of psychic tendencies, and with a diverse range of mental constitutions. To accommodate all, Baba has graciously given something for everyone. In turn, we have the opportunity to choose which approach and engagement suits us best.

Some are oriented toward the path of jinana, and some towards bhakti. Some prefer intellectual explanations, whereas other tend towards devotional understanding. Some like to sing kiirtan thinking, ‘I am overcoming all internal and external obstacles’, while others may prefer simply to ideate only on Baba.

Different minds prefer different thought ideations – and that makes the world colourful.

None should therefore think that any particular approach is the be-all, end-all. Because Baba has given and approved them all: From sadhana to microvita theory, from kiirtan to kaoshikii, from Prabhat Samgiita to sristi cakra, Baba has provided diverse explanations to appeal to the wide array of people & mentalities in our universal human family.

Hence, no one should feel pressured to adopt or limit oneself to a particular style, explanation, or reasoning. Because Ananda Margiis come in all shapes and sizes with different mental colours.

A FEW PRACTICAL EXAMPLES

Below are some clear-cut examples of how various Ananda Marga practices can be pursued in different ways.

(A) DHYANA: In dhyana, Baba has given various bhavas: Madhura bhava (lover relation), dasya bhava (Master-slave relation), vatsalya bhava (Parama Purusa as child), sakhya bhava (friend relation), and Father-son relation etc. These are all approved methods, given by Baba, for doing dhyana. However, that does not mean that every devotee must follow all of the above. Those involved in sakhya bhava may not have an iota of interest in vatsalya bhava, and vice versa. Thus every sadhaka has the power of choice: To experiment and see which one is most appropriate for their mental make-up, for their link with Parama Purusa.

(B) PRABHAT SAMGIITA: With regards to Prabhat Samgiita, some prefer to analyse and study the style of music such as the type of raga or ragini, and side by side Baba has also said that, “Prabhat Samgiita is the feeling of the heart, and the expression of the heart, and it has been written with the ink of the heart.” (1)

So it is not just music only. So these are two vastly different ways of relating with Prabhat Samgiita. And it will depend upon one’s mental characteristics as to which they prefer. Some opt for a more jinani approach, whereas others prefer the more personal and intimate manner. Everyone can choose for themselves.

(C) MICROVITA: About microvita, Baba has given vast and complex theories about this smallest energy form – the ultimate building block of this universe. Chapters and chapters can be read and studied about this scientific phenomenon. And many jinanis may spend years immersed in that approach. At the same time, in His discourse 1988 discourse, Propensities and Pramá, Baba spoke as follows:

हम जिसको “positive microvitum” कहते हैं, दरअसल यह क्या है जी ? यह तो परमपुरुष की कृपा है | हम तुम लोगों को हँसाने के लिए बोलते हैं “positive microvitum” |

Baba says, “That which I call “positive microvitum”, in reality what is it? Nothing but the grace of Parama Purus’a. I use the term “positive microvitum” to make you laugh.” (2)

So it is very clear that for the jinanis and intellectuals of Ananda Marga, they should preach the philosophy of microvita. It is a veritable science and course of study. At the same time, Baba has given devotees a different outlook. Both are important and valuable. So again, based on one’s mentality, there are a variety of ways of thinking about microvita.

(D) CREATION THEORY (Srsti Cakra): Similarly, one can think of creation theory using terms like jadasphota, pratisaincara, various tattvas, and other technical terminology, or one can simply think that, ‘He was all alone, all by Himself, so He created this vast universe’.

Thus depending on one’s mental framework, there are varieties of ways of interacting with our Ananda Marga practices and philosophy.

KAOSHIKII AND AVARTA KIIRTAN ALSO

The same can be said with regards to kaoshikii and avarta kiirtan also.

There is a very technical explanation of kaoshikii where one takes on a different ideation for each direction, and side by side one can simply think of pleasing Baba while doing their kaoshikii dance.

In avarta kiirtan also there are two diverse approaches. In a more jinani style, the aspirant can adopt different ideations for each direction. And these ideations generally focus on oneself, ‘I have purified my mind with the fire of devotion, I am the embodiment of sincerity’, etc or one can simply think of Baba and ideate on loving and pleasing Him.

Some sadhakas may like a more technical & analytical explanation and some prefer the more simple approach of pleasing Him. Personally, I prefer the latter way. I do not like to engage in all kinds of sophisticated or lengthy descriptions when dancing avarta kiirtan. Rather, I prefer Baba’s simple method of bringing the mind to sahasrara cakra and thinking of Him. But if others prefer to think, ‘I am the embodiment of sincerity’ then that is also fine. More about these technical explanations appears further down in this email.

Here, the chief point is that we should always keep in mind that Baba has given something for everyone in Ananda Marga. And we should be accepting and tolerant of all the different styles and at the same time choose a way that is most appropriate for us.

PEOPLE HAVE COME INTO ANANDA MARGA FOR DIFFERENT REASONS

After all, we have to remember that people have entered into Ananda Marga for a vast array of reasons. Some have come because they wanted to travel overseas, some have come because they could not get a job in the private sector, some have come to escape their jail sentences, some have come to find a wife or husband, some have come to get away from their wife or husband, some have come to do karma yoga, some have come to get a high post, some have come to be regarded as a high yogi, some have come to fulfill His mission (A’tma moks’a’rtham’ jagaddhita’ya ca), and some have come to please Him.

And some were born into Ananda Marga. Since their birth they have been attending Ananda Marga functions. By this way they become accustomed to Ananda Marga as a way of life, and as they grow they hold fond memories and a very sympathetic feeling to Ananda Marga.

So people enter into Ananda Marga from all kinds of backgrounds and interests. Not only that, once in Ananda Marga, people behave differently. Some are very strict to attend all organisational activities, and some come once or twice a year for big feasts and social programs. Some are very strict in sadhana, and some less so. Thus there are gradations, yet all are Ananda Margiis.

The common thread being that all hold Baba dearly as their Ista.

Thus, all are our brothers and sisters, we should embrace all, and help everyone become successful in their human life. There are various grades and we appreciate everyone.

Baba has graciously given various trades and department to appeal to the various mental colours of this grand humanity. Those with political interest can work in Prout once they enter Ananda Marga. Those with more physical stamina might involve in VSS. Those wishing to do dharma pracar will be active in SDM and HPMG (Hari Parimańd́ala Gośt́hi), and those wanting to educate and serve will be in ERAWS. And there are other departments as well ranging from the Farm department to Industry to AMURT – as well as, in many cases, their sister organisations in WWD.

Hence, there is vast scope for engagement – all depending on one’s mental tendency and proclivity.

At the same time, we know that every Ananda Margii should be ready to do everything and engage in all the sevas. This quality one gains by following 16 Points. Ultimately, sadvipras will have all the qualities. Upon entering into Ananda Marga one may not be like this, but gradually over time one grows in this way, by His grace.

PEOPLE DO SADHANA FOR VARIOUS REASONS

As there are various grades of sadhakas in Ananda Marga, people do sadhana for various reasons. Some do sadhana to impress others, some do sadhana as one requirement so that they can take their meal, some only do sadhana in public, some engage less in their sadhana program, some do sadhana for mental peace, some do sadhana for self-realisation, some do sadhana to serve and please Him. So there are various grades of sadhakas in our Marga.

Furthermore, Some like to sing kiirtan thinking that they are becoming clean and becoming a force in this universe, and some like to sing for the sole reason of loving and pleasing Parama Purusa.

Some bhaktas do not feel comfortable relying on their own unit ego. They do not like to think that ‘I am doing everything’, because they know that unit beings cannot do anything, Parama Purusa does everything.

It all depends on one’s quality of mind as Baba has created something for everyone.

Yet all along, the unifying point – regardless of one’s mental colour is that they hold Baba as their Ista. This is the binding property.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTIONS OF AVARTA KIIRTAN & KAOSHIKII

Below, are the technical descriptions of Avarta Kiirtan & Kaoshikii. And if one wishes to pursue their practice in that way they can. At the same time, no sadhaka should feel burdened that they must do their kiirtan and kaoshikii like that. Remember that Baba has explained His AM practices and philosophies in various ways to appeal to various grades of people, various standards of mind. Some are jinan oriented and some are bhakti oriented. Everyone should do what feels most comfortable for them. Baba has approved multiple ways for this very purpose: To appeal to one and all.

Here are two technical descriptions of our avarta kiirtan and kaoshikii practices. These may appeal to some whereas others may not like to be bothered by these more intricate approaches. In that case they may adopt a more simple, devotional outlook.

Then there is also the notion that as these two below descriptions are not printed in any book, then they may not be entirely accurate. If anyone has the original cassette(s) where Baba discusses these below approaches then they are requested to write this network immediately.

AVARTA KIIRTAN

1. I am the embodiment of sincerity.
2. I have innate love for Paramapurusa.
3. I have purified my mind with the fire of devotion.
4. I am overcoming all internal and external obstacles.
5. O lord, take me onto your lap.
6. I surrender my everything to you.

KAOSHIKII

VERTICAL — I am now trying to establish a link with Paramapurusa.
RIGHT– I know the right way of making request to you, Paramapurus’a.
LEFT— I know how to carry out your command
FRONT– I know how to surrender completely to you.
BACK– I am ready to undergo discomfort when trouble comes.
STEPS—Oh, lord, I am now imitating your rhythm, brining your subtle Consciousness into manifestation, into practical forms.
OVERALL IDEATION:- I, the microcosm, am establishing a link with my lord, the Nucleus of the Macrocosm.

SIMPLE DEVOTIONAL APPROACH

Some bhaktas may just prefer to sing kiirtan and dance kaoshikii with their mind immersed in Him – to serve, please, and love Him. Trying to follow all the above technical operations may verily take the mind away from being with Baba. So adopting a purely devotional stance is also alright if that is what you prefer. That freedom everyone has.

BABA HAS GIVEN ANANDA MARGA FOR ALL

Baba has graciously designed this Ananda Marga for everyone – and verily all must come under the banner of AM. For this reason Baba has given diverse ways of explaining AM practices and AM ideology. Because everyone belongs in Ananda Marga.

“Remember, until every person in the universe accepts the Ananda Marga ideology, you have no opportunity to rest.” (3)

“Now, these created beings, they being the progeny of the same father, are members of the same Universal Family. We must not forget this supreme fact.” (4)

“LOOK UPON EACH AND EVERY HUMAN BEING AS THEIR OWN KITH AND KIN”

“I have been saying for a long time that human society is a singular entity, that human society is indivisible. Human beings, because of their petty interests, prefer to remain oblivious to this truth. But one should remember that to forget altogether and to remain forgetful are not the same. So many near and dear ones, so many kith and kin, whom you had loved so dearly in the past are no longer in the world. Have you forgotten them? No, you have not. You remain forgetful of them.” (5)

“All the beings of this universe are the kith and kin of one another. No one is despicable. All are equally respectable and entitled to equal love and affection. No problem is to be ignored as an individual or group affair. Every problem is to be considered as the collective problem of universal humanity and is to be resolved collectively and resolved it must be. Let it be the vocal panorama of the newer world of today – the continuous musical notes behind the movement of Neohumanism.” (6)

“Parama Puruśa looks deep into the inner thoughts and feelings of human beings. He is omniscient, forever watching throughout the creation those who are meditating upon Him with undivided attention, and those who have been patiently waiting with an unwavering mind to realize Him. These are expressions of those with an integral outlook. Only such people, irrespective of caste, colour, creed, community, national or geographical barrier, etc. can look upon each and every human being as their own kith and kin. They are free of all discrimination. They even treat the animals and plants as being intimately related to themselves.” (7)

“Those who want to promote the welfare of all human beings, remaining above all sorts of parochial sentiments, have no alternative but to embrace universalism with their heart and soul – there is no other way. As universalism is totally devoid of any characteristic of ism, it is not proper to depict universalism as an ism. If everyone is looked upon as one’s own, no one remains beyond the periphery of one’s kith and kin. Naturally, then, there is no scope for violence, envy, narrowness, etc.” (8)

PROGENY OF PARAMA PURUŚA

“I have also said that sins are just like the dust that settles on our clothes. By shaking the clothing, the dust will vanish. This simple action can be done by everyone. Ananda Marga has clarified that human beings are the progeny of Parama Puruśa and are thus the objects of His love and affection. Whatever might be the nature of the sins they commit, they will never be deprived of His affection. Parama Puruśa may scold them, but He can never hate them. He will simply shake the dust off their clothes and take them onto His lap. So the most important thing is complete surrender. People should always remember that they are the progeny of Parama Puruśa. That is enough.” (9)

FORMATION OF UNIVERSAL HUMAN SOCIETY

“It is not proper for one particular class to dominate society. If one class is dominant, it will surely continue to exploit the other classes. Hence Ananda Marga wants a society without divisions or discrimination, where everyone will be entitled to equal opportunities and equal rights.” (10)

“Remember, Ananda Marga is a man-making mission. Both quantity and quality are important. Everyone should be free to join Ananda Marga, to take part in social functions, etc., but only those established in Yama and Niyama may be given any position to work in society.” (11)

“Social philosophy of Ananda Marga advocates the development of the integrated personality of the individual, and also the establishment of world fraternity, inculcating in human psychology a Cosmic sentiment. The Marga advocates progressive utilization of mundane and supramundane factors of the Cosmos. The society needs a stir for life, vigour and progress, and for this Ananda Marga advocates the Progressive Utilization Theory (Prout), meaning thereby progressive utilization of all factors. Those who support this principle may be termed “Proutists”. (12)

ÁNANDA MÁRGA IS THAT PATH OF PROGRESS

“There is no other alternative except Ánanda Márga to sustain human beings in their joint endeavours. Why?”
“Ans.: – A united human society is the prerequisite for the development of civilization. The collective desire for survival ensures society’s meaningful existence. The society is a dynamic entity and its survival indicates its inherent dynamism. When a group of people bound by the ties of a common ideology move together along a particular path, inviting fellow humans to join them to share their common joys and sorrows, theirs is a real movement; they are destined to be successful.”
“In this universe of rapid temporal, spatial and personal change, no specific economic, political, or religious structure can be the permanent aim of humanity. This is because theories are born in a particular temporal, spatial and economic context. People can move along the path of eternal progress only (a) by accepting the Cosmic Entity, who is beyond time, place and person, as the aim of life and (b) by continuing to do all their worldly actions while moving along that path towards Him.”
“Ánanda Márga is that path of progress, and that is why Ánanda Márga is the only alternative for the preservation of human existence and civilization. The external rituals, the so-called dharmas, are not dharma but mere religion. They are subject to change depending on time, place and person. By manifesting distinctions within themselves and outside themselves (such as the differences like vijatiya bheda, svajátiya bheda and svagáta bheda), religions, like other relative factors have invited the repression of humanity by creating dogmas, bloodshed and similar evils. Thus religion cannot bring peace to humanity.” (13)

WE WILL BIND EVERYBODY WITH THE THREAD OF LOVE

“We will dye each and every bud with the light of knowledge. No one will stay away. We will bind everybody with the thread of love and create a garland of incomparable beauty. No one will stay behind, none will be thrown at the bottom. All will exist with kith and kin with their minds full of sweetness and tenderness for all.” (14)

Namaskar,
in Him
Gaunga

REFERENCES:
1. 02 Jan ’83
2. 1 January 1988 DMC, Anandanagar
3. Caryacarya – 2
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 14
5. A few Problems Solved – 3, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 3
6. Ananda Vanii #58
7. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell – 5, Integral and Non-Integral Outlook
8. Problems of the Day #18
9. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 5, A Few of Tantra’s Special Characteristics
10. Subhasita Samgraha – 1, The Evolution of Society
11. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 31, The Conduct of an Ácárya
12. Idea & Ideology, The Cosmic Brotherhood
13. Tattva Kaomudii -1, Questions and Answers on Ananda Marga Philosophy, #53
14. Prabhat Samgiita #5018, Gurukul Song

Baba

“Aungane mor na’hi ele jadi, maner mukure bha’sio…” (PS 3019)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, if You do not come in my courtyard – my home, then please be gracious and blossom in my mental mirror. Since You have not come within the scope of my perception, then please come in my ideation. Baba, please come in the depths of my sadhana – dhyana. O’ my dearmost, You are ever-gracious; so please come. For me, You are everything; whatever You want to do is blissful for me. Baba, if You do not want to say anything, then just remain here with me smiling sweetly. Your sweet smile satiates my heart. O’ my dearmost, please be gracious and blossom in my mind.

O’ Divine Entity, in search of You, so many ages passed doing tapasya – trying to get You. So much of my time was spent doing so many practices – shravan, manan, and nidhidhyasana. But alas, I could not get You. Finally, by Your sweet touch the long, dark amavasya night has finished. Gone are the days when sadhana was just an ongoing struggle and it was difficult to move ahead. Now, by Your grace, I am advancing on the path of divinity. Baba, today, at this dawn, please dispel that cimmerian darkness from my mind with Your crimson light. Please be gracious and blossom in my heart.

Baba, in the realm of ideation, every thought is meaningful. One becomes what one thinks. That is why with firm determination I want to get You. I want You, O’ Parama Purusa, I have a deep desire to have You. You are so gracious: You have made me understand that by singing and chanting Your name, and by ideating on You, I can get You. You have told me that sadhana, kiirtan, japa, dhyana, and ideating on You is not futile. As one thinks, so one becomes. By thinking about You I will get You. That is why I go on doing all these devotional practices – in order to get You and quench my eternal thirst. Sanctifying me with the streams of Your karuna (1), shower Your causeless love upon me. O’ Parama Purusa, please be gracious and come in my mind. Baba, please remove the shadows of avidya maya from my inner abode and make me Yours. Baba, now all that is left is this one final request: Please shower Your causeless grace and sweet flow of Your divine compassion, and keep me eternally under Your loving shelter. Since eternity I have yearned for that divine love; please fulfill my eternal longing.

Baba, with my own merits and qualities I cannot get You. Please shower Your grace, keeping me always at Your lotus feet…

NOTE FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3019:

[1] Karuna: (Literally: ‘Divine Compassion’); When Parama Purus’a sees the suffering of devotees, He feels pained by their inability to move ahead because of so many problems and difficulties. In such circumstances, Parama Purusa cannot bear to watch His bhaktas go through so much struggle and strife. When devotees are helpless and trying hard to progress but their pathway is completely obstructed and they cannot advance in their sadhana or any sphere of life – overcome by various complexes, bondages, and obstacles – then a feeling of deep, deep empathy develops in the mind of Parama Purusa. This feeling or mind-set is karun’a bha’va. He feels He must rescue them immediately. And when He steps in and helps that is His showering of His karun’a. In that way, Parama Purus’a comes. With His immense feeling of karuna’, He blesses His devotees and relieves them of their pain and suffering. This is nothing but His divine karuna’: Wherein Parama Purus’a cares for the devotees and removes their troubles and hindrances so that once again they can move ahead. Whereas, with krpa (grace), the bhakta is not suffering but even then Parama Purusa is bestowing His blessing. It is just like if a baby is sick and with great empathy the mother brings the sick baby on her lap and feeds the baby; that is karuna. And if that same baby is not at all sick, and mother still brings that baby on her lap and for feeding, then that is krpa. When out of empathy Parama Purusa lovingly comes to the aid of His suffering devotee that is karuna, and if that same devotee is not suffering yet Baba still bestows His blessing that is krpa. So there is a distinct difference between krpa (grace) and karuna (compassion). Finally, there is more to say about this topic of karun’a so kindly consider this an ongoing topic.

The section below demarcated by asterisks is an entirely different topic,
completely unrelated to the above letter. It stands on its own as a point of
interest.

**************************************
For Mothers

“When the foetus in the mother’s womb becomes somewhat developed, its hair starts to grow. The mother may develop nausea. Sometimes she develops a special fascination with certain edibles and inedibles, and some peculiar distastes as well. In ancient Bengal there was a social custom to provide an opportunity to a pregnant woman to eat foods of her choice. This was known as sádhbhakśań.”

“Normally, in the advanced stage of pregnancy, women are not permitted to do physical labour. This is wrong. Women in that condition should be allowed to do a little work. (The same principle applies to pregnant animals.) Otherwise, there remains a risk during labour. Pregnant women and female animals may work half of what they usually do at other times; but under no circumstances should they be allowed to do strenuous work, as it may lead to premature delivery or stillbirth.”

“Foods which are highly acidic, such as acidic citrus fruits, overripe pineapples, overripe jám, cottonseed flour and spicy pickles, should be carefully avoided as they may harm the fetus. Bending over in a stooping posture to lift anything heavy is strictly forbidden for pregnant women. Although there is no objection to carrying loads for those who are accustomed to it, they must not stoop over to lift a heavy load onto their heads. It is better if others will help them to lift it up. In this stage of pregnancy a daily bath is a rule, but one must not bathe after sunset. It is better to lie down on a hard bed.”

“It is desirable that the best room in the house should be used for the confinement. In certain parts of rural Bengal, the worst room or the cowshed is used for confinement out of superstition. This practice is certainly wrong – more than that, it is a crime.”

“There are many people who affect respect, loudly praising women as a race of mothers, but who in practical life suppress them underfoot, sending them into the jaws of premature death by depriving them of happiness and the comforts of life. The conscientious should be vocal against these heinous acts. We must pay due honour to women as mothers and help them to live long lives.”

“The family should see to it that the woman is not forced to walk to the outhouse on foot for at least twenty-four hours after delivery. The delivery room should be fitted with a bathtub and commode. If a girl is born no one in the family is to point an accusing finger, either directly or indirectly, at the mother. It may create undue pressure on her heart. There was one lady of my acquaintance who was unable to bear the humiliation brought down by her family just after the birth of her seventh daughter. She cried out, “Again a daughter, again a daughter, again a daughter!” and immediately expired.”

“A pregnant woman must certainly be provided with nutritious food. No constipation-creating foods should be supplied to her. (This is as applicable to animal mothers as to human mothers.) Sweet-pea leaves, or if not available, then spinach, nat́e shák or gourd leaves should be taken daily in small amounts. Puṋi shák should be strictly avoided.”

“All that I have said in the above is as applicable to pregnant animals as it is to human mothers. In the case of the first delivery one should consult a physician or experienced midwife after one month. If one follows the above instructions, death during delivery will become a rare phenomenon.”

(Ananda Vacanamrtam – 31, Devotees Moving around the Cosmic Nucleus)
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My Own Experience

Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2012 18:33:37 -0000
From: Anandasharan
Subject: My Own Experience
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

== MY OWN EXPERIENCE ==

Namaskar,
I am now above forty five years of age, have cared for three young sisters, have a wife and sister-in-law, and have interacted with so many girls who were my classmates. I know today that gossip across the sexes and too much intermingling, especially between young males and females, always creates a devastating story.

I have personally seen what happens with those who gossip and intermingle too much with the opposite sex. So many boys and girls become emotionally attached which results either in (a) sexual involvement or (b) they face terrible emotional tragedy and heartache.

In both cases, the prana dharma of the individual is disturbed and the situation and atmosphere becomes negative for ideological activity.

In that era of old, Buddhism had the full support of so many strong kings including the great King Ashoka and the Indian populace was also Buddhist. But since there was no separate system for male sadhus and female nuns, a terrible problem of infatuation between sadhus and nuns literally destroyed the prana dharma of Buddhism. That culminated in the end of Buddhism in India.

Since our psychology has been weaved by the LORD Himself, He has clearly given instructions about the separate system for males and females. By that guideline, He is alerting us to the painful downfall that meets those who mix freely with the opposite sex.

If we continue to allow our youths involved in Rawa programmes to go against Baba’s mandate, then there will be a terrible price to pay. At present, under Mrinal Pathak’s direction, there is far too much loose behaviour related with our Rawa programmes – both on the stage and off of it.

We should all let it be known to the organisers that we will not tolerate a repeat performance at this coming DMS.

COMMON AMONGST ALL THE GROUPS

Unfortunately, this type of degrading display in RAWA programmes is common to all the groups. Intermingling among boys and girls in the name of a RAWA programme is not group centric. This is a pan-group activity. I know that in Faridabad Third Front (EC) organised this same kind of programme with the help of B Group.

B group also organises this same kind of programme in Delhi annually. Even from 1991 to 2003, before the time of division into various factions, this same kind of programme was happening in DMS. After 2003 when third front was with Ranchi this same programme was being organised during DMS.

In fact no single group is considering it wrong. In fact, it seems these group leaders are (a) either not aware or (b) do not bother, or (c) do not sense it as problem.

Moreover, it is possible that they are having competition to do more glamorous.

Whatever the reason, this type of degrading display and activity surround RAWA programmes must come to an end. Rational margiis and wts are rallying to bring this to a close. It cannot be tolerated any longer – prakrti will not allow it.

BABA’S GUIDELINES:

MALE – FEMALE RELATIONS

As a reminder, here is what our Sadguru Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji guide us about RAWA and our cultural programmes:

Baba says, “Men and women should not jointly participate in theatrical performances.” (Caryacarya-1)

Baba says, “It should be remembered that a woman’s friend is a woman and a man’s friend is a man. The more distant the relationship between men and women, the greater should be the courtesy maintained in mutual conversation and behaviour between them.” (Caryacarya-1)

According to Baba, our cultural programs must be consistent with Ananda Marga ideals and must be of a requisite standard. Baba Himself has told what constitutes a real RAWA program: That which goads the mind toward a higher ideal. Baba critically warns us not to allow our Rawa programmes to fall prey to debased approaches. Our standard is far above.

Baba says, “If art or literature is created around the base propensities of the human mind, people will naturally gravitate towards it in large numbers, and the creators of such literature will earn a great deal of money from it; indeed, this is the only aim of their artistic creation. Engaged in the quest of evil, obscenity and vulgarity, they also [like the rightists] lose sight of the primary goal of art.” (A Few Problems Solved – 1, The Practice of Art and Literature)

MORE ABOUT TODAY’S RAWA PROGRAMS UNDER MRINAL PATHAK

It has been an ongoing concern that adolescent boys and girls – as well as young unmarried males and females – openly mix and mingle in preparing & performing Rawa programmes at DMS under the direction of Mrinal Pathak.

A more descriptive portrayal of this is appended in note 1, beneath my signature.

I have thought at length about past articles on this matter, and also watched Pathak’s activity along with all his team – boys and girls in DMS. One solution is to have girls play the role of males in girls performances, as needed; and have boys play the role of females in boys performances. That would eliminate the mixing of the sexes amongst our yoga and provide a safer, more stable atmosphere.

As things are happening now, under Mrinal Pathak’s guidance and supervision, there is far too much loose behaviour etc.

I have personally known Mrinal Pathak and his family for the last 25 years. So there is a long history here.

EVERYTHING IS SEPARATE IN ANANDA MARGA

We have to remember that Baba has arranged life in Ananda Marga where we we maintain our sanctity by adhering to certain codes of conduct, not by compromising with our values. In the realm of male-female relations, our proper standard is separation, not free and sensuous mixing of the sexes.

Baba has mandated that everything in Ananda Marga should be separate: For example WWD, our relief activities (AMURTL), reportings, social service projects, LFT trainings, etc. There are all separate along gender lines.

Here is a more complete list for your review:

1. Jagrtis are not shared between males and females for staying over or for office work.
2. Co-education is not practiced with students above 8 or 10 years of age, i.e. or above the age of puberty.
3. During dharmacakra, seminar, and classes, sadhana is done in distinctly different rows.
4. The organisation itself has an entire separate wing for females, WWD or Women’s Welfare Department.
5. Prout, AMURT, VSS etc also have separate sections for males and females.
6. Reporting is done separately.
7. LFT, Tattvika, and Acarya training is separate for males and females.
8. In-Charges are not mixed. Males are in-charges of males and females of females.
Note: Only in Central Office will the head of WWD be controlled by the General Secretary.
9. During DMS, kaoshikii was also performed separately. And still this practice is maintained for DMS.
10. Females do guard duty for females, and males for males; it is not mixed.
11. Akhanda kiirtana is done in a separate manner.
12. Madhur sadhana is done according to gender, not with the opposite sex.
13. In any gathering, females & males do not participate together for games and sports.
14. All public processions are organised keeping males and females separate
15. And there are so many systems in place that ensure strict separation of the sexes.

Thus, when our entire Ananda Marga way of life is separated along gender lines, it is shameful that today we are allowing the free and sensuous mixing of the sexes on the stage during our RAWA cultural programs. This sets a bad example for those young dancers and thrusts them into the world of pseudo-culture. Plus it is degrading for the audience to watch. It is a negative scene from all directions.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Anandasharan

Note 1: WHAT HAPPENED AT THE DANCE PROGRAM

Here it should be understood that Mr Pathak earns his livelihood by directing dance / dramas for the general society. This is how he earns his food; so he is well-accustomed to creating programs that suit the Hollywood taste of the common public. That means he regularly uses 16-21 year-old boys and girls in his programs. And he encourages them to dance and sing together. Mr. Pathak’s shows are designed in the ways of Bollywood and Hollywood. There is an open degree of sensuality in his performances.

For example, at his recently displayed performances at Ananda Nagar in May 2012:

(a) All females aged 16-21 danced with their mid-section uncovered. That means the entire region from just above their waist to just below their chest was completely bare.

(b) All males aged 16-21 danced with their entire top exposed, from the waist up. Males were only wearing a dhoti; their upper body was fully naked.

(c) These males and females – or young men and women – were dancing on the stage together, holding and touching one another, according to the role of their characters. In that way they were in each other’s grasp.

Everyone is aware that per the Ananda Marga system, adult males and females should not dance together on the stage; indeed, no females should dance in front of a male audience. That is just one unfortunate scene. And our RAWA stage is not a night-club, where all kinds of sensual acts are put on display

(d) The males also had shaved all the hair from their underarm; it was visible to all. This contravenes Baba’s guidelines of 16 points, i.e. “Do not cut the hair of the joints of the body.” This gives the wrong message to the audience.

(e) Amazingly, the theme of the show was how youths prepare their mind to become avadhutas and avadhutikas. Yet, in reality, the entire program only served to goad people’s minds toward sensuality – not towards divinity. Our RAWA programs should goad the mind from muladhara cakra to the sahasara cakra – not sahasrara to muladhara. So see what Mr Pathak’s dance program did – that is the irony. (DMS News: Uncultured Dance in Cultural Program, posted 6/10/12)

Note 2: HUMAN MOVEMENT AND RAWA:

TOWARDS THE SUBTLE SPHERE

Baba says, “Then again, you are not merely an animal: simply eating, drinking and sleeping is not everything for a human. A human has a subtler life, a more charming life, a more fascinating life, so your physical existence moves towards your psychic existence, and this movement is your [quest] for higher life, your [quest] for subtler life, that is, your physico-psychic movement, starting from the physical level and moving towards the psychic level. Your physico-psychic activities are architecture, literature, dance, music – they are all your physico-psychic movement. And this movement is from crude to subtle, starting from the cruder arena and moving towards the subtler arena. That’s why in Ananda Marga I encourage this physico-psychic movement: because it will help you in moving towards the subtler world, in moving towards the supreme spiritual goal.”

“Then the third human [movement] is on the pure psychic level. Your thought-waves, your subtler thoughts, your aesthetic tastes, they are all your psychic movement. For physico-psychic movement, I encourage boys and girls to start work in the RAWA [Renaissance Artists’ and Writers’ Association] movement. You know, to work in RAWA, high-grade intellect is not necessary. But for pure psychic movement, pure psychic development, higher intellect is necessary. And in that realm also humans are to be encouraged, because it is even subtler than physico-psychic movement – it is pure psychic movement. And for that I encourage the intellectuals of Ananda Marga to form RU [Renaissance Universal] Clubs. Let there be psychic development, let there be clashes and cohesions in the realm of intellect. This will help a person to move from crude to subtle. This is the third expression of the human actional faculty.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 30, Human Expressions and Human Movements)

Note 3: LINK TO PRIOR LETTER

(Note: The above email is in follow up to the thread titled, “DMS News: Uncultured Dance in Cultural Program.” Below is a link to the most recent letter of that thread. – Eds)

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2012/07/re-dms-news-12-uncultured-dance-in.html

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Tamasa’y dha’ka’ gharete ghumiye chilum nibhrte…” (PS 3930)

Purport:

Baba, that night I was sleeping deeply in one solitary corner of my house, which was submerged in the cimmerian darkness. And that very night
the front door of my house was bolted shut. No one knocked to come inside.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, one divine Entity graciously took advent in my room. With a sonorous and beautiful voice He sweetly told me, ‘Awake, arise, how long will you sleep. Since ages you have been in slumber. Now take a look around – look towards Me’.

Baba, I did not unbolt nor open the door, even then You are here next to me in my room. O’ my most adorable One, my mind fails to conceive how
charming and beautiful You are. Baba, I feel in my heart that Your divine splendor and glory cannot be expressed in words. You are beyond all logic
and reasoning. Baba, my mind fails to comprehend the greatness of Your grandeur. I do pranam to You an infinite number of times.

Baba, with Your boundless love You have come to me and showered Your grace…

END NOTE FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3930:

In the above scene, the sadhaka was in a drowsy state of mind; he was not even aware about his own condition. His mind was not working in a pointed way. In such a circumstance, there was an urgent need to get some guidance from the Guru. Usually we see that people do not readily realise the advent of Parama Purusa in their practical life. Only when Guru reveals His identity to such people and invites their attention by internally pulling their heart, then to some degree they are able to recognise Him. In response, they take initiation and try to lead a dharmic life.
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Loneliness & Monotony Were the Cause
Date: 21 Nov 2012 19:21:04 -0000
From: “Karunanidhi”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Loneliness & Monotony Were the Cause

Baba

== LONELINESS & MONOTONY WERE THE CAUSE ==

Namaskar,
On and off again, the topic has come to the fore about how to teach our margii children and other young ones about our Ananda Marga theory of creation – i.e. how this grand universe has come into existence.

Because at some point, invariably questions arise in the minds of our youths – in the minds of our children: They wonder, ‘who am I’, ‘where have I come from’, ‘what is this universe’ etc. And our Ananda Marga creation theory answers all these doubts and queries in a very comprehensive and fulfilling way.

WHY & HOW WE SHOULD RAISE THIS TOPIC

Next we must consider: When and how should we guide our children about our Ananda Marga creation theory.

Should we wait until our children reach a certain age when they can understand philosophy, grasp abstruse concepts of “Idea & Ideology”, and comprehend challenging topics like jadasphota, shambhuliunga, sadrsha parin’a’ma etc?

Otherwise, when and how should we approach this topic with our kids.

After all, this is an everyday reality for most of us: What is the best way to guide our children. Because inevitably, either on the home-front, in school, or on the internet, this important topic of creation will be raised. And if we do not give a reply – or if our reply is not satisfactory to their ears – then our children will get the ‘lesson’ elsewhere.

If don’t teach our children from where they have come, then they are bound to learn from the general society that human beings are just bones, flesh, and blood – nothing more.

That is why many margii parents, acaryas, neo-humanistic teachers, and sadhakas have concluded that, ‘Yes, we should teach Ananda Marga creation theory to our children’; and, one of the best ways is to emulate the exact manner in which Baba Himself has explained it to His simple devotees.

The content of this letter is based on Baba’s original Hindi discourse delivered in one general darshan in Patna (1965) where He explained Ananda Marga creation theory in very easy-to-understand language.

Here then is some of the groundwork that can be used to help formulate our primary school curriculum regarding the topic: ‘How did this universe come into existence?’.

Once again, the whole import of this discussion is ‘why’ & ‘how’ Parama Purusa created this vast cosmological order.

PARAMA PURUSA WAS ALL ALONE

In the very beginning, Parama Purusa was all alone. There was no one with whom He could play. He was not surrounded by anything or anyone. There was darkness all around – indeed in the absence of anything there was just a vast dark void emanating in all directions. There was absolutely nothing at all, anywhere.

Certainly we all know that when we are completely isolated and have no company, no playmates, and no one to talk to, and are all alone in the house, then we will become very, very lonely. Such was the condition of Parama Purusa. To remove that loneliness, He decided to create something – someone – with whom He could love play.

It is just like if there are children in the house, then the family life in that household becomes colourful & vibrant. Because those children will laugh and they will cry; they will sing and they will dance. And sometimes a child also comes with a problem or needing help in some way; and on other occasions a young one cries out loudly and says, ‘Dad, I want this, or Mom
I need that’.

Having children brings warmth, joy, and, most importantly, transforms life itself into an intimate family experience where there is lots of sharing, caring, & companionship. In which case one will no longer be alone or feel lonely.

WHAT WILL BE THE INGREDIENTS FOR MAKING ONE UNIVERSE

To break the monotony, Parama Purusa had to create something – someone with whom to play. But to create anything, materials are needed.

It is just like if anyone wants to make some toys, then some material is needed such as clay, plastic, rubber, wood – something is needed from which to make those toys.

Similarly, Parama Purusa needed something with which to make His creation; some ingredients were needed to make something – to make one universe. Yet there was nothing around – only there was Parama Purusa and nothing else. Besides Him, there was no one; He was all alone. Then how could He create anything? Because, besides Him, there was nothing. In that case, He had to use part of His own mind.

Thus to create something, Parama Purusa kept away some portion of His own mind: He put that portion of His mind away at a distance. Because without putting away part of His mind, material could not be created.

For that reason, step by step, Parama Purusa began putting away part of His mind.

THE PROCESS OF SAINCARA: PUTTING HIS MIND AWAY

One might then ask, ‘Why did He have to put part of His mind away’ – ‘Why did He have to set it aside’. ‘What was the need to do that?’

The answer is that if He did not put some portion of His mind away, then it could not become made into material – it would just remain unexpressed as pure consciousness. Yet some type of material was needed in order to create something tangible with which He could play.

For this reason Parama Purusa had to set aside some part of His mind. Otherwise it would be impossible to make any toys – jiivas and inanimate objects etc – i.e. any of the creation.

So He put aside part of His mind and it was transformed into material: The specialty of this process is that the further away Parama Purusa put away His mind, the more dense it became.

Accordingly, that portion of His mind that was placed just a short distance away from Him was comparatively less dense, and it became the ethereal factor. And that part of His mind that was put a little further away was more dense so it became the aerial factor. And that portion of His mind that was even further away became the luminous quality – because it was more dense. And when He put His mind still further away it became more dense and was the liquid factor. Until finally He pushed some portion of His mind very far away and that became the solid factor. And this is the most dense factor – reason being that it is furthest away from Parama Purusa. And this entire process of making material is known as: saincara.

So His process of saincara is the process of making the material – toys and beings – with which to play. And in this process of saincara, He creates the painca bhutas, or 5 fundamental factors: ethereal, aerial, luminous, liquid, and solid.

And why does He do this? Why did He embark on this process of saincara? To prepare material to create His toys, i.e. living and non-living beings.

THE PROCESS OF PRATISAINCARA: BRINGING IT ALL BACK HOME

After so many inanimate objects were created by placing some part of His mind away from Him via the process of saincara, then came the task of bringing those things back close to Him. For that to occur, unit mind was created.

This is the transition point – the turning point. Because the process of going away from Parama Purusa is known as saincara. And when things are at the farthest point away from Him then they are in a solid, inanimate state.

This then is the juncture point, whereby finally the unit mind is created and the cycle of creation switches its direction back towards Him.

Here, in this reversal, the formula is that the closer Parama Purusa brought things back towards Him the more developed those beings became. So in this sequence, He brought some creatures just a little bit closer and these slightly developed living beings were in the form plants and insects etc – i.e. creatures that have a very basic mind. And then those beings which He pulled closer to Him were a little more developed such as various animals like goats and sheep – and then those animals which were brought even closer to Him were still more developed such as dogs and monkeys etc.

Until He finally brought some entities very close to Him and those are known as human beings. And the human mind is more developed and more refined since humans are very close to Parama Purusa – until one day, He sweetly draws those sadhakas so close that they actually become one with Him. And, this entire process of returning back to Him is known as pratisaincara.

THE CREATED UNIVERSE

In this manner, by this dual approach of saincara and pratisaincara, Parama Purusa formed an entire universe and He began to slowly fill that universe with innumerable things: forests, rivers, mountain, planets, stars, plants, animals, human beings – so many things & so many beings. And gradually, by His grace, all those things return unto Him.

WE ARE ALL PART OF HIM & LONG FOR HIM

So by this whole picture, by this whole scene of saincara and pratisaincara, it is easily understood that all are part and parcel of Him. Everything and everyone – inanimate objects, flora, fauna, developed creatures, and human beings – is the expression of Parama Purusa. We are all part of that same universal cosmic family. All have been created by Him. He loves all; He is everyone’s Creator; He is the Divine Father. All have come from Him.

Hence, knowingly or unknowingly, all love Parama Purusa as He is the source and all desire to return back to Him – all want to reach Him, just like a small infant has a deep desire to cling tightly to its mother. Similarly all humans love Parama Purusa and desire to be with Him, since He is the Divine Father and all are part of His mind – all are His children.

And this love which humans have for Him is not unilateral. As much as you love Him and long to be with Him, in an even deeper & greater way He loves you and longs to be close to you. Thousands and millions of times more, Parama Purusa loves you. Because after all you are part of His mind. That is why He is called your greater ‘I’ – and this greater ‘I” is one for everybody.

So the whole scene is quite an intimate affair. We are all part of Him and long for Him and Parama Purusa feels us to be His very own and constantly showers His infinite love on us.

at His feet,
Karunanidhi

Note 1: THE IMPORTANCE OF STORY

Before they reach puberty, kids do not like logic and reasoning; they enjoy grand stories and imaginative tales. Every parent and educator must keep this in mind when sharing the theory of creation with young kids.

Note 2: ABOUT PARAMA PURUSA BEING ALL ALONE

“My Parama Purusa was all alone. How painful it must have been to remain in this terrible loneliness. It was no joke for Him to suffer horrible loneliness. When left alone in an empty house anyone would become extremely restless for company. My Parama Puruśa was in such a condition. He had the capacity to see and hear everything, to administer over all, to play with all, to love and scold all, but since there was no other entity, He was deprived of this happiness. Just to rid Himself of this oppressive loneliness He thought to Himself, “I will become many.” And He became many, for He has one rare occult power: prakámya. That is, everything takes shape as per His desire. He wanted to become many and He became many. In this way His divine sport has been going on eternally. Thus it has been said, Ánandáddhyeva khalvimáni bhútáni jáyante [“Out of bliss all beings were born”]. He has created jiivas, created this universe, for the sake of joy alone. Ánandena játáni jiivanti – “these living beings also want to live for ánandam alone.” ” (Namami Krsnasundaram, Disc: 25)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Toma’y ceye toma’y bheve din ye cale ja’y a’ma’r…” PS 2107

Purport:

Baba, O’ my dearmost, my days are passing just thinking about You and looking towards You; in this way my life is passing me by, under Your divine shelter. Baba it is so painful that You do not look towards me – nor do You listen to the feeling of my heart. Baba, in this terrible situation please tell me what can I do to get You. Please grace me.

Baba, by Your grace, at any cost I will surely get You. Baba, You are my polestar. Since the beginning – since the origin – of my life I have been Yours; and up to eternity I will be Yours. Baba, by Your grace, I will surely get You. Even when I was sunk in cimmerian darkness my heart was filled with Your love. During that hopeless period, by Your grace I was also thinking at I am Yours.

Baba, although the lotus is a just little flower, even then it loves the vast sun. In spite of its meagre-self, the little lotus loves that big entity, the sun. In the same way, I love You with my full heart. And now my heart is burning with the fire of longing for You. Indeed, remaining away from You is unbearable for me. Baba, please grace me and come close…

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Be Careful Who You Follow

Date: Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:11:04 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Mandal.Virendra@bharata.net…
Subject: Be Careful Who You Follow

Baba

== BE CAREFUL WHO YOU FOLLOW ==

Namaskar,
When a human being sees someone greater than themselves, then they admire that person, offer respect, and desire to become like that.

Thieves revere great criminals, players honor top athletes, students respect learned classmates, businessmen admire innovative entrepreneurs, and general aspirants respect highly devotional sadhakas.

This equation works in both directions – positive and negative.

The main point is that offering respect comes readily to all. People are eager to follow and emulate those whom they regard. There is a long history behind this as it is related with our fundamental human psychology.

Indeed no one can say that they are not involved in hero worship, in one form or another. Everyone is involved – and therein lies one’s failure or success. It is that critical a component towards a person’s development. Who you follow in life is everything.

Even then some may proudly declare that they do not adhere to any type of hero worship. So we should examine this issue at a deeper level.

Let’s see how hero worship began, how it changed through the ages, as well as what it means today – both for sadhakas and non-sadhakas.

THE EARLY HISTORY

Just as certain developed animals – like cows, horses, elephants, and birds – are gregarious in nature and live collectively in order to care for and protect themselves from predators, since the earliest times human beings have done the same.

When living in the wild, humans would group together in order to face their enemies. Following a particular leader was absolutely vital for survival: Food, safety, protection, shelter etc. People had to pay heed to the call of their chosen leader in order to carry on. Failing that, one was certain to face an early demise.

Thus the trait to follow someone became a basic component of human life. Over the centuries the style of leadership may have gone through changes, but all along people have always been quick to follow a respected person and emulate their characteristics.

This is a built-in human behavior and has a huge effect on one’s growth and development.

THE SPECIFICS OF EACH AGE

During the ksatriyan era, courage, valour and bravery were heralded as the top qualities and people naturally gravitated towards those who most personified such characteristics. In turn, those at the helm gained greater power and exploited others with their might.

When the era changed, then people valued something else.

With the rise of the vipran era, intellect and wisdom were seen as the greatest attributes and those at the helm were embodiments of those qualities. People naturally rallied around them and embraced that status in order to gain respect and be like their leader. To maintain their power, the leading vipras created all kinds of doctrines to keep themselves on top.

Over time, money became king and those at the helm were vaeshyas, i.e. capitalists. In this age people revered those with massive wealth, and overlooked all other qualities. Yet those ruling capitalists gobbled up all the land and material wealth to keep on top.

Now such vaeshyas are in power in most places. But anyone can identify the reigning era of a particular land or country by analysing who gets the most respect. Furthermore, one can assess the quality of the people by seeing who their leaders are. Crude heroes end up leading their followers into hell.

So be careful who you follow as it has a huge effect on the direction of your life.

WHO ONE SELECTS IS IMPORTANT

Who one selects to follow in life is critically important. For instance, if you follow a blind man and he falls into a well, then you too will fall into that same well. Likewise if you follow a dharmika who is moving towards Parama Purusa, then you too will come closer to the Supreme Entity. This is the way it works. Just see.

WHAT IS HAPPENING NOWADAYS

Nowadays in the capitalist era, where material gain and sex is everything and pseudo-culture is rampant, those with the most respect and glamour have huge money.

Pop stars like the late Michael Jackson, athletes like Michael Jordan, movie stars like Angelina Jolie, performers like Madonna, and certain politicians and vaeshyas have scooped up the imagination, hearts and minds of the the people. People run like mad after such stars.

If a pop star gets a certain type of haircut or tattoo, or if a movie icon wears a certain style of dress, then naturally people go chasing in that direction. That is why the big corporations recruit and pay huge money to pseudo-culture stars and icons to model their wares and products as it will boost sales into the millions and billions. In that way they lure and cheat the common people into buying their products. Because the public will do anything and everything to follow their
revered one.

People even become get emotionally attached with certain products and brands like Apple computers. Even intellectual get befooled and misguided thinking that everything that Apple does is great. Many companies have this kind of aura: Google, Nike etc. They have cultish followings.

Plus in this superficial era, even fake yoga stars in the west are gaining clout in the form of sponsorships and hero-worship etc.

According to our human psychology, people like to follow others but due to poor examples they get goaded in the wrong direction – they get herded like sheep.

By this way the general public gets drawn into all kinds of degrading activity. To get wealth, even good people will cheat and steal; to get beauty people resort to plastic surgery and skimpy clothing; to attract the opposite sex, people have literally begun to dress like prostitutes.

All because people blindly chase after the leaders of the day. And when the leaders are degenerated, the common populace will be too.

That is why it is so important to carefully choose who you follow in life.

SOME MAY WRONGLY DENY

Hearing all this, some may strongly claim that they are not prone to hero worship. They will proudly state that they follow no one and are independent thinkers. Many sophisticated and liberal people talk like this.

But truth be known, they are pawns of their chosen leader(s), unknowingly. Just walk into their house and it becomes very clear what they are and whom they revere. Everyone is a fan of someone. Everyone bows down to someone to get respect.

A millionaire prostrates himself to the billionaire; a beauty queen surrenders to some Hollywood goddess; a car enthusiast gives himself to those who own a Mercedes. Everyone in this world is fascinated by something or someone. That is the way of the world. None can claim that they are outside of this dynamic.

By this way, a person sinks or swims. Tragically, most sink as they get lulled into the crude operations and economics of the day. That is why it is critically important to carefully choose with whom you place your respect.

According to their chosen hero, common people will change their habits, tastes, likings – indeed their entire modus operendi is affected. Thus it is absolutely critical that people become aware of who they respect. A person must know who their heroes are – otherwise unknowingly they may fall into a black hole. Especially in this present era when people are fans of characterless individuals.

YOUTHS ARE MOST AFFECTED

Unfortunately, up till now, the masses have most often embraced “goats”, i.e. degraded persons, as leaders. This is especially true these days. And the ones who suffer the most are our impressionable youths. They are most prone to be misguided by crude idols. This even leads to their ruination.

As Ananda Margiis we cannot let the situation remain a standstill, where impressionable people get lulled into false hopes and degrading ways. We are to encourage such youths – and the entire society – to give respect to higher ideals like social service etc. Then things will start moving in the right direction.

Let’s then take a look at the workings in AM, that will give us ideas and inspiration for guiding the general society.

WHO SHOULD GET THE MOST RESPECT

Baba has designed Ananda Marga along a totally different concept. In AM, we do not offer our respect based on materials things, status, or other crude manners. In AM, respect is given based on one’s conduct.

Baba says, “Your ideal is represented by your conduct. Your learning, your social or economic status have nothing to do with your ideal.” (A’nanda Va’nii #13)

Baba says, “Aca’ran’a’t pa’t’hayati yah sah a’ca’ryah – One who teaches through one’s conduct is an a’ca’rya.” (AV-23)

And in AM, good conduct means adhering to dharmic principles: Godhood not crudity, selflessness not selfishness, benevolence not malevolence.

To instill this within all in AM, Baba would publicly honor those involved in doing dharmic works. With this type of healthy competition, Baba guided everyone towards righteous works. By this way we all understood that we would earn the respect and regard of others.

For instance Baba would reward the top bhukti with the title, “Jana Seva’ Sealed”. This bhukti that rendered the most social service won this award. And like that there were all kinds of healthy competitions to get our minds goaded in the right direction.

Competitions like: Sixteen Points, kaoshikii, tandava, dharma mitram (most pracar competition), conduct rules and so many other arenas. Prizes were often based on how much you followed bhagavad dharma and helped the downtrodden masses and the neglected peoples.

Baba says, “You are to purify [yourself] with the help of sa’dhana’ and jana seva’. These two factors, sa’dhana’ and jana seva’, will keep the mental mirror in proper condition, in good condition.” (AV-3)

This was all His entirely unique and revolutionary approach. And because we all followed Baba our minds, desires, and actions got goaded in this totally dharmic direction. It is His grace. By this way the whole society grows and there will not be any exploitation from one group to the next.

In the past vipras exploited ksattriyas and now vaeshyas are exploiting everyone. And in our Marga, because some have fallen away from AM ideals, there is group exploitation. Tragically, groupists revere crude power not jiivan dharma. So some are moving in this direction. But this phase will be short-lived.

By once again following His teachings and ways, prama will be restored and honor will be given to those involved in Sixteen Points etc.

Baba’s is the classic example of how by following someone great, i.e. Taraka Brahma, one will advance on the path towards liberation and salvation.

In a nutshell here is how it works in AM: Our Goal is Parama Purusa so if anyone follows those ideals that lead to Parama Purusa then they earn respect of others. Naturally then, all will move in this direction. It is His wish and hence inevitable.

HOW TO KNOW WHO GETS RESPECT

In the general society it is not like that. People are not familiar with dharma or Taraka Brahma so they get hitched up in another direction. To understand how any society is working, find out what the children want to be when they grow up. Then it will be clear who they follow and what they respect.

Tragically, today most follow a crude example. As Ananda Margiis we are to turn this negative into a positive.

When are are aware that people have a natural tendency to adore those they deem as beings great, then why not utilise this in the proper way and bring all onto the path of salvation. Let all be guided towards parama’rtha and not towards bondage or ruination.

By propagating AM ideals people will follow true sadhakas and start moving in this direction.

Everyone should be fully warned that they need to be careful about who they follow. To achieve greatness one should follow a proper sadhaka, or even better yet, follow Ista. To fall into a mud puddle of crudity, then follow any pseudo-culture icon.

That is why everyone should be extremely careful about who they follow.

BABA’S BLESSING

Baba has blessed us with the ability understand that we are infinite and that we have the capacity to become one with Paramatma. But that can only happen if we are critically aware about whom we follow in life.

If society is misguided then even good people will be diverted to do negative things. – what to say what will happen to bad people.

As humans, ours is the journey from darkness to enlightenment. By following the true Ista and His ideals, heaven will come on this earth.

Baba says, “United you will have to remain, this is your duty. So that the people of the world may remain united, it is your duty to bring the mahavishva as soon as possible. There will be peace and happiness in the universe, and, established in one indivisible ideology, humanity will march ahead toward the Supreme Goal. Victory be with you!” (Disc MHB)

Namaskar,
Virendra

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’ma’y keno bha’laba’sile…” (P.S. 2283)

Puport:

Baba, You are so loving and so gracious – why do You love me so much. I do not have any quality, nor do I have any knowledge or learning. What then did You see in me that made You shower Your grace on me. You have saturated my heart with a strong feeling of devotion for You. You have bestowed upon me an intellect to serve the society. Knowing that I am shelterless, You have granted me everything. You have given me all that was needed. It is Your causeless grace. Baba, You brought me on this earth by providing me with a human body. And You filled my mind with devotion. And top of all, You infused a strong longing of paramartha for You. Even then, such is my miserable condition that I always remain forgetful about You and Your grace. Baba, why do You love me so much…

***************************************
Definition of “Real Discipline”

Baba says, “And what is discipline? The Sam’skrta term for ‘discipline’ is ‘anusha’sanam’. And what is anusha’sanam?

Hita’rthe sha’sanam ityarthe anusha’sanam

When the code of discipline is imposed with the spirit of welfare, with the spirit of development, it is called `anusha’sanam’ in Sam’skrta. There is no corresponding English word.” (AV-3 p.30)
***************************************

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Name of Your Baby

Date: Sat, 19 Nov 2011 21:33:47
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: “Pavitra Deva” pwKlauss@springnet…
Subject: Name of Your Baby

Baba

== NAME OF YOUR BABY ==

Namaskar,
When Baba held DMC in our Berlin Sector, then Baba Himself was emphasizing the importance of Sanskrit names. Time and again He beautifully explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions Baba also corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji’s pronunciation of Sanskrit names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.

Surrounding this, one beautiful scene comes to mind.

STORY HOW BABA BLESSES AND CORRECTS HER SANSKRIT NAME

During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests & when Dada Ramanandaji called out the names of those involved then he announced the name of one sister named Ama’vati.

Immediately Baba pointed out that this name meant ‘darkness’ or ‘new moon’. Then and there, in front of one and all, Baba graciously told that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning ‘divine effulgence’. In that special way our sister took on this new name – one with a truly spiritual meaning.

Certainly this was Baba’s blessing upon that sister and the society. The overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of Sanskrit names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.

NAMES ARE NOT JUST WORDS BUT SPIRITUAL REMINDERS

A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one’s daily life experience and reminds us of our Goal.

Thus not any name will do – names should be given based on this spiritual ideal.

Choosing a name based on the sound of the word, or issuing a name that lacks a devotional meaning is not part of our AM system. Yet, on occasion – or even more frequently – this has been known to happen.

When names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we should take the opportunity to carefully review this important topic.

USING SANSKRIT NAMES: 24 / 7

As we all know, Baba has placed tremendous emphasis on the use of Sanskrit names. We are to use them in all circumstances – cent-per-cent of the time.

Baba says, “At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A’carya.” (CC-I, p.6, 1995 Ed.)

Baba says, “The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings.” (CC-I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)

That is why in our Marga, we all receive a Sanskrit name as soon as we enter AM and that name should be used pervasively, in all aspects of our life.

Unfortunately quite commonly, outside of India, many use their Sanskrit name only at the time of dharmacakra or only when talking to margiis etc. In their daily or professional life, or even when communicating with their spouse, they may fail to use their Sanskrit name. This is one point for us all to be careful about.

NOT ALL SANSKRIT NAMES ARE SPIRITUAL

At the same time we must be aware that not every Sanskrit name is appropriate, as depicted in the above story of that DMC.

To ensure proper Sanskrit names are given, Baba has specifically detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list / booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.

Of course, a large majority of the names in Sanskrit are “good” or “acceptable” for use in AM. By “good” or “acceptable”, we mean that that Sanskrit name directly refers refers to Parama Purusa Himself or one of His divine qualities.

Names like Purusottama (Cosmic Nucleus), Liila (His Divine Play), Kpra Devii (Personification of His Divine Grace) and Divyamurti (Embodiment of God) are ideal in that they remind us of the presence of Parama Purusa.

However, there are many Sanskrit names that fail miserably in this regard.

Names like Brinjal (eggplant) as well as other Sanskrit names meaning rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Sankrit names are also used in the general society and, on occasion, sneak into our Marga.

Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life divine. So there is no value – rather it is detrimental – to have a
Sanskrit name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.

Finally, there are some Sanskrit names like Khendi and Puddan, which do not mean something that is not very glorified. And there are so many other examples. Then there is the so-called Sanskrit name, Pheku, meaning garbage, That also is obviously not up to the requisite standard.

In addition, in India, they begun giving Sanskrit names that are actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is Chalati which is a verb meaning “to go”.

People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is the new trend.

Whether one is born inside or outside of India, regardless of our local traditions etc, we should ensure that our Sanskrit names are of proper meaning. If you have any question, consult your local acarya.

NICKNAMES

Another critical facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or close friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally these nickname are given when people are very young, such as when we are 4 or 5 years old, or during student life.

You have all heard them. Names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with our given name or are given for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.

Actually, when I was in India, I was surprised to see how each family member often has a non-spiritual nickname which all the other family members call them. In that way, they pass the bulk of the life being called a name that has virtually no sense and zero spiritual import.

Wherever we live, we should all be wary and conscious of the use of nicknames – they should not replace our given Sanskrit name.

KUMAR AND DEVA

Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva.

At present, many in AM seem to attach Kumar to their name. Names like Devesh Kumar, Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar and the like are quite common.

Yet Kumar (kaoma’ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.

Baba says, “Childhood, or kaoma’ra.” (SS-21)

In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or senseless things are done.

Here my intent is not to criticise children – they have their natural dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that we should not attach that idea or identity with our Sanskrit name by adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our AM system – that is some folk manner from the traditions of old.

If we wish to append any word to our Sanskrit name then that name should be Deva.

Baba says, “Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div” means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”.” (AV-3)

Baba says, “The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is.” (CC-1)

Thus we should link our Sanskrit names with Deva, not Kumar.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace when a proper Sanskrit name is given that that brings all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It reminds us of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us ever-focused on the divine nature of human life.

When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of the above. Then their names will serve them well for their entire life.

Those who are devotees can easily understand these points – others may not.

We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Sanskrit names are used in our units and that we use these Sanskrit names in all circumstances and conditions.

Baba says “If Sam’skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human beings will move closer together.” (PNS-17)

Baba says, “Today not even the Pacific Ocean between Asia and America is difficult to cross. The people of Asia and America are touching each other’s minds and have learned to accept each other sympathetically as their own. Europe, Africa, Australia, Mercury, Jupiter, the stars, the comets, the constellations – none of them is alien to the other, none is distant from another. Gradually everyone has begun to realise the vibration of the One Integral Mind.” (AFPS-1)

Namaskar,
Pavitra Deva

Note: WHY SHYNESS TO USE SANSKRIT NAMES IN THE WEST

Baba tells in SS part III that those not established on the path of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.

Baba says, “Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others.” (SS pt 3, p.86)

Those who lack a deeper sense of deep devotion feel shy to reveal themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like to tell or use their own Sanskrit name – or the Sanskrit names of others.

But this is only because of their weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength. So we should not be affected by this. Rather we should instill within that person the requisite strength, courage, and devotional confidence to move ahead in the right way.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

PS intro: This song is a metaphor. The flower garden and grass lawn represent the life of a struggling devotee. The rains signify the showering of His grace. The darkness represents mental agony and the allotted path refers 16 Points, do’s and don’ts, and conduct rules. This is a mystical song that should not be taken literally or at face-value. Keeping this in mind, please read the following purport.

“A’ma’r bhuvane ka’lo haye a’che, a’lora devata’ a’jao ele na’…” (PS 1232)

Purport:

My world is dark, the Lord of effulgence did not come even today. The flower bud could not blossom, nor could nectar be stored in the flower core.

The rains did not come. Due to lack of water, scorching heat, and fiery winds, the flower garden and the grass lawn could not survive.

My heart is dry. Even my rehearsed song I am unable to sing. I cannot follow the allotted tune; I could not move on the path You provided.

“Without Your grace, nothing can happen”: This essential truth I did not understand.

That is why the showering of Your grace did not happen on me. I was thinking that I can do anything and everything by myself, and solve all the problems alone. My ego became dominant. My heart was dry and life became listless and burdensome. Baba, because of my ego I could not realise Your grace.

O’ Lord of Effulgence, O’ Parama Purusa, please come and make my dark abode filled with effulgence. Baba, please be gracious…

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One Should Always Remember

Baba says, “However little one’s capacity might be, if one constantly remembers that Parama Purus’a is always with him, that they are in the closest contact with Parama Purus’a, they will be able to do everything. They are not as small as they think themselves to be. And as long as they remember this closest association with Him, they can do much more than ordinary human beings. When this idea becomes permanently established in their minds, they become great. This is why no one should be disappointed or depressed in any circumstances; let everyone constantly perform great deeds, remembering that the flow of their capacity is coming from Parama Purus’a, and thus they can do everything.” (AFPS-3, p.62)
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Which One is First

Date: 10 Nov 2012 16:19:37 -0000
From: “Parashram Laghate”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Which One is First

Baba

“Lukiye path cala’ ekii liila’, lokalocane keno na’hi a’so…” (P.S. 3698)

Purport:

Baba, You are Ajana Pathik, You go on and on moving all about but in Your journey You always keep Yourself hidden. You move around secretly. Baba, You do all the things but nobody can see You; You do not like to come within the field of vision.

To whom You love, they want to search You in their mind; they want to hold You in their heart by the process of shravan, manan, niddhidhya’san & dhyana. But You do not care and You do not like to be seen. You go on moving secretly. Why like this. Why is Your style so jagged? You do not like to move around following the straight, clear-cut path whereby everyone can see You. That type of movement You do not like.

The eternal truth of straightforwardness which has been established since ages, even a wee-bit of that You do not follow in Your movement. Rather everything You do in hidden fashion; and that is no good.

It may be also possible that my understanding is not complete so that I do not properly comprehend You. Baba, by the ordinary measuring scale You are immeasurable. If anyone wants to understand You and get You, then You escape and never get held. And remaining distant, You just smile.

Baba, what type of liila is this. You go on doing everything while remaining hidden…

== WHICH ONE IS FIRST ==

Namaskar,
I learned one very good point at a seminar program some time ago in our bhukti. There were some meaningful points that were shared. I benefited greatly from them. You may be aware of these points already, but because it was new for me, I thought I will write them here.

In the asana teaching class, one key point was raised that our dances – tandava and kaoshiki – should be done before starting asanas. That means after doing half-bath and other preparations, first kaoshiki should be done for a sufficient amount of time (a few minutes or until one gets tired), andn then tandava should be done accordingly. Therefter a brief rest should be taken and then asanas should be started.

ABOUT MY OLD STYLE

This was all quite new to me. In the past, I was doing the opposite.

First I was doing my asanas and then after that kaoshiki and then after that, tandava. And finally, massage and shavasana. After waiting minimum of 15-20 minutes, if I was hungry, I used to take food.

I want to make it more clear, what my routine was up till now. Before starting asana, I usually finish sadhana, whatever time I dedicate for that. So first of all sadhana was done, all the lessons. And then my asanas according to the guideline of acaryas. And finallyI would dance kaoshiki and tandava. This was my sequence.

So the new point that i learned at the seminar was that the practice of dances should be done first – kaoshikii then tandava – and then asanas. This should be the cycle.

CURIOUS TO KNOW THAT ANSWER & WHY

I was not practicing in this fashion, so naturally I was curious: What is the reason why tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Then Dadaji replied, by asking one margii to read this following rule of asanas from CC-3, rule #18.

Baba says, “It is not prohibited for the practitioner of asanas to practise free-hand exercise, running or sports, but just after asanas all these are prohibited.” (CC-3, p.26)

This above asana rule from CC III leads in that direction. The spirit of this point is that tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Dada continued, “The definition of asana is “Sthir sukham a’sanam”: That is, ‘The posture by which one gets composure’.

As, Baba says in Caracarya-3, “Asana means ‘a position in which one feels comfortable – ‘Sthirasukhama’sanam.'” (CC-3, p.23)

Describing about asanas Baba says, that if you do some asana, then remaining in that very posture is not difficult – rather it is calming. Such is the nature of our asana practice.

Altogether asanas are a practice when the breathing is normal, not very fast. The limbs are not moving fast. Everything is done in a very calm and quiet way. It is not like running or jumping, or fast exercise. So two divisions are there. One is soft exercise like asana. And one is fast like running and jumping, and many more.

Whatever the glandular effect kaoshiki and tandava has, that is a different issue. But these dances have a different quality than the peace and tranquillity and smoothness of asanas. Because when doing kaoshiki and tandava also, the breathing goes very fast and the body gets tired quickly. Whereas in asana, the practitioner does not get tired. Especially those who practice asanas regularly realize this fact.

CONCLUSION

According to the CC-3 rule #18, kaoshiki and tandava should not be done after asanas. The best is that kaoshiki and tandava, one should practice prior to asanas. Dada concluded like this.

After listening to this in-depth discussion, I was convinced. Since then I am practicing kaoshiki-tandava, and then asanas. This sequence I follow. You may be practicing asanas since 20, 30, or 40 years or more. What is your experience – what have you been doing? Baba’s teaching is timeless. We should read this following one.

Baba says, “Without attaining all-round purification it is impossible for a sadhaka to experience real spiritual ideation. On the path of spirituality, bhava (ideation) is the main factor.” (DT-2, p.51)

Namaskar,
Parashram

Note: DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ASANA AND MUDRA

Dada also explained the difference between asanas and mudras. Asana and mudra are both physical exercises. But if the posture is difficult, then that comes within the category of mudras. For example, udha’yan mudra where you have to constantly pull your naval to the spine inside. It is constant effort. It is not like asana.

Whereas Padmasana (lotus posture) is not a mudra. It is an asana. Those who practice can sit it can sit in that position for a long time. But, mudra is completely different. You have to do constant efforts to remain in mudra that state.

Baba says, “Mudrás are postures which exercise the nerves and muscles…The practitioner of mudrá may or may not enjoy physical comfort and mental composure. During the practice of mudrás one has to continue one’s conscious endeavour to remain in that posture, but in the case of ásanas one need not. ” (YP, Questions and Answers on Meditation)

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Sadhana Tips

Baba says, “While doing spiritual practices (meditation) when the aspirant is required to direct his mind toward Parama Purus’a, then one must not move, or walk, or practice sit-ups, push-ups etc. One’s physical body should be motionless.” (APH-5, p. 345)
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How to Root Out & Save Yourself

Date: Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:31:08 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Mandal.Virendra@bharata.net…
Subject: How to Root Out & Save Yourself

Baba

== HOW TO ROOT OUT THE PROBLEM & SAVE YOURSELF ==

Namaskar,
You are walking down the street and an undesirable thought floods the mind.

Earlier you were surfing the net and a crude image flashed on the screen, and now all of a sudden you are walking down the street and that very image is pouring into your mental plate. You do not want it to happen but it is happening.

In that case what to do? How to root out that negative image and save your mental sanctity.

This can happen to anyone anytime: Undesirable thoughts enter the mind – we do not want those thoughts to be there – but instead of dissipating they are multiplying, disturbing our mental peace and composure.

An old argument with a friend – the chance to tell a lie to save your prestige – the time you got pulled over & hassled by the police – the desire to watch a unsavory movie – the day your spouse divorced you – or whatever.

All these types unwanted thoughts can flash into the mind any second and disturb our mental peace by making us angry, sad, frustrated, aghast, sexually allured, pained, jealous or otherwise. Even if we do not want those thoughts to come, they seem to cloud the mind until we feel there is no recourse we can take.

How to get victory in such a circumstance?

We should know the answer because in one way, shape, or form such incidents occur to most of us on a daily basis.

SADHAKA LIFE

The life of a sadhaka is so dynamic – so many trials, tribulations – and yes – successes, by His grace. In one life, we have to move so far and overcome so many bad habits, maladies, and afflictions.

Indeed part of our growth as sadhakas, is when we acquire the inner feeling or awakening (samvit) that, “I really need to stop this crude habit or negative activity or negative thought.”

This urge or feeling comes in the life of every Ananda Margii.

The key point then is to make that moment of awakening a reality and rid ourselves of that bad habit or undesirable tendency. Then we can really become great in this life, i.e. a medium of AM ideology.

With Baba’s grace and special guidance, we can get success, cent-per-cent of the time.

In His unique discourse, general darshan in Patna (1968), Baba gives us the perfect step-by-step process for ridding ourselves of any bad habit, mental weakness, or unwanted random thoughts.

IT HAPPENS TO EVERYONE

Baba’s divine guidance is for anyone and everyone. Because we all experience events or thoughts that hover in the mind, when we really do not want those ideas to be there.

For instance: That painful memory of when our young child died, the day we got fired from our job, the time we were unfaithful to our spouse or our spouse was unfaithful to us, the moment we saw the boy get hit by the car, etc.

All kinds of unwanted thoughts may flood the mind without any warning.

QUICK REVIEW

Basically whenever there is a good thing that we know we should do but somehow fail to do it, or whenever there is a bad thing that we know we should not do or think but we succumb to it anyway, then this letter will help you overcome that tendency.

After all, everyone of us has tendencies of mind that we need to overcome – that is part of the path of sadhana – and, by His grace, when we acquire the samvit (spiritual awakening) to get rid of those things, then that is a blessing and we need to put that idea into action.

Here is how to do it. This is Baba’s personal instruction from one His general darshan in Patna during the year 1968.

BABA’S DIRECTION ON HOW TO OVERCOME

UNDESIRABLE TENDENCIES OF MIND

Often times we think we are too weak to overcome a particular habit. A habit is an extension of our flow of mind, and that flow happens automatically within. So it is not at all easy to change.

Having the mere knowledge that we should change is not enough to get us over the hump or hurdle. Something more is needed.

By Baba’s grace, in His Patna general darshan (1968), He has given us this very practical step-by-step process.

#1 STRONG DETERMINATION

#1: We have to take the strong determination (vishvas) to overcome that habit.

Baba’s teachings from that day is that we have to cultivate the strong internal desire to not skip asanas, or not see crude pictures on the internet, or not eat on fasting day, or not recall that painful memory. Whatever the tendency is, we need to first take the firm determination to overcome it. That is the first step.

#2 BABA’S PRESENCE

#2: We have to divert the mind towards Parama Purusa. This does two things. It (a) creates psychic pressure, and (b) changes the flow of the mind.

For instance, before 1990, Baba Himself was forcing us to think of Him. If anybody did anything wrong or thought anything bad, then they knew that when going in front of Baba that He would point out their defect. This type of pressure saved people from doing so many misdeeds and engaging in so many crude thoughts. Because who wants to commit a negative act or think of something undesirable when they know Baba is watching.

Today that same pressure is present – only in a different way. If one thinks and feels inside that Baba is always present and watching their every action, then that creates the requisite pressure to not fall prey to negative habits and degrading thoughts. Then one cannot do or think something that they feel is not good. Because who wants to do something undesirable when they feel inside that Baba is watching everything that they are doing and thinking.

Another way that pressure is present is do learn His teachings and feel that “I must not go against AM ideology”. That is also a very good technique for ridding oneself of a bad habit.

The problem only comes when either someone feels that Baba is not watching or they are not adequately aware about His teachings. In that case that aspirant will always fall prey to negative tendencies of mind

Then they have to impose the idea that Baba is watching, even if they think it is an imaginary notion. By this way, by His grace, soon the inner feeling that really He is watching will enter their psychic domain.

When we feel He is watching then that creates the pressure not to do bad things and do good things.

The other aspect that is more important it to goad the mind towards Him and change the flow of mind. So if one is thinking about the day their mother suddenly died or the time their baby girl fell from the table disfigured her face, if that idea is racing in the mind, then the best thing is to think of Baba.

With firm determination one should do japa, see His image, and fix the mind on Him. Then that disturbing, unwanted thought will go away. And it will not come back either. Where as if we allow that thought to sit in the mind it will stay there and return more and more frequently.

A FEW POINTS FOR SUCCESS

So the way to root out negative thoughts and save ourselves from such torment is:
1) Take the firm determination to solve the matter.
2) Create psychic pressure and feel that Baba is watching.
3) Goad the mind unto Him and let the mind feel His sweet grace.

These three things, strong determination, His watchful prescence, and changing the flow of mind will free us from all kinds of negative thoughts, mental tendencies, and bad habits. That is the way to permanently solve the problem.

BABA’S BLESSING

By His grace, we are all divine and living examples of His reflection, but we have dirt attached to us. We must clean the dirt off and that happens if mind is diverted to Parama Purusa. That is the only way for spiritual soldiers to move ahead.

Baba says, “Mind moves on. And the culminating point, the desideratum is the Parama Purus’a – the eternal love, the universal love, personified. Your march, your movement, is towards Him. That is, your mind moves from crude to subtle, from matter to Parama Purus’a, and it is the birthright of everybody to march in this universal march, to move along this path of righteousness. Just show the path to all – just tell them, “Oh human beings, the path is ready for you, just come!” Whoever is endowed with a human mind and a human body is entitled to follow this path, and at the end of the journey one is destined to attain Parama Purus’a one day. When Parama Purus’a, the Cosmic Cognition, is your goal, success is a must. Success is with you.” (‘Existential Flow and Its Culminating Point’)

Namaskar,
Virendra

Note 1: HERE ARE MORE THINGS THIS CAN CURE

Baba’s above teaching will not just protect us from unwanted random thoughts, but it can also help us overcome all kinds of ingrained habits.

So Baba’s above instructions will also save us from these following ailments, addictions, and bad practices.

(a) Sits for sadhana but sometimes does not finish all their lessons;
(b) Overeats at some meals;
(c) Falls prey to lustful thoughts (i.e. opposite sex) on occasion;
(d) Eats rajasik food (tea, coffee, chocolate) when they know they should only eat sentient food;
(e) Listens to pop music or watches pop TV shows or Holly/Bolly-wood movies;
(f) Resorts to lying or excessive exaggeration once in a while;
(g) Skips or shortens their asana practice & dances on some days;
(h) Surfs the internet reading useless articles or seeing degrading pictures;
(i) Wishes to observe ekadashii but then eats or drinks that day;
(j) Gossips uselessly on their cell phone instead of doing kiirtan or sadhana;
(k) Sleeps more than the body needs, i.e. more than 4 or 6 hours;
(l) And so many other things…

By taking strong determination, feeling that Baba is there watching us, and goading the mind unto Him, then all the above tendencies can easily obliterated and we can march ahead in a new way: Adhering to all AM principles, radiating with His love.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’loker jharana’-dha’ra’y sna’n kara’yecho tumi saba’ka’r man…” (PS 611)

Purport:

Baba You have showered Your causeless grace on everyone. With the spring flow of effulgence You have drenched one and all. Everyone is enjoying in the bliss of Your grace and proximity. This whole universe is vibrated in Your vibration. Now the difference between close and far & own and other has been lost. Everyone has become close– intimate. You have wreathed everyone’s life with the bond of love. Irrespective of their qualities everyone is feeling close to one another. By Your grace You have vibrated this universe. Knowingly or unknowingly people are ready to follow Ananda Marga Ideology. Rationality is developing and the general common understanding is getting changed. The darkness of dogma is vanishing away. Baba You are gracious to one and all…

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Behind the Curtain

Baba says, “How one person sings melodious songs, how another dances beautiful rhythmic dances, how another delivers wonderful discourses, etc. But we cannot see the entity who pulls the strings from behind and runs the show. And the funniest thing is this: the speaker, the singer, the dancer thinks that he or she is the agent, the doer, and takes the entire credit for the performance. People do not care to think of the entity that pulls the strings from behind, or if they are even more foolish, they think that others see them alone, not the entity who pulls the strings from behind.”
(NKS, 97 Edn, p.181)
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Lazy Yogis Avoid Padma’sana

From:
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Lazy Yogis Avoid Padma’sana
Date: Wed, 17 Aug 2010 22:46:17

Baba

“Pita’ ma’ta’ bandhu sakha’ a’ndha’re a’lokavarttika’…” (P.S. 218)

Purport:

Baba, You are my most intimate and loving One; by Your grace You are so
close. Baba, You are my father and You are my mother; You are my friend as
well as my eternal companion. Baba, You are my everything– my One and
only. By Your infinite grace You are that divine lamp of effulgence, always
guiding me along the proper path in life. Baba You are everywhere. By Your
grace no one is ever alone or helpless. You are ever-present carefully
watching over everyone. Baba, by Your grace You are always residing in my
heart.
Baba, with Your infinite compassion, no matter how difficult the
circumstances are, You are always present to provide a gentle touch.
Amongst the thorns & tears You are the soothing balm of the lotus flower
which relieves all pains and sorrows; and in scorching heat of the burning
fire You are that refreshing, calm, cool sandalwood. Baba, You are the
ultimate Savior. When one has lost everything then in that bleak hour You
are the only shelter. You are that divine jewel which makes everything else
into a shining jewel as well. By Your touch, unit beings become divine.
That is Your causeless grace. Baba, You are the best of everything. In the
beautiful rose garden where all the flowers are aromatic and fragrant, You
are the most gorgeous– You are the most beautiful. Baba, You are the most
effulgent Entity in this vast universe.
Baba, You are the Cause of everything. You are the Source and You are
the Origin. Baba, because You are, I am. You are the breath of my very
life. Without You my whole existence is meaningless. Baba, You are my
dearmost, You are my everything. You alone are the eternal lamp of my
heart. Baba, please grace me by keeping me in Your divine shelter…

== LAZY YOGIS AVOID PADMA’SANA ==

Namaskar,
Less and less of our workers are sitting in padmasana during sadhana.
Various Dadas have stated this as well as various Didis. And indeed anyone
who is around wt’s can easily understand this fact. They just are not sitting
in full lotus while meditating.

The reasons behind this growing phenomenon is not entirely clear: Some say it
is due to a growing obesity problem within out wholetimer ranks. After all the
fatter one’s legs, the more difficult or impossible it is to sit in full lotus.
Then others have had their own thought about why less sit in padmasana.

Whatever may be, this posture is very key for successful sadhana.

We all know that yoga is the systematic and mystical endeavour to merge the
unit with the cosmic: jiiva into Shiva. And in this journey by His grace
our movement is not haphazard, but rather methodical & precise. One aspect
of yoga which supports this forward movement is the correct use of our yoga
a’sanas– and in particular padma’sana, the lotus pose.

SYSTEMATIC WAY OF DOING

In life, & in the spiritual science of yoga, each and every thing is done
in a systematic way; there is a particular method for every activity and
action.

For example, if one wishes to drink water then lying down in shava’sana is
not the correct approach. Rather one must sit upright in an erect position
as this will aid in the process of digestion and allow one to drink in an
easy fashion.

Likewise if one wishes to sleep then standing up fully and holding one’s
foot to the nose as in granthimukta’sana is not the proper manner. One will
never be able to sleep in that posture. Instead, to fall asleep comfortably
and quickly one should take rest in a sideways lying position– on one’s
left side.

Similarly if one is hungry and wants to eat then one should not try to eat
while doing kaoshikii or tandava. Those dances are not the proper way for
taking food. As we know the correct approach is to sit quietly in
bhojana’sana, i.e. sitting with one’s legs & ankles crossed in a
comfortable manner.

Hence for each and every activity there is a proper posture– a conducive
pose.

That’s why Baba guides us that when doing sadhana, we should sit in a
particular pose: Padma’sana or lotus posture. Because to do meditation a
calm mind is needed and padma’sana helps one to achieve that special state;
it helps one to progress in the psycho-spiritual realm. For this reason
Baba directly states that padma’asana is one of the top poses, or even “the
best” posture for meditation.

OUR FIRST DUTY: WITHDRAW THE MIND

As we all know our AM system of sadhana adheres to the age-old yogic
theorem: As you think so you become. So in order to achieve that high
spiritual state one must focus and goad the mind towards that supreme
cosmic ideal– after withdrawing the mind from the crude worldly
propensities.

Hence our first duty in sadhana is not to allow our mind to run towards the
external world via the indriyas (organs). Because when the 10 indriyas are
sending signals to the brain and the brain engages in processing and
receiving those messages, then one’s mind becomes totally restless, making
sadhana impossible. So our first and foremost duty in meditation is to
withdraw the mind from these external stimuli. That means gain control over
the motor and sensory organs. The one can begin to see within. And for this
process, Baba specifically directs us that padma’sana is the most effective
posture.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PADMA’SANA

Everyone is aware that the lotus (padma) takes root in the mud and grows up
through that murky pond water until it finally blossoms & flowers on the
water’s surface. Thus despite living in dirty surroundings the lotus flower
maintains its pristine purity.

Likewise we human beings live in this crude world where everything is under
the bondage of maya, yet our duty is to keep the mind above this
quinquelemental world– moving on and on towards our spiritual Goal.
For this grand endeavour, padma’sana helps a lot.

Here below Baba directs us how to sit in lotus posture and at the same time
describes the special import of padma’sana.

Baba says, “Padma’sana is the posture of sitting with the right ankle over
the lift thigh and the left ankle over the right thigh, the tongue pushing
the teeth out. In padma’sana alone, the vision can be fixed on trikuti –
the middle point between the eyebrows. Just as the lotus blossoms forth in
water, so also in this posture the mind tends to evolve. That is why this
posture is termed padma’sana (padma – lotus, a’sana – posture). This is the
best a’sana for meditation.” (Tattvika Diipika)

So by sitting in padma’sana the mind naturally gets goaded toward the higher
cakras, thus helping one to succeed in meditation. That is why after seeing
the situation from all directions, Baba outrightly tells us that padma’sana
is the top posture for sadhana.

STRONG COMMITMENT NEEDED

We all know that progressing in sadhana is not easy– it takes a strong
commitment and a determined effort. Our each and every aspect of meditation
should be proper and pointed. So if when doing meditation one just lazily
sits in bhojana’sana (eating posture in cross-legged position) and one’s
sadhana is hazy and loose because the mind is not concentrated, then surely
one is not going to get success.

Because as Baba reminds us that to do anything great, it demands taking a
strong vow and commitment. Only then can one reach the Goal.

For this reason all great yogis take that special effort to sit for
meditation in padmas’ana since it helps the mind rise up above the crude
worldly propensities and enables one to move towards that spiritual stance.
In order to set a proper example for the people Lord Shiva Himself would
always take to this position.

Baba says, “Usually He [Lord Shiva] would sit in a posture called
padma’sana . It is called padma’sana because it is just like a lotus in
full bloom. Just as the roots and stems of the lotus remain under the water
and only the leaves and flowers float above it — and although it is born
in the mud it sustains its love for the stars — in the same way, people
sitting in this lotus posture and remaining in the world, can keep their
minds above their mundane environment. That is why on the path of sa’dhana’
this posture has tremendous importance. Even though He took upon Himself
all the physical and psychic responsibilities of the entire world, Shiva,
when seated in this posture, was just like a lotus in full bloom,
transcending all the impurities and dirt of the mind.” (NSS, Discourse 20)

So in the above quote Baba tells how this was the special posture used by
Lord Shiva and then Baba again explains the special inner significance of
sitting in padmasana and how it relates with the lotus flower.

Overall, for moving along the spiritual path, Baba is emphasizing that
padmasana is highly essential.

It is most unfortunate the such a percentage of ours Wts is avoiding this
practice of sitting in full lotus.

FROM THE VERY BEGINNING IT IS NECESSARY

Here Baba describes how from the very beginning when one takes initiation
in their early childhood they should be taught to sit in padmasana.

Baba says, “When children are five years old and attain some awareness, the
parents, brothers, sisters or any guardian may initiate them in Na’ma
Mantra [the preliminary process of meditation]. They should be taught to
sit in padma’sana [lotus posture], but instead of interlocking the fingers,
they may rest one palm upon the other; and keep the spine erect.” (CC-1,
chapter 2)

WHY CALLED PADMA’SANA

In our AM system, asanas are name for various reasons. For example some
asanas look like a particular thing. For example when one does
bhujaunga’sana, the practitioner looks like a cobra. Hence it is called
bhujaunga’sana or cobra pose.

Likewise when one sits in gomukha’sana, the practitioner looks like or
resembles the head or face of a cow. Thus the name gomukha’sana.

However in padma’sana, the same rule does not apply. When one sits in
padma’sana one does not look like a lotus flower.

Rather there is another process at work. Becaues the special significance
of padma’sana is that one takes on the unique capabilities of the lotus:
Living in a dirty world but keeping a neat and clean existence. Just as the
lotus is not affected by the muddy water the sadhaka sitting in padma’sana
is not affected by the mundane world.

For this reason this physical posture is called padma’sana. Because one
takes on the qualities of a lotus flower.

HOW TO HELP NEW SADHAKAS LEARN PADMASANA

Initially, sitting in padma’sana is not easy for new people. So we should
carefully guide them step by step how to sit in this posture.

But for wts, this should not be much of a problem as over the course of
time they would certainly get habituated – if they practiced.

That means if any Dada and Didi has not sat in padmasana for a few weeks,
months, or even years, then they will feel extremely stiff and uncomfortable
when they try to ge back into the pose. So we should be patience with them
as well – yet also set the expectation that the large majority of our
workers should be easily able to get into full lotus. .

Firstly people new to meditation should get accustomed to sitting on the
bare floor, if it is their general habit to always sit in chairs. Just
sitting on the floor helps prepare them for various yogic asanas.

And then little by little– over the course of days, weeks, and months,
they should try to bring the ankles closer together until after a while
they can bring one of their their ankles onto the opposite thigh. But again
this should not all be done in one sitting.

Rather new persons should try in rounds or one day after another. And in
between they can massage the knee and then again practice. And little by
little, without putting too much stress on the knees, by trying again and
again over the course time they will gain the requisite flexibility to sit
in padma’sana. And by this way the mind becomes better suited for meditation.

When our wt’s go through this same period of struggle, then we should be
equally supportive.

Here Baba tells us more about how to sit in the full lotus posture.

Baba says, “Padma’sana (lotus posture): Place the right foot on the left
thigh and the left foot on the right thigh. Clench the jaws and press the
tongue against the roof of the mouth. You can maintain this posture as long
as you like.” (CC-3)

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with all the requisite tools to achieve
complete spiritual salvation.

Baba says, “Dhya’na yoga which elevates human beings through constant
self-analysis, obliterates the very existence of the non-spiritual, and
expedites one’s elevation into the supreme spiritual stance.” (MVNS, p.92-3)

Namaskar,
Ramlal

NOTE 1: HOW ASANAS ARE NAMED

Here in special fashion in His chapter, ‘Questions and Answers on
Meditation’ in His Yoga Psychology Book, Baba outlines in Q & A #6 how
asanas are named:

“Question: How do we name a’sanas?”

“Answer: We name a’sanas as follows:”

“(1) Some a’sanas are similar to animal movements so they are named
after those animals; for example, matsyamudra’ [fish posture], garud’a’sana
[bird posture], etc.”

“(2) Some a’sanas have the characteristics of animal structures, so they
are also named after those animals; for example, ku’rmaka’sana [tortoise
posture], etc.”

“(3) Some a’sanas are named by the qualities of the a’sana; for example,
sarva’unga’sana [shoulder stand; literally “all-limbs posture”]. The entire
body is benefited by this a’sana.” (YP, ‘Questions & Answers…’, #6)

By His above explanation we can easily understand that padma’sana is named
as such not because the posture looks like a lotus flower but rather
because sitting in that position enables the human mind to emulate the
pristine purity of the lotus by rising above all crude propensities and
reaching one’s spiritual Goal, Baba.

NOTE 2: PADMA’SANA IS DHYA’NA’SANA

Baba says, “Dhya’na’sanas are practised primarily for concentration of mind
and meditation. Dhya’na’sanas include padma’sana [lotus posture].” (YP,
Question #7)

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Re: Not Commonly Known Dangers of Sports

Date: Sat, 28 May 2011 13:32:32 -0400

To: am-global@earthlink.net

From: Dharmendra Deva

Subject: Re: Not Commonly Known Dangers of Sports

 

Baba

 

 

== RE: NOT COMMONLY KNOWN DANGERS OF SPORTS ==

 

Namaskar,

Yes, I have also seen how dangerous competitive sports can be; I know of many who have suffered life-long injuries. There are so many tragedies in today’s sports industry. So I appreciate the initial message of this email thread. (See link appended below)

 

Also I would like to add points for others to consider, as well as reflect on Baba’s way of including fitness into our AM way of life.

 

 

PHYSICAL FITNESS IS KEY

 

As we all know, physical exercise is a necessary component for leading a healthy life. Then one can utilise their body and mind to serve Parama Purusa and His creation.

 

Accordingly, Baba has designated asanas, kaoshikii and tandava as the main practices for exercising the physical body. In various discourses, Baba has clearly stated that the asanas and dances prescribed in Ananda Marga exercise the glands thereby keeping both body and mind full of vital energy and positive spirit.

 

 

IMPORTANCE OF DAILY WALK

 

Plus, as we all know, Baba advocates taking a brisk walk everyday.

 

Baba says, “Walk in the fresh air…If the body does not work up a sufficient sweat, then you should know that you have not taken the air properly.” (Yogic Treatments, Appendix E)

 

 

SPORTS AND GAMES ALSO ENCOURAGED

 

In addition, games and sports are also encouraged in Ananda Marga.

 

Baba says, “They will be able to devote ample time to such activities as sports, literary pursuits and spiritual practices.” (Problems of the Day, pt #9)

 

By His above teaching it is clear and very evident that Baba places great value on sports. And the way Baba values sports is radically different from the way sports is valued in the present era.

 

Baba places value on maximum participation in games and sports so that all may get the benefit. In contrast, the commercialization of sports is based on highlighting elite athletes who play the game while the rest of the society watches. Baba does not approve of this later method.

 

During general darshan and DMC, Baba would select and allow all kinds of people to do tandava and kaoshikii. He would not select only the same people again and again. It is not that only the best dancers would be put on display. Baba wants that everyone should participate in their personal daily routine; and during general darshan and DMC, Baba would welcome anyone’s participation. In fact He would rotate new people into the cycle. Because Baba’s clear directive is that kaoshikii and tandava are for all – not just for the elite few. His aim is to encourage all the participate.

 

In contrast, to participate in sports in today’s competitive society, such as for a school team – let alone semi-pro or even pro sports – one must train day-long to be good enough to play. In that way, only a small percentage compete in sports while most of the so-called modern world has turned into a society of spectators or “couch potatoes”. They become awed watching highly-trained athletes compete and they think their job is to sit, watch, and spend lots of money on tickets and memorabilia. In that way the theme and essence of sports becomes lost. Sports has become an industry or capitalist venture.

 

Whereas Baba distinctly advises that sports and games are for cent-per-cent participation by all. Plus Baba wants that we practice asanas, mudras, and bandhas. In individual live everyone must do these regularly, i.e. twice daily.

 

At the same time, on the collective level, Baba does appreciate healthy competition with respect to sports and games. That is why there are kaoshikii and tandava competitions where Baba would even distribute prizes at DMC. Plus at SSAC camps, games and sports were organized in the form of tournaments and competitions.

 

Yet all along, the main message Baba has given is that everyone should exercise and keep their physical body in good condition while still striving for psychic and psycho-spiritual development.

 

Baba says, “Be physically fit, mentally developed and spiritually elevated.” (Prout Nutshell, part 21, Nuclear Revolution)

 

So Baba’s message is that everyone should exercise regularly and keep their physical body healthy and disease-free. Games and sports are for all – not just elite athletes as has happened with the commercialization of sports in this capitalist era.

 

 

THE INTANGIBLES OF SPORTS

 

One other clear-cut benefit of sports is what is often termed as the “intangibles”, i.e. the non-physical benefits of sports. These qualities include teamwork, leadership, spiritedness, perseverance, friendship, and so much more. These qualities are not found in the rule book nor can they be tangibly measured, but these also stand as an important aspect and indeed benefit of sports. Any coach, manager or announcer will tell you that.

 

And for this reason also Baba fully encourages everyone – especially youths – to participate in both individual and team sports and games.

 

 

MAIN PROBLEM WITH SPORTS TODAY

 

As neatly detailed in the initial letter on this topic, the tragedy is that in today’s overly-competitive, commercial market, sports has become an avenue primarily for the elite where so many are fallen, injured and killed. Training is intense and big corporate sponsorships are more concerned with profit than with the health and well-being of the athletes. Unfortunately, this defective mentality has even invaded our high school level sports. So in today’s environment, sports has often become a hazard. Yet, this is not what is usually reported in the newspapers and on-line; rather all the headlines glorify the top stars and overlook all those who suffered injury, illness, disability and even death.

 

 

BABA’S BLESSING

 

By Baba’s grace He has prescribed the perfect system for living a healthy, balanced life. Baba guides us that our human personality is three fold: Physical, psychic, and spiritual. We must not neglect any sphere; we must not neglect physical exercise. If we follow Baba’s system and do asanas, kaoshikii and tandava, and keep attuned to His other guidelines like walking etc, then we will best be able to serve Him and propagate AM ideals. Then our bodies will not become crippled and incapacitated at an early or even late age.

 

Baba says, “…In order to march ahead on the road of human welfare, we will have to strengthen ourselves in all the arena of life. The complete seeds of welfare in all the spheres – physical, mental, moral, social and spiritual – are embedded in the sixteen points. Hence be firm on the sixteen points.” (Ananda Vanii #45)

 

Namaskar,

Dharmendra

 

 

Note: ORIGINAL LETTER ON THIS TOPIC

 

Here is the original letter on this topic…

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/05/not-commonly-known-dangers-of-sports.html

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Those Moments with Baba

Date: Sun, 15 May 2011 20:52:34 -0000

To: am-global@earthlink.net

From: Jawaharlal

Subject: Those Moments with Baba

Baba

== THOSE MOMENTS WITH BABA ==

Namaskar,

As the Divine Father, Baba has come on this earth to give ultimate salvation

by decreasing the distance between He and His children. He has come to create

an intimate closeness with His devotees and encourage all to come even

closer and still more close.

So despite being the Parama Purusa incarnate and the most Magnanimous One,

Baba would always create a heart-felt link with His devotees which would

automatically melt the gap between His supreme greatness and our ordinary

selves.

And one of the wonderful ways He would accomplish this was by using humour

and tender expressions with His devotees. By making everyone laugh and

smile, then sadhakas would immediately feel more relaxed and closer with

Baba. This was the very sweet and gracious way in which He would

communicate with His bhaktas.

Each and every margii has their own personal experience of closeness with

Him and by that way they could feel His sweet touch; and, those who could

not get this feeling could not remain. So every margii has their own

experience and realisation.

Following then is but one of the many highly memorable occasions when Baba

would make us all smile and laugh and thereby bring us closer to Him.

Despite our faults and despite our limitations, through His immense warmth

and love, and yes, by making us laugh, we would feel that whatever we may

be in this world, certainly we are His and He is mine. That was one of the

very special ways in which Baba would make us all feel close.

Here then is one of the scenes which I recall and others should also share

their memories also.

BABA’S ARRIVAL INTO THE PANDAL

At one particular DMC that I attended, the huge crowd of margiis and

workers were anxiously awaiting Baba’s divine arrival. The pandal was

completely full and everyone present was involved in singing and dancing

kiirtan. All were in a blissful flow and the devotional feeling was

mounting more and more as they expected Baba to come any moment.

Then suddenly one Dada started shouting and the kiirtan came to a distinct

halt. Then another Dada began raising the slogan, “Parama Pita Baba Ki!”,

and everyone yelled “Jai”. Again and again the slogan was raised: “Parama

Pita Baba Ki– Jai!”

The volume and vibration of the pandal was increasing and everyone knew

that at any moment Baba would be coming. The slogan was raised one more

time and then we could all see Baba entering onto the stage. Cries of

“Baba, Baba” could be heard all around and still the slogan was going on,

“Parama Pita Baba Ki- Jai!!”.

The whole pandal was charged and vibrated by His presence.

As Baba walked slowly across the stage surrounded by His entourage, He

passed His cane to one Dada and majestically sat down on the dais. Quickly

another Dada came forward to remove Baba’s shoes.

As Baba moved onto the center point of the dais, one or two Dadas were

involved in arranging the side pillows of His seat. Then, for a second

time, Baba brought His hands together and gave His blessing across the

entire Pandal.

Everyone was feeling waves of bliss as Baba looked in their direction.

Then one Dada approached Baba with a mala and garlanded Baba and then did

sastaung pranam. Everyone was completely focused on Baba– watching His

every gesture and move.

Baba then began giving some directions to a few Dadas who were by His side

and then they took leave and went from the dais.

Baba then looked out across the sea of margiis and in a smiling manner He

said, “How are you– everything is alright?”.

Then everyone present simultaneously replied, “Yes Baba!”.

Baba looked to be in a very jolly mood and that heightened everyone’s

happiness and joy.

Then in successive order Baba graciously performed blessings for newly

married margiis and then distributed prizes to various workers and margiis.

BABA’S VERY HUMOROUS REVIEW

Immediately thereafter, per the system of DMC, there was a call for

brothers kaoshikii. And Baba smiled and turned slightly towards His left

and looked over in that direction.

One Dada could be heard saying, “Dhin dhin dhin, dhin dhin…” and on that

count the brothers’ kaoshikii dance began.

Of course everyone was trying their best to perform the kaoshikii dance in

a nice way for Baba; and since it was the time of DMC there was a big

crowd. And with full zeal and enthusiasm the kaoshikii dance was done.

According to everyone’s capacity they danced and the whole time Baba was

smiling towards those brothers who were dancing. After a minute or two, the

call came “Halt!”, and all the dancers immediately stopped.

Normally, the sisters would then be signaled to start their kaoshikii. But

on this particular occasion, Baba was smiling and still looking over

towards those brothers who had just completed their dance. So everyone’s

focus was in that direction.

Then in a jolly manner and in a smiling way Baba very reassuringly spoke

the following:

“You know the kaoshikii dance displayed by the boys

was very good–

(Baba was still smiling)

“–with the exception of a few points.”

Then in a charming way Baba said:

“The teamwork was not so good; the angular bending

was not so good; and, there was actually no rhythm.”

Then in a jovial mood, Baba concluded:

“With the exception of these three points, it was very

good.”

Hearing Baba’s sweet and humorous words, we all laughed– everyone

laughed– and this laughter continued for several seconds.

We were all charmed by His sweetness.

And by this way, by Baba’s humorous response, we all felt relaxed and

understood in the depths of our heart that really we are His children and

that regardless of how poor our performance may be, always He loves us and

finds a way to express His appreciation. We all felt very close to Baba.

Those brothers had tried their best in kaoshikii, with whatever capacity

they had; but even then it there was room for improvement. And the way Baba

expressed that was very, very charming– and humorous.

WHAT WE CAN UNDERSTAND FROM THIS

There are a few things we can all understand from this.

1) Baba was giving the encouragement that no one should feel dejected by

their performance and that He recognises the sincerity of their effort and

gives everyone His love and affection.

2) Baba wanted that everyone present– whether they were dancing or not–

should improve the standard of their kaoshikii.

3) If Baba would have just appreciated the performance and not pointed out

the defect in their dance, then no one would have been aware of their

mistake and by that way those dancing and those watching would continue

their poor way of dancing in the future.

4) If Baba had only scolded these new margiis then they might think that

doing kaoshikii was beyond their reach and they also would not feel close

to Him.

5) But by Baba’s special way, He appreciated their effort and guided them

for their improvement.

BABA MAKES THE WHOLE ENVIRONMENT BLISSFUL

Really in that moment everyone felt loved, cared for, and close to Baba.

Such was the effect of His radiant Presence and special words.

Thereafter, the DMC program took its course and the sisters danced

kaoshikii and the brothers tandava and after that Baba announced, “The

subject of today’s discourse…”.

And always we will remember that in spite of how poor the kaoshikii dance

was, Baba found a way to appreciate their effort and everyone laughed and

felt close. So Baba has a unique way of making the entire atmosphere blissful.

SOME MORE REFLECTION

Baba is not only Guru but He is our Father and in His each and every

expression He is very close and sweet. How can we forget those moments.

And to this very day, whenever I close my eyes then I remember that special

time and I feel His close proximity. And that gives me the energy to move

forward.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s sweet grace we will all realise the height of human glory and

live life divine and reach up to Him.

Baba says, “Do not forget your life; do not forget the path; the path is

very noble, very beautiful, and it is for you to know that, it is for you

to realize that, so do it from today. Do not leave it for tomorrow,

tomorrow may not come for you. Who knows? The sun may not rise for you

tomorrow. No one can say who is going to live from today till tomorrow. It

is up to Him to decide. So as long as we are here today, let us try to take

[advantage] of this opportunity and do sa’dhana’ and follow dharma; thereby

you will know Him, [you will complete] the beautiful journey of knowing

Him. So let us know Him today. In this way we will be able to provide paths

for human beings to come. Animals also are marching ahead to know that

Supreme Entity. So it is our duty to make the way, to pave the way, in

order for everyone to come on this path. Realize Him. Realize that Supreme

Being within you. This is your dharma, this is your path; and let this path

be yours, and victory will surely be yours.” (AV-31)

Namaskar,

Jawaharlal

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Ke ghumiye a’che tumi ja’n, d’a’k diye ya’o…” (P.S. 2179)

Purport:

Baba, as the Savior and Controller of the whole universe, You are well

aware about who is sleepy and drowsy, and who has lost the path of divine

effulgence. Baba, You know everything.

Those who have lost the Goal, You always call them and show them the

right path. Those who are crying bitterly after facing their defeat, with

Your divine compassion You graciously show them the proper path for their

forward journey– and help them move ahead. Baba, You are the Sadguru.

Hence those who remain forgetful about You as well as those who are

always calling You with deep adoration full of longing and tears, with both

these two opposite types of people, You shower Your divine grace on all–

without any differentiation.

Baba Your grace is for everyone. But crude people are not realising that

You are gracious on them also. Whereas devotees realise. That is the

difference.

Baba, You grace everyone; Your greatness & glory is beyond explanation…

*****************************************

We Should Take Lesson

Baba says, “If one stays away from objects of attraction, one has no chance

of using them and they may thus gradually lose their attraction; while if

one is near them one may be attracted towards them more.” (AMEP, 98 Edn,

p.126)

Note: Reading negative articles, crude books & literature, filthy

magazines, and watching crude movies invites degeneration.

*****************************************

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Baba’s Flying Messenger

Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:37:23 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Baba’s Flying Messenger
From: RB_DEVA@ecectronic…

Baba

== BABA’S FLYING MESSENGER ==

Namaskar,
As Ananda Margiis, the best memories and most beautiful experiences in
our life revolve around being with Baba– either through our dreams, in
our sadhana, or being in His physical proximity. All these remembrances
bring a wave of sweetness and bliss. And truly we are blessed to have
His personal touch in this life. That is nothing but His divine grace.

One of the greatest things about Baba is that everything He does is
aimed towards bringing us closer to Him. His teachings, His stories, His
affection, His scolding, His directives, and His humour are all done for
one special reason: So that we may be drawn closer to Him and realise
His infinite love.

In that way, everything He does is for our betterment and growth and
this following story leads in this very same direction.

       “A FLYING BUFFALO HAS TOLD ME…”

We have all heard the line, ‘A flying buffalo or camel or lizard or
various other types of animals have come and whispered in my ear’. This
extremely humorous explanation was Baba’s way of telling us that He is
aware about each and every thing and that He is always with us– caring
and watching.

STORY ABOUT KAOSHIKII COMPETITION AT DMC

One time at DMC in April in Daltonganj, all the margiis and acaryas had
assembled and were excitedly waiting for Baba’s divine arrival into the
Pandal. The year was 1984. There was so much anticipation and so much
electricity in the air and our Marga was on the rise. Everyday Baba was
giving new teachings and every week more and more devotees were coming
from around the globe to be with Baba. The days of Emergency were now
long behind us and everything in AM was thriving. New people were
swarming into the Marga.

ALL WAITING FOR HIS ARRIVAL

So in that anxious moment when all were waiting for Baba’s august
presence, the pandal was filled with the devotional chanting of kiirtan.
And after every round as the kiirtan was sung, we are were sure that at
this moment Baba would make His arrival. But alas it was not to be. And
again the devotional longing would mount in kiirtan until the thought of
Him still not coming was unbearable. We were all lost in His thought and
His rhythm.

Then just as it seemed that the kiirtan would go on forever, there was a
massive call from the front of the pandal, ‘Parama Pita Baba Ki!’ and we
all shouted ‘Jai!”.

Still there was no physical sign of Baba’s arrival but we could feel
that any second He would come forth. Then again came the call ‘Parama
Pita Baba Ki’ and in unison everyone responded ‘Jai!’. This went on for
4 or 5 more rounds until the sound reached its peak and every cell of
everyone’s existence was totally focused on His coming.

BABA’S DIVINE ARRIVAL

And in that electrifying moment, Baba emerged from behind the stage and
did His folded hand blessing to all. A wave of bliss spread through the
mass of devotees who had gathered. And in a majestic way Baba walked
across the stage, using His cane in the most regal manner. Cries of,
‘Baba, Baba, Baba’ filled the air. And all the while there were Dadas
surrounding Him watching His each and every step.

When Baba reached the dais and turned to sit down, then immediately PA
Dada came forward and removed Baba’s shoes and helped get Baba
comfortably situated on His seat. Pillows were arranged and everything
was made neat and clean. A glass of water was offered to Baba and He
sipped gently from the glass taking a small amount of water.

Little by little, the sound in the Pandal began to lessen as all eyes
became fixed on Baba. Everyone was watching Him intently to see what
would happen next. Then in a joyful mood, Baba asked, ‘How is everyone?
Have you had enough to eat? Are you alright?’. And everyone responded,
‘Yes Baba’.

BABA’S FLYING MESSENGER & KAOSHIKII COMPETITION

Then came the call for brothers kaoshikii. Still at that time, kaoshikii
was relatively new, and everyone was learning to improve their rhythm
and form. So in that spirit, a kaoshikii competition was to be done in
front of Baba. So many brothers participated and Baba gently nodded
approvingly as they did their dance.

At that time, many of the margii sisters were thinking to themselves
that they would not have to dance kaoshikii today as they were not prepared.

So after the brothers finished their dance, then Baba look around and
everyone was waiting for the inevitable– for Him to request the sisters
to dance kaoshikii. But it did not happen. Baba delayed and the room was
quiet.

And then in the next moment, in Hindi Baba said, ‘A flying camel has
come and told me that the girls do not want to participate in the
kaoshikii competition’.

After saying this, then Baba was smiling and looking all around the
pandal and in response everyone started smiling and laughing.

Seeing this whole scene, then the sisters quickly came forward and said,
‘We want to participate in the kaoshikii competition’.

Then Baba replied, ‘As you like’.

And accordingly those sisters did their competition in kaoshikii and
Baba gave His approval.

BABA’S SPECIAL WAY IS ONE BOON FOR DEVOTEES

So during reporting and dharma samiiksa etc, and in various
circumstances, Baba would tell that, ‘A flying buffalo has told me…’.
This was His charming & sweet way of telling us that He is always with us.
In countless reportings He did like this.

By this expression, we are to understand that we are not alone and that
we cannot do anything in hidden or secret. We should always think that
He is watching. Through this approach, then the sadhaka will become pure
and sanctified as one will not indulge in negative things because they
will think that Baba is always watching.

And certainly, if one cultivates this habit and thinks that Baba is
always watching, then their real spiritual life starts. Furthermore,
when they start thinking in this manner all the 24 hrs, then they are
established in Brahmahood. In that stage they cannot do anything wrong.

Verily this entire process is one practical way of doing second lesson.
This process is also used in dhyana as well. Because a devotee serves
Parama Purusa then they should feel that He is watching.

WATCH OUT FOR AVIDYA MAYA

We know that human life is for sadhana but obstacles invariably come
from avidya maya. One or another trick of maya keeps the sadhaka blinded
and gives them the feeling that materialism is everything. And another
form of avidya maya pulls them away still further by giving them the
false notion that spirituality is meaningless and garbage. Indeed we all
have to be very careful about these two negative forms of avidya maya.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace when a sadhaka moves one step closer to Parama Purusa,
then one feels the presence of vidyamaya and inspiration comes in the
mind that, ‘human life is very short and my goal is Parama Purusa and I
want Him’.

When this feeling comes then the sadhaka rushes headlong to Parama
Purusa and in a very short span reaches Him. Then only does human life
become successful. In this entire approach, Guru’s grace is everything
so we should always beg for His grace. O’ Lord please be gracious.

Baba says, “The greatest human treasure is devotional sentiment,
devotional wonts. This devotional wealth must be preserved; otherwise
humanity will lose its most valuable possession. The people of the
present-day world have made considerable progress, so now they must not
permit this highest human treasure to be destroyed. Whenever we see that
the pressure of external circumstances threatens this life essence, we
should pray to the Supreme: ‘O Lord, please be kind enough to protect
our inner vitality from total destruction. Save us from the agony of
total loss’.” (NH-LOI)

Namaskar,
Rambabu

Note 1:        UNDERSTANDING ABOUT THE FLYING MESSENGER

First and foremost, it is the unquestioned truth that Parama Purusa knows everything.

And sure enough, there was one way for Baba to come forward and say, ‘I
know everything’. But this He did not like to do as it sounds a bit
arrogant in this present era. In the past however, Lord Krsna did
proclaim as such because the society was ready to listen. But in this
present era, Baba chose not to say like this.

Instead, Baba opted for a more indirect approach. So He employed the use
of one ‘messenger’ who would tell Him everything. Sometimes that
messenger was a flying camel, or a flying buffalo, or a flying lizard
etc. There were so many animals who ‘came to Baba as messengers’. This
was Baba’s chosen style.

Yet internally we all know that Baba knows everything and no one really
believes that the messenger– such as a flying camel– is something
real. So this is not something to take literally. It is just Baba’s
sweet way of telling us that He knows everything.

In the past however, people have taken things literally such as when
Veda Vyasa Deo told his stories and in turn the common people built
statues based on those tales. Obviously, this type of misunderstanding
should not occur in this present era. We should clarify the point now
that Baba was just joking and those flying camel messengers were not
real. Otherwise in the future people will take it seriously and make
statues of those flying buffaloes etc. So this dogma should not be
allowed to happen.

And it won’t so long as we all know and propagate that those flying
animals were not real, just it was Baba’s sweet way of telling us that
He knows everything and that always He is watching for our welfare.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Sukhe dukhe a’mi toma’y bha’loba’si, toma’r tare ka’ndi ha’si…”
(P.S. 2679)

Purport:

Baba, in both my pleasure and pain I love You. I cry as well as laugh
for You. My entire existence is revolving around You. You are my
everything. You are the jewel of my heart– the most precious and
attractive thing. In my mental sky You are the only shining Entity, like
the full moon. You are my everything.
Baba, I do not know since which hoary past You came in my life. And
when You made everything effulgent. You created this world and since the
dawn of this creation You are. Since that time the divine effulgence is
still shining as it is–unchanged. It did not become faint. It does not
obey the time factor. It is eternal.
Baba, You are One but You are expressing Yourself in infinite ways.
You are that Singular Entity but also You have created many. This whole
creation is also Your form. So You are always playing Your divine liila
with this world which You have created. This divine liila is a mix of
darkness and effulgence. By this way and with the attraction of Your
love, sometimes You keep me close and sometimes You keep Yourself at a
distance.
Baba I am singing Your name and keeping Your warm feeling in my
heart– all the time, day and night. 24hrs. It is Your grace…

**************************************
Definition of “Real Discipline”

Lord says, “And what is discipline? The Sam’skrta term for `discipline’
is ‘anusha’sanam’. And what is anusha’sanam? `Hita’rthe sha’sanam
ityarthe anusha’sanam.’ When the code of discipline is imposed with the
spirit of welfare, with the spirit of development, it is called
‘anusha’sanam’ in Sam’skrta. There is no corresponding English word.”
(AV-3 p.30)
**************************************

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Exploited Trainees of Varanasi TC (Part 2)

To: AM-GLOBAL

Date: Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:21:36 -0000

From: NJK Majumdar

Subject: Exploited Trainees of Varanasi TC (Part 2)

 

Baba

 

== EXPLOITED TRAINEES OF VARANASI TC ==

 

~ Part 2 ~

 

Namaskar,

This is the second part of our investigative report on the conditions of our trainees at the Varanasi WT training centre.

 

As you may recall the first letter detailed how trainees were given old, dirty clothes to wear and deprived of even the most basic foods. Plus other issues were raised including the very dramatic story of dharma samiiska. A link to the first letter is noted below.

 

Here in this second letter further matters are explored.

 

 

AGE OF IDEALISM

 

We must remember that our trainees are youths – mostly teenagers – and they arrive at our doorstep with tremendous idealism. They want to do something to change the world and serve Baba. They have a mind, a heart and they have feelings. They know a little about Ananda Marga yet have a strong desire to know more. That is why they have come – that is why they have chosen to dedicate their life. They have come in search of living for a high ideal.

 

 

NOT EVEN ALLOWED TO TALK

 

Of course it is our duty to create a Training Centre that nurtures their inherent desire to lead a spiritual life and serve humanity. But our TC is operating in a different manner.

 

At our Varanasi WT Training Centre, our trainees are malnourished. They get 1/2 the calories needed to maintain a healthy human body. They growing bodies and minds are deprived of the food needed to grow. Just they are left to suffer and waste away. Yet, side by side, these same trainees see how the Trainer Dada is eating like a king.

 

By Baba’s grace our trainees have great dedication for our AM ideals and love for Parama Purusa. For this reason they do not run away.

 

Indeed they are cognizant that Baba’s teachings of neo-humanism and Prout hold immense beauty and hope for the society. Our trainees are attracted by the ideals of a single human family. That is why they debate these points among themselves. One trainee was telling that Baba’s teachings are for others, but not for those in AM. Then other trainees retorted that if we ourselves are not practicing these ideals then how can we teach them to others. This type of back and forth discussion is common at TC. When the trainer Dada hears this he feels irritated and does not wish for the trainees to discuss such matters and / or the irregularities at TC.

 

Verily, the Trainer Dada does not like that his trainees should reflect openly on such topics. Many say that the Trainer Dada is himself defensive about the the double standard set between the trainees and himself. So the Trainer Dada does not want them talking about our AM way of life lest they question about all the injustices and inadequacies going on in TC. He wants that they should keep mum on all these topics.

 

For their part, the trainees are not complaining, merely they are immensely interested in and curious about Baba’s divine teachings. But the trainer Dada is not apt to let them grow or discuss in this way.

 

That is why for the last several months, the trainer Dada has imposed a curfew: No talking on any point at all. If any trainee wishes to express any idea then it must be conveyed in writing only. One may not talk on any topic. When taking a collective meal, if a trainee wishes to have some salt on their food then they have to write that down on a piece of paper and hand that to the trainee who is near the salt. That is the extreme imposition going on at TC these days. The trainees are not allowed to talk amongst themselves – period. They must bear their mistreatment in silence.

 

Such harsh rules do not exist in any civilised country or modern society. There is no way to justify the imposed silence order by the trainer Dada at Varanasi TC.

 

Here it should be clarified that the ruthless and repressive policy of TC cannot be classified as maonbrata (vow of silence). We must know that maonbrata is an internal discipline not to talk – it comes from within and is not imposed by others. Plus maonbrata is for limited time – it is not meant as a permanent way of living. Hence what is going on at TC is a complete injustice. It is just the case of a repressive regime wherein the trainees are forced into silence in order to keep their mouths shut about their miserable living conditions.

 

Only in Nazi concentration camps or in Communist work prisons would such harsh rules be imposed. So it is quite ironic that this is happening in our own WT training centre – a place that is supposed to be the embodiment of neo-humanism, yet instead emulates the ways of dark, totalitarian regimes.

 

 

WHERE MONEY GOES – WHAT HAPPENS TO MARGII CONTRIBUTIONS

 

When it was asked why trainees are not given proper food, the Trainer Dada replied that he was not getting sufficient financial contributions from margiis. He added that if donations were good, then certainly the trainees would be properly feed.

 

However, later on I found that this is not true as most of the money that comes in goes to the upper / WT kitchen. That means Dadaji and some visiting avadhutas are eating up all the donations on rich, tasty food for themselves. Hence just the bare minimum is left for feeding the full team of trainees.

 

Even when a margii visits and wishes to arrange a nice meal or donate food for everyone in TC, that plan is rejected by CTS (i.e. Trainer Dada) and in turn he controls that money and spends very little on food for the trainees. This also I came to know.

 

Plus, in order to save his post, the Trainer Dada diverts money towards Rudrananda.

 

 

STYLE OF AM EDUCATION AT TC

 

Let’s again stand back and ask ourselves why such trainees felt inspired to attend TC. It is very easy to understand that all these youths reached from around India to get training and learn about AM philosophy: Both its theoretical and practical aspects.

 

But what is the reality that is going on?

 

One particular aspect they have learned first-hand is: How exploitation occurs when those at the top do not view others as their family members. This they have learned first-hand while in TC.

 

With regards to their theoretical learning, there is virtually no teaching going on at all.

 

The trainer Dada is busy all day with his local school kids. From early in the morning to evening time he is busy at his school in order to make money. He does not like to hire teachers as that would be an added expense.

 

But the truth is that our Trainer Dada should supervise the school on the greater level and let hired teachers run the daily operations of school. In addition, the trainees should be taught how to supervise a school. That is why Baba has given such a system.

 

Unfortunately the trainer Dada just drowns himself in the mundane dealings of the school and totally overlooks his duties at WT Trainer. All because he is more concerned with making money at the school. So when he returns back to the TC in the late evening, he is tired and he reads the newspaper and plays computer games. That is how the days pass. There is no time to teach anything to the trainees. Yet they yearn to learn about Ananda Marga.

 

We should remember that the WT Trainer Dada is a trainer first and a school principal second – not vice-versa. His title is WT trainer. Yet this role he mostly overlooks.

 

So after three years in TC, it is sadly apparent what our new brahmacariis have learned about AM. Just ask such new wts a question and see what they say.

 

For instance, ask them to explain about brahmacakra, kosa, loka, three causes of sin – all these basic points. They will not know the answers. Believe it or not, some passed and do not even know how to dance kaoshikii and tandava, yama and niyama, 16 Pts etc.

 

Please do not think that I am blaming our trainees; they are A-grade. All blame goes to those in-charges who do not feed or teach them. They neither teach the trainees by their conduct nor in the classroom. No education is imparted whatsoever.

 

Instead those in-charges impose all kinds of dogmas and complexes. Such bosses eat while their trainees starve.

 

This cycle of exploitation goes on and on.

 

Tomorrow these trainees will become brahmacariis and then avadhutas. Unfortunately, many of them will pursue these exploitative methods with their juniors. This is vicious cycle that is being perpetuated.

 

It is no different from the mother-in-law who beats her daughter-in-law. One day that daughter-in-law grows up to be a mother-in-law and she does the same repressive tactics to her daughter-in-law.

 

The situation is so extreme that one trainee became mad and was kicked out from TC and his laokika parents were searching for him. For all we know he may be begging in Varanasi or has been placed in some lunatic asylum.

 

 

THE REALITY STARING US IN THE FACE

 

Here is one hard fact we all must face. These days the number of aged Wts is much more than the number of incoming Wts. Should this trend continue then we will have a severe crisis and shortage of wts in AM. At present more than 50% of our workers are 50+ yrs of age. No one likes to think like this, but these wts are not going to live forever.

 

We should all take it upon ourselves to consider this situation: Ineveitable shortage of workers. Any organisation suffering from this type of trend will become extinct in a short time. This was the recent trend of Christianity in Europe and now today there are thousands of churches that are essentially vacant. The church has basically given up in various European countries.

 

Here the point is that our WT training centre has a big role to maintain and protect those who come to train. But that is not happening. Our level of retention is very low. If 100 reach Training Centre then from the time of their arrival to the time they have graduated and worked in the field for one year, then only 5 remain as workers. That means over the course of training and within the first 12 months of field work, we are losing 95% of those who enter TC. That is a very dramatic figure. No organisation can survive with such a low rate of retention.

 

Whereas if our trainees and new workers are instilled with a deep sense of family feeling and supported by their seniors, then one can weather all kinds of problems etc. Then our retention rate will be much, much higher.

 

Unfortunately when a family feeling is not cultivated and trainees are not encouraged in sadhana or given the opportunity to garner a deep spiritual base, then so many young trainees and wts are lost – they just leave entirely. Without the requisite spiritual base and guidance, their chance of gaining success as a Wt is very low. So we cannot blame them as individuals. Only we must reassess what is going on in out Training Centre(s).

 

Of course I have great regard for our trainer Dada; he is a learned person. Dadaji has extraordinary qualities but he mostly uses them for Oriya trainees, not others. If that same ethic was applied to all, then things would be much different. Dadaji must sacrifice and pour his heart for all trainees, not just for those who hail from Oriya. Then so many good things will result.

 

 

THIS IS WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING

 

All this is not a fairy tale. This is the unfortunate scene happening in Varanasi TC. If you have real interest to know more, talk to any trainee who just came from TC or do your homework of investigative reporting.

 

Pushing aside others plight by claiming their ordeals as mere hearsay is heartless and not the way of any true sadhaka. We have to have sympathy for those suffering and we must have the courage to step forward and put a stop to their misery. Things must be set right.

 

 

BABA’S BLESSING

 

By Baba’s grace He has given the perfect remedy for addressing the problems going on in the Varanasi Training Centre.

 

Baba says, “The incapability to recognize the requirements of others because of insensitiveness is a psychic disease. Those afflicted with this disease are also members of the vast human family; they are also our brothers and sisters. So, either by making humanitarian appeals or by creating circumstantial pressure, arrangements will have to be made to cure them of their ailment.” (Problems of the Day, #4)

 

Namaskar,

Nagendra

 

 

Note 1: HERE IS THE FIRST LETTER OF THIS SERIES

 

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/04/exploited-trainees-of-varanasi-tc-part.html

 

 

Note 2: OTHER REPORTS ABOUT WT TRAINING CENTRE

 

The below letters tell more of the story and history of life at training centre. Please write in with your experiences and thoughts as this is a critical matter of utmost importance to all.

 

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2007/05/gtc-eye-witness-report.html

 

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2007/03/training-centre-is-also-responsible.html

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“A’ma’re dekhe calecho prabhu more pu’n’ya phale…” (PS 4477)

 

Purport:

 

Baba, because of the virtue of having Your grace, I can feel that You are so close and that You are looking at me all the time. Baba, You are with me each and every moment, in the brilliant effulgence and in the cimmerian darkness– constantly, all the 24hrs. In my good days and bad days always You are and will remain along with me. Baba, You are so gracious.

Baba, when I am surrounded by the fog of hopelessness and despair, & when my life becomes burdened, then it is very difficult for me to move ahead– all my inspiration is lost. And when I cry in pain and the tears are rolling down my cheeks like a river, and when I am drowned in pessimism, then I think that this life is useless and that this whole world is poisonous. In that case I feel it is better just to die. When I am in such a crisis, then with a very pleasant and sonorous voice, Someone appears in my mental abode and in a very sweet & intimate way He whispers, ‘Do not worry, I love you’.

Baba, the effulgence of Your divine love never gets extinguished; Your love is eternal and never fades or ends. In this mundane world, everything comes and goes. Baba only You are eternal and infinite. You are the sweetest Entity. You are that force that never stops. You are that magnificent bliss that never diminishes– always that bliss is growing and growing. Baba, You are my everything: The be-all and end-all of the life. By Your grace I am under Your shelter. Baba, in the deep core of my heart the only request I have is that: Please do not forget that I am sheltering myself in You, at Your lotus feet.

Baba, by Your infinite grace-compassion You are remaining by my side always…

 

 

******************************************

Sarva’unga’sana and Vipariitakarani Mudra

 

“Question: What is the difference between sarva’unga’sana and vipariitakarani mudra?”

 

“Answer: In sarva’unga’sana we have to fix the mind at the point of the toes, whereas in vipariitakarani mudra we have to fix the citta or mind stuff at the tip of the nose or at the navel point.” (YP, p.117-18)

 

Note: Sarva’unga’sana and vipariitakarani are very similar– they are almost the same thing. Just a few little differences are there:

 

(1) In sarva’unga’sana the mind and eyes are fixed on the center point between the two big toes while in vipariitakarani mudra the mind focuses on the navel or the tip of the nose.

 

(2) When the body is very straight and it does not have to exert a continuous effort to maintain that position– rather it is easy and comfortable to hold that posture– then it is sarva’unga’sana. Whereas mudras, such as vipariitakarani mudra, demand a constant and ongoing effort to maintain the posture. Asanas, on the other hand require a little effort to enter into the position and thereafter it is comfortable and easy to maintain.

 

(3) In sarva’unga’sana and vipariitakarani mudra, although the postures look the same but the effort exerted and way of approach are a little different as explained earlier. And in addition they effect the body in different ways. Sarva’unga’sana affects the glands & cakras, and the secretion of the hormone; while mudras give strength to the muscles and nevers. These ideas have been given by Baba in His various discourses.

 

(4) In WT reporting sessions, Baba used to sometimes give atonement by demanding that some or all do vipariitakaranai for a long time. Sometimes for 1/2 hr, 1 hour, 2 hrs, at a stretch. Naturally that qas quite enjoyable for everyone to do. And the underlying reason behind this was that the majority of WT had acidity problems and this Vipariitakarani mudra was the cure. So in the name of doing atonement it was actually Baba’s blessing.

********************************************

 

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Unique Quality of Human Mind

Date: Wed, 09 Mar 2011 14:28:17 +0530

To: am-global@earthlink.net

From:

Subject: Unique Quality of Human Mind

 

Baba

 

== UNIQUE QUALITY OF HUMAN MIND ==

 

Namaskar,

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with a human mind that has a very

special quality. And it is this very quality that allows each and

everyone of us to achieve success in sadhana.

 

And what is that quality? Namely that, the mind will gradually adjust

with and develop affinity for anything in which it is involved.

 

That means that even if sadhana is difficult– even if sadhana seems

impossible– if one tries and perseveres just a little bit, then

gradually the mind will become quite adept at doing sadhana. In fact,

with just a little effort, the mind will become so immersed in sadhana

that it will not wish to do anything else.

 

Of course, the whole process can work in the opposite direction as well

if one is constantly submerged in crude affairs. So one must be careful

and pay heed to their mental occupation and daily activities.

 

Unfortunately, materialists do not at all understand this philosophy of

mind, but in AM, our entire philosophy revolves around this practical

science.

 

 

ENTIRE GIST OF OUR AM PHILOSOPHY

 

In innumerable discourses and throughout our entire AM ideology, Baba is

teaching us about the philosophy of mind: That mind is dynamic and it

must be channelised towards the spiritual realm.

 

Mano karoti karma’n’i mano lipyate pa’tako;

Manashca tanmana’ buddhaya’ na pun’yam’ na ca pa’tako

 

Baba says, “It is the human mind which is the cause of bondage or

liberation. If the mind is in bondage, the person is also in bondage.

Similarly, if the mind is liberated the person is also liberated. After

all, it is the human mind which engages in auspicious actions. Now, if

this mind is kept engrossed in the ideation of Parama Purus’a, then it

gets totally merged in Consciousness.” (NHNS-1)

 

So the main emphasis of our spiritual philosophy is to goad the mind

towards Him and then automatically one will reach the goal. One can find

this idea is nearly every AM discourse.

 

And verily the whole of 16 Points and all our life practices are geared

towards making the mind more subtle, spiritual, and devotional. Baba has

blessed us with this special way of living.

 

And He furthermore assures us that this plan– this approach of goading

the mind towards higher pursuits– will work, cent per cent, with each

and every human being, irregardless of their background.

 

Baba says, “If an ordinary sinner or a confirmed sinner remains absorbed

in the thought of Parama Purus’a to the exclusion of all other thoughts,

then his mind becomes pointed.” (NHNS-1)

 

 

IMPORTANCE OF THEORETICAL UNDERSTANDING

 

So it is extremely important for each and every sadhaka to theoretically

understand how this science of mind works. Because doing sadhana in this

present era is not at all easy. But if one understands that if the mind

is goaded– even a wee-bit– towards the devotional sphere, then little

by little the mind will yearn to do sadhana.

 

That is why if one is having trouble in sadhana, one should not worry.

Only one should take this as a sign that they need to goad the mind a

little bit more towards that way of life. That means doing a few more

minutes of kiirtan, svadhyaya, mantra japa, etc, and then soon the mind

will adjust and move in that direction.

 

And side by side one must also understand that engaging in mundane

affairs or debased practices will obviously divert their mind farther

and farther away from sadhana.

 

So to gain success, one must have this theoretical understanding about

the philosophy of mind, then one can certainly move ahead.

 

And again the underlying idea is: The mind will learn to like whatever

it is engaged in, whether that thing is good or bad– accordingly the

mind will adjust and flow in that direction.

 

 

A FEW REAL-LIFE EXAMPLES

 

Suppose a new margii is immersed in mundane affairs like their job,

non-margii social relations, and various other non-spiritual pursuits,

but internally he wants to do sadhana. Then all he has to do is follow

the precepts of manan (thinking about Him), shravan (singing & listening

His name), and niddhidhyasana (ideating on Him) and then automatically

in a very short time that new margii will be infused with tremendous

speed in sadhana as the mind will like to do more and more sadhana.

 

And this will not just work with new margiis– but with any Ananda

Margii, even one who has been on the path for 50 years.

 

Because the theory always applies universally that the mind will adjust

with whatever it is given to do. And if we involve in dhyana, japa,

kiirtan, satsaunga, prabhat samgiita, brahmacarya, and so many of our

other AM practices, then naturally the mind will swiftly move in that

direction– towards that sublime ideal.

 

So there is hope for each and everyone– and we should always be wary

not slip in the opposite direction either.

 

Because let’s say there is an established margii who is involved in

sadhana but little by little starts engaging in more and more mundane

affairs like his business, or crude games, or excess gossip, or useless

email conversations etc, then the mind will steadily drift away from

sadhana until finally that sadhaka will lose their spiritual flow

entirely. In fact, I can see in my own life how that has happened so

everyone should pay heed and be adamant in this regard.

 

This philosophy of mind is so powerful that if even an ideal man starts

associating with winos and drunks then over time he himself will start

to yearn for their company and begin swigging from the bottle.

 

Because mind will always run after and learn to like whatever activity

in which it is engaged. That is the whole

story.

 

 

PRACTICALLY APPLYING THIS TO OUR SADHANA

 

Thus as sadhakas living in this crude era, we should make a strict

sadhana routine & devotional program and stick to that. We should make a

sadhana quota whereby we do all our lessons two times daily as well as

involve in Guru Sakash, proper ideation before sleep, and as much

shravan, manan, niddhidhyasana as we can during the day.

 

Verily we should spiritualise the mind each and every moment of our

lives through constant japa and ideation. By this way we can and will

expedite our movement on the path– making sadhana an effortless and

blissful love affair.

 

We should utilise this philosophy of mind to our maximum advantage.

 

 

MATERIALISTS DO NOT UNDERSTAND

 

Truly we are fortunate and blessed to be aware about all this, because

in non-margii life the people think that their mental tendencies or

liking is not at all related with any philosophy. Just in their

simplistic outlook they think they like something because they were born

with that liking.

 

They do not at all realise that the mind is dynamic and that it can go

up or down depending on one’s physical and mental engagement.

 

Rather non-sadhakas think that whatever they like is fixed and

permanent– such as their attachment to meat-eating, pop music, sexual

relations etc. They think that these are part of their permanent way of

living and that they will like these things forever and ever.

 

But with just a little reflection anyone can see how their liking

changes according to the status of mind. Which is why no grown adult

likes to pass their days playing in the sandbox, even though when they

were 6 of 7 years of age playing in the sandbox was the greatest thing.

 

Indeed, one’s liking is so flexible and so changeable, one can even

learn to like something that they do not like. One may move to Tangiers

and totally dislike the place but then after being there for 5 years one

may come to realise that Tangiers is now their favourite place, and when

their job gets transferred to Venice, they may be angry and upset that

they have to leave Tangiers.

 

Such is the way the mind works. As sadhakas we understand this and

should use it to our advantage. And side by side we should teach this

idea to non-margiis so they can also grow and develop.

 

 

ALERT!! WARNING!! BEWARE!!

 

Let us never forget that each and every human being has come from past

animal lives so those old, crude propensities are still in effect– to

some or more degree. And people are well familiar with those crude

enjoyments. That is why it all so easy and quite common for the masses

to move in this negative direction– i.e. negative pratisaincara. And

the mind will learn to like that making one’s descent very swift and harsh.

 

But as sadhakas we must never fall prey to such degradation– rather we

are to keep ourselves moving in the sentient flow and pull others in

that current as well.

 

 

SUMMARY

 

By this entire theory & topic, we should understand that the human mind

has a unique & special quality; as sadhakas we generally want to do

sadhana and reach the goal, but sometimes the mind does not like to

cooperate. In that case even then must try and bring mind in a more

spiritual flow by doing svadhaya, japa, kiirtan, and dhyana etc. Because

whether mind likes all this or not, gradually the mind will adjust and

learn to like it– thereby accelerating one’s movement on the path.

 

 

BABA’S BLESSING

 

By His grace, as margiis we have the theoretical understanding as well

as the practices to get success and reach the goal whereas crude people

will become one with matter.

 

Baba says, “Human beings should not be anxious under any circumstances,

Parama Purus’a is always with everyone. If one has love for Parama

Purus’a, the door of liberation or salvation will immediately open.” (16

May 1980, Varanasi)

 

Namaskar,

Manjiit

 

 

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

 

“Ghum bha’ungiye na’ ja’niye ja’o niye se keno sudu’re…” P.S. 2336

 

Purport:

 

Baba You have broken my slumber and blessed me with samvit– without

my awareness to which unknown divine world are You taking me along with

You, in my dhyana. I do not know about my present, past, or what will be

the future. I am unaware completely. Only this much I know, that You

love me. Baba, by Your grace I have full faith and trust on You. What

You are doing for me– that is best. What way You like, You go on doing.

My whole existence is at Your disposal, surrender to You.

Baba You have colored and filled my mind and made divinely intoxicated

with the songs, rhythm, & melodies of Prabhat Samgiita. Baba by Your

grace my mind is filled with the bliss. Baba, You have made the flowers

of love blossom in my heart. You have made my heart soft. I love You so

much. In Your longing my eyes got filled with the tears.

Baba You are the formless jewel of the ocean of form [1]. Baba by Your

grace I feel in my heart that indeed You love me. My whole life is

floating in Your divine flow, in the unknown melody and tune of the

divine world– devotional songs & Prabhat Samgiita. Baba, You have

blessed me with samvit and You have changed my whole life by Your grace,

by Your love…

 

 

NOTES FOR PS 2336:

 

[1] Rupe sa’gare (ocean of the form); arupa man’i (formless jewel). The

poetic language which Baba has used in this Prabhat Samgiita indicates

that Parama Purusa is formless yet when He comes in the devotees’ heart

in the form of Sadguru He is the ocean of the form of that formless

jewel. That means He has come in form because one cannot have a personal

relation with a formless entity. So the Parama Purusa of philosophy is

impersonal, and the Parama Purusa of devotees’ heart is a Personal Entity.

 

 

 

***************************************

Size of Cranium and Spirituality

 

Baba says, “People may think that they cannot make rapid spiritual progress

unless the size of the brain, and hence the size of the cranium, is increased.

But this is not so because human beings can increase the jurisdiction of their thinking.” (Proutist Economics)

***************************************

 

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Baba’s Procedural Order About Sadhana

Date: Sun, 24 Oct 2010 23:43:46 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Ram Sahay Kulshresth
Subject: Baba’s Procedural Order About Sadhana

Baba

“Sakal duya’r khule dile prabhu, Va’ta’yan-pathe a’lo elo…” (P.S. 2429)

Purport:

Baba, by Your grace You have come and opened all the doors and windows,
and a huge effulgence has started pouring in. From the eastern horizon
the crimson dawn is visible. The darkness is fast fading away.

Baba, in the past there was a domination of dogma and groupism all
around. Countless superstitions and negative samskaras were doing their
naked dance. But now, with the presence of Your divine effulgence, in
the blink of an eye those dogmas and negative things have disappeared.
And the  beings of darkness have dissolved into thin air. I do not know
where  they have gone– just they disappeared.

Baba, with Your love and punishment You are keeping everyone in Your
shelter. O’ Baba, You are caring for everyone…

== BABA’S PROCEDURAL ORDER ABOUT SADHANA ==

Namaskar,
We all know Baba places great emphasis on our sadhana practice as it is
only by properly doing sadhana that we can grow from crude animality to
human, and from human to ideal human being, and from ideal human to divine.

Just as an illiterate person can become a doctor, professor, or
a lawyer through proper schooling and education.

Similarly…

Sadhana wholly transforms one’s mind, body, and consciousness. The whole
personality gets changed by proper sadhana. That is why our Guru has
given a huge importance to doing sadhana.

Unfortunately many of us haven’t been able to realise this basic fact in
our practical life. As long as we have not realised the depth of
sadhana, we should go on doing our meditation with utmost sincerity. Let
us not forget that sadhana is a scientific process and by right effort a
result must come.

And not only must we practice sadhana, but we must tell those who are
obsessed with materialism as well. They must understand that materialism
is not everything. This truth must be understood by all.

For all these reasons, sadhana is very important and here is Baba’s
Procedural Order on sadhana.

—-

“STANDARD OF SADHANA”

“(A) 4 Times Sadhana: Doing sadhana 4 times daily is compulsory for all
wholetime workers. It will be the duty of all wt workers to maintain the
record of their 4 time sadhana routine in their compulsory daily diary.
All trade heads are also hereby instructed to see very particularly the
sadhana routine of each and every individual worker of their concerning
trade. Trade heads must check whether their workers do sadhana 4 times a
day or not. DPS will be directly responsible for implementing this
system very strictly. DPS is also to create his own method for
collecting information every month regarding workers of different trades
who do not or did not perform sadhana as per system in a particular
month. Such names are to be recorded and immediate steps to be taken by
the DPS against the concerning workers and the supervisory worker of
that trade. A monthly statement regarding the irregularities in 4 times
sadhana by the workers of different trades and disciplinary steps taken
by the DPS against the worker must be submitted to the higher authority
every month.”

“General Margiis: Doing sadhana 2 times daily is compulsory for all
margiis in general. DPS is to keep candour eye through his RDPS and DDPS
on each and every margii regarding their performance of individual
sadhana 2 times a day. Any slackness in this respect is to be pointed
out by the concerning RDPS and DDPS to the margiis concerned and the
margii is to be made to understand that by not doing sadhana he is
committing sin and that he must be very very strict in 2 times sadhana.
RPDS and DDPS are to keep a regular record of the margiis of their
respective areas regarding two times sadhana. DPS must keep a regular
watch on the records.”

“B) Asana and Ekadashii: In order to help in regularity and improvement
in sadhana, every worker will have to follow very strictly the rules of
asanas (daily compulsory) and ekadashii and they will maintain this
record in their daily diary. The DPS will keep very close watch on this
and necessary steps must be immediately taken.”

“C) In order to improve the sadhana of the WT workers and increase their
attachment to it, the 7th lesson (Sahaj Pranayama) may be made available
for practice to maximum wt workers. This will immediately increase their
inclination towards sadhana.”

(Procedural Order on Sadhana as given by Baba)

—-

Most senior Wts have this above Procedural Order but they do not like
share with their junior wts and margiis, otherwise those seniors
themselves will be pointed out for not following this order.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with this great sadhana practice of
Ananda Marga and we should realise this quest in our daily life.

Baba says, “The worship of Brahma should be done scrupulously, or else
you will later regret and bemoan the futility of your life with the last
drop of your tears at your last hour. You should make your life
worthwhile through your sa’dhana’. How much can your worldly friends and
relations do for you? After your death your relatives may perhaps ask,
“How much money has he left behind?” Your friends may go to the
crematorium and indulge in flattering reminiscences about you. Your
husband or wife may cry for you for about ten or twelve days and then
regain their normal composure. Your lot will be only a profound sigh – a
record of the futility and frustration of your life. So do not waste
your time lest you later have to repent…That is why I say that you
will have to dedicate yourselves to His feet wholly and unreservedly.
You will earn godliness in proportion to the extent that you surrender
yourselves, and finally, after merging that acquired godliness of yours
in His Entity, you will attain eternal bliss.” (SS-3)

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Our Marga is Colourful

Date: Thu 23 Sep 2010 21:46:38 -0000

To: AM-GLOBAL

From: “Jawaharlal Thakur”

Subject: Our Marga is Colourful

Baba

“(Tumi) a’lo jhalmal u’s’a’y ele, a’ndha’rer ja’l chinrile…” (PS 3983)

Purport:

Baba, You have come in my heart when the blissful dawn was glittering

in effulgence. By Your grace, You have wiped away the net of staticity

and crude darkness from my mind. In a flash You have also removed the

dogma which had accumulated since ages. Baba, You are so beautiful.

O’ my dearmost, You know how to make such a divine magical display. By

Your grace You have created a heavenly panorama– complete with the

beauty and grandeur of colour, by Your divine play. Baba, in the blink

of the eye, You bring lowly and depraved persons close to Your bosom,

without making any differentiation or disparity about who is virtuous

and who is sinful.

Baba, You are my beginning as well as my end, my Goal, my everything.

Baba, my whereabouts, my name, my place, my address– everything has

become one with You, by Your grace. Baba I offer You my heartfelt

surrender and sastaunga pranam thousands, millions, crores, & an

infinite number of times– again & again.

Baba, by Your divine grace You have taken advent in my heart and showered me

in Your supreme effulgence. You are my own; You are my everything…

== OUR MARGA IS COLOURFUL ==

Namaskar,

Our Ananda Marga is colourful. People have entered into AM with all

kinds of mentalities, with all types of psychic tendencies, and with a

diverse range of mental constitutions. To accommodate all, Baba has

graciously given something for everyone. In turn, we have the

opportunity to choose which approach suits us best.

Some are oriented toward the path of jinana and some towards bhakti.

Some prefer intellectual explanations whereas other tend towards

devotional understanding. Some like to sing kiirtan thinking, ‘I am

overcoming all internal and external obstacles’, while others may prefer

simply to ideate only on Baba.

Different minds prefer different thought ideations– and that makes the

world colourful.

None should therefore think that any particular approach is the

be-all, end-all. Because Baba has given and approved them all: From

sadhana to microvita theory, from kiirtan to kaoshikii, from Prabhat

Samgiita to sristi cakra, Baba has provided diverse explanations to

appeal to the wide array of people & mentalities in AM.

Hence, no one should feel pressured to adopt or limit oneself to a

particular style, explanation, or reasoning. Because Ananda Margiis come

in all shapes and sizes.

A FEW PRACTICAL EXAMPLES

Below are some clear-cut examples of how various AM practices can be

pursued in different ways.

(A) DHYANA: In dhyana, Baba has given various bhavas: Madhura bhava

(lover relation), dasya bhava (Master-slave relation), vatsalya bhava

(Parama Purusa a as child), sakhya bhava (friend relation), and

Father-son relation etc. These are all approved methods, given by Baba,

for doing dhyana. However that does not mean that every devotee must

follow all of the above. Those involved in sakhya bhava may not have an

iota of interest in vatsalya bhava, and vice versa. Thus every sadhaks

has the power of choice: To experiment and see which one is most

appropriate for their mental make-up, for their link with Parama Purusa.

(B) PRABHAT SAMGIITA: With regards to Prabhat Samgiita, some prefer to

analyse and study the style of music such as the type of raga or ragini,

yet side by side Baba has also said that, ‘Prabhat Samgiita is written

with the ink of the love of the heart of the devotees to make link or communicate

with Parama Purusa’. So it is not just music only. So these are two

vastly different ways of relating with Prabhat Samgiita. And it will

depend upon one’s mental characteristics as to which they prefer. Some

opt for a more jinani approach whereas others prefer the more personal

and intimate manner. Everyone can choose for themselves.

(C) MICROVITA: About microvita, Baba has given vast and complex theories

about this smallest energy form– the ultimate building block of this

universe. Chapters and chapters can be read and studied about this

scientific phenomenon. And many jinanis may spend years immersed in that

approach. At the same time, in His RU discourse, ‘Microvitum and Its

Effect on Human Body and Human Mind’, Baba says, ‘After all microvita is

nothing but Cosmic grace, I just use the term microvita to make you

laugh’. This He has said in Hindi part of His discourse, which was not

printed. But if anyone listens to the cassette of His RU discourse, they

will hear Baba say like this. So again, based on one’s mentality, there

are a variety of ways of thinking about microvita.

(D) CREATION THEORY (Srsti Cakra): Similarly, one can think of creation

theory using terms like jadasphota, pratisaincara, various tattvas, and

other technical terminology, or one can simply think that, ‘He was all

alone, all by Himself, so He created this vast universe’.

Thus depending on one’s mental framework, there are varieties of ways of

interacting with our AM practices and philosophy.

KAOSHIKII AND AVARTA KIIRTAN ALSO

And the same can be said with regards to kaoshikii and avarta kiirtan also.

There is a very technical explanation of kaoshikii where one takes on a

different ideation for each direction, and side by side one can simply

think of pleasing Baba while doing their kaoshikii dance.

In avarta kiirtan also there are two diverse approaches. In a more

jinani style, the aspirant can adopt different ideations for each

direction. And these ideations generally focus on oneself, ‘I am

cleansing myself with fire, I am controlling this universe, I am

unstoppable’, etc etc, or one can simply think of Baba and ideate on

loving and pleasing Him.

Some sadhakas may like a more technical & analytical explanation and

some prefer the more simple approach of pleasing Him. Personally I

prefer the latter way. I do not like to engage in all kinds of

sophisticated or lengthy descriptions when dancing avarta kiirtan.

Rather I prefer Baba’s simple method of bringing the mind to sahasrara

cakra and thinking of Him. But if others prefer to think, ‘I am cleaning

this entire universe etc’ then that is also fine.

We should always keep in mind that Baba has given something for everyone

in Ananda Marga. And we should be accepting and tolerant of all the

different styles and at the same time choose a way that is most

appropriate for us.

PEOPLE HAVE COME INTO AM FOR DIFFERENT REASONS

After all, we have to remember that people have entered into AM for a

vast array of reasons. Some have come because they wanted to travel

overseas, some have come because they could not get a job in the private

sector, some have come to escape their jail sentences, some have come to

find a wife or husband, some have come to get away from their wife or

husband, some have come to do karma yoga, some have come to get a high

post, some have come to be regarded as a high yogi, some have come to

fulfill His mission (A’tma moks’a’rtham’ jagaddhita’ya ca), and some

have come to please Him.

Regardless, all are our brothers and sisters, we should embrace all, and

help everyone become successful in their human life. There are various

grades and we appreciate everyone.

Some like to sing kiirtan thinking that they are becoming clean and

becoming a force in this universe, and some like to sing for the sole

reason of loving and pleasing Parama Purusa.

Some bhaktas do not feel comfortable relying on their own

unit ego. They do not like to think that ‘I am doing everything’,

because they know that unit beings cannot do anything, Parama Purusa

does everything.

It all depends on one’s quality of mind as Baba has created something

for everyone.

IN THE NOTES BELOW

Below, in the notes, are the technical descriptions of Avarta Kiirtan &

Kaoshikii. And if one wishes to pursue their practice in that way they

can. At the same time, no sadhaka should feel burdened that they must do

their kiirtan and kaoshikii like that. Remember that Baba has explained

His AM practices and philosophies in various ways to appeal to various

grades of people, various standards of mind. Some are jinan oriented and

some are bhakti oriented. Everyone should do what feels most comfortable

for them. Baba has approved multiple ways for this very purpose: To

appeal to one and all.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has designed this Ananda Marga for everyone– and

verily all must come under the banner of AM. For this reason Baba has

given diverse ways of explaining AM practices and AM ideology. Because

everyone belongs in AM.

Baba says, “Remember, until every person in the universe accepts the

Ananda Marga ideology, you have no opportunity to rest.” (CC-2)

Baba says, “Now, these created beings, they being the progeny of the

same father, are members of the same Universal Family. We must not

forget this supreme fact.” (AV-14)

Namaskar,

Jawaharlal

Note 1: PEOPLE DO SADHANA FOR VARIOUS REASONS

As there are various grades of sadhakas in AM, people do sadhana for

various reasons. Some do sadhana to impress others, some do sadhana as

one requirement so that they can take their meal, some only do sadhana

in public, some fake their entire sadhana program, some do sadhana for

mental peace, some do sadhana for self-realisation, some do sadhana to

serve and please Him. So there are various grades of sadhakas in our Marga.

Note 2: TECHNICAL DESCRIPTIONS OF AVARTA KIIRTAN & KAOSHIKII

Here are two technical descriptions of our avarta kiirtan and kaoshikii

practices. These may appeal to some whereas others may not like to be

bothered by these more intricate approaches. In that case they may adopt

a more simple, devotional outlook.

Then there is also the notion that as these two below descriptions are

not printed in any book, then they may not be entirely accurate. If

anyone has the original cassette(s) where Baba discusses these below

approaches then they are requested to write this network immediately.

AVARTA KIIRTAN

1. I am the embodiment of sincerity.

2. I have the innate love for Paramapurusa.

3. I have purify my mind with the fire of devotion.

4. I am overcoming all internal and external obstacles.

5. O lord, take me onto your lap.

6. I surrender my everything to you.

KAOSHIKII

VERTICAL –I am now trying to establish a link with Paramapurusa.

RIGHT– I know the right way of making request to you, Paramapurus’a.

LEFT— I know how to carry out your command

FRONT– I know how to surrender completely to you.

BACK– I am ready to undergo discomfort when trouble comes.

STEPS—Oh, lord, I am now imitating your rhythm, brining your subtle

Consciouness into manifestation, into pratical forms.

OVERALL IDEATION:-

I, the microcosm, am establishing a link with my lord, the Nucleus of

the Macrocosm.

Note 3: SIMPLE DEVOTIONAL APPROACH

Some bhaktas may just prefer to sing kiirtan and dance kaoshikii with

their mind immersed in Him– to serve, please, and love Him. Trying to

follow all the above technical operations may verily take the mind away

from being with Baba. So adopting a purely devotional stance is also

alright if that is what you prefer. That freedom everyone has.

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How to Improve Sadhana: Part VII

To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Marcus “Mahadeva”
Date: Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:48:29 -0400
Subject: How to Improve Sadhana: Part VII

Baba

“Toma’r katha’ bheve din ket’e ja’y, toma’r chavi mane bha’se…” (P.S. 1391)

Purport:

Baba, by Your sweet grace my days are passing by blissfully thinking
about Your divine glory & Your wondrous tales. Baba, by Your grace, Your
beautiful form is always floating in my mind. O’ my dearmost, when I think
about Your sweet smile, then my mind gets inundated with waves of bliss–
and I completely forget about my existence in this mundane world. I forget
all the days and dates. Baba, by Your grace when I think about You then I
lose myself entirely in Your divine rhythm.

O’ my dearmost Baba, by singing Your glory and chanting Your kiirtan and
moving around You, then my heart always dances in bliss. It is nothing but
Your mercy and compassion how You have made me Your special medium. My
situation is that of a musical instrument and You are the Musician. Or, I
am a tiny drop of water and You are the vast, endless ocean. Baba, O’ my
Lord, by Your grace I am within You, and You are infinite.

Baba, there is only one thing that I ask: Please always remain in my
each and every breath. Baba, You are so gracious– I love You. You are my
everything…

== HOW TO IMPROVE SADHANA (PART 7) ==

Namaskar,
By following His every system of life, engaging in deep
sadhana, and applying our vision of neo-humanism, then no problem is too
huge and no solution is beyond our reach.

In that way what better way to begin than to sharpen our understanding of
16 Points. Here following is the next letter in this on-going series.

STORY ABOUT TRAVELS TO INDIA

One time when I visited India I went with the impression that each and
every person there wears a laungota. Now, after that trip, how far really
all non-margiis are doing or not I cannot say exactly. But when I passed
through the capital city and visited a gymnasium I met one male youth who
was practicing various exercises. And I came to know that he does in fact
wear a laungota. Though by his talk I understood that he wears it quite
differently from our dharmic AM system.

So what practices & customs the rishis taught long back in India got
totally changed and diluted. Because when the laungota was first introduced
thousands of years ago then surely the proper system was also given. But
now nearly all non-AM youths are using the laungota incorrectly.

Many overseas think that all the practices are present in India. But in the
general society so many things have gotten completely lost. In that regard
AM really is quite unique. Because all Baba’s teachings are completely
dharmic, yet outside AM so many false practices are being done.

Prior though I was not thinking that proper laungota wearing was such a
unique thing. I thought that all Indian citizens were wearing one because
even I saw a picture of the great monkey devotee– Hanuman– and he was
depicted wearing a laungota. Because in his mythological photo it shows him
wearing a laungota. So I thought surely that everyone is doing. But now I
see that it is not like that. Either people are not using one at all or
they are wearing it incorrectly.

And like that in general Indian society in each and every sphere, step by
step, they are losing or have totally lost the dharmic way of doing things.
Only it is Baba’s grace that He has blessed us with one completely new
outlook and all the proper practices.

POINT #4 OF SIXTEEN POINTS

So we Ananda Margiis are fortunate as Baba has lovingly given us all the
perfect guidelines for living a healthy and pure life where spiritual
attainment is guaranteed. In this regard 16 Points is the Supreme guideline.
This below letter revolves around point #4 of Sixteen Points:

“Males should Always Wear Laungota” (Pt 4 of 16 Pts)

BENEFITS & RESPONSIBILITIES

(a) The scientific system of wearing a laungota has many distinct
advantages such as all around protection, hygiene, balancing the glands,
sexual control.

(b) Boys should start wearing a laungota upon entering adolescence when the
glands develop and the pubic hair starts forming.

(c) It is the duty of parents to educate their children on these matters.

COPYING FEMALES WILL NOT SUFFICE

(d) Some people like to emulate certain things females do. But one should
know that the biological and anatomical needs of males and females are
different. So adopting underwear or hosiery in place of laungota will not
do. At least on this point males should not copy females.

A BASIC CHARACTERISTIC OF MARGIIS

(e) Wearing a laungota is a basic quality of all male margiis. Some fake
type of margiis like to use hosiery type of underwear. But by wearing
hosiery etc there is no benefit of the laungota system. No doubt for
females it is okay but for males it is not proper.

(f) In Ananda Nagar DMC / DMS when people bath in the river then they can
easily calculate who is non-margii, a new margii, or strong margii by
seeing whether that person is using a laungota or hosiery underwear etc.
Because wearing a laungota is one defining factor for dharmic margii life.

(g) A similar thing happens at different retreats also, where if someone is
not using a laungota then everyone just concludes that he is a fake
margii– i.e. some type of coward who is trustless.

PROPER USE & IMPROPER USE

Baba has instructed us on the safest, healthiest, and most effective way to
wear a laungota. These following points lead us in that direction:

(h) In India, there is an ongoing dogma that the genital should remain
downward when wearing a laungota. But this is entirely incorrect. Because
Baba has clearly directed us that the genital organ should always be lifted
in an upward position when wearing a laungota. Then only will it give
proper support, protection, & sexual control.

(i) The laungota should always fit snugly; it should be adequately tight–
yet not uncomfortably so. But it certainly should not be loose. Because
only when the laungota is sufficiently tight is it then safe for doing
tandava, kaoshikii, asanas etc. Whereas if it is just loosely attached then
various health concerns and / or diseases may arise such as hydrocele.
Because a loose fitting laungota gives scope for the nerves of the testes
to be stretched or ruptured.

(j) A fresh, clean laungota should be put on after our daily bath. And in
the warm season when we take two baths then after each bath we should
change into a new, clean laungota.

(k) Laungotas should be washed daily.

(l) Each laungota should be air-dried fully before being worn. It should
not still be moist or damp when putting it on otherwise that will only
cause problems such as skin rashes etc.

(m) One important point is that Baba is very strict that one’s own
laungota(s) is not to be used by others. Rather they are only for our own
personal use. So at big retreats and DMS where it is quite possible that
laungotas can easily get mixed up and mistakenly swapped around etc–
especially during the cleaning and hanging process– then one should be
very careful otherwise that is only inviting disease.

ABOUT THE COLOR

(n) Here it should be made clear that there is no set rule regarding the
color of the laungota. Anyone can select a color of their own personal
choice whether that be white, orange, purple, green, blue etc. All margiis
have complete freedom to use any color they like.

DESIGN

(o) Having a laungota with a square back is better than one with an angled
or diagonal cut as this gives more coverage and gives an over-all better fit.
(p) Best is for a laungota to be of single cloth thickness all-around. No
portion of the laungota should be 2 layers or double cloth as this makes it
bulky, uncomfortable, and it takes longer to dry.

(q) The overall stitching or fit of the laungota should be moderate. If it
is too big or it is too long then it creates problems as then one needs to
decide how to manage the extra material. So the design should be moderate:
Properly proportioned and not too wide in the back etc. On this regard we
should not blindly depend on tailors to do as they please, rather we should
present them with explicit instructions / measurements for how the
laungotas should be sewn. Otherwise they will be uncomfortable.

(r) Another matter is that if the laungota is very big and there is too
much material then the skin of the inner thighs will get scratched or rub.
So the length and width of the various aspects of the laungota should be
moderate– not too big and not too small.

(s) Some people use synthetic cloth for making their laungotas but that is
unhygienic and unhealthy. Best is that laungotas are made from 100% soft
cotton– unpolished soft cotton. That is most hygienic because cotton can
absorb sweat very quickly thereby saving the genitals from skin irritation
etc.

MISCELLANEOUS

(t) Actually around the globe the laungota is the speciality of AM. By
seeing all the laungotas on the laundry line then anyone can recognise our
AM jagrtis and ashrams quite easily. The laungota– flying on the line
outside– is a trademark symbol of AM jagrtis in India. So when travelling
around Delhi sector if you are in a new place and you cannot find the AM
jagrti then just ask any local where is the building that always has so
many laungotas hanging on the roof. And then certainly they will be able to
point you in the right direction & show you where the jagrti is.

IN REVIEW

So these are some of the thoughts and reflections which got gathered from
all around regarding point #4 of Sixteen Points. All margii brothers and
sisters are kindly requested and most welcome to share any further ideas
about this.

Namaskar,
Mahadeva

***************************************
Beauty of Sadhana

Baba says, “You must love the Supreme Consciousness (Parama Purusa) and
come near Him…When you reach the closest proximity to the Supreme
Consciousness, your mental waves will come in contact with His mental
waves. Then you will understand what is to be done, and what will be the
destiny of humanity in the near and distant future.”

“By your love for Him, you can easily understand this, and then whatever is
necessary to be done for the welfare of humanity through Neo-Humanism, you
shall certainly do. You have obtained a human form for this purpose; and
your body will be fully utilized when you have reached the closest
proximity to the Supreme Consciousness.” (SS-16 (H), p. 10-11)
***************************************

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Which One is First

Date: 29 Nov 2009 16:07:38 -0000
From: “Parashram Laghate”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Which One is First

Baba

“Lukiye path cala’ ekii liila’, lokalocane keno na’hi a’so…” (P.S. 3698)

Purport:

Baba, You are Ajana Pathik, You go on and on moving all about but in
Your journey You always keep Yourself hidden. You move around secretly.
Baba, You do all the things but nobody can see You; You do not like to come
within the field of vision.

To whom You love, they want to search You in their mind; they want to
hold You in their heart by the process of shravan, manan, niddhidhya’san &
dhyana. But You do not care and You do not like to be seen. You go on moving
secretly. Why like this. Why is Your style so jagged? You do not like to
move around following the straight, clear-cut path whereby everyone can see
You. That type of movement You do not like.

The eternal truth of straightforwardness which has been established since
ages, even a wee-bit of that You do not follow in Your movement. Rather
everything You do in hidden fashion; and that is no good.

It may be also possible that my understanding is not complete so that I
do not properly comprehend You. Baba, by the ordinary measuring scale You
are immeasurable. If anyone wants to understand You and get You, then You
escape and never get held. And remaining distant, You just smile.

Baba, what type of liila is this. You go on doing everything while
remaining hidden…

== WHICH ONE IS FIRST ==

Namaskar,
I learned one very good point at a seminar program some time ago in our
bhukti. There were some meaningful things I learned; you may be aware of
these things already. But because it was new for me, I thought I will
write them here.

In the asana teaching class, during the point about do’s and don’ts, one
point had been discussed which is a significant one. Tandava and
kaoshiki should be done before starting asanas. That means after doing
half-bath and other preparations, first kaoshiki should be done
for a sufficient amount of time (a few minutes) until one gets tired.
And then tandava should be done accordingly. Then after a brief rest,
asanas should be started.

This was all quite new to me. In the past, I was doing the opposite.

First I was doing asanas and then after that kaoshiki and then after that,
tandava. And finally, massage and shavasana. And then, waiting minimum
15-20 minutes. Then if I was hungry, then I used to take food.

I want to make it more clear, what my routine was up till now. Before
starting asana, I usually finish sadhana. Whatever time I dedicate for
that. So first of all sadhana, all the lessons. And then asanas according
to the guideline of acaryas. And finally kaoshiki and tandava. This was my
sequence.

So the new point was, that the practice of dances should be done first –
kaoshikii then tandava – and then asanas. This should be the cycle.

I was not practicing in this fashion, so naturally I was curious. What
is the reason why tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Then Dadaji replied, by asking one margii to read this following rule of
asanas from CC-3, rule #18.

Baba says, “It is not prohibited for the practitioner of asanas to practise
free-hand exercise, running or sports, but just after asanas all these are
prohibited.” (CC-3, p.26)

This above asana rule from CC III leads in that direction. The spirit
of this point is that tandava and kaoshiki should not be done after asanas.

Dada continued, “The definition of asana is “Sthir sukham a’sanam”: That
is, ‘The posture by which one gets composure’.

As, Baba says in Caracarya-3, “Asana means ‘a position in which one feels
comfortable – ‘Sthirasukhama’sanam.'” (CC-3, p.23)

Describing about asanas Baba says, that if you do some asana, then
remaining in that very posture is not difficult – rather it is calming.
Such is the nature of our asana practice.

Altogether asanas are a practice when the breathing is normal, not very
fast. The limbs are not moving fast. Everything is done in a very calm and
quiet way. It is not like running or jumping, or fast exercise. So two
divisions are there. One is soft exercise like asana. And one is fast like
running and jumping, and many more.

Whatever glandular effect kaoshiki and tandava has, that is a different
issue. But these dances have a different quality than the peace and
tranquillity and smoothness of asanas. Because when doing kaoshiki and
tandava also, the breathing goes very fast and the body gets tired quickly. Whereas
in asana, the practitioner does not get tired. Especially those who practice
asanas regularly realize this fact.

According to the CC-3 rule #18, kaoshiki and tandava should not be done
after asanas. The best is that kaoshiki and tandava, one should practice
prior to asanas. Dada concluded like this.

After listening to this in-depth discussion, I was convinced. Since then I
am practicing kaoshiki-tandava, and then asanas. This sequence I follow.
You may be practicing asanas since 20, 30, or 40 years or more. What is your
experience – what have you been doing?

Baba’s teaching is timeless. We should read this following one.

Baba says, “Without attaining all-round purification it is impossible for
a sadhaka to experience real spiritual ideation. On the path of spirituality,
bhava (ideation) is the main factor.” (DT-2, p.51)

Namaskar,
Parashram

Note: Dada was also giving the difference between asana and mudra. Asana and
mudra are both soft exercise. But if the posture is difficult, then that
comes in the category of mudra. Just like lotus posture. Padmasana. It is
not mudra. It is an asana. Those who practice can sit for a long time. But,
mudra is completely different. You have to do constant efforts to remain in
mudra. For example, udha’yan mudra. For that you have to constantly pull
your belly inside. It is constant effort. It is not like asana.

***************************************
Sadhana Tips

Baba says, “While doing spiritual practices (meditation) when the aspirant
is required to direct his mind toward Parama Purus’a, then one must not
move, or walk, or practice sit-ups, push-ups etc. One’s physical body
should be motionless.” (APH-5, p. 345)

**************************************

Read Full Post »

Human Baby in Monkey’s Care

Now... "true yoga lost its charm in the eyes of those people-- it remained as some physical exercise, nothing do to with the unification of atma and Paramatama" - Baba

From: “Jorge Santana”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Human Baby in Monkey’s Care
Date: Wed, 15 Jul 2009 07:18:53 -0500

Baba

PS Intro: In the following song, the term ‘parii’ (angel) has been used to
denote Parama Purusa Baba. So in Prabhat Samgiita, the term ‘parii’ does
not mean some dogmatic religious angel.

“Ghor timire ma’tha’ nat kore bosechilum ekela’…” (P.S. 1946)

Purport:

In the deep cimmerian darkness, with my head hung low in shame and
sadness, I was sitting along in an isolated place. One angel came from the
golden divine world, extending its wings.

The angel told me, “I am always along with you; you are never alone or
helpless– nor in the past were you ever alone. You are unaware that I am
the angel of divinity and that I am your eternal companion. I reside
eternally in your mind. So don’t ever be perturbed or get affected by the
spell of misery.”

The divine angel further revealed to me that, “Even if you are
forgetting me and keeping distance, even if you don’t remember or think
about Me, I will never forget you. Lovingly I care for you and fulfill all
your needs. Even by mistake I cannot avoid you. I always keep you close to
me.”

In the deep, isolated dark place immersed in avidya maya, with my
hanging head I was crying in misery. The angel from the divine world came
close and blessed me…

== HUMAN BABY IN MONKEY’S CARE ==

Namaskar
In Nama’mi Krs’n’a’ Sundaram while talking about Lord Krsna’s gifts to
humanity Baba has also explained a little about Lord Shiva’s contribution.

And there Baba says that at the time of Lord Shiva society was very primitive. People
were not even aware about the common basics of life. To address this, Lord
Shiva organised the society in various ways. And in the field of music,
Shiva invented different ra’gas and ra’giniis, and He also gave various
systematic dances. Otherwise, prior to that, human beings were not aware
about the science of music and dance. Especially their dance was not based
on any system other than the way animals dance in their happy mood, without
any system, just haphazard.

LORD SHIVA’S TIME

So because of the contribution of Lord Shiva, common people learned about
music and they came to know what octaves are and they learned how to sing
properly. In that ancient time musical instruments were very few. During
Lord Shiva’s period there was only the viina. And He created various types
of musical notes which were very difficult to play but they had very high
spiritual vibrations. The description of that music Baba has narrated in
Shabda Cayanika’.

Baba says, “When Shiva first started His musical sadhana then He had to do
it with this viin’a’…This viina is a quite simple string
instrument…Over time this viin’a’ changed into different kinds of
viin’a’s and viin’s, the sitar, esraj, tamboura, violin, and so many
others…But Shiva had to make practically superhuman efforts with this
primitive viina’. He had to invent the scale. He had to string his
instrument very carefully to get proper sound. It was Shiva who made the
ra’gas and ra’gin’iis. He introduced soul-stirring modulation into them.”
(SC-2, p. 127)

ADVENT OF SHRII SHRII ANANDAMURTIJI

And this time when Parama Purusa came as Mahasambhuti in the form of Lord
Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. He has given Prabhat Samgiita. Certainly Baba’s
each and every gift is unparalleled. But Prabhat Samgiita is one of the
most unique. Because Prabhat Samgiita covers not only all the strata of
human life but it resonates within the soft core of the devotional heart of
each and every disciple of Baba.

If one reads any Baba’s discourse that may give knowledge and guidance, but
it may not be able to give that type of feeling which vibrates the soft
lyre of the heart. And with that vibrated devotional heart, devotees feel
close to Parama Purus’a Baba.

BABA’S PRACTICAL APPROACH: THEORY + HOW TO DO

We all know that Samgiita has three aspects to it: (a) song, (b) dance, and
(c) music. All these three components Baba Himself taught and approved for
His Prabhat Samgiita. Just like He has taught us the kaoshikii dance for
which He has not only taught us the theoretical side but practically He
taught us how to do it also. In similar fashion all the sadhanas that He
taught, He showed us how to practice. So not only theory but practice also.
This is Baba’s method.

For example when He taught Guru Puja, then He also told exactly how people
should sit, in which asana, how to position their hands, what mantra to
use, everything He taught.

MELODY AND LYRICS OF PRABHAT SAMGIITA APPROVED BY HIM

Similarly in 1982 when HE started teaching Prabhat Samgiita, Baba gave the
lyrics and its musical melody– everything He taught. And each and every
song was performed in His presence and got approved by Him- both the lyrics
and melody.

Here the critical point is that Baba’s Prabhat Samgiita is given in
different fashion. It is unlike the writing of other poets and musicians.
Because BABA Himself has given its tune / melody to go along with the
lyrics. And He has given the very strict guideline that His Prabhat
Samgiita songs should be performed only in that very fashion which He has
taught.

All this is not some oral description I am giving.

BABA’S DIVINE PROCLAMATION

Each and every Prabhat Samgiita cassette prior to 1990 and each and every
Prabhat Samgiita book carry this special instruction in the beginning. This
following instruction has been given in relation with PS and what way it
will be sung.

For example in my pre-1990 Prabhat Samgiita book in the preface it says,
“The author Himself has given the tunes, the songs must be sung to these
tunes”.

So this above Baba’s instruction is very clear. Here the singer does not
have any freedom of changing the tune and melody of Prabhat Samgiita. Those
who love Prabhat Samgiita and those who have love for Baba must have to
follow Baba’s strict guideline of singing of Prabhat Samgiita. Only in that
way will they be benefited*. Going off the track they will not get
benefited and possibility is there to get harmed.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA HAS GOTTEN NEGATIVELY PROJECTED

Unfortunately in our AMPS many things are not moving in the proper
direction. As in our individuals lives, spirituality is the most important
of the three stratas. Similarly in addition to the various problems in the
organisation on the physical and psychic planes, now also there is this
problem of Prabhat Samgiita. So I feel this is the most critical one.

Recently what I have seen, that some Margiis are going off the track in
their singing of Prabhat Samgiita. Because of pseudo-culture like disco
music, reggae, rock n’ roll, these things have polluted the atmosphere. So,
many simple innocent margiis are unaware that Prabhat Samgiita should not
be sung in those negative filmy style tunes.

But when we see critically at how all this is happening, then we will reach
to the conclusion that sister Jyotsna is moving around Berlin and NY
sectors with invitations in different units to perform and teach Prabhat
Samgiita.

Some of the Prabhat Samgiita cd’s prepared by her I have along with me.
After listening many times and comparing with Baba’s original songs and
melody, it is quite clear that the Prabhat Samgiita songs sung by Jyotsna,
the melody for those songs are not according to Baba’s direction.

It should then be understood that just like any song where the melody is
based on crude rhythm then it leads to degeneration and invites negative
microvita. It can happen even if the lyrics are proper and the melody is
crude. Because according to the rhythm and melody, the mind and inferences
get motivated. That is why if from some distance any person listens to the
melody of disco / reggae / rock ‘n roll / Huuuu Haaaaa Huuu Haaaa, then
crude vibrations generate in the mind. And then the mind will become a
fertile place of crude microvita. So one such example Baba is giving below.
He has given that if one sings ‘ra, ra, ra, ra, let us dance and go to
hell’, then it will lead the mind towards degeneration. Same way Jyotsna is
singing Prabhat Samgiita which is not based on the correct style which Baba
guided. Surely then the outcome will not be positive.

Please read below what happens after engaging oneself in singing crude
melodies.

Baba says, “If someone makes a sound like ‘ra, ra, ra — cha, cha, cha’ or
if someone sings, ‘Follow my song! Let us sing and dance our way to hell’,
these are sound inferences, but they carry a very crude idea.” (MVNS, p. 94)

NO ONE HAS THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE MELODY

The central idea is that when Baba has given the proper melody then nobody
has the right to ruin those things and change the melody. I think that
sister Jyotsna, maybe because of her innocence, she is not obeying those
things but negative microvita is not going to spare innocence.

Here I am not accusing any individual or party, I want to highlight the
facts and figures. And with this proof anybody can easily assess the
situation and see what way Baba wants and what way HIS Prabhat Samgiita got
tainted / diluted.

Just like Indian yogis since thousands of years ago they invented the
system of yoga. And now non-margiis took those things and painted them in
their own colour, in the colour of pseudo-culture. And now such distorted
yoga is getting popular in advanced countries. But this so-called yoga of
those advanced countries has nothing to do with the proper and true yoga.

BABA’S WARNING

So when in 1979 devotees were attending Baba’s General Darshan in Patna,
then one of the discourses which is probably printed in AV part 1 or 2, in
that very discourse Baba has warned everybody about the negative propaganda
of yoga.

“So now we see that yoga has been propagated in a very crude way. And true
yoga lost its charm in the eyes of those people– it remained as some
physical exercise, nothing do to with the unification of atma and Paramatama.”

In similar way, Baba warned us in relation to Prabhat Samgiita. That this
should be sung in proper style. Means in the way He taught. But some
superficial singers like Jyotsna are ruining the things. So it is my
request to all Margii brothers and sisters that please look into the
matter. Compare her songs with the original Prabhat Samgiita which you may
have from your collection of pre 1990 stage. And by comparing you will
reach the conclusion that her songs are distorted versions. So in the name
of teaching Prabhat Samgiita and doing pracar, what is actually going on is
misleading.

I do not have any malice against Jyotsna. But when the question of
ideological concern comes then it is everyone’s common concern not to allow
Baba’s things to go astray. And we all know that practicing a negative
teaching is more detrimental than not getting taught that idea at all.

STORY: NEGATIVE LEARNING IS MORE DETRIMENTAL THAN NOT LEARNING

To make this point clear here is one story. There were 2 students of music
who reached to one professional musician. And after getting interviewed by
the music teacher, one student was asked to pay 500 dollars per month and
and the other student was asked to pay 250 dollars per month.

Since they were friends, both students raised the question to the
teaching: ‘Sir for the same class why are there 2 different tuition fees?’.

Then the teacher replied that, ‘One student has some negative knowledge about
playing guitar. Because they learned those bad habits from one sloppy,
incompetent teacher’.

The teacher continued, ‘So first my duty is to give some more extra time to
that student and watch him practice. That is why he has to pay extra
tuition fees. Because I have to ensure that he undoes those negative
habits. And that is not an easy job. But when that student outgrows his
negative habits and false knowledge about guitar that he acquired in the
past then he will be at the normal rate’. The teacher further clarified
that the 250 extra dollars is for wiping away his negative memory about
those wrong teachings about guitar. And then when the memory will be clear
then he will learn in proper way at the normal tuition rate of 250 dollars’.

So this above story is not only related with musicians; but it can be with
anyone. Just like some nursery students when they start learning the
language if they had previously learned certain letters of the alphabet in
the wrong way, then they do not like to forget that and then it is very
difficult to teach them.

WHAT RESULTS FROM WRONG LEARNING

So not knowing Prabhat Samgiita is something which is not as bad as having
learning incorrectly. If one learns incorrectly then many negative things
can happen.

(1) They will sing in their regular misguided way and they will not be
benefited.

(2) They will teach others those negative teachings and by that way those
negative teachings will multiply. Just like how in India they think that
Lord Shiva is a hashish smoker, and this Indian negative teaching got
multiplied. This pracar went to one and all, around the globe. And now it
is not easy to wipe away.

I am hopeful that now entire Margii society all around the globe is more
and more alert to save Baba’s legacy. with this view I am putting forth
this letter for your consideration.

Namaskar,
Jagadiish

NOTE 1: MUST BE DONE ACCORDING TO SYSTEM

Here Baba is giving one very good guideline about the importance playing
the music according to the proper system. And that only in this way will
one be benefited.

Baba says, “The ra’gas and ra’giniis were created. There is no scope for
any deviation this way or that. On this basis Sada’Shiva developed the
science of musical notes, svara sha’stra or svarodaya, or shabda sha’stra.
Due to the strict rules as outlined in the svara sha’stra, there is not
room for any deviation at the time of singing. If any deviation is
attempted one will have to break the established rules…Indo-Aryan music
is based on a system, a rhythm; there is no room for any mistake, no scope
for deviation.” (APH, p. 359)

Thus the sanctity of Prabhat Samgiita must also be maintained.

NOTE 2: SISTER J’S MISGUIDED HANDLING OF PRABHAT SAMGIITA

In all of Jyotsna’s CD’s, her dealing and approach towards Prabhat Samgiita
is totally against Baba’s system. Means what she is doing is way off the
mark– negative.

For example on her CD titled, ‘Dancing Divinity, Jyotsna blatantly
overlooks and ruins the sanctity of Guru’s guidelines and compositions.

In particular just see Jyotsna’s misguided rendition of PS #138– A’mi
jedike ta’ka’i hera o ru’p keval. In her adulterated versions Jyotsna
breaks all of Baba’s rules by changing the melody, adding crazy sounds and
words, and so many things.

In that song (138) Jyotsna wrongly introduces her own made-up words that
have absolutely no sense at all.
For instance throughout the song Jyotsna crazily cries out:

Yaaaa-heeeeee, yaaaaa-heeeee, yaaaaaaa-heeeeeee…
Yaaaa-heeeeee, yaaaaa-heeeee, yaaaaaaa-heeeeeee…
Yaaaa-heeeeee, yaaaaa-heeeee, yaaaaaaa-heeeeeee etc

Jyotsna does this yelling of this crude sound in quick succession throughout
the song. So this newly-created tamasik sound by her was placed there and
sung in the Prabhat Samgiita in order to make it crude. This was her
intention– to make it crude like typical negative western pop tunes.

Indeed it is embarrassing to listen to Jyotsna cry out like this on her CD.
And it is a tragedy to Baba’s holy Prabhat Samgiita.

…But non only that on that same CD Jyotsna terribly ruins another Prabhat
Samgiita as well. Here I am talking about Prabhat Samgiita song #66, “Rum
jhum, rum jhum nu’pur ba’yaye…”

Jyotsna’s crude rendition is done using the tune of some hotel cabaret
dance music. That means instead of following Baba’s divine tune, Jyotsna
negatively inserted a degenerated melody line that is common used in
prostitution halls. This is the common fact. Newer people may not recognise
and think I am stretching it. But so many senior margiis are appalled by
Jyotsna’s negative dealing. Because it is so disgraceful she switched the
tune like that.

So every Prabhat Samgiita song which Jyotsna sang on that CD is infested
with her negative adaptation. And not only this CD but all her CD’s are
like that. Her CD titled– Crimson Blossom– is one raucous display of how
to ruin Baba’s Prabhat Samgiita.

To read about that visit:

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2004/09/painted-in-sensual-lesbian-colour.html

NOTE 3: THE FRAUDULENT FOURSOME

All told there is a crew of 4 core members involved in this negative
campaign. To make their money at any cost. Chiefly responsible are Inner
Song led by Kamala (formerly of NY now in SUVA) and Narada (Suva). Their
main relation with Ananda Marga is as a money-making venture. Both of a
long history in this and now it is going on full-fledge with the
profiteering done by Inner Song for their personal bank account. For that
reason they encourage and propagandize about Jyotsna’s so-called legendary
status in order that they can make money. And their partner in all of this
is Cirasmita (NY) as she runs Inner Song in that sector plus Cirasmita is
engaged at times in puffing up Jyotsna’s image and invites her to be that
main attraction at the Prabhat Samgiita retreat in NY. And in all of this
hype, Jyotsna plays the part “so well”. She walks around retreats as if she
is some Prabhat Samgiita goddess. She stands by the booth selling her CD
and autographs (signs) people’s copy as if she is an established star and
great singer when all along she is actually ruining Prabhat Samgiita. So
this is the unfortunate scene and the main culprits are the foursome of
Jyotsna, Cirasmita, Kamala & Narada.

For years and years it has been like this, if there has been some
improvement of late, please do share – that will be wonderful news.

Aside: You might be aware that Jyotsna’s personal preferences and dealing
are quite questionable and against Baba’s viewpoint.

NOTE 4: IMPORTANT QUOTATION BY REVERED BABA

Please read this following explanation by Baba as it relates to this whole
entire posting.

Baba says, “The world of music today is like a person without a proper guru
or proper training. People want to show they can play without having paid
their dues. They are selling themselves for gold without realizing that the
real value of music is being lost thereby. Gold is becoming even cheaper
than glass. Whenever a ra’gin’ii is a little difficult they only show that
they can play the notes without going deep into the music.” (SC-2 p. 129)

Note 5: HUMAN BABY IN MONKEY’S CARE

Just as when a monkey abducts a human baby and drags that infant throughout
the forest jumping from branch to branch. By that way the human baby gets
completely affected. In the same way Prabhat Samgiita has been grabbed up
by some greedy person who is hankering for money and fame.

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Advent of Mahasambhutis

Baba says, “Lord Krsna came about 3500 years ago, when the war of the
Mahabharata took place. People’s individual qualities then had not taken a
collective shape. People did not know the art of living collectively…they
fought among themselves because they had no collective sense. Lord Krsna
thought that if He combined all there would be collective spirit in the
true sense of the term. Then alone all human faculties would get expanded.
He tried to make people understand, but they did not understand, because
there was no collective spirit in them…to synthesize them all Lord Krsna
was born.”

“Lord Krsna wanted to bring about a social synthesis, the seed of which was
sown by Lord Shiva.” (Disc MHB, p.6-7)

Note: In the same way Baba advented to form one synthetic human society.
But unfortunately, groupist leader in H, B, & NIA are doing just the
opposite. They are engaged to balkanize and disintegrate it. But what Baba
has planned, i.e. to form one human society, that is going to happen.
Because it is His wish.

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