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In the human world, nothing but the immortal cultural contribution has the potential to endure for long. It permeates into the people to become their lasting bequest. If India is distinguished for its great cultural heritage, it is because of the subtle, undeniable Sagely enrichment, our people value and uphold. To understand this Brahmavidy¡ culture, to help in its dissemination and the consequent world-welfare efforts (loka- sa´graha) of a Spiritual Teacher, is a great fortune. Our country has always excelled in preserving this great legacy.
February 2010 Vol. 45 No. 05
Vicharasetu - October 2009 2
Contents
Science of Inner Redemption – 16
The Right Perception 03
Is Sanny¡sa a must for Enlightenment? - II 11
The Transforming áibiram - A Report – Mala S. 17
A Knowledge-Festivity - (8th áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram) – Satish Bhat 22
Correspondence
Developing Empathy when Faced with Maltreatment 24
News & Notes 26
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The same applies to e-Money Orders also, as the postal department does not transmit sender’s message and the purpose of the remittance.
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Vicharasetu - October 2009 3
Science of Inner Redemption – 16 The Right Perception (Series on Yoga-v¡siÀ¶ha R¡m¡ya¸a, Nirv¡¸a Prakara¸a)
Effect of keen listening
Sage VasiÀ¶ha concluded: Bi……∆ o˘Œπ]ı®…¥…π]ı¶™… ∫¥…|……h……¶™……∫…{…⁄Ã¥…EÚ…®…¬ * ¶…÷∂…÷hb˜¯¥…x®…Ω˛…§……Ω˛…‰ ¶…¥… i…“h…«®…Ω˛…h…«¥…: ** (6p.28.2)
Adopting this insight of pr¡¸¡y¡ma, with the orientation it brings about, swim across, like Bhu¿u¸·a, the huge ocean of worldly life.
Sri Rama replied: |…§…÷r˘…: ∫®…: |…æ˛π]ı…: ∫®…: |… ¥…π]ı…: ∫®…: ∫¥…®……∫{…n˘®…¬ * Œ∫l…i……: ∫®……‰ Y……i… ¥…Y…‰™…… ¶…¥…xi……‰ ¡{…Æ˙… <¥… ** +Ω˛…‰ ¶…÷∂…÷hb˜S… Æ˙i…∆ {…Æ∆˙ ¥…∫®…™…EÚ…Æ˙EÚ®…¬ * ¶…M…¥…x¶…¥…i…… |……‰HÚ®…÷k…®……l…«…¥…§……‰v…x…®…¬ ** (6p.28.7,8)
We are enlightened, delighted, and have entered into the spiritual expanse within. We have known whatever is to be known, to be like you, ‘almost a second you’!
O Master, the story of Bhu¿u¸·a, as narrated by you, is awe-inspiring, and greatly revealing. ¶…÷∂…÷hb˜S… Æ˙i…‰ •…¿z…‰i…Œ∫®…xEÚ l…i…‰ i¥…™…… * ™…SUÙÆ˙“Æ˙M…fiΩ∆˛ |……‰H∆Ú ®……∆∫…S…®……«Œ∫l… x…î…i…®…¬ ** i…iE‰Úx… x……®… Æ˙ S…i…∆ E÷Úi……‰ ¥…… i…i∫…®…÷Œil…i…®…¬ * EÚl…∆ ¥…… Œ∫l… i…®……™……i…∆ EÚ…‰ ¥…… i…j……¥… i…π`ˆi…‰ ** (6p.28.9, 10)
In Bhu¿u¸·a narration you have referred to the ‘body-house’ (¿ar¢ra-g¤ham), made up of flesh, bone and skin.
I would like to know by whom was this made, wherefrom has it arisen, how does it endure, and who abides therein.
Rama just heard Sage Vasi˦ha narrating his memorable visit to Meru Mountain
Vicharasetu - October 2009 4 and the dialogue he had with Bhu¿u¸·a, the illustrious crow, who was residing there, witnessing the dissolution and evolution of the visible world. The Sage also spoke to him about what Bhu¿u¸·a said about breath-regulation, by which he (Bhu¿u¸·a) was able to remain unaffected by all outward events, at the same time immersed in inner delight and abundance.
Rama absorbed the message, the last part of which related to how the mind gets sublimated and the intelligence illumined – a subject that has all-fold relevance to every seeker.
Obviously Rama did not venture into any of the breathing exercises. Nevertheless, he admits how the Sage’s instruction had full impact on him, making his mind even, sublime, contented and unaffected. He raises a question quite pertinent to jµ¡na-s¡dhan¡, its pursuit and goal.
Sage VasiÀ¶ha’s narration is meant to enrich the minds of Knowledge-austerity all seekers. Spiritual narration has that potential. comes under the Pareekshit went on listening to áukamuni for 7 days s¡ttvika category – continuously sitting in the same place, and derived all it is the highest, enrichment and enlightenment. Thus, reading or hearing the subtlest and the loftiest. any spiritual narration can also be a full-fledged s¡dhan¡. In fact, it is far greater than any bodily or sensory austerity. Knowledge-austerity comes under the s¡ttvika category – it is the highest, the subtlest and the loftiest.
Vasi˦ha Deva deals with the same subject from various angles and levels, in different styles and modes, to give it the varietal embellishment, but with a centric focus. Body has no Material Cause
Sage VasiÀ¶ha said: +Œ∫l…∫l…⁄h…∆ x…¥…u˘…Æ∆˙ Æ˙HÚ®……∆∫……¥…±…‰{…x…®…¬ * ∂…Æ˙“Æ˙∫…n˘x…∆ Æ˙…®… x… E‰Úx… S… n˘n∆˘ EfiÚi…®…¬ ** +…¶……∫…®……j…®…‰¥…‰n˘ ®…il…®…‰¥……¥…¶……∫…i…‰ * u˘S…xp˘ ¥…ß…®……EÚ…Æ∆˙ ∫…n˘∫…SS… ¥™…¥…Œ∫l…i…®…¬ ** u˘S…xp˘n˘∂…«x… ¥…v……Ë S…xp˘ u˘i¥…∆ ∫…nˢ¥… Ω˛ * ¥…∫i…÷i…∂S…ËEÚ B¥…‰xn÷˘: Œ∫l…i……‰ n‰˘Ω˛∫i…l…Ë¥… Ω˛ ** n‰˘Ω˛|…i™…™…EÚ…±…‰ Ω˛ n‰˘Ω˛…‰%™…∆ ∫…®…¥…Œ∫l…i…: * +∫…z…‰¥… S… ∫…k…∫®……i|……‰HÚ: ∫…n∫…n˘…i®…EÚ: **
Vicharasetu - October 2009 5 ∫¥…{x…‰ ∫¥…{x……¥…§……‰v…: ∫…∆∫i¥…x™…n˘… ∫… ®…÷v…Ë¥… Ω˛ * §…÷n¬˘§…÷n˘…‰ §…÷n¬˘§…÷n˘ ¥…v……Ë ∫…i™……‰ ®…l™…Ë¥… S……x™…n˘… ** (6p.28.12-16)
This residence called the body, Rama, having bones for its pillars, blood and flesh for its mortar, with nine doorways, is built by none.
This is but a reflection, shining like the illusion of two moons. It reigns as true and untrue alike.
On seeing, existence of two moons will be there. But in reality only one moon exists. Existence of our body is also likewise.
During the prevalence of the body-idea, this body exists as a fact, though illusory. Therefore, it is said to be real as well as unreal.
Dream awareness, like wakefulness, is true only during dream state. At other times, it is simply a non-existence. A bubble in water during its prevalence, seems true, but on getting blown out, turns to be a sheer illusion.
Sri Rama’s question is fundamental as well as ultimate. Though related to the body, it is equally true of the entire visible gross world of time, space and objects. Only when the matter-energy universe is there, the earth as a planet, on which we thrive, comes to be considered. We humans, as living beings, have been evolved on this earth, with a matter-energy body.
The genesis of the body implies the genesis of entire creation. Thus, Rama’s enquiry has a comprehensive relevance. And VasiÀ¶ha Deva’s answer also becomes supremely important. In fact, the source of the universe is what the modern science is also gripped with.
Sage Vasi˦ha says that the body, however gross, biological The body, however and functional, has no material cause, making its very gross, has no existence fallacious. Its existence as a reality is material cause, making its very unacceptable to reason. A human born of humans is real, existence fallacious. valid and acceptable. But if the first human is to be regarded as not having been born of other humans, his birth and prevalence become unauthentic, illusory, making the whole lineage also equally so. This is the case with the material world, as it cannot and did not have any material cause.
The world derives its prevalence from the mind itself, which has its power of sa´kalpa (imagination). Rationally viewed, as already said, materiality cannot have
Vicharasetu - October 2009 6 another material source. Naturally, its source has to be a ‘substance’ transcending matter. This is corroborated by the incidence of dream, which is a common experience. Mind is not material, yet it gives rise to a ‘material world’, fully akin to wakeful sensory world. Our body, a part of the world, is also a product of the mind itself.
While objective science bases its search and finding on The world experimental processes, aided by various instruments, derives its spirituality solely rests upon our senses, mind and intelligence. prevalence Intelligence first studies sensory experiences occurring in wakeful from the mind itself. state. But we have, in addition, dream and sleep states also. In sleep, are not wakeful experiences fully nullified, leading us to conclude that, whatever we experience as object world, is not real at all? Does it not lack continuance? Anything real has to be present in the past, present and future alike. Waking world does not conform to this requisite. Our intelligence cannot, therefore, accept it as real.
The test of anything existing is our experience of it. Thus our body becomes a fact, because it is experienced by us, through the mind. But when that experience is negated by the same mind, during sleep, what should we think of the reality and validity of the body as an undeniable existence?
To add to this is the occurrence of dream, in which the mind itself produces a body, a new world, and all the objects, like those we find in wakeful state. There is no doubt that our mind alone, all by itself, produces dream-body and dream- world, both of which are quite material and objective during their currency.
This clearly shows how the supra-material mind can suddenly give rise to material objects, and also withdraw them, to regain the wakeful state. So, it is the mind’s creative power that causes dream-body and dream-objects.
Vasi˦ha Deva says that this is the truth, no doubt, about the wakeful body and world objects too. Mind alone gives them the status of existence or reality, by virtue of being experienced. Understand that this status is no different from that of the dream-world.
Mind alone the basis for Perceived Phenomena
Sage VasiÀ¶ha continued: {… Æ˙ß…®… ∫… ®…‰Ø∆˚ ¥…… ∫… n‰˘Ω˛∫i…‰ C¥… ∫…∆Œ∫l…i…: * ∫¥…{x…‰π¥… {… S… ™…: ∫¥…{x…∫i…j… ™…‰x… ®…Ω˛“i…]ı…x…¬ **
Vicharasetu - October 2009 7 i…i∫…¥…» S…k…¥…“™…«∫™… ∫…∆EÚ±{…∫™… ¥…V…fiŒ®¶…i…®…¬ * n˘“P…«∫¥…{x… ®…®…∆ ¥… r˘ n˘“P…» ¥…… S…k… ¥…ß…®…®…¬ ** ∫…i™……‰ ™……‰ ¶……¥™…i…‰ Æ˙…®… ¶……¥…x……n˘…f¯¨«∫…∆¶…¥…: * ¶…… ¥…i…∆ i…“µ…¥…‰M…‰x… ™…n‰˘¥……∂…÷ i…n‰˘¥… Ω˛ ** i…l……™…∆ ¶……¥…x……¶™…∫i…: ∫…∆∫……Æ˙…‰%{™…¥…±……‰C™…i…‰ * ™…l…… ∫¥…{x……¥…x……Ë I…|…®…Ω˛™…«n˘¥…¶……∫…i…‰ ** (6p.28.22,28,37,39)
Rama, where is your body situated, when in dream, your mind wanders on the Meru? When you experience in dream various planes, where are they verily?
All that is manifest is what the valorous mind’s imagination spreads forth. So, know all this to be either a long dream or mind’s vibrant delusion (vibhramam).
Whatever is perceived as true, is the outcome of the strength of imagination. Whatever mind assiduously thinks and reflects, that indeed comes into being.
Thus, this world is seen to be real due to thoughts, which have become habitual. It is like a day in dream, which but lasts only for minutes.
The mind alone by the strength of imagination makes something appear as true. Besides the mind, no factor is involved in the process. But on thinking deeply, every form of existence becomes like thoughts and emotions within oneself. Thoughts, emotions and memory certainly have no gross objectivity at all. Yet, they are clearly felt. If without any solid, gross existence, these inner phenomena are experienced with their respective effects, is not the truth equally applicable to the perceptions mind causes through the senses – especially because all the perceptions are inner, within the mind itself? Samyak-¡lokanam – Truthful Perception
Sage VasiÀ¶ha continued: x… M…fiºh…… i… ®…±…∆ ¶…⁄™…∫i……©…i…… ®…¥… EÚ…\S…x…®…¬ * +…¶……∫…®……j…®…‰¥…‰n∆˘ x… ∫…z……∫…VV…M…j…™…®…¬ ** Vicharasetu - October 2009 8 The Soul does not contract impurity. Pure gold does not get stained as copper does. All the three worlds are only appearing to be, being neither real (sat) nor unreal (asat). The wholesome spiritual perception (samyak ¡lokanam) consists in abandoning all plural thoughts like death, life, heaven, knowledge and ignorance. The soul is singular and it cannot have any contamination, blemish or impurity, for, there is nothing besides the Soul. Attributing any kind of quality, movement or even attainment to the Soul, when properly viewed, has no meaning at all. Samyak ¡lokanam or samyak dar¿anam is what the seeker should aim at. In that, ideas like death, life, heaven, ignorance, etc. are to be simply eschewed. ∫…¥…» ∫¥……¶……∫…®…‰¥…‰ i… ∫…®™…M……±……‰EÚx…∆ ¥…n÷˘: * ∫…n˘∫…x®…™…∫…∆∫……Ɖ˙ ™…l…… ¶…⁄i……l…«n˘∂…«x……i…¬ ** x……∫i…®…‰ i… x… S……‰n‰˘ i… ∫…®™…M……±……‰EÚx……x®…x…: * x…h…‘™… ∫…¥…«¶……¥……x……®…∫…k¥…∆ ∫…k¥…®…‰¥… S… ** x… x…xn˘ i… x… S… ∫i……Ë i… x… æ˛π™… i… x… ∂……‰S… i… * ∂…“i…±……∆ ∫…i™…i……®…‰ i… ∫…®™…M……±……‰EÚx……x®…x…: ** (6p.28.50,51,53) By subtly perceiving the truth of objects, to come to know that all in this real-unreal world are but one’s own inner reflection, is the ‘truthful perception’ (samyak ¡lokanam). Having ascertained well, by the strength of truthful perception, the reality- cum-unreality of all things, the mind ceases to rise and set. By dint of comprehensive perception, neither blaming nor praising, neither rejoicing nor grieving, the mind attains the sublime coolness of truthful vision. If nothing besides the Self is there, then what is the so-called plurality one perceives, except reflections, as inside a mirror? When the delusion about the manifold tapers off, there arises an unending coolness and comfort, no matter what happens to or transpires in oneself or another. Sage VasiÀ¶ha said: x…‰n˘®……b®§…Æ∆˙ ¥™…l…«®…x…l……«™……¥…¶……∫…i…‰ * +Ω˛®…‰¥… Ω˛ ¥…… ∫…¥…» S… n˘i™…‰¥…∆ ¥…¶…… ¥…i…‰ ** (6p.28.71) Vicharasetu - October 2009 9 By thinking intensely “I alone am”, or “all this is Either ‘I’ alone Consciousness (cit) alone”, you will feel this world to displays Itself be just a pompous show, appearing for no real everywhere, or purpose, only to enmesh us. Consciousness alone manifests If everything is a creation of mind’s imagination, then why and reveals as all. be allured by the phenomenal display at all? Either ‘I’ alone displays Itself everywhere, or Consciousness alone manifests and reveals as all. How true disciple gets inundated with sublimity Sage VasiÀ¶ha continued: |…§……‰v…®…‰ Ω˛ {…∂™… ∫¥…®……i®……x…®…÷ n˘i…∆ ∫…n˘… * x…Ã¥…EÚ±{…∆ S…n˘…¶……∫…∆ |……i…:{…s∆ Æ˙À¥… ™…l…… ** |…§…÷v™…∫¥… |…§…÷v™…∫¥… {…÷x…:{…÷x…Æ˙™…∆ ®…™…… * |…§……‰v™…∫…‰ ®…Ω˛…§……Ω˛…‰ {…∂™……i®……E«Ú®…x……®…™…®…¬ ** ®…™…Ëi…‰x…… ¶…¥…fiπ]‰ıx… ∂…“i…‰x… Y……x…¥…… Æ˙h…… * ∫…÷∂…§n˘∂…… ±…x…… Æ˙…®… ¡x…‰x…Ë¥…… ∫… §……‰ v…i…:** §……‰v…®……∫……n˘™… {…Æ∆˙ |…§……‰v……‰%tË¥… Æ˙…P…¥… * ∫…i™…®……±……‰EÚ™……±…“E∆Ú i™…Ci¥…‰®…∆ V……M…i…∆ ß…®…®…¬ ** x… i…‰ V…x®… x… i…‰ n÷:J…∆ x… n˘…‰π……∫i…‰ x… i…‰ ß…®……: * ∫…¥…» ∫…∆EÚ±{…®…÷i∫…fiV™… i…π`ˆ…i®… x… ∫…÷∫…∆Œ∫l…i…: ** (6p.28.90-94) Attain illumination. See your Self as always shining – doubtless and sentient. Let it be to you like the sun to the morning lotus. Be illumined, be illumined, again and again. I am awakening you. See the Sun of Self, free of all discomfort and disorder. I have enlightened you by the cooling shower of beautiful words of wisdom, and you are rightly illumined by this. Today itself attain supreme knowledge. Realizing the truth, abandon this worldly delusion. You have neither birth, nor pain. Neither do you have any evil nor delusion. Leaving all imaginations, be poised in your own Self. Rama, be wise and enlightened today itself, says VasiÀ¶ha Deva. Illumination Vicharasetu - October 2009 10 comes to the intelligence, as light comes to eyes. Enlightenment Enlightenment is is in fact the sensitive absorption of what is exposed by the the sensitive Wise. See the supreme truth everywhere and in all. absorption of what is exposed Here is a hearty communication between a Wise Teacher by the Wise. (Guru) and a receptive student (¿iÀya). Teacher’s words, when absorbed with keenness, bring about such a sublimity that engulfs and enlightens the seeker without let or hindrance. The transition and fruition are easy, facile and fast. (to be continued) Vicharasetu - October 2009 11 Is Sanny¡sa a must for Enlightenment? - II [Continued from Jan 2010 issue. Revised reprint of the article published in Vicharasetu, October 1975.] Disciple: Swamiji, can we say that dawning of true spiritual enlightenment results in renunciation? In other words, are wisdom and sanny¡sa coeval? Swamiji: To think of external renunciation in the context of actual spiritual wisdom is but natural. In fact, ‘renounced way of life’ is the visible, external corollary of the invisible, inner enlightenment. At one time, nay many times, the question will arise in the seeker (or even the Seer): “If the Self, which I am, is devoid of all relationships, and bondages arising from such relationships, then, why am I preserving the ties of the body, which are the ways of the ignorant? Ah, how blessed shall I be, if I could be freed from all these entanglements!” Again, to be delighting in wisdom, is also to be delighting in To be delighting renunciation. Just as a married person goes about with his in wisdom, is wife and children, the wise or the enlightened one moves about also to be with seekers and disciples born out of his ‘wisdom-wedlock’. delighting in renunciation. As is the former natural for the married, so is the latter for the enlightened. Disciple: Swamiji, I understand that true sannys¡sa, based on spiritual wisdom, implies a wider outlook of life. Will it involve change of relationship with the society? How will a sanny¡sin (or an enlightened soul) relate himself to the society and how should the society look at him? Swamiji: A person of enlightenment is very rare. At the same time, the need for such a one in every society can be felt every time. As Bhagavadgeet¡ describes him, he is the most wonderful person, having attained the most wonderful state – the Self itself being the most wonderful. His wonderfulness makes him dear and near to many a seeker and afflicted soul. People will rush to him for succour, finding him steeped in matchless goodness and benevolence. To make himself available for such a new mission – involving a unique role of loka-sa´graha by which all around him will be benefited – it is desirable that he gets away from bodily relationships, and throws open a new vista around him. In fact, it is with this in view that sanny¡sa or the life of renunciation is described as a way of life or pursuit aimed at liberating oneself, and simultaneously promoting the welfare of the world – ¡tmanaÅ mokÀ¡rthaÆ jagat hit¡ya ca. Vicharasetu - October 2009 12 Our unique cultural thoughts as well as laws of dharma have emanated from the minds of such renounced and dedicated ascetics, no matter whether they were ascetics in a physically visible manner or not. Years of dedicated thinking, with the mind remaining free from usual clutches of passion, prejudice and fear (r¡ga, dveÀa and bhaya) have been their wont. Through their austerity, they have evolved the code of conduct and norms of righteousness, applicable for one and all in every section of the society. To be able to offer redemption to the afflicted and ignorant souls, who, unable to contain their agitations and doubts, seek the feet of the enlightened, the latter has certainly to be magnificent in every way. He should be like a moving God, with a heart as vast as the sky, and as deep as the ocean. How can such magnificence be reached and preserved except when one gets away from the limiting environments of the so-called family and familial relations, in the usual sense of the terms? Renunciation is coeval with true spiritual wisdom in two Renunciation is respects. One is that true wisdom irresistibly brings in the sense coeval with of renunciation – renunciation of the ego. Thereafter, it also true spiritual induces the wise to lead a free life, not burdened by the wisdom. constricted and selfish demands of the blood and matrimonial relations. Naturally, the sanny¡sa way of life became the custom of such people. Also, recognizing the greatness of sanny¡sa, people started taking to sanny¡sa as a pursuit for attaining the supreme spiritual wisdom, the unique Knowledge of the Self. Disciple: A householder has his difficulties due to blood and matrimonial relationships and the resulting ‘bonds’. A sanny¡sin in his ashram, with seekers flocking around him, will also have his own set of relationships and ‘bonds’. Then, where lies the difference? Swamiji: Life with blood and matrimonial relations constantly promotes bodily- notions. In other words, every time you look at your son or daughter or any other relative, the sight will reinforce and multiply the basic notion that “I am the body”. All these persons are related on the grounds of your body, its birth and worldly actions. If you want to be rid of or transcend these ideas, then you will have to constantly work against them. Of course, enlightenment will always come to your help. Vicharasetu - October 2009 13 But life without these relations, in the company of those others, who come to you in a purely spiritual background, is in full contrast. The only relationship you can think of while moving with them, is the spiritual one. In spiritual relationships, furtherance and strengthening of Renunciation is spirituality alone is the aim and the result. This ‘bond’ can taken up with a never be anything like the usual familial attachments and view to pursue the identifications. As the seeker is reminded of the Soul, so spiritual wisdom will he also be reminded of the soul-relationship by the sight exclusively. and company of those who live with him. As is his life one of renunciation, so also is that of other seekers who, by coming together, are driven to the same spiritual pursuits and aims. The very life of renunciation is taken up with a view to pursue the spiritual wisdom exclusively. Everything done in such a life is for and around the Soul- wisdom. Such a life has its unique merits and effects, no doubt. Devotee: You have always been emphasizing knowledge and role of intelligence in refining and enriching oneself. In this background, Swamiji, please tell us: How should one evaluate wisdom? And, what should be the importance given to its pursuit? Swamiji: Of all attainments of mankind, that of knowledge stands unique. Wisdom is the one factor that has made mankind what it is. Naturally, anyone given to the pursuit and promotion of wisdom, in himself as well as in others, is to be reckoned with appropriately. Also, of all possessions, one of wisdom is held to be the greatest for its inestimable value and benefit. Unlike other forms of wealth, wisdom or knowledge goes on increasing the more it is given to others. A man of wisdom, by sharing his wisdom with the seekers and enquirers who come to him, will only be increasing his own wisdom. The pursuit of wisdom by oneself also implies giving it to others. The imparting of wisdom has the effect of the most august austerity too, in the matter of forging purity and goodness in one and all. Devotee: You have often said that sanny¡sa is the pinnacle or the ultimate fulfillment of human life. Swamiji, will you please explain it further? Swamiji: In Sanny¡sin is dedication to the Supreme raised to its pinnacle. For, he never looks for any other source of support or favour. Rarely can this be found in another individual. áa´kara gave a new lustre and variety to the life of Vicharasetu - October 2009 14 renunciation to make it win religious and cultural appeal. In Sanny¡sin is He found all the other vestiges inadequate to fulfill the dedication to the immortal Upanishadic requirements. Upholding this lofty Supreme raised to its pinnacle. culture, he named ten new orders (called Da¿an¡m¢): Pur¢, Giri, Parvata, Vana, Ara¸ya, S¡gara, Ë¿rama, T¢rtha, Bh¡rat¢ and Sarasvat¢. Da¿an¡m¢s became the brilliant lot of sanny¡sins ever since. Later, others too emulated the ideal, with minor differences. But sanny¡sa, as a culture, an order of life, as the zenith of spiritual civilization, existed right from Vedic ages. It got shaped after Upanishadic thoughts and background: ved¡nta-vijµ¡na-suni¿cita-arth¡Å sanny¡sa-yog¡t yatayaÅ ¿uddha-sattv¡Å Ascertaining the Truth proclaimed in Vedanta, the striving ascetics, through sanny¡sa-yoga attain pure mind (¿uddha-sattv¡Å). The course is clear even now. The object of pursuit (arthaÅ) is The ultimate to be determined (suni¿citaÅ) on the basis of evaluation made object to be by Vedanta (ved¡nta-vijµ¡na). Guided by it does the renunciate’s won reigns life take shape. It makes people strive hard for purity of heart within oneself. and mind. The ultimate object to be won reigns within oneself. It is the Ëtm¡, which can be known only through contemplation and aloneness. Devotee: I understand that sanny¡sa is a unique concept of our culture – not found anywhere else in the world. Wherefrom did the idea of sanny¡sa emerge? Swamiji: Sages, given to contemplation, derive power to probe into the very core of existence. The power comes from the absorption into their very source during meditation. Without waiting to judge or measure, they merge into their own within. In that merger, all boundaries stand dissolved, extinct. The inward source is struck. It is that, from which all measurements proceed, creation commences, time originates. They come face to face with the Creator and His creational magic. The ability is subjective. It depends upon personal worth and excellence. Sanny¡sa is the ultimate design and purpose of human life – maybe, the last object of pursuit for many. Yes, it is verily so! The Creator does his ‘work’ because of the spirit of sanny¡sa he is able to preserve in the process. In fact, throughout life, we live only to outlive. Ultimately, you should outlive your body before it falls. Does it happen? Sanny¡sa exhorts you: “Will you learn Vicharasetu - October 2009 15 to outlive everything before your body leaves? Can you transcend death by realizing your immortality before the body falls? If not, colossal will be the loss.” The ancient Vedic Sages discovered this secret, by inner communion – that is how the concept of sanny¡sa emerged. They divulged it with fervour to their intimate disciples. They sang and danced, filled with the freedom and joy it gave. It was evolved into an ideal, practised as a culture, disseminated as a staunch pursuit, to be adopted and tried by every one, sooner or later. Being the ultimate truth of our life, of the Creator’s way, it derived eternal status, power and fame. Ever since, sanny¡sa and sanny¡sins have adorned our country in each era. Entry into it is an assortment. As a cherished goal, beloved pursuit, a distress measure, to gain strength for serving people, to instill dharma and impart wisdom into the masses, to glorify the Creator, to exemplify His mercy, to save oneself and others – thus, numerous are the inspirations and persuasions of seekers. But all do converge. Kings who ruled and got disgusted in the end, found solace and answer in sanny¡sa. Emperors who loved to conquer, laid their weapons and surrendered at the feet of sanny¡sins, accepting them as Teachers and Saviours. Householders leave home, property and relations to find fulfillment in sanny¡sa. Sanny¡sa is the acme of every human endeavour and attainment. That alone can answer the ultimate human needs, making man full at heart and free. The eternal culture has stood itself, from then till today. It Spirit of sanny¡sa institutes itself in made no organization or creed for support. No institution individual hearts was meant to be born of it. Spirit of sanny¡sa institutes itself and minds. in individual hearts and minds. By its own beauty, compulsion and worth, it appeals to one and all. Devotee: I am trying to grasp the dimension of sanny¡sa. What are the limits, and also merits and range of sanny¡sa? Swamiji: There is none to set rules or limits to sanny¡sa or a Sanny¡sin. Insight into all rules and norms proceeds from the might of sanny¡sa. To know the basis of moral laws, you must go to the centre of human mind, from where it drifts into morality as well as immorality. Good and bad are accretions. A point precedes these, where Sanny¡sa dwells, ruling and mastering these. Motion follows stationary-state. So too, time commences from naught. Sanny¡sa holds both the predecessors. Magnificent and powerful, it nourishes all, even the Creator. Vicharasetu - October 2009 16 V¡lm¢ki nursed pregnant Sita because of the gifts of sanny¡sa. Maharshi Ka¸va ‘parented’ áakuntala with the same merits and glory. Their solitude did not make their minds hollow or insensitive. The spirit grew larger, to receive and solve the distresses of even Rama and Vi¿v¡mitra. Sanny¡sa knows only to grow and triumph. It will penetrate into any corner, permeate all directions, assimilate everything, and deliver well-being wherever it enters and thrives. The entire majesty of sanny¡sa lives in individuals – it works Far from being through individual minds. Far from being passive, sanny¡sa passive, sanny¡sa is incredibly creative. Give any insoluble or irreconcilable is incredibly problem to it, it will resolve. Ask for any strength from it, it creative. will bestow. Direct it to fulfill your needs or those of the society, it will deliver. Compared to the work sanny¡sa and sanny¡sins can do, that of organized institutions, social or political, is too short-living. Seeking no memorials except its own votaries, no partnership except its own pursuit, sanny¡sa has lived for thousands of years already. Our country is what it is because of sanny¡sa and sanny¡sins. All the rest is either history or geography. Outliving historical challenges, cutting across geographical boundaries, sanny¡sins, by their unrecorded pursuit, have breathed cohesion and loftiness into the society, making it a strong and ever-living civilization. (Concluded) Spiritual wisdom is aimed at making the mind light, the intelligence clear and the ego extinct, resulting in the dawning of an illumined and expansive personality. Imbued with deep inner strength, freedom and stability, the Knower begins to live and move in the world with brilliance and a note of benevolence. His mind delights in universal fondness and dispossession, which naturally blossom into a life of renunciation – the crowning glory of spiritual wisdom. — Swamiji Vicharasetu - October 2009 17 The Transforming áibiram A Report — Mala S The S¡dhan¡ áibiram was conducted at Narayanashrama Tapovanam from 15th to the 22nd of December 2009, and the participants arrived on the 14th to practise intense s¡dhan¡ in Guru-sannidhi. The core message of what Poojya Swamiji, M¡ and Nutan Swamiji communicated during the week-long áibiram, can be summarized as: “Whatever you do must purify the mind and intelligence”. Not only the intense hours of study, but every action performed by the participants, whether in the publications department or Annakshetra, or any other area got the right focus and direction. “Be grateful for the mistakes,” said M¡ gently, “it will help you learn and grow”. Even before the start of the áibiram, Poojya Swamiji’s satsangs and talks were centered on the subject of refining the mind and intelligence: “The intelligence will have to constantly analyze your likes and dislikes to make every action enriching and elevating. Whatever you do, do with a larger vision.” ‘The study and handling of the mind’ was the subject taken up by Poojya Swamiji on the first two days of the áibiram. “Mind, intelligence and ego,” said Swamiji, “are all functional aspects of Consciousness. While Consciousness is an unfathomable ocean, the mind is merely a wave.” Swamiji repeatedly stressed the need to understand the mind’s inheritance as well as its vast potential to grow. “Though we are governed by our inheritance, we can always change the qualities of the mind by utilizing our intelligence. The intelligence that is usually applied to sensory matters, has to be used for mind- refinement also,” said Swamiji. Acceding to the request of the participants, Swamiji also took up the subject of the four Yogas: Jµ¡na, Karma, Bhakti and R¡ja yoga. He effortlessly drove home the point that in all Yogas, the real emphasis is on the mind and intelligence. “The final goal is to train the mind to be still and absorbed in Itself.” “Never slipping from the awareness that you are the non-acting singular Self, is Jµ¡na Yoga” … “Karma Yoga is remaining unaffected by all karmas and their results. The Yoga treatment is to the mind, to the subjective impact of the objective Vicharasetu - October 2009 18 results.”… “In Bhakti Yoga, everything is offered to the Lord. The correction and purity are contained in the devotional attitude and response.”… “In R¡ja Yoga, physical and respiratory disciplines are incorporated. Will is exercised to strengthen the mind, to keep it unruffled by the senses and objects. Ultimately, the mind alone is applied in meditation, to reach Sam¡dhi”. In the group discussions following Swamiji’s morning classes, the groups would study, discuss and analyze each and every concept. The scribe appointed by each group would then pen down the questions that arose and they would be duly raised before Swamiji during the night satsang. Even some concepts that might have been clear, would be put forward to Swamiji for further elaboration. Swamiji, in spite of an entire day of intense meetings related to the upcoming Bh¡gavata Satram and other programmes, would kindly and cheerfully explain the points in the after-dinner sessions. It would be very difficult for a seeker not to develop a love for chanting ¿lokas taught by M¡. In the afternoon classes, M¡ took up verses dealing with devotion and dispassion. Chanting the verses again and again following M¡, giving special attention to ucc¡ra¸a (pronunciation) and tune, the participants could distinctly feel the effect of the ¿lokas on their mind and body. The meaning of the eight ¿lokas taken up became crystal clear with M¡’s explanations, reading of the English translations and the word meanings. They are something the seekers could repeatedly chant back home and introspect over to bring about the all- essential purity of mind. The uniqueness of the message and background of the Bhagavadgeet¡ was highlighted by Nutan Swamiji in his afternoon classes. “Through Bhagavadgeeta,” said Nutan Swamiji, “Brahmavidy¡, which was reserved only for renunciates, was made available to all. The saadhana prescribed in this gospel can be followed by any seeker involved in any field of activity, provided he wants to make his mind expansive and free.” Demonstrating the cycle of bondage and the way to liberation with the help of two diagrams, Nutan Swamiji explained how constantly thinking of worldly objects and situations (viÀaya-dhy¡na) leads to clinging (sa´ga) to them, which makes us slaves to objects, leading to further desires. A practitioner of the yoga of Bhagavadgeet¡, however, can attain freedom from this chain by treating the desires at the causal level by practising the samatva-attitude, doing s¡ttvic karma, having a yajµa vision towards all actions, and an attitude of surrender to the Supreme Vicharasetu - October 2009 19 Intelligence. This purification at the causal level results in sublimation of desires leading finally to Self-realization. There were group meditation sessions with Swamiji, M¡ and Nutan Swamiji in the tranquil hours of the morning on the concluding two days of the áibiram. These sessions in the austere atmosphere of the Ashram and the holy company of the Saints were greatly sublimating for the participants. M¡t¡ji Sulabh¡ Devi’s Mah¡sam¡dhi Day was observed on the 17th of December and the áibiram participants got the opportunity to be part of the sublime event. A poignant and touching recording of M¡t¡ji’s songs and bhajans was compiled by a young devotee, Sri Aravindan, and offered by him at the feet of Poojya Swamiji. This recording was played at the beginning of the programme. Devotees present felt captivated, hearing the soulful voice of M¡t¡ji. Poojya Swamiji gifted a copy of the CD to Mataji’s poorvashrama son Ramakrishnan (Hari) who had come from Chennai for the occasion. Rati and Rekha (from Malaysia) performed the P¡da-pooj¡ at the feet of Poojya Gurudev. After the P¡da-pooj¡, M¡ recalled how M¡t¡ji was fond of a simple secluded life, and how she would sing constantly about her Lord in her nectarine voice. Poojya Swamiji in his talk recounted the early days when M¡t¡ji arrived at the Ashram to pursue her s¡dhan¡ exclusively. “Her one-pointed devotion and Self-seatedness were her unique and natural assets,” said Swamiji. The devotees then went in a procession singing n¡masa´keertana, from Vijµ¡na Bhavan to Sam¡dhi Mandir where they offered flower petals at Poojya Swamiji’s feet and M¡t¡ji’s shrine. More than 200 devotees partook of the bhakti bhojana which was a veritable feast prepared by cooks called specially for the occasion. The same evening saw the indigent in and around Thrissur arriving to receive rice packets from Poojya Swamiji. During the bhajans that followed, the hearts of devotees spilt over with joy when they saw their Swamiji singing and dancing surrounded by his beloved devotees. The áibiram participants also had the pleasure of getting acquainted with the new kittens at the Ashram. Mahashweta, Shweta and Krishnakali, aptly so named by Nutan Swamiji, would join the regular feline group outside the Annakshetra. Mahashweta, a tiny white bundle of mischief with wonderful blue eyes, specially captured hearts by her various acrobatic feats. One day, she went off her food and no amount of coaxing by Nutan Swamiji and others would induce her to eat. Vicharasetu - October 2009 20 Very soon she was skin and bones and had to be settled inside a little box to be fed with frequent doses of fluid until she passed away gracefully, uncomplainingly. A seeker at the Ashram is never short of opportunities to learn and grow. A memorable night satsang with M¡ and Nutan Swamiji after the áibiram gave the devotees a unique and rare opportunity to know about their days of s¡dhan¡ when they were in IIT - Kharagpur. The devotees were inspired to learn how their communion with nature – the trees and plants, the sky and the open meadow, the birds, squirrels and other animals – evoked deepest spiritual thoughts. It became clear to us how every interaction could be used to expand the mind and sublimate the intelligence. M¡ also talked about how the time spent on in-depth study of scriptures contributed greatly to her spiritual advancement. “Be grateful for all the free time you get,” said M¡. What was the effect of the áibiram on the s¡dhakas? They felt energized, enriched, rejuvenated and inspired. But what were they going to take home from the Ashram to sustain their spiritual s¡dhan¡? Sharing their innermost thoughts, the participants vowed that with the experiences gained during the áibiram, they would definitely intensify their s¡dhan¡. “Cutting down on television time at night” said a devotee “would help reduce object influences and help me get up early for meditation, reading or prayer”. “I intend to increase the time I spend for meditational s¡dhan¡,” resolved another. “I am going to spend more hours on introspection,” asserted another participant. “Practising chanting of ¿lokas in the manner taught by M¡ is my goal,” vowed another. The feedback about the programme from participants was: ❒ Enriching, making the intelligence vibrant. ❒ Highly beneficial; greatly enlightening. ❒ A good learning experience, with many concepts getting cleared. ❒ The answers to all my enquires about the Self, world and its varying complexities have unfolded during the discourses. ❒ My humble prostration to Poojya Swamiji, Nutan Swamiji and M¡. They have planted the seed of Self-realization in me. Poojya Swamiji during a night satsang asked each and every devotee to foster the feeling that he/she is first and foremost a seeker. This ‘awareness’ is what we as Swamiji’s devotees should take home. Everything else we do in our lives being Vicharasetu - October 2009 21 incidental, our main identity is that of a seeker. We could take home the knowledge that we have to divinize every action to bring in the necessary refinement and sublimation to our mind and intelligence. We could take home the awareness that we must develop an expansive, societal and universal vision. The best method would be, however, to simply install Poojya Swamiji, M¡ and Nutan Swamiji in our hearts and surrender every action we perform at their holy feet. Jai Guru! Vicharasetu - October 2009 22 A Knowledge-Festivity 8th áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram — Satish Bhat 8th áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram was held from December 25, 2009 to January 3, 2010 in Paralikkad Naimish¡ra¸yam (Thrissur Dist.) in the sacred precincts of Tacchanatthukavu Devi Temple. Swami Prakashanandaji Maharaj, President of Shivagiri Varkala Matt, presided over the function. Thrissur Thekkemadom Mooppil Sri Sankarananda Brahmananda Bhooti Swamiar released the 8th book (K¤tyaÆ nirvahicchu K¤À¸a¸ vi¿ramattil) written by Poojya Swamiji, based on 10th skandha of áreemad Bh¡gavatam. An atmosphere of divinity, with overall discipline prevailed throughout during the Satram, as expressed by some of the regular exponents, who felt that the serenity they experienced at the Satra¿¡l¡ of Naimish¡ra¸yam was not found anywhere else. This made their commitment even stronger. Consequently, a number of these distinguished exponents gave special focus to the invaluable inner treasure, the Text repeatedly reveals. Every day thousands of people assembled at the Satra¿¡l¡. It was indeed a great Knowledge-Festivity (Jµ¡na-mahotsava) of a unique kind. Outstation scholars and devotees were provided accommodation. Construction of Pravakt¤ Dh¡ma to host speakers, was completed in time. Many new facilities were set up at Naimish¡ra¸yam. Elaborate arrangements were made to provide anna-d¡na for all. Facilities at Annakshetra, work-area, vegetable store and toilets were enhanced and many of these are now permanent structures. Public response during the event was quite encouraging. Many felt that this year’s event excelled the earlier ones. Coverage by Thrissur Cable Vision (TCV) – the local TV network – was a significant addition to the disseminational efforts. Many viewers reported that they did not know of such a great yearly event, and they verily missed it all these years. Coming to know of ViÀ¸u-sahasran¡ma S¡rvajanika Mah¡yajµa, hundreds of people thronged the Satra¿¡l¡ on January 03, to participate in it. Nearly 1200 devotees, dressed and seated in traditional style in twelve rows, did archan¡ and havan. Participation during other days was also encouraging, notwithstanding the untimely rain one day. The most striking part was the record attendance at Satram on the 4th day, in spite of there being a full ‘bandh’, with public transport coming to stand still. Poojya Swamiji had exhorted the devotees and seekers to take up Vicharasetu - October 2009 23 an ‘austere-walk’ and be in the Satra¿¡l¡ for the whole day, setting an example for everyone. People heeded the call beyond expectations, making the subject a talk of the area. Earlier, series of ‘Awareness Meetings’ (Vilambara yogas) about the Knowledge- festivity (Jµ¡na-mahotsava) were held in areas surrounding Naimish¡ra¸yam, Narayanashrama Tapovanam, Thrissur, and Guruvayur. The message of the event and its unique benefits, reached many new places. Poojya Swamiji himself addressed these Announcement Meetings in Thrissur, Guruvayur, Irunnalangkode, Tirur, Paralikkad Siva Temple, Mullakkara, Pallippuram, Kodannur, Venginissery and other places, a week before the Satram. The effects were significant. Devotees understood that while temple worship is necessary, it is only a preliminary step in the ladder of devotion, and that real devotion implies removing impurities from the mind, making it broader and expansive. This new-found awareness led them to express the need for more knowledge- festivities to be conducted in their own vicinity. Many of them now wish to hold discourses on Bhagavadgeet¡, with focus on sound human values. Obviously, this is a novel value-orientation awareness taking root in the minds and hearts of the people. One wonders: Is Poojya Swamiji’s sa´kalpa – that the values enunciated in áreemad Bh¡gavatam should become the warp and woof of daily life in the society – beginning to manifest? On the concluding day, Poojya Swamiji announced that the next Satram will be held from Dec 24, 2010 to Jan 02, 2011. Devotees in and around Naimish¡ra¸yam are looking forward to it with keen interest and fond expectancy. While it is a pleasing note, it is also a call for enhanced commitment from all lovers of values. Jai Guru! Vicharasetu - October 2009 24 Correspondence Developing Empathy when Faced with Maltreatment 18 May 2007 Poojya Swamiji: Pra¸¡m. For long I have been reading all the articles of Vicharasetu, and I love reading them. Somehow, I am not able to understand one thing: When somebody has misbehaved with you in the past, how can you forget that? It is not easy for a person like me – I am a sensitive person. I keep on brooding over the same old thing. That person is now staying with me. Bound by duty, I am looking after that person to the best of my ability. But there is no love attached in my looking after. I am bitter in my heart. I do my duties towards that person, but I don’t feel like talking to that person. Tell me: What to do? Seeking Blessings, V * * * 16 June 2007 Dear and blessed V: HariÅ Om Tat Sat. Your letter of 18th May is before me. It is heartening to hear that Vicharasetu messages are to your relish. Let this continue. You are blessed. Your question: It is difficult for any mind to feel normal with The difficulty someone, who has misbehaved with you. How to face it? Dear before you is not V, the difficulty before you is not due to him – or anyone else due to him – or anyone else – – but yourself! Should you not strive for your elevation on but yourself! every occasion, with every one? Can the answer ever be: “No”? One commits a wrong mainly due to ignorance or helplessness in governing his conduct. Mind’s impurities – selfishness and possessiveness – overpower him. These Vicharasetu - October 2009 25 are the common ills of every human. Therefore, whenever anyone ill-treats you, understand that he is in a mental crisis. Feel sympathy for him. When you have some kind of ‘bond’ or ‘relationship’ with One commits a the one who has misbehaved, you have to be with him again. wrong mainly due Treat him just as you would treat your own misbehaving to ignorance or son. By that, you gain covetable purity. In this light, his helplessness in governing his misbehaviour acts as a blessing, helping you ascend mentally. conduct. To foster any hatred to the misbehaving person is very wrong, even sinful. That is indeed a greater misbehaviour! Mind you, the dislike lies within you! It is in your mind! A disliking or hateful mind is the worst misfortune. Nothing more is needed to be miserable! Thinking thus, be calm and compassionate. The other has misbehaved, you have not. What is it to you? At best, a test! If you also misbehave, then the crime shifts to you! Let the mind heed the intelligence, and intelligence provide the timely introspection. I always say: Intelligence should reflect and help the mind constantly. Buddhi’s influence alone will set the mind right. Use this introspection and you will feel better. This is about the attitude towards the misbehaviour of X you are carrying in your mind. What about so many other instances, where too the mind needs sublimation? To anything in the world – disorder, cruelty, raping, dacoity or anything else – you should only feel compassionate, not resentful at all. That is how the mind gets enriched. On any account whatever, is it right to carry bitterness? Love and ¡¿¢rv¡d. M¡ and Nutan Swamiji send you loving good wishes. Antar¡tm¡, Swamiji Vicharasetu - October 2009 26 News & Notes HariÅ Om Tat Sat. During April-June this year, we plan to be in United States in pursuit of Brahmavidy¡ dissemination. (Exact dates and venue details are mentioned in the main news section.) The visit includes a 3- day retreat in a Retreat Centre in Virginia. It will cover the National Holiday, so that participants will have 3 consecutive days together. This is the first time an event of this kind is being arranged. Nutan Swamiji will reach by mid-April to interact with different sections of people and seekers of Truth. I shall be proceeding by May 3rd week, with M¡. In addition to the retreat, there will also be discourses and satsangs (spiritual discussions) in other locations. We shall be in Dallas in the lst week of June. As you know, CIRD (NA) is a non-profit organization, registered in United States. It has been serving as a platform for seekers to meet regularly for pursuing and propagating Brahmavidy¡. CIRD (NA) publishes an e- Newsletter (Ëtma-¿akti – Harnessing the Infinite; website: http//cirdna.org), and also arranges tele-conferences with us. I would like you to know about our visit and also inform your family members, relatives and friends, who are in the US, so that they may also be benefited by the programmes. It might also be a support to the effort of CIRD (NA) in one way or another. In all these matters, the sense of sharing and common interest is what counts. This societal dimension alone will expand the mind, taking it to loftier dimensions. The contact sources in US are: Sri Anand Krishnan ([email protected]), Sri Pankaj Bhatia (703-351-1391: [email protected]), Sri Bharat Govindani (703-861-4230: [email protected]). CIRD-NA email – [email protected]. Please also let us know directly (by email) the details of people you are informing, so that the programme details/ changes can be intimated in time. — Swamiji Vicharasetu - October 2009 27 ❑ Jµ¡na Yajµa at CIRD - North America: Poojya Swamiji accompanied by M¡ Gurupriy¡ji will arrive in USA in the 3rd week of May. Brni. Namrata Swaroopa will travel along with them. Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji will reach earlier, by mid-April, to conduct Vedanta classes at selected locations. Br. Prasanna Swaroopa will accompany him. To facilitate greater public participation and opportunity for Guru-sannidhi during the Jµ¡na Yajµa, CIRD-NA will host Poojya Swamiji, Nutan Swamiji and M¡ in an independent bungalow in Virginia. ● Programmes in Virginia Centre of CIRD-NA Poojya Swamiji’s Brahmavidy¡ dissemination in USA includes ‘Memorial Day Retreat’ during the weekend May 28-31 at the Airlie Conference Centre, Warrenton, Virginia. The place has been specially chosen for its peaceful, sylvan environment. ● Programmes in Dallas Poojya Swamiji and M¡ Gurupriy¡ji will be in Dallas during Jun 4-7. They will be hosted at the residence of Sri A Balakrishnan (Balu & Bindu). There will be discourses and satsangs in a few locations in Dallas. For more information on the Dallas program contact: Sri A Balakrishnan (Balu) (617-816-6062: balu.am @gmail.com) or Sri Jayanth (972-459-4765: [email protected]) * * * ❑ 46th Jamshedpur Annual Jñ¡na Yajña and Programmes in Kolkata: As announced earlier, Poojya Swamiji accompanied by M¡ Gurupriy¡ji will leave on Feb 07 for Jamshedpur, via Kolkata. Brni. Vinaya Swaroopa will also travel with them. Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji will join them at Jamshedpur on Feb 21. The 5-day discourse will be held in Madrasi Sammelani between Feb 14 & 18. ViÀ¸u-sahasra-n¡ma S¡moohika Yajµa will be held on Feb 28. Poojya Swamiji, M¡ Gurupriy¡ji and Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji will return to the Ashram on Mar 06. Contact: Sri R.S.Tiwari (0657) 2942272; Sri Sujit Sengupta 2306180/94313 03590; Prof. S.R. Sahu 2303154/94307 16106; Smt. Rumni Sengupta 2234567/94311 84333. * * * ❑ S¡dhan¡ áibiram at SIRD, Malaysia (Feb 12-19): Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji will travel to SIRD Malaysia on Feb 11 to conduct the S¡dhan¡ áibiram at the Centre there. Br. Prasanna Swaroopa will accompany him. During the week- Vicharasetu - October 2009 28 long áibiram, apart from the informal Satsangs, there will be morning classes on Ka¶hopanishad and evening classes on Bhagavadgeet¡. Contact (Malaysia): SIRD- Malaysia 603-7781 6110; Sri Unnikrishnan 603-5635 8539; Smt Vasanta/Sri Param 603-7955 0580; Sri Jeyabalasingham 601-2316-9533. * * * ❑ CIRD-Delhi Programme (Mar 22 - Apr 05): Poojya Swamiji along with Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji and M¡ Gurupriy¡ji will be in CIRD, Vasundhara (near Delhi) from Mar 22 till Apr 05 to conduct the S¡dhan¡ áibiram at the Centre. * * * ❑ Talk on “Wholesome Leadership” to IAS Officers: On January 8 morning, Poojya Swamiji addressed (through video-conference) the participants of a 6-day programme “Ethics in Public Governance” held at Asia Plateau, Panchgani, Pune. It was part of a special programme for Indian Civil Service Officers conducted from Jan 4th to 9th. Twenty-eight Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, holding key positions in various Ministries and other Government Organizations, took part in the event. The objective of the programme was to provide a unique opportunity for the IAS officers to i) tap their own and each others’ inner resources for inspiration and learning, ii) evolve a paradigm of Ethical leadership and Governance, iii) discuss case studies and research on Civil service issues, and iv) explore the balance between family and professional life for wholesome living. The last ¿loka of the Bhagavadgeet¡ (Yatra yoge¿varaÅ … 18.78) was used as the theme-statement for the event. Poojya Swamiji addressed the participants on “Wholesome Leadership, Wholesome Life – Inspiration from Wholeness”. The inspiring talk was followed by question- answer session that lasted for nearly 2 hours. The discussions focused on mind and its potentials, role of intelligence in shaping ethical behaviour, genesis of unethical conduct, methods to generate and maintain motivation, purpose of life, spirituality indispensable in ethical governance, etc. After the highly motivating interactive session, Poojya Swamiji, at their request, administered a pledge to the officers, to stand together for providing the country a corruption-free governance, and to strive for preserving National values and prestige. * * * Vicharasetu - October 2009 29 ❑ High Court protects Aykunnu hills from Excavation by miscreants: From 1996, citizens around Aykunnu Pandavagiri hills have been striving to stop the illegal and dangerous excavation and transport of earth by organized land mafia. In 1996, Thrissur’s RDO issued the first prohibitory order preventing excavation of the hills. Later too similar order was passed by RDO. However, these orders were not effective in preventing the massive quarrying. Paralam Gram Panchayat later passed a resolution, confirming the danger in eroding the hills, and wanting stern action from the district authorities, who alone could enforce their order in the matter. The subject came up repeatedly to the purview of the district authorities. On a few occasions, the Ashram had been successful in stopping the illegal quarrying, though temporarily, by calling up the Collector and the police. Aykunnu Shankaramangalam Devaswam Committee and Narayanashrama Tapovanam filed a petition in Kerala HC in 2007, through senior advocate Sri Govind Bharathan. On Jan 18, a specially set-up ‘Green Bench’ of Kerala High Court, consisting of Chief Justice SB Bannurmath and Justice Thottathil B Radhakarishnan gave an interim but comprehensive order prohibiting earth removal. ● In its judgement, the Honourable Bench observed: 1. “…the District Collector had issued proceedings banning quarrying of laterite and removal of earth from the area in question in 2007. …..If such orders could not be enforced, there is no meaning in passing such orders, which would remain merely on papers. This is never the intention or the dictate of the Constitution and the laws. ….” 2. “…the report filed by the Addl. District Magistrate shows that the Executive including the Police machinery, had not been able to carry out the enforcement of the prohibitory order….” 3. “It is stated that mining is done mostly on holidays and during nights. We hope that the entire District Administration and the entire police are not given weekly offs in one go, to leave the Nation unguarded at weekends, on holidays and during nights…” 4. “This explanation is wholly the wail of a cat over mouse, which it had never decided to catch…” Vicharasetu - October 2009 30 5. “Not a single person is seen to have been arrested, nor any case booked for the violation of the prohibitory orders. No cognizable offence is even reported by the police, and no FIR is registered. …” 6. “Mere holding of meetings, collecting statistics, and ultimately meetings for review and calling for further materials, does not solve the concrete problem ...” ● The Interim Order WP(C) No.22702/2007 (S): 1. For the aforesaid reasons, there will be an interim order directing that no mining activity, be it of laterite or any other material, shall be carried out in any part of Aykunnu area in Thrissur District until further orders. 2. This shall be strictly enforced by the District Collector, Revenue Divisional Officer, Geologist and all other executive officers and subordinate staff of the State Government. 3. The Superintendent of Police, Thrissur District and all police officers under his command are directed to see that this order is scrupulously enforced and anyone seen offending it is brought to book forthwith. It is further ordered that if the District Collector and the District Superintendent of Police feel that the powers under their command are insufficient to handle the situation, immediate report shall be given to the Secretary to the Government of Kerala, Home Department, who will ensure that additional police force, even from the reserved cadre, is made available forthwith to ensure that this order is complied with without any fail. * * * ❑ Release of New book (Malayalam): During the inauguration of áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram on Dec 25, “K¤tyaÆ nirvahiccu K¤À¸an vi¿ramattil (Having fulfilled his task, Krishna resting [in Dv¡raka])”, the 8th book written by Poojya Swamiji on áreemad Bh¡gavatam, was released by Thekkemadom Mooppil Sri Sankarananda Brahmanandabhooti Swamiar. The book, based on the last 11 chapters of 10th skandha, deals with the splendour and exploits of Sri Krishna. The intention of this series of books is to make values and message of áreemad Bh¡gavatam the warp and woof of daily life of our people. * * * Vicharasetu - October 2009 31 ❑ 8th áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram was held from Dec 25, 2009 to Jan 3, 2010 in Paralikkad Naimish¡ra¸yam, in the sacred precincts of Tacchanatthukavu Devi Temple. (Report on page 24) * * * ❑ Geet¡ Tattva Sameeksh¡ (Jan 17-24): The 15th Thrissur Annual Geet¡ Tattva Sameeksh¡, based on 15th Ch. of Bhagavadgeeta, was inaugurated on Jan 17, by Justice (retd.) Sri R Bhaskaran. In his talk on the first day, Poojya Swamiji explained: “Purushottama Yoga is intended to elevate the human mind to its divine level.” In his brief inaugural address, Justice Sri Bhaskaran said that the message of Bhagavadgeet¡ is ever relevant to the society. Sri Therambil Ramakrishnan, MLA & ex-speaker (Kerala Assembly), presided over the function. Sri MK Balakrishnan Nair, (retd. Prof., Thrissur Engg. College) welcomed the gathering, and Prof TK Devanarayan expressed vote of thanks. * * * ❑ Participation in the Hindu Spiritual & Service Fair 2009, Chennai: Centre for Inner Resources Development (CIRD) - Chennai, took part in the Fair at Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, from Dec 24 to 28. Information about Poojya Swamiji, Ashram, CIRD, and Foundation for Restoration of National Values (FRNV), was displayed through posters along with Swamiji’s photo and Ashram’s Logo. Ashram publications were also distributed. A video of Swamiji’s talk was continuously played. Many visited the stall showing interest in Ashram’s publications and activities. The Fair was organized by Global Foundation for Civilizational Harmony, India (GFCH). Its main purpose was to create a unique platform to know, understand, and appreciate the massive service rendered by Hindu Spiritual Organizations. About 130 organizations participated in the Fair. GFCH, in its letter, emphatically reported: “The Central pavilion, where the aggregate details of the service rendered by the different Hindu spiritual and service organisations had been panelled, showed that more than 36 crores of Indians were covered through these just 36 organizations. ...” * * * ❑ Jan. 8: Poojya Swamiji addressed the devotees assembled in Sri Dharma Sastha Temple, Venganallur, Chelakkara (Thrissur Dist.) on the occasion of their De¿a Vilakku Mahotsavam, highlighting the importance of temples and ashrams Vicharasetu - October 2009 32 in upholding San¡tana Dharma. Poojya Swamiji exhorted them to strive to preserve and protect these two institutions. ❑ Jan. 10: Poojya Swamiji, accompanied by M¡, Nutan Swamiji and other devotees, visited the Vivekananda Seva Kendra, Cherussery, to inaugurate their Vivekananda Jayanti celebrations. Under the dedicated leadership of Swami Purushothamananda Saraswati-ji, the Kendra looks after a number of resourceless children, and pursues village welfare services. Poojya Swamiji, in his talk, inspired the children as well as the assembled villagers to have confidence in themselves, and take pride in the country’s great cultural and spiritual heritage. It is the prime duty of householders, Swamiji emphasized, to take interest in Ashrams, help them in their efforts and be benefited thereby. ■ Vicharasetu - October 2009 33 8th áreemad Bh¡gavata Tattva Sameeksh¡ Satram (Dec 25, 2009 – Jan 03, 2010) áreemad Bh¡gavata Grantha Ratha Y¡tr¡ from Narayanashrama Tapovanam (Dec 24). Vicharasetu - October 2009 34 Poojya Swamiji visited a number of Temples, awakening people about the importance of the Satram. Many devotees offered materials (dravya-samarpa¸am) as their contribution to the Satram. Vicharasetu - October 2009 35 Poojya Swamiji conducted n¡ma-sa´keertanam every evening Vicharasetu - October 2009 36 Every day nearly three thousand devotees attended the discourses. Vicharasetu - October 2009 37 15th Geet¡ Tattva Sameeksh¡ 15th Geet¡ Tattva Sameeksh¡ at Sreemoolasth¡nam, in front of Vadakkunnathan Temple (Jan 17-24). Vicharasetu - October 2009