When We Should Compromise

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 06:08:27 +1000

Baba

This entire posting is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Posting: When We Should Compromise;
(2) Concluding Quote: Who Propagated This Defective Philosophy?;
(3) Prabhat Samgiita #1420;

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

== WHEN WE SHOULD COMPROMISE ==

Namaskar,
Here following are some very unique examples from Baba’s own life where He refused to compromise on points of ideology. We are to apply these same measures in our organizational / ideological life.

BABA’S EXAMPLE:

I WILL NOT FORGO PROUT

When Baba was in jail then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent a representative to convey the following message to Baba.

On behalf of Mrs. Gandhi, the messenger said, “The Government of India & Ananda Marga can peacefully coexist, so long as there is no Prout. If You drop Prout from Your agenda everything will be fine.”

This was the essence of the message from Mrs Gandhi’s camp: For Baba to forgo His Prout philosophy.

In reply, Revered Baba told, “My ideology is more important than my life. I prefer to remain in jail than compromise on My ideology.”

By Baba’s divine example, we are to understand that standing up for our ideological principles is the greatest endeavour in life. This is very evident by the fact that Baba refused to compromise by giving up His Prout philosophy.

Verily, in innumerable places and in countless ways, Baba guides us that we are never to sacrifice or compromise our Ananda Marga ideals.

Thus when certain Dadas have ruined margii rights, made a Fake Bhukti Pradhan manual, distorted Baba’s scripture, invented Fake Ananda Vaniis, created the dogma of mahaprayan, ruined the ACB system, and vicitimised and marginalised countless innocent margiis etc, then we must not compromise or make any deals with such persons. First those Wts must admit to their wrongdoing and sin, express repentance, and mend their ways.

Baba’s overarching directive is to hold firm to ideology – no matter what. We should follow His ideal.

BABA’S EXAMPLE:

I WILL NOT GIVE UP MY FAST

Another well-known incident occurred when Baba was in jail & undertaking His protest fast.

At that time, various political leaders of India came to Baba in a very respectful manner and pleaded with Him to stop His fast. Those political leaders expressed that (a) the long fast was having a very detrimental effect on His body, (b) it was difficult to maintain such a fast, and (c) that His life is very important. Those well-wishers reasoned and concluded that best will be for Baba to discontinue His fast. This was their well-intentioned plea.

But once again, on this very point Baba replied that His fast was for ideological reasons – not for the wellness of His physical existence. For that reason, He must continue the fast.

Baba’s response and action again shows that following His ideological principles is first and foremost in life. On no account should an Ananda Margii ever compromise on Ananda Marga teachings or philosophy.

Hence, when certain Dadas have indulged in Bangalisation, invented dogmatic tiirthas, used expulsion as a weapon, and attacked those who followed silent action etc, we must hold them accountable for contravening Baba’s guidelines. They must accept their misdeeds, beg apology, and correct their wrongdoing etc. There is no other way.

BABA’S EXAMPLE:

DO NOT COMPROMISE WITH THOSE WHO GO AGAINST ISTA

Here is yet another example for us all to consider.

In 1970, when the defectors like Madhavananda, Vishokananda, and Prakashananda, went against Ista – betrayed Guru, then some simple people, who had sentimental friendships with those defectors, wanted to keep everyone together. Those simple sadhakas requested Baba to allow those defectors to remain in the organisation even though they blatantly contravened the very foundational tenets of Ananda Marga. In their naïveté, those simple people wanted to overlook the ideological blunders of those defectors – and have everyone co-exist once again. This is what they asked from Baba.

However, we all know that Baba took a very firm stand – an ideological stand – on this issue, and the rest is history. Baba did not wish to send messengers to those defectors and compromise with their adharmic demands and console them. Instead, on their own accord, those defectors strayed far, far away and never returned. And our Ananda Marga rose to the height of glory. And those who were tricked by such defectors and joined them initially, then Baba openly welcomed them back. While those who deliberately joined those defectors had to face punishment before being allowed back into Ananda Marga.

Here then again, Baba demonstrates through His own Personal example that when it comes to ideology, there must not be any compromise. Rather one is to stand tall on all ideological matters.

Thus in the present day situation, how can we forgive those who have altered Baba’s teachings, and done so many heinous crimes which go against Ananda Marga ideology. How can we simply forgive and excuse such people. We cannot – not until they have purged themselves of such sin and wholly mended their ways.

In so many teachings Baba has guided us to never compromise on ideological matters – never.

“Fight for your Ideology. Be one with your Ideology. Live for your Ideology. Die for your Ideology.” (1)

“Where the question of benevolence and malevolence is concerned we will not deviate an inch from our ideology.” (2)

“Life represents Ideology. Life should be sacrificed for Ideology.” (3)

BABA’S DIVINE DISCOURSE:

DO NOT MADE A PACT WITH SINNERS

So by His own example and in His teachings, Baba guides us to always live by the high ideals of Ananda Marga – never compromise.

This following passage from Baba’s discourse leads in this same direction. This below paragraph has been paraphrased from AV-26 (H) pg 34. It is based on the original Hindi and if anyone has this book and can post the original Hindi section, then that will be very helpful.

Here then is the essence of Baba’s message from that portion of His discourse where Baba is pointedly explaining that there must not be any pact made with those who are opposed to our principles.

“Remember one can have a temporary cease-fire with the black forces, but there cannot be a pact…do you know what is cease-fire? For example, two battling parties may decide that there will not be any fighting at night, and that the fighting will resume in morning. So in a temporary cease-fire the fight has not been stopped permanently; it will continue after a short period of pause. So this is what is known as a temporary cease-fire. In contrast, what is a pact? When a pact is made then a compromise of values is done and each side accepts certain conditions and sacrifices their own ideological platform…Remember, at any cost there will never be a pact with the black forces, i.e. the negative forces. Only there can be a ceasefire from time to time. And that cease-fire will be done with the sole intention to increase your own strength. For example, suppose you are alone and the dark forces surrounding you are ten in number. Then for the time being one can make a cease fire with those black forces; but, then tomorrow you will have to collect 20 fighters to join your cause and then start your offensive against those black forces. That is the use of a temporary cease-fire. Virtuous people must remember, that one can never make a pact with the sinful forces.” (4)

Hence in clear-cut language in His above teaching, Baba directs us that we must never sacrifice our ideals by making a pact with sinful agents – those who go against the welfare of humanity. On this point, Baba maintains that we must live by and fight for our ideals, i.e. Ananda Marga ideology.

In the practical sphere, our Ananda Marga has never made a pact with or bowed down to communists, capitalists, or any type of crooked leadership etc. No matter what the circumstances, always we are to abide by our Ananda Marga ideals. That is Baba’s directive and that is what sincere margiis do.

DO NOT MAKE PACT WITH ANY GROUP

From time to time, a few persons cry out that we should sacrifice Ananda Marga values and ideological principles in order to “keep everyone together” – just like in a crowd where everyone is physically together but has their own separate agenda. That is to say, some confused persons sometimes beg that we should overlook ideological wrongdoings like scriptural distortions and BP rights, and come in the shelter of one particular group or bring all the groups under one roof. This is their unholy approach. Because they are demanding that we forgo our ideological principles for the sake of some type of group pact etc. Yet, Baba never wants us to do such mistakes: Under no conditions are we to compromise on the point ideology.

If really we are to make a pact with unideological group leaders, then Baba would have invited all kinds of communists, capitalists, and dogmatic religious fanatics to bring their dogma into Ananda Marga. But Baba did not do like this. Rather, it was demanded that such persons must first leave their dogma and then enter the house of Ananda Marga – not vice versa.

Because for Baba, ideology is supreme and He wants that we also follow this way of life: Never compromising on ideology.

That means not compromising with those who have ruined margii rights, invented the weapon of expulsion, victimised innocent margiis, and distorted Baba’s scripture. Until such factional heads change their ways, we cannot forgive such persons and forget their sinful deeds. That is Baba’s decree.

IF ANYONE COMPROMISES ON POINTS OF IDEOLOGY

THEY ARE PLAYING WITH FIRE

If any person does not understand the fact that ideology is everything in life, then such a person is really just a baby in Ananda Marga – regardless of their worldly age. If such persons want to make a pact with unideological people, then they themselves are playing with fire as they are going against Baba’s fundamental principle of no compromise on points of ideology. As soon as possible those persons should study Baba’s guidelines and do long sadhana. That is what they need. That is their medicine. Then they will be alright, by His grace.

TWO DISTINCT WARNINGS

#1: If anyone is supporting any group or faction then they themselves are going against Ananda Marga ideology because supporting groupism is against the principles of neo-humanism.

#2: During times of trial, it is very difficult to come onto the right path. Due to allegiance with friends and family or personal interest etc, people go astray. They fail to link up with ideology.

BABA’S TEACHINGS

Ista and Adarsha are the most important things in life. And that is what our svastika flag represents. And that is our victory in life – not the victory of dogma.

ALWAYS STICK TO IDEOLOGY, DO NOT BE SWAYED

“We should always respect our ideology if we are to become true human beings. The ideologist is a man who always acts according to his ideology. If by following the ideology, the older people become unhappy or condemn me, I will not care. If by following an ideology I die and die again, let it be. I will not care. I will stick to my ideology.” (5)

BE READY TO FACE ALL DIFFICULTIES FOR THE SAKE OF IDEOLOGY

“Let those well-versed in ethics criticize me or praise me, as they so desire; let Lakśmii, the goddess of wealth, either be gracious enough (because of my activities) to reside in my house, or, if she prefers, go elsewhere; let death visit me today or decades later. It makes little difference to me. Wise people will never withdraw from the path of ideology, the path which they accept as their ideal.” (6)

“What am I going to do regarding the mission of life? If logicians and philosophers condemn me, saying, “That is a very bad man,” let them say this. Or if, due to my movement towards my goal, a certain portion of society appreciates my action, let them appreciate it – it won’t affect me. I won’t be assailed by such appreciations. And if, due to my action, Lakśmii (Lakśmii is the mythological goddess of riches) comes and resides in my house, it is good. If Lakśmii says, “No, I will quit you forever, I won’t remain with you.” that is, you will have to suffer from poverty, let Lakśmii quit my house: And if, due to my course of action, due to my ideology, Pluto, that is, the god of death, comes and says, “I’ll take you,” let Pluto do it! I don’t care! Or if, due to my course of action, due to my ideology, I am forced to live here for an indefinite period, I am ready to live here. You know life becomes boring if one lives for a long period, but I am ready to undergo that boredom, that monotony, for the sake of my ideology.” (7)

BE DHIIRA – STICK TO IDEOLOGY

“The shástras say that a person must stick to his ideals irrespective of whether he receives praise or abuse, whether wealth comes or wealth goes, whether he lives a thousand years or suffers death the next moment. Such a person is called “dhiira”. My direction to you is to be Dhiira. You must stick to your ideals in spite to everything. In this lies your spiritual growth.” (8)

DO NOT BE SWAYED BY PRAISE OR ABUSE

“If I am too concerned with those who praise or censure me, I will not find time to do my real work. As I have come to this world only for a short period, my only concern should be to keep on doing the duty the Lord has assigned to me. And while doing this allotted duty, I should remember that I belong to Parama Puruśa. I have come from Him, and I will have to return to Him – and to do that, I must complete my allotted duty.” (9)

IT IS BETTER TO DIE UPHOLDING DHARMA

“Even if the practice of Bhágavata dharma brings pain and sorrow and the practice of paradharma (that is to say, the dharma of animals and plants) brings pleasure, humans will have to stick firmly to their svadharma, their mánava dharma. Humans should never allow themselves to descend to paradharma, the dharma of birds and beasts, of trees and plants. On no account should animal dharma be encouraged. The flag of mánava dharma must always be held high under all circumstances. This is exactly what Shrii Krśńa means when He says: Svadharme nidhanam’ shreyah paradharmo bhayávahah – “It would be better to die upholding human dharma, upholding the ideal of humanity; one should never allow oneself to fall back into a state of animality.” (10)

NEVER COMPROMISE WITH SIN OR VICE

“The person will welcome that death rather than compromise with sin and vice. Therefore keep in mind that those who are genuine devotees, sádhakas of high order, loved by Parama Puruśa and closely bound to Parama Puruśa in love and affection, will never compromise with sin and vice. They will cling to their ideal totally, throughout their lives.” (11)

HOLD THE FLAG OF IDEOLOGY UPRIGHT

“O’ human beings, be established in the radiance of divinity and the splendour of valour and chivalry, because yours is the path of revolution. Your path is not the path of extra caution and scheduled movement. You are the traveller of a rugged path. You are travellers of an impregnable path. You have to march ahead proudly with the flag of Marga upright. You have no time to stagger or to look behind.” (12)

SUMMARY STATEMENT

The overall guideline is that we are to hold firm to the ideological fundamental of Ananda Marga irrespective of any worldly situation. Whether we are praised, whether our friends try to lure us away, regardless of any circumstance we are to remain with ideology and never compromise. Thus in our organisational life we must take a firm stand against those who have undermined and contravened the ideological principles of Ananda Marga. We must not compromise with such Dadas etc in any way. Rather they must take responsibility for their wrongdoing, express repentance, and rectify themselves. There is no other option.

Namaskar,
Sastaunga Pranam to Baba,
Bhavanath

Note: MORE ABOUT MARGII RIGHTS

For a comprehensive listing of margii rights and common ideological points that have been compromised and violated in our Ananda Marga, please read this letter. (Note: After clicking sure to scroll down to the actual post)

REFERENCES
1. A’nanda Va’nii #14
2. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 14
3. A’nanda Va’nii #15
4. Paraphrased from AV-26, p.34, Hindi Edn
5. 23 November 1971 DMC, Purnea
6. NKS, Disc: 2
7. Ananda Vacanamrtam – part 12
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam – part 1
9. Subháśita Sam’graha Part 12
10. Discourses on Krsna & The Giita, “Better to Die . . .” – 2
11. Discourses on Krsna and the Giita, Svadharma and Paradharma – 3
12. SS-1

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Who Propagated This Defective Philosophy?

“At one time people were told that this world is for human enjoyment only, so the existence of all the plants, of all the birds and animals, in the world is intended merely to provide objects of enjoyment for human beings. Their hopes and aspirations, their intense desire to live, their pains and pleasures, their affectionate family or community lives are simply without value. However much a baby goat may wish to live, the main consideration is how much meat that kid carries on its frame. This defective philosophy has made people ruthlessly violent – even more dangerous than blood-thirsty tigers. Tigers kill only to fill their stomachs, to preserve their physical existence; whereas human beings kill animals mostly out of greed. Generally people have resorted to hypocrisy to camouflage this instinct of greed; they have killed animals on the pretext of pleasing the gods, while actually their main motive in doing so was to please their own tongues. These are all the inevitable results of such defective philosophies.” (Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 14)

If you do not know who propagates this defective philosophy then click here for the answer.
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PRABHAT SAMGIITA
~ PS #1420 ~

“A’mi toma’ya bha’lobesechi sare yete doba na’…” (PS 1420)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, You have most graciously come to me after such a long time; now I will not let You go away. I love You. O’ my Dearmost, I want to serve You; I want to fall in love with You – because falling in love with You means attaining salvation, getting emancipation, becoming one with the greater ‘I’, and remaining in eternal bliss. I do not want to fall in love with others because that means undergoing bondage, crudification, pain, misery, and, ultimately, degeneration. O’ my Lord, I want to fall in love with You.

O’ Divine Entity, You are the Polestar of my life – my life revolves around You. You are the sweetest of the sweet. You are the evening star of my life – the nucleus of my existence. O’ Prabhu, You are the morning star of the early dawn. O’ my Dearmost, because of You I am alive, and up to eternity I will remain under Your shelter, by Your grace. Thinking, contemplating, and ideating on You is the highest form of sadhana.

O’ Parama Purusa Baba, You are the best of everything. You are the smile of the flowers in the crimson dawn. In the mild nights of sarat [1], You are the shepha’lii [2] flower. In the sweet breeze of the shepha’lii flower, I remain awake thinking about You. O’ my Dearmost, O’ Baba, You are manaska’mana: You are the only One who can satisfy all the longing of my heart and mind.

Baba, You are my everything, I love You…

NOTES FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #1420:

[1] Sarat: This refers to the pre-winter Season. In tropical areas like India the pre-winter season is one of the best and most charming times of year. It is not hot and humid, nor is it chilly and cold. Rather in the pre-winter season, the climate is highly refreshing, very suitable, and, on the whole, quite delightful.

[2] Shepha’lii: The Night-flowering Jasmine (Nyctanthes arbortristis) is native to the Bengal region of India, where it is known as shepha’lii. The fragrant aroma of the night jasmine flower (shepha’lii) permeates each and every air molecule and makes the whole environment saturated and drenched it its sweetness.

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How Sadhakas Utilise Their Spiritual Potentiality

Baba

This entire posting is composed of 2 parts:
(1) Posting: How Sadhakas Utilise Their Spiritual Potentiality;
(2) Prabhat Samgiita #3323

== HOW SADHAKAS UTILISE THEIR SPIRITUAL POTENTIALITY ==

Namaskar,
Some get confused and think that they should attain occult powers so they can help others. Others contend that the gaining of occult powers is not good.

Some cite this sutra to support their claim that occult powers should be gotten.

5-14 Vyast’isamas’t’isha’riirama’nasa’dhya’tmikasambha’vana’ya’m’ caramo’ payogashca

Purport: “There should be maximum utilization of the physical, metaphysical, and spiritual potentialities of unit and collective bodies of human society.” (1)

They think think that Baba’s above Proutistic teaching is related with the attainment and use of occult powers.

Others stand by the point that occult powers are dangerous and lead to one’s downful.

“Occult powers are just like the dust on the roadside. The attraction for Parama Purus’a is the most valuable object– all else is only the dust of the earth.” (2)

So we should examine the situation and think, “How is it that sadhakas should utilise their spiritual potentiality?”

AS WE KNOW…

When a sadhaka does sadhana and strictly follows 16 Points then they naturally develop in all the ways – in all the spheres. This is the natural process – such that usually most good sadhakas are hardly even aware about their own growth.

It is similar to the case of the step-wise, progressive growth and development that we all experienced as infants and young children. Because all are born as small babies and gradually as we get older and older then huge developmental changes take place. But in one’s own day-to-day, regular existence, often people are not aware about or nor do they even recognise their own growth – how much they change day by day. Yet over a measurable span of time a major shift or growth takes place.

For example, after 15-20 years one infant becomes a strong youth. But that youth himself is unaware of his own drastic development. Just he feels it is his natural growth. But those who have not seen him since 10 years will think that a huge transformation has taken place.

In a similar way when a person practices sadhana sincerely with a pointed mind, and they are regular and strictly following all the do’s and don’ts, conduct rules, asanas, and are graced with devotion for Guru, then certainly the sadhaka’s whole personality gets changed.

NATURAL PROGRESS FOR ALL

Like this, various types of spiritual potentiality come to each and every sadhaka, although they are not aware. Nor do they desire those things because their mind is pointed to Parama Purusa and not towards those occult powers. So neither are they aware, nor is it their desire. It was not their intention to acquire those powers because they were just devotionally linked with Parama Purusa.

And this happens not just with one sadhaka, but with all sincere margiis and Wts – if one is sincere and strict in their spiritual routine and practices. Then surely such things develop by the grace of Parama Purusa.

Naturally then these spiritual strengths manifest in one’s regular conduct, in their daily way of dealing, speech, behaviors etc. In result, non-margii friends may complain about changes in your lifestyle and other acquaintances may leave your company. Verily, so many relationships become altered or broken. Every sincere sadhaka has numerous experiences how this has happened in their own life. And this is all due to the gradual and pointed development in spiritual life.

In that way spiritual strength manifests and projects in a very natural manner. And it happens to varying degrees. If one is very high and very pointed then it expresses more, and if less pointed then not as much. But certainly some change takes place accordingly in everyone.

SADHAKAS FEEL OTHERS’ SUFFERING

Because of this, margiis understand the pains and sufferings of others and with their full heart they are always busy in helping others.

“One should lighten one’s mind and become simple, soft, and kind-hearted; and by this way one can understand the tales of others suffering. In that condition only will you be able to serve the world. In that human mind where pain is hidden and where tears have accumulated, that mind you have to understand, realise, and feel. Then you will be able to remove their sorrow. To understand the feeling of the crying heart of suffering people, in sadhakas this type of supernatural power comes. This is called mahima.” (3)

A sadhaka’s spiritual potentialities get expressed in a very natural way. That is what Baba explains in His above teaching.

LOVE FOR ALL vs SELFISHNESS

All those saints in the past, because of their love for Parama Purusa, understood the feeling of suffering humanity and their love was not limited with a particular tribe or community or color or race.

So these extraordinary human qualities are just the expression of spiritual potentialities in the life of a sadhaka. Those devoid of true spiritual feeling do not have this. (See Footnote 1)

WHY THE NEED FOR SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

If a person is physically sick, then they are quite limited in what they can do. Their body is weak and they will not be able to perform their own designated duties, let alone help others.

Similarly, if a person is suffering psychically from depression, then here again that person will not be in position to help and serve others.

In both the physical and mental spheres, one must have energy and strength in order to reach their potential and serve society.

That is why in their selfish way, big corporations try to tend to the physical and mental well-being of their employees. Why? In order to maximise their productivity and output. When people are physically and psychically well they are more effective in their job. Then they can reach their potential.

Same is the case in the spiritual realm. If a person is spiritually developed then they can overcome all kinds of difficulties and be in position to help and guide others in all the realms of life. They understand other’s pain and can solve their problems. That is what is meant by gaining spiritual strength and utilising one’s spiritual potential.

Having spiritual potentialities does not mean doing all kinds of tricks like fake yogis and magicians who make gold watches appear and disappear etc. Those types of antics have nothing to do with fulfilling one’s spiritual potentiality.

SADHAKAS ARE ALWAYS READY TO SERVE USING THEIR SPIRITUAL POTENTIALITIES

“You will have to provide a soothing touch to the physical, physico-psychic and psycho-physical spheres of life, otherwise human existence will become meaningless…We will have to locate the source of these troubles…we will be removing the miseries…permanently remove those afflictions, which will rectify the sources of troubles in the proper way. (4)

In this above quote Baba says that when one has devotion then they can understand others’ pain and difficulties and thus they are able to help and serve them.

This is the proper explanation of Ananda Sutram, Sutra 5-14. Because it is about spiritual potentialities. And each and every margii has such feelings to varying degrees. Many margiis I know who earlier were meat-eaters, but after doing sadhana then what to say about not killing animals, their higher sense developed and they feel love for everyone. And day and night they are busy serving others. They do not feel that their own problem is any problem, rather just they are busy in relieving others’ suffering. This happens only due to sincerity & devotion – and with that the aforesaid spiritual potentialities came and changed their entire behavior.

Those who do not have such feeling in their dealing and behavior, it proves that they are away from such love of Parama Purusa. And instead they are engaged in self-propaganda, self-prestige, and other worldly longings etc.

In that unfortunate circumstance none can say that Ananda Marga sadhana has some demerits, rather such persons could not practice or follow Baba’s teaching.

SUTRA 5-14 ON PROUT IS ABOUT UTILISING SPIRITUAL POTENTIALITIES

Here Baba is directly explaining that Prout shows that those who are elevated spiritually will have to render service to the society by using their spiritual potentialities.

THOSE SPIRITUALLY STRONG WILL RENDER SPIRITUAL SERVICE FOR THE SOCIETY

“I have told in the Prout philosophy that those who have spiritual strength, from them we will take spiritual service for the society. Such sadhakas who sit in Himalayan caves and go on doing penance but do not teach anybody or guide anybody– that will not be approved. They will have to serve. They will have to do spiritual service. To them I do not say pull a rickshaw, but if they will not do spiritual service, and if they will just sit in Himalayan caves and not come in contact with the world, and instead they will tell that the world is illusion, yet at the same time they will go on eating fruits and roots and accept such service from other human beings of this world– these things will not continue any longer. That has been going on for a long time, but it will not continue any longer; that day has gone.” (5)

CONDUCT IS THE MAIN THING

By the conduct we can see one’s character because Baba says conduct is the main thing– it is the mirror of the mind. By that way we can see who is margii and who is non-margii etc. Because the point is that in our Marga we can see that those who are doing sadhana their conduct will be quite apparent. Whereas if someone’s conduct shows narrow-mindedness, groupism, and mean propensities then we have to think and understand that that person is not doing proper sadhana. So on the basis of one’s conduct we can see who is a senior margii and who is not.

Here it should be understood that seniority is not a matter of years but rather a matter of conduct. So seniority is dependent upon how far someone is pointed and committed to Ananda Marga ideology and to what degree that is reflected in their conduct. Hence conduct is the main distinguishing factor to understand who is who and what is what.

NATURALLY SPIRITUAL STRENGTHS DEVELOP

The delicate point is that if sadhakas are pointed towards the Goal (Ista) then naturally all these spiritual strengths come. And their whole conduct becomes better and better. But those who are asking for occult powers, they are getting that & then they misuse them and get degenerated. So such powers are not to be asked for in sadhana, rather the Goal is Parama Purusa. And on the way such things may come and the conduct will change and generosity will come and true sadvipra qualities will emerge and by that way such sadhakas will be an asset to the society. But no one should ask for getting occult power. That is wrong and it brings ruination.

MISUSE OF OCCULT POWERS BRINGS RUINATION

In Prabhat Samgiita #3333 Baba reveals what happens to those who long for occult powers:

“- Aes’t’ashvaryya tumi cha’r’a’… kare viveka-ha’ra’ -”

Purport: O’ Parama Purusa only You utilise the occult powers in proper way; whereas all those others who use them destroy their conscience. Means they start doing all kinds of negative things. In trying to show their occult powers they end up destroying and killing others and they themselves will be invite negative samskaras such that they will be degenerated into stone, wood or mud. So what to say about serving others, rather those lusting after occult powers destroy themselves.

Here following are some of Baba’s teachings.

USING SPIRITUAL POTENTIALITIES

RENDER STILL BETTER SERVICE TO HUMAN BEINGS

“You will surely attain spiritual progress. And because of your spiritual progress, you will come closer and closer to the Supreme Consciousness, you will come in contact with His psychic waves. And in that state you will be able to render still better service to human beings, animals and plants, by means of Neo-Humanism. May you all be blessed.” (6)

“Sádhaná or intuitional practice means an effort to break through the barrier of this smallness.” (7)

“The unit beings that have been in possession of the Cosmic Mind in part and that have been progressing within It, are also conscious of their smallness and this very sense of smallness is their individuality – unit-hood. Sádhaná or intuitional practice means an effort to break through the barrier of this smallness.” (8)

“How can one shake off the influence of static inertness? How can one get freedom from the bondages of names and forms? Just as the goldsmith uses a hammer and process of melting (in fire) to extract the real gold from the various ornaments, similarly a practical spiritual aspirant will have to break the bondages of names and forms in this expressed world through the cultivation of knowledge (which is mutative), devotion (which is sentient). By virtue of the heat of the fire of sádhaná and the strength derived from sustained intuitional practice, a sádhaka can overcome the static inertness.” (9)

NATURALLY SPIRITUAL STRENGTHS DEVELOP

BE FREE FROM PSYCHIC DISEASE AND ENCOURAGE NATURAL GROWTH

“Most psychic diseases, if not all, grow out of the defective control over the objectivated mind. If one is alert, any trouble can be avoided. Those who regularly practise Iishvara prańidhána or dhyána (meditation) can remain free from these diseases, as their minds will remain in a balanced state. One of the numerous benefits of sádhaná is that it keeps the mind free from psychic disease and encourages the natural growth of the mind. This is of tremendous importance since such problems may arise not only in individual life, but in collective life as well. Individual human beings as well as large communities often suffer from some sort of psychic disease. A subjugated people suffer from an inferiority complex towards the sovereign elite, the ruling class. When India was a dependent colony, many Indians used to describe the members of the ruling community as God’s children, obviously due to their deep-rooted inferiority complex. Most of them wondered: “Will India ever see the light of freedom? When will we ever win the struggle against the ruling class?” This shows that the entire indigenous community was a victim of inferiority complex, the removal of which would require a group of leaders endowed with enormous mental strength and noble character – a group of mighty personalities. India at that time was not fortunate enough to have such great people, and that is why the struggle for Indian freedom had to be prolonged. Otherwise, India could have gained freedom in a much shorter time.” (10)

EVERLASTING FREEDOM ACHIEVED ONLY BY SADHANA

“One thing which helps in getting remission, or nivrtti, is called artha [that which provides temporary liberation from mundane desires]. But artha is purely physical, so it can bring only physical and temporary remission. For everlasting freedom from duhkha, Paramártha [that which provides permanent liberation] is the only remedy. Paramártha does not bring only temporary remission, but everlasting freedom from duhkha. Atyantikii nivrtti can be obtained only by Paramártha which relieves one of all duhkha: physical, mental and spiritual. This Paramártha can only be obtained by sadhana, that is, spiritual practices. For maintaining peace psychic equilibrium is necessary, and for maintaining this equilibrium freedom from all duhkha forever is necessary. Freedom from duhkha or atyantikii nivrtti can be obtained only from Paramártha, and Paramártha can be achieved only by sadhana, or spiritual practices.” (11)

INTUITIONAL PRACTICE HELPS ONE TO OVERCOME

“The attraction towards earthly things born out of lust (káma) and attachment (moha) makes conjugal relations a necessity. Intuitional practice helps one to overcome this need. One becomes indifferent to it.” (12)

PERFORM SADHANA TO TEAR AWAY THE VEIL OF DARKNESS

“A sadhaka, in order to attain spiritual progress, require the help of Vidyámáyá, but at the culminating stage of sádhaná, Vidyámáya has no further value. A sádhaka performs sádhaná to tear away the veil of darkness of the variegated world created by Avidyámáyá and to strive to established himself on the path of pratisaincara.” (13)

TREMENDOUS FORCE ACQUIRED FROM SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

“The endeavour to remove inferiority complexes from the mind leads human beings slowly but surely to the Supreme Entity and establishes them in universal humanism. Hence it will not do for those who are determined to solve the problems of humanity to accept inferior ideals; along with this they must also acquire the strength they need to implement their ideals. The active endeavour to acquire this strength is called sádhaná – the sádhaná of the Supreme. It should be borne in mind that no theory will ever bring people salvation. In fact, it is the inner strength gained from spiritual practices which helps to expand the individual mind. The tremendous force acquired from spiritual practices helps to bridge the gap between the harsh realities of human existence and the supreme desideratum of human life. This is an eternal truth, applicable to all spheres of life – social, economic, psychic and spiritual.” (14)

BY SADHANA YOU ARE TO FREE YOURSELF FROM THIS IGNORANCE

““The jiiva and Shiva are the same” – this idea helps the jiiva to become one with Shiva. And “We are different; we are two entities” – this idea compels the jiiva to move round that Supreme Hub. What is your sádhaná? By sádhaná you are to free yourself from this ignorance, from the slumber of ignorance.” (15)

WITH THE HELP OF SADHANA THE REQUITAL OF SAMSKARAS CEASES

“Those who have tasted even a little of the flowing nectar of Brahma, know that they can never be impure. This constant thought of self-purity greatly helps to exhaust their samskáras or reactive momenta, as a result of which the samskáras held in the sthirabhúmi of their práńa are gradually destroyed. With the help of sádhaná or spiritual practice the spell of pleasurable and painful requitals ceases both internally and externally. Sádhakas call it the combustion of the seed of action in the fire of sádhaná.” (16)

BY SADHANA THE BRAIN AND INTELLECT INCREASES

“When a man, a devotee, a spiritual aspirant moves towards the Supreme Self, his body, that is his brain and intellect increases. And when he moves further, close to the Supreme Being, his spirit, that is his a’tman is also developed. His a’tman becomes more reflecting and more soothing to other existential vibrations because it comes closer to the emanating point of the Supreme Spirit.” (17)

GREATNESS OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICE

In the following quotes by Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji, He talks about the greatness of spiritual practice.

साधना से मन तो बढ़ता ही है जी | आत्मा की भी प्रगति होती है | आत्मा की प्रगति कैसे होती है, किस तरह की चीज़ है | वह तरक्की कैसी चीज़ है जी | हम कहते हैं कि इससे रुहानी तरक्की होती है | यह रुहानी तरक्की क्या है, जी ? मनुष्य जब साधना की बदौलत परमपुरुष की ओर बढ़ते हैं, तो बौद्धिक विकाश के साथ-साथ मानसिक विकाश भी होता है | तुम लोग देखोगे, दुनिया में बड़े-बड़े काम और बड़े-बड़े अविष्कार, मानव समाज के लिए बड़ी-बड़ी भावनाएँ, चिन्ताएँ, जिन लोगों ने की थी, सब साधक थे सब आध्यात्मिक ख्याल के मनुष्य थे, जड़ बुद्धि के, जड़ोपासक नहीं थे | यही है आध्यात्मिकता की सबसे बड़ी खूबी | आज तक दुनिया में जितने बड़े-बड़े इन्सान आये, और इनसानियत की ख़िदमत के लिए, उन लोगों ने जो कुछ भी किया है, सब काम तुम लोग देखोगे, वही लोग किये जिनके मन में परमपुरुष के लिए मुहब्बत है | जिनके दिल में परमपुरुष के लिए मुहब्बत नहीं है, दिल सूखा है, रेगिस्तान जैसा है, उनसे बड़ा-काम नहीं होता है |
(18)

“साधना से, मानसिक-आध्यात्मिक तरक्की तो होती ही है शारीरिक तरक्की भी होती है | वह तरक्की क्या है ? न, बुद्धि बढ़ जाती है | हाँ! यह बात तो ठीक है कि साधक लोग सीधे-साधे सरल होते हैं | मगर निर्बोध नहीं होते हैं | बुद्धि उनमें रहती है | और मैं भी बार-बार हज़ार बार कहता हूँ कि बुद्धिमान बनो | बुद्धू मत बनो; मगर सीधा-साधा बनो |” (19)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Suresh

Footnote 1: LIMITED BY NARROW-MINDEDNESS

When one is an advance sadhaka and ensconced in the feeling of neo-humanism then they can serve the entire humanity – otherwise not. Then only will one have true love for all.

So here we are not talking about the expression of superficial love which is limited and narrow: Such as when one is loving their own children but hating other children; or when one is dying for one’s own race, country, or community but exploiting other countries etc; or when one is eulogizing their own superiority and belittling others’ good things.

This we see and verily there are many so-called good people in the society who have done many things for their personal family, caste, color or religion. And there are various so-called monks who have completely dedicated themselves to a particular race and encouraged hatred with other races. They don’t hesitate even to engage in mass murder. The religious history is like that.

No doubt in their own particular, narrow community they may be treated as something great, but in truth they are low because they do not have universal feeling. Their “love” is based on selfishness. They did such service works just for the spreading of their own religion and for their own view or narrow cause, not out of any greater feeling of universal compassion.

SINCERITY IN SADHANA BRINGS EXPANSION

The whole point is that when true sadhana is there, then the mind will expand and spiritual strength will develop and those sadhakas will have love for everyone. And they will be able to understand others’ pain.

Otherwise by doing some avidya Tantra practices, then that avidya tantric gets some type of bogus powers that bring their degeneration.

REFERENCES1. Ananda Sutram, p.49
2. Subhasita Samgraha-18, p.46
3. Subhasita Samgraha – 18, Hindi
4.NHNS-2, p. 36
5. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 4, Hindi
6. Neo-Humanism Nutshell-2
7. Subhasita Samgraha – 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 4
8. Subhasita Samgraha – 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 4
9. AMIWL-7, Form and Formless
10. AFPS-7, The Faculty of Knowledge – 3
11. AFPS-7, Social Psychology
12. Elementary Philosophy, Why Are People Afraid of Intuitional Practice?
13. APH-4, The Influence of Máyá on the Human Mind
14. HS-1, Social Justice
15. SS-24, The Noumenal Progenitor
16. AMIWL-5, The Chariot and the Charioteer
17. Ananda Nagar, Morning Darshan, 12/30/80
18. Ananda Nagar, Morning Darshan, 12/30/80
19. Ananda Vacanamrtam, Part 21 Hindi Edition, Importance of Sa’dhana’ and its Goal (प्रातःकालीन जनरल दर्शन, 30 दिसम्बर 1980, आनन्दनगर)

******** Prabhat Samgiita #3323
“Ga’ner ma’la’ toma’r tare genthe rekhechi a’j bhore…” (PS #3323)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, since the early dawn, I have been preparing this garland of songs for You. O’ my Lord, please be gracious by coming. With heart-felt love I want to garland You. Those flowers which are not available in the garden have bloomed in the deep inner core of my heart. With the flow of Your sweet divine play, with the resonance of the string of my heart, at the sweet abode, I am waiting for You, my dearest Baba. Please grace me by coming…

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Gandhi, Bin Laden, Prout, & Ananda Marga

Baba

This entire posting is composed of 2 parts:
(1) Posting: Gandhi, Bin Laden, Prout, & Ananda Marga;
(2) Prabhat Samgiita #3624.

Baba

== GANDHI, BIN LADEN, PROUT & ANANDA MARGA ==

Namaskar,
What do Gandhism, pirate ships and Bin Laden have in common? How does Prout fit into the equation? Baba’s teachings neatly answers these questions and more.

THREE DEFECTIVE METHODS

In His teachings from Social Justice in Human Society part 1, Baba explains that whenever any society is exploited by vested interests like capitalists then in response the common people adopt one of three main avenues:
1. Appealing to human sentiment like Gandhism;
2. Applying brute force like communism;
3. Stealing and pillaging from the rich like Robin Hoods.

But none of the aforementioned avenues work; none of them are able to prevail against the capitalists.

#1 GANDHISM

Those appealing to Gandhism do not get success because those greedy capitalists are notoriously callous and remain unmoved by those humanistic appeals.

For instance:
(a) When those adherents of Gandhism plead, “Do not collect huge wealth which you cannot use”, then those ruling capitalists simply pay a deaf ear.
(b) Whose those Gandhi enthusiasts proclaim, “Share your wealth and feed the poor”, then those top capitalists merely look the other way.
(c) When those proponents of Gandhism say, “Build housing for the homeless”, then big corporate executives nod their head and then continue counting their net worth.
(d) When the followers of Gandhi demand, “After all are cared for then and only then can you think about your personal luxuries”, then the leading capitalists remain unmoved and continue to hoard huge wealth and extravagant personal amenities.

In short, capitalists simply ignore the humanistic appeals made by Gandhian activists. Such vaeshyas do not mend their ways.

Prout philosophy states, “No matter how much importance was given to the benevolence of the human mind by the Gandhian and Bhudan movements, or how saintly their propounders may have been, selfish and mean-minded people [capitalists] will never accept their principles.” (1)

The Gandhian theory can only be effective in some far-off dreamland, not in the hard realities of the world. Gandhism died while Gandhi was still alive; now only hypocrisy remains.

“The philosophy of Gandhi died before India got independence – it died long before Gandhi died.” (2)

Thus we see that the wealth disparity is only growing.

Poverty and slums are spreading fast across this earth as capitalists exponentially grow their wealth. There are more billionaires now than ever before, yet side by side large populations of people are homeless or living in the slums and shanty towns.

The slums of Rio de Janeiro, Hong Kong, Manila, Johannesburg, Mumbai, Buenos Aires, and Cairo are filled with hoards of people lacking the basic necessities like running water, toilets, sewage lines, and electricity yet in those very same cities a select slice of the population is living like kings and queens in ritzy apartments with grand luxuries. But it is not even countries like Brazil, China, Philippines, South Africa, India, Argentina & Egypt that suffer from this vast disparity of wealth.

The homeless problem throughout the US is notorious and growing phenomenon: “More than 630,000 Americans, equivalent to a city the size of Boston, are homeless, according the latest national estimate.” (13 April 2013)

Plus the homeless population is burgeoning throughout western Europe and especially in Paris.

Thus in places where capitalism is thriving (China, India etc) as well as in places where capitalism has long been established (USA & Europe), there are serious issues with the disparity of wealth. And in all such areas Gandhian appeals do not even begin to address the problems. Rather, capitalists blatantly disregard their appeals. Recently, billionaires in the US led by Warren Buffet also made appeals for other billionaires to donate money after they die, but but those appeals have mostly “fallen on deaf ears.”

So the ways of Gandhism do not work. The capitalists never give in to such demands.

#2 COMMUNISM

Those resorting to the brute force of communism do not get success with those capitalists either because they are unable to root out the seed of capitalism – they are unable to goad the mind in a proper moral or spiritual manner. Theirs is also a materialistic approach and the result is either the greed of individual or state capitalism.

Prout philosophy states, “Those who aspire to establish communistic systems either through legal methods or at bayonet point without changing the hearts of the people, without implementing development programmes and without introducing moral and ideological education to reform people’s bad habits, are also bound to fail.” (3)

The communist leaders themselves are very wealthy. Actually there is not much difference – from an economic perspective – between communism and capitalism.

Prout philosophy states, “Capitalism and communism are fruits of the same variety.” (4)

Communism is merely state capitalism where the government hoards all the money & the people are very poor; and capitalism means private ownership that creates a huge disparity of wealth between the economically elite and the common people. Thus, both harbor the safe defective mind-set: I.e. materialism.

Nowadays, we see that communism has basically failed. So the former communist nations are are aggressively pursuing capitalism. Some of the top capitalist countries are India, China, and Russia. In such places there is no safety net. There are no governmental programs to help the poor. Those without jobs, food, housing and medical care are basically left to struggle on their own or die. Yet in those same places the number of billionaires is increasing everyday.

In places like the US and Europe there is a bit of a safety net. The laborers fight capitalists, and, in turn, there are governmental services and subsidies for the poor etc. But in China and India where the common people have no such unity or power, capitalism is swallowing all.

Even then, it had to be admitted that the mere pittance given to the poor in the US is not enough to right the wrongs or quell the situation. So that also is not the answer. This just leads to a society of beggars where the poor have barely enough to survive and the rich continue to hoard huge wealth without restrictions. This leads to a static society based on indolence and inertness. What is needed is the development of cooperatives where the wealth is rationally distributed among all members, but this communism fails to do.

Here below is the response to the US and other countries that set-up social programs offer small monies to the poor, thus ensuring they remain impoverished.

“It is true that in Great Britain some of the minimum requirements of life are being provided to the people, but how great the difference is between rich and poor! Clearly their social system is capitalistic. The exploited and disgruntled people are given a small amount of sympathy to appease them. They are given a small taste of the dainties and delicacies, but their stomachs are never full.” (5)

So the safety-net set-up by capitalistic nations does not solve the problem. And with regards to communism, we can conclude that communism failed to change the psychic pablum of the people and leaders. Instead of fighting or correcting capitalism, they themselves became capitalists.

#3 ROBIN HOODS

This bring us to the third and final defective methodology outlined in this letter: Robin Hoods. For those those not aware – in a phrase – Robin Hood is one who loots from the rich and gives to the poor.

Prout philosophy states, “Those that used to think it pious to loot the rich and distribute the spoils among the poor. The Robin Hoods of that era thought that their methods alone could do away with the social disparity.” (6)

Such Robin Hoods think that by looting and pillaging they can bring social equality.

Prout philosophy states, “We have seen the advent of such Robin Hoods more or less in every country of the world. But this does not lead to the solution of the problem…Capitalism cannot be destroyed merely by pillaging the capitalists, for robbery and plunder may deflate the bloated capital of the capitalists, but it cannot kill the potential of the seed of capitalism.” (7)

So these Robin Hoods too fall short of the mark. Capitalists are not swayed or changed by such looting. Rather such capitalists come up with greater ways of protecting their wealth – i.e. increased security.

Some examples of Robin Hoods that we’ve seen in the recent and distant past include:

(A) Inner city riots such as the outbreak in LA in 1992 where the poorer blacks scorched, burned and looted the city in the wake of the Rodney King decision. In that case the judge exonerated the white policeman for beating a black man, Rodney King. In turn, the people destroyed the city. Yet still capitalism thrives in LA.

(B) In centuries past and even as recent as this year, pirate ships around the world would loot passing vessels, especially the boats of the ultra wealthy.

(C) The street warfare of Paris in 2010 featured youths looting and destroying the property of the establishment. The violent youth uprising in London in 2012 led to the destruction of so much public and private property.

(D) In the late 1880’s in the US, horsemen would derail and loot luxury trains as they crossed the vast open spaces of the western US.

(D) And if you investigate, you will come across numerous examples of looters around the world.

With their subterfuge ways such Robin Hoods try hard to knock off the capitalists – as some communists also attempted – but in the end they are met with defeat – even death.

Prout philosophy states, “Violence only invites violence. So these blood sucking [capitalist] cannibals take recourse to yet bigger conspiracy in time to come and the half-witted robbers ultimately meet their destruction at the hands of such capitalists.” (HS-1)

Here again Baba reveals how such Robin Hoods get beat by the ruling capitalists.

Prout philosophy states, “The amount of punishment meted out to the [capitalist] bloodsuckers by the robbers falls far short of the mark when compared to what they themselves [the looters] got at the hands of these [capitalist] blood-suckers.” (8)

Thus in all such cases, the looters invariably meet their demise at the hands of such capitalists.

#3 ROBIN HOODS (Cont):

ENTER BIN LADEN

Now we come to the point of Bin Laden.

Although, the late Bin Laden and his al-Qaeda cells are commonly thought of as terrorists that want to destroy everything, but we have to think in this way.

al-Qaeda wants to attack the nucleus of the capitalist stronghold and destroy them in order to retrieve the wealth and re-distribute it amongst all Muslims. That is their philosophy.

They see that the Middle East gains tremendous petroleum profits and the the kings of those Arab nations maintain close ties with the US. In return the US gives those Arab royal families power, prestige, respect, as well as weapons to suppress the public.

Those close to the royal families are extremely rich while the common people and youths in those Arab nations are very poor – in spite of the huge petroleum wealth. Such terrorists like Bin Laden want to capture the power by killing the enemies (i.e. capitalists), introducing Muslim social law, and redistributing the wealth among all. This is their endeavour.

As a whole then, as per Prout’s definition, they are also a type of Robin Hood. Such Robin Hoods try to destroy capitalists. And in this particular case those capitalists are both (a) the Arab royal families and (b) the US leaders and entrepreneurs. Indeed the Arab royalty controls huge wealth and that contravenes Islamic law which states that the wealthy are wretched.

Extremist groups like al-Qaeda aim to use violence and force to destroy the capitalists and capture their wealth, and the nredistribute those riches among common Muslims.

How far al-Qaeda will get success is yet to be seen, but that is their approach. However, as Prout philosophy points out, ultimately the firepower of those capitalist forces is more than al-Qaeda can handle.

Prout philosophy states, “Violence only invites violence. So these blood sucking [capitalist] cannibals take recourse to yet bigger conspiracy in time to come and the half-witted robbers ultimately meet their destruction at the hands of such capitalists.” (9)

Thus, according to the teachings of Prout, such terrorist cells meet their defeat at the hands of those capitalists, just as happens with all the other kinds of Robin Hoods. And indeed, in the past few years we have all witnessed the killing of so many top al-Qaeda leaders, including assassination of Bin Laden. Plus, just yesterday the #2 al-Qaeda commander in Pakistan was killed by a US drone strike.

So we can see that this Robin Hood technique also fails to end capitalist exploitation.

THE ANSWER IS PROUT

When Gandhism, communism, and the ways of those Robin Hoods all fail, then what is the proper approach to root out capitalism.

Prout philosophy states, “Those who lack a constructive ideology will never be capable of destroying capitalism, even if they speak sweet words, use threats, or create circumstantial pressure.” (10)

The only way to win the war against capitalists is to educate the common people about the ills of capitalist economic exploitation. This brings a collective rise in consciousness where people stand up to such capitalist exploiters. Thus we see the rise of vikśubdha shúdras, or the awakened masses, who are ready to bring revolution forward.

In this case the masses are fortified with the teachings of Prout: They understand they are being exploited and have a rational approach for moving ahead.

In Prout our aim is to bring about the all-round welfare of humanity where through circumstantial pressure people adopt the path of psychic expansion and spirituality. Then all their energy will not be spent on accumulating more and more physical wealth.

Prout philosophy states, “Our approach should be to adopt a constructive ideal, and we should wage a ceaseless and pactless struggle against all anti-human and antisocial factors. We are to fight capitalism and not the capitalists. We are to wipe out this ism from human society because this ism is paralysing humanity. The capitalists are suffering from a sort of mental ailment, and it is our foremost duty to radically cure them by diverting their physical thirst towards psychic and spiritual pursuits.” (11)

One of the key operative lines in the above teaching is: “fight capitalism and not the capitalists.”

Thus the Proutistic method is to combat the diseased mentality of capitalism and not engage in a war with capitalists. Rather those capitalists are to be educated about the ills of capitalism. They are to be taught that the human mind has infinite desires and that finite material wealth can never satisfy human longing. Side by side, while this education is going on, critical pressure and stipulations need to be implemented that keep people from hoarding wealth; rather wealth is to be rationally distributed.

So the Proutistic method aims to defeat the “ism” of capitalism and not the capitalists per se. That is the road to victory.

But this fact is lost upon Gandhism, communism, and Robin Hoods. The proponents of Gandhism simply make gentle appeals to capitalists without addressing the central problem of capitalism; the communists themselves adopt a materialistic, hoarding psychology similar to capitalism; and the Robin Hoods engage in warfare against the capitalists, but not capitalism. And in this fight they will lose as capitalists invest more and more funds into creating weapons for defeating such Robin Hoods. At present, capitalists hire soldiers who sit in the safety of isolated rooms and carry out drone strikes around the globe that systematically destroy those Robin Hoods. That is how the #2 commander of al-Qaeda in Pakistan was eliminated yesterday – and verily such attacks are going on always.

So all three – Gandhism, communism, and Robin Hoods – fail to rise to the challenge. Their defective approaches fail to derail the train of capitalism.

Thus, only Proutistic teachings are the way for eliminating capitalism and bringing forth a new human society. And this is done by rationally monitoring the accumulation of wealth and forcibly goading the minds of those capitalists towards the psychic and spiritual realms.

MORE WHY HUMAN APPEALS DO NOT WORK

Here below Prout philosophy explains very clearly and in more detail why those adopting Gandhian measures can never gain success in fighting the capitalists.

“Nothing would be better, if it were possible, than the eradication of capitalism by friendly persuasion and humanistic appeals. In that case the peace of the greater human family would not be much disturbed. But can it be guaranteed that everyone will respond to this approach? Some people may say that a day will come when, as a result of repeatedly listening to such appeals and gradually imbibing them over a long time, as well as through proper mental and spiritual education, good sense will prevail among the exploiters. This argument is very pleasant to hear. Such attempts are not reprehensible. But is it practicable to wait indefinitely for good sense to prevail among the exploiters? By then the exploited mass will have given up the ghost! Though the humanistic approach works in some cases, in most instances it does not produce any result; and even where it does work, it takes a very long time. So, wherever necessary, capitalism must be forced to abandon its ferocious hunger by taking strong measures.” (12)

ONLY PROUT IS THE SOLUTION

Prout philosophy states, “Both capitalism and communism have failed to provide the proper ideological inspiration and desideratum to human beings. In the interests of the welfare of humanity, these systems should be replaced. PROUT is against the exploitation by capitalism and the false dogma of communism as both are detrimental to the all-round progress of human beings.” (13)

Prout philosophy states, “PROUT is the panacea for the integrated progress of human society. It aims to bring about equilibrium and equipoise in all aspects of socio-economic life through totally restructuring economics. Without PROUT, socio-economic emancipation will remain a utopian dream. Only PROUT can save the world.” (14)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Candra Shekhar

REFERENCES:
1. Human Society – 1
2. Proutist Economics
3. Human Society – 1
4. Prout Nutshell-16, Decentralized Economy – 2
5. Human Society, The Vipra Age
6. HS-1, ’87 Edn, p.45
7. HS-1
8. HS-1, p. 45
9. HS-1
10. Problems of the Day, Point #3
11. Discourses on Prout
12. Problems of the Day, Point #2
13. Prout Nutshell – 15, The Existential Value of Ideology
14. AFPS-9, Economic Dynamics

“Toma’ri deoya’ pra’n’e, toma’ri deoya’ mane…” (PS 3624)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, You are the Giver of Life. This very existence of mine has been bestowed upon me by You. This very mind of mine has been given to me by You. Now by Your grace, my whole mind and heart, which have been given to me by You, are focused solely on Your meditation – ideating on You. O’ my Lord, You are my Goal and my sadhana revolves around You. I am thinking only about You. By Your grace I understand that everything belongs to You. Except You, nothing exists. You are everything.

O’ Supreme Entity, I love You so much; I am crying for You; I have so much longing for You. I want that You should come close to me – in my sadhana, in my dhyana. Besides You there is no one who is mine. I do not have anyone. But You are not coming close. Why do You remain far away, O’ Heartless One. Why do You remain forgetful of me. Why are You not coming near and instead going to some far distant place. O’ Parama Purusa, please come close; those things which I have kept in the casket of the inner core of my heart I want to whisper in Your ear. And among them, one of them is the intense desire to get You. I have so many intimate things to tell You. I have so many thoughts to share with You. My only request is that I should get You. Please be gracious.

O’ Parama Purusa Baba, due to my crude mind, for ages and ages I remained oblivious about You. I was not keeping You in my mind. Baba, I do not know how long it has been that I have forgotten You. During that time, I just danced in the rhythm of this crude material world. I was just infatuated, intoxicated, and engrossed with the mundane allurements of the relative sphere. O’ my Dearmost, today You have graced me and made me understand that I am only Yours. By Your infinite compassion, all my thoughts, plans, programs, aspirations, sorrows, happiness, desires – everything revolves only around You. Baba, You are my Polestar; You are my everything, I surrender at Your lotus feet…

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Re: How Shudras Are Brainwashed #3

== RE: HOW SHUDRAS ARE BRAINWASHED ==

~ Part 3 ~

Namaskar,

“During the holidays and weekends, companies organise various types of “fun” gatherings like picnics and seminars etc whereby the employees pass even their leisure time under the “protective care” of the company. They even take family vacations with their company. The whole point being that employees are led to believe that the company is actually their family. Once this idea gets set in the mind, those employees will walk to the ends of the earth to get the job done for their cherished company.”

Lately others have brought the point how big capitalists cast their spell on many of their employees. Certainly there are a growing number of citizens whose eyes are opened wide to capitalist exploitation. Yet, at the same time, those capitalists continue to control and steamroll large sections of the workforce. Their special tactic is to brainwash employees into being loyal to the company – when in reality the “company” is the huge profit-making by a few vaeshyans. All others suffer at the hands of their ruthless exploitation.

In response our approach is two fold. First, create more vikśubdha shúdras, i.e. conscious employees who possess the requisite awareness and fighting spirit to stand up to capitalist exploitation. Second, introduce and implement the workings of Prout’s cooperative system. By this dual approach, we can handily overcome the current vaeshyan rule.

COOPERATIVES ARE A KEY ASSET

Once there is a critical mass of vikśubdha shúdras wherein employees and citizens are critically aware of the capitalist exploitative machinery, the Proutistic system of cooperatives is the only way to organise society so it can permanently slip away from the grips of present day blood sucking capitalists.

Prout says, “Cooperatives, run by moralists, are the only safeguard against capitalistic exploitation.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 13, p.8)

Next we learn more about important aspects & vital components of the cooperative system.

Prout says, “The success of cooperative enterprises depends on three factors: morality, strong administration and the whole-hearted acceptance of the cooperative system by the people.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 13, p.8)

So the Proutist system of cooperatives is the main way to re-build the society in the socio-economic sphere. To achieve this, there must be a widespread movement amongst people to seek out a solution to the vaeshyan rule. Other key factors include an organized approach and strict moralists.

HOW COOPERATIVES OPERATE

“in the cooperative model, the fair-minded earnings of the collective are rationally divided between all participants.

Prout theory states, “The total profit of such co-operatives should be distributed amongst the workers and members of the co-operative according to their individual capital investment in the cooperative and to the service they render to the production and management of the co-operative.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14, p.46)

Thus, as Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar describes above, in the cooperative system the profits are shared based on the merit system – but all are guaranteed enough funds for the necessities of life. In that way, all members of the cooperative earn a fair portion based on their investment and work ethic. This is one of the revolutionary qualities of the cooperative model.”

The Proutistic model of the cooperative system is quite grand and dynamic. It is a win-win situation. All involved in the cooperative benefit greatly according to the degree of their activity and investment.

Plus there will be cooperatives in all aspects of socio-economic life: Farmers cooperatives, artist cooperatives, banking cooperatives etc. Here below Shrii Prabhat Ranajan Sarkar guides us about how the farming / agricultural cooperative will work:

“Cooperative managers should be elected from among those who have shares in the cooperative. Members of agricultural cooperatives will get dividends in two ways – according to the amount of land they donated to the cooperative, and according to the amount of their productive manual or intellectual labour. To pay this dividend, initially the total produce should be divided on a fifty-fifty basis – fifty percent should be disbursed as wages and fifty percent should be paid to the shareholders in proportion to the land they donated. Local people should get first preference in participating in cooperative enterprises.” (A Few Problems Solved – 9, Some Specialities of Prout’s Economic System)

Similarly, the profits and gains of every cooperative will be rationally and justly shared with all members, according to their level of involvement etc.

NOW VAESHYAN ERA IN FULL SWING:

MANY ARE GETTING EXPLOITED

Currently, however, the vaeshyan era is running at high speed – and that spells disaster for employees.

Here it should be known that employee means all levels of employees from common laborers to high level managers. Some may be thinking that employee only refers to those low paying jobs. But that is not the case. Because in the height of the vaeshyan rule all get exploited – all become shudras.

Prout theory states, “Consciousness should be developed among shúdras in order to protect them from the inhuman greed of the vaeshyas. All non-vaeshyas slip into shúdra-hood on the eve of a shúdra revolution.” (Humans Society – 2, The Kśatriya Age)

The point being that even many fancy white-collar, higher level employees are getting viscously exploited and brainwashed in this current capitalist structure. Because these so-called well-paid employees work day and night to please their executives and in return are left with nothing left in their life but their job, and the mirage that they are great. When in fact they are mere lackeys for their higher ups – carrying cell phones 24 hrs per day and never getting one ounce of time to even consider and reflect upon their own life. But even then they continue on in their toil as they live out their delusion. Certainly not all employees fall in this category, as some are alert to the tendencies and tactics of capitalists. However, a large swath of the labour force are pinned down in this way.

So whether hourly wage earning employees or big-time managers, all are just pawns in the midst of capitalist exploitation. Because those cunning capitalists have convinced everyone to join their team by selling their soul. However, with every passing day, there is a growing rise of vikśubdha shúdras. As this number increases and we spread the name and ideals of Prout, the faster capitalism will meet its end.

THE FALSE FAMILY FEELING STRATEGY

The common theme these days is for companies to not be a mere company but rather to be “a family”. In this way they project themselves – such as the Walmart family, the Microsoft family, the Exxon-Mobil family, the Nike family etc. By this way those top CEO’s suck more of the blood of their employees.

And they get success. One reason being that in our western capitalistic countries the general populace does not have big, extended families. Nor do they maintain a strong connection with their unit family. Devoid of that, the company is able to step-in and brainwash the employees to think that the company is really their main family, and that the employees should sacrifice for the company and think first about the company’s well-being. Like this those company executives train and mold the minds of their employees in order to set the stage for massive, uncontrolled exploitation.

NOT EASY TO AWAKEN THOSE EMPLOYEES

Indeed those manipulative vaeshyans have done such a masterful job of brainwashing and winning over their employees that if anyone tries to awaken those exploited employees then those employees become angry and lash out. In roaring fashion, they come to the defense of their company and become hostile toward any who approach.

So those employees do not like to hear any talk about brainwashing or psychic exploitation. Instead they blame that whistle-blower for being a trouble maker, jealous of their job, etc etc.

Thus when dealing with these exploited and brainwashed employees one must behave in a very delicate and psychological way. It is just like dealing with a very sick person who is not in proper health due to some disease. The mental condition of those brainwashed employees is no different from those sickly people.

This is the state of affairs nowadays.

Ananda Margiis are aware how this is all going on, and in society there is a growing number of vikśubdha shúdras who are keen to overturn capitalist exploitation. They may not know how or what to do, but they see the capitalists for who they are.

So our duty is to awaken more and more the extreme exploitation that is going on. Everyone must be made aware and society must advance into the next era.

THE SUFFOCATING GRIP OF CAPITALISTS

Under the vaeshyan rule, the entire society falls into the grips of capitalist exploitation. All levels and grades of employees get exploited from upper-level management all the way on down to the basic laborers. That is what we see going on today.

Prout philosophy says, “Today the whole human society is subjected to ruthless exploitation by capitalists. Capitalist exploitation has brought the very existence of humanity to the brink of extreme catastrophe by spreading its exploitative tentacles into every aspect of human life.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 13)

ABOUT THEIR BRAINWASHING MANEUVER

Next we see how through their brainwashing maneuvers capitalists have gained control of the society.

“Rapacious Vaeshyas or capitalists are taking advantage of this intellectual inertness [i.e. brainwashing] and have spread a subtle web of exploitation into every corner of society, enabling them to suck the vitality out of the collective body. Through this process the Vaeshyas are insidiously perpetuating their reign of exploitation.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 13, ‘Capitalism Three Spheres’)

WHO IS SHUDRA

Throughout His Proutistic teachings, Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar has discussed the mind-set of those who get exploited by capitalist in the height of the vaeshayan era. Those who give way to this mentality are verily shudras. Unfortunately, now in the early part of this 21st century, many fall in this category.

“Shúdras live only for physical enjoyment. They neither bother about ideology nor give any value to rationality. Of the three aspects of time – past, present and future – they think only about the present. They have neither the time nor the inclination to think about the past or the future. Religion, spirituality and a genuine social system have no significance for them…”
“Shúdras are always sleeping. They can perform work only if someone wakes them up. Once the work is done, they go back to sleep. In order to maintain the cáturvarńika (i.e. shudra, ksatriya, vipra, & vaeshya) social system, some work will have to be taken from the shúdras. Consciousness should be developed among shúdras in order to protect them from the inhuman greed of the vaeshyas. (All non-vaeshyas slip into shúdra-hood on the eve of a shúdra revolution.)” (Humans Society – 2, The Kśatriya Age)

CAPITALISTS WANT TO RUIN COOPERATIVE SYSTEM

Here following Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar – the Propounder of Prout – is sounding the call how corrupt capitalists aim to root out the cooperative approach.

“The main reason for the failure of the cooperative system in different countries of the world is rampant immorality which has been perpetrated by capitalist exploiters so that they can maintain their
economic exploitation.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 13, p. 8)

THE SUCCESS OF PROUT IS SURE

More and more are awakened to the extreme degree of exploitation carried out by capitalist leaders. That is enough to spell the demise of capitalism coupled with the rise of the God-centered teachings of Prout.

“We are near the last stage of the Vaeshya Era. If an impact is created, it will help the suffering humanity. It is the most opportune moment for creating an all-round revolution. This is a new sub-theory under Proutistic theory and may be called gati vijina´na – the science of dynamics in PROUT.” (Proutist Economics – Economic Dynamics – 1)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Kalyansundaram

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RE: HOW SHUDRAS ARE BRAINWASHED

== RE: HOW SHUDRAS ARE BRAINWASHED ==

~ Part 2 ~

Namaskar,
Those aware about the teachings of Prout are keenly aware about the avaricious and exploitative approach of big capitalists. In countless discourses, Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar has exposed the blood-sucking ways of those vaeshyan leaders [wealthy businessman]. Here, we are referring to those top-most corporate heads who lead business enterprises and exploit the common people. Through their own greedy mind-set, they resort to psychic exploitation to manipulate the masses.

“In straightforward language it can be said the main goal of capitalists is to draw more and more blood from the common mass, i.e. to make money off of the efforts of others. In this regard, the greed and devouring approach of such capitalists knows no bounds. Their main strategy is to create a group of employees and manipulate them into working night and day. Then those bosses keep all profits for themselves. This is essentially what top vaeshyas aim to do. Hard-working and dutiful employees get virtually nothing for all their sweat and blood. Instead, all the cream goes to those top company executives – i.e. those blood-sucking capitalists. That is the chief characteristic of the vaeshyan era – the top people gain control over most of the money while countless others do all the work.”

Indeed, capitalist psychic exploitation is being carried out at a ghastly pace and the chief underlying factor is that they have molded the minds of the common people. Various labour unions have put up big battles against these capitalist forces, but in the height of this vaeshyan era, the capitalists have won, temporarily. That means for the time being they have brainwashed the majority of the public – i.e. their employees are ready to respond to their every beckon and call. Those top company executives get what they want done with the willing help of their exploited employees, i.e. shudras.

And more about their brainwashing techniques is described below.

AGAINST THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT OF HUMANITY

As Proutists, as Ananda Margiis, and as citizens, we should know that the days of the capitalists reign are numbered. They will not be in power forever. Such capitalists have gone against the fundamental right of humanity. This entire creation is the property of Parama Purusa , and we are all His children; thus the wealth of this universe is the common patrimony of all. By this God-centered, spiritual outlook every human being has equal right to the moveable and immoveable property of this universe. As soon as people become critically aware of this right, the days of capitalist rule will be in peril.

Already, there is a section of the workforce in the capitalist system that is aware of vaeshyan exploitation. These conscious labourers, known as vikśubdha shúdras, try mightily to raise the call and put an end to capitalist exploitation. Now they are too few in number, so the capitalist system carries on. However, soon that will change.

Certainly most Ananda Margiis are acutely aware of the exploitative measures taken by those company leaders. The main approach is that more consciousness raising and awareness is needed in the public sector. And that will come: The people are feeling the squeeze of capitalist exploitation and it will not be long before they search for answers.

THEIR APPROACH OF BRAINWASHING

Unfortunately, as it stands now, a major section of the workforce gets spoon-fed the idea that their company is their well-wisher and friend – that the company is their family. So at first the capitalist enterprise tries to purchase their employees by giving them a small amount of money. Then those capitalist executives inject brainwashing strategies in order maximize employee output and extract tremendous profits from them.

For example, during the holidays and weekends, companies organise various types of “fun” gatherings like picnics and seminars etc whereby the employees pass even their leisure time under the “protective care” of the company. They even take family vacations with their company. The whole point being that employees are led to believe that the company is actually their family. Once this idea gets set in the mind, those employees will walk to the ends of the earth to get the job done for their cherished company.

Company executives get into the mind-set of their employees and by this way drive them to exponentially increase their work. Such employees get so stressed out that they lose their perspective. Those suffering employees get convinced into thinking that their status will be enhanced by making the company more successful. This is another aspect of the brainwashing going on.

In this way, capitalist exploiters exponentially advance their income and increase profits for every employee they hire. They pay the employees 1x amount and from that employee’s work those capitalist make 10x, 50x, 100x or more. When you multiply that by each and every employee, it is quite evident that huge money is going into the bank accounts of those company leaders. All done by psychically exploiting their work-force.

Actually such employees are so brainwashed that they are not shocked or dismayed by this. Rather they glorify their company and pay tribute to and worship the top capitalists of the world. How does this happen? Capitalist opportunists appease and lure their employees by brainwashing them.

To reverse this situation, the activities of labour movements must be supported and more consciousness raising programs are needed to create more vikśubdha shúdras. Actually, with every passing day, more and more a looking for a viable alternative. So the ground is becoming more fertile.

LIKE THE MASTER AND HIS DOG

Altogether, the current situation is just like one master who had a dog. After taking a huge voracious meal the master is fed like a king. If he eats one more morsel he will burp – or worse. In that bloated state, the master feeds a few small leftover scraps to the dog and the dog is forever grateful.

Such is the situation nowadays. Top capitalists garner huge profits while the vast majority of employees in the general society are exploited to the bone. Those employees eat, sleep, & dream about their work. Even on Saturdays and Sundays they get called into work and put in lots of overtime hours that never get clocked. In this way they maintain an arduous work schedule yet earn comparatively nothing in return.

They are so brainwashed that they think the company is their benefactor. So when they get a “bonus” they become thrilled as if that is really something great. When in fact from their efforts their employers make huge profits that are piled to the sky. As an afterthought those big bosses half-heartedly toss a few copper coins in the direction of their employees. By this tactic, those capitalists get renewed vigor, commitment and faith from their employees. All because those employees have become psychically crippled by their bosses.

This is the way the situation is going on these days. All because much of the the general public is unaware and in their ignorance they revere those capitalists and are ready to do anything for them.

However, in this present hour, the number of vikśubdha shúdras is growing as more are becoming aware of the exploitative methods of such capitalists. As soon as the common people become aware of their rights, a critical mass will be reached, and they will not sit and watch capitalists hoard all the wealth. Rather they will be primed to jump into action and pay heed to the calls of “No more capitalist exploitation – All have the right to the wealth of the universe.”

MULTI-STEP APPROACH

To overcome the grip of the current vaeshyan model a few things are needed. People must be made aware of their rights; they must gain a keen awareness of capitalist exploitation; they must become vikśubdha shúdras. Then, there will be the requisite momentum to cohesively advance a Proutistic economic system based on the cooperative model.

COOPERATIVES: THE PROUTISTIC ALTERNATIVE

Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar has given the teachings of Prout, including the cooperative system. In the capitalist structure, the over-accumulation of wealth is the aim of top business executives; they want to hoard all the money. Whereas, in the cooperative model, the fair-minded earnings of the collective are rationally divided between all participants.

Prout theory states, “The total profit of such co-operatives should be distributed amongst the workers and members of the co-operative according to their individual capital investment in the cooperative and to the service they render to the production and management of the co-operative.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14, p.46)

Thus, as Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar describes above, in the cooperative system the profits are shared based on the merit system – but all are guaranteed enough funds for the necessities of life. In that way, all members of the cooperative earn a fair portion based on their investment and work ethic. This is one of the revolutionary qualities of the cooperative model.

CAPITALISTS ARE ANTI-PROUT

In a nutshell, it can be said that capitalists operate in a manner that is 100% contrary to the ways of Prout because those bosses are driven by their extreme selfish desire to pocket huge amounts of money – all the while manipulating and exploiting those doing the work.

In a phrase the capitalist model is profit-motive. Everything and anything is justified by that bottom line. In contrast, Prout is based on the service motive where the economy is consumption based.

So capitalist appraoch is only fueled by owners making more money – at any cost; and, the Proutistic model is for the service and well-being of society. They are diametrically opposite to one another.

More about this striking difference is discussed in various discourses like: Economic Dynamics, Talks on Prout, Decentralized Economy – 1, Socio-Economic Movements, etc.

COOPERATIVES BASED ON COORDINATED COOPERATION

The Proutistic model is entirely different. By awakening the masses and creating more vikśubdha shúdras, we will soon be able to implement the cooperative model.

MORE TEACHINGS ON THE COOPERATIVE MODEL

Here below Shrii Sarkar is furthermore telling about the special benefits of Proutistic cooperatives.

“Through the co-operative system human society will progress with accelerating speed.” (Proutist Economics)

“Co-operatives will greatly assist in psychic and spiritual advancement.” (Proutist Economics)

“PROUT supports the implementation of the co-operative system. Its inner spirit is one of coordinated co-operation, for only that can ensure the healthy, integrated progress of humanity. The co-operative system is essential to establish complete and everlasting unity amongst the human race. People should work to enjoy sweeter fruits by establishing the co-operative system.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14, p. 40)

PROUT GUIDELINE:

EVERYTHING IS THE COMMON PATRIMONY OF ALL

Here is Prout’s comprehensive call for all to embrace their rights and put an end to capitalism, and establish the ways of Prout.

“None of the movable or immovable property of this universe belongs to any particular individual; everything is the common patrimony of all, and the Father of all is Brahma. All living beings can enjoy their rightful share of this property, like members of a joint family in the Dáyabhága system. As members of a joint family, human beings should safeguard this common property in a befitting manner and utilize it properly. They should also make proper arrangements so that everyone can enjoy it with equal rights, ensuring that all have the minimum requirements of life to enable them to live in a healthy body with a sound mind.” (Problems of the Day, Point #1)

The following Prout principle from Ananda Sutram highlights how surplus wealth should be distributed.

Atiriktaḿ pradátavyaḿ guńánupátena (5-10)

[The surplus wealth should be distributed among meritorious people according to the degree of their merit.]

“Purport: After meeting the minimum requirements of all in any age, the surplus wealth will have to be distributed among meritorious people according to the degree of their merit. In an age when a bicycle is the minimum requirement for common people, a motor vehicle is necessary for a physician. In recognition of people’s merit, and to provide the meritorious with greater opportunities to serve the society, they have to be provided with motor vehicles. The dictum “Serve according to your capacity and earn according to your necessity” sounds pleasing, but will yield no results in the hard soil of the earth.” (Ananda Sutram)

As members of this universal human family, everyone must abide by the tenet that the wealth of this manifested universe belongs to Parama Purusa, and all are His children, so the wealth should be shared rationally amongst all. There must not be scope for people to get caught up in capitalistic tendencies.

“We must not forget, even for a single moment, that the entire animate world is a vast joint family. Nature has not assigned any portion of this property to any particular individual…When the entire wealth of the universe is the common patrimony of all living beings, can the system in which some roll in luxury, while others, deprived of a morsel of food, shrivel up and starve to death bit by bit, be said to have the support of dharma?”
“In a joint family every member is provided with adequate food, clothing, education and medical treatment, and amenities, as per their individual needs, according to the financial capacity of the entire family. If, however, any member of the family appropriates more grains, clothes, books or medicines than he or she requires, will that person not be the cause of distress to other members of the family? In such circumstances his or her actions will be certainly against dharma – certainly antisocial.”
“Similarly, the capitalists of this modern world are anti-dharma, or antisocial, creatures. To accumulate massive wealth, they reduce others to skin and bones gnawed by hunger and force them to die of starvation; to dazzle people with the glamour of their garments, they compel others to wear rags; and to increase their own vital strength, they suck dry the vital juice of others.”
“A member of a joint family cannot be called a social being if he or she does not possess the sentiment of oneness with the other members, or if he or she does not want to accept the lofty ideal of joint rights and the principle of rationality…” (Problems of the Day, Point #1)

CURING CAPITALISTS OF THEIR DISEASE

“A little while ago I said that all crude objects of enjoyment are limited in nature, and thus their accumulation by any one individual is not desirable. Let everybody enjoy as much of the subtle psychic world as they can – let them accumulate as many psychic and spiritual resources as they want – but there must be provision for the application of force if needed to prevent any one individual from accumulating excessive physical resources. The application of physical force will, no doubt, deprive people of some of the wealth they have accumulated or decrease their opportunities to accumulate physical wealth in the future. But it is certainly not impossible, through proper education, to transform people’s desire for material pleasure into a desire for psychic pabula. (In fact, the desire for physical or psychic pabula “springs from innate psychic longings. The desires of the crude mind are easily satisfied.” However, I object to calling the desires of the crude mind pure psychic longings.) This type of education is essential in society today.”
“Such an approach does not deny the world, as do impractical idealists, nor does it attempt to suppress the higher propensities of the human mind, as do materialists.”
“Unless people’s propensities are directed towards subtle forms of expression, their minds tend to get enmeshed in thoughts of petty enjoyment. People who portray themselves as saviours of humanity and espouse high-sounding philosophies from public platforms at the tops of their voices, while at the same time nourishing within themselves the worms of self-interest, can, in any weak moment, deceive the naive public. This is a perfectly natural thing for them to do. Those who want to build a society based on human welfare without first developing themselves fully through spiritual practices, will not only degrade themselves, they will also cause the degeneration of the whole of society. They will not even be able to trust the people with whom they are working. They may initially try to develop their own capacity in order to attain positions of leadership, but eventually their sole aim will be to dominate others instead of developing themselves. When they realize from bitter experience that it is not possible to utilize the society as a vehicle for establishing their group or party supremacy, or when the suppressed masses rise up and revolt, the evil tendency to suppress the people will certainly awaken in them.” (Human Society – 1, Social Justice)

MORE PROUTISTIC TEACHINGS ABOUT CAPITALISTS

(A) Here below Prout teachings outline the key role that vikśubdha shúdras play and why their presence is so vital.

“In a capitalistic social system or in a democratic structure the situation of middle-class people (the vikśubdha shúdras) is generally miserable. This is because they are the greatest critics of capitalism and the strongest opponents of exploitation. An increase in the number of vikśubdha shúdras in a society is an early omen of a possible shúdra revolution. It is therefore the duty of those who want to create a world free of exploitation to help to increase the number of vikśubdha shúdras. It will be harmful for the revolution if these people die or are transformed into shúdra-minded shúdras. All the sadvipras in the world should be vigilant to make sure that the number of vikśubdha shúdras does not decrease due to unemployment, birth control, or other bad practices or policies.” (Human Society – 2, Shúdra Revolution and Sadvipra Society)

(B) In this next teaching, Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar guides us that capitalists will stay in power for a long, long time – until that key moment arrives when there is a rise in mass awareness. That moment is soon to be upon us – we should ready the soil.

“Vaeshyas [wealthy businessman] believe that only a few people can accumulate material wealth, depriving the rest. Thus there will always be only a few vaeshyas, while those who are the objects and tools of their exploitation form the majority. Like exploited beasts of burden which carry bags of sugar, in their crippled state of mind the majority feel that they do not have the right to taste the sweetness. This feeling is the greatest ally of the vaeshyas, so directly or indirectly they always try to nurture this type of feeling in the minds of the majority. Consequently they propagate various types of isms and ethereal theories with the help of the vipras in their pay whom they have reduced to the level of shúdras. When the majority, unable to tolerate this exploitation any longer or find any other way out, desperately leap into action, the Vaeshya Age comes to an end. But it takes a long time for downtrodden people to understand that the vaeshyas are the parasites of society. Hence thorough preparation is required to end the Vaeshya Age.” (Human Society – 2, The Vaeshya Age)

(C) Here Prout philosophy points out how in the height of the vaeshyan era all others get reduced to the status of shudra – all are exploited.

“The vaeshyas increase their wealth by buying the back-breaking labour of the shúdras, the powerful personalities of the kśatriyas, and the intellect of the vipras, according to their needs. The shúdras, just like beasts, sell their physical labour in exchange for mere subsistence. Because they sell their labour, society survives and moves ahead. The powerful personalities of the kśatriyas build and maintain the social structure with the labour extracted from the shúdras. Through their intellect the vipras utilize the personal force of the kśatriyas, and through their money and capitalistic mentality the vaeshyas utilize the vipras’ intellect to increase their wealth.”
“The vaeshyas do not confront any social problem directly. Just as they buy the labour of the shúdras, the personal force of the kśatriyas and the intellect of the vipras with money, so they endeavour to solve all social problems with money. They do not win victory on the battlefield; they buy it with money. In poverty-stricken democratic countries they buy votes. As they accomplish everything with money, their vital force comes from money. They therefore take all sorts of risks in life to accumulate money. For money they can sacrifice their conscience, their sense of good and bad, right and wrong, at any moment. So in order to save the exploited shúdras, kśatriyas and vipras from the vaeshyas, money, which is the source of all their power, has to be taken out of their hands.” (Human Society – 2, The Vaeshya Age)

WHO IS SHUDRA

Throughout His Proutistic teachings, Baba has discussed the mind-set of those who get exploited by capitalist in the height of the vaeshayan era. Those who give way to this mentality are verily shudras. Unfortunately, now in the early part of this 21st century, many fall in this category.

“Shúdras live only for physical enjoyment. They neither bother about ideology nor give any value to rationality. Of the three aspects of time – past, present and future – they think only about the present. They have neither the time nor the inclination to think about the past or the future. Religion, spirituality and a genuine social system have no significance for them…”
“Shúdras are always sleeping. They can perform work only if someone wakes them up. Once the work is done, they go back to sleep. In order to maintain the cáturvarńika (i.e. shudra, ksatriya, vipra, & vaeshya) social system, some work will have to be taken from the shúdras. Consciousness should be developed among shúdras in order to protect them from the inhuman greed of the vaeshyas. (All non-vaeshyas slip into shúdra-hood on the eve of a shúdra revolution.)” (Humans Society – 2, The Kśatriya Age)

Namaskar,
At His lotus feet,
Pradiip

NOTE 1: SIMPLE DEFINITIONS OF SHUDRA AND VAESHYA

Shudra: Those who are busy thinking about their bread and butter and do not have space to think about anything else – just their material existence.

Vaeshya: Wealthy businessman.

NOTE 2: FOR MORE INFORMATION

This entire letter is based on the teachings of Prout. Those who wish to know more about this topic should reference the various discourses on Proutist economic policies, or write in with your queries.

NOTE 3: SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Please write-in detailing what you have seen with regards to the psychic exploitation of the masses by those capitalists. What strategies have you seem them do to befool and brainwash their employees.

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B GROUP SELLING LIVE AQUATIC ANIMALS TO KILL & EAT

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Posting: B Group Selling Live Aquatic Animals to Kill & Eat
(2) Trailer Quote: Link Between Service & Sadhana
(3) Prabhat Samgiita #2329;

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

== B GROUP SELLING LIVE AQUATIC ANIMALS TO KILL & EAT ==

Namaskar,
You may know that in many Ananda Marga units in Bengal, many Wts maintain various ponds for cultivating and selling fish in order to earn money. West Bengal is a huge fish-eating region; eating fish is such a way of life that they simply refer to fish as “water fruit.” Just as a desert is filled with cactus plants, similarly all across Bengal there are man-made and natural ponds. They are a common phenomenon. The ponds are maintained to store live fish for this community of fish-eating people.

To capitalize on the situation, certain B group Wts thought they should join in and do this as a business. Those Wts thought that selling fish to the people would be a good way to make money. Here is how it works.

Wherever they have ample space, on various Ananda Marga units they maintain large ponds that are stocked with fish. Then those Wts get the word out that the people are welcome to come and fish those ponds for a fee. Essentially, Wts sell “fishing rights” to locals, and in turn those villagers etc can come and catch and eat the fish from the pond.

The rates may vary from pond to pond, and may vary based on how many fish a person catches etc. But all along the basic idea is one: Wts charge locals a particular amount of money to come and kill the fish. You may have heard about this.

Now it is our duty to consider how far this is consistent with our ideals of neo-humanism.

As Ananda Margiis, we know that we are to honour and respect all forms of life and that we do not condone the cruel killing of any being, including fish.

USE OF PISCICULTURE

Baba has given the program of pisciculture, a key system for creating ecological balance and averting and solving the water crisis. Here is how it works.

All kinds of aquatic animals like crabs, oysters, and fish etc should be cultivated in ponds and lakes. By their very presence in those water bodies, that water is cleaned and kept at an optimal level. Trees and other vegetation should be planted around those lakes and ponds. That brings shade to the area, attracts rain clouds, and very importantly, brings birds to the region. Those birds will prevent the over-population of fish, ensuring balance.

The establishment of lakes and ponds is Baba’s system for water conservation. The presence of aquatic animals is key for its success. So that is the right use of fish in the Ananda Marga model of pisciculture.

To kill and eat those fish for human consumption is a direct violation of Baba’s given system.

Prout philosophy says, “Fish should be cultivated in lakes, dams and ponds because they help conserve and purify the water. Small fish can also be cultivated in the paddy fields during the rainy season. Fish are the natural food of birds, so they are an essential part of a balanced ecology.” (1)

Prout philosophy says, “Pisciculture should also be developed in ponds and lakes. The fish help to keep the water clean and the level constant because their breathing creates water and carbon dioxide. The fish inhale oxygen along with water vapour from the atmosphere as well as dissolved oxygen from the water. They synthesize water which is exhaled into the lake. This helps to keep the water in the lake at a constant level. If many fish live in a lake, hundreds and even thousands of gallons of water will be added to the size of the lake in the course of time. Each lake should also have an attached bird sanctuary, because the fish provide food for the birds.” (2)

Thus there is no scope for Wts to sell and kill fish in the name of pisciculture. That is not Baba’s system.

“THOSE THEY HAD TRUSTED AS THEIR FRIENDS ARE ACTUALLY THEIR ENEMIES”

Next Baba points out the hypocritical and bogus way that some humans treat animals. They superficially treat animals as friends one moment and then butcher them the next – often to get a profit. Is this not what B group Wts are doing with their fish.

“Passing through many lives as worms, insects, birds, and animals, they have undergone countless pains, miseries, tortures and humiliations. Take for example the life of a goat. A goat spends its life eating grass, until the day comes when the butcher grabs it, kills it, skins it and sells its flesh piece by piece in the market. That goat at one time had to live such a miserable life. But today it has forgotten all this. Through a process of forward movement, today it may have attained a human life.”
“Human life is more secure than animal life. Many animals live in the jungle where there is something to fear every minute; where the weak are the prey of the strong. To escape this atmosphere of fear and insecurity, many wild animals have sought refuge with human beings. They have been fed grass, leaves and other types of fodder until the right moment came to kill them for their flesh. Even today, this is generally what happens. Animals fully trust human beings; they trust them even up to one minute before their death. But when they see a person approaching them with a weapon in hand, they realize that those they had trusted as their friends are actually their enemies. Although human beings feed their animals, the love or attachment which they have for them is purely external. There is no genuine love in humans. This is how wretched animal life can be.”
“Every human being has had to pass through that sort of painful animal life in the past. But that does not mean we should be the cause of misery for those animals who have taken shelter with us today. On the contrary, we should have a merciful attitude towards them. A woman who has been badly treated or humiliated by her mother-in-law should be careful that she does not treat her daughter-in-law in the same way. Human beings should carry out their duties properly in the external world and should always ensure that no being suffers unnecessarily from any undue mistreatment. In the physical sphere, the rights of all should be protected.” (3)

“I SHOULD NOT KILL, I SHOULD NOT GIVE THEM ANY TROUBLE…”

As responsible human beings and as sadhakas, we should abide by Baba’s following teachings.

“We should live with the policy of “Live and let others live”.” (4)

Ananda Marga philosophy says, “For each and every living entity one’s personal life is the dearest thing. One loves one’s personal life very much. This is the rule, this is the characteristic of all living beings. But those people who understand this sentiment of living beings and love others with the thought, “I should not kill, I should not give them any trouble because they love their life as much as I love my own life”, are true sádhus and those who lack this sentiment are not sádhus, they are asádhu. Preaching the gospels of peace, and at the same time slaughtering chickens, is not a proper thing for a sádhu because the one who kills the chickens loves his life and the chickens also love their own lives. So that man lacks the universal sentiment of love. He is not a sádhu. A sádhu must be vegetarian.” (5)

Thus it is very clear that we should allow other beings to joyously live their lives, and we should not needlessly harm or kill them. That is our ethic in Ananda Marga. And that is Baba’s teaching. Certainly every Ananda Margii understands this.

Even then many of those Wt’s in Bengal have their set justification. They say, “What is wrong; we are not killing the fish; we are just charging the local people to come and catch fish on our land. If they did not fish on our land, they would fish somewhere else.” This is their rationalisation.

By that reasoning then, a villager would be able to invites goondhas (rough criminals) to come to his area and rob the local people, and in return that villager would get a percentage of the looting or booty.

So the justification given by those Wts does not hold any value.

A CASE OF DECEPTION

That is not the only justification they give…

B group workers also give the false justification that by keeping such fish ponds they are following Baba’s system of pisciculture. But this is absolutely wrong. As noted above, Baba’s system of pisciculture is for ecological balance and water conservation – not the wanton killing and selling of fish. Today’s capitalistic fishing industries exploit the fish for profits etc. But that is not our way; and no one should be led to believe that is Baba’s system.

Baba’s given program of pisciculture is for ecological sustainability, animal welfare, and the benefit of all beings – bar none.

NO QUESTION OF OVER-POPULATION

Then there are some who think that the pond will be over-populated by fish, if people do not come and go fishing in those ponds. But at about this, there is no need to worry about that. Before humans were on the planet, there were all kinds of animals all over this earth. To such persons, Baba has given the ultimate reply.

Baba says “Some people argue that animals have been created by Parama Puruśa for our food. I knew a certain person who used to say that if people do not eat goats’ meat, the world would become populated only by goats. And others said that if people don’t eat chickens, there would not be even a single inch of space on this earth – it would be filled with chickens! Now my point is, even though human beings do not eat vultures, is there a crowd of vultures in the world? How foolish such people are! People don’t eat earthworms – has there been an uncontrollable growth of earthworms on earth? Only out of excessive greed, people eat chickens and goats and are simply searching for logic to support their actions and cover up their weakness. This sort of cunning will not do. In the mobility of the psychic world, there are certain defective thoughts prevailing – that we humans are destined to rule this earth, and the creatures are destined to be ruled by us. You will have to fight against this type of psychology with the help of your strong weapon. What is that weapon? Neohumanism. All have the equal right to live here: this universe is for all. It is not the patrimony of human beings only. This is also the duty of Renaissance people.” (6)

NOT SADHU BUT PSEUDO-CULTURE

Clearly, Baba has given the mandate that we are not to allow or encourage fishing as we are to safeguard the well-being of every animal in this creation. We should not exploit, directly or indirectly, any creature in order to make a profit etc. This is not our way.

That is why it is so shocking that our Wts are involved in the selling and killing of fish in various parts of West Bengal. Rather such Wts should stand on the moral principles of Ananda Marga and teach the people the right ideals of life through their own conduct.

But this much many B group Wts do not do. Rather than maintaining the neo-humanistic vision of Ananda Marga, and rather than living the life of a sadhu, many Wts just given in to local, pseudo-culture values, and sell fish in order to make a profit. They think that since the locals are already involved in eating fish then what is wrong.

However, what if the local population was involved in prostitution or harsh drugs like heroin etc. In those cases also, should Wts step into the business ring and try to make a profit? Should we allow or encourage that? Certainly not.

Yet that is the very attitude that is plaguing our Ananda Marga at present.

USING DIRTY MONEY TO PROCURE THEIR OWN FOOD

For all these reasons and more, many are saying that such Wts are using dirty money to procure their own food. They have plunged themselves into a business that is against the ethics of neo-humanism; they have adopted a profession that goes contrary to the ways of right livelihood (samyak ajiiva) since they are making money by harming and killing other beings; yet by that way their are profiting and using that dirty money to purchase their own food. This is veritably a filthy cycle.

Here are more of Baba’s teachings that guide us that no one in Ananda Marga, including our Wts, should be involved in the business of selling and killing fish etc.

“WHY SHOULD I KILL AN INNOCENT CREATURE JUST FOR THE SAKE OF…”

Práńáh yathátmano’bhiiśt́áh bhútánám api te tathá;
Atmaopamyena bhútánám dayáḿ kurvanti sádhavah.

“Just as your life is extremely dear to you, similarly the lives of others are equally dear to them. A person who thinks thus and shows mercy on other creatures is really a sádhu, or virtuous person.” In order to become a virtuous person one need not give up one’s worldly life. When this idea dawns on one’s mind one realizes, “Why should I kill an innocent creature just for the sake of the gratification of my palate.” But then one may suddenly discover a different kind of scriptural injunction – “Oh yes, you may sacrifice animals in a particular way and the sacrificed animal will attain salvation.” People follow the scriptural injunction helplessly but in their heart of hearts they realize that the whole thing is irrational. Yet they cannot gather sufficient courage to go against the “scripture”. This sort of idea which impedes the progress of the mind is called “dogma”. A dogma arises from either a defective philosophy or a “scripture”. This sort of dogma should be rejected forthwith.” (7)

“HUMAN BEINGS ARE MORE CRUEL THAN VULTURES”

Ananda Marga teachings state: “Vultures are carnivorous birds. Yet it is found that they are not cruel or heartless. Usually, like eagles, they do not attack living humans or animals. Their habit is to eat the flesh of dead bodies. There was an incident in my childhood that I can still vividly recall. On the west of our locality there was a large field which bordered on a tributary of the Ganges. As the soil was not fit for cultivation nothing could be grown there. On the upper side of that fallow land was a mound upon which stood a large tamarind tree. A vulture lived in a nest on the tree. Beside the mound was the site for the disposal of carcasses. Cows used to graze in the field as did a few horses and sheep. Once an old cow came there and fell flat on the ground due to utter exhaustion. The veterinary doctor came and said, “The cow has no chance of survival. She is likely to die in a few hours.” The owner of the cow was a very kind-hearted man. He tried to save the cow in various ways but in vain. I noticed that as long as the cow was alive, she gently wagged her tail, even when her eyes were half closed. There was no other symptom of life, at least that is what it seemed to me. I also noticed that while her tail was wagging, the vulture stayed patiently in the tree. It came to eat the cow’s flesh only an hour after her natural death. Human beings are more cruel than vultures. Their hearts don’t melt even at the sight of tears of innocent birds and animals. Just to gratify their sense of greed, they mercilessly slit the throats of animals with sharp knives and swords and thus deprive them of the right to live, even while preaching the hollow dictates of religion.” (8)

“THEY GET CONTAMINATED BY THESE SAME DEFECTS”

Baba says, “Fish eat all kinds of things. Because of this, the positive qualities of those foods which they eat they may or may not get; but, certainly they get the negative qualities or defects of those foods which they eat. In addition, fish quarrel so much among themselves; they are quarrel mongers. They eat each other; they feel jealous towards one another; and also they have the tendency to wander around aimlessly in an indisciplined, disorderly manner. Because of these negative qualities of fish, since ages there has been the feeling amongst the general public that those who are fish eaters, they get contaminated by these same defects.” (9)

Amongst all of India, the most densely populated fish-eating area is Bengal. Indeed, Baba says that the main population of Bengal are kaevarta (fisherman community). There are a huge number of lakes, ponds, rivers, and water sources in Bengal; that is why fish flourish there. Thus in Bengal fish are known as water fruit. Except for very strict devoted margiis, most of them like to eat fish.

SUMMARY

B group’s present-day manner of fishing for profits directly contravenes all Baba’s guidelines on pisciculture. His divine mandates for pisciculture stand as a broad-based ecological approach for balance and sustainability. Fish are needed for the keeping healthy and clean lakes and ponds. Those bodies of water should furthermore be surrounded by trees. Birds will naturally flock to those tress and naturally control the population of fish. This is the keen way and role of our fisheries / pisciculture system. Whereas, B group’s short-sighted, greedy and heartless way of selling and killing fish to make a profit neglects all neo-humanistic values and undermines the spirit and use of Baba’s dharmic guideline on pisciculture.

Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Candra Deva

REFERENCES
1. Ideal Farming, Integrated Farming
2. Ideal Farming, Lakeside and Riverside Plantations
3. 2 January 1979, Patna
4. Discourses on Prout, pt #1
5. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 2, Keep Company with the Virtuous
6. Prout in a Nutshell – 9, Renaissance in All the Strata of Life
7. Yoga Psychology, Instinct and Devotion
8. Neo-Humanism in a Nutshell – 2
9. Shabda Cayanika – 20, Bangla, Disc #156

The section below this mark is an entirely different topic and not related with the subject matter up above.

*****************************************
Link Between Service and Sadhana

“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. Because of your spiritual progress, you will come closer and closer to the Supreme Consciousness, you will come in contact with His psychic waves. And in that state you will be able to render still better service to human beings, animals and plants.” (Subhasita Samgraha – 16 (H), p. 10-11)

Note: Without good sadhana rendering real social service is impossible.
*****************************************

Prabhat Samgiita

“Bha’loba’si toma’y a’mi, keno ta’ ja’ni na’…” P.S. 2329

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Supreme One, I love You; but, I do not know why I love You. You go on pulling my heart – but what is the mystery behind this, how and why You are attracting me, that I cannot say. Baba, all I know is that You are the divine effulgence of my dark heart. By Your grace, I will never allow that effulgence to get extinguished. Baba, I will always keep Your love in my heart. By Your grace, I will always hold Your divine image in my mind.

O’ Divine Entity, all the love I have in the deep core of my heart, and all the hopes and longings I have in my mind, all these desires and aspirations of mine are revolving around You. By Your grace, they get expressed through Your songs, dance, melody, and rhythms. O’ Parama Purusa, You are the focal point of my life; You are my everything.

Baba, by Your divine grace, I feel that You are guiding each and every aspect of my existence. There is not even a single ounce of confusion in my mind. Everything is very clear. Where am I, where will I go, and from where have I come: All these types of useless questions never creep into my mind. Baba, by Your grace, I do not even want to know these things. Just I am fully depending upon You: You know everything and that everything is in Your control. For me that is enough. Baba, You are my shelter, You are my anchor, and You are the Supreme Controller of this vast universe.

Baba, You are always ever gracious on me. I love You with all my heart; my whole existence is Yours…

Read Full Post »

Baba Story About Prout Government

From: “Ramlal Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Baba Story About Prout Government
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2013 23:26:08 +0530

Baba

This entire email is composed of 4 parts:
(1) Posting: Baba Story About Prout Government;
(2) Posting: Two Opposite Types of Mantras;
(3) Posting: Baba’s Procedural Order: No Co-Education Upon Entering Puberty
(4) Prabhat Samgiita #3580.

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

== BABA STORY ABOUT PROUT GOVERNMENT ==

~ HOW OPPOSITION WORKS ~

Note: This short story is related with one very senior Proutist – Shrii Shashi Ranjanji, a key member of parliament with a high post and a founding member of PBI (Proutist Block of India). The following story is one key point where Sadguru Baba graciously responds to Shashi Ranjanji’s query on Prout policies. Shashi Ranjanji is also known as Shashi Ranjan Sahu.

Namaskar,
On various occasions, I was blessed to be along with Baba while He was delivering guidelines on Prout.

We all knew that Baba’s plan was that margiis should challenge every election and run for every seat of Parliament. This was Baba’s outlined approach.

In my mind, however, I was wondering what would happen if really margiis ran for and won every seat of parliament. In that case, who would serve as the opposition group in Parliament.

For instance, in the general democratic system, there is one elected party in power. And all elected officials of that majority party will automatically and brazenly support their elected executive chief, i.e. the leader of the country. This is the norm. Yet, side by side, there are many other elected officials who are part of one or more minority groups. And it is these minority group(s) that stand as an oppositional force to the party in power. That is the way it runs. But if one party gets 75% or 80% of the seats in Parliament or Congress, then there is hardly any debate – what a leader wants do they do by voice vote. What to speak of if one group gets 100% of the seats.

Thus, if the Prout Party runs for and wins every seat of Parliament then how will there be an opposition group. Every elected official will be a Proutist and hence part of the Prout party. Then where is there scope for any opposition. This was the quandary in my mind.

So I asked Baba, “Suppose, all the members of Parliament are from the Proutist party then how will there be any opposition?”

Baba told, “Yes, there will be scope for opposition. Elected members of Parliament will pressurise those at the helm and ensure that Prout principles are followed and implemented. The loyalty of the elected leaders will not take the shape of blind support for the top post holder, but rather their loyalty will be in the form of the rational and just implementation of Proutistic ideals – in the service of the entire society. Those elected leaders will be vigilant that Proutists in the top executive offices are discharging their duties properly. On such points, there will be vigorous and open debate. That is how the opposition will be formed when Proutists have 100% of the seats in Parliament.”

I thought, “Yes, this is how we will proceed when Proutists win over all elected seats of Parliament. They will not work like general politicians wherein elected members of the ruling party blindly support the executive branch.”

Namaskar,
At His Lotus Feet,
Shashi Ranjan

REFLECTION

Unfortunately, nowadays in Ananda Marga, those in the executive body (i.e. purodhas in Central Office) do not appreciate any opposition from their own members, let alone from field workers and general margiis. That is why countless wrongs are going on in AMPS.

The duty of general purodhas is to keep a sharp eye on the executive body, and take them to task when they veer from Baba’s teachings. However, instead of taking dharmic stand, such purodhas are stooges. They sit there and allow top purodhas to do as they wish – wholly disregarding Guru’s mandates.

Once again, the main problem nowadays in AMPS is that healthy debate and criticism is not allowed. In that condition, general wts and margins have no voice. Top purodhas rule according to their convenience. Then sin and crime brews. In the end, they all drown in the mud of their own crime and sin.

If anyone does not understand this short explanation please write back.

Namaskar,
in His service,
Pradiip

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

Subject: Two Opposite Types of Mantras
From: Gaungadhar ght2314@gtu…
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Date: Thu, 27 Mar 2013 20:44:21

== TWO OPPOSITE TYPES OF MANTRAS ==

Namaskar,
Here is one very important and unique aspect about ista mantras in our Ananda Marga sadhana system. Baba has only discussed this point on select occasions – i.e. very rarely.

‘Mananat tarayet yastu sah mantrah parikiirttitah’

“Mantra is that particular word whose repetition or auto-suggestion or outer-suggestion helps the microcosm free itself of all the fetters of physical, psychic, and spiritual life.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 5, p. 96)

In His above teaching, Baba is guiding us about the important role auto and outer suggestion have in the repetition of a mantra. We all know that in the first lesson of our Ananda Marga sadhana we use a mantra. Each one of the Ananda Marga ista mantras are based either on auto suggestion or outer suggestion. At the time of initiation, based on their samskara, every Ananda Margii is given their own personal ista mantra. And that is the mantra they will use for their entire life.

MEANING OF ISTA MANTRA

AUTO SUGGESTION VS OUTER SUGGESTION

So some sadhakas have ista mantras which are based exclusively on auto-suggestion; and some have mantras based only on outer suggestion. It varies from mantra to mantra.

For example, for some sadhakas, their ista mantra is based on auto suggestion. The meaning is, ‘I am that…’, i.e. ‘I am Brahma’.

So, in this case, the sadhaka is suggesting this idea to himself while repeating his mantra. And during the repetition of the first half of the ista mantra while inhaling the sadhaka thinks ‘I am’. And when repeating the second half of the ista mantra while exhaling he ideates on ‘Brahma’. The full idea is: “I am Brahma.” This is how the ista mantra works with auto suggestion. And that is what Baba is referring to in the above guideline.

Whereas in outer suggestion, the types of mantra used in first lesson are somewhat different.

In that case, Gurushakti gives the suggestion to the sadhaka, ‘you are that…’, i.e. ‘you are Brahma’. So here ‘you’ means the sadhaka, not someone else. Thus during the first half of the mantra on the inhalation the idea comes from Gurushakti to the sadhaka that ‘you are’. And on the second half of the ista mantra upon exhalation the ideation is on ‘Brahma’. The full idea is: “You are Brahma.” This is how an ista mantra works with outer suggestion.

In the Ananda Marga sadhana system, most of the ista mantras are based on auto-suggestion. It is rare to receive an ista mantra based on outer suggestion.

DO NOT REPEAT TWO TYPES OF MANTRA

ONLY REPEAT YOUR OWN PERSON ISTA MANTRA

Thus when repeating their ista mantra every sadhaka must follow their assigned mantra – either it is auto suggestion or outer suggestion, depending on their mantra – as it is allotted by their acarya. No individual is given two mantras. Every sadhaka is given one single mantra, and that mantra is based either on auto or outer suggestion.

So one must not do both types, auto & outer. This should never be done. One has either been assigned an auto suggestion mantra or one based on outer suggestion. The one you have received is what you will use for the duration.

In select circumstances, if a mistake was made at the time of initiation, it may be that certain individuals need to have their ista mantras changed. If so, this is always done by an acarya. Beyond that, every sadhaka should always use the ista mantra given to them at the time of initiation.

Just as one should not take two different antibiotics at the same time, similarly one should not use both types of ista mantras, i.e. auto and outer. Likewise, just as one should not stand on two different moving vehicles at the same time, similarly one should not use both types of ista mantras, i.e. auto and outer.

Here every sadhaka should keep in mind that this distinction between the auto and outer ista mantras is a very subtle aspect of sadhana. Only discuss this point with those acaryas who have a very keen interest in sadhana. If you ask those wts who are fully involved in mundane dealings, business, and xyz pursuits, they will only yawn and misguide you, unfortunately. If you search you will find that there are many sincere acaryas.

Note: This matter of auto and outer suggestion is related with one’s ista mantra. So I cannot write the actual mantras here because they cannot be told openly. So it is the duty of sadhakas to communicate one-on-one with an acarya on this.

IF SADHANA NOT DONE IN A METHODICAL WAY, THE RESULT IS NEGATIVE

“The mind thinks with concentration, that is, the mind meditates. Regarding this faculty of thinking, if it is done in a methodical way, the result is certainly positive…But if it is not done in a methodical way, the general result is negative.” (2 June 1990 RU, Anandanagar)

PURPOSE IN WRITING ABOUT AUTO AND OUTER SUGGESTION OF MANTRA

The purpose in writing about auto and outer suggestion of mantra is two-fold:

(a) All sadhakas should understand the meaning of their mantra; those not aware should consult their acarya.

(b) By raising this matter, acaryas will be forced to educate themselves on the deeper aspects of sadhana.

Namaskar,
At His Lotus Feet,
Gaungadhar

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

Subject: Baba’s Procedural Order: No Co-Education Upon Entering Puberty
From: Kavita@opera…
Date: Thu, 28 Mar 2013 22:33:46
To: am-global@earthlink.net

BABA’S PROCEDURAL ORDER:

NO CO-EDUCATION UPON ENTERING PUBERTY

Namaskar,
“Some of you are aware that one central didi – herein referred to as Didi D – is extremely attached with a young man of 18 years of age, whom we shall call Mr. S. The situation is not at all ordinary – rather quite abnormal. They live together: Sleeping, eating, and going together etc. Didi D and Mr S are very linked with each other.

The reason why this is such an important matter is because this has the makings of becoming a systemic issue within our Marga. The likes of which have been the downfall of many religions and spiritual communities. We should not let our Ananda Marga suffer the same fate.”

According to the following procedural order, Didi Ananda Dyotona is disobeying Baba and contravening His stated guideline. That is very unfortunate. Didiji is doing adharmic work, incurring sin and bad samsakras, as well as ruining the life of a young man, Shubham. The whole scene is quite tragic.

Here following is Baba’s own Procedural Order which states that our Ananda Marga schools must not be co-ed once children have reached the age of puberty.

A’NANDA MA’RGA PRACA’RAKA SA’MGHA (Central)

A’NANDA NAGAR

PLO no. 1A/4.2.1969

As per rules, co-education is allowed in our Schools up to Standard V. but boys who are learning in Std. V or below but have crossed twelve years of age will not be permitted to study in any of our lady managed Schools. Similarly girls who are learning in Std. V or below but have crossed 12 years of age, shall not be allowed to study in our Schools (for boys).

Feb 4, 1969

Note: Standard V is the equivalent of 5th grade or 5th class in the western system.

According to Baba’s above procedural order on co-education, there are two determining factors. If one has reached the age of 12 then that is one point to separate males and females in their schooling. Secondly, if any student has completed Standard V grade, they must be in gender-separated learning environment. So if one has completed standard V and still is not 12yrs of age, then they cannot continue into grade VI in a co-ed school. Thus, boys and girls cannot attend the same school if they are of 12 years of age or have completed Standard V grade, whichever comes first.

The real essence of the stipulation is based upon adolescence or puberty. Once the mammary glands have developed in girls and the related glands for boys, then they cannot attend the same school. That is Baba’s guideline.

So nowadays when in some parts of the world, girls and boys enter into adolescence at the age of 8, then that marks the time they must attend a single-gender school.

“Yes, I am interested in receiving the scanned PO”

The above is Baba’s procedural order. Baba has given the order and in due course GS Dada would sign and circulate it. The above is the email version. If you want a scanned copy of the actual order then click reply and paste this into the subject box: “Yes, I am interested in receiving the scanned PO”.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Kavita

Note: LINK TO EARLIER LETTER ABOUT DIDIJI

For more about the situation with Didiji and Shubham click on the below link.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/03/disastrous-trend-threat-to-existence.html

**** Here begins the Prabhat Samgiita ****

“Madhur mohan tumi cita-rainjan a’cho sada’ sa’the sa’the…” (3580)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, You are very sweet, most attractive. You have coloured my mind in Your colour. That is why You are Cita-Rainjan [1]. Always You are remaining with me side by side. You have removed the despair and filled my heart with Your love. All the darkness & hopelessness was removed by that light.

O’ Divine Entity, You are beyond the scriptures, intellect, logic, and reasoning, You are above all these; You are Alakha-Nirainjain [2], beyond description. Infinite and unblemished. Only You can shatter the bondage of avidya maya – the mirage of negative attraction – and grant salvation. Baba, You are the most charming, the most sweet, my own…

END NOTES FOR PRABHATA SAMGITIA #3580:

[1] Cita-Rainjan: Baba guides us & we all know that devotion is that unique ingredient which allows one to advance in the spiritual field. Without innate love for Parama Purusa one can never succeed. By Baba’s divine grace, in His role as Cit-Rainjan, He is that Divine Entity who colours and saturates the mind of sadhakas in the fountain of devotion. Baba says, “‘rainjana’, which means ‘the One who colours’ – that which colours the mind.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam-1) So He is that Cosmic Being who graciously showers devotional love into the heart and mind of the bhakta. And by such overwhelming Cosmic grace, the devotee becomes immersed in Supreme bliss and comes in the closest proximity with that Love Personified Entity: Parama Purusa.

[2] Alakhanirainjan: (‘Alakh’ means ‘invisible’; ‘nir’ means ‘no’; ‘ainjan’ means ‘black spot’.) Of the infinite attributions of Parama Purusa, one of which is that He is invisible and blemishless– totally pure and perfect. That is why He is known as Alakhanirainjan. Because in this world unit beings are bound by their past actions, by their samskaras; and this creates a black mark in their mind. But being Alakhanirainjan, being both invisible and blemishless, Parama Purusa is totally beyond the realm of sense perception and beyond the realm of samskara. His mind never gets stained. He remains eternally pure and spotless.

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HOW TO AVOID WAR

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Posting: How to Avoid War
(2) Trailer Quote: Real Wealth
(3) Prabhat Samgiita #980;
Each section is demarcated by asterisks (***).

== HOW TO AVOID WAR ==

Namaskar,
As we have seen in this modern era, the US has been very aggressive in taking up military action in the Middle East; not coincidentally, the US is the top consumer of oil and that quota is primarily filled from reservoirs around the globe – especially those in the Middle East.

For this reason the US has built up the biggest army in the world. That way the US can secure raw materials in one of two ways. Either the US makes deals with those foreign leaders and easily gains access to raw materials, or the US goes to war. War results when outside rulers are not cooperative and do not give way to US demands. In that case, the US will try to remove that ruler and insert their own hand-picked stooge. This is their long-standing approach.

France adheres to this same tactic, and verily this is the common trend around the globe. Rich countries exploit poor countries to gain control over their natural resources and raw materials. To avoid this, Prout has given a very meaningful and rational formula. By this way, we can bring back peace and tranquility onto this earth.

OF CONCERN TO ALL

The issue of energy is of great concern around the globe. All want to create a renewable, sustainable energy policy. Yet in the practical sphere, for various reasons it has not taken shape on the societal level. The teachings of Prout offer some important solutions, and outline key underlying cause(s). As Ananda Margiis, we should be keenly aware of our Proutistic outlook.

IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM:

RAMPANT EXPLOITATION OF RESOURCES

As with any problem, it is critical to identify the root cause.

“According to PROUT, economic exploitation involves the unrestricted plunder of the physical and psychic labour of a particular community together with the natural resources in their local area.” (1)

So materialistic economic policies and programs have led to the rampant destruction and manipulation of natural resources. This has severely threatened the earth’s ecological balance and led to an environmental crisis.

To date, there has been an unrelenting push to scour the earth’s natural resources for maximum economic gain. With money as the main priority, sound environmental policies have either been absent or overlooked.

Due to this type of economic exploitation and plunder, the globe now finds itself in an energy crisis.

Prout teachings offer numerous solutions to this dire problem.

NATURAL RESOURCES USED LOCALLY

One key principle is that each and every area or district should be developed using their own natural resources. Countries should not depend upon oil etc from other outside regions.

Prout philosophy says, “In a healthy economy raw materials should come from the local area. Industries which are based on imported raw materials are always weak industries, sick industries. A sick economy depends upon raw materials from outside – it depends upon import. For example, the Barauni Oil Refinery in Bihar is a sick industry because it depends upon crude oil from Assam. If there is any disturbance in Assam or if India is balkanized, then the refinery will have to close down. The establishment of this refinery was a foolish act. It does not represent a healthy economic structure. It is a sick industry, a foolish industry, a stupid industry!” (2)

The guiding approach is that raw materials and natural resources should be used locally. They should not be exported. Those economies that depend upon imported raw materials are weak.

Relying on oil from afar is a misguided way to build up one’s economy. Yet that has been the prevailing approach around the world. The US has relied heavily on the Middle East. Russia has become an increasing player in providing oil to countries around the globe. Rare is the case where an economy wholly depends upon their own local resources.

The Proutistic response is that each and every land should be developed using their own natural resources. There are practical solutions for each and every area to create their own fuel. Here following is one such approach.

“Many healthy industries based on local raw materials can be developed. For example, high-quality concentrated alcohol fuel can be produced from sugar beet and sugar cane. Concentrated alcohol can replace fossil fuels, as the stock of crude oil is fast diminishing.” (3)

Further down in this email is a listing of Proutistic solutions for how cities, states, and countries can develop their own energy.

THERE IS PLENTY FOR ALL

First it should be clearly recognised that there are sufficient natural resources for all. By a careful, thought out approach we as a humanity will realise that all that is needed has been provided. To date, human error has been the cause of shortages in resources.

“If there were maximum utilization and rational distribution of all natural resources, pressing socio-economic problems could be easily solved. It is a law of nature that a mother is provided with sufficient breast milk to feed her newly born baby. In the same way nature has generously provided sufficient resources to meet the food and other essential requirements of all human beings. People need to utilize these natural resources in a proper way. Shortages of food or space cannot be blamed on nature. These problems are essentially the results of the mistakes made by human beings.” (4)

So the energy crisis of today is not due to a lack of resources but rather stems from the misutilisation and misappropriation of those resources. Each and every area has the requisite raw materials for building a healthy social order.

Prout philosophy states, “Nature has been kind enough to provide abundant natural resources to every region of this earth.” (5)

As a case in point, even the economically impoverished region of Rarh has all the energy resources it needs.

“In Ra’r’h there are extensive deposits of coal, coal gas and natural gas.” (6)

By all this it is quite clear that one need not live in the Middle East or in Alaska to get the oil they need. If we remember His guidelines and look carefully, then we will find that in each and every land, there are sufficient deposits of natural resources to meet the energy requirements of that area.

ENERGY SHOULD BE A NOT-FOR-PROFIT INDUSTRY

Here Prout teachings give more insight into and significant solutions for the world’s energy crisis.

“The local administration will have to supply locally generated power such as solar energy, thermal energy, bio-gas, hydroelectricity, nuclear energy, pneumatic energy, electromagnetic energy and tidal power, or any other power which is easily available locally. The generation of power is a key industry which should be run on a no profit, no loss basis so that the cost of production is minimized and the purchasing capacity of the people is increased. For example, if batteries are produced through cottage industries, power should be supplied on a no profit, no loss basis, but the battery producers will be able to sell their batteries at a rational profit. Here the power that is used to manufacture the batteries is not an industrial commodity but a raw material. The power for such things as transportation, communication, schools, colleges and hospitals should also be supplied on a no profit, no loss basis to maintain social dynamism.” (7)

So here above Prout guidelines give some key concepts about the generation and distribution of energy.

1. Local governments have to create their own power.
2. Power can be generated from any number of avenues: hydro, nuclear, tidal, solar etc.
3. This industry must run on a no-profit, no loss basis.

Looking around the globe, anyone can easily see that part and parcel of the energy squeeze today is that capitalist multinational corporations are using gas and oil to pull in huge profits. At present, Exxon-Mobil – that massive oil corporation – is the wealthiest company in the world. Indeed, a high percentage of the most profitable companies in the world are oil companies such as: Royal Dutch Shell plc (Netherlands), PetroChina Company Limited (China), Petroleo Brasileiro SA Petrobras (Brazil).

These corporations accumulate huge profits while stripping near and far distant lands of their natural resources. This type of capitalistic plundering and profiteering goes entirely counter to our Proutistic outlook. And that is why the problem is growing today.

Whereas as soon as the above Proutistic methods are followed, then that will ease the energy crisis immediately.

NO NEED FOR CONCERN AND WORRY

Some may now be losing hope and thinking that it will be impossible to institute these types of changes. But actually, due to the current & ongoing energy crises, there are many who are already considering and implementing such type of Proutistic methods. In each and every area this is happening. More about this is discussed below.

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES

Some may think that alternative energy can only be supplied in certain key areas. For example, a few may be thinking that solar power can only be generated in the sunny desert etc, but this is not at all the case. In these next series of quotes, please find countless solutions and suggestions how alternative energy can be created and found in all the regions of the world. According to Prout teachings, there are innumerable sources of good, useable energy.

“Two types of power can be developed in Bangladesh – power from oceanic tides, and solar energy. Oceanic tides can be harnessed in the Bakargang subdivision of Noakhali district where the Meghana River enters the ocean, and in the Chandpur subdivision of British Tripura district where the Dakatiya River enters the ocean. Many waves and turbulences are created by the impact of these rivers when they enter the Bay of Bengal. Tidal power would be very cheap to harness there. Solar power can also be harnessed, but this source of power is not so developed yet. It will become increasingly important in the future.” (8)

So in the above guideline, it is clear that tidal and solar energy is important and will play a big role in the future. Here below are more ways for how to generate solar energy.

“There is no need to purchase coal from outside as is being done now. Solar power can also be generated in the plain areas where the land is wavy.” (9)

And with His broad based perspective, the Propounder of Prout philosophy has given innumerable ways how to generate energy from a variety of sources.

“Energy and transportation: Until solar energy can be manufactured cheaply, other energy sources can be utilized, like hydroelectricity, coal, thermal power, tidal power, geo-thermal power, wind power and natural gas. All the raw materials necessary for transportation are also available, including rubber, steel, mica, mica chips, mercury, silver, copper, quartz and manganese.” (10)

PETROLEUM ALSO WILL NOT BE IN SHORTAGE

And in those areas where there will be continued use of petroleum, Prout philosophy offers these two important guidelines.

“Petroleum can also be recovered from certain types of river valleys. Where the river bed is broad there is a chance of finding petroleum.” (11)

“There may be a shortage of petroleum but elements for creating petroleum are available in the world. We will be able to produce synthetic petroleum.” (12)

Thus even petroleum will be abundantly available in the near future.

ESTABLISHMENT OF PROUT IS FAST COMING

None should hopelessly ponder that Prout will never be established – already it is getting manifest. And quickly too.

As we all know Baba has graciously given Prout in the year 1955. And in those days the world was not at all willing to move in that direction. For one reason or another the leaders and citizens were quite satisfied with the way things were going. The ideas of Prout seemed like a far-away dream. But now only 54 years later, huge progress has developed towards adopting Prout. Due to extreme social and economic circumstances, many communities and businesses are consciously or unconsciously moving in that direction. People have been forced to think in that way.

The magic wave has been created for all His Proutistic guidelines to be implemented. Some are getting established by right thinking Proutists and other Prout guidelines are taking shape simply because the ways of old are no longer working. And this global transition is occurring at a marked rate, i.e. quickly. The speed will only increase exponentially in the coming months and years.

Thus none should think that they will not see the implementation of Prout. Already the hard part is over: the psychic seeds and awareness has taken root. The conditions are ripe. And very soon, more and more, we will see the sprouting of Prout in each and every land and community around this globe.

As we – as a humanity – continue to search for solutions and alternatives in the escalating energy crisis, more and more will turn to the ideas of Prout.

IDEALS OF PROUT

Here following is the divine assurance and blessing that our human existence will become better and better in all the spheres. Only by implementing the aforementioned Proutistic measures on energy resources will there be joy and peace on this earth.

Prout philosophy says, “The progressive availability of the maximum amenities of life will be guaranteed in PROUT, satisfying physical needs. The satisfied physical needs will lessen the physical obstacles which inhibit human progress, and human beings will experience all-round development, especially in the intellectual stratum. Human beings will get the opportunity to develop in the intellectual stratum without any hindrances. The truth of humanity, the veracity of humanity, will go on increasing in different areas of expression….the whole existence of human beings will become effulgent in the attainment of the Supreme.” (13)

Namaskar,
Vinay

REFERENCES:
1. Prout
2. Proutist Economics
3. Proutist Economics
4. A Few Problems Solved – 9, ‘Population Growth & Control’
5. Prout in a Nutshell – 21
6. Proutist Economics
7. Proutist Economics, ‘Decentralised Economy-1’
8. Proutist Economic
9. Prout in a Nutshell – 19
10. A Few Problems Solve – 7, ‘Parts of the Economy’
11. AFPS-9, ‘Geology and Human Civilisation’
12. AFPS-8, ‘Rule of Rationality’
13. Prout in a Nutshell – 17, ‘Min Req & Max Amen’

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.

**************************************
Real Wealth:

One Should Ponder, Assimilate, and Practice

Parama Purusa BABA says, “Those who seek to attain the permanent cessation of afflictions in their lives, have no other way than to follow this path of sadhana. Imagine that a certain person had accumulated vast wealth due to his life long’s diligent labor. It may be that the person, in the days of his prosperity, was a central figure in the society. But at the end of his life he may suffered a wretched existence, bemoaning his losses in the arid desert of his heart. The reason is that the person had an insatiable thirst for material objects and never tried to identify his individual flow with the cosmic flow. On the other hand, a person living in a thatched hut may not forget Parama Purus’a even in the midst of abject poverty and never deviates from the goal of his life. Such a person’s life can never lose its charm. Every dust particle of this earth will seem to be as sweet as honey to him. Likewise, his existence will acquire the sweetness of honey.” (Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell – 4, pg 290)
**************************************

**** Here begins the Prabhat Samgiita ****

“Tumi esecho, bha’lo besecho, bhola’ye sakal vyatha’ sab ha’ha’ka’r…” (PS 980)

Purport:

Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, my heart was sunk in sorrow and woe; I was forlorn and had lost all hope. I was crying, thinking I am all alone and that in this world no one is mine. Baba, You have graced me by coming and blessed me with Your love. You have made my heart and mind overflowing in Your divine bliss. By Your causeless grace, all my pains, lamentations, and tragedies have been wiped away. You have filled my life with bliss.

O’ my Lord, You are so gracious. You have responded and come to me with Your sweet smile. Baba, with Your infinite beauty and charm You have won over everyone’s heart. Baba, my love knows only You. You are everything for me. There is no one else; nothing else can attract me; I only love You. Baba, it is Your grace: I am always ensconced in Your tune, melody, and Your divine attraction – in pleasure, in pain, and also when my pride is wounded. Baba, You belong to everyone, even then in my heart I know that You are only mine. You belong to me and me alone.

Baba, Your presence is everywhere. The mark of Your love is found on the flower and the leaves – on every spot in this panoramic world. Even then the black bee of my mind wants You alone. Baba on my worst days, when all hope was gone, when I had lost everything, in that desperate circumstance when no one else was there to help me, You always came and resolved all my troubles, pains, and problems. Baba, You are the sweetest of the sweet. You are only mine; You are only mine.

Baba, You have graced me by coming. It is Your grace; it is Your grace…

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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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Story: Incurring Debt Ruins Mental Peace And Friendship

Date: Wed, 27 Feb 2013 21:21:56
Subject: Story: Incurring Debt Ruins Mental Peace And Friendship
From: Punya’tman Deva
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Prabhat Samgiita #3199;
(2) Posting: Story: Incurring Debt Ruins Mental Peace And Friendship
(3) Trailer Quote: Bengalis and Mahasambhuti

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

**** Here begins the Prabhat Samgiita ****

“Jhar’er ra’te a’ndha’rete kendechilum van-ma’jhe…” (P.S. 3199)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, on that very dark night when a big thunderstorm was raging, I was crying alone in the deep forest. Nobody was there to talk to – to console me – to understand the tale of my suffering. Nobody was nearby. Certainly You were there along with me, but I could not feel Your presence.

In the height of that wild storm big branches were breaking off from the trees and crashing down on the ground. And all those tender buds and beautiful flowers were also completely blown off from the limbs of the trees; those buds and flowers were wailing loud lamentations; the trees were crying bitterly. That very dark, horrendous night was so disastrous.

O’ Parama Purusa, after this dark, menacing storm passes, and a soft, gentle breeze is in the air, will You please come in the madhuvan [1] of my mind, in my mental garden, with Your sweet, attractive form?…

NOTE FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3199:

[1] Madhuvan: Literally meaning “sweet forest”; But it refers to that remote, isolated, garden in the mind that is filled with spring blossoms, sweet fragrance, aromatic flowers, and a gentle & fragrant breeze. It is that tranquil mental abode where nobody is present except the devotee and the Lord. And there the bhakta and Parama Purusa sit together ensconced in that very divinely intoxicated atmosphere and they share the loving feeling of their heart in a very close, intimate, and loving way.

== STORY: INCURRING DEBT RUINS MENTAL PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP ==

Namaskar,
This letter contains an in-depth Baba story with His critical and detailed guidelines about borrowing and lending money. This is very practical knowledge for us all to have as we may find ourselves in this position one day soon.

Do we lend money to those in need, or not?

Read below to get Baba’s pointed guideline and convey His unique message to others in your unit and community.

ANANDA MARGA: OPPOSITE OF CAPITALISM

The present era of materialism preaches “instant gratification”: Enjoy the world by buying happiness. Credit cards and loans are readily available to the common person. Indeed lending agencies and credit card companies are standing by with astronomical interest rates in order to rip off consumers. It is a deadly cycle; already so many have been victimised.

In Ananda Marga, our view is diametrically opposite. We interact with this world for our daily needs and aim our mind towards psychic and psycho-spiritual pursuits. We seek happiness and peace in those upper realms, not in the instant gratification of worldly indulgences. We know this, we practice this, but even then some in our Marga have gotten bound by the noose of capitalism.

But there is no winning in capitalism. Only those top capitalists derive some selfish benefit. The common public just borrows and spends money on material allurements hoping to find happiness; but ultimately they find themselves upset, frustrated and in debt. All the while, the impoverished masses around the globe suffer from an extreme dearth of resources, which have been gobbled up by those capitalists.

So we should not fall prey to the capitalist cycle of borrowing and spending. Please read this following Baba story about this very subject.

BABA STORY:

GUIDELINES ON FINANCIAL DEALING

Baba was against people borrowing or lending money. One day He said, “You must know that lending as well as borrowing is undesirable and detestable.”

I had known Baba’s attitude and so had always tried not to borrow money. But I still had a question, “Was it so bad to lend money to someone in distress?”

Baba answered with an illustration. “Do you know why it isn’t desirable to lend out money? Suppose someone has come to you to borrow some money. Maybe his need is genuine and his appeal is justified. As you listen to his story of distress, you are likely to want to be kind to him. Even if it is beyond your own means to lend a big amount, you become so upset thinking of his dire need that you take pity on him. Your thoughts get interrupted as the gentleman says, ‘You need not worry, dear brother. Please help me wriggle out of my crisis. If your generosity can take me out the present crisis, I’ll repay the loan within a month. Meanwhile I’m likely to get some money soon, so you may rest assured that you’ll get back your money on time.'”

Baba continued, “There may be no reason for you to disbelieve him. Suppose you are soft-hearted, so you collect the money somehow and hand it over to him. And he, too, feels glad and goes away.”

“That man may not have any intention of taking you for a ride, but it may turn out that he can’t get hold of the money as he thought. It is not so unusual. But you go on nursing the hope that he will repay you at the end of the month.”

“A month goes by. He hesitates to see you out of his shame because he has no money to repay to you. Suppose you go to him out of need for the money. In all likelihood he will be ill at ease and may take offense at your uncalled-for-presence. He will think, ‘How disgusting! He has come to me straightaway.’ Understandably, he will tell you a long excuse about why he has failed to repay you. You will give a patient hearing to him and coming back home begin to wait for the deadline as promised. There will be times when you come across him on the street. Immediately, he will think ‘O, my God! Here he is again, he will certainly remind me of my debt!'”

“Of course it’s only natural such thoughts come to mind, interspersed with some inaudible abusive remarks. Maybe you didn’t go to him for money, but what is that to him? Your presence will be unpleasant enough.”

“So whenever you meet him, he will think, ‘I am lost! He has come again to pressure me for that money.’ At the same time he will hurl some unsavory remarks at you, albeit silently. Contrary to what is in his mind, he will say, ‘Welcome, my dear brother. I am glad to meet you. I am so grateful to you,’ and so on and so forth.

“Undoubtedly the moment he sees you, he will heap uncharitable remarks on you, but when you will come within earshot, he will be all praises an parade his respect for you. It goes without saying that you will be put into a dilemma from not getting your money back even at the time of your own dire need. It may happen that your need will drive you to his house and shout from outside, ‘Hello, Mr.—-, are you there?’

“He will think, ‘Oh! he has come again for the money. What will I say to him?’

“Thinking this, he will not only silently curse you, but also try his best to avoid an encounter with you. Instead of coming outside, he will tell his little son to tell you that his father is out. Accordingly, the boy will run to you to inform you that his father is not in.

“Looking askance at him, you will say, ‘Go inside and find out for certain whether or not your father is there.’ The simple-minded child will reply, ‘Why, I don’t need to check because father has himself said that he is out.’ In this way your relationship with that friend will sour and you don’t know where it will end.”

“Well, he certainly would have been offended that first day if you had not lent him money. Not only that, he would possibly have been shocked and have silently heaped some abusive remarks. Nevertheless, the unpleasant situation would not have spilt over onto the rest of your life. If you lend money, you will inevitably invite filthy remarks galore. That is why a person should think many times before lending to others.”

I asked, “Sometimes a really good man may fall into trouble and sincerely need help. In that case, what is to be done?”

Baba said, “Instead of lending him money, you should help him according to your capacity. Suppose he is asking for five thousand rupees. Tell him your attitude about lending money and let him know your financial condition. Then help him with an amount that’s within your means. It may not be as much as he demands, but he will get consolation that you tried to share his difficulties.” (“My Days with Baba”, Sarveshvarananda)

The above story is quite clear on the point of borrowing and lending. According to Baba, we should not borrow money nor should we lend it. If anyone truly needs financial help, then we should give them money according to our capacity, and not expect anything in return.

BABA’S FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Here are some of His further teachings about this very critical topic.

First Baba warns us that we should seek counsel and permission before (a) spending money on superfluous items and (b) before taking any loan.

Ananda Marga Philosophy says, “I am also giving one more advice in regard to aparigraha. If any Margis have to spend on anything in addition to the fixed expenditure (for example, expensive clothing, ornaments, articles of furniture, marriage, building, etc.), they should, before incurring such expenditure, obtain a clear order from their ácárya, unit secretary or district secretary, or any other person of responsible rank. Similarly, permission is to be obtained before taking loan from any businessman or money-lender. Where one’s own ácárya or any person of responsible rank is not easily available, consultation or rather permission is to be obtained from any other ácárya, táttvika or any right-thinking member of the Marga. Every member should follow this instruction strictly.” (1)

Secondly, Baba warns us how money lending itself is a filthy profession. We should keep such greedy persons at arms-length.

Prout says, “People’s means of liveliood should not depend on the quarrel of individuals, as in the case of lawyers. Lawyers usually set one person against another and in this way they serve their personal interests. Similarly no one should be a trader in religion, because in the name of religion, many people are exploited. Nor should one earn one’s livelihood by dealing with dead bodies because such people want more and more people to die, so that they may thereby increase their income. People should also not earn their livelihood by lending money and taking interest. Such persons want to lend more and more money to gain more and more interest, and they do not want the borrowers to refund the capital. The scriptures stipulate that people should not accept food from such people, because their occupations are despicable.” (2)

Over the course of history – in so many lands – money lenders have exploited people to the bone and taken all they had. This has happened not only with the farmers of Bengal depicted below but in so many regions and eras, including in the present day US where countless innocent families are losing their homes because they are unable to pay the money / mortgage they owe.

“Another group of exploiters emerged who took advantage of the poverty of the farmers. These were the moneylenders, who lent money to the farmers at exorbitant rates of interest. The farmers were forced to take loans which they could never repay, so they mortgaged their lands. Eventually the moneylenders became the owners of the farmers’ lands, and the farmers were thus converted into landless labourers… moneylending by private capitalists should be banned and provisions must be made to pay loans in advance to the farmers through the banks. This will eradicate the exploitation by moneylenders and political cadres.” (3)

SUMMARY

We should all exercise extreme caution in our financial dealings. This era of extreme capitalism has devoured the lives of many – leaving them as desperate beggars unable to regain their footing. We must not let this happen to us or anyone we know. We should remain out of debt and keep our mind free for psycho-spiritual endeavors. That is the only way. Remember, one in debt becomes mentally bound by this financial burden as well.

Thus no one in Ananda Marga should make a living by lending money and no Ananda Margii should go into any sort of debt without first getting clear-cut permission from respected members of our Marga.

By following Baba’s guidelines, we can maintain our psychic equilibrium. Going into debt and digging means losing one’s mental peace and becoming a lifelong tool of those greedy capitalists.

MORE ANANDA MARGA GUIDELINES ON THIS TOPIC

WHO IS REALLY HAPPY

“The person who is able to get some vegetables to eat at least once a day, who incurs no debt and who has no need to leave home to earn a living, is really happy.” (4)

DO NOT BORROW TO HOST FEAST

“A marriage feast is completely optional and depends upon the financial capacity of the people concerned. Arranging the feast by taking a loan or incurring a debt is prohibited.” (5)

“For the celebration of this ceremony the arrangement of a social feast depends entirely on the desire and the financial position of the guardians concerned. Taking a loan or incurring a debt for this purpose is forbidden.” (6)

AGAINST YAMA AND NIYAMA

“It is often noticed that individuals incur debt because of their violating the principles of Yama and Niyama, especially due to their extravagance – and as a result, they approach the society for relief. In this connection I must point out that just as the society is duty-bound to give relief to individuals by combined efforts, so also it must have control over the conduct of individuals, over their practice of the principles of Yama and Niyama, and also over their expenditure. Not to consult anybody at the time of spending money but to ask for help from all when in debt, is not a good practice. Such a mentality cannot be encouraged.”
“To purchase, by incurring debt, serge where tweed will do, or gaberdine where serge will do, is surely against the principle of aparigraha. Similarly, people should take food which is nutritious but not rich. They have to give up the practice of feeding others with money taken on loan. That is why social control over the individual’s conduct and expenditure is indispensably necessary. Hence, all Ananda Margis, when they see other Margis acting against the principles of Yama and Niyama, must make them shun this habit either by sweet or harsh words or by dealing even more strictly. Thus they will have to make the society strong. Henceforth I direct every Ananda Margi to keep strict vigilance on other Ananda Margi to make them practise the principles of Yama and Niyama and also to accept calmly directions of other Margis in this connection.” (7)

“SOMETIMES PEOPLE MISUSE LOANS”

“You might have noticed that there are many countries which suffer from financial stringency, so they take loans from other countries. These loans are then used for ventures like constructing large dams on their rivers.”
“The science of economics teaches that the rolling of money should never be blocked by any sort of non-productive investment. Sometimes people misuse loans to construct an unnecessary building or a new showroom for their business, and thus prevent the possibility of reinvesting the capital and increasing their wealth. Economics teaches that loans taken for business investment should always be utilized for productive purposes, and should never be utilized in any unproductive venture. Foreign loans, for example, should never be invested in constructing large railway stations instead of railway lines.” (8)

INCURRING BIG DEBT TO MARRY DAUGHTER

“Formerly, even poor families had to sell their property to arrange the obsequies of their departed parents. Nowadays normally such things are rare. In such cases, kriyálopa took place under circumstantial pressure. But the custom of incurring heavy debt and selling one’s property to marry off one’s daughters still continues. Of course, when women become a little more socially-aware and men become a little more conscientious, and if women become economically self-reliant by bringing about a change in the economic structure, this custom of kanyádána = [forced social obligations to marry the daughters with dowry and feasts] will die out. And when the caste system will fully die out, the marriage system will develop in a healthy atmosphere. Many unhealthy customs will vanish from society.” (9)

IMPORTANT ACCOUNT

“In the factories and the rural production centres, the capitalist exploitation of India continues unabated, and the landholders, as the last vestiges of a feudalistic social order, perpetrate their exploitation in the villages. The capitalists and landlords carry on their exploitation hand-in-hand. The survival and social security of the landless labourers depends solely on the whims of the landlords, who can expel the labourers at any time on any pretext.”
“The exploitation by capitalists and landlords is accompanied by the exploitation by moneylenders. In the rural economy they lend money to the farmers and rural peasants, and are present in nearly every village and hamlet of West Bengal. Where the landlords are not physically present, their loyal agents are very active. The moneylenders have nothing to do with the land – they merely give loans to the poor farmers at high interest. Sometimes poor farmers cannot afford to procure farming implements, hence they are compelled to take loans from the moneylenders. If a moneylender gives one hundred rupees to a farmer, the farmer will have to repay two hundred rupees with interest, but the moneylender does not take back the loan in cash. Instead he realizes the amount in kind in the form of paddy, potatoes, etc., at cheap rates at the time of the harvest. The poor farmer, under the pressure of circumstances, has to accept this unwelcome system. He is a double loser – first, he has to pay more than double the amount of the original loan, and secondly, this amount is paid in kind at the rate of the harvest price of the crop, which is naturally very cheap. This whole process is conducted through agents, who also take their profit. Thus, the peasants and farmers of India are deprived of all their agricultural produce in four to five months of the year to repay the moneylenders, so for the remaining seven to eight months they have to approach the moneylenders again for fresh loans. At first they mortgage their implements, and then they are forced to part with their land. When the amount of the loans with compound interest increases to the point where the interest and the mortgage is equal to the price of their land, the moneylenders confiscate the land of the farmers. Consequently, the farmers get evicted from their land and move from village to village, living on the streets as beggars.”
“The direct representatives of the capitalist exploiters in the rural economy are the middlemen. They take advantage of the poverty and distress of the farmers and force them to depend on the capitalists for their production. For example, in West Bengal, Calcutta is the main centre of the capitalists, but of course they have subsidiary centres in various parts of the state. For instance, they have centres in Siliguri in North Bengal, Sainthia in Birbhum district, Purulia town in Purulia district and Midnapore town in Midnapore district. From these centres the capitalists, through their agents and middlemen, control the rural economy of West Bengal. The farmers depend on these middlemen not only to procure farm implements, but also to sell their agricultural produce. They also take advantage of the illiteracy of the simple uneducated farmers, collect their signatures or thumb prints for a larger loan, and pay them less than the market value of their produce.”
“Indian society is basically capitalistic, and the administrative system is a capitalist dominated democracy. It is the capitalists who control and direct the social, economic and political systems of India. The problem of how to remain in power is the most important issue for every political party that comes to power in an election. When political interest is of paramount importance, naturally the government will frame laws to safeguard the interests of the capitalist exploiters. The responsibility of upholding the interests of the exploiters in the name of law and order devolves onto the bureaucracy and police. The political leaders merely engage in internal bickering over their share of the ill-gotten gains.” (10)

“MONEY LENDING, CHARGING EXORBITANT INTEREST” = EXPLOITATION

“There are various types of exploitation in society. The form and character of exploitation changes as per changes in time, place and person. In every era of the social cycle, there are various kinds of exploitation. For example, in the economic sphere there is feudal exploitation, colonial exploitation, capitalist exploitation, imperialist exploitation and fascist exploitation. Exploitation may also manifest in such spheres as the physical, psychic, economic, political and cultural spheres. In the past the slave system was prevalent in the Greek and Roman Empires. The rulers sucked the blood of the vanquished to bolster their own interests. In psychic exploitation, the masses are misled with the help of pseudo-philosophies which encourage dogma and narrowmindedness. Democratic socialism and the theory of peaceful coexistence are examples of the hypocrite’s psychology. In economic exploitation, vested interests deprive people of their minimum requirements. Money lending, charging exorbitant interest rates, compelling poor farmers to sell their produce through distress sales, etc., are examples of economic exploitation. Regardless of the type of exploitation used by the exploiters, when society is moving towards revolution, the role of the exploiters is exposed. The exploiters are unable to disguise their exploitation any longer.” (11)

Namaskar,
Sastaunga Pranam to Baba,
Punya’tman

REFERENCES:
1. Guide to Human Conduct
2. Subhasita Samgraha – 11, The Supreme Desideratum of the Microcosms
3. Prout in a Nutshell – 19, Economic Exploitation of Bengal
4. Shabda Cayanika – 1, Discourse 1
5. Caryacarya – 1, Marriage Ceremony
6. Caryacarya – 1, Infant’s Játakarma: The Naming of and First Feeding of Solid Food to an Infant
7. A Guide to Human Conduct
8. Prout in a Nutshell-12, Keep Money Rolling – Excerpt A
9. Shabda Cayanika – 11, Sati and Widowhood – Excerpt C
10. Prout in a Nutshell-19, Economic Exploitation of Bengal
11. Prout in a Nutshell – 21, Nucelar Revolution

Note 1: Predatory Lending

(courtesy of Wikipedia)

“Predatory lending is the unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent practices of some lenders during the loan origination process. While there are no legal definitions in the United States for predatory lending, an audit report on predatory lending from the office of inspector general of the FDIC broadly defines predatory lending as “imposing unfair and abusive loan terms on borrowers.” Though there are laws against many of the specific practices commonly identified as predatory, various federal agencies use the term as a catch-all term for many specific illegal activities in the loan industry. Predatory lending should not be confused with predatory mortgage servicing which is the unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent practices of lenders and servicing agents during the loan or mortgage servicing process, post loan origination.”
“One less contentious definition of the term is “the practice of a lender deceptively convincing borrowers to agree to unfair and abusive loan terms, or systematically violating those terms in ways that make it difficult for the borrower to defend against.” Other types of lending sometimes also referred to as predatory include payday loans, certain types of credit cards, mainly subprime, or other forms of (again, often subprime) consumer debt, and overdraft loans, when the interest rates are considered unreasonably high. Although predatory lenders are most likely to target the less educated, the poor, racial minorities, and the elderly, victims of predatory lending are represented across all demographics.”
“Predatory lending typically occurs on loans backed by some kind of collateral, such as a car or house, so that if the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender can repossess or foreclose and profit by selling the repossessed or foreclosed property. Lenders may be accused of tricking a borrower into believing that an interest rate is lower than it actually is, or that the borrower’s ability to pay is greater than it actually is. The lender, or others as agents of the lender, may well profit from repossession or foreclosure upon the collateral.”

To Read More Visit: http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/02/more-on-debt-from-wikipedia.html

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.

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Bengalis and Mahasambhuti

Baba says, “During the war between the Kaoravas and the Pan’davas, the kings of Bengal did not take part. They thought there is no benefit in it.” (Bam’la’r Itiha’s, Ananda Vacanamrtam-10 [Bangla’])

The advent of Mahasambhuti on this planet is a grand event. Of course He does everything according to His divine plan. Those whom He graces work according to His direction and follow the command of Mahasambhuti. Those blessed souls who have a good samskara and strong devotion – and ultimately His grace – work unitedly under His shelter. Whereas those whose samskara is not good or are in a different flow keep themselves away. That is what happened in the Mahabharat era. From Afghanistan and Pakistan to Sri Lanka, and each and every nook and corner of south and north India, all the states including Nepal joined in to cooperate with Lord Krsna’s divine plans and programs. While some like Duryodhana did not support. As Baba says in His above teaching, that time the leaders of Bengal did not support Mahasambhuti.

Something similar is going on these days also as some from Bengal are not supporting. They are disobeying Guru Baba: By their own whim they invented the dogma of mahaprayan and observe it annually. This was never given or approved by Baba.
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Threatens The Longevity of Ananda Marga

Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2013 22:04:39
Subject: Threatens The Longevity of Ananda Marga
From: Jitendra
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

This entire email is composed of 3 parts:
(1) Prabhat Samgiita #3233;
(2) Posting: Threatens The Longevity of Ananda Marga
(3) Trailer Quote: Kettle Drum Is Not Sentient Kiirtan – How Kiirtan Controls the Mind

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

**** Here begins the Prabhat Samgiita ****

Baba

“Esecho a’ma’r ghare, krpa’r pasara’ ha’te kare…” (PS 3233)

Purport:

Baba, by Your own mercy and compassion, You have come to my abode holding a basket of grace. Baba, Your divine advent in my home is not due to my calling – it is solely due to Your infinite love. O’ My Lord, You have taken so much trouble to come to me. You are so gracious. O’ Parama Purusa, I do not have any quality of my own – nor have I done any good work, nor do I do proper sadhana. Even then with a deep yearning in my heart I go on remembering and calling You. Baba, today You have come to my abode.

Baba, the brilliant stars of the vast, expansive sky are chanting Your divine name and singing that: ‘You are the Divine Lord, the Divine Saviour, You help everyone’. Baba, everywhere, all the time, You shower Your causeless grace on one and all. O’ Supreme Entity, You are the Controller of this entire universe. In the blue sky, the meteor and galaxies are showering their effulgence for You – to serve You, to please You. Baba, today You have come to my abode.

O’ Parama Purusa, whatever I have achieved in life is because of Your grace. I do not have any merit of my own. You have graciously showered me with Your abundant compassion and filled my entire existence with Your fathomless love. Unfortunately I did not give You anything. Baba, by Your grace, today I have placed fresh flower blossoms along with my entire being at Your lotus feet. Baba, today You have come to my abode. I am surrendering myself at Your alter…

== THREATENS THE LONGEVITY OF ANANDA MARGA ==

Namaskar,
The so-called mahaprayan gathering is not an innocuous program; rather by definition it threatens the very survival of Ananda Marga society.

EVERY SOCIETY WANTS TO SURVIVE

BUT ALL SUCCUMB OVER TIME

There have been so many societies that have come on this earth and all wanted to survive – nay they all wanted to thrive and last forever on this earth. But the reality is that, at some point in time, each and every civilisation meets its demise and falls into oblivion.

Such civilisations of the past included the Mayan, Incas, Roman, Confucian, Greeks, Aztecs, Egyptian, Licchaviis, Vikings, Phoenicians – and the list goes on and on.

Similarly, the societies currently active on this globe also have their inherent flaws and weak links; they will not last long – let alone forever. Yet all hold the aspiration to stand the test of time.

OUR ANANDA MARGA IS DIFFERENT

Baba has graciously provided us with the key tenets that ensure the survival of any society. This He has done with the elaboration of the six spokes of the social cycle, or s’ad’ara’h sama’ja cakra. And these six are all present in Ananda Marga. As His disciples, we are to adhere to His guiding principles.

SIX SPOKES OF THE SOCIAL CYCLE

Before advancing any further, we should first identify what the six spokes are that ensure the preservation and prosperity of any society.

Baba says, “The six factors which guide society, which make it vibrate in bliss and dance in bliss when its different entities realize the fullness of existence in every fibre of their existence, are the s’ad’ara’h sama’ja cakra [six spokes of the social cycle]. The six are: spiritual practice, spiritual ideology, social outlook, socio-economic theory, scripture and preceptor.” (1)

Here Baba outlines the six spokes.

“Numerous factors are needed for the development of a group of people. But the following six are the most important of them.”

“There should be a spiritual ideology in the life of both the individual and the collective body. Much of your energy is misused due to the ignorance of your own self and the destination towards which you are moving. This misuse of energy is bound to cause destruction.”

“The second factor for the progress of society is spiritual cult, a Sádhaná process. Everyone has got a physical structure. The problem with every individual is to produce more and more ectoplasmic stuff by the body and then to convert it into consciousness. There should be a proper process for this conversion. Spiritual cult consists of the conversion of the five rudimental factors into ectoplasmic stuff and then into consciousness through a special scientific process. This is a process of metamorphosis. Spiritual cult therefore, is indispensable. But only spiritual ideology and spiritual philosophy will not do.”

“The third factor which is a blending of Asti (existence) and Bhati (growth) is a socio-economic theory. There should be a priori knowledge regarding the social structure, the distribution of wealth and its growth. For want of this knowledge there can’t be a solid ground for the construction of the social edifice.”

“The fourth one is social outlook. All living creatures in this manifest universe are the children of the same Cosmic Entity. They are the progeny of the same Supreme Progenitor. Naturally they are bound in a thread of fraternal relations. This is the central spirit. A socio-economic theory is of no use but for this fraternal feeling. The implementation of this theory is an impossibility without Sádhaná.”

“The fifth factor for the progress of society is for it to have its own scripture. There is a need for the company of elevated persons (satsaunga) in all spheres of life.”

“The authority whose contact means satsaunga for you is the shástra. That which elevates society by dint of sháśana is called [[shástra]]. We should have a shástra of our own. The last but not the least important factor for the progress of society is for it to have its own preceptor.”

“The entire social structure is dependent on these six factors. Bhati (growth) is meaningless without them. The weakness of one among them may jeopardize the very existence of Bhati.”

“From ancient times many groups of people came into existence. Some of them somehow managed to drag on, some became extinct and some continued to exist in a metamorphosed form. About one thousand five hundred years ago, Arabs were very developed in science. But they were defeated by the Islamic wave, for they were lacking in the six aforesaid factors, while the latter had at least five of them. The same is the case with Egypt. It was fully developed in the spheres of art, architecture and science. It is the Egyptians who made the pyramids which needed subtle geometrical knowledge. Moreover, they were also very advanced in the sphere of civilization. Despite this, they could not prevent their defeat. Today’s Egypt is the Egyptian form of Arab civilization. The cause of the death of its older form was the lack of the aforesaid six factors.”

“The Christian or Roman civilization was also considerably higher on the ladder of development. Yet they were lacking in social outlook. There were no feelings of fraternity and equality. The slave system was rampant and human feelings were on the wane. Furthermore, the lack of a proper socio-economic theory generated a kind of fascist mentality in them. Those rolling in luxury and adverse to labour became indolent. Naturally they were defeated by a stronger and more strenuous force. The destruction of the Greek and Chinese civilizations was also caused by the lack of the factors of Bhati. The Aryans could defeat the indigenous Indians only due to the latter’s lacking in the factors of Bhati (growth). They had several factors of Bhati but there was no preceptor and hence they were defeated.”

“In the future also, for want of the six factors of Bhati (growth), the extinction of a concerned group of people is sure to happen. But where these factors are present, there the movement is towards Ananda or divine bliss, and due to this movement the chance of their elimination becomes nil. Such groups which have the six factors in their possession will be able to produce Sadvipras. Sadvipras are those whose all efforts are directed towards the attainment of Ananda. They are also conscious of Asti (existence) and don’t lack in the six factors of Bhati (growth). They are strong in morality and are always ready to wage war against immoral activities.” (2)

ANANDA MARGA HAS ALL THE POINTS…

From beginning to end, our Ananda Marga is firmly grounded in all the six spokes of society: (I) spiritual practice, (II) spiritual ideology, (III) social outlook, (IV) socio-economic theory, (V) scripture, and (VI) preceptor.

(I) here below Baba clearly declares that we have a proper spiritual cult or spiritual practice.

“The practice of Ananda Marga has been formulated to enable spiritual aspirants to search for the Supreme within their minds.” (3)

(II) Here Baba clearly states that we have an proper spiritual ideology.

“How can human hunger be satisfied in the subtlest realm? For this Ananda Marga philosophy is there…Our ideology is a happy blending of rationality and spirituality.” (4)

(III) Here below Baba clearly tells that we have a proper social outlook.

“Ananda Marga is therefore not merely an organization of idealists or moralists who preach a classless society, but a method, a system or a dharma which leads to a classless society.” (5)

“Ananda Marga has formulated a social treatise for the establishment of a congenial social structure.” (6)

(IV) Here below Baba clearly guides us that we have a proper socio-economic theory.

“PROUT is the path of socio-economic emancipation for humanity.” (7)

(V) Here below Baba states that we have a proper scripture or shastra.

“The books in Ananda Marga philosophy are all absolute knowledge.” (8)

(VI) And we have true Preceptor, our Guru Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji.

“Ta’raka Brahma is quite a different Entity, a unique Entity, for He is spiritual preceptor, social preceptor, kaola and Maha’kaola all in one.” (9)

So in Ananda Marga, all the six spokes are perfectly met.

…BUT MAHAPRAYAN GOES AGAINST POINT OF PRECEPTOR

In addition, Baba – as the Guru, as the Preceptor – is an eternal Entity who will guide us through the ages.

“The one formless, beginningless and infinite Parama Brahma (Supreme Consciousness) is the only entity to be attained by living beings – That alone is Jagat Guru (the Supreme preceptor), That alone has revealed Brahmavidya’ (intuitional science) to us through the medium of the name and form of Anandamu’rtijii. Unit beings must be made to appreciate Its majesty.” (10)

Unfortunately, those who espouse the program of so-called mahaprayan go against this divine mandate by declaring Baba is gone. That is the meaning of mahaprayan – Guru is no more.

Such an approach seriously threatens our very existence.

That is why even ritualistic Hindus never ever practice the mahaprayan of Lord Shiva or Lord Krsna – because they know well that this would spell the end of their religion, of their civilisation.

Those who advocate mahaprayan plainly tell, directly and indirectly, that Baba is gone forever with the declaration of their dogmatic mahaprayan program.

Such leaders verily remove one of the integral six spokes out of our Ananda Marga society. By taking away the Preceptor – by declaring that Baba is gone with their dogmatic mahaprayan program – they are undermining the very essence of Ananda Marga and threatening its survival.

Devotional and rational-minded margiis and acaryas can never accept such a dogmatic edict; they will never ever accept the dogma of mahaprayan in their heart.

That is why it is sure that our Ananda Marga will last forever; and that is why the dogma of mahaprayan is short-lived. It started in 1990 and has been waning ever since and soon it will be gone entirely. Rational margiis and wts will make the proper ideological stand, by His grace.

“ANANDA MARGA AMAR HAI” – ANANDA MARGA IS ETERNAL

All the six spokes are alive and well in our Ananda Marga and that is why our Marga will lead humanity up to eternity. Our Marga will live on and on, so long as we safeguard each of the six spokes of the social cycle, including that of Preceptor.

“There is no power in the universe, in the heaven or in the underworld, which can annihilate Ananda Marga, because Ananda Marga is established on the solid foundation of rationality and righteousness.” (11)

“A’nanda Ma’rga is that path of progress, and that is why A’nanda Ma’rga is the only alternative for the preservation of human existence and civilization.” (12)

“Ananda Marga Amar Hai – Ananda Marga is eternal!

MAHAPRAYAN:

DETRIMENTAL TO SURVIVAL

It is very evident however that the dogmatic mahaprayan function severely violates the six spokes of the social cycle, as it goes against the point of ‘Preceptor’. For any society to survive there must be the presence of a Preceptor, yet so-called mahaprayan proclaims that Baba is gone. That is why the dogma of mahaprayan is so detrimental to the survival of Ananda Marga.

So long as we adhere to our Ananda Marga dharma, and maintain the integrity of each of the six spokes of the social cycle, then our Ananda Marga will guide the society up through the ages. Regarding this, there is not an iota of doubt.

Baba says, “A’nanda Ma’rga is that path of progress, and that is why A’nanda Ma’rga is the only alternative for the preservation of human existence and civilization.” (13)

For any society to sustain itself, these six factors must be proper. And Baba has placed all six in our Ananda Marga society, including that of Preceptor; thus we should not let any dogma like mahaprayan – which declares that the Preceptor (Baba) is gone – undermine the very survival our AM civilisation.

Here the point is that when any of the six points becomes weak then it slowly, slowly causes the disintegration of that society like a cancer. It has happened in the past and it will happen in the future – if one is not careful.

Namaskar,
In His love,
Jitendra

REFERENCES:
1. Namami Krsna Sundaram, Disc: 26
2. A Few Problems Solved – 6, The Future of Civilization
3. Subhasita Samgraha – 12
4. Prout Nutshell – 17
5. Prout in a Nutshell – 11
6. Tattva Kaomudii – 2, ‘Our Social Treatise’
7. Prout in a Nutshell – 17
8. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell – 4
9. Namami Krsnasundaram, Disc: 7
10. Caryacarya – 2
11. A Few Problems Solved – 4
12. Tattva Kaomudii – 1
13. Tattva Kaomudii – 1

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.

*******************************
Kettle Drum Is Not Sentient Kiirtan

How Kiirtan Controls the Mind

Baba says, “It is advisable to play some instrument during kiirtana. A mrdanga [a kind of drum] or some similar instrument should be used , but one should not play any heavysounding instrument like a dhak [a large drum played with sticks], a dol [a loud drum] or a gong. The mind prefers to hear a sweet sound, like that of the mrdanga, than a harsh sound. Some time ago I mentioned that Bhola Mayra said that when the cawing 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 mrdanga may not be perfect, but it has one quality: it is very sweet. Thus, whenever a distracted mind hears the sweet music of a mrdanga, it returns to the proper place. A remarkable science lies in kiirtana.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 8, p. 13-14)

Note: Here are two points regarding Baba’s above teaching:

(a) During kiirtan, the mind becomes sentient and does not appreciate rajasik sounds.

(b) During kiirtan, sometimes many indriyas are involved: The mouth, ears, hands, feet, nose, eyes, and tongue. When the indriyas are involved in this way, they help keep the mind focused and bring the mind back when it runs away. Here is the philosophical and practical explanation.

In general, the mind runs towards external physicality via the indriyas, i.e. 10 motor and sensory organs. So when those indriyas are fully involved in a spiritual endeavour like kiirtan, then the mind is forced to engage in kiirtan via one or another organ.

The mind always wants to run – either by thinking a disparate thought or by stimulus received via the organs. As Baba explains above, when the organs are positively involved in a devotional practice like kiirtan, then if the mind wanders away from the kiirtan those organs will help bring the mind back to a spiritual flow.

For instance, let’s say someone doing kiirtan starts thinking about the market and what they will purchase there. Yet when the sweet sound of the mrdangam is received via the senory organs, i.e. the ears, then that sound will bring the mind back the devotional ideation of the kiirtan.

The mind can think any stray thought at any time but if the indriyas are engaged in a spiritual manner, then that will help bring the mind back. That is the special import of singing and dancing kiirtan, along with the sounds of the mrdangam and other sentient musical instruments.
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Misuse & Abuse of Public Funds #2

Date: Fri 22 Feb 2013 13:03:36
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Lokesh@spiral…..
Subject: Misuse & Abuse of Public Funds #2

== MISUSE & ABUSE OF PUBLIC FUNDS ==

~ Part 2 ~

(Note: This is the second letter in this series. A link to the first letter titled – “Big Questions About World Events” – has been appended below. All italicised sections in brown are quotes from the first letter. – Eds)

Namaskar,
The unfortunate trend is that the wealthy and the powerful leaders use public money for their own gain, at the expense of the well-being of the poor and suffering people. This problem is acutely evidenced during the planning & preparation of certain events like the Olympics etc. Such planners feel entitled to use the money in a way that suits them best, and utterly overlook the needs of the local, impoverished populace.

WEALTH OF ENTIRE UNIVERSE IS PROPERTY OF PARAMA PURUSA

Our Proutistic outlook is entirely different. Baba guides us that Parama Purusa – not any unit being – is the owner of all mundane wealth.

“The universe is the thought projection of Brahma [the Supreme Entity], so the ownership of the universe lies with the Supreme Entity, and not with His imagined beings. None of the movable or immovable property of this universe belongs to any particular individual; everything is the common patrimony of all, and the Father of all is Brahma.” (1)

In that case, where is there scope for the misuse of public funds in pursuit of self or group interest. There is none. Only materialists can indulge in this way.

MORE ABOUT THE PRESENT SITUATION

“At present, Brazil is gearing up to host both the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics, both of which will be hosted in Rio. At minimum, estimates are that Brasil will spend nearly $35 billion to host these two events…While all these tens of billions of dollars are spent on these sporting venues, not less than 25% of Rio’s population, or 1.5 million people, are suffering and live without the basic necessities. The million-plus residents of Rio de Janeiro’s shantytowns (favelas) still find their lives controlled by violent drug gangs and that the crime rate in Rio ranks among the highest in the world, and many of them will be uprooted and relocated before 2014. Their lives will not improve an ounce due to the spending of $35 billion, just they will be forgotten.”

DISTINCT LACK OF FAMILY FEELING

Those who advocate the construction of extravagant new sports stadiums for the Olympics or the World Cup etc proclaim that life is not just about food, clothing, and shelter, but entertainment and amusement as well. For this reason, they feel it acceptable to spend massive amounts of public money on Olympic stadiums despite the presence of widespread poverty in that host nation.

The following analogy sheds light on this matter.

Suppose a child is sick, lacks food and medical treatment, and is living in a house that has a leaky roof, yet his parents are spending all their money on films, dancing, drugs, and night clubs, and there is no food or medicine for the child. In that case, who is going to be sympathetic to those parents? No one.

Similarly, we have to reconsider the ethic of those who build stadiums at tremendous public expense while much of the local population suffers and lacks the minimum requirements of life: food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and education.

Such persons do not look upon the entire population as their own. They suffer from a narrow-minded and selfish outlook, i.e. atma sukha tattva, or principle of selfish pleasure. They are involved in gratifying their own unit self, not thinking about others.

Proponents of the extravagant stadiums suffer from atma sukha tattva. Blinded by their own selfish vision, the wealthy leaders of society fail to see the pain experienced by common people who struggle for their daily needs. In turn, those wealthy leaders exploit the masses by adhering to their own selfish agenda. That is what we see happening in nations hosting the Olympics and World Cup etc. If those wealthier, empowered leaders were infused with sama samaj tattva (principle of social equality), then their priority would first be meeting the basic needs of the common people. Once accomplished, one could discuss other projects like stadium construction etc.

In that case, the issue of exploitation and suffering would not arise. Then those with means would help those in need and not indulge in their own selfish gratification.

Here the point is that only those with a very narrow and selfish outlook can think that vast amounts of public monies should be used for fancy stadiums for the Olympics etc, when large numbers of people in that country are starving and living in unsanitary conditions. In contrast, if one cultivates the ideal that this whole humanity is my kith and kin, then there will be no scope to waste money on extravagant sporting venues while naked children in that country beg for food and lack drinking water.

Please bear in mind that I am fond of sports and encourage participation and healthy competition in sporting endeavours. What I am not in favour of is extravagant spending on superfluous projects when brothers and sisters are suffering from lack of essential needs: Food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and education. As we all know, this goes directly against the approach of Ananda Marga.

Only when the minimum requirements have been provided to all can we then think to invest in sports stadiums.

WHY MISUSE OF PUBLIC FUNDS

Another cause behind the misuse of public funds is over-accumulation of physical pabula. There are some in society that have so much money that they literally do not know how to spend it – they just indulge in misuse. They pay extraordinary sums of money for clothing, intoxicants, x-tra fancy airplanes, huge number of cars, and in other frivolous and degrading ways. When in their own private life they are accustomed to the misuse of money, then they casually apply that same approach to public money. Because of their extreme over-accumulation of money, they do not know how to use money in a rational manner for social good.

IT IS A RECURRING THEME…

…PROUT IS NEEDED

So this is a recurring theme. Time and again, those in power spend huge amounts of public money on structures that will supposedly bring them prestige and fame, and the common people lay impoverished. So many extravagant structures were constructed at the expense and well-being of the public good. Such buildings include the Taj Mahal etc. Misusing public funds in this way invites crime, social unrest, and chaos. All because the state forces people into a situation of being have-nots.

When a nation indulges in constructing extravagant stadiums to impress others – while their own denizens lack the basic necessities – then that is just a superficial show. It is tinsel – nothing more. They have no substantial good to portray.

The only answer is Prout. Only the practical approach of Prout takes into consideration the welfare of the common people and encourages the rational distribution of public resources. Big money decisions based on a leader’s prestige will never get support in a Proutistic system.

Our policies are for the welfare of the people and Proutistic leaders are linked with the heart-beat of the masses. The torchbearers of Prout are not living in golden castles, aloof from the worries and needs of the general populace.

Prout Philosophy says, “The Proutistic social order follows the principle sarva jana hita’ya – that is, PROUT is for the welfare of all. Nobody is suppressed or oppressed. PROUT supports the rule of sadvipras. Only sadvipras can guarantee the all-round welfare of all groups of people because sadvipras represent the interests of all classes in society.” (2)

FINANCIAL REGULATIONS NEEDED

In both Caraycarya part 2 and “A Guide to Human Conduct”, Baba has given the strict guideline that individuals and families are not to go into debt to host social functions like marriages, baby-naming ceremonies, and festivals etc. That same type of approach should be taken with nations and international bodies. Host cities and nations of the Olympics regularly go deep into debt and often never recover, as happened with the 2004 games in Athens, Greece etc. So there should be strict regulations and guidelines about this.

I appreciate the solution offered in the prior letter:

“Various international organisations like the United Nations etc do not build new offices every time they hold a meeting. Rather they return to the same venue again and again. The same should be done with the Olympics. There can be 4 fixed sites around the globe. The Olympics can simply rotate through those 4 venues, returning to the same site every 16 years. That way each facility can be of a premium standard and well-maintained. An international board will manage the sites and distribute profits to all nations. During “off years” when the Olympics is not being held at a particular site then that location can be used for the Asia games or other competitions. This will bring regular use and income to each site. It will not be like the way things are now where an entire Olympic sporting complex is built for the Olympics, only to sit unused and fall into disrepair as soon as the games are over.”

PROUT POLICY:

SUPPORT COMMON PEOPLE;

DO NOT ALLOW PUBLIC FUNDS TO BE CONTROLLED BY CENTRAL GOVT

While we are in this transition phase of the height of the vaeshyan era, particular attention must be paid to those impoverished people. That is our Prout policy

In those lands where the World Cup and Olympics are held, and in those lands where huge airports are built and fancy rails are put in place for the wealthy, there are millions and millions of people living below the poverty level. They are overlooked by their governments and ignored by the educated elite. This must be corrected – the course must be changed. The way to proceed starts with the health, safety and welfare of the downtrodden masses. Failing that we will continue to see so many fall prey to starvation, neglect, and premature death. And a proper society will never be built.

Along these lines our Proutistic teachings put forth this following warning:

“It is desirable that the management of industrial, agricultural, trade and commercial enterprises not be in the hands of the central government or the world government (after the establishment of the world government). If it is, the common people will not get the direct or even the indirect opportunity to participate in the management of these enterprises. In such cases capitalists, opportunists or self-seeking politicians can easily take control of them and misappropriate public wealth.” (3)

THE SOLUTION IS PROUT

Baba has blessed us with all the resources and the right philosophy (i.e. Prout) to ease the pains of humanity. We are to act fast and protest the wrongs being carried out at present wherein huge monies are misused and wasted by the state for lavish events like the Olympics etc, while the people of that land lack even the most basic necessities to survive. There is growing awareness about this tragic issue – good people everywhere want to help – we should keep the flame alive and bring welfare to the people.

THE TEACHINGS OF PROUT:

WHAT ARE THE MARVELS OF CIVILIZATION FOR, IF PEOPLE ARE PREVENTED FROM MANIFESTING THEMSELVES

“To sadvipras [spiritual revolutionaries] the value of human life surpasses all other values. So states and scriptures, societies and religions, acquire significance only insofar as they develop humanity to the maximum through learning, culture, physical health and economic plenty. It is for the sake of developing humanity that civilization has so many institutions of different kinds, that states take their various forms, that theories proliferate, and that the scriptures abound in ordinances and regulations. What in the world does the state stand for, what is the use of all these regulations, and what are the marvels of civilization for, if people are prevented from manifesting themselves, if they do not get the opportunity to build good physiques, to invigorate their intelligence with knowledge, or to broaden their hearts with love and compassion? If, instead of tending to lead human beings to the goal of life, the state stands in the way, it cannot command loyalty, because humanity is superior to the state. According to Rabindranath Tagore, “Justice and law at the cost of humanity is like a stone instead of bread. Maybe that stone is rare and valuable, but it cannot remove hunger.”” (4)

“HUMAN VALUE TAKES PRECEDENCE OVER SOCIAL VALUE”

“It is customary to give preference to social value over human value. Sadvipras want to strike at the root of this custom. For them, human value takes precedence over social value. Human beings form the society, and hence human value must lay the foundation for the social value. In other words, those who show respect to human value will be entitled to social value. It was mentioned earlier that human value means nothing but to treat the joys and sorrows, hopes and aspirations of human beings sympathetically, and see them merged in Cosmic Consciousness and established in divine majesty. And if one is to elevate oneself to that sublime height, he or she will have to be supplied with an environment suitable to his or her physical, mental and spiritual existence. It is the birthright of everyone to make headway in their trifarious existence. It is the duty of society to accord recognition to this human right. Society has failed to do its duty, and that is why life is full of sorrow and suffering.” (4)

A GOOD NUMBER OF GREAT PERSONALITIES ARE WITHERING AWAY IN THEIR EMBRYONIC STAGE

“No one can say for certain that no great person might have emerged from among those wayward urchins whom we are wont to slight and hate. Women who have turned to prostitution for the sake of their physical existence might have grown into noble personalities if their agony had been appreciated sympathetically, and if they had been rehabilitated by society. But since society has nothing to do with human value, a good number of great personalities are withering away in their embryonic stage. The sadvipras will undertake to revive this neglected section of humanity. To them no sinner is contemptible, no one is a rogue. People turn into satans or sinners when, for want of proper guidance, they are goaded by depraving propensities. The human mind goaded by depraving propensities is satan. If their propensities are sublimated, they will no longer be satans; they will be transformed into gods. Every course of action of society ought to be judged with an eye to the dictum “Human beings are divine children.”” (4)

WE SHOULD NOT JUST GO AHEAD AND LEAVE THEM IN THE LURCH

“The significance of society lies in moving together. If in the course of the journey anybody lags behind, if in the darkness of night a gust of wind blows out anyone’s lamp, we should not just go ahead and leave them in the lurch. We should extend a hand to help them up, and rekindle their lamps with the flames of our lamps…”

“…Stop we must, otherwise the spirit of society is in jeopardy.”

“A rśi [sage] has said: Samamantreńa jáyate iti samájah [“Society is the collective movement of a group of individuals who have decided to move together towards a common goal”]. That is, whether people are pápii [sinners], thieves, criminals, or characterless individuals, they are so only superficially; internally they are filled with the potential for purity. The principal object of the sadvipras is to explore and bring this potentiality into play. They will accord human value to everyone without exception. Those who have done hateful crimes must be punished, but sadvipras will never hate them, or put an end to them by depriving them of food, because sadvipras are humanists. The pandits puffed up with vain glory could turn their attention to their books instead of attending on the ailing non-Hindu Haridas, but Chaitanya Mahaprabhu found it impossible to remain indifferent to him. He took Haridas in his arms and nursed him carefully, and thus showed respect to human value.” (4)

MORE PROUTISTIC GUIDELINES

“That is, these days, a person who possesses wealth is respected and revered whereas a person without money is a person honoured by none. The poor, whoever they may be, have to woo the rich just for the sake of earning their livelihood. Human values have become meaningless, for human beings have become the means for the rich to earn money. The rich, having purchased the human mind with their money, are busy playing a game of chess with the other members of society. Bereft of everything, people toil round the clock to earn a mere pittance. Today the motto of people is, “I have to send some food particles into the apathetic stomach after somehow taking a dip in the muddy water amidst hyacinths.”” (5)

“Those who are at the helm of society, constantly suspicious of others, forever count their losses and profits. They have no desire to think about the plight of humanity. Rather, to gratify themselves they are ready to chew the human bone, and suck human blood. For the self-centred there is no place for feelings of mercy, sympathy or camaraderie. The railway stations and market places are full of half-clad beggars and lepers desperately stretching out their begging bowls, earning their livelihood in the only way they know. They are fortunate if anyone contemptuously flings them a copper coin. The old blind beggars sitting all day long on the steps of a bridge automatically lift their bowls whenever anyone walks past. But their hungry pleas fall on deaf ears. On the other side of the social coin, sumptuous dishes are being prepared to entertain the rich dignitaries. These contrasts ridicule the present human society.” (6)

“Today, those who occupy high posts are also respected. Dignity is attached to post or rank. A station master will take great pains to prepare the railway minister’s visit, but will never trouble himself with the inconveniences faced by the ordinary passengers. Luxurious houses are built for high-ranking officers while the poor live in shanty towns, barely protected from the elements. I don’t say that large houses should never be built, but that everyone should be provided the minimum requirements. “I admit that both rice and tasty dishes are necessary for people, but I shall not demand a sumptuous dish from the goddess of food until I see that India has been overflooded with an abundance of rice.”” (7)

“These days educated people are so proud of their erudition that they detest illiterate people and avoid the company of commoners. Thus they shun village life and live in towns. When the question of returning to the village crops up, they say, “What on earth would we do in a village? There’s not a single person to talk to. Only idiots live there.” This explains why almost all attention is focused on the urban areas to the detriment of the villages. While soliciting votes, political leaders pay a short visit to the villages with a mouthful of attractive promises. They promptly inform the ignorant populace about their great achievements in constructing huge dams; though perhaps village cultivation is becoming impossible due to want of irrigation. They give detailed descriptions about their plans to build bridges and bungalows and install television sets, though perhaps in that village people die for want of medicine, or beg for food in poverty-stricken desperation. And yet the common villagers constitute the backbone of society. Even in the towns not everyone gets equal opportunities. The pavements have become the home for so many people. Rabindranath says, “There are always a number of uncelebrated people in the human civilization. They are the majority, and they are the medium, but they have no time to become human beings. They are raised on the leftovers of the national wealth. They are poorly dressed and receive little education, yet they serve the rest of society. They give maximum labour but are rewarded with ignominy – they die of starvation or are tortured to death by those they serve. They are deprived of all life’s amenities. They are the candlestick of civilization: they stand erect with the candle resting on their head. Everyone gets light from it, while they suffer the discomfort of the wax trickling down their sides. In this way, the dishonest of humanity or the neglect of human values has become a social malady.””(8)

SUMMARY STATEMENT AND REVIEW

Here in review: The point is that only those with a very narrow and selfish outlook can think that vast amounts of public monies should be used for fancy stadiums for the Olympics etc, when large numbers of people in that country are starving and living in unsanitary conditions. In contrast, if one cultivates the ideal that this whole humanity is my kith and kin, then there will be no scope to waste money on extravagant sporting venues while naked children in that country beg for food and lack drinking water.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Lokesh

Note 1: FINAL THOUGHT

As mentioned above, I am not against games and sports, only my concern is the commercialisation thereof. In the US, obesity is rampant, and games and sports are highly commercialised. The unfortunate result is that people think they should watch, not play. Yet real use of games and sports is for keeping a population healthy, active, and vibrant, but in the US and other nations that tenant has sadly been lost.

Note 2: COMMENTS FROM COMMON PEOPLE ABOUT THE OLYMPICS

The following comments are from this website: http://www.debate.org/opinions/are-the-olympic-games-a-waste-of-money

– I believe that the Olympic Games are a waste of money because there are more important things that the money used for these events could be spent on. If we stopped the Olympic Games, a lot of extra money could be donated to child hunger, cancer cures, and child hospitals. Think about the people in third world countries, starving and living without shelter. All charities ask for a small amount of money, yet countries spend millions on a sporting event. The Olympic Games boost economies and also boost pollution at the same time! We are trying our best to stop global warming and this is NOT helping! The native animals of each country loose their habitat to just a stupid car park or an expensive stadium. This can ruin the food chain. The Olympic Games just puts everyone against each other and puts hatred between each country.

– It’s a ridiculous waste of money for a 3 week sporting event – all because of the need to compete against other countries and win some medals!! Feed the poor, educate the masses, give the money to worthwhile needy charities!

– The Olympics are a waste of money

The money spent by countries on international sporting events, such as the Olympic game and World championships, is money wasted. It should be used for more important things such as curing malaria in LEDCs, improving infrastructure, and providing proper education for the adults and children from poorer countries.Billions of pounds are spent on these events just to watch people throwing javelins and shot putts around when it could be donated to charities so they could at least make a difference to this world by helping the people.

-Priorities

The Olympics represents a criminal diversion of funds away from the kind of projects and policies which would actually effect improvements in the health of the population. Merely claiming that ‘striving’ for the best compensates the masses who are paid off with a few weeks of sports saturated T.V. is not where public money is best sent. Society, as a whole, has greater, and certainly, more pressing needs. Hunger, poverty, ignorance etc. I do not propose aid to have succeeded when applied to foreign lands, however when spent domestically it can reap huge rewards.

– The Olympic Games are a waste of money!

If we stopped the Olympic Games, a lot of extra money could be donated to child hunger, cancer cures, charities, and child hospitals. Think about the people in third world countries, starving and living without shelter. All charities ask for a small amount of money, yet we spend millions on a sporting event. Athletes may get publicity, but aren’t human lives more important?

We are trying our best to stop global warming and this is NOT helping! The native animals of each country loose their habitat to just a stupid car park or an expensive stadium. This can ruin the food chain. The Olympic Games just puts everyone against each other and puts hatred between each country.

– of course it is

It is kind on stupid to have the olympics in the first place. They are a waste of money and very much a waste of time. Who cares if you win a gold medal in swimming or some other sport. That does not prove you are the greatest athlete in the world.

-of course it is a waste of money!

all you really need is a track to run a pool to swim a court to hit and a field to ride it doesnt have to big cant you just agree with me and give this money to the people who need it and inspiring someone this is like WE ARE SHOWING OFF how much money we can spend

– Pakistan and Afghanistan practice a pates but still want to kill loads of people.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are lead by the group of people – the Taliban who smashed the twin towers yet they compete in the Olympics. They destroyed Bali, yet they compete in the Olympics. It doesn’t provide friendly competition because their are still wars going on across the world yet almost every country competes even though they create wars. They don’t allow friendly competition so I conclude that it is a waste of money because it can’t provide friendly competition.

– The money can be use for other reasons.

The millions of dollars used building the facilities of the Olympic games should be used to give to the poor in Africa. Only when all the poor people have enough money to have a healthy lifestyle should we even think of spending millions of dollars building massive facilities that we don’t need.

– Olympic games are a waste of money!!!

Facts clearly state that where ever the Olympics were held; the country had to spend a big sum of money on advancements. A clear example is the recent London 2012 Olympics where Britain earned millions of USD through people who had a craze for watching this game. I mean the making of the movie in which the Queen jumps it had a a cost too, which included graphic designing etc.

– Yes

Because what about the poor people in Africa, Why think about money all time. What about people they have feelings (Naduh) but why think about money all the time when you can give to poor people instead of Having the money all by yourself when you earn enough already? Seriously what about people?

– Yes, believe the Olympic Games are a waste of money, this money could be spent on much better things.

I believe that the Olympic Games are a waste of money because there are more important things that the money used for these events could be spent on. There are starving kids who could eat if the money was given to them instead. There are also natural disasters that could be better controlled if there was more funding for them.

– There are so many other things we could spend money on!!!

I understand that there is a strong sentiment which surrounds the Olympic games, and it’s not that I have anything against them in and of themselves, but I think the amount of ceremony, media hype, and flare which is used is certainly excessive. Instead of using that money to further lavish the leaders of the globe and create a spectacle, we could be using these resources to SOLVE PROBLEMS!!!!

– Not the only competition

The games have put more than one economy in debt; one need not look further than Greece’s current state. Also, this is not the only forum for athletes to get together. There is also the pan-am games, the commonwealth games, and the world cup. The billions spent on the Olympics are just thrown away, and could be given to much worthier causes.

– Recall way back to 1972, and Colorado had been chosen for the ’76 winter games. We voters took the initiative on a state-wide ballot and voted by a good margin to deny the use of any public funds for the Olympics. It only took days to withdraw, and the IOC moved the ’76 winter games to Austria.What happened is that Colorado got a black eye in the world press (no big deal), and also a national reputation for being green, clean, low tax, frugal and smart. People and hi-tech firms moved to the state in larger numbers than ever, and our economy has been doing fine ever since.

– My rule of thumb: whenever a sports stadium or arena is touted as the centrepiece of a city’s long-term prosperity (as opposed to the prosperity of the developers, construction firms, and various cronies and hangers-on), it’s a grift. The IOC and local committees are no different in this regard than are major-league team owners.Spending taxpayer and/or private dollars on urban infrastructure is great, but that can be done without spending billions of extra dollars on short-term events and soon-to-be under-used facilities

– The Olympics is one big rip-off.

It’s all about making money, money, money for a few big companies and assorted Fat Cats.

£350 per household in the UK? With all the cuts you’re suffering? You’ve been ripped off.

– The Olympics are very much a second prize in today’s world. It can and probably will saddle us with huge debts ala Montreal and do little, if anything for anywhere outside of London. The World Cup is the biggie and we came NOWHERE in the run off for that blockbuster which would at least have spread the money around the country instead of centralising it in London. The attitude of people from the Midlands Northwards is, its London’s, nothing to do with us, we won’t benefit but we will be told to pay for it. At the end of the day the Government refused point-blank to consider bids from other cities.Stick them where the sun doesn’t shine.

– Have been to Montreal and the Olympic village is like a strange ghost town, apparently it took Montreal almost two decades to pay off the debt left from it’s olympics. British Columbia is left with a big sales tax after the Vancouver winter olympics and is saddled with debt.

– I think we ought to build a permenant olympics site somewhere for re use every 4 years so we don’t waste time, money and resources building these big nationalistic monuments

– The Olympics is a waste of money. The current bill is £3.3B, but apparently we can afford this whilst we make 100,000s redundant and stop spending money on the NHS.

– It’s a classic example of ignoring the real problems in the country and going for a project that only caters for 1/3rd of the population – if that – of the UK.

http://www.sailpay.com/blog/hosting-the-olympics-is-a-waste-of-money-read-these-lessons-from-greece-and-china-to-avoid-similar-investment-mistakes/

– The Olympic Games could have been made less extravagant and millions could have been saved to help the needy. Indeed, watching this spectacular event unleashing is like living a real boost of emotion.But then, is the feeling of these temporary emotions more prominent than the health of a human being ? We all know it isn’t yet we keep on hosting it. It is sad therefore to realise that mankind has adopted an egocentric culture.

– Athens Olympics Venues In Decay 8 Years After 2004 Games (PHOTOS)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/03/athens-olympics-venues-photos-abandoned_n_1739264.html

There’s still one group that loves the training pool for athletes at the former Olympic village in Athens’ northern fringe. Frogs.

They appear to delight in sitting on debris that floats on the half-filled pool’s murky waters.

The athletes village itself has fared somewhat better, turned into housing for workers.

Eight years after the 2004 Athens Games, many of the Olympic venues Greece built at great expense remain abandoned or rarely used. They are the focus of great public anger as the country struggles through a fifth year of recession and nearly three years of a debt crisis that has seen a surge in poverty and unemployment.

At the southern Athens venue for softball – a sport unknown in Greece and already out of the Summer Olympics – the occasional weed is all that remains on the dried-out field.

With no shortage of real beaches in Greece, the purpose-built beach volleyball stadium has seen minimal use in the past eight years, mostly just concerts.

Other Athens venues have fared better. The badminton hall has been converted into a popular theater venue, the former international Olympic broadcast center is a shopping mall and what was the main press center now houses ministry offices.

The old baseball venue has been used for the past two years by a fourth-division local soccer club – although some of the stands could do with a lick of paint.

The hockey venue hosted the Special Olympics last year, but material used in that event still lies abandoned around the rim.

The taekwondo and handball arena is occasionally used for non-sports events.

The main Athens Olympics complex is now mostly open to the public and its sporting venues are used by local teams or to host national championships.

Greek politicians, meanwhile, are still struggling to deal with those years of excess spending, and many economists still question the country’s future in the 17-nation common euro currency.

Note 3: LINK TO PRIOR LETTER ON THIS TOPIC

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2013/01/big-questions-about-world-events.html

REFERENCES:
1. Problems of the Day, pt #1
2. Prout in A Nutshell – 15
3. Problems of the Day, #11
4 – 8. A Few Problems Solved Part 2, Social Values and Human Cardinal Principles

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Baba Story & Many More Things

Baba

This entire email is composed of 4 parts:
(1) Prabhat Samgiita #1389;
(2) Posting: Weapon to Bring Revolution;
(3) Posting: Baba Story – Blissful Days in Piskamor Office;
(4) Trailer Quote: Well Irrigation Is Disastrous.

Each section is demarcated by asterisks (*).

To: AM-GLOBAL
Date: Sat, 09 Feb 2013 22:38:04 +0000

Baba

“A’loker va’n baha’ye diyecho, a’ndha’r marute pra’n’ ja’gayecho…” P.S. 1389

Purport:

Baba, O’ Divine Entity, You have brought the flood of divine effulgence; You have given new life to the dark dry desert. Those hearts which could not bloom, now, by Your grace, they are blooming. You have filled those hearts, which were dry and barren, with Your love; they have started thinking & ideating in a devotional way. Baba, victory is Yours, victory is Yours. O’ my Lord, O’ Prabhu, victory is always Yours.

Baba, You have granted the prana of life to the stream that was lost in the burning desert, and to the flower bud which fell down and became one with the dust. That also was given life again by Your causeless grace. You also granted life to those green flower buds green and made them full of fragrance. You have showered them with Your causeless grace. Baba, nobody can understand Your liila.

O’ Supreme Being, You have healed the intellect that was battered by a host of obstacles. The rehearsed melody which was suppressed by the blow of crudeness, You filled that melody with the music of the seven notes, with the sweet soft touch of Your divine hands. In this way, the musical octave came onto this earth. Baba, it is Your grace You have brought music on this earth.

O’ Parama Purusa, O’ Baba, You have brought the flood of divine effulgence; You have given new life. O’ Lord, I surrender at Your lotus feet…

**** End of Prabhat Samgiita and start of the first letter ****

== WEAPON TO BRING REVOLUTION ==

Namaskar,
When Baba gave Prout He also detailed that our own Ananda Marga media outlets must be developed. At first, some margiis felt overwhelmed, even confused, thinking that this was beyond their means and abilities. But soon enough, with Baba’s pressure and grace, we had our own Prout newspapers and soundboards. Via this experience, all got the teaching that to propagate any new idea having mass media outlets is a must.

Whenever Baba would arrive in any unit or locale, then He would often insist on reading our local Prout newspaper or magazine before taking food. Only after reading our own periodicals, He would read the local or national newspaper.

Baba did all this to practically show us how important it was to have our own independent news outlets and be aware about what is happening with the media.

Today, every margii knows that we must have our own Prout journals, websites, films, talk shows, and printed media etc. Only by this way can we get our message out to the common people. This must be our approach in Ananda Marga.

PEOPLE GET DUPED BY CAPITALISTS’ MANIPULATED MEDIA

Baba’s overall guideline about the mass media is quite straightforward.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Radio, television, films and other media must be free from exploitation and vested interests. (1)

By the talk on the street in democratic states where they tout freedom of the press, one would be led to believe that the press is categorically free – neither purchased nor affected by the ruling vaeshyas. This is what one is “told” & “taught”, but even in places like the US, the media is tightly run by capitalist enterprises. On the outside everything looks glossy and free, but it is not.

Baba says, “In liberal democracies, capitalists manipulate the mass media such as the radio, television and newspapers.” (2)

The sad thing is that the general public is not aware about this. They innocently rely on the media thinking they are getting the truth. They do not realise that the media is in the hands of capitalist interest groups. In that case, the people are bound to be duped and manipulated.

Baba says, “Demons in human framework – are really responsible. They come to the world and leave it in great ruins. During their lifetime, they fully utilize all the mass media. The common people become confused and cannot think beyond that which the mass media tell them. It is a general weakness of common people that they are inclined to believe whatever is printed in books and journals.” (3)

INSTEAD OF WRITING THE TRUTH, JOURNALISTS TURN DAY INTO NIGHT AND NIGHT INTO DAY

ACCORDING TO THE WISHES OF PROFITEERING CAPITALISTS

Here Baba explains how the media just becomes the mouthpiece of top vaeshyaas.

“The economic exploitation of the vaeshyas relegates the vipras to the level of intellectual satans, and the money of the vaeshyas controls the brains of those satans. In the Vaeshya Age intellectual progress occurs on many levels: new inventions are brought forth, new types of deadly weapon are invented, and people learn how to produce many types of commodity to increase comfort. Many people believe that these things are creations of the Vipra Age, but actually they are expressions of the Vaeshya Age. The vipras who sell themselves to the vaeshyas for money produce such items at their behest.”
“A deep analysis reveals that many of those whose creative and inventive ability once commanded the respect of innumerable people, become dependent upon the mercy of the vaeshyas for their food and clothing. Poets and [[authors]] write according to the dictates of their vaeshya publishers or in the hope of winning prizes from the vaeshya-controlled governments. Artists wield their brushes according to the demands of the market, or are compelled to produce commercial art, neglecting more subtle art forms in the process. Instead of writing the truth, journalists turn day into night and night into day according to the wishes of profiteering newspaper publishers because they are afraid of losing their jobs. They go against their own consciences and pervert the truth in order to help unworthy people become leaders. They create spectacular lies with their pens.” (4)

CONSCIOUSNESS RAISING:

ENSURE MASSES ARE CONSCIOUS ABOUT BEING EXPLOITED

Next, Baba poignantly alerts us that without first raising the awareness and standard of the masses, it is useless to try and mobilise into a revolutionary movement. First through our media outlets and pracara programs they should be taught how they are being exploited. Without that, they will never understand how or when to come forward.

“Before launching any movement, you should make sure that the masses are conscious of their exploitation, otherwise the movement will not be successful. Although it may take some time to raise the consciousness of the masses, ultimately you will be victorious.”
“A leader of the Maethilii community in Bihar wanted to start a movement against the exploitation of the Maethilii language, so he organized a massive rally and started to lecture the people about the suppression of Maethilii. Initially, everyone listened to him attentively and supported his ideas. At the end of his address he told the masses: “We will live for Maethilii, we will die for Maethilii.” But one person amongst the crowd shouted out: “Yes, we will live for Maethilii, but why should we die for Maethilii? Rather, I choose to die in Kashi.” According to mythology, if one dies in Kashi one goes to heaven. Immediately all the people started supporting this view, and as a result the meeting was disturbed. This happened because the people were not conscious of the suppression of their mother tongue, and they followed the path of religious dogma instead.” (5)

BABA’S WARNING

Here again is a final warning by Baba about the dangers of letting the media fall into the hands of the exploiters.

Baba says, “Psycho-economic exploitation is the latest form of dangerous and all-devouring capitalist exploitation. It is a special type of exploitation which first weakens and paralyses people psychologically in various ways, and then exploits them economically…placing the control of different mass media, such as newspapers, radio and television, in the hands of capitalists.” (6)

RELATED TEACHINGS

“Create a great social consciousness…In all spheres of human existence…humanity should live collectively. You should live in unison. You should vibrate together to the same music. You should move in a common psychic flow. You should fight collectively against your common enemies. Unitedly you should face all problems, mundane and supra-mundane. In a word, you must reflect the spirit of harmonious collective living in conformity with the spirit of the Vedic mantra Samgacchadhvam sam’vadadhvam.” (7)

“Without arousing social consciousness, it is next to impossible to bring about social welfare.” (8)

“Revolution may not take place unless the exploited masses are psychologically prepared for revolution. If the people do not support revolution, the clarion call for revolution will not be heeded.” (9)

“In order to save humanity from economic exploitation (whether politico-economic or psycho-economic), you must raise the people’s consciousness, otherwise they will never be able to successfully resist psycho-economic or politico-economic exploitation.” (10)

THE DAY IS NOT FAR WHEN…

Baba has given the proper technique for doing AM pracar: Media controlled and run by sadvipras.

As we know, Baba has graciously come on this earth and given Ananda Marga, neo-humanism and Prout and so many dharmic teachings. It is our duty to inform and awaken the people through our own Ananda Marga media outlets. Otherwise the message will not be delivered. To bring revolution the main weapon is the right use of media. Not only that, to do anything in any sphere of life, a proper media channel is needed. Without that, one will never get success.

In democracy, capitalists run the media; in communism the state controls the media, in totalitarian or theocratic regimes, the ruling dogmatic heads control the media. Exploiters know that to keep control having the media in their pocket is a must.

The day is not far when the revolutionary ways of Proutists will deliver the right message to the people. Once educated and mobilised, the people will have the requisite knowledge and courage to stand up and fight for justice in all the spheres of life.

It is our duty to empower the people with the right ideas via our media outlets.

Baba says, We are near the last stage of the Vaeshya Era. If an impact is created, it will help the suffering humanity. It is the most opportune moment for creating an all-round revolution. This is a new sub-theory under Proutistic theory and may be called gati vijina’na – the science of dynamics in PROUT.” (11)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Prakash

REFERENCES:
1. Prout in A Nutshell – 18
2. Prout in a Nutshell – 21
3. Liberation of Intellect: Neo-Humanism, Disc: 10
4. Human Society – 2, The Vipra Age
5. Prout in a Nutshell – 16, Three Cardinal Socio-Political Principles
6. A Few Problems Solved – 9
7. Namami Krsnasundaram, Disc: 26
8. Namami Krsnasundaram, Disc: 26
9. Prout Nutshell – 21
10. Liberation of Intellect: Neo-Humansim, ‘Exploitation & Pseudo-Culture’
11. A Few Problems Solved – 9

**** End of the first letter and start of the Baba story ****

To: AM-GLOBAL
Date: Sat, 09 Feb 2013 23:02:47 +0000

== BABA STORY: BLISSFUL TIMES IN THE PISKAMOR OFFICE ==

Namaskar,
Those days, at the Piskamor Central Office of Ananda Marga, one special type of kiirtan was going on. Kiirtan itself had just recently been introduced and this is the story of those blessed occasions.

Baba’s cot was placed in the lawn of the Central office, especially in the evening hours. This cot was in the middle of a small, grass circle that had a radius of only 3 feet. The outer band of that grass circle was a section of flowers, 1 ft in width.

And then Wts and margiis were dancing around Him singing kiirtan.

The cot itself was placed on the ground directly; there wasn’t any dais. We were also dancing on ground. So we were all on the same level and Baba was sitting in the nucleus – on that cot – just three feet away from the periphery. He was so very close. He was looking so attractive and we were moving closely around Him chanting His holy name.

All the devotees were ecstatically dancing around Baba while He was graciously sitting in lalita mudra. Baba’s cot was in the nucleus and we were all making a circle around the Him, singing Baba Nam Kevalam.

The whole scene was blissful and charged with devotional feeling. It was completely His grace. There was an unparalleled spiritual vibration that Baba created where all were pulled towards Him like small pieces of iron towards one massive, very strong magnet. Those present had very rare and unique devotional experiences. With that vibration, everything in the surrounding atmosphere was blissful. That was because of His divine grace.

So those were really blissful days in Ananda Marga. Even today when I think about that devotional scene then I feel goose bumps all over my body and a strong devotional pull in my heart. The memories bring on one spiritual surge.

SITTING IN LALITA MUDRA

The whole flow of that kiirtan was so charming. Baba was in lalita mudra – sitting with one leg crossed over the other with His one knee just a little bit raised above the other leg. So that one knee was about 2 feet above the cot and Baba had both His hands on His knee. All the time looking so attractive.

Many may also remember how in DMC Baba used to also sit in that mudra. Certainly sometimes He was also sitting in siddhasana and sometimes in easy posture; but many times He was in that lalit mudra. So it was Baba’s style to occasionally sit in like that.

And when sitting in that pose during those kiirtan sessions, then always Baba had a very calm and peaceful look on His face. Just He was sitting there quietly, closing His eyes. Indeed He looked so beautiful in that pose and during those kiirtan sessions the whole environment was saturated with His divine love.

Now when I think about that beauty, then I can feel as if some heaven descended on the Earth. Thinking about this gives a surge of vibration even now.

REPORTING WITH BABA

Side by side, many glorious Ananda Marga reporting sessions were also going on at His Piskamor office those days. And while on the outside in superficial way it was looking like Baba was very angry and being very harsh, but all along everyone present felt His divine sweetness. We felt that everything was going on was just His grace.

Because those days Baba was giving huge pressure for work and He was taking report while sitting on His rotating chair. And the air was electrified with His divine grace. Because even though scolding was going on, but internally everyone was feeling blissful and that their burdens of samskaras had been removed. Full feeling of freshness was there. So it was just His grace.

But on the outside it was looking very strict and serious. Because Baba was giving huge work targets, which were impossible to attain – like doing pracar in several thousand villages in just one week’s time. Yet side by side maximum pressure was given to satisfy those demands. And when Baba was taking report and seeing that all the work was not completed then all sorts of dramas were done and huge punishments were given.

That time Baba Himself was playing His drama and beating us with stick and if that was not enough then He ordered us to do 10,000 tik-tik. And as most know, tik tik is a code word & the full meaning is to catch both your ear lobes (lower part) with your opposite hand and sit down and stand up and sit down and stand up. And Baba would order us to go on doing 10,000 times.

This was all His loving drama. And all the devotees were enjoying and fulfilling their punishment by doing one tik-tik & counting out 50 or 100. And by this was their number would reach to 1000, 2000, and some 3000 etc. And then in grand fashion Baba would call out that everyone who finished 3000, they had fulfilled their quota. Because Baba being the Parama Purusa knew exactly what was going on.

So it was just His divine liila and we always we felt how this punishment was all given with His great compassion. Because at the time while all this was going on, then each then every devotee could feel Baba’s divine love radiating in their heart – even though on the outside His behavior was looking very tough.

And later on, by His grace, we realised that by giving us huge pressure of work, Baba was actually goading our minds unto the path of beatitude. Because this world is full of allurements and it is so easy for the mind to go astray. But when everyone had huge work demands on their head, then their was no scope to get caught up in the negative ways of maya. Rather by paying heed to Baba’s pressure for work, and concentrating in that way,then the mind remained in a completely positive stance. Always thinking and planning to do more and more selfless service for the humanity. So like this those heavy work demands which were impossible to complete, that was Baba’s special way of watching for our welfare and bringing us closer to Him. Because that pressure of forced us to keep our minds focused in His direction. So it is His blessing.

Hence all along, those days in the Piskmor office were ensconced in His blissful flow. Everyone felt cared for and loved. His grace was tangibly felt by one and all– whether by getting scolded or punished and feeling their samskaras peel away such that their whole body was feeling light and energized. Or devotees were feeling His grace by singing His name in kiirtan. So in all the ways being in Baba’s presence meant being ensconced in the blissful showering of His causeless grace.

BABA’S DIVINE MANNER

Here are some Ananda Marga guidelines that are highly related with the special, unique ways of Baba, the Sadguru.

Baba says, “Only to love is not the work of the Guru. One who only loves you is your enemy, and one who only punishes you is also your enemy. But the one who both loves and punishes in a balanced way is the real Guru.”
(Yoga Psychology, 98, p. 174)

Baba says, “Nigraha’nugrahe shakto guruityabhidhiiyate– ‘the guru must possess the capacity both to punish and to love, or bless, his disciples’. Punishment alone without love is not good. Love and punishment should go together, and the degree of punishment should never exceed the degree of love. Then only can one be called a real spiritual guru.” (15 March 1981)

BABA’S BLESSING

Here following are some especially inspiring words that show how He is eternally linked with one and all.

Baba says, “Now, the entity by whose grace one comes into contact with sat (sat, the non-changeable entity, the non-changeable stance, the non-changeable nuclear entity around which so many electrons move) – that entity, or rather, that framework through which Parama Purus’a is working or Ta’raka Brahma is functioning, is the Sadguru, `Sadgurum’ tvam’ nama’mi’ – `I do my namah before You, at Your altar’.” (Ananda Vacnamrtam part 3, p.48)

Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Pramod

Note 1: ABOUT PISKAMOR OFFICE

Baba’s office in Piskamor Ranchi was in one rented house approximately 1/2 kilometer from the old jagrti.

Note 2: IMPLICIT FAITH IN GURU

Those days most everyone was feeling how Baba’s every action was blissful. But a few unfortunate people could never get adjusted. So due to lack of devotion, or poor samskara, or whatever the case, due to these things they ran from the scene. Means some persons like Dada Nirmalanandaji Avt, Ac. Tadgatanandaji Avt, Ac. Prakashanandaji Avt., Ac Prashantanandaji Avt., Ac. Prajinanandaji Avt, they all left. So those who left are in the small, small minority. And their future is mostly dark till they rectify themselves. In contrast, devotees never have such problems because due to strong love for Baba they have implicit faith that what Guru does, that is based in supreme welfare motive.

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.

****************************************
Well Irrigation Is Disastrous

“Question – What are the drawbacks of well irrigation?”

“Answer – Well irrigation causes the level of the water table to go down until the subterranean flow of water eventually dries up. Shortages of water due to well irrigation are not easily perceptible.”

“The negative effects of well irrigation include the following:”

“(1) All neighbouring shallow wells dry up creating the problem of the lack of drinking water.”

“(2) Trees, orchards and large plants don’t get sufficient water so they may wither and die. Green countryside will become a desert after 30 to 45 years of intensive well irrigation.”

“(3) In some deep tube wells elements or minerals which are harmful to the soil get mixed with the water, causing salinity, for example. As a result the land becomes unfit for cultivation and eventually becomes infertile.”

“(4) When the flow of well-water stops, irrigation tanks supplied by these wells also dry up.”

“Thus, well irrigation should be used only as a temporary measure because of the devastating effects it can have on the surrounding environment. Alternative methods of irrigation are river irrigation, irrigation from reservoirs, shift irrigation and lift irrigation.”

(Prout in a Nutshell – 14, Questions and Answers [on Society] – 3)

Note: Although some may think that impending water shortages and resultant disaster are fear mongering, but that is not the case. There is a limited supply of underground water. Around the globe, people are using underground water for drinking and irrigation by using pumps etc. Using underground water for drinking is ok, but it is extremely harmful to use underground water for irrigation purposes.

By this way, the water table is rapidly diminishing and a severe water crisis is threatening the earth.

Due to a lack of proper knowledge, serious problems are cropping up around the globe. Our duty is to follow Baba’s guidelines and educate others. To overlook the problem is to invite disaster.

Becuase of deep well irrigation, the water table is dropping. Plants and trees become dry and brittle. Extreme dryness invites fires. The vegetation gets destroyed. Without trees, there is no more rain. This brings drought which then leads to starvation, and ultimately death.

This is the eventual outcome wherever groundwater irrigation is in vogue.

So then what is the answer? How to irrigate? Rain water should be collected in ponds and reservoirs and used locally. That will solve the problem and offer an environmentally sound, renewable resource for our water needs, most critically, irrigation.
****************************************

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Why Baba Gives So Much Importance to Cultural Artifacts

To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Why Baba Gives So Much Importance to Cultural Artifacts
From: Shankar@passport4….com
Date: Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:58:33

Baba

== WHY BABA GIVES SO MUCH IMPORTANCE TO CULTURAL ARTIFACTS ==

Namaskar,
Every Ananda Margii knows that Baba has taken great interest in artifacts and archeology. We should understand why, what our role should be, and how this relates to a recurring issue taken up around the globe.

To begin, here is Baba’s first-hand account.

“I went there to do archaeological research on Angadesh, in the Lachmiipur jungle area by the eastern border of the Khirkhiriya (Kśiirakśiriká) Hills. I found there many cave paintings from the Buddhist era. I even came across some artifacts that dated back to the beginning of humankind’s history in old Angadesh. In these hills humankind depicted its existence through many different varieties of drawings. From these it can be understood just how far back Angadesh’s history goes. If Karna is accepted as Anga’s first king, then Anga’s political history is over 3500 years old, but these cave paintings are signs of the first stage of prehistoric humans’ ascension through the annals of history. They are approximately twelve thousand to fifteen thousand years old. No writings are found with them because at that time humankind had not yet invented script.” (1)

The key point here is that Baba uses artifacts and archaeology as a means to create a proper history of that area. Thus far, around the world, what is often accepted as “history” presents a poor portrayal of what really happened. Through archaeology and the study of artifacts, Baba presents the proper historical record. And that is what He wants that we should do as well. Ananda Margiis and local archaeologists should unearth the truth about their area and tell the real story of those indigenous peoples. Their greatness and glory should be told, not forgotten.

“It heartens me to see young men like you,” I told the young man. “Go ahead and rescue Rarh’s archaeological artifacts from the ground and reconstruct the history of Bengal. Remove the defects from India’s historical record. Make the history of humankind resonate with the great message of humanity.” (2)

Indeed, the whole of human history needs to be retold based on the evidence gotten from archaeological findings. Because, tragically, up until today, the right and correct history has not been told.

““I am a child of Magadha. History has never done full justice to this land of Magadha. Every dust particle of its villages and markets is mixed with the gold-dust of its heritage but no one has properly recognized it or recorded it. The little that has been written about it has been written by foreign historians – some out of sport, some out of merriment.” (3)

Outside agents – primarily from imperialistic, western nations during the people of colonization – have created a skewed historical account and in so doing vastly undermined and exploited the feelings and sentiments of those native peoples and communities. Thus a double loss occurred: The right factual history was not presented and an inferiority complex was imposed on native populations.

Baba wants archaeology and artifacts used for telling the true history and boosting the morale of local peoples.

ARTIFACTS UTILIZED TO DISTORT HISTORY

To date, western powers have essentially scoured this earth for resources, power, wealth and more. Cultural artifacts were pillaged from lands around the world in order to heighten the economic dominance of those imperialistic nations and rob the local people of their self-worth, dignity, and self-esteem. Instead of using those artifacts as a means of recounting the real history and contributions of those native populations, foreign invaders stripped the land and the people of their wealth and integrity. In prior eras, various Mughal rulers exploited from inside the country (India), whereas western agents came from outside and returned back with their treasures.

Today, we see that the gems and jewels from Lord Krsna era embedded within the British crown, and the massive gold peacock throne (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peacock_Throne) unearthed from Indian soil by Mughal kings. This is the story of so many lands, not just India.

Yet now, various nations exploited in the past are demanding that their cultural artifacts be returned and their legacy restored. From South America to Greece and Turkey, and from the far east to Africa, those nations exploited and colonized by imperialists are demanding their cultural wealth be returned. This has been a recurring dialog, but is often met without much success.

CONTEMPORARY DEMANDS:

RETURN THEIR PRECIOUS ARTIFACTS

More and more countries now want their precious, cultural artifacts returned to their respective homelands.

The Greeks, the Egyptians, the Indians, the Filipinos, the Africans, the Peruvians, and so many others are now demanding that museums in places like New York, London, and Paris etc return their precious artifacts.

This stands as one recurring theme these last few years in newspapers, dailies, magazines, blogs, and discussion forum across the globe. Some of the important questions include:

(1) Why were those artifacts stolen / taken in the first place?

(2) Who now is the rightful owner of those pieces?

As the issue comes more and more to the fore, it is needed that we discuss, understand, and know the Proutistic position.

WHAT ARE THESE ARTIFACTS

&

BABA’S ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOURS

By the term ‘artifacts’, we are talking about statues, engravings, idols, sculptures, carvings, paintings, books, manuscripts, cave drawings, and pottery etc that are thousands of years old – all of which are priceless and provide a unique window into the cultural heritage of a people.

So these artifacts are of great importance, and we should also remember that Baba Himself places a huge emphasis on this as He has spent countless days and tours unearthing and examining artifacts of old.

Baba says, “Each day I would go to one or two different spots in the Suvarnarekha River valley in search of archaeological artifacts of ancient Rarh. One day, while searching in a spot near Muri in the Silli area, I came across a fossilized fragment of a mammoth jaw with part of the tusk still attached. I knew I had found something important. There was no doubt that it would add lustre to the cultural heritage of Rarh.” (4)

And indeed, so many of the documented accounts in Shabda Cayanika are about Baba’s various archaeological explorations, plus in 1984 He did an entire DMC tour of north India which focused exclusively on the ancestry and archeology of so many regions & places.

Hence, the overall importance of such artifacts cannot be denied.

Certainly, today, all these artifacts have become priceless – whether they be from ancient Greece and Rome or from the hillsides of Nepal or Chile. Even then, money was not always the main aim behind the capturing of those artifacts ages ago. There was something else at stake.

INFUSE AN INFERIORITY COMPLEX

Wherever imperialists made colonies they stole and / or destroyed artifacts and treasures and enslaved the local people by injecting an inferiority complex. By this way they became easy targets for further exploitation by those imperialistic powers.

The history of those colonies was written by European scholars. They painted the picture as if before they arrived, those indigenous people had nothing. This left a deep inferiority complex upon that populace for future generations. Those local people felt they were the descendants of forefathers that had no greatness or glory. When that is not at all correct. Yet by this way, those local communities were pushed down and exploited by imperialists year after year, generation after generation etc.

Here is more of that dark history.

ROBBING A PEOPLE OF THEIR HERITAGE & CULTURAL HISTORY:

USE MISUSE ABUSE AND THEFT OF CULTURAL ARTIFACTS

When the various colonial powers scoured the earth in the 15th, 16th, & 17th centuries and beyond, then their chief aim was power and control. In brief, they wanted to rob & pillage various peoples and communities of everything they had. In order to do that, they needed to break the cultural backbone of those people. So they stripped those people of their very own cultural history and legacy.

Baba says, “Whenever the sentimental legacy of a group of people is undermined, they become easy prey to the economic, political and psycho-economic exploitation of vested interests. Such a strategy of cultural suppression was adopted by the English, French, Dutch, Spanish, American and other colonial powers.” (5)

Thus, the taking of those artifacts – like Parthenon / Elgin Marbles or the pottery and artwork of the Incas – was not only done because those colonial powers thought that one day those artifacts would become priceless, but because they wanted to deny those cultures of any self-worth. Then those subjugated peoples would be prime targets of exploitation.

Baba says, “It is proper for human beings to struggle for political freedom, for social emancipation; but if their cultural backbone is broken, then all their struggles will end in nothing…If one’s spine is shattered, it is impossible to hold one’s head erect.” (6)

So that was the essence behind the thievery. Those colonial powers wanted to annihilate the life-force of those peoples in order to steal everything they had and dominate them. And the fastest method of doing so was denying them of their cultural heritage.

That was the chief reason why those colonial powers stole those artifacts. Yes, they wanted to display those precious items in their museums. Yes, they thought those artifacts were priceless. But the main factor was to smother the spirit of the people and thus perpetuate their cycle of exploitation..

REMOVE ALL PSYCHIC INFERIORITY COMPLEXES

Here below, Baba points out that in order for a people to restore themselves and stand up again, then they must become in tune with the immense value of their cultural heritage. Once they develop respect and pride by understanding their own cultural heritage, then they can no longer be suppressed or exploited.

To this end, Baba traveled all around to correct the history and make it proper using archaeology as His chosen tool. By this way He is teaching us that archaeologists and margiis should do the same in their country and provide the correct history to the people. Local communities should not be subjected to exploitation by outside forces. Those native populations should be fortified with their own self-worth. Otherwise they easily fall prey to the prevailing dominant culture.

During his travels, wherever Baba went, He documents the ways and specialties of the common people. He documented their history and highlighted their contributions and efforts such as their crafts and art. This was His regular manner wherever He went.

Plus in Lake Gardens, He had His own museum to safely store artifacts and fossils found in Ananda Nagar and other local areas. Those items included dinosaur eggs, bones, stones, rocks etc.

Thus, whether while traveling or in Ananda Nagar, Baba did not collect fancy stones or jewels per se, but rather those common items that told the story of those peoples and lands.

This was Baba’s way of showing us how to document and preserve the talents and dignity of those peoples.

IGNORANCE OF CULTURAL HERITAGE BRINGS INFERIORITY COMPLEXES

Baba says, “If local people develop a sublime awareness of their cultural heritage they can readily throw off all psychic inferiority complexes which prevent them from attaining socio-economic self-reliance.” (7)

So one’s cultural heritage is a key facet of being able to stand up in this world. And here below Baba emphasizes how cultural heritage – such as the preservation of artifacts – is a significant aspect of our samaj theory.

Baba says, “Those who share a similar cultural legacy and uniform socio-economic potential will then be well-established in each region.” (8)

PROUTISTIC VIEW:

THE STOLEN ITEMS MUST BE RETURNED

According to Ananda Marga and Prout, the various museums in England, New York, France, and Boston etc must return those cultural artifacts to their respective communities.

Thus today when the Greeks are asking for the return of the Parthenon / Elgin Marbles, and when museums in the western powers are filled with artifacts made by the ancient peoples of faraway lands, then there is no option but to return the cultural legacy to those respective communities. That is what must be done.

HOW COLONIAL POWERS SUBJUGATED FORMER COLONIES

In order to exert continued dominance over their former colonies, western imperial powers created museums featuring all the artifacts and cultural legacies from those land which they had ruled. Now in this present era, they continue to justify why they should be the curators of those artifacts.

“Museums furnished by colonial looting have largely shaped the way a nation imagines its dominion, the nature of the human beings under its power, the geography of the land, and the legitimacy of its ancestors, working to suggest a process of political inheriting. It is necessary to understand the paradoxical way in which the objects on display at museums are tangible reminders of the power held by those who gaze at them. Eliot Colla describes the structure of the Egyptian sculpture room in the British Museum as an assemblage that “form[s] an abstract image of the globe with London at the center”. The British Museum, as Colla describes, presents a lesson of human development and progress: “the forward march of human civilization from its classical origins in Greece and Rome, through Renaissance Italy, to modern-day London”.”
“The restoration of monuments was often made in colonial states to make natives feel as if in their current state, they were no longer capable of greatness. Furthermore, sometimes colonial rulers argued that the ancestors of the colonized people did not make the artifacts. Some scholars also argue that European colonialists used monumental archaeology and tourism to appear as the guardian of the colonized, reinforcing unconscious and undetectable ownership. Colonial rulers used peoples, religions, languages, artifacts, and monuments as source for reinforcing European nationalism, which was adopted and easily inherited from the colonial states.” (from Wikipedia; reference below)

Arguments for repatriation
* Encyclopedic museums such as the British Museum, Musée du Louvre and Metropolitan Museum of Art were established as repositories for looted art during imperial and colonial rule, and thus are located in metropolitan cities out of view and reach of the cultures they were appropriated from.
* Precedence of repatriated art has already have been set in many cases but the artworks that museums currently refuse to repatriate are the most valuable and famous artworks.
* Foreign-led excavations have justified colonial rule; in the pursuit of obtaining knowledge about the artifacts, there was a need to establish control over the artifacts and the countries where they were located.
* The argument that art is a part of a universal human history is a derivative of colonial discourse that appropriated ancient art of other cultures into the Western historical narrative.
* The encyclopedic museums that house much of the world’s artworks and artifacts are located in Western cities and privilege European scholars, professionals and people.
* The argument that artwork will not be protected outside of the Western world is hypocritical as much of the artwork transported out of colonized countries was crudely removed and damaged and sometimes lost in transportation. The Elgin marbles for example, were also damaged during the cleaning and “preservation” process.
* Art is best appreciated and understood in its original historical and cultural context.
* Art taken out of the country as a spoil of war, looting, imperialism, and colonialism is unethical, even if it isn’t reflected in legislation. The possession of artwork taken under these conditions is a form of continued colonialism.
* The lack of existing legal recourse for claiming the return of illicitly appropriated cultural property is a result of colonization.
* Cultural property is a symbol of cultural heritage and identity and the appropriation of historical artworks is an affront to a nation’s pride. (from Wikipedia; reference below)

On the positive side, there are some few cases where imperialistic nations are returning the artifacts to their country of origin – such as France’s return of artifacts to Korea.

http://www.balanceofculture.com/2011/05/france-returns-cultural-artifacts-they-stole-from-korea-in-1866.html

But such instances are not the norm – still tremendous numbers of cultural artifacts critical to a country’s cultural legacy remain in the halls and showrooms of imperialistic nations.

THE STAND OF PROUT

By Baba’s grace, rationality will prevail and the cultural legacy of the people will be restored, thus helping to undo some of the countless harms done during the Colonial Era. As Proutists, we must encourage all the peoples of the world to stand up and have a voice – and to do that they must be aware of the greatness of their own cultural heritage.

Baba says, “PROUT always stands for the cause of exploited people, irrespective of race, nation, religion etc., and always opposes all types of exploitation.” (9)

BABA’S RELATED TEACHINGS

(A) This below account from Baba demonstrates how He puts history together from archaeological findings.

“The first step forward in human civilization was the discovery of fire. The second step forward was the discovery of iron. The third step forward was the invention of the wheel. That human clan of the prehistoric era which first discovered fire was considered the most civilized and advanced clan of its time. Gradually the use of fire became prevalent in all human communities. Thereafter, that community which first learned the use of iron leapt over the boundary of the stone age, bone age and bronze age, and was considered to have the most advanced civilization. The use of iron brought a new unfolding to the movement of human history, a new radiance. At that time the wheel had not yet been invented, and thus there were no vehicles. Later, with the help of iron, human beings produced the wheel. They learned to wage war seated in vehicles mounted on wheels. By sharpening the edge of the wheel they invented a weapon called the discus. The boomerang is also a type of discus used by the Maoris of Australia. In India and Central Asia people learned the use of the wheel in very ancient times, but no matter how long ago they learned it, they learned it after they learned the use of iron. That is, first they invented the chariot wheel, then afterwards turned the wheel into a weapon.”
“At one time, the ancient Mayan civilization of America was more advanced than many other civilizations, but because they lagged behind in the invention of the wheel, they were forced in subsequent times to acknowledge their defeat at the hands of other civilizations. The oldest existing artifacts of the Mayan civilization give evidence to advanced ways of life but no wheel. One should keep in mind that the Sanskrit name for America, Máyádviipa, came from the name of the Mayan civilization. During the Chola, Páńd́ya, and Pahlava dynasties of the Indian Middle Ages there was contact between America and India – this was before Columbus’s discovery of America.” (10)

(B) Next Baba recounts how in the past thieves stole artifacts thereby denying people fo their cultural legacy.

“During the Buddhist and Puranic eras, indeed, even during the Pathan era as well, the Dákrás used to gather gold particles from the sand of this river which they would then melt down to remove the base metals and extract the pure gold. During that time many of the archaeological artifacts made in this Suvarnarekha valley were fashioned of pure gold, but they fell into the hands of thieves so they are no longer found today.” (11)

(C) Here Baba explains how those early artisans used to work.

“At the beginning of civilization, the desire to create arts and crafts arose in the human mind. At that time artisans used to work at home, and arts and crafts were produced in cottage industries. Men, women, boys and girls – all participated in the creation of arts and crafts. Later people realized that some arts and crafts could not be produced in every village, so certain artifacts were produced by a few combined villages. If artisans had not combined together, they would have suffered losses in the market place, and their numbers would have been significantly reduced. So gradually human beings started to go and work in places where production was done collectively, or the first factories. At that time the few industries that existed were decentralized.” (12)

(D) This following excerpt is a description of one outing Baba made.

“I had gone at the time to a village in Nawada subdivision of Gaya district in search of archaeological artifacts from Magadha. This place was more or less in the Kśuri river basin. At the southwest it bordered the historically renowned Grdhrakút́ mountain where the Buddha performed spiritual austerities and later gave his spiritual teaching.” (13)

(E) This next teaching show how asian nations came under exploitation by outside powers.

“The Asian countries, in spite of their long heritage of morality and spirituality, have been subject to great humiliation during periods of foreign invasion. While the higher knowledge of philosophy propagated by the oriental sages and saints has been accepted as a unique contribution to the store house of human culture and civilization, the people of these lands could not resist the foreign invaders. The history of all the Asian countries, a region of so many religions, has been dominated by foreign powers for centuries together. This imbalance brought about their material deprivation and political subjugation.” (14)

(F) This is a formula for how people get trapped under a heap of inferiority complexes and become subject to exploitation.

“The use of non-local languages as the medium of instruction only results in the suppression and subjugation of the local language and inevitably means the suppression of the local culture. This in turn leads to psychic demoralization, inferiority complexes and a defeatist mentality. Whenever the sentimental legacy of a group of people is undermined, they become easy prey to the economic, political and psycho-economic exploitation of vested interests. Such a strategy of cultural suppression was adopted by the English, French, Dutch, Spanish, American and other colonial powers. If local people develop a sublime awareness of their cultural heritage they can readily throw off all psychic inferiority complexes which prevent them from attaining socio-economic self-reliance.” (15)

(G) Next Baba highlights how museums should faithfully and aptly preserve all cultural artifacts.

“Deities should be preserved in museums, and temples should be restored to maintain the cultural and historical heritage of the country.” (16)

(H) Here is Baba’s call to all peoples in all lands.

“We have to save our cultural life, we have to save our heritage, by linking the bright past to the brighter future with the golden cord of universalism.” (17)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Shankar

REFERENCES:
1. Shabda Cayanika – 2, Discourse: 9
2. Shabda Cayanika – 2, Discourse: 8
3. Shabda Cayanika – 1
4. Shabda Cayanika – 2 (Disc: 8)
5. A Few Problems Solved – 9
6. Liberation of Intellect: Neo-Humanism, Disc: 7
7. A Few Problems Solve – 9
8. Proutist Economics
9. Prout in Nutshell – 13
10. Shabda Cayanika – 1, Áṋka to Ád́hya (Discourse 4)
11. Shabda Cayanika – 2 (Disc: 8)
12. Decentralized Economy -2
13. Shabda Cayanika – 1, Discourse: 6
14. Prout in a Nutshell – 18
15. A Few Problems Solved – 9
16. Prout Nutshell – 16
17. Prout Nutshell – 17, The Significance of Language

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Easy But Some Cannot Get It

From: “Vidyasagar.Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Easy But Some Cannot Get It
Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2013 22:19:53

Baba

== EASY BUT SOME CANNOT GET IT ==

Namaskar,
It is quite clear that Baba’s book – Problems of the Day – addresses many points across the entire gamut of Ananda Marga social philosophy. Yet sometimes this is misunderstood by some.

For instance, some years ago, one respected Dadaji publicly wrote: “the book [Problems of the Day] is focused on just one major problem – capitalism.”

Thus Dadaji claimed that the Problems of the Day book is dealing with just one problem. However, we know that this is simply not true. Problems of the Day examines a wide breadth of social issues. And I think that Dada came to understand this fact.

More recently, one “author” misrepresented Problems of the Day. Throughout his own publication, which was proof-read countless times, this person refers to the book as Problem of the Day – i.e. in singular form, not Problems of the Day. Indeed, he titled chapter 17 of his book, “Problem of the Day” and throughout that 9-page chapter refers to it over and over again on every page as Problem of the Day. Why Devashish (Deva’shiis’a / Devashish / Devashiisa) did like this in his book, The Jamalpur Years (2010), one can only surmise.

Suffice to say here that we should always present “Problems of the Day” to others in a way where they can understand that in this small booklet, Baba has graciously addressed all the major problems plaguing humanity. In seed form, He has addressed everything.

That much should always be conveyed to others – it will generate interest and curiosity – and people will be inclined to learn more. In this manner we can propagate Prout.

So everyone should be perfectly clear that Problems of the Day is not about one issue, rather all of them. Where this has been misrepresented in formal publications it should be corrected.

BEST WAY TO GET AN OVERVIEW OF PROUT

One of the best ways to get an overview of Baba’s teachings on Prout is to read these three short discourses:
(1) Discourses on Prout (initially titled “A Discussion”)
(2) Talks on Prout
(3) Problems of the Day

Each of the above three discourses has been published as a single chapter in the Prout in a Nutshell book series.

QUICK WAY TO KNOW ALMOST ALL POLICIES OF PROUT

Baba inaugurated the Renaissance Universal movement in Shrii Aniruddha Prasad Singh’s house (Trimohan, Bhagalpur) on 26 January 1958 by delivering the famed discourse that was printed in book form as “Problems of the Day”.

So Problems of the Day was given even before “Idea and Ideology”, and just after Baba delivered Tattvika Praveshika. In those early days, Baba had yet to put forth His teaching on social philosophy, so those margiis were unaware about those critical issues.

Today, we see Prout as a vast body of literature which contains around 200 discourses published in 21 volumes and related books. Now we know well that Baba’s Proutistic teachings cover every nook and corner of human experience. Prout is vast in scope and its entirety falls within the realm of the social philosophy of Ananda Marga.

But during those early days when Baba started Ananda Marga Pracarak Samgha, there was not so much written about our social philosophy. So margiis were not aware about Baba’s social viewpoints and perspectives. So it was essential to put forth a brief yet comprehensive overview of Ananda Marga’s social platform, i.e. the ideals and stand of Prout. And that is exactly what Baba did in this very discourse which HE delivered in Bhagalpur on 26 January 1958.

The ‘Problems of the Day’ discourse contains 37 points. All those points are independent issues. And these are not ordinary issues – they are burning issues. The whole globe is suffering from these problems. Baba, being the Taraka Brahma, even addressed points in 1958 that were not dire issues in those days, but were to become critical topics in the years to come. So with perfect knowledge and perfect foresight, Baba told everything on that occasion.

This relatively short discourse gives a pointed and dynamic overview of nearly every Proutistic teaching – in seed form. Those aware about Prout philosophy and the Problems of the Day book cannot deny this fact.

SOME OF THE POINTS ADDRESSED IN “PROBLEMS OF THE DAY”

Here are some critical examples what subjects have been addressed in this single discourse, Problems of the Day.

– Cosmic Fraternity and Ownership of Property vs Communism and Capitalism;
– Communism and Gandhism are not the Answer of Capitalism;
– Communistic approach of Accusing Capitalism is Negative;
– Policy of Distribution of Wealth vs. Capitalism and Communism;
– Spiritual Motivation vs. Communism and Capitalism;

The points do not end here. There are many more issues which Baba has addressed in this book, Problems of the Day:

– Issue of Casteism;
– Policy of Decentralization of Economy;
– Policy of Small and Large Scale Industry vs. Gandhism;
– Public Welfare, Mechanization, and Unemployment;
– Trade Union movement / Communism / Political leaders;

MORE OF THE POINTS ADDRESSED IN “PROBLEMS OF THE DAY”

Here are some more points which Baba has addressed in Problems of the Day:

– Policy of Cooperative Movement;
– Policy of Industry and Trade vs Capitalism and Communism;
– Women’s Rights;
– Dowry Problem;
– Establishment of World Peace;

And still here are other issues from Baba’s Problems of the Day discourse:

– World Citizenship;
– Policy of Forgiveness;
– Geo, Socio, Communal & Religious sentiment, Casteism and Universalism;
– Issue of World Government;
– World Language Issue;

FURTHER POINTS ADDRESSED IN “PROBLEMS OF THE DAY”

Also in the Problems of the Day discourse there are these points:

– World Script Issue;
– Problem of Imposing World Dress;
– Human Culture and Revolutionary Marriages;
– Population Management Issue and Birth Control;
– Control of Science & Laboratory Babes;

Here are some more points which Baba has addressed in Problems of the Day:

– Issue of Unity and Party Politics;
– Social Service and Party Politics and Universalism;
– Importance of Spirituality in Politics / Failure of Communism;
– Party politics and Communism & Capitalism;
– Classless Society and Communism;
– Issue of Education and Party Politics;

THESE POINTS AS WELL ARE PRESENT IN THE PROBLEMS OF THE DAY BOOK

And finally here are other issues from Baba’s Problems of the Day discourse:

– World Government / Social service / Sadvipra leadership;
– Failure of Democracy & Election Reforms; Education Policy & Universalism;
– Social Cycle and Sadvipra Leadership;
– Social Dynamics, Revolution and Counter-Revolution;
– Ananda Marga ideology is the Only Solution;
– Materialism (Capitalism and Communism) / Sadvipra Leadership / Human society is One and Indivisible / Samgacchadhvam Mantra.

And so many more points have been addressed in this Problems of the Day (POD) book. If any sincere margii will take efforts to read carefully they may find more issues as well.

“PROBLEMS OF THE DAY” IS COMPREHENSIVE

So in this Problems of the Day discourse, Baba has given one special, comprehensive vision in a compact format. That’s to say Baba has given the points in very small, form – smaller than mustard seeds yet those issues and solutions into gigantic banyan trees. So this single discourse gives pointed solutions to so many problems.

“PROBLEMS OF THE DAY” DISCOURSE ALONE IS ENOUGH FOR GENERAL PHILOSOPHICAL

OF THE VAST PROUT PHILOSOPHY

These points are very significant and of critical importance. For quick reference, this Problems of the Day discourse alone is enough for
general philosophical knowledge of the vast PROUT philosophy. With the help of this book those early margiis began their socio-political
awareness of Ananda Marga ideals and developed an understanding of the key concepts of Prout.

As we know Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji Baba has given Prout as a part of Ananda Marga philosophy, which is why the essentials of Prout stand in the 5th chapter of Ananda Sutram.

Baba has systematically addressed all the problems causing huge catastrophes and creating serious impediments to the formation of one human society. The whole globe is suffering and burning in these various problems. And Baba has given all those solutions.

Until these things are followed, the crisis is not going to finish. Rather it will escalate. So in conclusion we can say that this Problems of the Day discourse is basic and fundamental, yet dynamic and complex.

POINTS WERE ELABORATED UPON IN SUBSEQUENT PROUT DISCOURSES

Because the fact is that in this Problems of the Day discourse, Baba has given the solution to all the burning socio-economico-politico issues. Since then Baba has given one or more discourses and elaborated further upon all these points and given a more detailed solution. Yet, the foundation was all put forth on that occasion when He delivered, “Problems of th Day.”

The ideas Baba has expressed in His Problems of the Day lecture have been magnified in various discourses which are available in
Prout volumes.

Although Problems of the Day is one discourse, or just one booklet or book, whatever we may call it; but its existence is very meaningful. It is like a map which is small in size but represents a vast area. That is the way this Problems of the Day discourse works.

A GREAT WAY TO LEARN THE ESSENTIALS OF PROUT

Those who want to gain a basic understanding of Prout philosophy in seed form should read “Problems of the Day” – again and again. This book touches all the points and hence is an ideal publication to recommend to sympathizers and new persons. By this way they will easily understand our socio-economico-politico stand.

DEFECTIVE SOCIAL ORDER INJECTS AN INFERIORITY COMPLEX

“There cannot be any complex in the spiritual level or existential sphere. In spirituality there is no complex because every person has contact with Parama Puruśa on a purely personal level. There is no third existence between them. There are only two – the spiritualist and the Parama Pitá [Cosmic Father]. Spiritualists move towards the Cosmic Father and sit on His lap. To do this is every one’s birthright. Nobody can be debarred from doing so on the pretext of inferior caste, colour, education or poverty. Since this is everyone’s birthright there cannot be any complex in the arena of spirituality. The defective social order injects an inferiority complex in the mind which often persists even when people enter the spiritual field. They feel that as the Cosmic Father is so great, how can they, being of low caste or poor or uneducated, go to Him? This is called mahimnabodha in the shástras [scriptures]. But one should not forget that the relation of father and child exists. Even if the father is a great scholar, the uneducated child will go to him and ask for whatever he requires because he or she has affection for the father. Just now I said that in the field of spirituality there cannot be any complex, but there are complexes due to social defects. It is our spiritual duty to rectify the social order. If we fail, there may not be good spiritualists. Even those who have the potentiality to become good spiritualists may not progress. They may be like a flower that dies before it blossoms.
I cannot allow this to happen. For this reason the theory of Prout has been given so that every person can progress speedily in the field of spirituality without any complex.” (1)

ENTIRE THEORY OF PROUT STANDS UPON THIS VAEDIKA SERMON

“Suppose you have gathered sufficient money, and there is no dearth of food in your house, but the remaining portion of society, your neighbours, your friends, are suffering from a dearth of money, or food, or clothes. Then it means that you are not following the spirit of “samgacchadhvam”. “Samgacchadhvam” means to build a strong, well-knit society where there shall be no exploitation, no superiority complex or inferiority complex. Just to represent the spirit of “samgacchadhvam”, I propounded the theory of PROUT. So the entire theory of PROUT stands upon this Vaedika sermon of “samgacchadhvam”.” (2)

CREATIONS OF VESTED INTERESTS

“Just see the case of air, light, water, respirations and everything. The need for these things is the same for all individuals. There have been no differentiations. These differentiations that we see in society are creations of vested interests, creations of depraved persons, of degenerated, immoral people. So you should not support these actional defects of immoral persons. You should follow the divine vibrational system, that is, you must not try to find any differentiations among individuals. “Devábhágam yathápúrve saḿjánáná upásate.” It is the wont of divine expressions that there be no differentiations, no class of exploiters and exploited. That is, this wont of not creating any differentiations was not only their duty, it was their upásaná, the desideratum of their existential march.” (3)

BELONGS TO THE SAME BIG HUMAN FAMILY

““Samáni va ákuti”. When everything cometh from the same source, from the same Progenitor, and when finally everything goeth back to the same desideratum, there must be the same aspirations, the same longing, in the heart of each and every individual. But due to the depraving actions of immoral people, those exploited, those downtrodden people are forced to forget their goal. They are drifted away from the desideratum of their life. This should not be done. Everybody should get the chance to develop their natural longings for Him.
“Samánáhrdayánivah”. When everything comes from the same Progenitor and moves along the same path towards the supreme culminating point, then should there be any cordial difference between man and man? No, there must not be. Everybody should be given the scope, or circumstances should be created, such that nobody gets the scope to feel that their future is sealed forever, is blocked. So let everybody feel that everybody in this expressed universe belongs to the same big human family. “Ek caoká, ek culhá, ek hyay mánav samáj”.” (4)

ENEMIES OF THE BIG HUMAN SOCIETY

““Samánamastu vo mano.” All microcosms come from the same Macrocosm, and finally, all microcosms will become one with the same Singular Macrocosm. So, while they are in society, while they are in the phenomenal world, they should remember this Supreme truth: that actually they are one, one Entity expressing itself through so many different corporeal structures. And when this is done – and it is not at all a difficult job to do it – then what will it be? It will be a society in the proper spirit of the term. And this is the loftiest, it is the highest mission of all human beings. Those who do not recognize this fact, or those who want to forget this fact, are actually enemies of human society. Those who support casteism, racialism, provincialism, parochialism, nationalism, even internationalism, are enemies of the big human society. Human society is, rather should be, based on only one ism, and that ism is universalism.” (5)

Namaskar,
in Him
Vidyasagar

Note 1: WHAT IS PROUT

PROUT: Progressive Utilization Theory; Shrii P.R. Sarkar’s socio-economic theory for the all-round development of society. Proutists are adherents of PROUT. To His bhaktas, Shrii P.R. Sarkar is known as Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji, or simply Baba.

Note 2: REFERENCES

1. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 5, The Social Order and Superiority and Inferiority Complexes
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 3, Saḿgacchadhvaḿ
3. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 3, Saḿgacchadhvaḿ
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 3, Saḿgacchadhvaḿ
5. Ananda Vacanamrtam – 3, Saḿgacchadhvaḿ

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Cause & Treatment of Various Psychic Diseases

Date: Wed, 09 Jan 2013 21:59:48 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: mahesh/matt mjp@broadview…
Subject: Cause & Treatment of Various Psychic Diseases

Baba

== CAUSE & TREATMENT OF VARIOUS PSYCHIC DISEASES ==

Namaskar,
The following letter addresses various psychic diseases and their cure. In the life of a sadakha, a disease-free mind is essential. If one suffers from any psychic disease they should try to remove it so they can move forward properly. Otherwise, that mental disease will impede their progress.

Fortunately, if anyone practices sadhana regularly, their psychic disease(s) will naturally dissipate and disappear. If anyone is deeply involved in meditation and doing very good sadhana, by His grace, then their psychic disease will quickly be removed from the mind.

The tricky part is that the mind burdened by a psychic disease cannot do deep sadhana; that is the problem. Hence, psychological training in the form of auto-suggestion and outer suggestion is needed to get rid of the disease. And that is what is discussed below.

SHE SAW A GHOST AND DIED

“I had a certain acquaintance whose garden was quite large. One night his wife thought she saw a ghost in a corner of the garden. In Bihar, a female ghost is called “cuŕeil” in Hindi. At the sight of the imagined ghost she cried out in fear, and fainted. She never regained consciousness and died some time later. The next night the same gentleman came out of his house at the same time. He also thought he saw the ghost. “Why should people have to die one after the other in this way?” he thought. Stepping forward to strike at the imaginary ghost with a stick, he suddenly saw that it was nothing but a bush which, in the moonlight, looked just like a human being. His wife had died for nothing, terrified by the deceptive image of a bush. Most so-called ghosts are like this. Towards the end of the rainy season rotting vegetation often gives out a gas, called marsh gas or will-o’-the-wisp, which bursts into flame when it comes in contact with oxygen. This burning gas may easily be taken to be a ghost. This is how a fear complex can develop.” (1)

“The defeatist complex also strikes deep in the human mind. “How will I possibly be able to do the work? How will I be able to fight against such heavy odds? How will I be able to do my job properly?” Because people think like this before they act, they are unable to do their work properly. The defeatist complex weakens their minds. Had they been bolder they would have been more successful.” (1)

“One must uproot all sorts of complexes from the mind. No complex should be entertained in the physical, psychic or spiritual spheres because all are equally detestable.” (1)

HEADS WILL FALL BACKWARDS

“Due to a defective social order. Some people have to live like slaves in the society and thus suffer from a strong inferiority complex – their heads remain forever bowed – while others inherit vast wealth as well as family pride from their ancestors and keep their heads held so high that at times it appears as if it will fall backwards. These complexes are due to a defective social order. The complex is in the crude physical world and in the socio-economic strata.” (2)

“All are the progeny of Parama Puruśa. Even so, some people think that because they are endowed with less intellect, knowledge, financial capacity or physical strength than others, they are inferior. Such an inferiority complex contracts their minds and retards their progress. It must be overcome.” (1)

CAUSE OF DEFEATIST PSYCHOLOGY

“At the very outset, the fascist exploiters select a weak community which inhabits a region rich in natural resources. The fascists socially and culturally uproot the victimized community by imposing a foreign language and culture on them. Because the local people cannot easily express their individual and collective feelings and sentiments in a foreign language, they develop a defeatist psychology and inferiority complex with respect to the exploiters. This defeatist psychology destroys the natural spiritedness and will to fight of the local people, and the fascists skillfully utilize this golden opportunity. The primary interest of the fascist exploiters is to gradually suck the vitality of the local community so that they can pillage and plunder their natural resources, but if necessary they will even obliterate the local community from the face of the earth.” (3)

“A person must not suffer from an inferiority complex, because that person and his or her friends and siblings are all the progeny of the same Progenitor. They come from the same origin [as all]; they are of the same Father. So why should a person suffer from any inferiority complex? Again, you should not suffer from a superiority complex, because all are your brothers and sisters. All are the glorious children of that Supreme Father. No, you must not develop any superiority complex.” (4)

AN OLD WIDOW OF, SAY, 100 YEARS

“Nobody is unimportant, nobody is insignificant. Each and every existence is valuable. And the life of an old widow of, say, 100 years, is also not meaningless. Her existence also bears certain significance. If an ordinary ant dies a premature death, the equilibrium of the entire universe will be lost. Nobody is unimportant, so you must not develop the psychology of helplessness or hopelessness or defeatist complex or fear complex, because the Supreme Father, the Supreme noumenal entity is always with you.” (5)

“Why should you suffer from a fear complex or an inferiority complex, when the Supreme Father is your father, when you all are the children of the same Father; why should you suffer from any inferiority complex or any fear complex, when the Supreme Father is with you? You are not weak. You are very strong, because the Almighty Father, the omnipotent Supreme Father, is with you to help you – so you must not encourage the psychology of weakness, or an inferiority complex or a fear complex. He is with you, always He is with you to help you. You are never alone.” (6)

SOME SCRIPTURES ARE THE WORST ENEMY OF HUMAN SOCIETY

“In the field of spirituality there must not be any complex, neither fear complex nor shy complex nor any other complex. So the scriptures saying that if you do not obey Him you will go to Hell, like this, these scriptures are the worst enemy of human society. Because these scriptures create a complex, a fear complex, in the human mind, and that fear complex creates disparity in this human society.” (7)

FLOWER THAT DIES BEFORE IT BLOSSOMS

“There cannot be any complex in the spiritual level or existential sphere. In spirituality there is no complex because every person has contact with Parama Puruśa on a purely personal level. There is no third existence between them. There are only two – the spiritualist and the Parama Pitá [Cosmic Father]. Spiritualists move towards the Cosmic Father and sit on His lap. To do this is every one’s birthright. Nobody can be debarred from doing so on the pretext of inferior caste, colour, education or poverty. Since this is every one’s birthright there cannot be any complex in the arena of spirituality. The defective social order injects an inferiority complex in the mind which often persists even when people enter the spiritual field. They feel that as the Cosmic Father is so great, how can they, being of low caste or poor or uneducated, go to Him? This is called mahimnabodha in the shástras [scriptures]. But one should not forget that the relation of father and child exists. Even if the father is a great scholar, the uneducated child will go to him and ask for whatever he requires because he or she has affection for the father. Just now I said that in the field of spirituality there cannot be any complex, but there are complexes due to social defects. It is our spiritual duty to rectify the social order. If we fail, there may not be good spiritualists. Even those who have the potentiality to become good spiritualists may not progress. They may be like a flower that dies before it blossoms.” (2)

“I cannot allow this to happen. For this reason the theory of Prout has been given so that every person can progress speedily in the field of spirituality without any complex.” (2)

EVERYONE IS THE CHILD OF THE COSMIC FATHER

“In the existential sphere, too, there should not be any complex because everyone is the child of the Cosmic Father. If there is any superiority complex, it should be the common one that one is the child of the Cosmic Father who is so great, so potent. One may only have this superiority complex. Whatever people possess is given by the Cosmic Father and therefore no individual has the right to have a superiority complex. So in the existential sphere there is no reason for any complex to remain. In other words it can be said that there will be a common complex that all are the children of the Cosmic Father, no one being inferior and no one being superior.” (2)

CRIPPLED BY CREATING A TREMENDOUS COMPLEX

“Kabir and Mahaprabhu launched open revolts against the casteism which had kept Indian society crippled by creating a tremendous complex of self-aggrandizement in one section of society and a terrible inferiority complex in another section. Although Mahaprabhu had been born into a well-known Brahman family, he suffered many insults because of his opposition to casteism. Despite this he remained steadfast in his ideology.” (8)

YOU MUST NOT SAY, “OH, LORD, I AM A SINNER…”

“Now, in this process of spiritual march, march towards the spiritual nave, humanity sometimes for want of proper guidance was depraved, was degenerated, and under such circumstances it suffered from the psychology of sinning, a sinning complex. I told you that you must not say, “Oh, Lord, I am a sinner, I am a sinner,” because it will develop the psychology of sinning. If you are not actually a sinner, you will be a sinner if you say this, if you think this. It is a defective psychic approach. And some people exploited this sinning complex of human beings and created so many differences, so many groups, so many diversities, in this human society which is actually a singular entity.” (9)

GOOD PEOPLE WILL STAY AWAY FROM EGO

“Ego is the root cause of downfall. If ego is present then downfall is inevitable. How is ego manifested in individual life? It expresses itself through superiority complex. I am great and everyone else is small, degraded, lowly. “I am superior” – this feeling or thought is called “superiority complex” in English and mahámanyatá in Sanskrit. Due to this sense of ego one behaves poorly with others. For this reason it is said in the scriptures: trińádapi suniicena. For example, a blade of grass remains underneath everyone. It has no ego, yet it possesses more qualities than anyone. Human beings should keep themselves aloof in every way from superiority complex and pride. Good people will stay away from ego. Why will they do so? Good people know what are the causes behind the rise of ego. One person has knowledge, another has money. A good person knows that this money and this knowledge is not theirs; it belongs to Parama Puruśa. Today it has come to me and again it will leave me. I had none of these when I was born and at the time of death they won’t remain with me. For this reason good people will stay away from ego.” (10)

THERE ARE MANY COMPLEXES THAT PLAGUE HUMAN BEINGS

People are prone to various complexes: superiority complex, inferiority complex, fear complex, defeatist complex, sinner’s complex, melancholia, phobia, schizophrenia, and shyness etc. Those who do not suffer from any of these are in a balanced state – samatabhava.

GAINING SUCCESS IN LIFE

We must also remember Baba’s timeless teaching: To do anything o successfully one must have a free mind – a balanced mind. The mind should be free from all complexes.

Baba says, “To attain complete success in life, the fourth principle is samata’bha’va, that is, mental equipoise, mental balance. There must not be any complex in the mind — neither superiority complex nor inferiority complex.” (11)

COMPLEXES ARE A PSYCHIC DISEASE

MENTAL EQUIPOISE IS A GREAT QUALITY

Here Baba furthermore points out the negative nature of complexes and He simultaneously directs us to keep samata’bha’va, mental balance.

Baba says, “Complex of any sort – superiority or inferiority – is a psychic malady, a mental disease. You must maintain a psychic balance.” (12)

Thus mental balance is one central target in life. We should aim for this in all circumstances. Once again, we should be vigilant to keep the mind balanced, by His grace. Psychic equipoise is one of the best attributes a person can have.

Baba says, “Maintaining a balanced mind is one of the greatest virtues. There are no complexes in a balanced mind. One neither feels inferior nor superior to others; one never fears anybody nor ever gets perturbed. One maintains a mental balance.” (2)

So by striving for and achieving mental balance, so many other plus points arise. The mind will be complex-free, enabling people to generate positive relations with one and all. Because when one does not feel that they are better or worse than the next person, then it becomes easy to establish a heart-felt connection. So that is one distinct benefit.

In addition, Baba tell us that when one is in a state of psychic equipoise, they will neither be fearful nor full of anxiety. They will remain in a natural state of ease and contentment – not burdened by any negative tendencies of the mind.

All these positive outcomes are a tremendous boon for human existence.

WHEN SAMATA’BHA’VA IS LOST

In contrast when due to lack of sadhana we are unable to attain a state of equipoise or if we lose that stance of mental balance, then that invites numerous problems for oneself and for others also.

In that case we are unable to weigh the pros and cons of life and end up making poor decisions – lowering our own position and misleading others as well.

For example suppose Ram or Shyam prematurely forms an opinion about others, a conclusion which is completely wrong or off-base. Then that invariably leads to problems and harms others. In that case, in the future nobody will want to listen to Ram or Shyam’s suggestions or guidelines. Then Ram or Shyam’s ability to help others will be severely hampered. Such pitfalls come from a lack of mental balance.

That is why – among other things – Baba warns to stay balanced and not proceed hastily.

Baba says, “Do not judge anyone to be good or bad hastily, nor express your opinion.” (13)

As we can feel, Baba’s specific guideline is that with a cool mind – a balanced mind– we should view all the things in life, otherwise countless problems will crop up.

Considering all the angles, it is clear that keeping the mind free from all complexes is one key point because with a balanced mind we can help ourselves and help others. And that is the greatest utilisation of this human life. Hence as long as we are alive this should be our approach. Here following is Baba’s dharmic mandate.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, “You should remain in this world and do your duty with a balanced mind.” (14)

HOW TO OVERCOME SUPERIORITY COMPLEX

Here Baba supplies us with the special formula for keeping mental balance and not succumbing to any type of superiority complex.

Baba says, “People must always bear in mind that ‘Whatever I have acquired is all by the grace of Parama Purus’a. If He decides that I should not possess wealth [or any other quality etc], He will take it away at any moment He wishes.’ So no one should feel pride about anything under any circumstances.” (15)

By seeing everything as Baba’s fathomless grace then we will not get puffed up with vanity and instead will be able to maintain mental
balance at all times.

HOW TO OVERCOME INFERIORITY COMPLEX

In His below teaching Baba teaches us how to keep mental balance and not fall into the depths of an inferiority complex.

Baba says, “What about the inferiority complex, that makes you think of yourself as inferior to others? You must have noticed that the minds of those who are less educated become a bit diffident: ‘We don’t have much learning.’ Again, those who are poor suffer from a similar diffidence. ‘We are so poor, and have no one to turn to.’ But what causes such diffidence? [They forget that] everyone on this earth is a child of Parama Purus’a; no one is big or small. All are related as brothers and sisters.” (16)

By remembering we are all the beautiful expressions of that Divine Entity Parama Purusa, then no inferiority complex can creep into the
mind. Then we will keep our mental balance.

THIS FEELING IS VERY DANGEROUS

Baba says, “When samata’bha’va [mental equipoise] is lost, then one begins feeling that there is a group of people far inferior to oneself. Such a pattern is to be observed in the case of people who have come to the city from the village. They say that they don’t feel like returning to the village, as the villagers are illiterate and under-developed. This feeling is very dangerous. And if such feelings creep into the mind as a result of having acquired a little intellectual knowledge, the chances of developing this complex are much greater in the realm of spirituality, when a sa’dhaka begins feeling somewhat elevated with the development of some occult powers and the feeling of a little bliss. In the second stage of spiritual practice every sa’dhaka faces this test. One must be very, very cautious, so that vanity may not develop.” (17)

BALANCED MIND NEEDED TO TEACH AND TO LEARN

Baba says, “The third fundamental of education is that teachers and students should have a balanced mind.” (18)

In His above teaching Baba guides us that mental balance is needed in order to both guide and learn from others.

BABA’S BLESSING

Baba says, “In this universe all entities are divine; only people have to realize it. Nobody is helpless or alone in this universe. We have mundane, supramundane and spiritual relationships with the universe. So it is the bounden duty of human beings to expand their mental arena because basically all finite entities have the inherent wont of universal pervasion. Their goal is the Supreme Entity who is free from limitations. Human beings will have to expand themselves so much that they will go beyond the fetters of limitations. There cannot be and should not be an inferiority or superiority complex in anybody. Those who preach individual racial superiority are committing sins. They are going against human dharma.” (19)

Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Mahesh

Note 1: WESTERN PHILOSOPHY IS LAGGING FAR BEHIND

On this key and critical subject of mental complexes and achieving a balanced mind, western philosophy is far, far behind. Only Ananda Marga philosophy can shine such a bright light on this issue.

REFERENCES:
(1) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 7, How Should a Devotee Behave?
(2) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 5, The Social Order and Superiority and Inferiority Complexes
(3) Proutist Economics, Economic Exploitation of Bengal)
(4) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 30, Hara’s Seven Secrets
(5) Subhasita Samgraha – 12, The Noumenal Cause and the Personal God
(6) Ánanda Vacanámrtam – 34, Be Free from All Complexes
(7) Ananda Vacanartam – 12, The Starting Point and the Last Point
(8) Human Society – 2, The Vipra Age
(9) Ananda Vacanartam – 12, The Real Value of the Human Entity
(10) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 9, “Always Do the Kiirtana of the Lord”
(11) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 30, Samatábháva
(12) Kolkata Dec 2 ’79
(13) Caryacarya – 2, ‘Society’ chapter, pt #41
(14) Subhasita Samgraha – 21, ‘Jaeva Dharma & Bhagavata Dharma’
(15) Ananda Vacanamrtam – 16
(16) Discourses on Krsa and the Giita
(17) ‘Dialogue of Shiva and Parvatii- 3’
(18) Prout in a Nutshell, ‘Talks On Education’
(19) A Few Problems Solved – 6, Universality in Race, Language, Religion and Culture

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British Divide & Rule Policy – Split India into 3 Pieces – Gandhi was Tool

Date: Thu, 20 Dec 2012 21:29:47 -0400
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: British Divide & Rule Policy – Split India into 3 Pieces – Gandhi was Tool
From: JULES

Baba

==BRITISH DIVIDE & RULE POLICY – SPLIT INDIA INTO 3 PIECES – GANDHI WAS TOOL

Namaskar,
According to Prout, MK Gandhi committed a major blunder by supporting the partition of India and accepting the communal award in 1932. To break India into pieces, the colonial powers (i.e. the Britishers) introduced the communal award. Specifically this meant that political seats were allocated based on religion and social class etc: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Dalits, businessmen, kings, etc. Each group was given a limited share of the power. The agenda of the colonial powers was to increase tension and instigate infighting amongst all Indians. Their plan was to incite them to attack each other and break India into countless pieces.

As is well documented, in the 19th century, there was harmony between Hindus and Muslims. For centuries they had lived together in India – side by side. For more about this, reference Baba’s book “To The Patriots”.

But after their united revolt against the British rulers in 19th century, those rulers planned to break the unity between the Hindus and Muslims by increasing communal tension. In a very deliberate and calculated manner, the Britishers started granting favours in the form of higher posts, political power and other perks to one community or the other. The aim was to create tension between Hindus and Muslims – as well as with other groups within India.

“ROUND TABLE” CONFERENCES IN LONDON:

BIRTH OF COMMUNAL TENSION

To achieve their agenda, the British rulers hosted three “Round Table Conferences” in London whereby leaders of India’s various communal groups rallied to get their share. This was actually the start of the communal award wherein all stakeholders were invited to London to discuss the allocation of political power in India.

So it was, that in 1932, the Britishers extended limited autonomy to India with the British leaders still controlling the Central Government and having the final say. So now all the groups – Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Dalits, businessmen, kings – had a vote and political seats were granted on a communal basis. This happened gradually over the course of time. This inevitably led to heated competition between these groups in order to gain power.

Thus the united India which had been characterized by a long era peaceful co-existence between Hindus and Muslims gave way to huge tension in the first half of the 20th century. They were no longer thinking of themselves as Indians but as members of their owns caste, clan or group: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Dalits, businessmen, kings etc.

MK Gandhi did not oppose this policy as a whole, but he did oppose a small part. He supported all points of this “communal award” i.e. granting of political power on a communal basis. Gandhi’s only objection was that he did not want Harijans (Dalits) to be separated from the Hindus. He fought for that point and some adjustment happened: The Dalits and Hindus remained together in the communal award. But MK Gandhi supported all other parts of this communal awarded. He accepted the division between kings, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, businessmen. All would get political seats based on their caste and religion etc. MK Gandhi accepted this completely. That time he did not get the clue that the British were trying to poison the country by creating communal rifts.

As tensions mounted, all wanted their autonomy – separate from the greater India. Muslims, Sikhs, kings all wanted to break from India and their raised their battle cry.

GANDHIJI’S DECALARATION

From 1932 to 1947, MK Gandhi assured the country that India will not be divided. He specifically declared: “Over my dead body will India be divided.” Many trusted him on this point. But when heated calls came for the division of India, then MK Gandhi passively accepted the partition of country by keeping maon vrat (vow of silence).

Gandhi’s 2 political disciples – Jawaharlal Nehru & Sardar Patel – plus his friend, Mohammad Ali Jinnah wanted separation. They were getting older and all wanted power quickly. Ultimately they got their power by dividing India. Gandhiji did not oppose them.

All along the the mass of Indians trusted Gandhi to keep the country together. But in the end he betrayed their trust and in result, millions & millions died – and countless others lost their homes, property, and families.

Actually MK Gandhi’s big blunder began in 1932 when the communal power was given to India as an “award”. Then from 1932 to 1947 the fire of hatred grew in India and culminated on 15 Aug 1947 when it reached full maturation. That was the day of the partition of India. What ensued was catastrophic destruction and massacres across India wherein millions upon millions were killed.

GANDHI’S MISSTEPS

Gandhi’s blunder can be broken down into three distinct steps:
(1) The initial acceptance of the communal award; i.e. distribution of seats and granting of political power on a communal basis.
(2) The failure to start an economic justice movement for all communities of India against the ruling Britishers;
(3) The final acceptance of a divided India; i.e. hypocrisy of maon vrata, “vow of silence”.

COMMUNAL AWARD

Indeed the communal award was the British technique to divide both the mind and land of India. During the height of the British Empire , they employed this strategy in so many regions across the globe. This was their trademark tactic: Divide and rule. To achieve this in India, they injected the communal award to create social unrest.

In His various discourses, Baba opposes the communal award which caused the division of India. Baba furthermore states that if Gandhi had not accepted the communal award and instead started an economic justice movement for all Indians, then India would not have been divided – neither mentally nor based on land.

Baba says, “In this fight for independence, the Indian leaders committed a blunder. They should have engaged themselves in an economic fight instead of starting a political movement. The British took advantage of this blunder of the Indian leaders. They got the opportunity to divide India into two parts. They infused in the Muslims the idea that the Hindus formed the majority, and that therefore if the British quit India the government would naturally go into the hands of the Hindus, and the Muslims of the whole of India would remain as their subjects.” (To The Patriots)

Baba also points out that an economic-based movement would have certainly brought political sovereignty as well.

Baba says, “The fight for economic independence would have brought political independence also. There might have been some delay in it, but political independence would have surely come.” (To The Patriots)

But the leaders of the day – Nehru, Jinnah, & Patel – did not want to wait. They wanted political power immediately. And Gandhi did not oppose their wish. So they accepted the communal award in order to start ruling and finally they accepted the partition of India to quickly get more power.

WHY TRUTH WAS NOT PUBLICIZED

So why has this side of the story not been told on a mass scale. Because special interest groups – like capitalists and the western powers – did not want the truth about Mahatma Gandhi to be known. MK Gandhiji was their tool as the socio-economico-politico beliefs of Gandhism goes in the favour of capitalists. So such capitalists want to make Gandhi into a hero. That is the main reason why this history about Gandhi and the communal award has not been truthfully told. Rather it got distorted and covered up. In the west Gandhi is treated as a hero and something divine. And in India the same respect and honor towards MK Gandhi is propagated by the government. But the truth is this.

Note: Those interested in learning more about this can read Baba’s book, “To The Patriots” and His discourse, “The Dangers of Communalism”. Since the discourse, “The Dangers of Communalism”, is very condensed, to enhance your understanding of the partition of India, please read excerpts from this below article by noted journalist, Rajinder Puri. Thereafter excerpts of Baba’s discourse is also noted as well as Baba’s full discourse.

EXCERPTS FROM “MAHATMA GANDHI’S ASSASSINATION

by Rajinder Puri

“On June 3 1947 the Congress Working Committee passed the resolution accepting the Partition of India. There was communal tension but no communal riots to speak of in Punjab. Gandhi observed “maun vrat” (day of silence) on that occasion. He was reportedly isolated by Nehru and Patel and was unhappy. Mountbatten visited him and said he hoped that Gandhi would not oppose the Partition under the Mountbatten Plan. Mountbatten also noted that he was surprised that Gandhi should have observed his day of silence on such a crucial occasion. Gandhi wrote on a scrap of paper his reply: “Have I ever opposed you?” Mountbatten preserved that paper as historical evidence and it is still there in the Mountbatten papers.”

“The riots that escalated after Independence brought about the biggest transfer of populations in recorded history. [Those] who opted to stay on in Pakistan, along with millions of Hindus, were forced to flee to India. An estimated million people were slaughtered in the engineered riots while the police and army stood aside. Over ten million were rendered homeless as they fled their homes to uncharted territory to become refugees.”

“Gandhi became restive and realized his blunder in compromising. He started plans to undo his mistake. The intelligence that kept watch on all activities in Birla House, where Gandhi stayed, was aware of his unhappiness. That is why Mountbatten met Gandhi and advised him not to oppose the Partition. By doing so he would harm the future of Nehru and Patel who were his creations and disciples.”

GANDHI’S DESIRE TO SETTLE DOWN IN PAKISTAN

“Gandhi had already written to Jinnah about his desire to settle down in Pakistan. Jinnah said Gandhi was most welcome and invited him to come to Karachi. But Gandhi decided to travel by road to Lahore and settle down there. Plans were finalized for Gandhi and the fifty families to start their journey to Lahore on February 14, 1948. Exactly one fortnight earlier Godse assassinated Gandhi.”

“The demands for truth about Netaji Subhash Bose are still resonating.”

EXCERPT FROM BABA’S DISCOURSE:

“THE DANGERS OF COMMUNALISM”

Baba says, “During the struggle for independence, a great blunder was committed by Mahatma Gandhi. In order to show his innocence, he said that he would not support the communal award, but nor would he vote against it. That is, indirectly he supported it. What happened to the country after this was due to the himalayan blunder committed by Mahatma Gandhi. At that time he should have said, “No. I do not support the communal award.” He did not say this because his party workers and party leaders were eager to become ministers, so they pressed him for provincial autonomy. But Mahatma Gandhi neither supported it nor opposed it. He committed a great blunder. What has happened in the country after this is the result of what Mahatma Gandhi did. At that time he should have said that we can neither split the country nor disintegrate it. As a result of the communal award, the country was trifurcated into Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. This was the result of the blunder of Mahatma Gandhi, and he did it under the pressure of his party leaders. They wanted to become ministers, as there was scope in the government of India at that time for wresting provincial autonomy, attaining ministership, creating two new provinces – Orissa and Sind – and separating Ceylon and Burma from India.” (Dangers of Communalism)

THE ENTIRE ARTICLE OF RAJINDER PURI

http://www.boloji.com/myword/mw139.htm

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse on January 30, 1948. Godse was accompanied by Narayan Apte. Both were hanged. The two traveled from Bombay to Delhi via Gwalior to perform the murder. Some of the named conspirators in the murder were already under police surveillance because they owned small arms. The authorities therefore must have been aware of the impending danger.

Despite India’s independence the administration remained under British control, run by officers in key posts appointed by the British, with Lord Mountbatten as Governor-General and General Boucher as the Army Commander in Chief. Total British control becomes evident from the Mountbatten Papers in which Home Minister Sardar Patel is quoted repeatedly complaining to Lord Mountbatten that the police and army were abetting the communal riots. Clearly the Sardar was powerless.

After the assassination a leading freedom fighter alleged that the Home Ministry was criminally negligent by allowing the murder to occur. The leader blamed the government and Sardar Patel for allowing the murder to happen. That leader was Jaya Prakash Narayan.

On June 3 1947 the Congress Working Committee passed the resolution accepting the Partition of India. There was communal tension but no communal riots to speak of in Punjab. Gandhi observed “maun vrat” (day of silence) on that occasion. He was reportedly isolated by Nehru and Patel and was unhappy. Mountbatten visited him and said he hoped that Gandhi would not oppose the Partition under the Mountbatten Plan. Mountbatten also noted that he was surprised that Gandhi should have observed his day of silence on such a crucial occasion. Gandhi wrote on a scrap of paper his reply: “Have I ever opposed you?” Mountbatten preserved that paper as historical evidence and it is still there in the Mountbatten papers.

But as India became independent on August 15, 1947 Gandhi became increasingly unhappy. He was sidelined by Nehru and Patel who moved about in ministerial flagged cars. Gandhi was a marginalized figure. The riots that escalated after Independence brought about the biggest transfer of populations in recorded history. Inder Gujral’s father and Bhimsen Sachar, who opted to stay on in Pakistan, along with millions of Hindus, were forced to flee to India. An estimated million people were slaughtered in the engineered riots while the police and army stood aside. Over ten million were rendered homeless as they fled their homes to uncharted territory to become refugees.

Gandhi became restive and realized his blunder in compromising. He started plans to undo his mistake. The intelligence that kept watch on all activities in Birla House, where Gandhi stayed, was aware of his unhappiness. That is why Mountbatten met Gandhi and advised him not to oppose the Partition. By doing so he would harm the future of Nehru and Patel who were his creations and disciples. But Gandhi persevered with his plans. He gathered 50 Punjabi refugee families, most of them housed in Delhi’s Purana Quila camp, and finalized plans to travel to Lahore and settle down there to create peace and harmony between India and Pakistan. Gandhi had already written to Jinnah about his desire to settle down in Pakistan. Jinnah said Gandhi was most welcome and invited him to come to Karachi. But Gandhi decided to travel by road to Lahore and settle down there. Plans were finalized for Gandhi and the fifty families to start their journey to Lahore on February 14, 1948. Exactly one fortnight earlier Godse assassinated Gandhi.

Did Gandhi suspect he would be killed? On the day he was killed he finalized his last will and testament by which he recommended that the Congress Party should be dissolved and converted into a social organization named the Lok Sevak Sangh. Had Gandhi carried out his plan he would have been a nuisance for Mountbatten, Nehru and Patel because he would have worked for Indo-Pakistan reconciliation. He had already been totally marginalized in the Congress thanks to his erstwhile loyalists, Nehru and Patel. But the same Gandhi after death became the global brand image for the Congress Party. Surprisingly there is little or no mention by historians of Gandhiï’s plans to settle down in Lahore. Why? Because his assassination aborted the plan?

For some strange reason Godse’s trial was held in camera. Godse’s defence was not allowed to be publicized by the Indian government. It was whisked away to Britain. One British weekly published it. Years later it was available to those who searched for it. It is now available on the Internet. The demands for truth about Netaji Subhash Bose are still resonating. Should not the truth about Gandhi’s assassination also be reappraised? Godse’s legal defence, which counters several allegations of the prosecution regarding the assassination, could provide a starting point.

ABOUT RAJINDER PURI

For over two decades Rajinder Puri has been a freelance journalist and his work has appeared on regular assignment in all the leading dailies and weeklies of India. He has authored five books on Indian politics.

BABA’S FULL DISCOURSE:

“THE DANGERS OF COMMUNALISM”

20 October 1990, Calcutta

Note: For those who do not have Prout Nutshell Part 18 or do not have access to the Electronic Edition of Baba’s books, here below is the entire discourse.

Is the division of people into castes and communities natural Balkanization or artificial Balkanization? Natural Balkanization is just like one cell becoming two. Artificial fissiparous tendencies are unnatural. So is the division of people into castes and communities a process of natural Balkanization or artificial fissiparous tendencies?

Amongst the inimical forces, there are certain parties which are goaded by certain forces, by the spirit of certain fissiparous tendencies, and there are also some persons goaded by these fissiparous forces. How can this problem be solved? How can we check these belligerent parties from implementing their outdated ideas, which may cause the physical disintegration of the country? What should be done? What should be our short term and the long term policy? The approach should be both physical and psychic. Will simply economic theory do or is something more required? Education is a long term programme. What should be done immediately in the physical and psychic realms? The country is passing through a critical juncture, so you should be well educated.

There is a theory of politics called “divide and rule”. Just to undermine the independence of India, the British government started a programme to encourage communal division amongst the people based on caste, scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, Muslim and non-Muslim. They wanted to encourage divisions between Muslims and non-Muslims. General people, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes – these were the divisions. Our leaders should not have accepted such divisions. Rather, at that time they should have said that preference should be given on the basis of socio-economic backwardness, not on the basis of castes or creeds. But certain political parties were based on caste prejudices or communal sentiments, which is why they supported the British government.

During the struggle for independence, a great blunder was committed by Mahatma Gandhi. In order to show his innocence, he said that he would not support the communal award, but nor would he vote against it. That is, indirectly he supported it. What happened to the country after this was due to the himalayan blunder committed by Mahatma Gandhi. At that time he should have said, “No. I do not support the communal award.” He did not say this because his party workers and party leaders were eager to become ministers, so they pressed him for provincial autonomy. But Mahatma Gandhi neither supported it nor opposed it. He committed a great blunder. What has happened in the country after this is the result of what Mahatma Gandhi did. At that time he should have said that we can neither split the country nor disintegrate it. As a result of the communal award, the country was trifurcated into Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. This was the result of the blunder of Mahatma Gandhi, and he did it under the pressure of his party leaders. They wanted to become ministers, as there was scope in the government of India at that time for wresting provincial autonomy, attaining ministership, creating two new provinces – Orissa and Sind – and separating Ceylon and Burma from India.

Provincial autonomy was promulgated in the year 1935, but it was implemented in 1937. Sind agreed to provincial autonomy because in Sind a particular party, a minority party of India, was in the majority. Orissa was created out of physical convenience rather than mental necessity. It was very difficult for the people of Orissa to go to the capital town Patna, as they had to go to Patna through Calcutta. This is why they demanded that either Orissa should be included in Bengal, or there should be a sepa rate province. Their demand was that Orissa should not remain in Bihar, because in order to go to Patna the people had to travel through Calcutta. The creation of Orissa was not bad, but the creation of Sind was bad. These were the poisonous effects of the enactment of provincial autonomy by the Government of India in 1935.

As an example of the communal approach of the Government of India, take the case of Bengal. At that time reservation in the Bengal assembly was for 250 seats. 250 seats were created as part of provincial autonomy. Of these 250 seats, 120 were for Muslims, 80 were for non-Muslims, 25 were for British merchants – for the British businessmen of Calcutta to contest elections – a few were for Zaminders, a few were for universities, and a few were for labour leaders. The total: 250. In Bengal at that time, 45% of the population was Muslim and 55% was non-Muslim. That is, the land of Bengal was not only physically divided but also mentally divided, as a result of which Bengal was divided on the basis of communal consciousness, which is unnatural. Communalism is unnat ural. Again today, the foolish leaders, the political leaders, are encouraging this very sentiment. And I fear that if it is not controlled in the proper time – it is the most opportune moment to control it – if it is not controlled in the proper time, the country will face further disintegration.

Factually, as per the Government of India plan at that time, India was trifurcated. Bengal was bifurcated. The Punjab was bifurcated. Assam was bifurcated. Sind and North West Frontier Province went out of India. This was the result of the communal award. The foolish leaders, the stupid leaders, supported the communal award. They had not learnt the lessons of history.

The policy was divide and rule. One party said “Jai Hind” and another party said “Takasime Hind.” One party said “Victory to India;” another party said “Divide India.” These were the slogans of the time. It was not a healthy atmosphere. This sentiment was not even geo-sentiment. It was based on emotion and mean selfishness. Henceforward, healthy politics disappeared from India. Nehru supported partition because his dream was to become Prime Minister of the land – of either undivided India or divided India.

Montague Chelmsford saw that the forces were divided and was not sure whom to give power to. In 1935, provincial autonomy was granted. Ceylon and Burma, which were parts of India, are now inimical to India. During partition – during Montague Chelmsford’s time or during 1935 – the Government of India granted autonomy. A senior Muslim leader of India pronounced Montague Chelmsford as “Montague Chilamford” because he could not pronounce “Chelmsford.” At that time there was no mutual faith, there was want of mutual understanding. That is why the country was divided. Otherwise, the British could not have divided the country. There was both physical disintegration and psychic – psycho-social – disintegration for want of proper education.

Most of the minorities could not rely on the Hindu majority of the country. That is why – out of fear complex – they wanted to divide the country. The Hindu minorities of Bengal and the Punjab could not rely on the Muslim majority. That is why they wanted the partition of those two provinces. The same psychology is prevalent today. At that time there was not even a wee bit of political education or political consciousness in the country.

As per provincial autonomy, the Chief Minister of the provinces were known as the Prime Minister. There was no Prime Minister of India. India was loosely controlled by India House, London.

The Native States were beyond the 1935 award. This is the reason why the communal position of the Native States was better than that of the rest of India. There was hardly any communalism in Kashmir where Muslims lived under the Hindu Raj. Similarly, the Hindu majority state of Hyderabad was under a Muslim leader, and there was hardly any communalism. The reason was that the Native States were free from the communal award. The British communal award was not applied there.

Serpents are exhaling venom everywhere… It is the right moment. It is the proper moment. It is the most opportune moment.

Náginiira cáridike fushiteche bishakta nishvas
Shantir lalit vani shonaibe bartha parihas
Bidáy nebar belá tai d́ák diye jai
Danaver sathe járá samgrámer tare prastut hateche ghare ghare.

“Serpents are exhaling venom everywhere. The sweet gospels of peace sound like empty mockery. That is why on the eve of my departure from this world, I send out a clarion call to those who are preparing in every house to fight against the demons in human form.”

Serpents are exhaling venom everywhere. Now at this critical juncture, should we go on preaching the gospels of peace? No, no, no, no! So, before my departure from the world, said Rabindranath, I have made the necessary preparations for the fight against these demons. Do you all follow? What Rabindranath said 60 years ago is also true in this last portion of the twentieth century.

20 October 1990, Calcutta

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’ma’r dukher ra’te ele Prabhu, sukher dine ele na’…” (PS 1563)

Purport:

O’ Prabhu, O’ my dearmost Baba, You have come to me on this most sorrowful night; but, alas You did not ever come to me on my good days. Baba, in this divine liila of Yours You could only be held with my tears – only in those despondent moments did You come within my grasp. Baba, in my darkest hour of pain and misery You came deep inside my heart. In that hopeless moment You did not forget about me and remain out of sight using Your divine play of hide and seek – the befoolery of Your divine liila.

Baba, by Your grace I had so much yearning to serve You. I filled one basket full of spring flowers and I decorated my puja plate to offer You – in the hope of getting You. I wanted to offer those things to You, but that could not be done because You did not come during those joyous occasions. Baba, instead You came and took away my pain.

Baba, in the play of laughter and in the festivity of light, in those blissful times I did not get You. You never came to me on those sweet days of celebration. Baba, by Your grace, in the end, in the cimmerian darkness of this pitch-black amavasya night I got Your divine karuna’ (divine compassion).

Baba, You are everything in my life; please keep me under Your shelter…

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One Should Know This Proutistic Solution

Subject: One Should Know This Proutistic Solution
Date: Tue, 18 Dec 2012 21:57:36 -0000
From:
To: AM-GLOBAL

Baba

== ONE SHOULD KNOW THIS PROUTISTIC SOLUTION ==

Namaskar,
The ongoing, faltering economy continues to be a point of concern in western Europe and the US. One of the central issues is employment / unemployment. Around the globe, people are very worried about losing their job. And in some countries, where unemployment is 25%, such as in Spain, people wonder how they will ever find a job.

It seems day in and day out big corporations are laying off workers and slashing jobs. Even the big guns like Microsoft, Google, and major steel companies are cutting their workforce by the thousands. Unemployment is rising all across this region.

Despite measures to pull western economies out of its downturn for the past 4 years, still there is much turmoil. This is most evidenced by the scarcity of jobs and speed by which workers are losing their jobs.

MYTH & INDOCTRINATION OF CAPITALISM

What many fail to realise is that they have a lot more power to control the situation than they think.

Right now most people have fallen into the myth that jobs exist because big capitalist enterprises exist. Everyone has become habituated, nay brainwashed, into thinking that the corporate giants give birth to jobs. By that way people can work. This is the prevailing myth around the globe, and certainly so in the west.

This creates an extreme feeling of dependence among the workforce. People feel as if they are powerless to create their own work situation, as if their job is just a product of that capitalist system.

But that is not so.

A GREAT WAY TO KEEP JOBS ALIVE

In the corporate model, it is the workers and managers who know how to do the job and it is the owners / capitalists who exploit them to make a profit. Most often, the owners have less or no ability to do that specific work themselves. This is a key point that everyone must understand.

At present, if a worker wants to keep his job, he has to ensure that the owner is making a sufficient profit, otherwise the worker may lose his job. That is the scary situation.

Here comes the key point. Let’s say one owner feels that he is no longer making enough money, or that his business interests have changed, or moved to China, and therefore he wants to shut down a factory. What workers and managers can do is to keep that factory or business open and make it into a cooperative where they all own part of the business.

After all, by themselves they can do the work. They know what needs to be done and how to do it. They have the know-how and training. All they lack is the ownership. And that can be easily gotten.

There are two ways for this to happen: Either they can organise amongst themselves and buy out the owner. Or the government can intervene and help empower workers and managers to become the owners, by creating a congenial atmosphere wherein cooperatives will grow and not collapse.

There is precedent for such types of turnovers and this is certainly going to be one key ways that we move from a capitalist economy to a cooperative economy. This is Baba’s guideline.

Prout philosophy says, “In the world today different socio-economic systems are in vogue, but none of these systems are based on coordinated cooperation. Rather, in these systems social relationships are mainly based on subordinated cooperation, resulting in the degeneration of society’s moral fabric…PROUT supports the implementation of the cooperative system because its inner spirit is one of coordinated cooperation. Only the cooperative system can ensure the healthy, integrated progress of humanity, and establish complete and everlasting unity among the human race.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14)

GOVERNMENT MUST INTERVENE

Governments, like the US, have been pumping hundreds of billions of dollars in the form of stimulus packages in order to save or rescue the dying capitalist structure.

If that same money were used to help workers and managers turn their industries into cooperatives, then that would be a boon for the society. As the capitalist system crumbles, politicians and economists will be forced to move in this direction.

Till that time, it is our duty to highlight Prout’s cooperative model. Baba wants that there should be cooperatives in all the spheres of economic life: Agriculture, farming, producers, and consumers etc.

When government gets involved in helping workers and managers create their own cooperatives, then that will certainly help in creating a smoother transition. Government officials will have to nurture cooperatives and bring about a congenial environment for their growth.

This will be one excellent way of fighting unemployment. At present unemployment increases whenever ownership feels dissatisfied with their profit margin. But when people realise that they can organise the business among themselves and all make a reasonable income, then they will no longer be at the mercy of those capitalists.

It will be advantageous for governments to help make this a reality because it goes in their favour to have citizens who work rather than have a large sector of the population that is unemployed.

FORMING COOPERATIVES

Here Baba provides some insight as to how the cooperative model will develop. The following is an example related with agriculture. However, the same principles apply to all fields of economic life.

Prout philosophy says, “Cooperative members should form a board of directors for each cooperative. The board should decide the amount of profit to be divided among the members; that is, the dividend to be paid to each shareholder. However, the total profit should not be distributed in the form of dividends – some should be kept for reinvestment or purchasing items such as tractors, manure, etc.; some should also be used for increasing authorized capital; and some should be deposited in the reserve fund. The reserve fund should be used to increase the value of the dividend in the years when production is low. If this system is followed the authorized capital will not be affected.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14)

Baba has graciously laid down a very practical and attainable plan. So no one feel overwhelmed; this is not a daunting task. Rather, this is well within reach. After all, the employees already know how execute the work of their company. All they need to learn is how to organise themselves into a functioning cooperative.

Already some visionary companies have begun to form themselves in this way. As the economic downturn continues, cooperatives will be the key way that people can save their jobs. If we spread the ways of Prout, the cooperative system will be a natural resultant due to pressure of circumstances.

DEFECT OF CURRENT CAPITALIST MODEL

The capitalist model is full of loopholes: The middle man, profit-motive above all else, exploitation of workers, exploitation of resources, etc All these are glaring defects of capitalism.

Now corporate ventures may use profits from one business to keep another business afloat, or they may use profits for extravagant merriment for the bosses etc. Or so many selfish things may be done with the profits. Rarely does it go back into the enhancement of the business itself and betterment of the workers. Rather it feeds the greedy owners.

This is a dead end street and the ways that Baba has described above about the cooperative system are far more dynamic and beneficial.

CAPITALISM KILLS ITSELF

In this economic downturn, capitalists complain and justify that because there is not sufficient demand for their products, then “How can I hire anyone.” What they fail to realise however is that they themselves are the cause. Because they swallow up all the profits and do not pay their laborers a decent salary, then those laborers do not have any money to spend. When laborers do not have purchasing capacity, then there will not be demand for the products produced by capitalists. In which case they will not hire anyone. It is a vicious cycle – all a result of capitalist greed.

In contrast, in the cooperative system, the profits get shared among the workers. Their income is thus higher than in the capitalist system. More precisely, they have greater purchasing capacity. In turn, they will spend money on products and services that they need. Money will roll and the economy will not be stagnant. With increased buying power, demand will also rise, and hence there will be plenty of jobs.

So the cooperative system is diametrically opposite to the capitalist system on many levels, including employment / unemployment. The capitalist system creates unemployment whereas the cooperative system heightens employment.

A key example of this is how Apple and other big US corporations have, in total, 2 – 5 trillion dollars in bank accounts, i.e. cash on hand. Those corporations do not want to invest that money because they are not confident that they will get a good return. So they are just sitting on their profits.

Yet, side by side, unemployment stands at nearly 8% in the US. Those companies are not hiring, even though they have stockpiles of cash. Because they do not feel that there will be demand – it will not be profitable.

This is a clear-cut manifestation of how US capitalism is on the pathway to killing itself. The money does not roll but rather stagnates, leading to higher unemployment and decreased purchasing capacity for the populace. The problem of economic stagnation worsens and the economy spirals further downward. That is the tale of capitalism’s death.

MUST THINK OUT OF THE BOX

So then why hasn’t society begun to move on a mass-scale towards the cooperative system? The answer is simple. People are not familiar with it. Certainly they have heard the name, but they remain unfamiliar with how a cooperative functions.

Generally people only think within that paradigm in which they were born. Muslims can only fathom worshiping Allah and no other. Christians think that Christ is the only way. Those who grew up eating meat feel that slaughtering animals is the only way to fill their stomach. People get stuck or trapped in a particular outlook.

That is why in capitalist countries, people think that jobs can only be born from corporate entities. Even the government has fallen for this myth. That is why they are using all the brain-power and financial wealth to stimulate the corporate cycle all over again.

Soon though they will see that this will not work. Capitalism is a dying breed and another system is needed.

So we should get the ball rolling in the direction of Prout. We should be properly educated, ready, and inspired to show the people how cooperative can be used to save themselves from the depths of unemployment. All they need is a little bit of light to see that something else is out there. Then they will come running.

Once people understand and see how the cooperative system can save their livelihood and given them new life, such cooperatives will spring up in each and every corner of this earth.

PROUT IS ON THE HORIZON

The day is not far off – rather it is quite near – when the policies and programs of Prout will be embraced from the people. As people shake themselves free of the current myths of capitalism, they will naturally turn towards the direction of Prout.

“People should work to enjoy sweeter fruits by establishing the cooperative system. PROUT raises the slogans: “We want cooperatives”.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14)

Namaskar,
in Him,
Balakrsna

Note 1: MORE PROUT TEACHINGS ON THE COOPERATIVE SYSTEM

“In the modern world the cooperative system is the best system of agricultural and industrial production. In the cooperative system members can pressurize the government because of their collective strength and gain financial help and various facilities to increase production. They can pressurize the government to provide better irrigation facilities and high yielding seeds and even make infertile land productive. Land with little fertility can be transformed into fertile farm land with proper care. This will increase total agricultural production and also help a country become self-sufficient in food production and cash crops, freeing it from food shortages. In addition, plots of land on the same level and of the same fertility can be turned into larger single plots by removing all dividing boundaries. However, if the land is undulating and varies in fertility, the division of land may be maintained, otherwise land cannot be properly irrigated.” (Proutist Economics, Cooperative Production)

“Industry, agriculture, trade and commerce – almost everything – needs to be managed, as far as possible, through cooperative organizations. For this, special facilities will have to be provided to cooperative organizations whenever necessary. Adequate safeguards will have to be arranged, and slowly private ownership, or the system of individual management, will have to be eradicated from specific areas of agriculture, industry, trade and commerce. Only those enterprises which are difficult to manage on a cooperative basis because they are either too small, or simultaneously small and complex, can be left to individual management. Similarly, the responsibility for those enterprises which cannot be conveniently managed on a cooperative basis because they are either too large, or simultaneously large and complex, can be undertaken by the immediate state government (in the case of a federation), or by the local body (in the absence of a federation). It is desirable that the management of industrial, agricultural, trade and commercial enterprises not be in the hands of the central government or the world government (after the establishment of the world government). If it is, the common people will not get the direct or even the indirect opportunity to participate in the management of these enterprises. In such cases capitalists, opportunists or self-seeking politicians can easily take control of them and misappropriate public wealth.” (Problems of the Day, pt #11)

“Regarding cooperatives, we must not forget that cooperatives only function properly under a strong government. They cannot function under a weak democratic structure. Before starting cooperatives a psychological environment has to be created. In the Proutistic structure rationalization means less labour, more leisure and more comfort. In order to safeguard the interests of these cooperatives in the field of industry, it has to be emphasised that key industries should be run by the government so that there will not be any occasion for a tool down and the consequent closure of subsidiary industries in the cooperative sector. However, slogans calling for the cooperative movement are untimely in the present system as the psychological background is lacking. If cooperatives are established at the present time, they will simply cause losses to the national wealth. It may be questioned whether it is desirable for a government to engage in commercial concerns, and if so, how can the labour problems in such concerns be solved permanently? In principle governments should not run commercial concerns, but in those cases where it is not possible to run a concern on a cooperative basis, the government should take the lead. However, such concerns should be mostly assembly factories. The manufacture of component parts for these assembly factories should be done through industrial cooperatives. In extreme cases, where industrial cooperatives are unable to manufacture certain components, they should be manufactured by the government. In such concerns there will be no net profit because it is often the question of profit which creates labour problems. The cost of production may be suitably reduced to make it a no-profit, no-loss concern. It is, however, necessary to keep both financial and commercial accounts to ensure that the concern does not run at a loss. If any loss occurs in such a factory it should be converted into an industrial cooperative.” (Talks on Prout)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’ma’r ghare tumi ele, cale gele keno…” – P.S. 778

Purport:

Baba when You have come to my house then why did You leave. If You had the desire & plan to go within such a short period, then why did You bother
to come. It is so unbearable and painful for me.

You ignited and illuminated thousands of stars in this vast sky. And as I look towards them in this dark midnight hour, they are all encircling around me and questioning me that why I allowed You to go. What can I say – I told them that in the future You may be coming again.

Now it is dawn. Look, the night jasmine is lying in the dust, crying in frustration. It cannot speak because of the cold weather; but it is crying in longing for You. The same thing has happened to the lotus flower in the pond. It does not like to bloom anymore; it is still crying in longing.

Baba, O’ my Dearmost, when You Yourself took trouble to come to my house then why did You leave so soon…

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Shopping Addiction

Date: 06 Dec 2012 21:09:56 -0000
From: “Pranatosh Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Shopping Addiction

Baba

== SHOPPING ADDICTION ==

Namaskar,
For those who may not know, just two weeks back, Nov 23, was “Black Friday” – the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States.

This year was marked by the tragic beating and death of one shoplifter, as well as the usual huge crowds, pushing, shoving, and all-night shopping etc. In years past, shoppers engaged in a heinous pepper-spraying incident & shootings, store employees were crushed to death by stampeding customers, and other violent acts – all done in the quest for discounted shopping. For those who wish to know more about these incidents and the Black Friday phenomenon, please read the addendum at the bottom of this letter.

Our chief duty here is to examine why all this is going on.

WHY ARE SUCH THINGS HAPPENING

We can say with cent-per-cent certainty that the only reason such antics are occurring – and the only reason that Black Friday even exists – is because people are not aware about our Proutistic teachings.

If people had known about our Proutistic outlook, they would not have rushed out in the middle of the night to grab silly, useless products – which in most cases they do not even need. These shoppers are addicted to pseudo-culture and video games etc; in that way, they are spending their hard earned money on Black Friday.

We have to remember here that these shoppers are not starving, hungry people rushing for food as happens in so-called 3rd world countries where people run to grab the minimum necessities of life. That is just not the case in this scenario. People are harming others and risking death just to purchase video games, toys, x-tra gadgets, and other silly things that they do not need. They are purchasing these items with the false hope of gaining psychic satisfaction – happiness. This is the unfortunate mind-set in extremely materialistic societies like the USA. When people are sad they go shopping to “feel better”. In this way, they accumulate so much stuff that they will never ever use. Side by side, they remain depressed. Because shopping is no cure for melancholia or sadness. The teachings of Prout guide us that happiness and contentment come through spiritual practice, not materialistic pursuits.

On so many fronts, the common people in the US are victims of capitalism. It is our duty to educate them and heighten their awareness.

Here is Baba’s key teaching.

Baba says, “Psycho-economy has two branches. The first branch endeavours to eradicate exploitative and unjust economic practices, behaviours and structures. It will counter all economic and psycho-economic exploitation and make people aware of how capitalists, in their singular or collective roles, exploit society and create unhealthy, artificial demands which not only poison the mind but encourage dangerous habits detrimental to psychic sanctity and expansion. The first and foremost duty of psycho-economics is to wage a tireless fight against all degenerating and dehumanizing economic trends in society.” (A Few Problems Solved – 7, Quadri-Dimensional Economy)

The critical issue is that if the common people were educated about Prout and had a better idea of what it means to be a smart consumer, then they would not get caught in the sticky web spun by capitalists. Then they would not get caught up in the madness of Black Friday.

As noted above, Baba has given psycho-economy as one part of a healthy economy. A key aspect of psycho-economy is to fight exploitation and educate the public about the tricky and greedy ways of capitalists. So that is what we must do.

Indeed, if people were aware about how they are getting cheated by capitalists and that they do not need all this useless merchandise, they would not run in that direction, i.e. into a shopping frenzy. If people clearly understood the sham, senselessness, and destruction related with Black Friday, then it would be obliterated. Indeed Black Friday itself would be no more.

SOLVING THE PROBLEM WITH PROUT

Here are some very simple, clear-cut guidelines which need to be conveyed to the public if they are to escape from the exploitation of capitalism.

1. Firstly, in day-to-day life people should not buy useless things and unneeded products. In essence, people must break the habit of shopping for shopping’s sake. This is not the proper outlook. People must be taught to critically analyse their shopping habits and not get lured into purchasing more things that they do not need.

In the US, it is quite common for people to purchase many things only to watch those items collect dust and never get used. Those purchases are placed in some closet and forgotten. Some people even collect so much stuff that their big house gets over-filled and they die when those items fall on them and suffocate them. They become absolutely inundated with piles of objects and items in all directions. This is the sad yet stark reality:

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/unique-disease-growing-in-usa.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/re-unique-disease-growing-in-usa.html

Typically speaking, one US family has enough possessions for an entire village in India. They buy something, keep it for a few months, and then put it in some closet or even the garbage – yet that item is unused. The whole world produces and the US consumers collect. Then one fine day they put their purchases in the garbage and that garbage is burned or buried in the US, placed in landfills or left to rot in poorer states of the US, and in some cases shipped to so-called 3rd world countries.

2. People must be able to easily recognise and rationally analyse the way capitalists dupe the public into buying those things they do not need. If they understand the cheating psychology and marketing schemes by capitalists then they are much less likely to be exploited.

3. When the general society is getting wholly submerged in the degenerating ways of Black Friday, then as Ananda Margiis we should take up the task of awakening and teaching the people able the ills and trappings of capitalism.

4. Essentially, everyone needs to understand the degenerating spiral of running after money, spending it senselessly, only to then again lust after more money. This negative cycle needs to be checked. This is the very harmful mind-set capitalists have infused on the people, and Black Friday is just one key evidence of this.

5. By seeing how kids and families are affected, we can understand the severity of the situation. The general populace, i.e. consumers, thinks that spending money is one of the main joys and thrills of life. That is all they know. In that case, when Black Friday rolls around – with so many “special deals” – the people literally lose their common sense and turn into shopping fiends. The irony is that often cases Black Friday “deals” are not good deals at all. Consumer experts have found that often those items were cheaper other times of the year. Plus, capitalists mark up prices 100 times the actual cost. They purchase things from China for pennies and then put a big price tag on it in the US. Even on Black Friday, capitalists are taking a 20-fold or 50-fold profit. Even then, the masses are whipped up into a frenzy to shop, shop, and shop.

6. The common citizens must be taught that shopping does not bring mental satiation. Limited objects cannot satisfy the mind; sadhana is needed. Under the prodding of capitalists, the common people are indoctrinated into the belief that physical objects and products will enable them to feel and be happy.

Such is how the top capitalists have impaired the common people. They have tainted their entire psyche and put them in eternal debt. People get into debt by buying things they do not need with the false hope of attaining happiness, and then borrow money or apply for credit at a 20% to 40% to even 100% interest rate. It is all one vicious cycle. That gets repeated again and again.

So the people need to be awakened to and introduced to the ideals of Prout. Then and only then will they be able to stand up remove the noose of this Black Friday mentality and capitalism.

CONCLUSION

The main conclusion is that in day to day life one must not purchase useless items or get duped by false propaganda telling them to buy, buy, buy via all kinds of psychological and tricky selling techniques. To do so is to merely become a pawn of capitalism.

As Ananda Margiis we are to awaken the masses and guide them on this key issue to bring about the struggle and fight against vaeshyan (capitalist) exploitation

Please report similar things in your area.

Namaskar,
Pranatosh (Phillip) Deva

Note 1: ADDENDUM ON BLACK FRIDAY:

THE VIOLENCE THAT TAKES PLACE

Basically Black Friday is a shopping frenzy where stores open in the wee hours of the morning or even the night before and offer huge discounts to attract shoppers. In turn, hoards of consumers line-up outside the store and wait for it to open. There is huge tension and angst to be the first one into the store. As soon as the doors open, customers engage in a “rat-race” type of stampede to get their items of choice. It is absolute chaos.

As mentioned above, one shopper this was beaten and killed by store employees. Here is that story:

“An alleged shoplifter died after being detained by store employees…The man was allegedly put into a choke hold as he attempted to fight employees, but the extreme methods used to subdue and detain the suspect ultimately caused his death. When police and the ambulance arrived, the man was unresponsive and bleeding from his nose and mouth. He was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.”

http://www.christianpost.com/news/black-friday-shoplifter-death-and-other-past-shopping-sales-incidents-the-worst-ever-85623/

Here are details of past incidents on Black Friday:

(1) A shopper in California pepper-sprayed several other shoppers in an incident now described as “competitive shopping” wherein the the woman was trying to grab desired items and keep other shoppers from getting those same products.

(Note: Pepper spray, also known as OC spray (from “Oleoresin Capsicum”), OC gas, and capsicum spray, is a lachrymatory agent (a chemical compound that irritates the eyes to cause tears, pain, and even temporary blindness). Its inflammatory effects cause the eyes to close, taking away vision, creating temporary blindness. Although considered a less-than-lethal agent, it has been deadly in rare cases.)

Basically the aisles of the Walmart were jammed full of people and display stands of products had been knocked to the ground. People were just stepping on the merchandise in an attempt to get to other products. In that desperate, crowded situation, one woman used pepper-spray to ward off other shoppers. Those affected suffered rashes, burns, swollen faces and worse. It was a horrible scene – both young and old were harmed.

(2) A few shoppers were shot by gunmen as they left stores with bags in hand in incidents now thought to be robberies. Basically, thieves waited outside the store in dark parking lots and assaulted shoppers in order to steal all that they bought.

Such are the types of extreme incidents that are occurring. Each year these types of things happen, or worse. Sometimes store employees have been killed by a human stampede, and there have been other tragedies as well.

Two links below show some of the most horrific incidents from Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year.

http://www.ranker.com/list/13-most-brutal-black-friday-injuries-and-deaths/john-barryman

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Friday_%28shopping%29#Violence

Note 2: BABA’S GUIDELINES ON HUMAN THIRST AND SATIATION

Baba says, “Can human thirst be fully quenched? Can human hunger be fully satisfied? Why is it that human thirst knows no limitations? From PROUT we are moving to psycho-philosophy. In the relative world human thirst cannot be satisfied. Human beings are the progeny of the Supreme Progenitor, therefore human thirst is unlimited. All the properties of the Supreme are ensconced in human existence, and not only in human existence, but in each and every entity of the expressed universe. Can physical thirst, psychic thirst and spiritual thirst be quenched? Only spiritual thirst can be quenched. Unification of the unit with the Cosmic can quench the spiritual thirst. The physical body has certain limitations. It functions within very strict limitations. The mind has a far bigger jurisdiction, but it is also limited.” (Prout Nutshell – 17, Minimum Requirements and Maximum Amenities)

Baba says, “According to PROUT the mental pabulum of human beings is never ending. In this universe everything moves, thus our pabula are also moving and are never static. Human demands in the physical stratum can never reach the saturation point. Similarly, our psychic thirst will never be satisfied. It is ever changing.” (Prout in a Nutshell – 14)

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Marma mathiya’ hiya’ niuna’riya’ ele tumi a’j ogo manomaya…” – P.S. 377

Purport:

O’ my dearmost Baba, after making me cry and breaking my heart, after such a long, long time You came close. Baba, by Your divine and charming arrival so much beauty has come in this world – everyone basks in Your glory.

Baba, in the beginning of this creation, there was no expression, You were unexpressed. You remained transcendental yet then You came in the form of the creation of these three worlds. And You graced everyone by showering them with Your sweet attraction.

So in the beginning there was nothing. There was not any existence of good or bad. Neither truth nor untruth. Neither meagre nor vast – nothing was there. There was not even the existence of day or night. Just You were alone. But then You graced everyone by expressing Yourself and creating this vast and colorful universe.

O’ Baba, the Parama Purusa Your liila is infinite…

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Who Should Procreate & Who Should Not

From: “Jaggadnath Deva” jgd@aurora…
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Who Should Procreate & Who Should Not
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2012 01:02:18

Baba

== WHO SHOULD PROCREATE AND WHO SHOULD NOT ==

~ THE WORLD POPULATION IS NOT A PROBLEM; THE PROBLEM IS SOMETHING ELSE ~

Namaskar,
Baba’s below teachings from His divine discourse “Population Growth & Control” are very important. We should keep them in mind. At present in this material world, across the planet leaders and thinkers are propagating ideas that are polar opposite.

The more we are able to put forth Baba’s ideals on this topic, all kinds of problems will be solved, especially as the common people are educated about the following:

1. Sterilization operations are detrimental to body and mind.
2. How the global population plateaus.
3. Food production & types of food.
4. No Dearth of wealth in the world.
5. Scaring others about overpopulation is a conspiracy of western interests.
6. Global Phenomenon: Why economically underprivileged produce more children at present.
7. Who should produce children and who should not.

These are very important points which Baba has uniquely given.

Today, the media, governmental bodies, big business people, community leaders, members of the public, and heads of state tell the exact opposite. So their understanding is far from the ideals of Ananda Marga. It is our duty to bring these ideas forward.

Here then is Baba’s divine discourse…

Namaskar,
in Him,
Jaggadnath Deva

Population Growth and Control
date not known

The socio-economic environment of society today is extremely restless and disturbed. In this abnormal environment population growth has been projected as a menacing threat to the existence of human society, but in fact this sort of propaganda is nothing but an evil conspiracy engineered by vested interests. No problem is greater than the human capacity to solve it. Like all problems confronting humanity, the problem of population growth should be tackled and solved in a proper way.

In the natural course of evolution, birth and death maintain the continuity of the never ending flow of creation. Every day, with the birth of babies, the parents and the other family members naturally enjoy great happiness. But it is a matter of sorrow that there are some people in the government or other spheres of public life who consider the increase in the birth rate a curse on the society. This negative attitude is definitely a blot on the human race, which has achieved a degree of intellectual development and scientific knowledge.

Population Growth

Is the population problem really a natural problem? The population problem should be considered in the context of two vital factors – the availability of food and the availability of space. Today human beings have sufficient means to manage their food. The earth is abundant enough in food resources to feed many times more than the present population. Due to lack of coordinated cooperation, collective effort, a proper ideology and sound planning, society has been fragmented into many belligerent groups and sub-groups, and rich and poor nations have been created. As a result of this fissiparous tendency, society is presently incapable of producing enough food to meet human requirements. The tragedy is that even though there are enough resources to supply nutritious food to all the human beings on the planet, due to the defective socio-economic systems, an efficient method of distribution has not been developed.

Moreover, there is no shortage of living space on the planet if the existing space is properly utilized. Because the earth has been balkanized due to so many arbitrary social, economic and political restrictions and the pervasive influence of evil dogma, people are unable to tackle problems in a natural way. If there were maximum utilization and rational distribution of all natural resources, pressing socio-economic problems could be easily solved.

It is a law of nature that a mother is provided with sufficient breast milk to feed her newly born baby. In the same way nature has generously provided sufficient resources to meet the food and other essential requirements of all human beings. People need to utilize these natural resources in a proper way. Shortages of food or space cannot be blamed on nature. These problems are essentially the results of the mistakes made by human beings.

It is a fact that the population of the world is rapidly increasing, and consequently many people have become frightened. In capitalist countries there are sufficient reasons for such fear. In these countries an increase in the population means a corresponding increase in the poverty of the people. But there is no reason for such fear in a collective economic system. In the event of shortages in food and accommodation people will collectively convert barren land into arable land, increase agricultural production by scientific methods and produce food by chemical processes using the potentiality of earth, water and air. And if this earth loses its productivity, then human beings will migrate to other planets and satellites and settle there.

If people living in capitalist countries voluntarily adopt birth control methods to avoid economic hardship, perhaps we should not criticize them. But it should be mentioned here that using birth control methods which deform the bodies of men and women or destroy their reproductive powers forever cannot be supported, because this may cause a violent mental reaction at any moment.

PROUT’s Solution

Under the present socio-economic conditions, PROUT advocates a comprehensive, clear-cut policy to tackle the population problem. According to PROUT, population growth will automatically find a natural level if the following four factors exist in society.

First, there should be economic liberty in society so that people may get a nutritious diet. In Scandinavia, for example, the purchasing capacity of the people is high and they enjoy a good standard of living. Because of this they do not face the problem of overpopulation.

Secondly, everybody should have the right to enjoy sound health. If people have a healthy body and mind their glandular system will remain balanced, and they can easily transform their physical energy into psychic energy and their psychic energy into spiritual energy. Through this effort of channelizing the mind in a spiritual direction, the baser mental propensities are easily controlled.

Thirdly, people should be free from unnecessary mental worries and anxieties. When one suffers from mental agonies continually, the mind naturally indulges in baser physical enjoyment to get rid of that unwanted condition. When mental agonies disappear, human beings will enjoy peace of mind and be able to assimilate subtle ideas.

Fourthly, the intellectual standard of humanity will have to be elevated. With intellectual advancement human beings will develop their all-round psychic potentiality and can easily evolve their psycho-spiritual potentiality. Through continuous effort human beings will be able to attain the supreme stance, merging their individual unit existence into Cosmic existence.

Thus, the population problem is not just an economic problem – it includes economic, biological, psychological and intellectual aspects.

Today people give more importance to the political than to the bio-psychological and economic aspects of population growth.

The theory that population increases at a geometric rate while food production increases at an arithmetic rate is completely defective. Such a situation can only occur in an imbalanced economic system. In a progressive and balanced economic system no such problem will exist.

Collective Economy

It is completely wrong to propagate the idea that a rapidly increasing population will affect the collective economic structure. Today capitalists are trying to check population growth by propagating birth control because an increasing population is detrimental to capitalism. In a collective economic structure there will be no need to support birth control. Rather, an increasing population will help in the production of the essential commodities.

Good varieties of seed, fertile land, adequate nourishment, light, air and water are all essential for good reproduction in both the plant and animal kingdoms. In this respect human beings are no different from other creatures. In human society the selection of suitable males and females is desirable for reproduction of a high order. Until human beings are produced in scientific laboratories, it will be detrimental to society if this matter is neglected.

If people of sublime intelligence and brilliance reproduce more offspring, it will be very beneficial for society. The responsibility for nurturing and bringing up these children will have to be taken by the society or the government. Similarly, it will be harmful for society if mentally deficient, naturally delinquent or insane persons produce many children. In fact, society will be benefited by the permanent destruction of their reproductive capacity, providing this does not cause any harmful reaction.

Science has reached such a stage that it can usher in a new era. It can produce synthetic food in the form of tablets to help solve the food problems of the world. A single food tablet can be sufficient to provide sustenance for a whole day, so we need not fear population increases. Future generations will spend more of their time and energy on subtle psychic and spiritual activities, so their demand for physical food will decrease.

Through oceanographic research abundant food resources have been discovered within the ocean and on the sea bed. With the application of science and technology we can harness these resources to meet the challenge of the food problem. The crisis faced by society today indicates that humanity is not encouraging the maximum utilization and rational distribution of the world’s potentialities. Science today is being used to develop increasingly destructive weapons of war rather than for benevolent and constructive purposes.

Society will have to adopt a collective economic system for maximum production and economic security in order to control accumulation; ensure the rational distribution of collective wealth through a well-knit cooperative system; implement decentralized socio-economic planning; and secure the maximum utilization of all types of mundane, supramundane and spiritual potentialities. So far society has not adopted such an approach so it has been unable to solve the food problem.

Instead, certain inhuman birth control practices have been forcibly promoted. Not only are such practices detrimental to a healthy human body and mind, they cause physical deformity, disturbances and misunderstandings in family life, and mental derangement and debility. Those inflicted with such psychic ailments lose the courage to face adversity in life and the power to fight for social justice.

Imposing a fear of population growth is nothing but a cunning conspiracy by vested interests to misguide people and exploit society. Optimistic people throughout the world will have to unite and raise their voices against such a heinous conspiracy, and work together to construct a just and benevolent society.

date not known

A Few Problems Solved Part 9
Prout in a Nutshell Volume 3 Part 13 [a compilation]
Proutist Economics [a compilation]

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Toma’re khunjechi tiirthe marute…bujechi rayecho manete.” (P.S. 2203)

Purport:

Oh Lord, because of my blindness, in the past I was searching You in various tiirthas, religious places, and in the caves of treacherous mountains – but unfortunately, I could not find You anywhere. In return, I only got frustration, pain and agony. You remained still further. In this way, I wasted so much time and money, and invited only frustration.

I did not understand that You are very close and intimate to one and all. So in my ignorance I was searching You in various places. This was my
blunder.

Baba, by Your grace today samvit [1] has come in my mind. Now my eyes are open. By Your grace, I realise that You are remaining and smiling
always in my heart, in my mind…

END NOTE FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #2203:

[1] samvit = force of awakening (by vidya maya / positive maya)

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