Vasant Navratri: The Nine Holy Nights of Spring

(16^th Mar – 24^th Mar ‘10)

Navratri (”nava” + “ratri”) literally means “nine nights”. This ritual is observed twice a year, in spring and in autumn. “Vasant Navratri” is nine days of fast and worship that Hindus undertake during spring every year. Vasant Navratri is also known as “Ram Navratri” because Ram Navami falls on the ninth day of Chaitra month.

The scriptures say, “I bow again and again before Maa Jagadambaa (Mother of the universe), abiding in all beings and objects in the form of energy.”

God manifests Himself in numerous shapes and forms. One of them is that of the Mother. The manifestation of Supreme Brahman in the form of power, compassion, forgiveness, and benevolence has been termed as Maa (Mother), and Navratri is the time to adore and worship the Mother in her various forms.

The Mother’s Grace is boundless. Her mercy is illimitable, Her knowledge infinite; Her power is immeasurable, Her glory ineffable and Her splendor indescribable. She gives us material prosperity as well as spiritual freedom.

In the ‘Srimad Devi Bhagawat’, it is written that one desirous of knowledge, wealth and begetting a son should meticulously observe the Navratri Vrat, which has the power of returning the kingdom to a dethroned king. Shri Rama worshipped Durga at the time of the fight with Ravana, to invoke Her aid in the war. He fought and won through Her Grace. It was also on this day that Arjuna worshipped Devi, before starting the battle against the Kauravas on the field of Kurukshetra.

The festival of Navratri should be celebrated with great fanfare through the rendition of devotional songs, music and dancing. One should sleep on the ground. One should offer food to as many young girls as one can afford to feed. But girls less than one year of age cannot be considered. Only girls from the age of 2 to 10 years can be served food on this occasion.

One unable to observe fast on all Navratri days should fast on the 7th, 8th and 9th lunar days (22-24^th Mar’10) and worship Goddess Durga. This affords religious merits of observing a fast on each of the Navratri days.

Night vigil during Navratri is beneficial when there are discussions according to the guidelines of the scriptures, the mind is cheerful, a pious lamp is lit throughout the night before Goddess Durga’s idol, and there is devotional chanting of the Divine Mother’s pious name with music. Saatvik dance should be performed, not disco or some other western dance.

The worship of Devi, the universal Mother, leads to the attainment of knowledge of the Self. Hinduism is the only religion in the world which has emphasized to such an extent the motherhood of God. One’s relationship with one’s mother is the dearest and the sweetest of all human relations. Hence, it is only proper to look upon God as mother.

SALUTATIONS to the Divine Mother, Durga, who exists in all beings in the form of intelligence, mercy, beauty, who is the consort of Lord Shiva, who creates, sustains and destroys the universe.

It is the devout Hindu’s duty to perform the worship of Devi for both material and spiritual welfare during the Vasanta Navaratri, and follow the noble example set by Lord Rama. One cannot achieve anything without the Divine Mother’s blessings. So, sing Her praise and repeat Her Mantra and Name. Meditate on Her form. Do worship. Pray and obtain Her eternal Grace and blessings. May the Divine Mother bless us all with divine wealth!

Makar Sankranti (14th Jan’2010)

Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious days for the Hindus, and is celebrated in almost all parts of the country in myriad cultural forms, with great devotion, fervor & gaiety. It falls on the 14th of January every year according to the Solar Calendar. Lakhs of people take a dip in places like Ganga Sagar & Prayag, and pray to Lord Sun. It also commemorates the beginning of the harvest season and is celebrated as Pongal in the southern parts of India; in Punjab, it is celebrated as Lohri & Maghi.

Makar means the Capricorn and Sankranti is transition. There is a sankranti every month (on the last day of every month of the Hindu calendar) when the sun passes from one sign of the zodiac to the next. There are twelve signs of the zodiac, and thus there are twelve sankrantis as well. Each of these sankrantis has its own relative importance, but two of these are more important - the Mesh (Aries) Sankranti, and the most important, the Makar (Capricorn) Sankranti. Transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn, during the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere is known as Makar Sankranti. From this day, begins the six-month long period called Uttarayan, considered very auspicious for attaining higher worlds hereafter.

From Uttarayan, starts the ‘day’ of Devtaas (Gods), while Dakshinayan is said to be the ‘night’ of Devtaas. So, most of the auspicious things are done during this time. There is another significance of this day. After this day, the days start becoming longer & warmer, and thus the chill of winter in on the decline.

Makar Sankranti is the day when the glorious Sun-God begins its ascendancy and entry into the Northern Hemisphere, and thus it signifies an event wherein the Sun-God seems to remind their children that ‘Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya‘, may you go higher & higher, to more & more Light (Knowledge) and never to Darkness.

To Hindus, the Sun stands for knowledge, spiritual light and wisdom. Makar Sankranti signifies that we should turn away from the darkness of delusion in which we live, and begin to enjoy a new life with bright light within us to shine brighter and brighter. We should gradually begin to grow in purity, wisdom, and knowledge, even as the Sun does from the Day of Makar Sankranti.

A well-known reference of this day came when the great grandsire of Mahabharata fame, Bheeshma Pitaamah, declared his intent to leave his mortal body on this day. He had the boon of Ichchha-Mrityu (death at one’s own wish) from his father. So, he kept lying on the bed of arrows struck by Arjuna, till this day, and then left his mortal coil on Makar Sankranti day.

It is believed that the person, who dies during the period of Uttarayan, becomes free from transmigration (cycle of births & deaths). So, this day is seen as a certainty for good luck to start your journey or endeavors to the higher realms beyond.

Sun Therapy

Nowadays, many medical scientists after studying the glory of the compassion and benedictions of Sun God, are bringing forth stunning results by employing it in the medical field.

Dr. Hej Heuki says, “The rays of the Sun are more beneficial than medicines. The medicines destroy the useful bacteria along with the harmful ones.” Dr Hej Handrik found out through experiments that the rays of the Sun quickly penetrate into the body and increase its resistance towards diseases.

A scientist called Gardener Roni incurred wonderful benefits from Sun-therapy. He writes, “The body becomes so strong by Sun Therapy that it ejects the harmful bacteria and becomes capable of protecting itself on its own.” Gardener Roni cured many patients by using the Sun-therapy. For a healthy & disease free life, one should bathe his body regularly in the sunlight such that the sun rays fall on the body daily for at least 5-8 minutes on the front, and for 8-10 minutes at the back.

The son of Lord Shri Krishna, Saamb was suffering from various disorders of skin and digestion. Finding that he was not reviving, Shri Krishna said to him, “I obtained a good health and various other benefits by worshipping the Sun-God. I meditated on Sun-god and performed Sun-bath after doing pranayama etc. in its rays. Saamb! You should also worship the Sun.”

Lord Shri Krishna advised his ill son, Saamb to do Sun-bath, to offer libation to Him (the Sun) and perform Surya-Namaskara, and ultimately to meditate on him in the space between both the eyebrows (bhrikuti). Saamb was restored to health by following this.

The scientists are saying now, but five thousand years back, the father of all scientists, Lord Shri Krishna, and even before Him, our rishis had already told about the health-restoring qualities of the Sun. But we don’t worship the Sun just for this that we may be rendered health, that the rays would provide Vitamin-D on entering through the skin and thereby cure skin diseases. The Sun-bath will undoubtedly bring about material benefits, but our outlook is not restrained only to the mortal body by gaining material benefits. The rishis of India have their eyes set on realizing the Self, the Lord, and these additional benefits shall come along without restraint.

The Glory of Hinduism

HINDU RELIGION

Silent adorations to Satchidananda Para-Brahman, Who is the silent Witness of all minds, Who is the Indweller in all beings, Who has projected this world for His own Lila or sport, Who is the support for this world, body and mind and all movements, and Who is the foundation for all societies and their activities.

PURPOSE OF RELIGION

The word Religion comes from the Latin word “religio” which consists of two words, viz., re (back) and ligare (to bring or bind). That which binds the soul back to God is religion. Religion shows the way for the attainment of God-realization.

Religion satisfies the deep inward craving in man who is not always content with leading merely an animal existence and wants spiritual consolation, solace and peace. Man cannot live by bread alone. A time comes in the life of many of us when mere worldly prosperity does not satisfy us and we hanker after something more. In the case of many more, trials and tribulations of life turn their attention to spiritual solace.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF HINDUISM

A REVEALED RELIGION

Hinduism is the religion of the Hindus, a name given to the Universal Religion which hailed supreme in India. It is the oldest of all living religions. This is not founded by any prophet. Buddhism, Christianity and Mohammedanism owe their origin to the prophets. Their dates are fixed. But no such date can be fixed for Hinduism. Hinduism is not born of the teachings of particular prophets. It is not based on a set of dogmas preached by a particular set of teachers. It is free from religious fanaticism.

Hinduism is also known by the names Sanatana-Dharma and Vaidika-Dharma.

Sanatana-Dharma means eternal religion. Hinduism is as old as the world itself. Hinduism is the mother of all religions. Hindu scriptures are the oldest in the world. Sanatana-Dharma is so called, not only because it is eternal, but also because it is protected by God and because it can make us eternal.

Vaidika-Dharma means the religion of the Vedas. The Vedas are the foundational scriptures of Hinduism. The ancient Rishis and sages of India have expressed their intuitive spiritual experiences (Aparoksha-Anubhuti) in the Upanishads. These experiences are direct and infallible. Hinduism regards the spiritual experiences of the Rishis of yore as its authority. The priceless truths that have been discovered by the Hindu Rishis and sages through millennia constitute the glory of Hinduism. Therefore, Hinduism is a revealed religion.

A RELIGION OF FREEDOM

Hinduism, unlike other religions, does not dogmatically assert that the final emancipation is possible only through its means and not through any other. It is only a means to an end and all means which will ultimately lead to the end are equally approved.

Hinduism allows absolute freedom to the rational mind of man. Hinduism never demands any undue restraint upon the freedom of human reason, the freedom of thought, feeling and will of man. It allows the widest freedom in matters of faith and worship. Hinduism is a religion of freedom. It allows absolute freedom to the human reason and heart with regard to questions such as nature of God, soul, creation, form of worship and the goal of life. Hinduism does not lie in the acceptance of any particular doctrine, nor in the observance of some particular rituals or form of worship. It does not force anybody to accept particular dogmas or forms of worship. It allows everybody to reflect, investigate, enquire and cogitate. Hence, all sorts of religious faiths, various forms of worship or Sadhana, and diverse kinds of rituals and customs, have found their honorable places side by side within Hinduism and are cultured and developed in harmonious relationship with one another.

The religious hospitality of Hinduism is proverbial. Hinduism is extremely catholic and liberal. This is the fundamental feature of Hinduism. Hinduism pays respects to all religions. It does not revile any other religion. It accepts and honours truth—wherever it may come from and whatever garb it may put on.

THE GLORY OF VEDANTA AND YOGA

Vedanta, or the philosophy of the Upanishads, is lofty, sublime and unique. The Western philosophers have paid their tribute to the ancient seers of the Upanishads. They have been amazed at the lofty heights scaled by them.Schopenhauer studied the Upanishads and meditated on the thoughts of the Upanishads just before going to bed. He said: “The Upanishads are the solace of my life and they will be solace to me after my death also.”

The Raja-Yoga system of Hinduism is also splendid and unique. The lessons are immensely practical and highly instructive. No system of physical exercise on the surface of the earth can compete with Hatha-Yoga. Kundalini-Yoga is wonderful. Hence the Americans and Europeans are in search of Hindu Sannyasins and Yogins. They visit the Himalayas frequently in quest of Yoga teachers. Some are living under Hindu Yogins as disciples and are practicing Yoga. Many Europeans and Americans are even now Hindus by faith and practice, though they are born Christians. They practice Raja-Yoga and Vedanta.

EMPHASIS ON PRACTICE

Hinduism provides spiritual food and Yoga Sadhana for all sorts of people to suit their temperaments, capacities, tastes, stages of spiritual development and conditions of life. It prescribes Yoga Sadhana even for a scavenger or a cobbler to attain God-realisation, while doing his ordinary avocation in the world.

Hindu Yoga and Vedanta teachers lay great stress on self-restraint, Tapas, renunciation and practical Sadhana which is best calculated to control the mind and the senses and unfold the divinity or attain Self-realisation. Hinduism is not a religion of mere theories. It is eminently practical. In no religion you will find such a variety of practical Yoga practised and such sublime unique philosophy expounded. That is the reason why India is the only glorious land of sages, Rishis, Yogins and saints.

THE SPIRITUAL SOIL OF INDIA

India is the sacred land which has given birth to countless sages, Rishis, Yogins, saints and prophets. India is the land that has produced many Acharyas or spiritual preceptors like Sri Sankara and Sri Ramanuja; many saints like Kabir, Ramdas, Tukaram and Gauranga Mahaprabhu; many Yogins like Jnana Dev, Dattatreya and Sadasiva Brahman; and many prophets like Buddha and Nanak. Buddha is our flesh and blood.

India is proud of Guru Govind Singh and Sivaji. India is proud of king Bhoja and Vikramaditya. India is proud of Sankara and Kabir. India is proud of Valmiki and Kalidasa. Krishna, Rama and all Avataras were born in India. How sacred is India! How sublime is India! The dust of Vrindavan and Ayodhya, the land trodden by the sacred feet of Krishna and Rama, still purifies the heart of countless people. Even Jesus, during the missing period of His life, lived in Kashmir and learnt Yoga from the Indian Yogins. Glory to Mother India!

It is in India alone that every man knows something of philosophy. The cowherd who tends the cattle, the peasant who ploughs the fields, the boat-man who pulls at his oar, sing songs replete with philosophical truths. Even the barber repeats OM NAMAH SIVAYA, SHIVOHAM before he takes up the razor. The Paramahamsa Sannyasins, the itinerant monks of Hinduism, have disseminated the highest of Vedanta from door to door. In exchange for a handful of rice, they have distributed from door to door, through religious songs, the priceless gems of Hindu religion and philosophy.

Every country has its own special attractive features. India is the land of Yogins and sages. This is the special attractive feature of India. This is the reason why people from America, England and all parts of the world come to India for the practice of Yoga.

REASONS FOR SURVIVAL OF THE HINDU RELIGION

Muslim emperors ruled India for seven hundred years. The British ruled India for two hundred years. Some joined Islam through force. The Muslim emperors and the British were not able to convert the whole of India. Still the glory of Hinduism persists. The culture of Hinduism prevails. Nothing can shake its greatness and root.

Hinduism is neither asceticism nor illusionism, neither polytheism nor pantheism. It is the synthesis of all types of religious experiences. It is a whole and complete view of life. It is characterized by wide toleration, deep humanity and high spiritual purpose. It is free from fanaticism. That is the reason why it has survived the attacks of the followers of some of the other great religions of the world.

No religion is so very elastic and tolerant like Hinduism. Hinduism is very stern and rigid regarding the fundamentals. It is very elastic in readjusting to the externals and non-essentials. That is the reason why it has succeeded in living through millennia.

The foundation of Hinduism has been laid on the bedrock of spiritual truths. The entire structure of Hindu life is built on eternal truths, the findings of the Hindu Rishis or seers. That is the reason why this structure has lasted through scores of centuries.

ITS FUTURE

The glory of Hinduism is ineffable. It has within it all the features of a universal religion. Its Dharmas are universal. Its doctrines are sublime. Its philosophy is grand. Its ethics is soul-elevating. Its scriptures are wonderful. Its Sadhanas or Yoga-Vedantic practices are unique. Glorious has been the past of this religion; still more glorious is its future. It has a message to give to a world rent asunder by hatred, dissension and war—the message of cosmic love, truth and non-violence, the gospel of unity of Self or Upanishadic oneness.

Hinduism stands unrivaled in the depth and grandeur of its philosophy. Its ethical teachings are lofty, unique and sublime. It is highly flexible and adapted to every human need. It is a perfect religion by itself. It is not in need of anything from any other religion. No other religion has produced so many great saints, great patriots, great warriors, great Pativratas (chaste women devoted to their husbands). The more you know of the Hindu religion, the more you will honour and love it. The more you study it, the more it will enlighten you and satisfy your heart. The more you know of India and Hinduism, the more will you come to regard and love it and the more grateful to the Lord will you be in that you have got a taste for practicing Yoga and that you are imbibing the teachings and spirit of Hinduism.

Glory to India! Glory to Hinduism! Glory, glory to the Rishis and the seers who have kept burning the flame of Hinduism with its extreme effulgence and splendor!

Kindness comes back to You in Greater Measure

“It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely help another without helping oneself”, said R. W. Emerson.

Life is a boomerang, whether it is our thoughts, actions or behavior. Sooner or later they return, and with great accuracy. The act of serving and giving brings the greatest sense of satisfaction and purifies the mind.

Swami Vivekananda once advised a leading businessman John Rockefeller to donate for a public cause. Swami explained to him that God had given him all his wealth in order that he might have an opportunity to help people and do good. Rockefeller reluctantly handed over his first cheque for public welfare. “Well, there you are,” he said to Vivekananda, “You can thank me for it.” Swamiji then said softly, “No sir, it is for you to thank me.”

Swamiji pointed out that it was the receiver who obliged the giver by accepting and not the other way round. Since men are images of the super consciousness, one must be able to see in the receiver an image of God.

Giving does not refer to giving alms out of pity for the needy. It refers to the spontaneous service in response to the dictates of the heart. You don’t need to be an eminent person to serve; all you need is a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love. In fact, we should be grateful to God for being in a position where we can serve others, because by helping others, we are helping ourselves too.

A world renowned psychiatrist was once asked, “What would you advise someone if you know that the person was going to have a nervous breakdown?”

He replied, “I would advise that person to find someone in need and help that person. This will help in getting out of your own way.”

Being kind and helping others brings a sense of gratification. It raises one’s self–worth and makes one feel good. An act of kindness is always returned and it comes back to you in a greater measure. We should, therefore, always extend a helping hand without seeking rewards. They follow automatically. We must remember that ‘service’ is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.

***

“The holy teachings that come from the mouth of godly men seem to be uttered by those men themselves, but in reality they proceed from God.”

- Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa

“The Grace of the Guru is like an ocean. If one comes with a cup he will only get a cupful. The bigger the vessel the more one will be able to carry. It is entirely up to him.”

- Ramana Maharishi

गुरु गोविन्द दोनों खड़े, काके लागूँ पाय |
बलिहारी गुरु आपने, गोविन्द दियो बताये ||

Translation: Guru and God both appear before me. To whom should I prostrate? I bow before Guru who introduced God to me.

- Sant Kabirji

“Even the Vedas will fail to sing the glory of Guru who is the torch-bearer of wisdom. Grace of Lord takes the form of a Guru. God and Guru are in truth one and the same.”

- Swami Sivananda

(Satsang is in Hinglish (Hindi written in English)

1.Kisi ko gareebi mitaani ho, daridrata mitaani ho

Kisi ko gareebi mitaani ho, daridrata mitaani ho, to bilkul pakka upaay hai; varsh mein ek do baar somvati amavasya to ho hi jaayegi; somvati amavasya ka intazaar karo; somvati amavasya ke din 108 baar agar tulsi ki parikrama karte ho, Omkaar ka thoda jap karte ho, Surya Narayan ko arghya dete ho; yeh sab saath mein karo to achha hai, nahin to khaali tulsi ko 108 baar pradakshina karne se tumhaare ghar se daridrata bhaag jaayegi; yeh Skand Puraan mein vachan likha hua hai; yeh Puraan ki baat bilkul sachhi hai, usmein sandeh nahin karna chahiye;

Note: Next Somvati Amavasya is on 16th Nov’09.

2. Kamjori mitaana ho, shareer balprad banaana ho

Kamjori mitaana ho, svaasthya laabh ke din aa rahe hain, shareer ko balprad banaao -

10 gram kaaley til chabaa lo, aur thanda paani piyo; 2 ghantey tak kuch khaao piyo nahin; shareer mast banega;

3. Jo Bachhe hain, vidyarthi hain, unka shareer majboot karne ke liye

Raat ko chaney bhigo lein, subah un chanon mein paalak, gobhi, dhaniya, aadi masaala kaat ke daal dein; aur vo chaney chaba chaba ke khaayein bachhe; aur dopahar ke khaane ke baad pakka ek ya do kele khaayein; bachhey majboot hongey;

4. Jinko khoon ki kami ho

Lohe ke bartan mein paani garam karo, phir peene laayak ho vo piya karo; is se hameoglobin badhega; doodh bhi usi mein ubaalo, daal bhi usi mein banaao; is se bhi khoon banega;

5. Kayi Bimaariyaan dur karne ke liye prayog

Do chhuaarey ek vyakti ke liye dhoke beej nikaal ke doodh mein daal do; doodh mein paani daalo; dheemi aanch pe doodh ubley;dheemi aanch mein ubley huey doodh mein vo chhuaarey ublengey; chhuaarey ke bahut saarey laabh hain; un laabhon ka main varnan karunga to bahut samay jaayega;

hemant ritu - 23 Oct - 20 Dec’09 tak; in dinon shareer ko banaane waley bhojan ka upyog karna chahiye;

200g doodh hai (chhuaarey wala), usmein agar 200g paani daalo to vo doodh pitt-naashak ho jaayega;

100g paani daalte ho to vaayu naashak ho jaayega;

Agar 300g paani daaltey ho to kaf naashak ban jaayega;

Dheemi aanch par chhuaarey vala doodh aap ubaalo; vo khaare (chhuaarey) kha lo aur doodh pi lo, aapke chehre par saundarya, kaanti, veerya ki pushti, hriday aur fefdey ka bal, aur mahilaayen piye to aniyamit maasik dharm ki gadbadi (door hogi); aur bhai piyein to svapandosh, raktchaap (blood pressure), kamar ka dard, mankok  ki gadbad, mankon ki gap, kabjiyat, aadi ki shikaayat door ho jaayegi, baal ghaney aur lambey honey lagengey;

Agar raat ko aisa doodh peete ho to svar sureela hoga; aur raatri ko kuch log bistar mein seeti bajaa dete hain (bistar gila kar dete hain) - aise bachhe ya aise logon ke liye bhi yeh chhuaarey wala doodh aashirvaad roop ho jaayega;

6. Maansik tanaav kyon hota hai?

a. Apne mann ki nahin hoti - beta mera kehna nahin maanta, patni mera kehna nahin maanti; falaana mera kehna nahin maanta, beti mera kehna nahin maanti; us baat ka baar baar chintan karne se maansik tanaav hota hai;

b. Shakti se adhik parishram karne se maansik tanaav hota hai;

c. Vaat, pit aur kaf ki vishamta se bhi maansik tanaav hota hai;

In sabhi musibaton ko hataane ke liye, maansik tanaav door karne ke liye Bhagvad katha bahut kaargar hai; aur bhaartiya padhati se svar ka gyan ho to aise cassette ho, vo bajaayein, aur usmein bhi Bhagvaan ka naam ho; mansik tanaav dur karne ke liye, darbaari raag, khajaam raag, malhaar raag, aadi raagon se bhi faayda hota hai;

7. Jiske jeevan mein shushkta ho, khushi na ho, uske liye Nootan Varsh ka Tohfa

Aaj nootan varsh ka ek aur vishesh naveen tohfa, jo Maharishi Chyavan ne khoja hai;
Jiske jeevan mein shushkta ho, khushi na ho, vo yeh naya tohfa sun jaaye - Tripti Pranaayaam -

Chayavan rishi ki khoj hai, poora shvaas bhar le, aur ek aat baar Guru Mantra jap kar le, aur jor se foonk maar ke ashaanti, niraasha aur sookhepan ko ravaana kar de; aise 50 se 100 pranayam kar le; 1-2 din mein hi jeevan mein tripti ka ehsaas honey lagega; rookhapan sookhapan bhaag jaayega; sah tripto bhavati, tripti pranaayaam; aaj is nootan varsh ka naya tohfa hai tripti pranayam;

pehle daye-baye se shvaas liya chhoda 10 baar; baad mein dono nathunon se shudh havaamaan mein shvaas bhara; aur Guru Mantra ek baar japa aur anand anand chintan kiya  aur foonk maarke ashaanti, atripti ko baahar feink diya; poora shvaas bhara aur ek do baar Guru Mantra japa aur shvaas muh se nikaal diya, 50-100 baar aisa karo; aapke jeevan mein usi samay tripti prasannta honey lagegi, kitna badhiya tohfa hai; aaye haaye;

Aur Somvati Amavasya aaye to tulsi jo ko 108 pradakshina karne se dhan dhaanye mein barkat aa jaayegi;

8. Kabjiyat, thakaan, aadi door karne ke liye

Agar ashvini mudra kar sakte ho, baith ke, let ke bhi, shvaas baahar feink diya aur shauch jaane ki jagah ko sankochan vistaran kiya, kabjiyaat ki bimaari, thakaan aadi sab bhaag jaayega;

9. Jo log motey hain, heavy duty hain, kamar thakti hai, mankey aisa hai, vaisa hai, acidity hai, aadi..

To Surya ke kiranon mein 10-15 praanayam karo; aur shvaas rok kar (yeh mantra japein) -

Naasey rog harey sab peera,
Japat nirantar Hanumat beera;

1 minute shvaas roko, phir shvaas chhod do; phir, shvaas baahar roko 40 second aur phir shvaas le lo; aise 10 shvaas lo, bas;

10. Tumor, Heart Attack, Blockage ka Bhaye ho

1 gilaas gunguna paani, usmein 1 nimbu milaa do, 30 tulsi ke patton ka ras daal do; haftey mein do baar piyo, kul 15 baar piyo, heart attack ka bhaye gaayab; blockage ka bhaye gaayab; tumor ka bhaye gaayab; thakaan gaayab;

Note: This Satsang transcript is from Param Pujya Sant Shri Asaram Bapuji’s Satsang held in Ahmedabad on New Year (Nootan Varsh, 19th Oct’09). You may watch the complete Satsang online by clicking here

Devotee Prahlad decided to battle with Lord Vishnu!

The Narsimha incarnation of Lord Vishnu had killed Hiranyakashyapu (Prahlad’s father) and sent him to his own Vaikuntha Dhaam (the place where Lord Vishnu Himself stays). He made Prahlad the king and He Himself disappeared after that.

Prahlad saw this form of God, but he had not yet realized the True-Self of God.

After some time, Shukracharya, the teacher of the demons, created a doubt in Prahlad’s mind and said:

“Prahlad! Lord Vishnu killed your father. You had asked for His protection. Did you ask Him to kill your father?”

“No, I did not ask Him to kill my father,” said Prahlad.

“When you did not ask, then why did He kill him? Lord Vishnu could have changed the evil mind of your father! Why did He kill him?”

Prahlad had strong faith in Lord Vishnu, but when one meets people who are capable of shaking the faith, then the faith vanishes. A spiritual aspirant comes across many such people in his life. One will meet somebody who would have doubtful questions about spiritual practices, Guru Mantra, God, Satguru or spiritual discourses. If we do not meet somebody, then contradictions may arise in our mind itself. That is why faith is not able to stay forever.

The faith of Prahlad was shaken by Shukracharya. Shukracharya said to Prahlad: “Vishnu killed your father and still you pray to him. This is blind faith!”

Now Prahlad said to Shukracharya: “If you say then I’ll take revenge from Vishnu.”

Prahlad started calling the omniscient Lord Vishnu after preparing his army to fight against the Lord.

God cannot see the downfall of His devotee. The kind Shri Hari (Vishnu) took the form of an old brahman and went to meet Prahlad.

“Prahlad! Let there be your welfare! I’ve heard that you are taking revenge from the killer of your father. I, the old brahman, am also ruined by Vishnu.” The Lord talked ill about Lord Vishnu and said, “I have come to support you in your battle against Vishnu.”

The brahman asked: “Do you know where Vishnu stays?”

Prahlad: “He is present everywhere. He is sitting in the hearts of all.”

Brahman: “Oh foolish Prahlad! How will you destroy that which is present everywhere in the hearts of all? It seems that you are stupid in the same way as I am. You’ve taken an evil pledge after being influenced by Shukracharya. I’ll dig this stick into the ground, and then if you are able to take that out, that will mean that you have the strength to fight with Vishnu.”

Prahlad got up & tried to take that stick out with one hand, and then with two hands, applied all his strength, but the stick did not come out. As Prahlad bowed to pull the stick, his self-pride became less, and he realized that this brahman is no ordinary person. Prahlad was actually a devotee, he had been misled. His mind came to senses and he said to the brahman respectfully:

“O Brahman! Who are you?”

Lord said: “One who does not know himself cannot know Me completely. One who does not know itself and Me will keep wavering in this world like a small twig in the water. You have lost your peace of mind from the day you surrendered to bad thoughts. The person who makes an ill-decision is always sad.”

Now Prahlad understood that the brahman was his Lord. He fell on His feet & asked for forgiveness. Then the Lord whose heart is filled with love for His devotees said:

“You forgive me. You had made such preparations to fight with me!”

At one time, Hiranyakashyapu tried his best, but could not move the strong faith of Prahlad, but at another time, Shukracharya was able to pollute the mind of Prahlad with his apparently sweet language.

Till the time one does not realize the omnipresence of God, one does not get over the feelings of attachment & separation, one does not see others same as himself, one’s faith & level of spiritualism will keep fluctuating. When the faith of devotees like Prahlad can shake, then O Spiritual Aspirant! You save yourself from the circumstances, the people, and the negative turmoils of mind which make you slip on the road to spiritualism & God.

Who is your wife? Who is your son? Exceedingly wonderful, indeed, is this empirical process! Of whom are you? Who are you? Whence have you come? Oh brother, think of that truth here.

सत्सङ्गत्वे निस्स्ङ्गत्वं निस्सङ्गत्वे निर्मोहत्वम् |
निर्मोहत्वे निश्चलतत्त्वं निश्चलतत्त्वे जीवन्मुक्तिः || (9)

Through the company of the good (saints), there arises non-attachment; through non-attachment there arises freedom from delusion; Through delusionlesness, there arises steadfastness; through steadfastness, there arises liberation in life. 

वयसिगते कः कामविकारः शुष्के नीरे कः कासारः |.
क्षीणेवित्ते कः परिवारः ज्ञाते तत्त्वे कः संसारः || (10)

When youth is spent, what lustful play is there? When water is evaporated, where is the lake? When the money is gone, what dependents are there? When the Truth is known, where is samsara?

मा कुरु धन जन यौवन गर्वं हरति निमेषात्कालः सर्वम् |
मायामयमिदमखिलं हित्वा ब्रह्मपदं त्वं प्रविश विदित्वा || (11)

Take no pride in your possession, in the people at your command, in the youthfulness that you have. Time loots away all these in a moment. Leaving aside all these, after knowing their illusory nature, realize the state of Brahman and enter into it.

दिनयामिन्यौ सायं प्रातः शिशिरवसन्तौ पुनरायातः |
कालः क्रीडति गच्छत्यायुः तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशावायुः || (12)

Day and night, dusk and dawn, winter and spring come repeatedly; Time sports, life is fleeting; yet one does not leave the winds of desire.

द्वादशमञ्जरिकाभिरशेषः कथितो वैयाकरणस्यैषः |
उपदेशो भूद्विद्यानिपुणैः श्रीमच्छन्करभगवच्छरणैः || (12 a.)

This bouquet of twelve verses was imparted to a grammarian by the all-knowing Shankara, adored as the Bhagavadpada.

काते कान्ता धन गतचिन्ता वातुल किं तव नास्ति नियन्ता |
त्रिजगति सज्जनसं गतिरैका भवति भवार्णवतरणे नौका || (13)

O Distracted One! Why worry about wife, wealth? Is there not for you the One who ordains? In these three worlds, it is only the association with good people (saints) that can serve as the boat to carry one across the sea of birth & death.

जटिलो मुण्डी लुञ्छितकेशः काषायाम्बरबहुकृतवेषः |
पश्यन्नपि चन पश्यति मूढः उदरनिमित्तं बहुकृतवेषः || (14)

The ascetic with matted locks, the one with his head shaven, the one with hairs pulled out one by one, the one who disguises himself variously with the ochre - colored robes - such a one is a fool, who, though seeing, does not see. Indeed, this varied disguise is for the sake of the belly.

अङ्गं गलितं पलितं मुण्डं दशनविहीनं जतं तुण्डम् |
वृद्धो याति गृहीत्वा दण्डं तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशापिण्डम् || (15)

The body has become worn out. The head has turned grey. The mouth has become toothless. The old man moves about leaning on his staff. Even then he leaves not the bundle of his desires.

अग्रे वह्निः पृष्ठेभानुः रात्रौ चुबुकसमर्पितजानुः |
करतलभिक्षस्तरुतलवासः तदपि न मुञ्चत्याशापाशः || (16)

In front, there is fire; at the back, there is the sun; in the night, (the ascetic sits) with the knees stuck to the chin; he receives alms in his palms, and lives under the trees; yet the bondage of desire does not leave him.

कुरुते गङ्गासागरगमनं व्रतपरिपालनमथवा दानम् |
ज्ञानविहिनः सर्वमतेन मुक्तिं न भजति जन्मशतेन || (17)

One goes on pilgrimage to the place where the Ganga joins the sea; or observes the religious vows with care; or offers gifts. But if he be devoid of knowledge, he does not gain release - according to all schools of thought - even in a hundred lives.

सुर मंदिर तरु मूल निवासः शय्या भूतल मजिनं वासः |
सर्व परिग्रह भोग त्यागः कस्य सुखं न करोति विरागः || (18)

Living in temples or at the foot of trees, sleeping on the ground wearing deer-skin, renouncing all idea-of-possession and thirst-to-enjoy - to whom will not dispassion bring happiness?

योगरतो वाभोगरतो वा सङ्गरतो वा सङ्गविहीनः |
यस्य ब्रह्मणि रमते चित्तं नन्दति नन्दति नन्दत्येव || (19)

Let one revel in Yoga or let him revel in Bhoga (sense-enjoyment). Let one seek enjoyment in company or let him revel in solitude away from the crowd. He whose mind revels in Brahman, he enjoys, verily, he alone enjoys.

भगवद् गीता किञ्चिदधीता गङ्गा जललव कणिकापीता |
सकृदपि येन मुरारि समर्चा क्रियते तस्य यमेन न चर्चा || (20)

For him, who has studied the Bhagavad Gita even a little, who has sipped at least a drop of the Ganga water, and who has performed the worship of the Destroyer of the demon Mura (viz. Shri Krishna) at least once, there is no quarrel with Yama (the Lord of Death).

पुनरपि जननं पुनरपि मरणं पुनरपि जननी जठरे शयनम् |
इह संसारे बहुदुस्तारे कृपयाऽपारे पाहि मुरारे || (21)

Again birth, again death, and again lying in mother’s womb – this samsara process is very hard to cross over. Save me O destroyer of Mura (Lord Krishna), through Thy infinite kindness.

रथ्या चर्पट विरचित कन्थः पुण्यापुण्य विवर्जित पन्थः |
योगी योगनियोजित चित्तो रमते बालोन्मत्तवदेव || (22)

The Yogin who wears but a godadi (shawl made of rags), who walks the path that is beyond merit and demerit, whose mind is joined in perfect Yoga with its goal, he revels (in God-consciousness) – and lives thereafter – as a child or as a madman.

कस्त्वं कोऽहं कुत आयातः का मे जननी को मे तातः |
इति परिभावय सर्वमसारम् विश्वं त्यक्त्वा स्वप्न विचारम्  || (23)

Who are you? Who am I? From where did I come? Who is my mother? Who is my father? Thus enquire, leaving aside the entire world which is comparable to a dream, and is essenceless.

त्वयि मयि चान्यत्रैको विष्णुः व्यर्थं कुप्यसि मय्यसहिष्णुः |
भव समचित्तः सर्वत्र त्वं वाञ्छस्यचिराद्यदि विष्णुत्वम् || (24)

In you, in me, and elsewhere too, there is but one Vishnu (God). Being impatient, you are unnecessarily getting angry with me. See the Self in all things, and leave off everywhere ignorance which is cause of difference.

शत्रौ मित्रे पुत्रे बन्धौ मा कुरु यत्नं विग्रहसन्धौ |
सर्वस्मिन्नपि पश्यात्मानं सर्वत्रोत्सृज भेदाज्ञानम् || (25)

Make no effort to be either at war with, or in league with, enemy, friend, son, or relative. If you want to attain the status of Vishnu (Godhood) soon, be equal - minded towards all things.

कामं क्रोधं लोभं मोहं त्यक्त्वाऽत्मानं भावय कोऽहम् |
आत्मज्ञान विहीना मूढाः ते पच्यन्ते नरकनिगूढाः || (26)

Leaving off egocentric desire, anger, greed and delusion, make self - inquiry: Who am I? They are fools who are without Self-knowledge: as captives in Hell, they are tortured.

गेयं गीता नाम सहस्रं ध्येयं श्रीपति रूपमजस्रम् |
नेयं सज्जन सङ्गे चित्तं देयं दीनजनाय च वित्तम् || (27)

The Bhagavad Gita and the Sahasranama should be sung; the form of the Lord of Lakshmi should be always meditated on; The mind should be led towards the company of the good; and wealth should be shared with the needy.

सुखतः क्रियते रामाभोगः पश्चाद्धन्त शरीरे रोगः |
यद्यपि लोके मरणं शरणं तदपि न मुञ्चति पापाचरणम् || (28)

One easily takes to carnal enjoyment; afterwards, lo, there is disease of the body. Even though in the world the ultimate end is death, even then man leaves not his sinful behavior.

अर्थमनर्थं भावय नित्यं नास्तिततः सुखलेशः सत्यम् |
पुत्रादपि धन भाजां भीतिः सर्वत्रैषा विहिआ रीतिः || (29)

Wealth is no good: Thus reflect always. There is not the least happiness therefrom: This is the truth. For the wealthy, there is fear even from the son; everywhere this is the way with wealth.

प्राणायामं प्रत्याहारं नित्यानित्य विवेकविचारम् |
जाप्यसमेत समाधिविधानं कुर्ववधानं महदवधानम् || (30)

The regulation of breath (pranayam), the withdrawal of the senses (from their respective objects), the inquiry consisting in the discrimination between the eternal and the non-eternal, the method of mind-control associated with the muttering of mantras - perform these with great care.

गुरुचरणाम्बुज निर्भर भकतः संसारादचिराद्भव मुक्तः |
सेन्द्रियमानस नियमादेवं द्रक्ष्यसि निज हृदयस्थं देवम् || (31)

Being devoted completely to the lotus-feet of the Guru, become released soon from the transmigratory process. Thus, through the discipline of sense and mind-control, you will come to experience the Lord that dwells in your own heart.

मूढः कश्चन वैयाकरणो डुकृञ्करणाध्ययन धुरिणः |
श्रीमच्छम्कर भगवच्छिष्यै बोधित आसिच्छोधितकरणः || (32)

Thus a silly grammarian lost in rules was cleansed of his narrow vision and shown the Light by Shankara’s apostles (disciples).

भजगोविन्दं भजगोविन्दं गोविन्दं भजमूढमते |
नामस्मरणादन्यमुपायं नहि पश्यामो भवतरणे || (33)

Worship Govinda, worship Govinda, worship Govinda, O fool! Other than chanting the Lord’s names, there is no other way to cross the life’s ocean.

Anecdotes of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar once happened to travel by train in a compartment with some Englishmen. He sat between two of them. One of them asked, “Who is this donkey?” The other man asked, “Who is this pig?” A third English man asked, “Who are you?“

Ishwar Chandra coolly replied, “I am a human being sitting between a donkey and a pig.“

The two Englishmen felt ashamed of themselves. They felt even more ashamed when they saw a large crowd of persons with garlands waiting to receive Ishwar Chandra, when he got down from the train. The Englishmen then realized that though Indians might appear simple and unlettered, they were inherently noble and gentle.

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

In the city of Calcutta, there lived a mother and her son (Ishwar Chandra). For the education of the son, the mother made many a sacrifice. She, however, impressed upon the son a lesson, “Dear son, do not be concerned about worldly education. The foolish ones acquire all kinds of scholarship, but have no understanding of what they are. By study alone, a man does Not get rid of his lowly ways. Why pursue studies which end up only in death? One should study that which frees him from death. Only spiritual knowledge can lead to immortalility. It is enduring. Worldly knowledge is temporary.

For earning one’s livelihood, worldly education is necessary. But this education should be acquired only to lead an independent life, with limited desires. Therefore, dear son, while pursuing your studies, embark also on the spiritual quest.”

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

Once Ishwar Chandra Vidya Sagar was proceeding to a neighboring village to deliver an address. People used to gather in large numbers to listen to his lectures.

A young officer, who wanted to listen to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s lecture, got down from a train with a bag to go to the lecture-hall.

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar also got down from the same train. The young officer was calling for a porter to carry his bag.

Ishwar Chandra went to him and said: “Why do you need a coolie to carry this small bag? Can’t you carry it yourself and save the money?”

He replied: “It is not in keeping with my dignity to carry my bag. I am an educated person.”

Ishwar Chandra told him: “The hallmark of education is humility, not pride. If you cannot carry your own bag, how are you carrying your body? If, however, you cannot carry your own bag, I shall do so.” And Ishwar Chandra carried the officer’s bag. He acted on the motto: “Simple living and high thinking.”

The young man wanted to offer money to his ‘porter’. Ishwar Chandra told him: “To serve you is my reward”.

The young officer left and was later proceeding to the venue of the meeting. There, people were offering garlands to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar to welcome him to the meeting. The young officer realized that the man who had offered to carry his bag at the station was none other than the respected speaker of the evening, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.

He felt ashamed that he had made such a great man carry his bag. He reflected: “What is his education and what is mine? I am like a glow worm before the Sun.”

The Great Self Surrender of Sufi Saint Rabia

Rabia was an eminent Sufi saint, who led a very simple life while chanting the pious name of Allah, the Lord Almighty, quite incessantly.Sadhus and saints would often visit her small hut. Once when a saint came, she politely requested him to stay at her hut. Thereupon she served the saint wholeheartedly.

The saint noticed that Rabia spread a jute sheet on the floor and placing a piece of brick for the pillow, she went to sleep while chanting the name of Allah. The saint was very much surprised to note her severe austere life-style despite being a saint of the highest order. He was sad.

In the morning, the saint asked Rabia, “Why do you suffer so much hardship?“

“What type of hardship?” asked Rabia.

The saint told her about the single jute sheet and the piece of brick used by her for sleeping, and offered to help her with the required amenities by instructing some devotee for the same. Rabia promptly thanked the saint for the offer, but appended her reply with a counter question, “Now tell me, isn’t it the same Giver Who gives to me, you and even the wealthy people?”

The saint agreed, “Yes! He is the one and only Giver.“

“So, do you think He has forgotten us and it is only the wealthy persons whom He remembers? If He does not remember us, then why should we remind Him of ourselves? I like this condition of mine, because it is but His choice.“

The saint could not utter a single word. He exclaimed, “Wow! What a great sense of self-surrender!“

न खुशी अच्छी है, न मलाल अच्छा है |
यार जिस में रख दे, वह हाल अच्छा है ||
हमारी न आरजू है, न जुस्तजू है |
हम राजी है उसी में, जिस में तेरी रजा है ||

God’s will is that we should realize Him and be liberated. He wants us to transcend all miseries for ever and realize the ultimate worth of human birth by merging our “I” consciousness with that of His, dissolving our petty “I” in His “I” and by participating in the divine activities of the Lord & the Guru. That is all!

Only the personal ego causes misery. One’s own foolishness, insistence, ignorance, and being uninitiated by a Guru brings forth misery. Misery is not created by God, Maya or Nature. Misery is created by one’s own stupidity which springs from the ego.

You may have a painful condition but you should disconnect yourself from the union with pain. Similarly, you may get an event of happiness, but you should not be enamored of it. Take benefits of both happiness and misery. Just use them as the means to your Goal. Just by using the events of sorrow and happiness as the means, you happen to reach your Goal. What is your Goal anyway? To be the Knower of happiness and sorrow. You too just witness sorrow, happiness and anxiety. But usually, you happen to get united with them. No, don’t just get united with any of them.

Once you are able to master this art of remaining internally aloof from these phenomena, it will become easy for you to attain God even while living in samsara. And in case, you fail to learn this art, your aim of God realization will not fructify, no matter how much sincerely you exert yourself for the same. This art can be learnt from the saints through their Satsang.

(Excerpts from the Satsang of Param Pujya Sant Shri Asaramji Bapuji)

अजा एकादशी

CLICK HERE to listen and read Aja Ekadashi

युधिष्ठिर ने पूछा : जनार्दन ! अब मैं यह सुनना चाहता हूँ कि भाद्रपद (गुजरात महाराष्ट्र के अनुसार श्रावण) मास के कृष्णपक्ष में कौन सी एकादशी होती है ? कृपया बताइये ।

भगवान श्रीकृष्ण बोले : राजन् ! एकचित्त होकर सुनो । भाद्रपद मास के कृष्णपक्ष की एकादशी का नाम ‘अजा’ है । वह सब पापों का नाश करनेवाली बतायी गयी है । भगवान ह्रषीकेश का पूजन करके जोइसका व्रत करता है उसके सारे पाप नष्ट हो जाते हैं ।

पूर्वकाल में हरिश्चन्द्र नामक एक विख्यात चक्रवर्ती राजा हो गये हैं, जो समस्त भूमण्डल के स्वामी और सत्यप्रतिज्ञ थे । एक समय किसी कर्म का फलभोग प्राप्त होने पर उन्हें राज्य से भ्रष्ट होना पड़ा । राजा नेअपनी पत्नी और पुत्र को बेच दिया । फिर अपने को भी बेच दिया । पुण्यात्मा होते हुए भी उन्हें चाण्डाल की दासता करनी पड़ी । वे मुर्दों का कफन लिया करते थे । इतने पर भी नृपश्रेष्ठ हरिश्चन्द्र सत्य से विचलितनहीं हुए ।

इस प्रकार चाण्डाल की दासता करते हुए उनके अनेक वर्ष व्यतीत हो गये । इससे राजा को बड़ी चिन्ता हुई । वे अत्यन्त दु:खी होकर सोचने लगे: ‘क्या करुँ ? कहाँ जाऊँ? कैसे मेरा उद्धार होगा?’ इस प्रकार चिन्ताकरते-करते वे शोक के समुद्र में डूब गये ।

राजा को शोकातुर जानकर महर्षि गौतम उनके पास आये । श्रेष्ठ ब्राह्मण को अपने पास आया हुआ देखकर नृपश्रेष्ठ ने उनके चरणों में प्रणाम किया और दोनों हाथ जोड़ गौतम के सामने खड़े होकर अपना सारादु:खमय समाचार कह सुनाया ।

राजा की बात सुनकर महर्षि गौतम ने कहा :‘राजन् ! भादों के कृष्णपक्ष में अत्यन्त कल्याणमयी ‘अजा’ नाम की एकादशी आ रही है, जो पुण्य प्रदान करनेवाली है । इसका व्रत करो । इससे पाप का अन्त होगा ।तुम्हारे भाग्य से आज के सातवें दिन एकादशी है । उस दिन उपवास करके रात में जागरण करना ।’ ऐसा कहकर महर्षि गौतम अन्तर्धान हो गये ।

मुनि की बात सुनकर राजा हरिश्चन्द्र ने उस उत्तम व्रत का अनुष्ठान किया । उस व्रत के प्रभाव से राजा सारे दु:खों से पार हो गये । उन्हें पत्नी पुन: प्राप्त हुई और पुत्र का जीवन मिल गया । आकाश में दुन्दुभियाँ बजउठीं । देवलोक से फूलों की वर्षा होने लगी ।

एकादशी के प्रभाव से राजा ने निष्कण्टक राज्य प्राप्त किया और अन्त में वे पुरजन तथा परिजनों के साथ स्वर्गलोक को प्राप्त हो गये ।

राजा युधिष्ठिर ! जो मनुष्य ऐसा व्रत करते हैं, वे सब पापों से मुक्त हो स्वर्गलोक में जाते हैं । इसके पढ़ने और सुनने से अश्वमेघ यज्ञ का फल मिलता है ।