September-October 2013 Annual Subscription ` 80/- 1 -PRATISHTHAS OF NEW BAPS MANDIRS 10 July 2013, Sarangpur

With the guidance and blessings of Pramukh Maharaj, BAPS Sanstha continues to build mandirs worldwide to help nurture Hindu traditions and . In Sarangpur, on 10 July 2013, Swamishri performed the Vedic murti- pratishtha and arti for the of the new BAPS shikharbaddh mandir nearing completion in Himmatnagar. Thousands of devotees from Himmatnagar and its surrounding towns and villages were present to witness this auspicious occasion. Also, on this special occasion, Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha rituals for 12 BAPS mandirs.

22 Contents September-October 2013 Vol. 36 No. 5 3 First Word 5 Tilak-Chandlo 8 BAPS National Convention 2013, Overview and Preparations SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARPITH 10 Kishore-Kishori Convention Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj 14 Bal-Balika Convention

In April 1978 inspired and 18 Yuvak-Yuvati Convention inaugurated the first issue of Swaminarayan Bliss 22 Perspectives, An Introduction in Ahmedabad, . The bi-monthly magazine serves to enlighten BAPS youths, seniors and well- 24 We Must See the Change We Wish to Be wishers about the glory of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the Akshar-Purushottam philosophy and the Gunatit 26 Divyabhav, Divine Perspective guru parampara. It also seeks to inspire the universal 30 Tukaram values and traditions of to pursue a happy and peaceful life by serving and humankind. 35 Nirupan 39 News Is to the Mind What Sugar Founder: HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj Is to the Body Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas Contributors: Sadhu Vivekjivandas, Sadhu Amrutvijaydas 40 FAQs On Hinduism Designer: Sadhu Shrijiswarupdas Published & Printed by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith, 42 ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ Shahibaug, Ahmedabad - 380004.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES 45 Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Vicharan Outside India (By Air Mail) India 46 Living with Swamishri Rupees Pounds US Dollars Rupees 1 Year 630 9 14 80 47 BAPS Uttarakhand Flood Relief, India 2 Years 1300 18 28 150 3 Years 1900 27 42 220 50 BAPS Global News

3 ive wisely. Most people live a superficial life: a life focused only on pleasure, position and money. To liveFirst a more meaningful Wordand productive life it is necessary to live a con- Lsciously, thoughtful life. By observing your life you will realize there are external and internal actions. Internal actions include your beliefs, thoughts and feelings. They mostly reflect upon your conversations, outward deeds and quality of life. Say you smile at your friend, but internally you may be jealous of or angry at him. This means that, externally, you appear nice and happy, but inwardly, because of your aversion, you are not at peace and relaxed. Mostly, people are not aware of what’s going on in their inner self, but are overly concerned about their external self. This disparity between the inner and external selves is the cause of personal discontent and stress. In the Mahabharat, Dhritrashtra, the blind father of the Kauravas and king of Hastinapur, pretended to be a wellwisher of the five Pandavas. In reality, all along, he had sanctioned his son’s, Duryodhan’s, evil designs and acts in harming or eliminating the Pandavas. Dhritrashtra’s double standards became his own bane in his last years, when he suffered horrible nightmares and inner turmoil. Allaiya Khachar was a dedicated disciple of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was a celibate and he endeavoured immensely for the spread of Satsang. In fact he had inspired satsang in the lives of 2,000 people. Despite his commitment and allegiance to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, his ego got the better of him. His outward appearance and actions reflected a positive picture in Sat- sang, but his inner self burned with the desire for appreciation and recognition above his peer devotees. Once, Maharaj visited Jhinjhavadar, where Allaiya lived and ruled. He feigned joy at Maharaj’s arrival. Mulji Brahmachari, the attendant of Maharaj, perceived Allaiya’s pretension of joy and chided him, “Maharaj lavishes praise and respect on you by addressing you as Sap- tarshi and yet you disregard Maharaj’s greatness.” Allaiya Khachar shot back, “Maharaj does not value me because he doesn’t know my greatness. He ranks me third, after and Sura Khachar. I am a celibate, whereas they are householders.” On hearing these words of Allaiya Khachar, Maharaj replied, “Allaiya, even Sura Khachar cannot be rated with you with respect to your services and . You are a celibate. Furthermore, you have travelled in the Valak region and inspired satsang in so many people. You also travel a lot with Swarupanand Swami. Therefore, there is no one comparable to you!” Allaiya Khachar felt pacified at Maha- raj’s words of praise. He folded his hands out of formality and said, “Maharaj, I was not aware that you hold me in such high esteem.” Mulji Brahmachari could not restrain himself from thinking that Allaiya’s days in Satsang were on the decline. Later, Allaiya Khachar left Satsang because of his ego. Aligning one’s good inner self through conscious, thoughtful living with one’s outer actions amounts to living wisely. The more one bridges the gap between one’s thoughts and words and actions the better the quality of life one experiences. To attain this, doing satsang and having the tutelage of a genuine guru are very important and necessary. u

4 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 SWAMINARAYAN HISTORY: Translation by Sadhu Vivekjivandas

Tilak-Chandlo

Shri Hari was in Panchala at the home of Jhinabhai Darbar. He celebrated the Fuldol festival and introduced the tradition of doing tilak-chandlo in the Swaminarayan ...

FULDOL FESTIVAL IN PANCHALA the regions of Madhya Pradesh and (1821 ce (A.S. 1877)) had arrived. Everyone wished to perform pujan Jhinabhai Darbar ordered a cartload of gu- of Maharaj. The rush towards Maharaj resulted lal (vermillion powder) from Mangrol to cel- in chaos. To control the situation, Maharaj an- ebrate the Fuldol festival. Flowers of kesuda nounced from his high seat, “Everyone will get were plucked in abundance to give the water a chance. Let those who are from far-off regions an orange hue. and Ad- come forward first.” Shri Hari then pointed to haranand Swami left to acquire bamboos for someone and signalled him to come to him. making squirters. On the day of Fuldol every- Maharaj’s gesture made everyone look behind. thing was ready. Shri Hari had decided to fully They saw Kashiram Jamadar of Dhuvabarai satisfy the devotion and wishes of Jhinabhai. He coming forward, holding a large trunk. When he had declared to Jhinabhai, “I will stay here for came near, Maharaj asked, “Kashiram, you wish a month. I wish to call all the sadhus and hold a to do pujan!” Kashiram was startled. He knew spiritual camp (shibir). The strong foundations that God was all-knowing, but he had called him of personal satsang lie in having spiritual knowl- from a throng of leading devotees who were ea- edge and a firm in God’s form. To achieve ger to perform his pujan. He folded his hands them one should be resolute in listening to spir- and uttered humbly, “Yes, Maharaj. I do. But itual discourses.” how could I come through this large group of prominent devotees? And if I were left out to- KASHIRAM PERFORMS PUJAN OF MAHARAJ day, the situation would have been the same to- Devotees from far and near began arriving in morrow. Furthermore, I am in a hurry to return Panchala for the Fuldol festival. Devotees from home. So, I was perplexed about what to do.”

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 5 Shri Hari smiled and assured, “Kashiram, I bhai burst with joy, “Oh, how wonderful my do not leave anyone in a quandary. Come, you brother Ghanshyam looks!” Immediately there- do the first pujan.” And Kashiram performed after he saw the form of Bhagwan Ram in Maha- pujan of Shri Hari by applying a chandlo and raj. This amazed Rampratapbhai, and he began rice grains. Then he opened his trunk amidst the prostrating to him. Suddenly, the assembly was avid eyes of all. Maharaj smiled and enquired, pervaded by the mellifluous singing of Brah- “Kashiram, what do you have in the trunk?” manand Swami, “Lidhi Latkãle Nandlãl ke hãth Kashiram replied hesitatingly, “My Lord, I kabãn ne, … Nirkhi Brahmãnand ke janam su- have brought typical clothes and finery of my fal mãro kidhelo.” – “My Lord takes a bow in region.” Instantly, Shri Hari stood up. Everyone hand, … On seeing this Brahmanand’s life has was absorbed in the divine murti of Shriji Maha- become worthwhile.” The devotees in the as- raj and the devotion of Kashiram. He took out a sembly chorused the leading verse, “Lidhi Lat- valuable dress prepared specially for Shri Hari. kãle…” Joy spread through the entire congrega- Maharaj put it on. Then Kashiram tied a dagger tion. Everyone relished the darshan of Maharaj on Maharaj’s waist, gave him a bow and placed without batting their eyelids. The devotees as- a quiver full of arrows around his shoulder. This pired that time freeze for eternity. Shri Hari read novel darshan of Maharaj was eagerly lapped up their inner thoughts and replied, ‘Yes, time will by the congregation. stop. Shri had prolonged the night (of Kashiram kept on taking out one item after ras) with the gopis for six months. I will bless another from his trunk. He placed a red pagh on you with six months of happiness in one night. Maharaj’s head, pinned a kalgi made of gems on Whosoever remembers this incident will attain it and gave a bouquet of flowers in both hands. Akshardham.” Shri Hari accepted Kashiram’s devotion silently The divine incident had afforded all with a and with a beaming face. When the pujan transcendental experience. Shriji Maharaj gave was over Maharaj asked, “Kashiram, is there the bow and arrows to Rampratapbhai and the anything left to offer?” jewel-studded dagger to Jhinabhai’s brother, Ga- Kashiram merely folded his hands. Maharaj gabhai. perceived from his face that he had one more wish, and so he asked, “Do you have any oth- SHRI HARI INSTRUCTS HIS SADHUS TO DO er wish?” TILAK-CHANDLO Kashiram replied, “Your blessings, and Maharaj celebrated the rangotsav in Panchala secondly Maharaj, take this bow in hand and with intense fervour. He squirted the sadhus string it with an arrow. I wish to have darshan and devotees with coloured water and he also of your divine form in this manner. I had nour- became drenched in colours sprayed by them. ished such a wish the moment the dress, bow Thereafter, every morning and evening he dis- and arrows were ready for you. You have ful- coursed to the assembly. filled all my wishes so far. I ask you to fulfil this One day, Shri Hari thought the opposition one too.” of vairagis and those averse to his sadhus and Shri Hari took the bow in his hand and drew the Sampradaya was subsiding. On the other one arrow from the quiver. Then he kneeled on hand, Satsang was spreading rapidly, and more one knee and strung the arrow on his bow. Shri and more people were subscribing to a life of Hari did not release the arrow. The divine dar- . He felt it was time he introduced the shan enthused the entire assembly. Rampratap­ outward signs of a Vaishnav ritual among his

6 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 sadhus. He called Jhinabhai and said, “The mud his own greatness and also that of Gunatitanand by the pond on the village outskirts is like chan- Swami. Maharaj further declared, “When hun- dan (sandalwood paste). Make arrangements to dreds of thousands of people follow this sadhu, bring a little here. Once the mud was brought to know that Satsang has developed.” him, Maharaj had it shaped like betel nuts. He At that time was a se- gave one each to his sadhus and said, “From to- vak (one who serves) in the group of Muktan- morrow onwards apply tilak-chandlo as a sym- and Swami. In spite of this Maharaj revealed bol of our Vaishnav tradition.” his true glory. For many it was difficult to grasp The next day when the sadhus came to Ma- Gunatitanand Swami’s greatness because of his haraj they did not have the tilak-chandlo on simple and humble behaviour. their foreheads. Maharaj enquired, “Why have The next day Maharaj told Nityanand Swa- you not done the tilak?” The sadhus were baf- mi to read the first chapter of the Shrimad fled and asked, “With what were we supposed Bhagvat and explain the shlokas. Shri Hari also to do the tilak?” Maharaj was surprised by their elaborated on the first shloka, “Janmãddasya question. “Yesterday, I had given to you the betel yataha…” “The qualities of maya and all its ev- nut-sized gotis. You were supposed to rub some olutes cannot be attributed to God or his form. of it into a paste and apply it as tilak.” When one associates with his sadhu one attains The sadhus revealed with surprise, “Maha- the highest knowledge of God’s form and tran- raj, we ate the gotis taking it to be prasad from scends maya.” you.” Shri Hari felt his sadhus were very naïve. Jhinabhai Darbar was overjoyed on hearing He said, “I will give you all a goti each for the about the divinity of Maharaj’s form. He realized second time. Tomorrow I’d like to see a proper that whatever Maharaj did was divine; whether tilak and chandlo on your forehead, chest and he smiled or chided – all his actions were divine. arms. They will be our Vaishnavi mark.” Thus For those who were of ordinary spiritual rank Maharaj gave another round of gotis to all such actions would definitely test their faith. his sadhus. The next day, Muni Bawa complained to The following day when the sadhus arrived in Shri Hari, “Maharaj, Haryanand Swami and the morning assembly Shri Hari observed their Vishvaschaitanyanand Swami have become sad- foreheads. He smiled at them and commented, gurus by themselves, and are asking for various “Why have you applied large and bizarre tilaks material things from devotees and exploiting that would frighten even buffaloes? Learn to do them.” Maharaj immediately called them. When them properly.” The sadhus failed to understand he asked the two sadhus whether what he had Maharaj’s words. heard was true, they remained quiet. Shri Hari reproached them, “My sadhus should not ask TILAK AND CHANDLO anything from devotees, even for selfless pur- Shri Hari made all the sadhus sit in a row. poses. And whosoever does so will have blas- Then he called Gunatitanand Swami to him and phemed against the guru and his words.” u applied the tilak and chandlo on his forehead. (Contd. in next issue) Translated from Gujarati text of Maharaj told him to walk with him along the Bhagwan Swaminarayan by Shri H.T. Dave row of sadhus, showing him to the sadhus and saying, “Look, this is my tilak!” Then he added, “There is no Bhagwan like me and no other sad- hu like him.” In this way Maharaj proclaimed

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 7 BAPS National Convention 2013 Overview and Preparations 4-14 July 2013, Atlanta

INTRODUCTION discussions, skits, interactive sessions and a vari- From 4 to 14 July, North American Nation- ety of other activities. al Convention 2013 was held at the BAPS Shri This was an opportunity for all to learn, Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta, Georgia. The understand and imbibe the concept of Ekantik Bal/Balika, Kishore/Kishori, and Yuvak/Yuvati Dharma: dharma (path of righteousness), jnan conventions were held three days for each. Over (knowledge of atma), vairagya (detachment 8,000 children, teenagers and youths attended from worldly objects) and (devotion). and 750 volunteers contributed their time and energy to ensure the smooth running of the con- EXHIBITION ventions. An exhibition highlighted the key concepts The three conventions were held as follows: and history that were incorporated in the conven- kishore-kishori from 4 to 7 July, balak-balika tions. Displays depicted what Ekantik Dharma is from 7 to 10 and yuvak-yuvati from 11 to 14 and how each of its four pillars is essential. Some July. Each convention was based on the central panels portrayed the life and work of Bhagwan theme – ‘Be Ekantik’ – and the content of each Swaminarayan and the guru parampara, showing was designed to appeal to the specific audiences. how their lives exemplified Ekantik Dharma. The messages were conveyed through audio- Video clips of Swamishri narrating his per- visual presentations, speeches by senior sadhus, sonal prasangs gave the attendees an insight

8 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Delegates arrive for the convention

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Atlanta: venue for NC13 Participants rejoice during the convention into Swamishri’s perspective. A collection of Once the central theme for the shibir was fi- items sanctified by Swamishri, from a basketball nalized, the scripting and production of audio- to shoes, helped remember prasangs that the visual presentations, skits, traditional dances and youths had heard in the past. Tablets were set up other programmes began. Each North American which showed a map of the world with prasangs region was allotted specific responsibilities. popping up as attendees clicked on certain cities. For final preparations, key participants ar- The exhibition concluded with the relief ac- rived in Atlanta on 19 June for the “Samp Camp” tivities inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It – an intensive two-week period of preparation also described what a mandir is and why man- that was accomplished through teamwork. Samp dirs are essential for our spiritual elevation. Camp included daily rehearsals and detailed co- To truly be ekantik, one would have to imbibe of the convention schedules. Swamishri’s ideology, “In the joy of others lies Throughout the camp, sadhus explained the our own.” vision behind the conventions, inspiring the par- ticipants to stay focused, and emphasized that PREPARATIONS the real purpose of the conventions was to please Planning and preparation for the convention Swamishri. Before practices and seva youths spanned over three years, resulting in over 3,000 would chant the dhun to pray for strength. video conferences held via Google Hangout, In addition to the programme preparations, detailed scripts totalling up to 791 pages and many youths from Atlanta and nearby centres, over 40 pages of written classroom content. To such as, Charlotte, Perry, Birmingham, Tampa, supplement all of the material and ensure the and Albany helped with arrangements for the conventions ran according to plan, 27 in-person accommodation, catering, transport, decora- meetings were held across the continent. tion, housekeeping and other arrangements. u

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 9 Kishore-Kishori Convention 4-7 July 2013, Atlanta

he Kishore-Kishori Convention was tomized in various musical styles, ranging from attended by 1,910 kishores and 1,410 capella to rock, and even hip-hop/spoken word. Tkishoris aged between 14 and 21, The first evening session began at 8.00 p.m. from North America, Australia, Hong Kong, with a play about three youths and a father and New Zealand. which would continue through the three days of the convention and come to a resolution on 4 July 2013 the final day. The three youths were shown fac- In the afternoon, following registration, del- ing the challenges youths encounter today. As egates were given a tour of the mandir to famil- the play progressed, the problems became bigger iarize them with the mandir campus. and the characters came to a point where they After the tour, the kishores and kishoris at- did not know what to do on their own. The play tended their respective soundstage programmes. engrossed the kishores and kishoris as it mirrored The soundstage programmes gave the kishores their own feelings in such situations and also and kishoris a new outlook on bhajan-bhakti, in presented solutions. The session concluded with which youngsters from each region presented a the play on a cliffhanger, leaving the kishores and bhajan of their choice they had creatively cus- kishoris thinking about the possible outcomes.

10 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Pujya Mahant Swami

Over 3,300 kishores and kishoris attended the convention Youths present a traditional dance

5 July 2013 singing, can be forms of bhakti. They also learnt In the morning session, the play continued that the same bliss experienced in Maharaj’s as the characters attempted to solve their prob- time can still be experienced today through the lems. ekantik guru parampara. The session then transitioned into a colourful This was followed by a classroom session ti- welcome celebration. The screens displayed the tled ‘Making It Real’, conducted by Snehmuni streets of Chhapaiya and as kishores danced on Swami. He helped the participants understand stage to welcome Maharaj and Swami into the how the ekantik state is applicable to differ- assembly, everyone excitedly joined in with loud ent aspects of their lives even as teenagers. He applause and cheers. emphasized the point that having confidence in After the dance, kishores sang kirtans describ- Satsang and knowing that mandir is righteous is ing Maharaj’s life from when he was Ghanshy- very crucial to becoming ekantik. He mentioned am to when he became known as Sahajanand that this mindset will enable them to be more Swami. The kirtans contained the message of comfortable practising satsang, that it is never Ekantik Dharma. too late to start trying to become ekantik and Following the kirtans, the bhakti element of that becoming ekantik is a continuous process of Ekantik Dharma was highlighted through sto- learning, understanding and applying. ries depicting the joy experienced by the param- In the discussion groups that followed, the hansas and devotees of Maharaj’s time through youths talked about how they could use the pil- their offering of bhakti. It helped delegates un- lars of Ekantik Dharma to face their day-to-day derstand that their talents and passions, such as problems. They concluded that imbibing Ekan-

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 11 A scene from the theme drama ‘Making It Real’ classroom session tik Dharma in their daily lives would eventually In the evening programme, the story of the aid them in solving their problems on a larger characters progressed and their lives began to take scale. After the discussions, the attendees re- a turn for the better. The storyline began to focus turned to the main convention hall for the sec- on the family’s history and how satsang shaped ond and third classroom sessions. who they are today. This introduced a detailed The first of these, titled ‘Dharma 2.0’, intro- review of Swamishri’s vicharan in North America duced delegates to the idea that the right perspec- and how Swamishri has been caring for youths in tive on dharma is needed to progress in Satsang. America since the 1970’s. They saw Swamishri The next session, ‘Never Walk Alone’, focused as an incomparable, compassionate leader, who on the idea that the Satpurush walks alongside is a constant source of moral support and is al- youths everyday. This session was closely tied ways there to help with any problems. The even- to bhakti and helped both kishores and kisho- ing concluded with the characters coming to the ris find ways to connect to the Satpurush. They revelation that Swamishri’s blessings are vital to learnt from Pujya Mahant Swami and Pujya being successful and content in life. Anandswarup Swami that even in the harshest of times, no matter how serious the situation may 6 July 2013 be, they will never be alone because of the bond In the morning, the plot of the play pro- they have maintained with Swamishri. gressed, as the three youths were transported to Chansad to witness Swamishri’s childhood, his first meeting with , his diksha, and his appointment as Kothari of Sarangpur Mandir and Pramukh of BAPS. The kishores per- formed a dance and listened to Swamishri’s Pra- bodhini Ekadashi discourse. The drama showed how great devotees such as Haka Bapu and Har- jivan Swami had offered their bhakti. In the classroom session titled ‘Through My Eyes’, Pujya Mahant Swami spoke on the impor- tance of taking a different perspective on pra- sangs. Group discussion activity

12 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Youths visit the exhibition Pujya Mahant Swami and sadhus

In the following group discussion the kishores and yet Dada Khachar continued to trust Ma- and kishoris performed an activity in which a haraj. few participants tasted a very sour lemon. After The evening programme was to take place eating the lemon they were then given a sweet outdoors in front of the mandir. Over 3,000 ‘miracle fruit’, which negated the lemon’s sour attendees were seated and excited for the pro- taste. The participants were then asked to taste gramme to begin. Symbolizing their yearning to the lemon again to realize the radical shift be- become ekantik, each delegate lit and placed a tween the two tastes: sour and sweet. Through traditional divo by the reflection pond. Then, as this sensory interaction, delegates realized the the programme was about to start, there was a difference between satsang during Shastriji Ma- heavy downpour of rain. Everyone rushed in- haraj’s time and now. Kishores were able to re- doors as fast as possible and earnestly chanted late to Pujya Mahant Swami’s message regarding the dhun, which could be heard throughout the the hardships Swamishri faced. entire Family Activities Centre. After 30 minutes The discussion then focused on what can be the rain subsided and the programme continued learnt from Swamishri’s exemplary bhakti. outside. In the classroom session, ‘Sanshai Atma Vi- With all 3,000 youths back in their seats, eve- nashyati’, kishores learned that becoming ekan- ryone participated in the maha arti led by Pujya tik can be accomplished by following the agna Mahant Swami. After the arti the audience was of the Satpurush and understanding oneself to blessed by Pujya Mahant Swami. be atma. The ‘True Love’ classroom session Following his speech the attendees were showed what true love for the Satpurush is and treated to a spectacular light show as the lights how to keep dradh priti, intense love, for him as on the mandir flashed colours to the beat of the explained in Vachanamrut Kariyani 11. music. As the music stopped the mandir lights To end this classroom, kishores talked about turned off and it was completely dark. Then sec- faith versus logic and how to find the equilibri- onds later, fireworks shot into the air above the um between the two. Kishores then performed mandir and the sky was filled with sparks of col- a trust activity in which one kishore falls and ours and streaks of light. The mandir complex trusts that another will catch him. As many of was filled with joyous cheering of the youths as them lost trust in a few rounds, they found out the Kishore-Kishori Convention concluded. u that Maharaj let Dada Khachar fall 17 times

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 13 Bal-Balika Convention 7-10 July 2013, Atlanta

rom 7 to 10 July, over 3,000 balaks a mandir tour, which provided them with an and balikas from Canada, USA, Aus- introduction to the main theme of the con- Ftralia and New Zealand attended vention and acquainted them with the man- North American Convention 2013. dir campus. After the mandir tour, delegates enjoyed the The convention featured four classroom ses- NC13 Showcase, which was an outdoor celebra- sions, theatrical performances and group activi- tion featuring games, snacks, photo booths and ties to help the children understand the four pil- live sound stage performances by delegates from lars of Ekantik Dharma: dharma, jnan, vairagya across the country. and bhakti. Each classroom session consisted of The first evening session introduced the sto- a combined session and a group activity. The the- ryline that would guide the young delegates atrical performances followed a storyline, which through the next few days. Through the charac- unfolded in the morning and evening sessions. ters of Akshar, , Kirtan and Chirag the balaks and balikas were able to connect to the message 7 July 2013 since the problems the stage characters faced re- After registration, delegates were taken on sembled today’s real-life problems. The delegates

14 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Children enjoy the presentations

Over 3,000 balaks and balikas attended the convention Balaks perform on the sound stage

watched as the main character, Akshar, struggled The delegates then participated in a group with his niyam-dharma and left with the realiza- activity which showed videos of people in dif- tion that to become ekantik, “I have to first know ferent everyday life situations and discussed and follow the basic agnas that Swamishri has how a child following dharma would deal with asked me to follow.” those situations. Thereafter, half of the delegates proceeded 8 July 2013 to a question and answer session with Pujya Ma- The first session continued the story from hant Swami and senior sadhus. They answered the previous night. Akshar was preparing for personal questions of the balaks and balikas, school and felt restricted by some niyams that and helped them lay out a path towards becom- were affecting his appearance and his popular- ing ekantik. The other half of the delegates had ity. Through Akshar’s struggles and the guidance this session on Day 3 of the convention. of his younger brother, Yogi, delegates under- After lunch the delegates attended the second stood that to become ekantik, “I have to have classroom session on ‘Jnan’. Through the group self-confidence, even when I feel people will not session the children learnt that to progress along accept me for who I am.” the path of becoming ekantik and please Swam- The delegates then proceeded to their first ishri they had to attend the weekly sabha and do classroom session on ‘Dharma’. In the Dharma daily Satsang reading. group discussion the children came to an under- In the group activity that followed the chil- standing that in order to please Swamishri they dren were split into teams to participate in had to be honest and respect their parents. an entertaining quiz on their general Satsang

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 15 Balaks and sanchalaks arrive at the airport Children perform the theme drama knowledge based on the booklet 200 Things to tion pond in front of the mandir. Through this Know and Remember. presentation, the children learnt that they were In the evening session, the storyline took the all trying to cross the ocean of maya and needed delegates into the past. Akshar travelled to the to board the boat with Bhagwan Swaminarayan mall with Yogi and Kirtan. Through their jour- and Swamishri to take them out of maya to Ak- ney in the mall, Akshar relived the childhood of shardham. Pramukh Swami Maharaj and on how Swam- Delegates then proceeded to the third class- ishri faced and successfully overcame challenges room on ‘Vairagya’, which showed the benefits similar to those balaks and balikas face today. of living a simple life, and how overcomplicat- Delegates came away knowing “I have to follow ing our lives leads us to becoming lost in the the example Swamishri has set and live my life ocean of maya. according to the principles he has laid out”. Delegates then participated in a memorable group activity. A giant version of the “LIFE” 9 July 2013 board game was set up and selected delegates The final day morning programme was held played through the game encountering various outdoors, and reflected on the past two days situations that revealed the need for vairagya spent with Akshar. Many of the problems that and a simpler life. had come up over the past two days were re- Following lunch, the final classroom on visited through a show on a boat in the reflec- ‘Bhakti’, was held, in which the children were

Evening arti

16 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Group discussion Children discuss the convention’s key messages taught the importance of bhakti in everyday delegates came up on stage and shared inspiring life. They learnt about the nine different forms stories of other balaks and balikas from around of bhakti and that, at present, as students their the world. The stories were inspiring and guided main bhakti to God and guru is to study hard the attendees to realize that becoming ekantik is and do well in school. a lifelong journey that has to continue once they In the final group activity each delegate took return home from the convention. The session coloured sand and filled up a jar to represent concluded with samuh arti and a rousing collec- the proportion of the nine types of bhakti in tive around the reflection pond in front their lives. of the mandir. The final evening programme brought an end to Akshar’s story. Akshar goes for a basket- 10 July 2013 ball game, and in the process of enjoying himself The delegates left the convention with a new breaks his niyams. Later that night Akshar real- understanding of what being ekantik means. izes that everything he has done has displeased Through their three-day journey the delegates Swamishri and caused him pain. With Akshar’s experienced the mandir’s divinity, learned the realization, the delegates also realize that “I meaning of ekantik and the need to focus on have to constantly ask myself, will what I do pleasing Swamishri by constantly asking the please Bapa?”. question “Swami raji thashe?”. u After dinner, in the concluding session the

A scene from the theme drama Children participate during a classroom session

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 17 Yuvak-Yuvati Convention 11-14 July 2013, Atlanta

rom 11 to 14 July 2013, 1,907 youths tice and reciprocate the love of the Satpurush aged between 22 and 35 from all over who has gifted them this ultimate opportunity. FNorth America and the Pacific region attended the Yuvak-Yuvati Convention in Atlanta. 11 July After registration, delegates were able to The theme of the convention was “Ekantik: take part in multiple activities which included Learn, Live, Love”. The establishment of Ekan- mandir darshan, abhishek of Nilkanth Varni tik Dharma was one of Bhagwan Swaminaray- Maharaj, viewing the NC13 and mandir exhibi- an’s main goals. tions, taking part in the mandir tour, viewing the Yuvaks and yuvatis have learned that earning prasadi cars from Bapa’s past vicharan in North the Satpurush’s rajipo is the goal of our life. As America as well as reconnecting with old friends they graduate to a stage in Satsang where they from other regions. Photo booths throughout bear greater personal responsibility for their the mandir campus allowed delegates to take spiritual growth, they realize that the true meas- photos of themselves and their fellow yuvaks to ure of rajipo is gauged by how well they have help treasure the memories of the convention. adopted ekantik principles. Thus, they seek to After dinner, the first session began with a understand these principles, put them into prac- live skit reflecting on past shibirs and introduc-

18 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Pujya Mahant Swami addresses the youths

Around 1,900 yuvaks and yuvatis attended the convention Youths respond joyously to the live darshan of Swamishri ing the theme for this convention. Maharaj and Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj. Nilkanthseva Swami spoke on the topic Concluding the session, Pujya Mahant Swa- ‘Making Satsang Our Own’, describing how mi spoke in detail on being ekantik. Through his this was the greatest seva that one can perform personal experiences, he stressed that we cannot for Swamishri. This means that one has to learn learn Ekantik Dharma only from and what it takes to become ekantik. The day con- that we need an Ekantik Satpurush to make us cluded with a mesmerizing fireworks show. ekantik. He emphasized that everything Shriji Maharaj and the guru parampara have done is 12 July to firmly establish Ekantik Dharma. In the first morning session Amrutnandan In the third session, Purnajivan Swami high- Swami elaborated on the theme of ‘Ekantik’, lighted that just as we upgrade our phones to newer using various props to emphasize the need to models because they are better, we also need to “Learn. Live. Love.” He described that in satsang, “upgrade to Bhagwannu sukh because jagatnu sukh we learn what true love and unconditional love is nothing in comparison to Bhagwannu sukh”. is from Bapa and that the solutions to struggles Pujya Anandswarup concluded the session experienced in lay in ekantik dharma. by revealing that all the sukh of the universe In the next session Tyagvatsal Swami took the and even the sukh of all the universes combined delegates back in time on a journey of Ekantik pales in comparison to Bhagwannu sukh. Dharma by highlighting various prasangs and After lunch, the youths had video darshan of works of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Akshar- Swamishri registering for this convention. This Gunatitanand Swami. strengthened the divine feeling that both Swam- Amrutcharit Swami continued on this topic, ishri and Shri Harikrishna Maharaj were present detailing the work of Brahmaswarup Bhagatji in the convention.

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 19 ‘Learn. Live. Love’ classroom session Sadhus narrate prasangs of Swamishri Then, Chaitanyamurti Swami spoke, convey- koi tãru nathi...” This was followed by three ing the message, “Simply be brahmarup, akshar- lively TED-style talks about making bhakti a rup and ekantik by having atmabuddhi in the major characteristic of one’s home. The talks Satpurush.” focused on the three main topics: improving Next, Brahmadarshan Swami talked about one’s daily puja, developing and sustaining one’s how everything happens due to God’s will, but ghar mandir and conducting ghar sabha. warned against using this to justify our own lack Thereafter, the atmosphere changed and the of effort. delegates felt they were present in a classroom in Thereafter, a skit was performed, discussing Sarangpur where Pujya Mahant Swami started tradeoffs between satsang, career and family, and off the class reading the Vachanamrut to a group how hard it is to become ekantik. Pujya Mahant of sadhus seated before him. They asked him Swami guided the youths on how to balance four questions based on the Vachanamrut. the three, be content in marriage and maintain The first question: What understanding a pure mind. He also mentioned, “Bapa malya should one keep when blessings do not come to etle ekantik thaishu.” fruition. Pujya Mahant Swami guided that one After dinner, the evening session began with needs to realize that satsang is a pathway to at- arti, then a skit showing the hardships youths taining , not a pharmacy, a bank, or any face in satsang when major changes occur in type of convenience store that provides worldly one’s life. Pujya Anandswarup Swami gave guid- substances and that the hardships we receive are ance on how to overcome such hardships. There a blessing in disguise. are times when need to make compro- Second question: How can one avoid abhav- mises in certain things, but they should remain avgun. Pujya Mahant Swami clearly stated that firm in their satsang values, as compromising even a person who has attained extreme grace on this would be compromising on the supreme from Bhagwan would not attain Akshardham if bliss of Maharaj. In essence, he said that peo- he takes abhav-avgun. He also specified that one ple should not live two different lives: the life at should not take abhav-avgun even of someone work and the life in satsang. who doesn’t follow niyams. The session concluded with a ‘No Abhav-Av- 13 July gun’ protest parade through the sabha hall which The final day started with a video of Swam- motivated the youths to stop abhav-avgun. ishri singing the bhajan, “Hari vinã hitkãri biju In the next session, Priyaseva Swami and

20 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Pujya Mahant Swami meets the youths Youths explore the exhibition Vivekmurti Swami spoke about the mahima of After a delayed lunch, Anupam Swami led a attaining satsang and the opportunity to be- session on how to do bhakti correctly. The del- come ekantik. egates heard four inspirational prasangs from Concluding the session, Pujya Anandswarup devotees who have suffered severe hardships yet Swami stressed the need to develop the mind- still remain firm in practising satsang. Through set of a warrior preparing for battle. We should their prasangs the delegates realized that the el- fight temptations and false beliefs, and inclina- evated ekantik state is something that they can tions to settle at being average. And with the strive for by keeping focus on it. inspiration of Bapa, we must have courage and Brahmadarshan Swami followed with a speech embark on the path of being ekantik. about faith. There are so many things in this world Then, for over 30 minutes, the youths had that we accept without question, or without log- the great pleasure of watching a live broadcast ic; similarly the road to becoming ekantik is not of guruhari Pramukh Swami Maharaj as he in- logical. He mentioned how extremely lucky we teracted with the sadhus and devotees in Sarang- were to have found the gunatit guru, and now all pur. In the NC13 sabha hall the youths joyously that was needed was to have faith and trust. danced and waved the BAPS flag as the sound of Thereafter, Jnanpriya Swami, Jnanpurush bhajans such as “Mãrã Swamini thãye vãh vãh Swami, Viveknidhi Swami, Yagnavallabh Swami vãh...” filled the atmosphere. Swamishri then and Anandswarup Swami shared different pra- graced all the delegates by giving live interac- sangs on how Swamishri has expressed his love tion over the video feed by waving his hands, and compassion in various ways. The delegates throwing a football towards the youths, making learnt that just as the sun rises for everyone, sim- a gesture with his hands over his eyes as if they ilarly Bapa showers his love on everyone. were binoculars (giving a hint that he could see Following dinner, in the final session of the everyone in the sabha hall). When Bapa saw the convention Pujya Mahant Swami vividly narrated live feed and the resolve of the youths to follow the key moment that had changed his life and en- niyams to become ekantik, he said: “Vah vah abled him to adopt the path of becoming a sadhu. chhe ... apna yuvako ni pan vah vah chhe.” The This led to the final prayer and pledge of youths were so charged by this event, that they the convention. Finally, the youths watched carried on singing, clapping and dancing for a series of entrancing videos and an explosive another 20 minutes despite knowing that Bapa bang video on the seven screens to conclude the could no longer see them through the live feed. convention. u

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 21 LIFE: Nikul Patel, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA PERSPECTI ES AN INTRODUCTION

s the glass your attitude. Empirical research has shown the half full or power of a positive attitude. Martin Seligman, a “Ihalf emp- psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, ty?” Before you continue performed a study in which he examined how reading, STOP! Take a min- insurance salespersons explained their inability ute, think about it, and answer. Write your an- to make a sale. Those who were pessimistic and swer here: ______. felt dejected were twice as likely to quit in their Many of you probably did not need a min- first year compared to optimists. The optimists, ute; you answered spontaneously because, ei- those who explained their failures in positive ther you have been asked this question before, terms, sold 37 percent more insurance in their or just found this question to be simple. Either first two years on the job than did those with way, there is no right or wrong answer to this the pessimistic view.1 Those who have a positive question. If there is no right or wrong answer, perspective and attitude are better prepared to then why ask the question? succeed in life. Well, because the answer does matter, and In the history of BAPS, there are countless depending on who you are talking to, it could individuals whose positive perspective and atti- matter a great deal. For example, if a doctor tude are inspirational; prominent among them is asking, your answer can tell him if you are is . Yogiji Maharaj simply radi- likely to suffer from depression, your chances ated positivity. of successfully recovering from major surgery, Once, Yogiji Maharaj, Mota Swami, and and your relative life expectancy. If a potential Harmanbhai were travelling in a horse-drawn employer is asking, your answer can indicate carriage to the grove of mango trees that Bha- to him your attitude towards overcoming chal- gatji Maharaj had watered, when one of the car- lenges and your approach to solving problems. riage’s wheels broke and collapsed. Chaos en- Essentially, from your answer to this question, sued as the carriage turned over and left this trio different groups of people can extract a little bit covered in dust and bruised. While Mota Swami of who you are, and even who you have the po- chided the driver, Yogiji Maharaj began to laugh tential to become. and declared, “A miracle!” In effect, your answer tells them about your Surprised by this response, Mota Swami PERSPECTIVE. Perspective is important be- turned to Yogiji Maharaj and asked irately, cause it shapes your approach to the world. How “What miracle?” you answered the first question is important, be- 1. Goleman, D. (1987) Research Affirms Power of Positive cause it would, if it were an ideal test, reveal Thinking. The New York Times, [online] 3 February. [Accessed: 31 January 2013].

22 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 “We were saved!” explained Yogiji Maharaj. can spark self-reflection in even the most hard- Hearing this, everyone burst into laughter. Yo- ened pessimist. giji Maharaj had found the silver lining. In fact, Look back to where you wrote your answer Yogiji Maharaj could see the silver lining in even at the beginning of this article. Now that you the darkest clouds. know the value of that answer, ask yourself if Yogiji Maharaj was once being accompanied you are content with it. Are you content to be a by a pair of devotees to a train station, when pessimist after learning about the power of per- a nearby group of schoolchildren began point- spective? If your answer was an optimistic one, ing at Yogiji Maharaj and laughing. One of the do you truly deserve the label? Do you strive devotees marched over to the children and every day to put a positive spin on the events scolded them for having the impudence to mock in your life, like Yogiji Maharaj? The answers a great sadhu like Yogiji Maharaj. After shutting to these questions could not be more important, the children up he returned to Yogiji Maharaj’s because of just how profoundly they impact side. Yogiji Maharaj gently asked him what he your everyday actions and future success. had done. Happiness is attained not so much from our The devotee replied with indignation, “Those circumstances as from our perspectives on our children had the nerve to laugh at you, so I gave circumstances. In the next two articles we will them a piece of my mind!” look at incidents from the lives of spiritual lumi- Yogiji Maharaj instantly replied, “At least naries such as Gunatitanand Swami, the param- they were not crying. Children should not cry. If hansas and Yogiji Maharaj, as well as Mahatma they derived some amusement on seeing a sadhu Gandhi and youths growing up in the then we should be happy to have been of service modern world to examine how we might learn to them.” to maintain a variety of positive perspectives in Yogiji Maharaj’s remarkable ability to see the any situation that life throws at us. u positive in overwhelmingly negative situations

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 23 LIFE: Rushil Patel, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA

We Must See the Change We Wish to Be

tunned, a lawyer spent the night on an as he hit the hard concrete railway platform of empty railroad platform after an inci- Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. He realized that Sdent that left him smouldering with an- if he wished to change the racial prejudice that ger. Though he had purchased a first class train he saw so prevalent in the world around him, he ticket, the ticket collector demanded he relocate would have to change himself and inspire this to the third class cabin based on the colour of his change in countless others. skin. His refusal ensured This thought gave rise his even more dramatic to his observation, “We relocation – off the train. need to be the change we This incident awak- wish to see in the world.” ened this man to the in- This statement has in- justices around him. spired countless people to This incident inspired change their own lives in in him an urge to establish order to make the change hope and equality in South in the outside world a re- Africa and later in India. ality. This incident com- But changing one’s pelled the young lawyer own life is easier said than to devote himself to a done. Many people wish mission of change. to change themselves, This incident was a but in the face of in- turning point in the life grained habits and world- of Mohandas K. Gandhi. views, their motivation Gandhi’s vision of a com- fizzles out. How might fortable middle-class life one achieve the change Memorial stone marks the place where Mohandas as a loyal subject of the Gandhi was thrown off the train at Pietermaritz- in oneself? British Empire shattered burg railway platform Before we can be the

24 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 change, we need to see the change. feating their competitors. On the frontiers of the African republic of In the practices leading up to the Lakers’ Botswana live two photographers who have match against the 76ers in the 2001 NBA Finals, spent the past 25 years filming documentaries Jackson asked his point guard Tryonn Lue to for National Geographic on the indigenous wild- wear a sock on his arm. Wearing the sock ena- life. Beverly and Dereck Joubert have witnessed bled Lue to emulate Allen Inverson’s compres- every predator-prey relationship, like the night sion arm sleeve during playtime. In this way, they recorded a pack of lions pursuing a baby the team could envision their competition’s elephant. The battle had already ended before star player well before the actual game. Lue’s it could even begin as the lions all clawed their defense of Inverson combined with a stellar of- way into the baby elephant’s thick skin. Gashed fense by Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’ Neal led and scarred, the baby elephant swayed, slowed, the Lakers to their 4-1 series victory. and collapsed as if to acknowledge its fate, with An early overview of their opponents helped the very will to survive extinguished in its eyes. the Lakers visualize their victory. Such success Most of the Jouberts’ footage encompasses can spill over to each facet of our life, including the basic primal balance of nature, but every so Satsang. often, an encounter rewrites this natural law. In trying to overcome a flaw, such as anger, The video seemed to show an instant spark of many people may have experienced that despite inspiration flicker in the elephant’s eye as it lay our best intentions, when we are presented with pinned by the pack. Sheer determination fuelled a situation that triggers our anger, we cannot its strength to throw off the lions as they each help but become angry. In such cases, we are scrambled to maintain their position with their simply falling into the established habit loops claws. The young elephant lumbered off with that we have created for ourselves – the stimulus the lions languishing with the same thought as being that we are upset by someone, and the re- their onlookers. What rekindled the elephant’s sponse being that we become angry with them. energy, the flicker in its eyes? It is difficult to break that habit, which we call The Jouberts remarked, “Everything has that a swabhav, but we can start with visualization. will to survive, to fight, to push through that We might visualize someone trying to trigger mental barrier...this elephant has become a sym- our anger with a rude statement or action, and bol of inspiration for us.” then imagine ourselves reacting calmly and with The Jouberts were convinced that it could benevolence towards that person. As we contin- only have been an image of continuing to live ue to perform this visualization, over time, new that inspired the elephant to change the course habit patterns will form in our brain which will to its death. manifest themselves in our behaviour. Perform Visualization, seeing the outcome in our im- the visualization enough times, and the next agination, has the potential to energize our ef- time something triggers our anger, it will feel forts and also inspire those around us to change. more natural and routine to react with calm and As a head coach in professional basketball, patience than it does to react with anger. Phil Jackson holds eleven NBA titles, the most In this way, visualization can help us generate earned by any coach. Many attribute his record new mental habit patterns that can help us eradi- to his unique style of coaching. Regarded as a cate our flaws and develop virtues. That is why “ Master”, Jackson used insights from East- it is said that when we want to change ourselves, ern philosophy to help his players visualize de- we must first see the change we want to be. u

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 25 LIFE: V. Limbachia, New Jersey, USA

d i v i n e perspective

hings are not always what they seem. cluded area, the inhabitants of Gir were largely One glance reveals one thing; a sec- ignorant of the world beyond their mountain. Tond glance uncovers something en- Generation after generation had grown up in tirely different. That looks can be deceiving is the forest without ever leaving, and so it was true whether one looks at pictures or at the sto- no surprise that the children in the forest knew ries in history. nothing about sakar (crystallized sugar). When In 1867, William Seward, the United States’ the sadhus and devotees saw the children in the Secretary of State, decided to purchase the state forest, they reached into their travelling bags of Alaska from Russia. Although he acquired and gave them sakar. The children looked at nearly six million square miles for only seven the unknown gift and equated it to the dried million dollars, many prominent individuals resin from a tree. As they the tasted the sakar, had ridiculed his decision. In fact, it famous- they started praising the sweetness of the “dried ly came to be known as “Seward’s folly”. The resin”. Seeing this, Gunatitanand Swami, said to New York Tribune scathingly noted that Alaska the sadhus and devotees, “The children enjoy “contained nothing of value but furbearing ani- the sweetness of the sakar believing it is sweet mals, and these had been hunted until they were resin. Many devotees often make a similar nearly extinct”. But, of course, things are not mistake in that they enjoy the bliss of Maha- always what they seem. In 1898, large quanti- raj and Swami, not as divine – as they actually ties of gold and other valuable natural resourc- are – but as mundane.” Gunatitanand Swami’s es were discovered in Alaska. What had been words capture just how deceiving looks can be labeled Seward’s folly was suddenly for the devotee: we can see Pramukh a brilliant decision. Looks proved to Swami Maharaj, enjoy his company, be deceiving in Alaska, just as simple and learn from his life, all while mis- illusions prove to be deceiving. understanding who he truly is. We That looks can be deceiving is a would be taking Alaska as we know it lesson that Gunatitanand Swami has today, or even as it came to be known made spiritual too. Gunatitanand in the 1890s, and treating it like we Swami once accompanied a few of were stuck in 1867. We would be let- his sadhus and devotees to the for- ting looks deceive us, as they do with est area called Gir in the these optical illusions. region. Being in a remote and se- William Seward Gunatitanand Swami thus reveals

26 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 the “perspective problem” for viewing the divine: because God and his satpurush assume human forms, they outwardly appear all too similar to us. The interactions, he warns, that devotees share with them may yield moments of bliss, but those moments can be tainted with misunderstand- ing. When Pramukh Swami Maharaj exhibits human quali- ties, like falling ill, the devotee can be deceived into thinking that God and the satpurush are not truly divine. To learn how to guard against this pos- sibility, one has to look only to Yogiji Maharaj the lives of spiritual giants. Yogiji Maharaj firmly believed in observing divine; this perspective requires one to let go of decorum in Thakorji’s presence. This meant one’s preconceived notions – in this case, any not only offering any food he would eat to notions about decorum in Thakorji’s presence Thakorji, but also engaging in devotional acts – and interpret the satpurush’s acts in a manner with single-minded focus. Once, in Bhavnagar, consistent with I 78. while arti was going on, Yogiji Maharaj A devotee can avoid misunderstanding the witnessed Shastriji Maharaj eating a mango in satpurush’s true form by recognizing that as a front of Thakorji. Shastriji Maharaj had not limited jiva, one lacks the perspective to assess offered the fruit to Thakorji, said his the satpurush’s actions. In Gondal, while Yogiji before eating the mango, or waited until after Maharaj was serving thal to Thakorji, he took arti to have it. But Yogiji Maharaj viewed a small pendo and ate it. Mahant Swami was the incident as lila, a divine act, that would surprised, as eating a sweet, and that, too, forever immortalize that image of Thakorji while seated in front of Thakorji was atypical and Shastriji Maharaj for whoever witnessed of Yogiji Maharaj. In fact, he was so surprised it. To see human-like acts as opportunities for that he started to trace where that pendo had growing closer to Maharaj and the satpurush come from. He went to the kitchen and found is what Maharaj encourages. In Gadhada I 78, out that a devotee had brought it with a wish Maharaj notes, “One who has total conviction that Yogiji Maharaj would eat his offerings. The in God, will not be misled upon seeing him devotee was poor, and had worked for weeks display human attributes such as happiness, to save up money to buy milk. After buying the sadness, fear, valour, etc. In fact, he will look milk, he went through the tedious process of upon these actions to be redemptive and for his heating the milk, making the batter and adding benefit.” Yogiji Maharaj’s attitude illustrates the sugar to make the pendo. It was only to the perspective a devotee needs in viewing the fulfil this devotee’s wish that Yogiji Maharaj

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 27 hardships, emotional conflicts, feeling insulted or other inner struggles. His own lens may be warped, causing him to misperceive God and the satpurush as warped. In such situations, one can gain inspiration and guidance on how to maintain a divine perspective by studying our satsang history, which is filled with examples of sadhus and devotees who maintained a divine perspective despite great hardship, injustice and suffering. Among the paramhansa-poets of Shriji Ma- haraj, was among the most prominent. A gifted poet who was awarded great wealth by kings, Brahmanand Swami gave up his vaunted life to live as a simple sadhu. As a sadhu, he no longer had the luxuries of his prior life. Once, Shriji Maharaj was in Kundal Brahmanand Swami along with Brahmanand Swami and some other had so uncharacteristically eaten the sweet. The sadhus. Amidst discussions, Shriji Maharaj said, humility required to recognize one’s limited “Brahmanand Swami, sing a bhajan.” perspective is crucial, because a person lacking No mellifluous sound emerged. Instead, a this humility, who has no idea of the history pair of hands rummaging through the dust could behind the pendo, could easily mistake Yogiji be seen. Puzzled, Maharaj asked Brahmanand Maharaj’s act. Swami what he was doing. “Maharaj,” he hum- To view this incident of Yogiji Maharaj with- bly replied, “I will sing a bhajan if someone who out humility, to think that one has a complete can see would hand me my sitar.” perspective, would be to illustrate just how de- “It is right next to you,” replied Maharaj. ceiving looks can be. It would be like reading “Can’t you see it?” Alaska’s history until 1868 and then deciding Brahmanand Swami then admitted that while just how smart Secretary Seward’s decision was. he had not gone completely blind, he and many Instead, by exercising humility in recognizing of the sadhus he travelled with suffered from one’s limitations, one can attain the same divine night blindness. “Forgive me Lord, I am not perspective held by spiritual giants, like Yogiji complaining,” he assured Maharaj. “It has been Maharaj. That divine perspective is one where one-and-a-half years since you forbade us from looks can never be deceiving, because the looks, eating anything containing any of the six types no matter how anomalous, are always filtered of taste. Many sadhus have become weak due to through a lens that sees no flaws. a lack of nutrition in our food.” Sometimes, though a devotee may be aware But Brahmanand Swami’s trials had not that he should perceive divinity in all the ac- been merely physical. He had given up not tions of God and the satpurush, his perspective only the luxuries of royal courts, but the may be tainted, not by any actions performed prestige and honour that came with them. After by God and the satpurush, but by the nega- all, Maharaj’s paramhansas had faced great tive reactions of his own mind due to physical opposition from many intolerant groups. They

28 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 were insulted and harassed in many situations. Brahmanand Swami and had once been held captive by an evil bawa, who was plotting to cut off their ears and noses. He had tied them to a pillar and would have succeeded had it not been for the courage of a passerby. In spite of all these trials, Brahmanand Swami’s perspective was one in which he felt blessed. When Brahmanand Swami’s relatives heard that he had become a sadhu, they went to convince him to return to his worldly life. To help them understand why he would not return, Brahmanand Swami composed the beautiful bhajan, “Vahālā lāgo chho vishva ādhār re…”. In this bhajan, Brahmanand Swami explains, “My mind is fully attracted to you [Shriji Maharaj] and I do not want to know or rely on anyone else. I have sold myself to you to be in your ser- Murtiof Dev (centre), vice. You are my sole owner as I have made this Swaminarayan Mandir, Gadhada engagement with you.” and blessed to have Maharaj’s divine company. The love, enthusiasm, and understanding It would be easy to understand if Brahmanand that Brahmanand Swami had when he first be- Swami, who could have enjoyed the company came a sadhu remained firm throughout his life. and luxuries of royalty, resented his decision Shortly after Maharaj returned to Akshardham, to become a sadhu. Instead, his perspective Brahmanand Swami was overcome with grief. – a perspective which we must aspire to He would break down and cry in front of Gopi- attain – was that Maharaj’s association is so nathji’s murti and often fall unconscious. See- great that he, as he writes in Harivar hirlo re, ing Brahmanand Swami’s lamentations, Maha- “would not dispossess it for a second, even raj appeared from the murti and gave darshan while eating, sleeping, walking or dreaming.” to Brahmanand Swami. Overcome with joy, Thus, Brahmanand Swami’s perspective that Brahmanand Swami wrote the bhajan, “Harivar Maharaj was divine gave him such strength hirlo re…”. In this bhajan, Brahmanand Swami and enthusiasm that worldly sufferings and writes, “I found a diamond in the form of Hari- miseries seemed inconsequential to him var, ‘Shri Hari’, at Gopinathji Maharaj’s mandir. compared to the divinity that he had attained Even if we spend millions to get this diamond; in the form of Maharaj. u it is impossible to get hold of it, even at the cost of a hundred heads (sacrificing one’s life a hun- dred times). I have got hold of such a priceless diamond (in the form of Shri Hari).” Brahmanand Swami’s perspective remained unchanged even after a lifetime of trials and tribulations: he still saw himself as privileged

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 29 GREAT SAINT-POETS OF INDIA: Murthy

Pandharpur stands on a brick with arms resting on his hips. It is said Bhagwan Krishna once visited his devotee, Pundarika. Since he was busy serving his parents, Pundarika offered a brick to the Lord to stand on; which he did. When the devotee was through with his filial service, he met Bhagwan Krishna. He asked the Lord to stay at Pandharpur permanently, hence the posture.

FAMILY HERITAGE Tukaram (1608-1649 ce) inherited his love for Vithal as a proud family heritage from his ancestor, Vishvambhar Buva, who preceded him by several generations, and his parents, Bolhoba and Kankai, who lived in Dehu, near Pune in . The followers of Tukaram claim a glorious descent for the saint. They insist he TUKARAM had previously been born as Prahlad, who was The Great Saint-poet of Maharashtra protected by Lord Nrusinha, Angad during the time of Bhagwan Ram and Uddhav, who served Bhagwan Krishna. He is also believed to be an incarnation of (1270-1320 ce). he name of Tukaram brings to one’s Tukaram’s birth was also special. According mind the murti of Panduranga Vithal to legend, once Lord Hari, addressing his T(Krishna) of Pandharpur. They are devotees in , said, “In the family of inseparable. In one of the thousands of abhangas Vishvambhar there is now a saint name Bolhoba; (the word means ‘indestructible’) or bhajans by I am resolved to present him with a son who Tukaram, he has written, “To praise anyone shall be a world saviour and world teacher.” Hari except Panduranga is to me a crime equivalent to then led Namdev aside and reminded him that killing a Brahmin… If I swerve from my single- he had never finished the 1000 million abhangas minded devotion to , may my tongue he had promised to write; this then would be be torn into thousands of pieces.’’ In another his “opportunity to assume the flesh again and abhanga, he proclaims, “I am an inhabitant of finish the task”. This is the story regarding the Vaikuntha, I have come here from Vaikuntha.” birth of the saint. The reason for his coming from Vaikuntha is Tukaram’s predecessors treated their spiritual explained in the following words, “(I have come legacy as a priceless one, but the saint surpassed here) to sound the drum of Dharma, to destroy all of them in this respect. He gave up every- Kaliyuga, so as to make devotees take the name thing for Bhagwan Vithal, including a prosper- of Bhagwan amid acclamations of ‘Victory, ous business, so that he could serve him better. victory’.” Even when his business declined and collapsed The murti of Panduranga Vithal in Tukaram’s faith in Hari remained as firm as

30 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 ever. His eighth ancestor,­­ and it became an important Vishvambhar, who follow- centre of pilgrimage. ing his mother’s advice, Tukaram has given some visited Pandharpur every details of his personal life fortnight for nine months, in his lyrical compositions. used to go to the shrine with a glad heart but felt EARLY LIFE very sad on the return trip. Mahipati is reputed Vishvambhar was friendly to be a highly reliable to sadhus and Brahmins biographer of Tukaram. whom he would feed on His Bhakta Vijaya and a regular basis. He was an Bhakta Lilamrita contain honest businessman, a trait the story of the saint’s inherited by Tukaram. On life. his first visit Vishvambhar According to Mahipati, was accompanied by four Tukaram Bolhoba Ambile, companions. They walked to give the saint his full to Pandharpur singing Murtiof Panduranga Vithal, Pandharpur name, was born in 1608 in bhajans. When Vishvambhar had darshan of Dehu on the right bank of the Indrayani River Panduranga Vithal in the mandir he recalled the in present-day Maharashtra. Other sources lives and lilas of mahatmas like Pundarik, Nam- mention different years for the saint’s birth: dev and Chokhamela (a Mahar (lower caste) 1568, 1577, 1588, while Marathi authorities devotee of Vithal), and lost bodily conscious- maintain it was 1598. A temple dedicated to ness. Such had been his ecstasy on seeing the Tukaram stands where his house had once stood. serene murti of Vithal. The family was known for its piety. Tukaram’s parents were great devotees of Vithal. For forty VITHAL’S PROMISE years both of them used to visit Pandharpur in When Vithal realized his devotee’s difficulty the months of Ashadh (June- July) and Kartik in coming to Pandharpur every two weeks, he (October-November). The father, who managed appeared to Vishvambhar in a dream and told the family business, never believed in making him that he would himself come to Dehu, so that money through dishonest deals. Despite being the devotee could worship with ease. According a very good businessman, he was honest to his to legend, Vishvambhar went to a mango grove finger tips. on the outskirts of Dehu with 50 to 100 villagers It is said that when Tukaram was born there as directed in the dream. At the indicated spot was an incredible lustre on his face, which the group found fragrant flowers, herbal plants dazzled his mother’s eyes. She took her newborn and tulsi leaves. They started digging and found son and placed him at the feet of Panduranga. a beautiful murti of Vithal clad in pitambar, with Legend has it, following a divine revelation, she a tulsi garland round the neck and also a murti named the child Tukaram. of . The devotees started shouting ‘Jai’ Tukaram was the second of three sons, the out of sheer joy. Vishvambhar took the murtis other two being Savaji and Kanhoba. At the to the village and installed Vithal with great time of Tukaram’s birth his normally religious enthusiasm. This is how Vithal came to Dehu mother became much more so and showed signs

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 31 FAMILY BUSINESS Tukaram entered business in 1621, at the age of 13, when his elder brother Savji expressed his inability as he was interested more in the spiritual world. Like other members of the family, he did not consider business to be a means of making money by hook or by crook. In fact, Tukaram ran the business like a sarvodaya enterprise where the buyer could take whatever he wanted, sometimes even without paying for it! Mandir of Bhagwan Pandurang in Dehu, the birthplace of Tukaram Tukaram says that as he followed the of extreme renunciation. It was to be so as she profession of a merchant it might create the was to deliver a great bhakta. It is well said that impression that he is a vaishya. It is not so. He coming events cast their shadow. She would not further says about birth that that family is pure speak to anyone and showed great indifference and that country is sacred where Hari’s servants to day-to-day affairs. But as the saint grew are born. up he showed a strong inclination towards In one of his compositions, Tukaram says: ; a strong sign that he had been chosen “Between the low and lofty, God knows no by Panduranga himself. The saint inherited this difference. trait from his mother in full measure. Still to the faithful He shows All His glory.” As a child, Tukaram was fond of games. He The business prospered for a few years, had several playmates. Even in his abhangas he then troubles followed. Even then he did not wrote a lot about Krishna’s childhood lilas. As give up his honest ways. His faith in Hari he grew up the seeds of bhakti for Hari, sown was as steadfast as ever. He laughed away the by his parents, took root and flourished. A taunts of other businessmen and well-meaning stage came when he became totally absorbed in friends: “Look what your Hari has done. This Krishna. This remained so till the end. is what happens in placing too much faith in He cared little for birth status and caste. He Hari.” He met with failure in everything he brushed aside distinctions based on them. He undertook. Despite their taunts others were recognized only one caste – that of the devotees convinced of Tukaram’s goodness and helped of Hari. him with money. But the new ventures turned He talks of his utter dependence on Hari in out to be no better than the previous ones. these words: The family was reduced to dire straits. The “As the stream to fishes thou, following is a chronology of Tukaram’s woes: As is to the calf the cow, death of Tukaram’s parents in 1625 and elder To a faithful wife how dear brother, Savji, becomes a sannyasi; in 1629 his Tidings of her Lord to hear! business fails; in the worst ever famine in 1630 How a miser’s heart is set his elder wife, Rukhma, dies of hunger along On the wealth he hopes to get! with his eldest son. These were landmarks in Such, says Tuka, such am I! the saint’s life, not that they in any way affected But for thee, I’d surely die.” his spiritual life. If anything, these tragedies only reinforced his faith in Panduranga.

32 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 SECOND MARRIAGE am bankrupt; hence my shame. Here I am; my By the time the business prospered and went companions have left me; no one will lend me a bust Tukaram had already married twice. hand with this sack! O Hari, God of , I have When he was 14 Tukaram was married, as no friend but thee! Run to help me!” As he spoke was the custom in those days. First, he was mar- he saw a wayfaring man beside him. “It was Hari ried to Rukhmabai. She turned out to be a devot- who had come to help him,” says Mahipati. ed wife but was constantly dogged by ill health “Who are you?” asked the stranger, “Blocking due to chronic asthma. So his parents decided the road in this way?” “I am a dealer in grain,” that Tukaram should take a second wife. That is said Tukaram, “and my companions have gone how Avalibai, also called Jijabai, came into his ahead.” Then the sympathetic stranger put forth life. She was the daughter of a rich shopkeeper his hand and in a moment laid the sack on the of Pune. Despite her nagging nature, she stood ox. After that he stepped forward and showed by her husband when he faced difficulties on the Tukaram the way, till they came to the Indrayani business front. By that time Rukhmabai had died River which was high in flood. But the stranger of starvation along with her son in a terrible fam- led the way and they crossed safely. Tukaram ine. Tukaram had also lost his eldest sister-in-law stood amazed and “Suddenly”, says Mahipati in an earlier famine. Four years after he entered triumphantly, “a flash of lightning showed business, Tukaram lost his parents. In the same Tukaram that his companion was wearing a year his eldest brother became a mendicant. pitambar (the usual yellow silk robe of Vishnu), Tukaram had six children: three daughters had a sparkling kaustubh jewel round his throat, – Kashibai, Bhagirathi and Gangabai – and and wore a rosary of tulsi beads round his neck.” three sons – Mahadev, and Narayan. After the storm and rains it was the turn of Narayan was born four months after Tukaram’s drought. Hari once again came to the rescue death. The girls were married in a miraculous of his devotee. In the hope of making money, manner. When they came of marriageable age Tukaram set out with bags of chillies for the the saint was under pressure to find suitable Konkan region. On the way he constantly bridegrooms. One day he found three boys chanted the name of Hari. After reaching the belonging to his community playing in the sea, he unloaded his oxen under a pipal tree street. He brought them home, married off his near a mandir. The villagers came and daughters to them and later held a wedding asked his price. He answered, “You know the feast! Not a whimper of protest was raised by usual price, don’t you? Take what you want,” anyone. Bhagwan Vithal, undoubtedly, had a and he let them fill the measure themselves. At hand in the whole affair. first they feared he would check them, but his thoughts were far away, and he never interfered GOD TO HIS RESCUE with them. The news spread through the village, Misfortunes do not come singly. Tukaram and people came tumbling over each other. “We put his shoulder to the wheel and soldiered will pay you later on,” they said. “Very good,” on. One night a great storm broke out while said Tukaram. Some took handfuls, others kilos, Tukaram was driving an ox cart with a sack of according to their strength, and at last one rascal grain. His companions had gone ahead. The said, “I have plenty of money at home, I want a saint cried in anguish, “The filthy world! I have sack of chillies.” “I will trust you,” said Tukaram. embraced it! Hence my troubles! My father is Pious men understand God’s purposes, but not dead; my brother has abandoned everything; I the hard hearts of the wicked.

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 33 ‘PAY UP THE DUES’ and gave him the two hundred and fifty rupees he Meanwhile, the kind-hearted stranger who was carrying. When Tukaram returned to Dehu, helped Tukaram with the bag came on the scene. the people were convinced that he was ‘mad’. He went to the villagers and introduced himself They garlanded him with onions, seated him on as Tukaram’s agent. He said those people who a donkey and paraded him through the streets. had taken chillies on credit should pay up the Now Tukaram had had enough. He was dues. The villagers said, “We do not know how disgusted with the affairs of the world. He much he gave.” Then the stranger told them the decided to bid goodbye to business. He was 21 exact quantity of chillies they had taken and the then. By then he had lost his wife and son to a amounts due. They were left with no option famine; both died crying for food. He sought but to pay the amount. Then remained only the solitude and the companionship of Hari more rascal who had taken the whole sack of chillies. than ever. He sat in for seven days. Tukaram’s man said, after taking a rope in his Then, according to Mahipati the saint heard hand, “Pay me or I will hang myself and ruin a divine voice. Finally, he withdrew to a hill your whole village!” Then the villagers fell on called Bhambhanath and had a vision of Vithal. the rascal, kicked him and cursed him. The latter His brother Kanhoba brought him home. But had no option but to pay the whole amount as he lived as a recluse, returning to Dehu in the the others had done. evening and going back to the hill for the rest of Meanwhile, the struggle between the boy the day to worship Vithal. scout businessman and unscrupulous elements Tukaram’s fame reached the ears of Shivaji. continued unabated. Once, a cheat palmed off He wanted to hear his kirtans. He sent a fake bracelets as gold ones. Tukaram had no caparisoned horse, an umbrella and other money so at first he declined the offer. But the paraphernalia to make the saint come to him. trickster agreed for part payment and gave him The saint was greatly saddened at the sight of the bracelets. When the saint went to the debtors gold coins and the horse sent to welcome him and presented the bracelets there was loud to Shivaji’s presence. He declined the invitation laughter all around when they discovered that and advised Shivaji to call himself the servant of the simple saint had once again been cheated. Vithoba. Then Shivaji himself went to Lohogaon But Avalibai could not let down her husband to listen to Tukaram’s kirtans. Shivaji offered despite his reckless spending to help those in to give up everything to enjoy the bliss of the need. She pledged her ornaments and raised saint’s company. But Tukaram advised Shivaji to two hundred pieces of silver. She advised her carry on his duties. Tukaram and Ramdas were husband to use the amount carefully and not contemporaries; they were born in the same waste it on beggars. Tukaram bought salt with year. It is not clear whether they had ever met. the amount and went to Baleghat to sell the It is widely believed that Tukaram took commodity and buy sugar with the money and jalsamadhi to meet his Hari. There is nothing sell it for cash again. surprising about his end. One day he walked into the Indrayani River. His rug, the cymbals in his PUNISHMENT FOR ‘MADNESS’ hand and tambura fell down and he was never When Tukaram was returning home he found seen again. Thus ended the earthly existence of it difficult not to help a poor Brahmin who was a saint who endured so much suffering to make sorely in need of two hundred and fifty rupees others happy. u to ward off debtors. The saint took pity on him

34 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 VACHANAMRUT: Translated by Prakash Dave

VACHANAMRUT NIRUPAN The Vachanamrut is a compilation of the spiritual discourses of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. It is read daily by countless devotees and is also elaborated upon by sadhus and volunteers during the daily katha in BAPS mandirs and assemblies. An elaboration on an excerpt of a Vachanamrut has been given here. It has been translated from ‘Satsang Saurabh’ in Gujarati.

Bhakti Means Following the Spiritual Commands Vachanãmrut, Gadhadã I 15

On Mãgshar vadi 3, Samvat 1876 [4 December 1819], Shriji Mahãrãj was sitting in Dãdã Khãchar’s darbãr in Gadhadã. He was dressed entirely in white clothes. At that time, an assembly of all the sadhus as well as devotees from various places had gathered before him. Thereupon Shriji Mahãrãj said, “A person whose heart is filled with bhakti towards God feels, ‘I want to act only according to God’s and his Sant’s commands.’ Such is the spirit within his heart. Moreover, he never – even by mistake – utters, ‘I will only be able to follow certain commands, but not others.’

DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THIS SHRIJI MAHARAJ LIKES A PERSON WHO HAS VACHANAMRUT BHAKTI TOWARDS GOD n In this Vachanamrut, Bhagwan Swami- n Bhagwan Swaminarayan says, “Even if one narayan describes the inner disposition required is as virtuous as Naradji, but lacks bhakti for to offer bhakti to God. He gives clarity about God, I do not like that person.” (Gadhada I 37) what to do and how to progress spiritually. Fur- n What is the outcome of being virtuous? It ther, he sheds light on the two attributes of a is having devotion to God and Satsang. Without person possessing sincere bhakti: these two, even the learned eventually debase 1. Eagerness and courage to obey commands themselves ( 114). 2. Resoluteness and faith in beholding God’s n We see devotees singing bhajans, arti, etc. form while meditating. with great gusto. We also see them becoming devotional when engaged in different forms of bhakti, such as, darshan, turning malas, per-

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 35 forming puja, applying tilak-chandlo, pilgrim- ample of famine-stricken people who came to ages, performing yagnas, etc. Bhimnath Mandir in Saurashtra (Gujarat) to re- However, such acts of bhakti towards God ceive a single ladle of boiled bran in alms during may not bear fruit if one does not have true love the famine of 1823. for God. Genuine bhakti is one that comes from Bhimnath Mandir is situated on a small hill, the heart. with the river Nilka flowing at the bottom. While waiting in line to receive the food, the WHAT DOES HEARTFELT BHAKTI MEAN? impatient paupers used to push each other. An- n ‘Bhakti from one’s heart’ means to surren- noyed with such behaviour, the persons serv- der oneself to and reverentially love manifest ing the food would often shove them to con- God with the firm that he is flawless. trol them. Subsequently, everybody in the line n Bhakti for God should come from the would go tumbling down towards the river- bottom of one’s heart, and it should fill the bank. heart with love. The Hindu shastras praise Despite being pushed around and insulted, such bhakti. the paupers would again queue up, sometimes n Tasks not rooted in good intentions do three to four times, before they received any not last long. Only tasks undertaken with good food. intentions persist. Similarly, only bhakti that Only such intense desire, like that of these comes from the heart persists for life and leads paupers, can help us to develop the aforesaid in- to happines. ner disposition. For instance, we may be assigned a seva of u Gunatitanand Swami’s commands to Bha- cleaning utensils, but if we do not put our heart gatji Maharaj were difficult and challenging, but into it, then we may do the seva in haste and he wholeheartedly abided by them. Swami told without interest, only so that others may not him, “Call Girnar”, “Mix the lime”, “Prepare a scold us or perceive us in a negative light. We canopy”, “Shave the sadhus’ heads”, etc. may even escape from the scene if an opportu- Bhagatji executed all these commands suc- nity comes our way. cessfully, because he had understood the intense On the other hand, Swamishri washed uten- need to please Gunatitanand Swami for his spir- sils on the very day when he was appointed as itual progress. president of BAPS. Even in old age, Swamishri u Satyakam Jabali’s guru ordered him, “Tend seeks opportunities to do seva. This is because to these 400 cows till they multiply to 1,000 and his seva and bhakti come from his heart. then come back for brahmagnan.” Satyakam, with absolute faith in his guru’s words, en- WHAT IS THE INNER DISPOSITION OF A grossed himself in caring for the cows. He DEVOTEE WHO HAS PROFOUND BHAKTI? obeyed this seemingly pointless command of his n His inner disposition is ‘I want to act only guru because he seriously felt the need for spir- according to God’s and his Sant’s commands’. itual progress and saw his own self-interest in But, how can one develop such inner disposi- acting according to his guru’s commands. tion? u Similarly, Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s param­ n He sincerely wishes for spiritual progress hansas and sadhus went through through 114 and sees it in his own interest to act according to trials given by Maharaj. Some of them included the commands of God and the Sant. commands like sitting in cold water during u Gunatitanand Swami used to give the ex- winter after midnight; wearing cloth made from

36 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 jute; staying under trees on the outskirts of to Nilkanth Varni in Loj that he should villages; mixing all food received as alms into be prepared to embrace a pillar if he really round balls and then eating them. desired to stay in Satsang. Upon receiving the n If one has love and affection then one can letter Nilkanth immediately stood up and liter- obey whatever difficult command one is given. ally embraced a pillar. Because of his reverence n In Vachanamrut Kariyani 11, Bhagwan for Ramanand Swami he obeyed Swami’s com- Swaminarayan describes the gopis’ affection to- mands. wards Shri Krishna, “He who has affection for u Raghuvirji Maharaj once arrived his beloved, God, will never disobey the wishes on a visit to Junagadh mandir. Following his ar- of his beloved. That is the characteristic of af- rival the festivities started. Insightful spiritual fection. discourses were delivered and delicious foods “One who has true affection for a person acts were prepared every day. Even amidst such cel- according to that person’s wishes. If he realizes ebrations, when Gunatitanad Swami asked Jaga his beloved will be pleased by his staying nearby, Swami to go and take care of the stock of fodder then he stays nearby. On the other hand, if he and grains at Sankhadavadar which was miles realizes his beloved will be pleased by his staying away from the mandir, Jaga Swami happily fol- away, then he stays away; but in no way does he lowed Swami’s instruction. behave contrary to his beloved’s wish. That is u Once, Shastriji Maharaj ordered Yogiji Ma- the characteristic of affection. haraj to prepare meals for labourers engaged “Therefore, a person who has affection for in the mandir construction. Henceforth, Yogiiji God would never disobey God’s commands. He Maharaj carried out his commands without a would act only according to God’s wishes. That single lapse for 40 years. is the characteristic of affection.” n One can follow the commands by cultivat- u Dada Khachar had deep affection towards ing immense faith and trust in God Bhagwan Swaminarayan and so when the latter u We have a great amount of trust in a doctor asked him to give his land, property and royal and in his words. Because of faith that a doctor rights to his sisters, Dada immediately pre- will help us restore our health, we readily accept pared a legal document to transfer everything his advice for medications, injections, incisions, to his sisters. operations, dietary restrictions and even lifestyle u Bhagwan Swaminarayan once wrote a let- changes. ter from Bhadra addressing Sura Khachar, Som- u Similarly, God and his Sadhu are the doc- la Khachar, Mancha Khachar and other village tors of our . leaders to go to Ramdas Swami in Ahmedabad u Gunatitanand Swami has said, “I know only and renounce instantly, become sadhus and meet how to cure the disease of birth and death, but him at Bhuj. not anything else.” Thus, if we develop firm All the 18 devotees immediately followed faith that Swami’s words will help us to get rid Maharaj’s commands. Without true affection of lust, anger, greed, taste and ego we can easily for God it is very difficult to relinquish worldly follow all his injunctions. pleasures and follow such commands. u Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s paramhansas u One can carry out such difficult commands once came to him and said: by developing firm conviction of God coupled “Kaho to matku na bhariye mite, kaho to with knowledge of his glory. anna na jamiye pete, n Ramanand Swami wrote a letter from Kaho to pivu taji daiye pãni, rahiye maun na

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 37 boliye vãni, mand observed according to the injunction of Em himmat chhe mana mãy, tame kaho te the manifest God is more uplifting than ten mil- kem na thãy.” lion commands observed wilfully.” “If you say so we will not blink, eat, drink A devotee of some other faith once came water or speak. We have such courage within, so to Yogiji Maharaj to break (end) his thirteen- what can we not do at your word!” month-long dharna-parna austerity. Yogiji Ma- u In anticipation that Maharaj might ask to haraj blessed him and later said, “Merits ob- observe more stringent vows during Chaturmas, tained from only one fast performed according Muktanand Swami began to drink the bitter to the commands of Shastriji Maharaj is more juice of neem leaves. than such a thirteen-month fast.” u Gunatitanand Swami once said, “Only u Kartikeya circumambulated the entire one who puts aside all types of fears can please earth while Ganapati – as per the instructions of a Satpurush. This Pragji is such a devotee.” mother – circumambulated only a cow. Gunatitanand Swami once asked Pragji, “Can However, Ganapati attained higher merits than you speak about my glory to a senior sadhu Kartikeya, because he had acted according to the like Pavitranand Swami?” Since Pragji didn’t will of his mother. fear anybody, he obeyed Swami’s wish and u Yogiji Maharaj once said, “I joined Shas- pleased him. triji Maharaj in 1910. Thenceforth, till today in u Jaga Swami once asked Shastriji Maharaj, 1950, for all these 40 years, I have incessantly “Will you carry out the task of building mandirs acted in accordance to Shastriji Maharaj’s wish.” and installing the murtis of Akshar and Purush- u Shastriji Maharaj asked Pramukh Swami ottam?” to do the seva of mixing lime for construction Shastriji Maharaj built six mandirs amidst activities in Atladra. Pramukh Swami employed great difficulties, and fulfilled the wish of Shriji himself fervently in that seva. The heat of the Maharaj in establishing true of Purush- lime scalded his skin. Blisters developed on ottam along with Akshar. his entire body. Even then he did not give up n Lastly, one can carry out the commands if the seva. one firmly that… u Pramukh Swami Maharaj was once asked: u God will be pleased only if I behave accord- “What is the secret of your spiritual progress?” ing to his commands (Gadhada I 25). Pramukh Swami Maharaj replied: “Whosoever u True greatness lies in observing the com- has progressed has progressed by pleasing his mands of God (Gadhada I 31). guru, and by earning the guru’s blessings and u I will experience peace only if I act accord- grace. I was fortunate to get a true guru. I too ing to the injunctions of God (Gadhada I 34). moulded my life according to his commands.” u Only those who act according to the injunc- n Secondly, such a devotee would never – tions of God are liberated (Gadhada II 6). even by mistake – utter, “I will only be able to u Only one who follows the commands of follow certain commands, but not others.” u the satpurush is behaving as the atma (Gadhada II 51). u Gunatitanand Swami said, “To do as the Sant says is best. To do as per one’s own wish is worst (14/8).” u Gunatitanand Swami said, “A single com-

38 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 News Is to the Mind What SUGAR Is to the Body

n an interview that appeared in the Sunday Times of India on 5 May 2013, a Swiss writer, Rolf Dobelli, shares his thoughts about restricting his Ireading and watching of news. He has pretty much given up reading news. He counts the benefits of doing this, “It saves a lot of time and news does not allow you to make better decisions about important things in life. It does not offer any competitive advantage.” He adds that he has not consumed news for several years. “News is to the mind what sugar is to the body. It is not good.” Rolf believes that news in the form of print or television gives you no choice other than what the journalists give you. “Journalists have a job to create content that sells advertising and increases circulation. So, that automatically filters out certain news and favours certain others.” He also explains that news stories are often very addictive, “The news of 9/11 makes people want to know by the hour,” and what more has happened or been found as evidence. Rolf adds, “A car crash somewhere is not relevant to me, it has no bearing on my life. I don’t need to know it. Such news causes stress.” Rolf rejects that news make one knowledgeable to ideas and trends. He says, “Knowledge can never be an aggregation of news. You cannot build knowledge on news. Television is the worst form of journalism. It has 30 seconds to make a point. The pictures are scandalous and they are very bright and very loud. The least worst is the printed paper.” It is difficult for the majority of people to totally give up reading or watching the news, but discrimination (vivek) can help you reap many benefits. There is no need to read everything just because you have time and interest. Be selective. Skip news that are irrelevant to you, and read only the headlines or the first and last paragraphs of some news items. Read positive or inspiring stories that spur you with joy, to be good and helpful. Omit negative or glamorous news to remain stable-minded, good and happy. u

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 39 HINDUISM FAQs On Hinduism From Hinduism, An Introduction by Sadhu Vivekjivandas and Consultant Editor Dr Janak Dave, published by Swaminarayan Aksharpith

Banyan tree – Kabirvad, Gujarat Pipal tree 1. Why is the banyan tree considered sacred in 2. What is the significance of the pipal tree? India? , Buddhists and Jains consider the A banyan tree is a fig tree that grows into a pipal tree to be sacred. It is also called the Sa- giant tree. Its botanical name is Ficus bengha- cred Fig or Bo-tree. It is a species of the banyan lensis. fig tree, and known by the botanical name of Fi- The banyan tree is characterized by its aerial cus religiosa. It is a deciduous or semi-evergreen prop roots which grow into thick trunks. With tree that is native to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and time the tree spreads laterally through its prop China. It grows up to 30 metres with a trunk roots, and the latter become indistinguishable from diameter of 3 metres. the main trunk. One of the most famous banyan Bhagwan Buddha is believed to have attained trees is the ‘Kabirvad’ in Gujarat. It has spread over enlightenment underneath the Bo-tree. The tree 3.7 acres of land on an islet on the River Narmada came to be known as the ‘Bodhi’ tree. It is well- near Bharuch. Records state that it is more than known as a symbol of happiness, prosperity, lon- 300 years old. People frequent it for darshan, and gevity and good luck. the tourists to see one of nature’s wonders. Hindu sadhus meditate under the Bo-tree. In Hindu culture, the banyan tree is also For certain Buddhists the tree is often the site of called ‘Kalpavriksha’, meaning “wish-fulfilling Buddhist and animist shrines. divine tree.” Bhagwan Shiva is often depicted sitting in silence under the banyan tree. Hindu 3. What is the significance of the billi patra? married women worship the banyan tree annu- The billi patra or bael is a middle-sized slen- ally in June on Vatasavitri Purnima (full moon der aromatic tree. It is a fruit bearing tree which day) with flowers, rice grains, milk and by wind- is indigenous to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myan- ing thread around its trunk. They observe three mar, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia and days of austerities and pray for happiness and Thailand. The billi patra or billi leaves are used protection from widowhood. in worshipping the Shiva linga. On the occasion

40 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 of Shiva-ratri, Shaiva devotees observe a vigil all night and offer billi leaves while chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”. The billi leaves are considered to be very sacred. In the holy month of Shravan (July or August) countless Shiva devotees offer billi leaves on Shiva lingas to appease Bhagwan Shiva and receive his blessings.

4. What is the significance of ankol and akado plants?

The Latin names of ankol and akado plants Offering billi patras on a Shiva linga are Algium Lamarkh and Calatropis Procera re- compared to a lotus: lotus eyes, lotus feet, lo- spectively. Their flowers and leaves are dear to tus hands, and he is described to be the lotus of Hanumanji. Thus garlands of these flowers and our heart. leaves are offered to him. The lotus grows in muddy waters or ponds, Both plants grow in different parts of India. yet remains beautiful, pure and unsoiled by the Ankol flowers are white and black in colour, dirt. This means that even if one is born in an whereas the akado flowers are either white or unholy family (like Prahlada was) or in the low- reddish. The height of akado plants ranges from est caste one can blossom to perfection. Further- a bush that is three to four feet high to a tree more, in spite of living in a bad world a person standing 25 to 40 feet. can remain pure and be good. It also means that The red akado plant is smaller in size ranging like a person of wisdom one should remain ever between two and six feet, while the white akado blissful and untouched by the ever-changing reaches to a height of 10 to 15 feet. world of sorrow and joy. The shastras describe the chakras, i.e 5. What is so special about the lotus flower? subtle centres of consciousness in the body. The lotus is India’s national flower. The lo- Each one is associated with the lotus, having a tus symbolizes truth (satyam), auspiciousness certain number of petals. The Sahasrara Chakra (shivam) and beauty (sundaram). Since God is in the crown of the head opens into a thousand attributed with the same virtues of satyam, shi- petals when a person attains yogi-hood or God- vam and sundaram, many parts of his body are realization. u

Akado plant Lotus flower

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 41 ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ A New Commentary on the Prasthantrayi

such proportions in the 21st century. The vice- chancellor of Chandrashekhar Saraswati Uni- versity, Professor V.S. Vishnu Potty, opines, “In my view, this new interpretation opens our eyes to a new horizon in this field of knowledge in an objective manner. To people of unbiased mindset and free from preconceived notions, this new interpretation is a treatise and has to be highly appreciated, no doubt, with confi- dence. The whole text seems to be the output of tireless effort which explains comprehen- sively the Swaminarayan philosophy without Swamishri honours and inaugurates the ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ by Swami Bhadreshdas in 2007, Ahmedabad slipping from the traditional path of the sacred scriptures. The lucid presentation of the whole n the Indian tradition of philosophy many work proves the power of intellectual skills of different beliefs and principles were born the writer that any seeker of knowledge can Iout of deep studies and contemplations easily follow. This work of Swami Bhadreshdas by great rishis and . The acharyas con- has blossomed into a thought-provoking testa- templated upon the ancient sacred texts of the ment that would strengthen the faith of all fol- , Brahmasutras and the Bhagavad lowers of the Swaminarayan way of life. This is Gita. They wrote commentaries (bhashyas) on another jewel that has got itself placed in the them and established schools of thoughts and ornament of Bhashya to the Brahmasutra which . Their efforts were of no ordinary ornaments the neck of mother Upanishad.” feat in the history of . Centu- ries later they are still highly valued and remain WHAT IS THE PRASTHANTRAYI? the basis of philosophical debates and novel The Prasthantrayi comprises of three princi- elaborations. pal shastras: Upanishads, Brahmasutras and the Recently, in 2007, with the blessings and , that take one to the final goal of inspiration of Pramukh Swami life, i.e. moksha. Maharaj, Swami Bhadreshdas Among the six orthodox completed commentaries on the systems of Indian philosophy: Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita and Sankhya, Yoga, Nyay, Vaishe- the Brahmasutras, all popularly shik, Purva Mimansa and Uttar known as the Prasthantrayi. His Mimansa (), the Vedanta seminal work is called ‘Swami- system is believed to be the crest- narayan Bhashyam’. It is the first jewel. Later, according to tra- ever bhashya or commentary of dition, the acharyas interpreted

42 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 and wrote commentaries on the Upanishads, According to the longstanding tradition and Brahmasutras and Bhagavad Gita to establish method of writing bhashyas the ‘Swaminarayan their own schools of Vedantic thought. Of Bhashyam’ in by Swami Bhadreshdas these three texts the Upanishads are of utmost establishes the philosophy of Bhagwan Swami- importance, because they are revealed texts. narayan, which is known as ‘Swaminarayan Dar- The Brahmasutras provides a systematiza- shan’. Bhagwan Swaminarayan revealed his own tion of the philosophy of the Upanishads. The philosophy in his discourses, delivered 200 years Bhagavad Gita is an extremely popular shas- ago, which was compiled into the Vachanamrut tra and highly venerated, so it was included in his time. into the prasthana group. The main acharyas who wrote bhashyas or commentaries on the WHAT IS THE ‘SWAMINARAYAN BHASHYAM’? Prasthantrayi were Shankaracharya, Ramanu- Swami Bhadreshdas, the author, explains jacharya, , and about ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’, “For any new Vallabhacharya. academic work, unique and novel contributions In that same tradition of writing commentar- are its two main requisites. The principles pre- ies, Swami Bhadreshdas has written commentar- sented in the ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ are ies on the 10 Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita and unique and novel. Bhagwan Swaminarayan gave Brahmasutras. All the bhashyas or commentaries references of the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita by the acharyas reveal profound and sometimes in his discourses, and also his own novel inter- hidden meanings of the sacred texts. The tradi- pretations and philosophical explanations to tion of writing bhashyas is an ancient one. Each them. His perspectives were found to be valid commentary by the great acharyas is set in a par- according to the Upanishads, Gita and the Brah- ticular philosophical module. Not all commen- masutras. Since this was known to H.H. Pra- taries are called bhashyas. The commentator mukh Swami Maharaj he instructed me to deeply must have a thorough study of the six systems study the Prasthantrayi and write commentaries of Indian philosophy and possess intellectual based on Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s philosophy. maturity, clarity of principles and an expertise This was how I was inspired to write the ‘Swami- in the Sanskrit language. Each bhashya reveals narayan Bhashyam’.” the writer’s principle based upon the shlokas in In his Vachanamrut, Bhagwan Swami- the Prasthantrayi. Every word of each shloka is narayan has mentioned that jiva, ishwar, maya, interpreted and commented upon in accordance Brahman and Parabrahman are the five eter- to his philosophy. Sometimes, the words inter- nal, ontological realities. The ‘Swaminarayan preted give new meanings that stand the aca- Bhashyam’ deals with them in detail. It also demic scrutiny of other scholars. A bhashya also focuses on the importance and unique iden- includes references from other shastras to sub- tity of Aksharbrahman and Parabrahman. The stantiate the acharya’s own school of thought. Bhashya also gives a unique meaning to brah- In addition, it also raises and satisfies arguments mavidya (spiritual knowledge) by elucidat- of other Vedantic schools by providing satisfac- ing the knowledge about Aksharbrahman and tory references and logical answers to prove Parabrahman. It further establishes Bhagwan one’s own principle. In brief, a bhashya or com- Swaminarayan’s principle of becoming brah- mentary reveals a new philosophical principle marup and offering upasana and bhakti to from the three main shastras in a logical, clear Parabrahman with utmost servitude. and simple manner.

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 43 RELEVANCE OF ‘SWAMINARAYAN search articles and papers on the Upanishads BHASHYAM’ TODAY and the Bhagavad Gita. He teaches and also Swami Bhadreshdas also explains about guides many PhD students. the importance and benefits of his bhashya in The ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ has been in- today’s society and scholarly circles. He says, troduced into the academic curriculum at Som- “‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ will be helpful to natha University, Gujarat. Scholars at Harvard all generations of people in two ways: and Oxford Universities have shown interest in “First, it will provide valid answers to life’s the ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’. profound problems. In our rapidly growing ma- Recently, with the blessings of Pramukh Swa- terialistic society it is becoming clear that spir- mi Maharaj, Swami Bhadreshdas is studying the ituality will provide solutions to our burgeoning to write bhashyas on them. mundane issues. The Upanishads, Brahmasutras and Gita explain that spirituality is brahmavidya REVIEWS or paravidya. The ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ “Lucid in style and structured in provides clear and unique understandings of accordance with the Indian clas- brahmavidya. One who understands and im- sical tradition, this in-depth and bibes brahmavidya in his life will find lasting somewhat poetic commentary solutions to his problems. presents new insights into the se- “Second, in the history of Indian and West- crets of Vedanta in comparison ern philosophy the ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ to any previous views on the subject.” sheds new light altogether, which will inspire - Mahamahopadhyaya scholars in India and abroad to investigate and Dr Krishnamurti Shastri, do further research. ‘Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ Member of the Project Committee, will also spark research in exploring new mean- Maharshi Sandipani Rashtriya ings and perspectives to the shlokas and words Vedavidya Pratishthan, Ujjain in the Prasthantrayi.” To accomplish the ‘Swaminarayan Bhashy- “Indeed, this is a delightful, am’, Swami Bhadreshdas has rigorously stud- great work by Sadhu Bhadresh- ied Sanskrit and the Shad Darshanas for 25 das, a disciple of the revered years. He attained his undergraduate and Pramukh Swami Maharaj, an postgraduate (M.A.) degrees after studying expert in an array of scriptures Sanskrit and Shad Darshanas at the Sampoor- and well-versed in the views of nanand University, Benaras, and the Bharatiya great acharyas like Shankara and . Vidya Bhavan in Mumbai. Thereafter, he ac- With the principles of Vedanta at heart, this complished his PhD on the subject of Bhaga- poetic prose penetrates the heart and yet ad- vad Gita from Karnataka University. The Ka- heres to the manner of the traditional com- vikulguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, , mentaries.” awarded him a DLitt for his unique commen- - Mahamahopadhyaya taries (bhashyas on Prasthanstrayi) and the Prof. N.S. Ramanuja Tatacharya highest academic honour of ‘Mahamahopad- Former Vice-Chancellor of hyay’. The University of Mysore honoured Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapith, him with the Professor G.M. Memorial Award. , and profound scholar of Vedant Swami Bhadreshdas has also written many re- (Contd. on pg. 54)

44 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s

June 2013, Sarangpur

In Sarangpur, Swamishri followed his routine Jharukho in the afternoon. In the evening the of doing Thakorji’s darshan and giving darshan celebration assembly included a traditional dance to devotees in the morning and evenings. During by schoolchildren of BAPS Vidyamandir and a these times youths and devotees rejoiced before skit by youths from the Youth Training Centre. Swamishri by performing traditional dances and A traditional dance was performed by children skits. During the day Swamishri also attended to on the bhajan ‘Swamiji to Mahãpratãpi…’ while some letters from devotees. Swamishri rang a bell and waved the BAPS flag 5, Wednesday; Yogi Jayanti Celebration from Akshar Jharukho. Senior sadhus honoured Swamishri gave darshan to sadhus and Swamishri with garlands and a shawl of flowers. devotees from Akshar Jharukho (cabin) in the Then Swamishri blessed all, saying, “By the grace morning. He inaugurated a new Gujarati print of Shastriji Maharaj you have all come here with publication, ‘Ek Divya Jivan Gatha’ (The Life enthusiasm to celebrate this festival. In the time Story of Bhagwan Swaminarayan) by Aksharjivan of Shastriji Maharaj no one had imagined that our Swami, published by Swaminarayan Aksharpith. Satsang would grow to such proportions. At that In the evening the 122nd birthday celebration time Yogiji Maharaj, Nirgun Swami and Shastriji of Yogiji Maharaj (Yogi Jayanti) was celebrated Maharaj were actively engaged in inspiring in the presence of Swamishri and senior satsang. Their talks were full of energy and joy. sadhus. The celebration included an audio The devotees, too, were spiritually charged and speech and kirtan of Yogiji Maharaj, a skit excited…” Thereafter, Pujya Viveksagar Swami showing Yogiji Maharaj’s meeting with Colonial narrated the historic appointment of Swamishri Bhatia at Faizabad Station, kirtan by Pujya as President at Ambli Vali Pol. Ghanshyamcharan Swami and senior sadhus 16, Sunday honouring Swamishri with garlands. With Swamishri inaugurated a print publication, requests from all, Swamishri demonstrated how Satsang Vihar, Part 2, by Harichintan Swami, Yogiji Maharaj gave his patent pat to devotees. published by Swaminarayan Aksharpith. u 13, Thursday; 63rd Pramukh Varni Din Celebration (Translation of excerpts from Swamishri’s daily report in Gujarati) Swamishri gave darshan to all from Akshar

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 45 Living with Swamishri June 2013, Sarangpur

MEASURE OF GOOD HEALTH tendant sadhu placed a beautiful garland around 4 June, Sarangpur Swamishri. Swamishri tried to take out the Swamishri’s blood pressure and pulse were garland. Narayancharan Swami requested Swa- measured after he woke up in the morning. Yo- mishri, “You have to keep the garland around gvivek Swami asked Swamishri whether he was your neck.” Swamishri responded, “The garland fine. Swamishri said yes. Hariprakash Swami en- should be placed on the murti of Yogiji Maha- quired further, “Are you absolutely fine?” Swa- raj.” The attendant sadhu clarified, “It has been mishri replied, “I am fine because of katha-varta offered to Yogiji Maharaj and now that sancti- and bhajan.” fied garland is around your neck.” Swamishri The core of Gunatit gurus lives lies in lis- remained quiet. tening to or speaking about the glory of Shriji Swamishri’s words reflected his deep feelings Maharaj and in remembering him by singing his of reverence and honour for Yogiji Maharaj. name. On learning that the garland placed on him had been offered to his guru’s murti Swamishri GURU BHAKTI became satisfied. u 5 June, Sarangpur (Translation of excerpts from Swamishri’s daily report in Gujarati) It was Yogi Jayanti Celebration. Prior to Swa- mishri’s darshan from Akshar Jharukho the at-

46 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 BAPS Uttarakhand Flood Relief, India June-July 2013

THE DISASTER dia (BAPS) provided immediate relief to those India’s monsoon moved across the northern affected by the floods and landslides. Inspired by part of the country with record speed this year Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS Swaminarayan as raging rivers, flanked by steep-sided and de- Akshardham in New Delhi coordinated and ex- forested valleys in the foothills of the Himala- ecuted the relief efforts in Uttarakhand with the yas, washed away homes and vehicles. Pilgrims support of BAPS centres in India and its part- who were travelling to or from pilgrimage plac- ner BAPS Charities. Dr. JM Dave, Jayesh Ga- es in the Uttarakhand region were among those dhia, Jaisukh Zala and Dr. Yogesh Bambharoliya killed or left stranded. Uttaranchal state, which served as the main BAPS Relief Coordinators has a population of almost 10 million people, for coordination and execution of BAPS relief received unprecedented rainfall in mid-June, efforts in Uttarakhand, India. causing rivers to burst their banks. The heavi- Immediately, food, blankets and other emer- est rains in the last 88 years resulted in large gency supplies were sent from Swaminarayan flashfloods and massive landslides. Entire vil- Akshardham in New Delhi to Uttarakhand for lages and settlements were obliterated. A total distribution to the victims. Thereafter, BAPS en- of 4,200 villages were gaged in relief efforts affected. This was In- as follows. dia’s worst natural dis- aster since the tsunami SURVEY, ORGANIZA- in 2004. TION & ASSISTANCE BAPS volunteers BAPS PROVIDES IM- surveyed the impact MEDIATE SUPPLIES of the floods and In the wake of this landslides and held tragedy, BAPS Swami- extensive meetings narayan Sanstha in In- with local officials,

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 47 and 50 tons of household supplies. Despite the difficult terrains and the danger of landslides, BAPS volunteers and partners personally visited villages to distribute food rations and household supplies in over 30 villages. 1,200 tarpaulins, 230 tents and 14,250 blankets were provided for the homeless and needy. Thus, the kits met the immediate food, shelter and household needs of the afflicted. Food Kits: BAPS packed and distributed 8,500 kits totalling over 60 tons, each with 24 food items: wheat flour, rice, pulses (mung dal, chana, chana dal, roasted chana), water bottle, oil and ghee (sarsav oil, cooking oil and ghee), sugar, jaggery, snacks (biscuits, aloo bhajiya, mix namkeen, kurkure, toasted bread), spice (chilli powder, turmeric powder, Swamishri looks at the items of the relief kit dhana-jiru powder, mustard seeds), salt, tea, NGOs and other organizations. BAPS volun- milk powder. teers worked with local NGOs like Parmarth Household Kits: BAPS pro­vi­ded, organ- Niketan in Rishikesh, helping to efficiently ized and distributed 50 tons of 38 relief items: organize stocking of relief materials, creating blankets, flashlights, batteries, candles, solar inventory systems, developing work flow sys- lanterns, bed sheets, match sticks, steel plates, tems and establishing guidelines for relief aid. steel glasses, steel bowls (small), steel spoons, BAPS volunteers also assisted other organiza- steel pots, steel storage bins, sieve, tongs, primus tions in transporting, stocking and packing of stoves, gas cylinders, raincoats, umbrellas, shoes, various relief materials. slippers, towels, napkins, toothbrushes, tooth- pastes, tongue cleaners, soaps, combs, mirrors SOURCING, TRANSPORTING & DISTRIBUT- (small), saris, plastic bags, carton boxes, mos- ING RELIEF KITS AND SUPPLIES quito repellants. Over 640 BAPS volunteers in New Delhi, Provided Medical Relief & Counsel- Ahmedabad and Uttarakhand worked tirelessly ling: Volunteer doctors of BAPS conducted to source, pack, transport, organize and distrib- medical camps, offered medical counselling ute over 8,500 kits including 60 tons of food and treated over 200 victims. In addition, SUMMARY OF BAPS RELIEF AID 30 villages (Dists: Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi, Guptakashi, Bageshwar, Villages Reached Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tharali, Chinyalisaur, Joshimath, Ukhimath). Relief Provided 2,140 families. Over 200 patients treated in BAPS medical camps; medical kits Medical Relief provided to 25 villages. Food Kits Supplied 8,500 kits totalling 60 tons of 24 food items, packed and distributed. Household Kits Distributed Total of 50 tons of 38 relief items provided and distributed. Shelters Provided 1,200 tarpaulins and 230 tents provided for the homeless.

48 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 BAPS volunteers preparing food kits at Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad

BAPS provided and distributed medicines and their relief efforts. Mr Sandeep Panwar, Prad- first aid materials to needy patients, families, han of Gram Panchayat – Athali, Uttarakandh, medical personnel in affected villages and oth- said, “(BAPS Volunteers) coming to our village er organizations. and going to each and every house and under- BAPS Relief Team: 643 Dedicated Volunteers standing our necessities was very vital for us. We Procurement, Packing and Transport: 600 truly appreciate their kind effort.” Part-Time Volunteers. Logistics & Distribution: 23 Full-Time Vol- Highlighting the efforts by BAPS relief vol- unteers. unteers, Mr. Satyendra Ukashi, relief volunteer Administration & Support: 20 Full-Time Vol- of Uttarkashi’s Vishwanath Sanskrit Mahavidy- unteers. al, said, “(We were) highly impressed by BAPS volunteers’ level of detailing in terms of execu- APPRECIATION tion, practical decision-making and documenta- “We are happy that BAPS and its volunteers tion.” are here, working with us for the Uttarakhand relief. By them participating, our organization RELIEF PARTNERS AND SUPPORT is benefiting and is being guided by their experi- ORGANIZATIONS ence, discipline and efficiency.” BAPS Charities, North America; BAPS Char- - H.H. Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Maharaj, ities, UK; Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, Uttara- President and Spiritual Head of Parmarth khand; Government of India; Indo-Tibetan Bor- Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh, India der Police, Uttarkashi; Government of Gujarat; Gadhwal Maitra Sabha and SAMARTH, New Village heads, called ‘Pradhans’, were ex- Delhi. u tremely appreciative of BAPS Volunteers’ genu- ine efforts and spirit of service while conducting

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 49 S News BAP

India YUVAK-YUVATI SHIBIR, 8-10 June 2013, Sankari

performed in the afternoon. Invited dignitaries then swept the road in front of the main chariot before pulling it for a short distance, joined by devotees and wellwishers. In the presence of Pujya Mahant Swami, 915 The grand parade featured the BAPS Kolkata yuvaks and yuvatis from the regions of Sankari, Youth ‘Scottish Pipes’ Marching Band, children Bardoli and Ukai participated in a shibir based dressed as famous devotees of the past, women in on the theme ‘Live for BAPS’. The youths traditional costumes and a float carrying a minia- were guided and inspired through speeches ture yagna pit. Thousands of onlookers throughout by Mahant Swami and other learned and ex- the route enjoyed the delightful procession, which perienced sadhus. Question-answer sessions, returned to the mandir and concluded at 7.00 p.m. video shows and discussions provided further clarification of the major topics. The youths BAL-BALIKA SHIBIR: ‘UTTISHTHA’ – AWAKE were also given career guidance by an experi- FOR SELF-IMPROVEMENT enced civil servant, Shri Jagdishbhai Bardiya. 28 July 2013, New Delhi At the end of the shibir the youths undertook pledges to live by the wishes of Bhagwan Swa- minarayan and guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj. All the youths were given malas which had been sanctified by Swamishri in Sarangpur.

RATH YATRA CELEBRATION 10 July 2013, Kolkata Continuing an annual tradition, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Kolkata, held a col- Over 250 boys and girls from the National ourful Rath Yatra celebration on 10 July 2013. Capital Territory and its surrounding areas par- Outside the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir ticipated in a special one-day shibir at the BAPS on Chakraberia Road, Vedic pujan rituals of the Swaminarayan Research Institute, Swaminaray- murtis of Shri Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Shri an Akshardham, New Delhi, on 28 July. The Jagannathji, Subhadraji and Balbhadraji were shibir was graced by Pujya Swayamprakashdas

50 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 Swami (Doctor Swami). Based on the theme ‘Ut- great taste – plan meals, use shopping lists and tishtha’ or ‘Awake’ the shibir hoped to motivate avoid impulse buys. EAT ORGANIC and locally the children to focus on self-improvement in Sat- grown foods and help reduce the clearing of for- sang, sanskars and studies. Along with interest- ests for agricultural land. ing workshops, the shibir included games, skits, Other recent BAPS environment projects video shows and engaging talks by sadhus. Activ- include observing Earth Hour and recycling ity notebooks encouraged the children to discuss clothes for Climate Week. the following topics: 1. The right age for im- provement, 2. Fruits of improvement, 3. Where ‘BECOME ADARSH’, PERSONAL SATSANG can I improve? 4. Hurdles in improvement, DEVELOPMENT: PHASE ONE 5. for improvement and 6. Satsang – 20-30 June 2013, UK & Europe The best way for 100% improvement. Children were also honoured to be addressed by Pujya Doctor Swami, who in his captivating style gave them unparalleled guidance in becom- ing better sons and daughters, siblings, students, and citizens.

UK & Europe CELEBRATING WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY The first phase of the year-long spiritual devel- 5 June 2013, London opment programme for youths in the UK, entitled Every year, 5 June is celebrated by millions ‘Become Adarsh’, was attended by more than 700 internationally as World Environment Day participants during June 2013. In the presence of (WED). Pujya Mahant Swami and Anandswarup Swami, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha celebrated youths from London and the Home Counties World Environment Day in the UK with a gathered at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, presentation supporting this year’s theme, London, on 22 June 2013 to complete the first ‘Think.Eat.Save: Reduce Your Food Print’, and leg of their ‘Become Adarsh’ journey. building upon the UN Secretary-General’s Zero Mahant Swami encouraged all participants to Hunger Challenge. draw inspiration from Pramukh Swami Maharaj The presentation was displayed at BAPS Shri as the highest ideal and to introspect on one’s Swaminarayan Mandir, London, throughout the spiritual progress. week. It comprised a series of eye-opening facts Following the traditional opening with the about food wastage and practical tips on safely lighting of divas, youths embarked upon their cutting back. assessment with a written paper which probed To help reduce wastage and lessen the burden knowledge of daily rituals (arti, thal, prarthana on global resources, devotees and visitors were and cheshta). The written element was followed encouraged to make a number of small but by an opportunity for the participants to recite important lifestyle changes. These included: aspects of these daily rituals, which, in addition DON’T buy more food than you really need. to recollection, tested correct pronunciation, FREEZE fresh produce and leftovers. GROW an melody and meaning. organic garden. GET SMART about less waste, Youths from centres based in the Midlands

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 51 and north England completed their first phase a are performing our religious duties. He elabo- week later in Leicester and Manchester. rated upon the need to strive for their blessings The feedback from participants was highly and to introspect continuously while perform- encouraging with many expressing the positive ing seva. impact on their lives. Specifically, youths shared Breakout sessions for departments and man- how much more they now enjoy their daily ritu- dals were held to enable karyakars to discuss key als, especially with an enhanced understanding issues that relate to their more specific activities. of the various verses from the materials provid- In the closing session Anandswarup Swami ed in the project pack. spoke about Swamishri’s wishes for karyakars, focusing specifically on developing one’s per- ‘AKSHARNA JHARUKHETHI’ NATIONAL sonal satsang. Mahant Swami then concluded KARYAKAR SHIBIR the shibir with an enlightening address on un- 23 June 2013, London derstanding the importance of seva and remain- ing humble while performing it. The positive spiritual messages throughout the day enthused and guided all the karyakars towards earnestly doing their best.

Africa SATSANG WINTER CAMP 23-27 July 2013, Africa & Middle East In the presence of Pujya Mahant Swami and other sadhus from India, more than 1,100 kar- yakars from the UK and Europe attended the National Karyakar Shibir at BAPS Shri Swami- narayan Mandir, London. The theme of the shibir was ‘Aksharna Jharukhethi’, drawing references from what Swamishri sees from the balcony as sadhus and devotees gather for his darshan. The shibir thus focused on the spiritual concepts of antardrashti From 23 to 27 July 2013, over 100 kishores (introspection), asmita (pride) and samarpan attended a winter camp held in Mombasa. The (sacrifice). theme of the camp was ‘Agna, Upasana, Sadbhav Some of the experiences with Swamishri and Paksh’. from Sarangpur were shared via a video pres- Centered on this concept, kishores learnt entation in the opening session, which also in- various ways to strengthen their satsang and bal- cluded a discourse from Jnanpriya Swami who ance their spiritual, cultural and personal lives. spoke about keeping Bhagwan Swaminarayan In addition, kishores participated in a number of and Swamishri at the forefront of one’s thoughts team building activities and research on Hindu- during one’s seva. ism. Practical workshops on cooking and special Mahant Swami reflected upon whom we programmes including beach activities and visit- have attained (God and guru) and for whom we ing sacred places of Yogiji Maharaj were also or-

52 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 ganized. Personal sessions and group discussions age located in the Yombo Vituka area to distrib- with sadhus were also very helpful to kishores. ute mattresses and food items to the orphans. This was the first such winter camp organized by The orphans were fasting for the holy month of BAPS in Africa specifically for kishores. Ramadan, thus requiring a wider variety of foods.

‘SWAMI MARA, HU SWAMI NO’ SHIBIR 7 June 2013, Kisumu, Kenya Asia-Pacific About 110 boys and girls from the western BAPS EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR Kenyan cities of Eldoret, Kakamega and Kisumu 22 June 2013, Adelaide gathered at Kisumu mandir for an active and en- Over 70 Gujarati students currently studying gaging shibir centred on the theme: ‘Swami Mara, in high school and 190 parents attended an edu- Hu Swami No’ – ‘Swami Is Mine, I am His’. cation seminar held by BAPS at Klemzig Primary The shibir was organized in three sessions. School, Adelaide. The primary aim of the semi- The first session focused on guru Pramukh Swa- nar was to disseminate information on second- mi Maharaj’s saintliness and virtues. The second ary education. The Education Seminar featured session focused on how the power of our guru’s a presentation and talks on the Australian educa- virtues have brought about amazing transforma- tion system by an experienced teacher, a parent tions of lives. The final session explored how we and a panel discussion involving successful pro- may please our guru and follow his wishes. All fessionals. The opening presentation on the Aus- three sessions included instructive speeches, in- tralian education system dispelled common mis- teractive games, questions-answer sessions, inter- conceptions that parents and students had and esting discussions, videos and traditional dances. provided a perspective on how they could better select their subjects and apply for university. BAPS MEDICAL CHECK-UP CAMP The panel discussion provided different per- 23 June 2013, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania spectives regarding parental expectations, stu- dent expectations and the common distracting factors in education. It further guided parents and students on effective study balance, time management, career opportunities and the im- portance of satsang during school. Representatives from leading universities in the state, The University of Adelaide and Flin- ders University were present to answer questions about enrolment, university life and entrance Over 250 people benefited from the free med- requirements. Representatives from the South ical check-up camp organized by BAPS. Among Australian Education Board also gave valuable the screening tests provided were: blood sugar, insights to students and parents. BMI, blood pressure, eye test and bone density. BAL-BALIKA SHIBIR: ‘RAJIPO’ BAPS CHARITIES FOOD DRIVE 22 June 2013, Auckland 4 August 2013, Dar-es-salaam Around 100 balaks and balikas participated BAPS Charities volunteers visited the Multi- in BAPS New Zealand’s first ever National Bal- ple Development Foundation Sunnat Orphan- Balika Shibir. Aged between 6 and 13, children

September-October 2013 u Swaminarayan Bliss 53 from the Auckland area and Wellington attend- portunity to help the environment and recon- ed the shibir held in the presence of Jnanpurush nect with nature. The event is organized under Swami and Adarshmuni Swami. This year’s shi- the joint auspices of Planet Ark and the City bir was based on the theme of ‘Rajipo’. During Council of Paramatta. the shibir children got to learn about what rajipo The theme of this year’s National Tree Day is and how one can earn Swamishri’s rajipo. was “Get Outside and Grow…” to help increase biodiversity and provide habitat for wildlife in BAPS SYDNEY PARTICIPATES IN PLANET the Baronbali Street Reserve in Dundas. ARK’S NATIONAL TREE DAY 2013 15 yuvaks and 9 yuvatis participated in the 28 July 2013, Sydney event on behalf of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Volunteers from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sydney, and assisted in planting native Mandir, Sydney, took part in the National Tree plant species over an area spanning 200 square Day, which provides all Australians with an op metres. u (Contd. from pg. 44) “I found this a quite well-studied “This commentary’s uniqueness work containing both compara- is in its extraordinary quality. tive and critical accounts. It pro- Truly each word of this com- vides word by word meaning, mentary presents and highlights creates doubt and establishes a treasure of Vedic principles an opposition, and constitutes which are not seen earlier. This and proliferates Vedantic principles giving them commentary offers new rendering of the eternal credibility and reflecting the intellectual apti- Vedic principles. It takes the individual in the Ve- tude of its commentator. The gamut covered is danta philosophy to a greater height. An in-depth very vast, and despite that, the commentator has study of this commentary will certainly take us to neither missed an important point nor dwelt on a higher altitude of the Vedanta world. It convinc- any superfluously.” ingly explains and establishes the eternal truth of - Prof. Madan Mohan Agrawal, the Vedic philosophy revealed by Bhagwan Shri Head, Dept. of Sanskrit, Chairman, Swaminarayan. It is an unbiased work and has BRS(Arts) and Dean, Faculty of Arts, not been written against any other tradition.” Delhi University - Dr N. Radhakrishna Bhat, Head, Dept. of Sanskrit, Karnataka State Open University, Mysore Correction: In the July-August 2013 edition of Swaminarayan Bliss the murti-pratishtha of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Selvas, was performed in the month of Vaishakh instead of as mentioned on page 39.

54 Swaminarayan Bliss u September-October 2013 New Swaminarayan Aksharpith Publications For Teenagers and Youths TRUTH from Under a Tree by Sadhu Snehmunidas Truth from Under a Tree explores the profound personality of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in context to the Vachanamrut – a sacred text containing his spiritual discourses. The spiritual and practical aspects from Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s teachings have been highlighted in an appealing style for teenagers and youths. Some of the relevant features for all spiritual seekers of Truth are good company, scriptural knowledge, sadhanas, perfect mentorship and requisites to spiritual realization. The book is spiritually enriching and enlightening. HINDUISM Beliefs & Impressions by Sadhu Vivekjivandas The plurality in Hinduism has often been compared to a bouquet of flowers and a salad bowl. The discrete contents of a bouquet or salad bowl combine together to form a single product. Similarly, the multiplicity of beliefs, practices, sampradayas, etc. all blend to produce a single, fascinating spiritual canvas called Hinduism. Hinduism, Beliefs and Impressions is a pocket-size publication on the core beliefs of Hindus and impressions of foreign scholars and historians about India and Hinduism.

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Translated by Sadhu Brahmasetudas Part 2 Satsang Vihar, Part 2, is for children. The beautiful stories from Hin- duism and Satsang history convey the principles of murti-puja and av- atarvad, the childhood of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the travels of Nilkanth Varni. Also, stories from the life of our guru parampara por- tray their inspiring lives and teachings. The book contains two sections: upasana and agna. The illustrations on every page make the stories in- teresting to read and understand. Satsang Vihar, Part 2, inspires all chil- dren with values and faith in God. Available at all BAPS bookstores

55 55 “Swaminarayan Bliss”, September-October 2013. Published on 5/3/13 Posted at Ahmedabad, P.S.O.5th on Bi-Monthly, RNI-33411/79

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On 9 July 2013, Pramukh Swami Maharaj blesses the first class of sadhus enrolled in the advanced Sanskrit course at the Mahavidyalaya in Sarangpur

INAUGURATION OF ‘BAPS SWAMINARAYAN SANSKRIT MAHAVIDYALAYA’ 4 August 2013, Sarangpur Bhagwan Swaminarayan encouraged his param- Sarangpur in affiliation with Shri Somnath University, hansas to study Sanskrit and the Hindu shastras. This Veraval. On 4 August 2013, the vice-chancellor of tradition has been continued by his Gunatit guru Somnath Sanskrit University, Shri V. Kutumb Shastriji, parampara. In 1961, Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj formally announced the affiliation in the presence of established the BAPS Sanstha’s first Sanskrit study in- invited dignitaries. stitute, ‘Akshar-Purushottam (Swaminarayan) Sanskrit Informing the gathering of the University’s regula- Pathshala’, in Mumbai. Thereafter, in 1973 Pragat tions and procedures, university registrar, Shri Dash- Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj founded rathbhai Jadav, said, “This is the world’s first univer- the ‘Yagnapurush Sanskrit Vidyalaya’ in Sarangpur. sity to offer the study of Swaminarayan Vedanta.” Through both these institutes, BAPS sadhus have ex- celled in the study of Sanskrit and Hindu shastras. So far, 12 sadhus who have graduated from these two institutes have acquired PhD degrees. Of particular note are the achievements of Bhadreshdas Swami who has written the ‘Shri Swaminarayan Bhashyam’ based on the Prasthantreyi and convincingly elucidated Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Akshar-Purushottam philosophy. Also, Shrutiprakashdas Swami has composed the voluminous ‘Akshar-Purushottam Mahatmaya’ comprising of 19,103 Sanskrit shlokas and fulfilled the wish of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj. Shri V. Kutumb Shastriji, Vice-chancellor of Somnath To further facilitate the in-depth study of Sanskrit Sanskrit University, inaugurates the ‘BAPS Swaminarayan to Shastri and Acharya levels the ‘BAPS Swaminarayan Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya’ and announces its affiliation with Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya’ has been established in Shri Somnath University, Veraval

Printed and Published by Sadhu Swayamprakashdas on behalf of Swaminarayan Aksharpith and Printed at Swaminarayan Mudran Mandir, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004 and Published from Swaminarayan Aksharpith, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004. Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas. 56