Chinmaya-Tej Web-site:www.chinmaya.org Chinmaya Mission San Jose Publication Vol.21, No.1 January/February 2010 MssiS i on tatement To provide to individuals, from any background, the wisdom of Vedanta and practical means for spiritual growth and happiness, enabling them to become a positive contributor to the society.
“I will always be with you”
God also likes to play hide and seek.
But as there is nothing outside of God, ... He pretends He is not Himself... He pretends He is you and the creatures of the world, all animals, plants, rocks, and stars. Thus He becomes the Universe, hiding Himself as the Universe...
God is the Self of the world, but you cannot see God, as without a mirror you cannot see yourself, can you?
God is hiding in you...Look and see! s Table of Contents s Volume 21, No . 1 January/February 2010
From The Editors Desk ...... 2 2010 Om Run ...... 3 Ganga's Descent From the Heavens to Earth ...... 5 A Brief Survey of Vedic Literature ...... 10 Our Country & Our Culture ...... 12 Walking with God ...... 13 Chinmaya Youth Camp #18 ...... 16 Hanuman ~ The Eleventh Incarnation of Lord Shiva ...... 17 One Year Residential Vedanta Course ...... 19 Chinmaya BalaVihar Classes ...... 20 BV Locations, Shiva Abhishekam, Swaranjali choir ...... 24 Bhakti Rasamrutam ...... 25 BalVihar Kids' Magazine ...... 26 Tapovan Prasad Magazine ...... 29 Chinmaya Study Groups ...... 28 Community Outreach Programs ...... 29 Br .Prabodhji's Satsang ...... 30 Vedanta Study Groups ...... 30/31. Br .Prabodhji's Classes as Bala Vihar Locations ...... 31 Br Prabodhji's. Classes at Sandeepany ...... 31 Swami Tejomayananada’s Itinerary ...... 32
1 From The Editors Desk Tej, is a bi-monthly publication of Chinmaya Mission San Jose. CMSJ is in the process of getting the necessary permits to build the New Facility. The City of San Jose is studying the building drawings and when they are approved we shall begin the construction of our New Building. We are happy to show you some elevation drawings of the projects. We invite you to visit the site when you can. News and events update via e-newsletter on CMSJ web-site is serving our timely announcements. Please keep us updated with your e-mail addresses and send them to “[email protected]” If you do not hear from us e-mail or Chinmaya Tej, please forward your address and e-mail to me indicated on this page. Chinmaya Tej is also available for viewing on our website. Chinmaya-Tej will be mailed to all Sponsors and Members of Chinmaya Mission San Jose. Send your subscription marked, Chinmaya-Tej, CMSJ, 1050 Park Ave., San Jose, CA 95126.
Chinmaya Tej Editorial Staff Editor: Uma Jeyarasasingam ([email protected]) Co-editor: Rohini Joshi Electronic Editorial Advisor: Satish Joshi Contributors: Subbu Venkatkrishnan, Shankar Narayanan, B.S. Ramadrishna Rao, J. Sig Paulson, Prasana A. Iyengar Design & Layout: four waters / four waters media Printing: Bill Browning/PigMint Press, Redway, California Data Base: Kapil Vaish Mailing: Autozip, Ukiah, California Contact us: http://www.chinmaya.org • Phone: (650) 969-4389 Fax: (650)428-1795
2 Om
2010 Run The First Running of the Om Run Volunteer Blog Notes
H ari Om It gives the Om Run team great joy to report that under perfect running weather the inaugural Om Run was well attended (estimated over 1500 people). Thanks to over 250+ volunteers that helped made the event run through smoothly and all of your cooperation on event day. • 1696 signups, thank you for pre-registering • and there were over 100 onsite signups Then the races began. In addition to the first/second/third place finishers in the 2 races (5k, 10k), all finishers were winners and gotO m Run medals to prove it. There was the young Shivum Ganesh and several younger ones in strollers at one of the spectrum. Our very own Acharya Prabodh Chaitanya was in our midst finishing the 10K with a flourish and his signature smile. At the other end of the spectrum were 70+ seniors who all without exception demonstrated such great spirit and were insistent on an encore Om Run. The weather was perfect, the trail support team was awesome followed by Devaland festivities. The food, generously donated by Dosa Place carried the day.
T rhe fi st volunteers arrived when it was still dark at 6.00 am, then slowly growing into an army of workers assembling the various equipment and placing them in the right spots. The best part was when the balloon arches came, imagine 500 balloons strung together, it could lift a man ! As a spring dawn slowly broke out, the sound was gently broken by Bhimsen Joshi's alaap glided through the air. The banners and signs went up next, the tables and chairs were all set, and the slow tricker of participants suddenly grew as almost everyone decided to show up at the same time... Check-in folks scrambled to adjust .. and just as suddenly the tables were empty again and as the PA system strained to break through to all corners of the field, the runners - a determined, uncomplaining lot, positioned themselves. As Br. Probodh-ji led the invocation prayers, folks spent a moment of silence reaffirming the reason for their participation. After that, the scene shifted to the far end of the field, where Uma-ji rung a Gong to signal the start of the 10K. A few minutes later the 5K and the walkathon folks were off to a start. 3 R unners made their way onto the Vasona park trail, the walkathon folks on the school tracks were treated to a variety of music to keep them entertained as they started on their laps. Children discovered the jump house and castle and did not budge from there until lunch. Who knew walkers would get hungry..at the same time ??!!!! Well it did happen and we were there, walkers could not resist the yummy delectables that wafted right into their noses, and a hypnotized many made their way out the tracks into the food stalls, that quickly became an orderly queue...no pushing and shoving here. A few plate-sharing was seen. it was time for the first runners to arrive, the Bike Patrol led the firstK 5 runners into the field and it was a pleasure to see a pair of young cousins in a near photo finish ! Then the rest of the runners followed. The walkathoners still midway though their goals, followed, some wandered into the vendor stalls, some got near the BAKE SALE of homemade condiments, podis, chaklis, murukkus, vadams. Yes, a few BAKE-GALs came up with this idea and it turned into a modest success...
Hari Om T he moment was upon us and we all came together in celebration. It felt like the perfect resonance of all things coming together. To get us organized I called it different names, functional teams; Walkathon, Trails, Parking, Hospitality, Volunteer Coordinator, Program Manager, Website, Timekeeping, MC, Checkin, Prepost events, Waterstation, ER, - and that was essential. On event day, when it mattered most (IMHO the most important vantage point), we all came together in a way to show how Om Run is OUR event. Yesterday was all about rising to the occasion and everyone did it together. A large tent was raised that accommodated all that showed up in person and spirit. The experience would have left everyone with a well deserved sense of accomplish- ment. Suggest a moment to reflect on what all worked on this day and fully expect several superlatives in those reflections, please focus on those. This was our moment of coming together. When tired, thirsty participants say 50 meters before the finish line, "when are we doing this again? will we do it again next year" — that has to make your day, it did mine. On that note a pat on the back for a job very well done to all of us. Looking ahead to fulfilling on the fundraising pledges and the work must go on.
Hari Om ~prasana
4 Ganga’s Descent from the Heavens to Earth
Long time ago there lived a king born in the clan of Ikshvakus called King Bahuka. H is kingdom was taken away from him by force after which he escaped to the forest with his wives and lived there. Soon thereafter, the king died while wandering in the forest one day. His youngest wife was grief-stricken and decided to cast off her mortal body in his funeral pyre as was the custom in those days. The rishis who lived nearby stopped her because they knew she was carrying the king’s child in her womb and wanted her to bring forth the child to term. 5 The king’s other wives were green Yaga. He sent for a special horse to with envy and resentment – they did perform the Yaga. A horse befitting the not like the fact that of all the king’s Yaga was secured and preparations for children, the last one alone was to the Yaga began in earnest. survive and become heir to the king. Indra, fearful of losing his position They also did not want the king’s as the king of the gods should the Yaga youngest wife to become the mother be successful, stole the horse. King of the future king. Therefore, they all Sagara sent his sixty thousand sons to poisoned the youngest wife’s food and search for the horse and bring it back fed it to her with great affection. But for the Ashvamedha Yaga. The sons contrary to their expectations, no harm of the king were all valiant but very befell either the mother or the unborn arrogant as well. They set out in search child, and the child was born in due of the horse. They searched the world course. He was covered by the poison over but could not find the horse. that his mother had been given, but They then dug the earth with their was otherwise unaffected. The rishis immensely powerful arms and entered named him Sagara. the netherworld. When they reached In course of time, Sagara became a the north-easterly direction, they found great king and later an emperor. King a cave. Inside the cave, they found a Sagara had two wives: Sumati, who had rishi seated in intense Meditation. By sixty thousand sons by a strange quirk his side was the horse, grazing happily. of fate, and Keshini, who had one son. “Look at this thief!” exclaimed the As was customary for great arrogant princes. “Having stolen our emperors in those days, King Sagara horse he is sitting with his eyes closed wanted to perform an Ashvamedha as though he knows nothing. Let us 6 kill him.” So saying, the sixty thousand thousand sons, turned to his only princes grabbed their weapons and grandson, Amshuman, and sent him rushed toward the rishi. The rishi in in search of his uncles. Amshuman the cave was none other than Sage followed the path his uncles had taken Kapila Muni. Sensing the princes by pursuing the traces they had left rushing towards him, he opened his behind. After a long and tiring trek, he eyes and cast an angry glance at them, eventually made his way to the nether reducing them to a heap of ashes. world and reached Kapila Muni’s cave. King Sagara’s second wife Keshini’s There, he prostrated to Kapila Muni son was Asamanja, a strange human with all due reverence, devotion, and being. From the time he was born, eyes flooded with tears. he was afraid of human bondage. The great sage was pleased at the He shielded himself from bondage humility and devotion of the young by pretending to be a cruel man. He prince and said: “Child, take this horse displeased everyone around him - he which belongs to your grandfather, would frighten citizens by catching King Sagara. Indra brought it and left it hold of young children and throwing here when I was in yoga nidra. As for them into the Sarayu river; he would your uncles, they have all been burnt then clap his hands as if in joy. As a to ashes because of their haughtiness. result of the atrocities he committed, The only water which can emancipate Asamanja was thrown out of the their souls and take them to Pitriloka country. Just before leaving the country, is the water of Mandakini, Ganga from however, he restored everyone he had the heavens.” Amshuman thanked the killed (including the children he had sage, circumambulated him, prostrated thrown into the river) to life. Onlookers to him one more time and returned were surprised by this, but before they home with the horse. could say anything, he walked away to King Sagara, unhappy at the the forest. There, Asamanja performed fate that befell his sons, crowned severe tapas and attained Moksha. Amshuman king and went to the forest In the interim, King Sagara, very to perform tapas and find peace and worried about his missing sixty moksha. King Amshuman, desiring to
7 emancipate the souls of his uncles with if I fall to the earth from the heavens. Mandakini’s waters, performed tapas to Who is there powerful enough to please Mandakini and convince her to absorb the force of my fall? If I am not come down from the heavens to earth. slowed down, the force of my descent He failed to do so and eventually died will be so great that I will enter and without fulfilling his desire. His son penetrate the earth’s surface and pass Dilipa attempted to do the same but into thenether regions straight. Your was unsuccessful as well. He too left tapas will then all go to waste. Besides, his work undone and died. I see no reason why I should leave my heavenly abode and come down to your sinful earth. People will bathe in my waters and shed their dirt and sins in me and purify themselves. I will have to patiently bear with it all. Who in turn will purify me?” Bhagiratha stood with all humility before her and said: “As for the sinfulness you are afraid of, it is not such a problem. I have been told that great seers who have transcended human bondage, who have no thought other than that of the Lord, who have Narayana firmly lodged in their minds forever - these seers, when they bathe in your waters, will purify you. They are named the Tirtharupas and they will cleanse you. And no sin clings to them since they have the power to destroy sin. The other problem you mentioned - the need to slow you down when you descend to earth - can be solved only with the grace of Lord Shiva. I will pray to him. Mother, if He Dilipa’s son Bhagiratha, after does agree to allow you to land on His ascending to the throne, left his head and absorb your force, will you kingdom in the care of his ministers cleanse and emancipate my ancestors?” and was intent on only one thing: “I will, I promise,” said Mandakini. bringing Mandakini down to earth and Bhagiratha began his tapas once emancipating his ancestors to Pitriloka. again, this time invoking Bhagiratha performed intense tapas Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, well known for years on end to make Mandakini to grant boons immediately to His descend to earth. His tapas was so devotees, appeared before Bhagiratha powerful that Mandakini appeared in and asked him, “What can I do for front of him and said: “Bhagiratha, you you, Bhagiratha?” evidently have no conception of the Bhagiratha prostrated before the enormous force with which I will flow Lord and explained his desire: “ My 8 Lord, you know how my ancestors locks disappeared instantly and was were turned to a heap of ashes when nowhere to be seen. Mandakini tried they offended Sage Kapila Muni. The her best to get out of the great tangled Sage told my grandfather that they mass of Lord Shiva’s matted locks (His could be purified only ifM andakini jata) but she could not. comes down to earth and purifies Seeing this, Bhagiratha cried out their ashes. Mandakini has finally with great concern, “ Lord! What consented to descend to earth but happened? Has all my penance gone has cautioned me thus: “ The force to waste? Please have mercy on me of my descent will be very powerful; and release Mandakini.” With the the earth is not strong enough gentle, enchanting smile at the corner to withstand it”. Lord, I am now of His lips unchanged, Lord Shiva invoking you to receive Mandakini as allowed Mandakini to trickle down she descends , slow her fall and hold from a strand of His hair. Mandakini, her in your matted locks, then release chastened and penitent, descended her slowly.” The Lord was very happy to earth drop by drop. A lake called to hear this request and agreed. “Bindusaras” (also known as “Saptas- Mandakini rushed down with rotas” ) was formed from these great force from the heavens. Every drops. Mandakini, as she was called heavenly being stood speechless in the heavens, was known as Ganga watching the onrush. Lord Shiva on earth. stood with His head slightly raised, Wherever she went, Ganga and trident held at His back with purified everything she touched.S he both hands. His chest was thrust divided herself into seven streams. forward. The snakes on His arms Three of them flowed eastward and were swaying to and fro. The dark three westward. The seventh stream blue patch on His neck glowed followed the chariot of Bhagiratha against the golden hue of His skin. as he proceeded towards the cave A gentle smile adorned His lips. The of Kapila Muni. The seven worlds seven worlds beheld this spectacle in stood in amazement watching the awe as Mandakini descended to earth. sight. The chariot of King Bhagiratha Bhagiratha stood there with eyes wide speeding and the thin silvery trickle of open, and hands folded in prayer. His Ganga following him, like a daughter heart was beating fast at the prospect following her father. Soon, Ganga’s of his ancestors finally getting waters reached Kapila Muni’s cave and emancipated to world of the Pitris. washed the heap of ashes that were As Mandakini descended, she the only remains of the sixty thousand become a tad conceited of her own valiant sons of King Sagara. Their prowess and force. She came down as souls were instantly emancipated and fast as she could. Lord Shiva took her they reached the Pitri Loka. in His matted locks. It was a breath- Since Bhagiratha was the one taking sight to behold. Something who brought her to the world, Ganga really strange happened. The river is considered to be Bhagiratha’s that had rushed down with such daughter and is therefore also known great force into Lord Shiva’s matted as Bhagirathi.
9 A Brief Survey of Vedic Literature
by Dr. B.S. Ramakrishna Rao (from Our Vedic Heritage)
Veda is a term applied to a group of of life medicine) have also come down literature that forms the earliest record to us as Upavedas. The Aagamasastra of the Indian civilization. This literature (Science of Temple worship) is also is also the oldest literary monument of supposed by have been based on the Indo-European languages. the Vedas. Added to these is another The term Veda is a very compre- discipline of learning called the hensive one. Therefore, the Vedic Anviksiki or Mamaamsa that is closely literature includes the four ‘Vedas’ associated with the Vedas. Thus, when (strictly speaking, the Samhithas), we talk of the Vedic literature, normally, the ‘Brahmanas’, the ‘Aranyakas’, and all these texts are included. But in the ‘Upanishads’. Then there are a the present context, the word veda number of auxiliary texts, termed the denotes only the original texts, namely ‘Vedangas’, or the limbs of the Veda, the Samhithas, the Braahmanas, the and they are: Siksaa (Phonetics), Aaranyakas and the Upanishads. Vyaakaranam (Grammer), Chandas What is ‘Veda’ (Metrics), Miruktam (Etymology), Jyotisam (Astronomy) and Kalpa E tymologically speaking, the term (Manuals on Rituals). Kalpa is of three Veda means knowledge, being derived kinds, namely, Srauta Sutras (Vedic from the root ‘Vid’ — to know. Thus Manuals), Grhya Sutras (Domestic the word denotes knowledge in its Manuals) and the Dharma Sutras primary sense and thereby also denotes (Legal Manuals). the texts containing that Knowledge. There are commentaries on the Another term ‘Sruti’, is also used above texts, both original and the to denote the same texts. Sruti is auxiliary texts. There exist also some something that is heard by the students independent manuals dealing with through the teacher. This also indicates the topics or subjects contained in that the Vedas are not written texts but the above texts. Various other texts ‘heard’ or ‘revealed’, things. like the Gandharva Veda (Science As per the Hindu faith and belief, of Music), Dhanur Veda (Science of the Vedas are not the works of any Archery) and the Ayur Veda (Science author. They are (eternal). Even God 10 is not the author of the Vedas. But, the Vedic age’. This is confirmed by Brahma swallows the Vedas at the the words of Patanjali, the author time of deluge and again, when the of the great commentary on the new world is to be created, He will Sutras of Panini. Patanjali states that give out the Vedas. Thus Rg-veda tere were as many as 21 recensions comes from his face facing the of the Rigveda, 101 recensions of Eastern direction, Saama-veda from the Yajuveda, 1000 recensions of the Western direction, Atharava-veda th Samaveda and 9 recensions of from the Northern direction and the Atharvaveda. Caranavyuha the Yajurveda from the Southern speaks of about fifty more branches direction. of the Vedas. The story of a sage These are ‘seen or ‘heard’ by the named Bharadvaja that occurs in Seers and therefore we treat these the Taittiriya Brahmana of the Krsna sages as the seers (one who saw Yajurveda amply testifies to this fact. for the first time) of the respective Bharadvaja studied the Vedas Mantras. for about 300 years. Being pleased It is needless to statte that these with the devotion of the sage, God view are not accepted or respected Indra appeared before him and by the modern Researchers. The asked what he would be doing modern scholars opine that the if another 100 years are given to so-called Seers are the actual poets him. Bharadvaja told that he will who composed the respective poems continue to study the Vedas. Then or hymns. Indra showed four mountains, brought four handfuls of soil from Vastness of Vedic literature them and told him — ‘What all you have learnt so far is just this much. The Vedic literature that has Don’t hope to complete the study come down to us is very vast. But of the Vedas. Be content with what Ananta vai Vedah -- ‘Vedas, have you have learnt.’ no limit’, is our belief. ‘We have no right to suppose that we have even a hundredth part of the religious and (To be continued in subsequent issues popular poetry that existed during of the Chinmaya Tej)
11 O ur Country&O ur Culture
“Nobody can love a country merely because of the beauty of the nation or the wealth in it. Man is inspired to make sacrifices only when he has love for that which he is defending. Only when we come to appreciate the heart of a nation, which is its culture and its genius can love be discovered. Thereafter we would feel inspired to make ready sacrifices for building up the nation. Discipline, team spirit, the ability to sink minor differences and to rise as a united force to defeat the forces of disintegration and poverty — all these can readily manifest only in the bosom of a generation which is proud of its past. The past of Bharat is not her industrial success, nor wars of conquest, nor her battles for markets. Ours is essentially the culture — the glory of a man who has conquered his own lower nature. Ours is a contribution to sacrifices, and not the flimsy glory of acquisition. The system that Bharatiya culture experimented upon and helped as her great contribution to the world is a system of giving rather than of taking — a life that is based upon the fulfillment of duties and not a life of striving for gaining rights.”
Swami Chinmayananda
SPONSORED BY: U S Hindi Association 4177 Hubbartt Dr., Palo Alto CA 94306
12 WalkingBy J.Sig Paulson with God
H ave you ever longed to walk with God? — not just to touch his presence in a few moments of inspiration or prayer— but to come to know Him as a daily companion? Have you ever longed to know God as a strength to meet the tasks of your day, a light to shine before you on a pathway of life, an anchor to hold you steady on the changing seas you cross? Have you ever longed to experience God as a voice that tells you where to turn and when to stand still, a love that warms your heart, a faith that cannot be quenched, a friend who never fails. You can walk with God today, and everyday, by claiming that which is already your own. For God is the eternal companion of all, and has walked with everyone, though few have realized it. We have never been separated from God, except through our own forgetfulness, or through letting the cares and ambitions of “making a living” nibble away at our awareness of Him, in whom “we live, and move, and have our being.” Walking with God, then is to be an easy and joyous acknowledgement of Him who eternally walks with us. It is to be a grateful recognition of the visible and eternal one who breathes life into us and into all His creation. Would you transform your days? Wouls you fill the hooks and crannies, the by ways and highways of your life with joy and rich adventure? Then learn the great truth that you walk with God? Let there be God spaces in your day. Let there be holy, special times devoted to God alone; not just definite, formal periods of meditation, but living, golden moments tucked into the routine of your daily activities. Tell no man. Let these times be as a secret pact between you two: your divine companion and you!
13 O n the street, in the taxicab or subway, in the auto or bus, at your desk or lathe, in your office or laboratory, at home or abroad, rain or shine, open a God space. Fill it with these shining reminders of His presence: “I walk with God.” “God is with me.” “In God I live and move and have my being.” “I am strong in the Lord and in the Power of His might.” “Thank you Father, for life, love and strength.” Let these words sing through your heart and mind without strain or effort. Oh, the untellable joys you and your companion will share. Are you starting a difficult task? Preface it with God space: “Or, who is greater than I, is with me. He will perfect that which concerns me.” “God, my eternal companion is here. Nothing is impossible with Him.” “I do this to the glory of Him who walks with me.” Then with serene faith and expectant heart do that which lies before you. Have you just finished a project or a job? Take time to fill a God space with thanks giving: “I thank you, Father, it is finished.” “To you, my Father, is all glory and praise.” Or, let it be just a grateful feeling of accomplishment welling up in your heart. You are now ready to continue your day’s activities. Are you in need of healing, strength, renewal? Pause a moment, open a God space in mind and heart with words like these:
14 “ My body is the temple of the living God. His spirit breathes life in and through me. His life restores my health. His joy gives me strength. His energy renews me.” Then return to your regular activities… serene, confident, grateful. Are you walking strange paths, crossing unknown meadows, moving through the valley of shadow? There is time for a God space: “I walk with God. His wisdom lights my way.” “God is with me. His light is my light. His love is my love.” “The Lord is my companion. He leads me in the paths of righteousness.” Then, move ahead fearlessly, with untroubled heart. Your way is clear. You do not walk alone. Are you swinging down a street, overflowing with your fellow men. A god space will fill your path with peace: “God’s spirit looks at me through the eyes of all whom I meet.” “You are gods, all of you, sons of the Most High.” “I give thanks, divine companion, that You walk with them, too.” Then walk with God and His children, and let your face radiate your awareness of your loving companion’s presence. Again and again and yet again, fill your God spaces with the courtesy of silence, so that your divine companion may speak to you. Open your mind and heart to His inspiration. Let His spirit guide you into the glory of His kingdom, here and now, right where you walk. The God spaces you open in your life will grow and grow until your whole experience becomes one joyous walk with God. (This piece was written by a fellow seeker and was published by Tapovan Prasad in 1975)
15 Chinmaya Youth Camp #18 Krishnalaya ~ Piercy, California June 26 - July 4, 2010
conducted by Chinmaya Mission San Jose Camp Acharya: Br. Prabodh Chaitanya Camp Co-ordinator: Uma Jeyarasasingam Camp Teachers: CMSJ BV and YK Teachers
Theme: Krishnam Vande Jagat Gurum
Sri Krishna — the World Teacher “This Supreme Essence born as a mass of Beauty, Music, and Joy, dazzling in Wisdom, noisy with Laughter, ever a Master of Circumstances, a King of Events, frisking about in life’s melancholy contentions, meeting challenges with daring and confidence, at once a Hero and a Child all rolled into one — this is the perfect God-Man, the Eternal Child of Brindavan.” ~Swami Chinmayananda We will discover the charming way Sri Krishna reveals the Supreme Knowledge.
Registrations opens on April 1st. • First-come-first-serve basis. • Registration for this camp usually fills up within a week. • Registration closes as soon as camp is full and/ or by April 30. • Youth camp Students age is between 8-17 yrs. Parents may drop the students on 6/26 and pick them up on 7/4 or may use a bus that is being arranged from SJ to Piercy and back. Camp is from Saturday, June 26 to Sunday, July 4. Part time attendance is not available. If you have any questions regarding this camp please contact Uma Jeyarasasingam at [email protected] or (650) 969-4389.
16 HANUMAN the Eleventh Incarnation of Lord Shiva Lord Shiva decided to incarnate on earth as Hanuman so he could serve Lord Vishnu when he took the form of Sri Rama. Lord Shiva manifested Himself in eleven forms. Ten of the eleven forms of Lord Shiva were invoked by Ravana. He did severe penance and invoked each of the ten forms one by one, and then cut off the form’s head. The eleventh form was remaining. At the end of his penance, Ravana asked Lord Shiva to grant him a boon — that he could be destroyed by no other being except humans or monkeys.
17 R avana, being of the rakshasa clan, down to earth at the same time. felt he could take on humans and They had a discussion about Vishnu’s monkeys and destroy them very descent, the purpose of Rama’s birth easily. When Lord Shiva heard this, and all His adventures to come. Lord He was relieved and happy. Good I Shiva thought that if he were to serve can take the form of a monkey when Rama as His devotee, he must take Lord Vishnu decides to descend as the form of a monkey, as Hanuman man, He thought to Himself. so he can remain close to Rama and Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva have observe all His adventures from close great regard and mutual reverence proximity. Lord Vishnu gladly agreed for each other. Lord Vishnu had to this. Lord Shiva appeared to always rescued Lord Shiva from Kesari and Anjana, the parents to be many difficult predicaments. But of Hanumanji, in response to their Lord Shiva never had the opportu- prayers for a son, and announced to nity to serve or rescue Lord Vishnu. them that He had chosen to be born So when Lord Shiva heard that Lord as their son. Lord Shiva was then Vishnu was going to descend to born to Kesari and Anjana earth as Rama, He decided to come as Hanumanji.
18 One Year Residential Vedanta Course
Chinmaya Mission West (CMW) is pleased to announce its One-Year Residential Vedanta Course at CMW's Headquarters, the ashram of Krishnalaya in Northern California, amidst the serene Redwoods with the blessing and guidance from Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda
START DATE The Course will commence August 7, 2010 and end in August 2011. This residential, full-time Course, without any holidays, will be conducted in English.
ACHARYAS AND TEXTS Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda: Tattwa Bodha, Mandukya Upanishad(selected) and Essence of Srimad Bhagawatam & Ramayana. Swami Shantananda: Dakshinamoorty Stotram and Sat Darshanam. Swami Ishwarananda: Bhagawad Gita. Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya: Upadesha Saara, Atma Bodha, Drg Drshya Viveka, Panchadashi Ch. 1, and Isa, Kena, Katha, Mundaka Upanishads Acharya Smt. Sharada Kumar: Vedic Chanting, bhajans, Suktams, Samskrt & Vivekchudamani Taittiriya Upanishad and Sahasranaamavali.
SCHEDULE Pujya Guruji: August 7-22 2010 Acharya Smt. Sharada Kumar: August 2010 - August 2011 Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya: August - October 2010 Swami Ishwarananda: November - December 2010 Swami Shantananda: January 2011 Swami Ishwarananda: February - March 2011 Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya: April - May 2011 Acharya Sharada Kumar: June - July 2011 Pujya Guruji: August 2011 The Course will commence August 7, 2010 and end in August 2011. This residential, full-time Course, without any holidays, will be conducted in English.
REGISTRATION $12,000 (covers registration, lodging, boarding, and books; payable in installments). Submit your name and contact information through the website provided. All submissions will be reviewed and eligible candidates will be asked to schedule a personal interview, the details of which will be provided at a later date. For additional questions, contact Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya.
19 Eighth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose
Tec a her: Krishnasamy
20 Eighth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose
Tec a her: Jignesh Joshi
21 N inth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose
Tec a her: Ravi Ranganathan Co-Tec a her: Needamangalam Balachander
22 N inth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose
Tec a her: Jayaram Reddy Co-Tec a her: Sanjay Rao Co-Tec a her: Ravi Alladi
23 Bala VIHAR Locations 2008-2009 Danville: Los Cerritos Middle School 968 Blemer Road Saturdays 4:30 pm Contact: Meena Kapadia – (925) 680-7037 San Jose: Lincoln High School 555 Dana Avenue Sunday - Session I-9:00 a.m., Session II-10:30 a.m. Contact: Uma – (650) 969-4389 Fremont: Washington High School 38442, Fremont Blvd. Saturdays 1:30 pm Contact: Lakshmi Prakash – (510) 490-1266
Si h va AbhISHEka & Puja at Sandeepany San Jose C onducted by Mission Members T ime: 7:30-8:30 pm / Every 2nd Monday of the month
Sw aRANjali Youth Choir SaJ n oSE Choir sessions are held every alternate Sundays between 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Venue: Sandeepany / San Jose Teachers: Prema Sriram, Jaya Krishnan, and Jayashree Ramkumar Contact: Poornima Dilip: [email protected] Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Ranjani at the address above.
Danville Choir sessions are held once every two weeks, Saturdays at 2:30pm - 3:30p.m. Venue: Los Cerros Middle School 968 Blemer Road San Ramon, CA 94582 Teacher: Shailaja Dixit / Contact: Shailaja at 925-309-4837 Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Shailaja at the above number.
Fremont Choir is held weekly on Saturdays, 12 noon - 1:00 p.m. Venue: Washington High School / Fremont Teachers: Natana Valiveti and Rajashri Iyengar Contact: Natana at [email protected] Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Natana at [email protected]
24 Bhakti Rasamrutam (The sweet essence of Devotion)
Swaranjali, Chinmaya Youth Choir, has produced 10 CDs containing 100 Bhajans, glorifying the Lord in many Indian Languages. The Bhajans are rendered by 15 students of Swaranaji, with devotion, an offering to the Lord as their contribution to the New Building Project. The Choir is taught by Prema Sriram, Jaya Krishnan and Jayshree Ramkumar. The CD is entitled, Bhakti Rasamrutam, the sweet essence of Devotion. All details on this CD are posted on our web-site, chinmaya-sanjose.org. This is a rare gift which is very inspirational and uplifting. The proceeds from the CDs will add to our Fund-raising efforts. Thanks to all who contributed their time and talents to the production of the CD.
25 K ids' Own Magazine... Bl a ViHar
Parents... This is a monthly magazine published by Central Chinmaya Mission, Mumbai for Children. It is packed with stories, puzzles, arts and craft ideas, children’s contributions of essays, riddles, games, and much more. You can subscribe to it directly. The annual subscription is $30 and you will receive it monthly by air. We suggest that you subscribe in your child’s name so your child will have the pleasure of receiving his or her own magazine from India. Make your checks payable to Central Chinmaya Mission Trust and mail it to: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust Sandeepany Sadhanalaya, Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai 400 072, India
G CiTA hANTING Classes for Children by Mallika Subramanian San Jose: Lincoln High School / Every S][ unday Contact: (408) 245-4915 Fremont: Washington High School / Every Saturday Contact: (510) 490-1266 26 O ur thanks to all our Sponsor families who have continued to support us for many years and to all Member families who have found our programs to benefit their children thereby supporting us. We have room for more Sponsors and Members. Please invite your friends to join the larger Chinmaya Family of the Bay Area.
CMSJ SPONSORSHIP . . . . . Annual Contribution $500 CMSJ MEMBERSHIP . . . . . Annual Contribution $200 Chinmaya - Tej ...... Annual CT Sponsors $300 Chinmaya - Tej ...... Annual Subscription $50 (Receive Chinmaya-Tej only)
Tapovan Prasad
A Monthly Spiritual of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide Published by Chinmaya Chinmaya Mission, Madras. It is Internationally acclaimed Publication filled with articles and reports that are inspiring and educational. Hindus living all over the world keep in touch with their spiritual heritage through Tapovan Prasad. Annual Subscription by Airmail: US$20 (12 issues) ] Make checks to Tapovan Prasad Madras and mail to: No.2, 13th Avenue, Harrington Road, Chetput, Chennai,600031, India. 27 Scheme of Study for Chinmaya Study Groups, US
1. Self Unfoldment 2. Tattva bodh 3. Bhaja Govindam 4. Atma bodh 5. Manah Shodhanam 6. Upadesa Saram 7. Narada Bhakti Sutra 8. Meditation and Life 9. Bhagavad Gita Introduction – Ch.1 & 2 10. Jnanasarah 11. Kenopanishad 12. Gita, Ch. 3 – 6 13. Dyanaswaroopam 14. Kaivalya Upanishad 15. Gita, Ch. 7 – 9 16. Isavasya Upanishad 17. Gita, Ch. 10 – 12 18. Bhakti Sudha 19. Gita, Ch. 13 – 15 20. Mundaka Upanishad 21. Gita, Ch. 16 – 18 22. Sat Darshan 23. Vivekachoodamani
Vedanta Study Groups held in the Bay Area are listed in this issue of Chinmaya Tej and you may contact them if you wish to join a Study Group.
28 Community Outreach Program Cinmah ya Mission San Jose Seva Opportunities
Sn a jOSe Are You Willing to Volunteer or Just Sponsor the Program? I f yes, please call Krishna Bhamre: (408) 733-4612 or e-mail [email protected] We need volunteers for preparing and serving Hot Meals for the Homeless. Lunch bags are prepared at Los Altos Community Center. All Youth volunteers are required to sign up with Krishna Bhamre. Meals For The Homeless Program: Served at San Jose’s Emergency Housing Consortium at Orchard Drive off Curtner Avenue (Adult & Youth Volunteers & Sponsors).
F remONT Fremont BV sponsors Sandwiches For The Needy. On the 2nd Saturday/Washington High School in Fremont. Parents of Bala Vihar and the kids prepare 70 Sandwiches, bag them and provide chips, fruit and juice. The Sandwiches are delivered to the Tricity Homeless Coalition, where they are served to adults and children. The Shelter is located on 588 Brown Road, Fremont, CA In addition, last Christmas, Fremont Bala Vihar donated new blankets, sweaters, sweat shirts, and infant warm clothes etc. to the homeless at the shelter.
29 Vedanta Study Groups Adult Sessions
Concord: Bhagavad Gita, Ch. 6 Sevak: Vipin Kapadia Contact: Meena Kapadia (925) 680-7037 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)
Cupertino: Bhagvad Gita Q&A Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact : Ram Mohan (408) 255-4431 Time: 7:30 pm (Thur.)
Fremont: Viveka Chudamani Sevika: Priya Batheja Contact: Priya Batheja (510) 490-1926 Time: 7:30 pm (Mon.)
Los Altos: Self-Unfoldment Sevak: Uma Jeyarasasingam Contact: Ruchita Parat (650) 858-1209 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)
Los Gatos Jnana Sara Sevak: Satish Joshi Contact: Tiwari (408) 234-7815 Time: 8:00 p.m. (Fri.)
Milpitas Bhagvad Gita, Ch.18 Sevika: Uma Jeyarasasingam Contact: Suma Venkatesh (408) 263-2961 Time: 7:30 pm (Tue.)
Mountain House: Self-Unfoldment Sevika: Padmaja Joshi Contact: Padmaja Joshi (209) 830-1295 Time: 8:00p.m. (Wed.)
Satsang with Br. Prabodh Chaitanya All events are from: 8:00-9:00pm 1st Friday of each month: Baljit & Prakash Bettadapur, San Jose, CA 95124 Text: Upadesa Saara • Ph: (408) 369-8315 2nd Friday of each month: Geetha & Sanjay Rao, Evergreen Text: Drg Drshya Viveka • Ph: (408) 532-6461 3rd Friday of each month: Sweta & Jnana Dash, Almaden Valley Text: Drg Drshya Viveka • Ph: (408) 268-5056
30 All classes held weekly unless otherwise stated
San Jose: Self Unfoldment Sevak: Ravi Kaw Contact: Nancy Kaw (408) 251-4725 Time: 8:00 pm (Thur.)
San Jose (LHS) Bhagvad Gita Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact: Sreeharsha (408) 446-9823 Time: 3:00 pm (Sun.)
Sandeepany SJ Vedic Chanting Sevak: Subbu Venkatakrishnan Contact: Mallika Subramanian (408) 245-4915 Time: 6:55 pm (Thur.)
San Ramon: Bhagavad Gita, Ch 3 Sevika: Sireesha Balabadra Contact: Sireesha Balabadra (925) 804-6102 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)
Saratoga: Kindle Life Sevika: Kalpana Jaswa Contact: Kalpana Jaswa (408) 741-4920 Time: 10:30 am (Thur.)
Sunnyvale: Kathopanishad Sevak: Satish Joshi Contact: Rohini Joshi (408) 730-2596 Time: 8:00 pm (Wed.)
Redwood City: Bhagvad Gita, Ch. 4 Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact: Sunil Jeswani (650) 364-1074 Time: 7:30 pm (Fri.)
Walnut Creek: Bhagavad Gita Ch. 2 Sevak: Vipin Kapadia Contact: Rakesh Bhutani (925) 933-2650 Time: 9:30 am (Sun.)
Prabodhji's Classes at Bala Vihar Locations F remont: saturdays 1:45 p.m. Bhagavad Gita, Ch 1 (Cont'd) D anville: saturdays 4:45 p.m. Vivekachoodamani (Cont'd) S an Jose: session 1 Bhagavad Gita, Ch 8 (Cont'd) Session 2 Panchadashi, Ch 4 (Cont'd)
Prabodhji's Classes at Sandeepany M ondays & Wednesdays: 10-11:30 a.m. Yoga Vasishta (Continued) T uesdays & Thursdays: 6:30-7:30 a.m. Mundaka Upanishad (Beginning) T uesdays & Thursdays: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Vivekachoodamani (Beginning) S aturdays: 6:30-8:30 a.m. Mundaka Upanishad (Beginning)
31 Swami Tejomayananada’s Itinerary
Spring 2010
Date Location/Event Phone
Apr 20- 25 Jakarta, Indonesia (62-21) 314-4058
Apr 27-28 Kuala Lumpur (60) 12277-2401 Malaysia
Apr 30-May 10 Chinmaya Mission (91-22) 2857-8647 Sidhabari [email protected] May 3-9 Mumbai (91-1892) 234325
Chinmaya Tapovan Trust [email protected] May 11-29 Kolwan, Pune (91) 976-372-3824
Chinmaya Vibhooti [email protected]
Jun 1-6 Chinmaya Ashram (91-230) 246-5073 Kolhapur
32 The knowledge that the Pratyagatman is Paramatma is real knowledge. This knowledge is the real sacred thread, yajnopavitam. To be in an uninterrupted awareness of Paramatma [your true Self] is real Brahmanatvam [abidance in or oneness with Brahman or God]. The sacred thread is a sign of this awareness. The inner awareness is permanent. The external thread is ephemeral.
~ Swami Chinmayananda
Join the Chinmaya Family as SPONSORS… We invite you to join our Sponsorship program so that you can help us to promote, sustain and continue to teach adults and children, alike, the Hindu Dharma which is our Heritage. Chinmaya Mission began its service to the Hindu Community some 20 years ago in the Bay Area.We are funded by public contributions. Your contribution, as a Sponsor, goes towards the operation of Sandeepany. Many families who are taking part in the various classes that we offer to adults and children, have enrolled themselves as Sponsors. They enjoy many benefits and become an integral part of the spiritual family at Sandeepany. Sponsorship is an annual contribution of $500 per family. The donation is tax deductible and can also be paid bi-annually, quarterly or monthly. What Do Our Sponsors Receive? • They enjoy all the classes offered at Sandeepany Schools for adults and children. • They will receive the journal, MANANAM and the bi-monthly Newsletters: Chinmaya Tej and CMW Newsletter. • Sponsors are invited to attend Weekend Retreats held periodically at Sandeepany.
U nited Way Contributions Your contributions to United Way can now be designated to Chinmaya Mission San Jose (United Way I.D. No 212100). The Mission is enrolled to receive such contributions with United Way Agency in Santa Clara. Chinmaya Family would like to thank you for your support. e If travelling South on 101 s Take Guadalupe Expressway Exit Jo
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y S At the bottom of the ramp, and at the light, make a right turn
If travelling South on 280 Take the Meridian North Exit Go to Park Ave. and make a right turn ndeepan a If travelling South on 880
o S Take the 280 exit to San Jose t
Get off at the Meridian North Exit s Go to Park Ave. and make a right turn n o If travelling South on 680 t
c Get off at Race Street Exit At the bottom of the ramp, at the light, make a right turn i
D rei Go to Park Ave. (3rd light) and make a right
Non-Profit Chinmaya Mission Organization San Jose U.S. Postage Sandeepany San Jose PAID Piercy, CA 1050 Park Avenue San Jose, CA 95126 Ph. (408) 998-2793 Fax (408) 998-2952