Vicharasethu – August – 2012 2

Geeta Tattva Sameeksha 2012 : Poojya Swamiji arriving at the venue

Devotional pursuit is easy and exhilarating, provided you understand what constitutes true devotion. As the fondness for the Lord grows, you should feel dispassion (viraktiÅ) towards the worldly allurements. When both bhaktiÅ and viraktiÅ grace the heart, experience of the Supreme (bhagavat-prabodhaÅ) will dawn irresistibly. If devotion does not bestow such realization, it is due to the lack of complementary qualities like viveka (truthful discrimination) and vair¡gya (dispassion). – Swamiji

Contents Gurupoor¸im¡ Message

Make Brahmavidy¡ Your Supreme Treasure 03 Science of Inner Redemption – 39

Mystery of Creation 08

Spiritual S¡dhan¡ in a Nutshell

– Swami Nirviseshananda Tirtha 18

Gurupoor¸im¡ & Service in Gurusannidhi – Sooraj 24

Gurupoor¸im¡ in other Centres – Devotees 28 Back to Eternity Shashi Gupta 32 News & Notes 33

Narayanashrama Tapovanam Venginissery, P.O. Ammadam, B.O. Paralam,Thrissur. Kerala 680 563, India. Tel. (0487) 2277963/2278302/2278363 email: [email protected] Website: http://www.SwamiBhoomanandaTirtha.org

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 3

Make Brahmavidy¡ Your Supreme Treasure

[Essence of Poojya Swamiji’s Gurupoor¸im¡ Message sent out to different Centres in India and abroad.]

Dear and blessed devotees, disciples and seekers:

HariÅ Om Tat Sat. Jai Guru. The sacred Gurupoor¸im¡ has come again. In the Indian cultural almanac, this is the most holy, austere and benedictory day. There is nothing to compare with its holy and auspicious nature.

Our country has a great cultural treasure. It goes back to pre-historic times. The sacred literature our ancient thinkers evolved has been preserved ever since. The eternal Vedas are there before us, with their undimmed glory and significance.

Vedas have 4 sections: Samhit¡s, consisting of hymns in honour of higher powers. The next section called br¡hma¸as contains rituals and ceremonies. From there is the transition into the 3rd phase consisting of ¡ra¸yakas – relating to a contemplative life, concomitant with forest environment. Finally we have the Upanishads, marking the culmination of the entire Vedic life in exclusive pursuit of knowledge of the supreme Reality.

In our eternal cultural treasure, the Upanishads have great significance. Throughout the Vedic texts, param¡tma-tattva (the truth of the supreme Self) is clearly exposed in its final form and purpose. But these thoughts are lying scattered and distributed in many places. They were collected and presented by Vy¡sadeva, like beads in a garland. This string is called Brahmas£tras, consisting of nearly 545 aphoristic statements, cryptic and profound.

Then we have the Bhagavadgeet¡, which has been widely read the world over. Bhagavadgeet¡ forms part of Mah¡bh¡ratam, authored by

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Vy¡sadeva himself. In this epic text, consisting of 1,25,000 verses, Bhagavadgeet¡ has an extremely important place. It is an enlightening commentary by Krishna on the Upanishads, in the form of a dialogue.

These three – the Upanishads, the Brahmas£tras and the Bhagavadgeet¡ – together are called prasth¡na-trayam. It is an eternal record of the cultural treasure of our country. It delineates values, ideals and disciplines to refine and enrich our life, bestowing elevation, expansion and enlightenment. Prasth¡na-trayam is clearly before us in the form of writing, proclaiming its veracity, relevance or benefit. We cannot doubt its authenticity.

Everyone of you should be proud that generation after generation, your predecessors have successfully pursued, imbibed, and disseminated this treasure effectively and successfully. They did not have printing and publishing technology as we have now – and yet, the texts were preserved intact.

It is amazing indeed that our ancestors could preserve such a splendid treasure for countless millennia only through the power of memory and systematic recitation. Whoever came to know of this treasure found the message so relevant and enriching, that they strove to imbibe it and impart it to others. Every generation did it unfailingly, and you, of this generation, also must have the fondness, proper evaluation, and sense of belonging to do what your predecessors have done from times immemorial. Everyone of you should think of this great legacy and do whatever is necessary to preserve and perpetuate this inestimable treasure for the welfare of humanity.

The activities and mission of Narayanashrama Tapovanam have to be evaluated in this background.

I have been disseminating Brahmavidy¡ for 56 years as an ascetic, with austere dedication. Obviously, it is not a short period. I have been a

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‘Moving University’, explaining to people what Brahmavidy¡ is – its content, message and relevance.

Jamshedpur was the first place I visited to conduct the Jµ¡na Yajµa in English. When I was invited there, some listeners felt inspired and wanted to get initiated into spiritual s¡dhan¡. Perhaps they did not know that the deekÀ¡ I would give was into Brahmavidy¡, the core of our spiritual culture.

I asked those Brahmavidy¡ initiates to assemble in one of their houses every week and have satsang. I gave them a programme for the purpose, in which some of the important Bhagavadgeet¡ verses featured. Very soon, such Brahmavidy¡ Centres came up in many other cities. These centres have become the backbone of my disseminational life.

I would like you to understand the meaning of the word ‘Brahmavidy¡’. In Bhagavadgeet¡, at the end of every chapter, you will find the words “brahmavidy¡y¡Æ yoga¿¡stre”. This clearly reveals that the whole of Bhagavadgeet¡ discusses and delineates Brahmavidy¡ alone.

‘Brahmavidy¡’ emphasizes the supreme quality and refinement as well as the insight called sanny¡sa, renunciation. The entire Bhagavadgeet¡ discusses renunciation and that alone. True renunciation results from the knowledge of Brahman, the supreme Truth. It is not just a physical renunciation, which too has its unique place. Actual renunciation is of possessiveness, desires and ego. Renunciation will make the mind free of desires, liberating it from their clutches.

The 18th chapter of Bhagavadgeet¡ commences with an enquiry from Arjuna, wanting to know the principle or truth about ty¡ga and sanny¡sa. My dear souls, I would like you to read Bhagavadgeet¡. I am setting a goal for you: before the next Gurupoor¸im¡ everyone of you must have sufficiently read Bhagavadgeet¡. You should particularly learn to recite it with correct pronunciation. Call your family members

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and let them at least hear the great holy dialogue. Let the words and phrases fall on their eardrums and sink into their hearts.

The message of Bhagavadgeet¡ is that of ty¡ga and sanny¡sa. Don’t miss it. You can have these embellishments only through spiritual enlightenment. Krishna was not a sanny¡sin, nor was Arjuna. But the discussion in Kurukshetra was only on renunciation. Krishna told Arjuna: “Renounce your ego, renounce your possessiveness, renounce your desires. Be liberated, be free, be enlightened and then fight the war. Then the war will be a holy pilgrimage for you”. Remember this cardinal message of Bhagavadgeet¡.

Let Bhagavadgeet¡ become part and parcel of you and your family. Now and then, discuss it with your friends and well-wishers. Whenever you get an opportunity, tell the youngsters about it.

This year, as usual, we will have our holy assembly in the Ashram. The day will be observed in many of our Centres also. I would like everyone of you to participate in this important function either in the Ashram or in the other places. Bring your friends and well-wishers along with you. Tell them: “We are going for the Gurupoor¸im¡ function. Please come with us. It is greatly benedictory, much more than going to a temple for worship or a holy river for bath. Come and have a dip in the Brahmavidy¡ treasure of the land.” Invite them heartily.

My fond blessings for all of you. I wish you all more and more of spiritual involvement, dedication and enlightenment. May there be good, devoted, dedicated children in the land, who will love the family, have faith in God, and will also be able to make valuable contributions to the society. We should also have some children, who will be devoted to Brahmavidy¡, its pursuit and dissemination.

— Swamiji

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Brahmavit ¡pnoti param – One who realizes Brahman, attains the Supreme. Remember this declaration of the sacred Upanishads. Human life will find its true elevation and fulfillment only by gaining spiritual wisdom – the knowledge of the Self, the ‘Subject’ in you, which is the substratum of the entire universe. Let this truth ring in your mind and inspire your heart ever and ever.

— Swamiji

* * *

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Science of Inner Redemption – 39 (Series on Yoga-v¡siÀ¶ha, Nirv¡¸a-prakara¸a)

Mystery of Creation

Practising the truth of Oneness

Sage VasiÀ¶ha said: BEÚi…k¥…P…x……¶™……∫…: |……h……x……∆ ¥…±…™…∫i…l…… * ®…x……‰ ¥… x…O…Ω˛∂S…‰ i… ®……‰I…∂…§n˘…l…«∫…∆O…Ω˛: ** (6p.69.27)

Intense practice of ‘the truth of absolute Oneness’ (i), leading the breathing process to near-still absorption (ii), and restraining fully the mind process (iii) – these are indeed the epitome of mokÀa, liberation.

This is one of the rare verses uttered by VasiÀ¶hadeva, elucidating the entire spiritual s¡dhan¡. The first proposition the Sage delineates is that of activating and enlightening the intelligence with the singular nature of the ultimate Truth. In fact, Ka¶hopanishad (2.3.10) too emphasizes the supreme state as that, wherein all the organs of perception, outer and inner, remain still, resting on their own source within.

Practise the principle and truth of Oneness, considering it to be the Supreme. Pursue Oneness in the mind as well as intelligence. Do not swing or swerve from it any time, due to any attraction or repulsion. The Self alone is. The Self alone is. It is absolute, changeless and Nothing else is or omnipresent. Nothing else is or can ever be. can ever be. Be Be riveted to this fact. Get imbued with it. riveted to this fact. Get imbued with it. Dissolve your mind and intelligence into it.

When inner infusion of oneness takes over

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intelligence and the mind alike, all vagaries vanish. The seeker then reaches a state of inner fullness and abundance. This will mark the finale of spiritual s¡dhan¡, the much-desired siddhi or fruition!

Pr¡¸¡n¡m vilayaÅ (breath-regulation) is the second proposition. Breathing and mind function are closely inter-allied. When breath slows down, thought process also does. This comes under the yogic path.

Mano-vinigrahaÅ indicates restraining the mind. Do not entertain mind’s craftiness and the emotional assault. Let all that emerge from the mind also subside in it. No product of the mind has an independent prevalence. Since everything subsides after emergence, we have nothing to do with it. The process will lead you to where you want to reach.

But this process of regulating the mind is abstruse to ordinary people, and often results in detestable physical control and indulgences, leading to even deleterious and abominable practices (v¡m¡c¡ra). Of the three, eka-tattva-ghan¡bhy¡saÅ – contemplation on the truth of Oneness – is what the Sage extols and allows.

Making desires extinct

Sage VasiÀ¶ha continued: S…‰i……‰ Ω˛ ¥……∫…x……®……j…∆ i…n¶……¥…‰ {…Æ∆˙ {…n˘®…¬ * i…k¥…∆ ∫…∆{…ti…‰ Y……x…∆ Y……x…®……Ω÷˛Ã¥…S……Æ˙h…®…¬ ** (6p.69.38)

Mind is nothing but desires. When desires, and hence the mind, become extinct, the supreme abode is gained. The essence or absoluteness in the nature of true knowledge is accomplished. Truthful introspection is indeed spiritual wisdom.

True spiritual s¡dhan¡ is qualitative. It is a process of inner refinement and sublimation. It calls for right understanding of the mind and its working.

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To desire is to make the mind outward, If desire disturbs instantly bringing multiple tensions and the mind and makes it restless discontent. Why give vent to this adversity at and discontent, is all? If desire disturbs the mind and makes it it worth restless and discontent, is it worth courting, courting? encouraging and reinforcing? This kind of deep introspection itself is sufficient to win over the habit of desiring.

When desires dwindle and become extinct, Consciousness irresistibly shines with its pristine lustre. The whole pursuit is one of knowledge. And the attainment also is pure knowledge, full and ecstatic. ®…x…∫…: ∫{…xn˘x…∆ |……h…: |……h…∫™… ∫{…xn˘x…∆ ®…x…: * Bi……Ë ¥…Ω˛Æ˙i……‰ x…i™…®…x™……‰x™…∆ Æ˙l…∫……Æ˙l…“ ** BEÚi…k¥…P…x……¶™……∫……SUÙ…xi…∆ ∂……®™…i™…±…∆ ®…x…: * i…±±…“x…i¥……i∫¥…¶……¥…∫™… i…‰x… |……h……‰% {… ∂……®™… i… ** S…k…‰ ∂……xi…‰ ∂……®™…i…“™…∆ ∫…∆∫……Æ˙®…ﬁM…i…ﬁŒπh…EÚ… * V…Æ˙…®…÷{…M…i…‰ ®…‰P…‰ ®… Ω˛EÚ… i…x®…™…“ ™…l…… ** ¥…M… ±…i……i®…{…n∆˘ ¥…M…±…x®…x…: ∫…÷¶…M… ∫…k¥… ®…i…“Ω˛ Ω˛ EÚl™…i…‰ * x… {…÷x…Æ‰˙ i… EÚ±……®… ±…x…∆ {…n∆˘ EÚx…EÚi…… ®…¥… i……©…®…÷{……M…i…®…¬ ** (6p.69.46,48,55,61)

Pr¡¸a is pulsation of the mind. And mind is but pr¡¸a’s pulsation. They always go together, one being the chariot while the other the charioteer, and vice versa.

By practising the singular Truth, mind is led to stillness and absorption. When the mind thus dissolves, pr¡¸a, the breathing process, also becomes quiet.

When the mind rests quietly in itself, the world-mirage dissolves. It is like the darkness of the cloud disappearing (in Autumn), when

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the water-droplets are gone.

When the differences displayed by the three ego-centric states of wakefulness, sleep and dream, along with their cause, the mind, fall, what survives is sattva, the pure essence of sentience, which will not contract any blemish or stain, just as copper alloyed with gold.

The physical or elemental (p¡µca-bhautika) body is animated and activated by Consciousness, which is different from matter and energy. The seeker has to be discreet and sharp to understand this fact and remain anchored in it. There is no existence besides the singular Consciousness. This singular Consciousness alone makes all the jugglery of mentation (mind), intellection (intellect) and assertion (ego). In fact, there are no independent substances or entities like mind, intelligence and ego.

On the strength of this understanding of Oneness, On the strength of the sublimity and exclusiveness it brings about, this understanding desire itself becomes fallacious, useless and of Oneness, desire itself becomes irrelevant. Desire what, for whom and with what fallacious. benefit? Consciousness does not change the least by desiring. Nor does it get anything alien to itself from outside.

In fact, the wakefulness is its display, sleep its making, and dream its more intriguing craft. When all the three are traced to their one inner source, where is any scope for desiring or achieving the object of desire?

Thus say ‘good bye’ to desiring itself! By that, rule out all mental turbulence. Remain calm, peaceful and pleasant in your own within, letting the Consciousness shine with its own characteristic unsullied lustre.

Vet¡la’s question: The source of creation

Through the story of a Vet¡la (ethereal being), Sage VasiÀ¶ha introduces here an extremely subtle discussion, in which the extensive universe has but the status of only a particle, shining in the light of the spiritual Self,

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the sentient Sun. The discussion assumes special relevance in the light of modern scientists trying to discover the source of creation, which in their language is ‘God particle’.

Is God a particle? Can a particle become the source of a huge universe? Whatever be the scientific answer to these questions, in India our ancient Seers had taken up questions and enquiries like this, and arrived at such clarity and conclusions, as will amaze any devout modern thinker.

In this story, the Vet¡la is a legendary ethereal being, symbolizing a man- eating monster. One such monster encounters King Sajjana on the slopes of Vindhya mountains, threatening to eat him up, if the King does not answer his questions rightly.

The Vet¡la asked: EÚ∫™… ∫…⁄™…«∫™… Æ˙∂®…“x……∆ •…¿…hb˜…x™…h…¥…: EﬁÚ∂……: * EÚŒ∫®…x∫°÷ÚÆ˙Œxi… {…¥…x…‰ ®…Ω˛…M…M…x…Æ‰˙h…¥…: ** •…¿…hb˜…EÚ…∂…¶…⁄i……ËP…∫…⁄™…«®…hb˜±…®…‰Æ˙¥…: * +{… Æ˙i™…V…i……‰%h…÷i¥…∆ EÚ∫™……h……‰: {…Æ˙®……h…¥…: ** EÚ∫™……x…¥…™…¥…∫™…Ë¥… {…Æ˙®……h…÷®…Ω˛… M…Æ‰˙: * ∂…±……xi…Ãx… §…bË˜EÚ…xi…∞¸{…®…VV…… V…M…i…¬j…™…“ **

(6p.70.13,16,17)

Which is the Sun, a minute particle of whose rays this huge universe is? By the blow of which wind do the myriad dusts of stars move around in the infinite space?

What is that final ultimate minute particle, which, without forgoing its minuteness, produces still subtler particles constituting the huge universe, with extensive space, elements, sun and myriad galaxies, with Meru like mountainous strings within them?

What is that part-less minute source of mountain, inside the huge rock of which, is the pith and marrow of the three worlds?

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Here the assault the King encounters is not physical, using dagger and sword, or bow and arrow. In fact, it is an assault on human intelligence. Even a King on the throne, conducting the onerous task of administration, cannot lack inner strength, which spiritual wisdom alone can bestow.

Stripped of the allegory, the whole narration clearly points to how even those in the powerful seats of Administration should inevitably have the enlightenment and resolve – an outcome of spiritual wisdom. VasiÀ¶hadeva narrates this ancient dialogue indicating that despite the age of the event, the fact and purpose it reveals hold good forever. Verily they are ever relevant.

Vet¡la’s description of the endless universe is quite striking. However imposing is the picture the senses draw about the visible things around, the seen world is unreal. For the spiritual enquirer, it calls for further enquiry and examination. Human mind is capable of rising infinitely above the gross senses and what they report. One should not forget that the inner sentience itself is the architect of the senses.

The faithful but relentless pursuit of reflection and reason instantly lifts us above the ken of senses, lodging us safely in the depth and expanse of sentience, initiating a much higher probe, making the entire grossness and physicality the senses create subside completely. Everything then strikes as a doubtless extension and display of Consciousness itself, which is neither gross nor physical.

The wakeful world itself is a creation of the mind. Thus, the question as to what is that sentient sun, a minute particle of whose rays the universe is, becomes forceful and inevitable.

How emphatically does Vet¡la add that the myriad stars hovering in the endless space around are but dusts! What should one think of such bold utterances? Anyone who makes such references must be intuiting a deep note of sovereignty and subtlety, freed from the labyrinth of sensory perceptions, which delude us to think that physicality and grossness are

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the ultimate fact and experience of human life. The truth is far from it!

Vet¡la, holding the three worlds as the pith and marrow inside the huge rock of a mountain, in an attempt to make the King ponder over the source of such a causal mountain, is very suggestive. It makes the whole spiritual thought process indescribably subtle.

Spirituality becomes true and meaningful, only when the seeker shifts his attention from Spiritual seeking becomes true when the visibles around to the seeing process the seeker takes up within. In other words, spiritual seeking the probe into his becomes true when the seeker takes up the own mind and probe into his own mind and intelligence, to intelligence. land on their very source – the grand, inner Sentience, whose power it is to think, create and dissolve alike.

The Ultimate Reality

The King replied: +∫™…… n˘i™…∫™… n˘“{i…“x……∆ •…¿…hb˜…∫j…∫…Æ‰˙h…¥…: * ®…™…… S…i∫…⁄™…«

(6p.71.18,19,21)

The mystic universes are but minute particles floating in the brilliant rays of this inner Sun. This sentient solar presence is what makes the entire creation and its constituents pulsate, vibrate and move.

The Soul, whose sole content is knowledge, is the sun, whose

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brilliant ideation illumines all these worlds, which are but particles of its rays.

The entire world of beings is but bubbles and lather floating in the inmost Self, which has knowledge or sentience alone as its content. The entire expanse of the three worlds is but the platform made by the brilliant jewel of the sentient Self. All we see is but lines and figures drawn in the subtle inner consciousness, which, in reality, never gives birth to anything concrete or solid. Knowing this truth, O Vet¡la, be quiet for at least a while, without igniting questions and pressing for answers.

Before the spiritual thinker, the universe is obliged to become mystic, because it cannot have any material or objective source behind it. While the matter-energy sequences are acceptable within the sphere of the visible world, the moment we begin to think about how and wherefrom the first matter came to be, all material sequences lose their validity.

The conclusion naturally is that matter has originated from non-matter, a proposition that cannot be accepted on deeper analysis. For, if it does, it will only be disproving its very existence. It is common knowledge that the first parents would not have been born of another set of parents. Naturally, we can only consider the whole process mystic, not physical or concrete.

The entire gross world as a perception, experience, is floating in our mind. How can the subjective mind give rise to anything gross at all? Hence we cannot describe the whole world as anything but mystic, because it disproves and falsifies itself when studied in closer detail. How right is the King’s answer!

The King concludes his statements with a significant note: Your questions are valid only when the world and creation around can stand the test of reason to prove their prevalence. Consciousness, when understood, negates all else. Are not these remarks sufficient to enlighten and silence

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any devout thinker?

The inner Sun

The whole display is something mystically brought out by the singular sun of Consciousness. Sun is considered as the common source of brilliance for beings on the planet earth. To describe Consciousness as the Sun of the endless universe is thus quite meaningful.

Consciousness is luminous by nature. And sun is brilliant so far as our eyes are concerned. The inner Sun, namely Consciousness, is luminous before the mind and intelligence. It is the inward Sun that empowers the mind and intelligence in the process of comprehension.

Inasmuch as no external cause or source for the visible world can be adduced, the seeker is driven to his own inner realm in the matter. In fact, even the modern science is probing into the particle itself in order to find the source of creation!

Consciousness creating the gross world is not totally unknown to us. In dream, the mind suddenly produces an extended world, quite like the wakeful one, with all the physical and gross contents! The dream world undoubtedly rests on the mind itself, within the body. But can such a physical extensive existence be within our limited body? How then to explain the whole phenomenon?

Despite the experience of grossness, physicality and objectivity in dream, it can only be described as something mystic, ineffable. That is why it disappears when the dreamer wakes up.

So the King affirms that the entire world with The entire world all its inert and sentient constituents, is no more with all its inert than mere bubbles floating in the inmost Self, and sentient whose content is sentience or knowledge. constituents, is no more than mere However physical or material the world and its bubbles floating in contents may seem, they are only subjective the inmost Self.

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effects produced by the inmost Self. Being so, their concreteness is questionable. It is a myth. It is a long, repetitive dream.

Understanding that all that the senses perceive are in reality non-existent, O Vet¡la, dispel your questions without seeking answers from anyone, and be quiet in yourself.

It was good that Vet¡la raised such questions, giving King Sajjana an occasion to enlighten him on the fundamental fact that all creation is subjective and its gross nature is fictitious. This sets at rest all the conflicts, curiosity and consternation of human mind and intelligence.

(to be continued)

* * *

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Spiritual S¡dhan¡ in a Nutshell Swami Nirviseshananda Tirtha

[Handout given at the end of the 5-week Experiential Vedanta Programme held at the Ashram.]

These five weeks, you have been in a protected atmosphere, spending most of the time in Satsang. The situation will be different when you go back from here – to your family, friends, and profession. Unless you are sincere in bringing about a drastic change in your life style, particularly your mind’s life style, the benefit of these five weeks’ pursuit will be lost.

The infinite variety of the world is always pulling us away from our real Identity, our inmost anchor. Know that this centrifugal force is not generated by the objects themselves, but by our mind’s preference and prejudice towards them.

To interact with the world variety remaining anchored to our core identity, we have to balance the centrifugal force by generating enough of centripetal force (seeking the centre).

How to constantly generate the centripetal force? 1. Look Within. Shift the focus FROM external events and situations TO the mind’s response to them.

2. Follow that which makes you feel inner expansion, lightness and strength. Avoid that which makes you feel shrunk and weak within. Remember, spirituality means expansion. It is a pilgrimage from selfishness to Self-ness.

3. Have a fixed place and time for daily non-interactional s¡dhan¡. Interactional s¡dhan¡ should go on all the time. Do not quote interactional s¡dhan¡ as an excuse for not pursuing non-interactional s¡dhan¡.

4. V¡k-saÆyama. Before blurting forth – stop; look into the mind; and then speak what is necessary. Just express what you want for whatever it

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is worth; and do not cling egoistically to what you said. Watching and restraining words will increase your inner strength, poise and attention tremendously.

5. Ëh¡ra-¿uddhih. Purify all inputs. Ëh¡ra does not mean only oral food; it means whatever we are taking in through the five senses and the mind.

(Ëh¡ra-¿uddhau sattva-¿uddhiÅ; sattva-¿uddhau dhruv¡ sm¤tih; sm¤ti- lambhe sarva-granth¢n¡Æ vipramokÀaÅ … “. Through purification of all sensory intakes (by transcending r¡ga-dveÀa), the being becomes purified. Through purification of the being one gets unbroken remembrance of the Self, his real identity. Remembrance of the true identity leads to complete freedom from all internal knots i.e. from ego and desires. - Ch¡ndogya Upanishad 7.26.2).

6. Love virtues. If you really love some quality, you should be happy seeing it in others too.

7. Never find fault in others. Blaming thoughts about anybody pollute our own mind. Not finding fault in anybody or not blaming anybody does not mean not seeing the defects. You should be unhappy seeing defects in yourself as well as in others. Impersonality means seeing things as they are – whether in yourself or in others.

8. Never fight with the negative thoughts or traits. Fighting with them will allow them a greater hold on your mind. Instead, fill the mind with positive thoughts and liberal qualities. When the negative thoughts come, ask them in a friendly way, to leave you. But, make sure you do not indulge in them any more.

9. Never dwell in the past (either lamenting/repenting or boasting). Never loiter in the imaginary future. Accept everything of the present with evenness and unaffectedness. (At¢ta-ananusandh¡nam bhaviÀyad- avic¡ra¸am audas¢nyam-api pr¡ptaÆ j¢vanmuktasya lakÀa¸am - Vivekac£·¡ma¸i 432).

Be attentive to the present. Plan very well learning from past

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experiences, and considering all future possibilities and consequences. Do not desire-fully indulge in the expectation of gain and happiness that may come after completion of the project.

10. Any treatment or correction becomes most effective when applied to the causal level. To correct a wrong behaviour, look for the thoughts giving rise to such behaviour. To transform the thoughts look into the mindset that is giving rise to such thoughts. A good liberal mindset will generate good liberal thoughts; which in turn will be expressed through good liberal actions/behaviour.

In spiritual s¡dhan¡, the mindset (bh¡va) is transformed by repeated contemplation on the one, universal, changeless Soul, which is free of any taint, affectation, doership or enjoyership.

11. Thinking constantly about the worldly likes and dislikes, we become slave to the world. By thinking more and more about our own unaffected, unchanging, universal identity, we become master of the world.

12. Spend time with the sky, sun, mountain and ocean, thinking about their qualities: ¡k¡¿aval-lepa-vidoorago’ham ¡ditya-vad-bh¡sya-vilaksha¸o’ham , ah¡rya-van-nitya-vini¿chalo’ham ambhodhi-vat-p¡ra-vivarjito’ham . Vivekac£·¡ma¸i 499

Like the sky, stainless am I. Like the sun, self-luminous am I. I am ever poised and unshakeable like the mountain. I am vast and unbounded like the ocean. Integrated Personality

(Ka¶hopanishad 1.3.3 to 1.3.9)

● The intelligence (charioteer) should look for guidance from the Soul (master of the chariot) – the inner voice of Truth.

● The mind (reins) must heed the guidance of the intelligence (viveka),

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 21

winning over the influence of desires and intolerance.

● The senses cannot be controlled directly by the intelligence. The intelligence has to guide the senses through the mind. Only disciplined senses will act according to this guidance.

5 Senses Soul Intelligence Mind

Body

123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890

123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890 Sense objects

Therefore:

❍ Discipline the senses (horses) through sensory austerities.

❍ Strengthen the mind (reins) through mind-related austerities and disciplines.

❍ Sharpen the intelligence (charioteer) by practising viveka (discrimination).

❍ Listen to viveka (the voice of Truth). The disciplined senses following the mind, mind guided by the intelligence, the intelligence always looking for guidance from the Soul, will lead us to the ultimate auspicious goal.

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 22

Role of self-effort

Bhagavadgeet¡ repeatedly highlights the role of self-effort and discipline in attaining fulfillment in life (verses 6.5, 3.34, 2.64).

Right from birth, we are slave to our attraction and repulsion (r¡ga- dveÀa) towards worldly objects and situations. The senses are tied to the external objects and objective situations. The mind is driven by the attraction and repulsion of the senses, and also by its own desires relating to our position and status in the external world. The intelligence analyzes and decides, driven by the desires of the mind. So, the whole personality becomes slave to the outer world.

Real Identity (Infinitude) Master of the World

Life anchored in ➝ ➝ ➝ ➝ ➝ Real Identity

Viveka-buddhiÅ Attraction (Intelligence guided & by viveka) Physical repulsion towards Mind Body with ➝ ➝➝➝➝➝➝ 5 senses world Vishaya-buddhiÅ objects & situations (Intelligence under clutch of worldliness) Life controlled by r¡ga-dveÀa Slave to the World

Bhagavadgeet¡ says that the way to freedom is to reverse this order of control (verses 3.42 & 43). Tie the intelligence to your true identity – the one universal Soul. Awareness of this identity will free the intelligence from the constrictions of partial vision tainted by ‘me & mine’. Led by the free intelligence, the mind will be able to overcome its clinging to constricted selfish vision produced by preference and prejudice. Employed by such a free mind, the senses will do whatever is ultimately auspicious for oneself as well as the society.

Although we may not have a clear understanding of the Soul, its voice is

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 23

there in everybody as the “inner voice”, because it is our real identity. Being under the spell of external attraction and repulsion, we don’t heed this voice.

S¡dhan¡ – a comprehensive sketch

S¡dhan¡

Interactional Non-interactional (Meditation, contemplation, introspection) 1. Opt for áreyas (ultimate auspicious goal) 2. Look within – Inner expansion & strength 3. Comprehensive vision (Universal Identity) Discovering the 4. Wave identity to Sea identity Real Identity 5. Listen to viveka (Inner voice)

Transcending the ● All actions transformed into Yajµa Subject-object duality ● Life Divinized

Meditational absorption helps Interactional sublimity leads to attain interactional better meditational sublimity & impersonality absorption

Emotional fulfillment Intelligential fulfillment Grand integration of personality

* * *

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 24

Gurupoor¸im¡ & Service in Gurusannidhi [Report translated from Vicharasara¸i, July 2012] Sooraj ®…n˘“™… æ˛n˘™……EÚ…∂…‰ ∫…n˘…x…xn˘®…™……‰ M…÷Ø˚: * =n‰˘i…÷ ∫…i…i…∆ ∫…®™…E¬Ú +Y……x… i… ®…Æ˙…Ø˚h…: **

I was able to take part in Gurupoor¸im¡ and the retreat that followed this year quite unexpectedly. I could also serve during the preparatory stages for both functions. Gurupoor¸im¡ was on July 3rd and Anna-vastra d¡na-satram fell on 9th July. As in the previous years, the constraints on accommodation and infrastructure posed a problem when it came to the matter of including greater number of participants. However, quite a few enthusiastic youngsters had volunteered to participate this time, which facilitated the preparation for both the events. Indeed, the hands of Providence do reach out in assistance to such auspicious endeavours.

Preparations to receive the visitors and guests hailing from different parts of the country began well in advance. The effort made by the Ashramites to arrange for food and accommodation facilities, keeping in mind the health and the cultural background of the devotees, was remarkable. Swamiji often says that of all the practices of a Brahmavidy¡ s¡dhaka, service in Gurusannidhi plays an incomparable role. These occasions are golden opportunities for the disciples who have taken deekÀ¡ and are pursuing their s¡dhana, to serve the Guru with all earnestness and alertness.

People were involved in various areas of activities, serving according to their capabilities and Poojya Swamiji looked upon them with a benign equanimity resembling the bh¡va of the untouched, unaffected Supreme amidst the creation with all its contradictions. “Brahmavit brahmaiva bhavati” – he who knows Brahman becomes Brahman. It was the nature

Sooraj, aged 25, a disciple of Poojya Swamiji, has been coming to the Ashram for the last 4 years. He hails from Kasargod, Kerala.

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 25

and splendour of God himself that I saw revealed in Poojya Swamiji.

The youngsters did a commendable job in decorating the Ashram premises beautifully with flowers on the eve of Gurupoor¸im¡. They stayed up well into midnight with unflagging energy. On the morning of Gurupoor¸im¡, the prayer was held at Samadhi Mandir at 5.45 am. The bhajans began in Vijµ¡na Bhavan at 8.30 am, infusing the atmosphere with vibrant devotion.

Smt. Dipti and Sri Ravi Mehrotra (Delhi) performed Guru-p¡da-pooj¡ on behalf of all present. Others repeated the mantras, taking part in the p£ja mentally from where they were seated. After ¡rati, Swamiji gave his benedictory message. After everyone had done pra¸¡m, Swamiji got up and danced to the bhajans in divine joy elevating all present to an ethereal state of mind. Devotees and visitors were immersed in the sublime spell of divinity, dancing and singing. CCTV arrangements had been made at other parts of Ashram to make viewing of the programme convenient for those who could not be accommodated in the Vijµ¡na Bhavan.

Nearly 700 people partook of the bhakti-bhojanam that began after 12 noon. It was amazing to see that the Ashramites and devotees did not show any sign of tiredness despite working late. Everyone exuded a cheerful willingness to do anything for Swamiji. The sight convinces one that even difficulty or sacrifice becomes delighting when Sadguru, who is the personification of Brahman, becomes deeply embedded in one’s mind.

In the retreat that commenced from the next day, nearly 60 s¡dhakas took part, of which about twenty were young men and women. Their interest as well as harmonious participation was a testimony to the important role spirituality can play in the auspicious growth and development of the present generation.

There were three sessions everyday. In the morning session (between 9.15 & 10.15), Poojya Swamiji gave an exposition based on Bhagavadgeet¡.

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 26

Swamiji portrayed the picture of Arjuna who had come to the battlefield of Kurukshetra after 12 years of austerity and incognito life, proud of his skills, only to crumble down there, unable to wield arms or fight. I understood from the talks that mental austerity stands above all kinds of physical austerities and the true attainment lies in disciplining one’s mind.

The introspection session led by M¡ and Nutan Swamiji was outstanding and helped immensely to evaluate oneself and to reach the depths of the mind. In the afternoon (4:15 to 5:15), Nutan Swamiji’s exposition on the profound subject of how the world is reflected in the Consciousness held everyone enthralled. Humorous anecdotes and graphical representations made the Vedantic s¡dhana easily understood by all. Nutan Swamiji’s exhortation to live as a Master of the world, instead of slavery to the sensory objects and objective situations, was quite inspiring, particularly for the youngsters.

Poojya Swamiji’s evening satsangs would begin at 7:00 pm, after the prayers at Samadhi Mandir. The gross world existing in the extremely subtle mind was a concept that compelled the listeners to contemplate deeply. The young participants used to discuss amongst themselves once they got back to their rooms after dinner.

It was a great experience to watch how the retreat participants, assisted by a few Ashram workers, filled 21,000 kgs of rice in about 7,000 bags for AVDS (Anna-vastra d¡na-satram). The Herculean task was done well before time through a delightful and harmonious team work, with chanting of n¡m¡val¢ filling the air all the time. In the AVDS on 9th July, the d¡na materials were distributed to around 6000 families amidst choral n¡ma sa´keertan¡. Despite rains, people waited patiently for long hours in the queue to receive the rice, clothes and sweet. The distribution ended by 6.30 in the evening. There was a concluding session on the same day in the evening, where the retreat participants shared their experiences.

Even immense responsibilities and intense activities become smooth like

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 27

a light melody in Gurusannidhi. Every grain of sand there radiates the auspicious vibration of renunciation, austerity and sublimity. The ¿¡stras proclaim that the Lord should be installed in our heart in order to relieve the worldly woes and to remove the three kinds of afflictions. I felt that the observance of Gurupoor¸im¡ and AVDS exemplified how this can be achieved.

When Guru, the embodiment of Truth is established in one’s mind and heart, even the most difficult sorrows, goals, efforts – all become benevolent means for transforming the disciple. It is like a bud blossoming into a flower. i…∫®…Ë ∏…“ M…÷Æ˙¥…‰ x…®…: * ■

* * *

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 28

Gurupoor¸im¡ in other Centres – Devotees

CIRD-Delhi: Preparations for observing Gurupoor¸im¡ started the day before, with devotees assembling at the Centre and getting things ready. On the 3rd of July, devotees started arriving as early as 6 am. Decorating the Satsang Hall, cleaning the flowers, organizing the book counter, and arranging the pras¡da, were done quietly with devotion.

Guru-archan¡ was performed by Sri Raju Kapoor and Sri SN Pandey with the chanting of A¿¶ottara-¿ata-n¡m¡val¢, offering flowers at the feet of Poojya Swamiji on behalf of all the devotees present.

The assembled devotees, around 90 in number, then listened to the recorded message of Poojya Swamiji. Swamiji highlighted the sanctity and significance of Gurupoor¸im¡. Swamiji’s message was followed by a short talk by S¡dhv¢ Haripriy¡ ji. Assembled devotees then offered flowers at the holy feet of Poojya Swamiji, took pras¡da from Haripriya Mataji, and partook of bhakti-bhojanam.

This year for the first time, a live audio broadcast of Gurupoor¸im¡ at the Ashram had been arranged. Many devotees in Delhi stayed back, eager to avail of this rare opportunity.

CIRD-Jamshedpur: About 150 devotees congregated in the main hall of Arogya Bhavan, Sonari, Jamshedpur, to participate in the Gurupoor¸im¡ function at 6:30pm. The hall was well decorated with marigold garlands. Poojya Swamiji’s photo was placed at the centre of the hall, well decorated with flowers revealing his lively presence. The function began with blowing of the auspicious conch, followed by chanting of Guru Vandana. After that, archan¡ was performed by Sri Abhishek and his sister Kumari Neha on behalf of all the devotees, along with chanting of 108 holy names of Poojya Swamiji. Then deepa-¡r¡dhan¡ was performed.

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 29

Devotees listened to the pre-recorded message from Poojya Swamiji with rapt attention. Printed copies of Hindi rendering of the message were distributed to the devotees. Chanting “Om nama: sad¡¿iv¡ya … “ devotees performed puÀpa-samarpa¸am. The function concluded at 8:30pm with distribution of pras¡da.

SIRD Malaysia: Gurupoor¸im¡ was observed in SIRD in the evening at 7.30 pm. P¡da pooj¡ was performed by three ladies, Smt. Padmini Menon, Smt. Rekha Aravind and Smt. Kamala Ramachandran. About 50 devotees recited the n¡m¡val¢ in chorus, led by Uncle Ramaswamy Iyer and Smt. Shanti Menon.

Thereafter devotees listened to Poojya Swamiji’s message. They were shown a power-point presentation of the many activities that take place in the Ashram during this period. The evening concluded with bhakti- bhojanam.

This year the event was unique because of the live audio streaming from Ashram for the first time. A few of us gathered at SIRD in the morning to listen to Poojya Swamiji, as the event was unfolding in the Ashram. The next six days we were able to listen to Poojya Swamiji’s Prabh¡ta- ra¿miÅ and morning discourses, and Nutan Swamiji’s afternoon classes. Those of us who could listen to these sessions, felt as if we had attended the Retreat in the Ashram. It was a very fulfilling and enriching week.

CIRD-NA: On July 4th, Poojya Swamiji’s devotees joyfully congregated at Smt. Nisha Govindani’s home to celebrate Gurupoor¸im¡. About 40 people participated in the event. The function commenced at 9:30 am with bhajans followed by puÀpa-samarpa¸am. The pre-recorded message from Poojya Swamiji was heard by all devotees. The programme ended with bhakti-bhojanam.

CIRD-Mumbai: The function was conducted at the residence of Smt. Shanti and Sri Vishwanath at 4:30 pm. It was attended by around 25 devotees. After lighting the lamp, the assembled devotees chanted Guru-

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 30

stotras. P¡da-pooja was performed by Smt. Vimla and Sri Rajiv Kumar, while everyone recited A¿¶ottara-¿ata-n¡m¡val¢. The assembly listened to Swamiji’s special pre-recorded benedictory message on the occasion of Gurupoor¸im¡ and then had a 10 minute meditative absorption. Before departing, all partook of bhakti-bhojanam.

CIRD-Chennai: Gurupoor¸im¡ celebration was held in Chennai at the residence of Smt. Savithri and Sri Chennakesavan in the evening between 6.45 & 8.15 pm. A specially prepared invitation was sent earlier to all the Vicharasethu subscribers based in Chennai. About 25 devotees attended the event.

The function started with the chanting of ‘Om’, and p¡da-pooj¡ performed by Smt. Ram¡ and Sri Natarajan with all others joining in A¿¶ottara-¿ata- n¡m¡val¢. This was followed by puÀpa-samarpa¸am. Then Poojya Swamiji’s pre-recorded message was heard by all. The event concluded with bhajans and bhakti-bhojanam.

Bangalore: Arrangements were made at the ‘Activity Centre’ of Mantri Greens for disciples and devotees to observe Gurupoor¸im¡. On the previous day itself, the venue was tested for the availability of wi-fi connection to ensure uninterrupted listening to the live audio broadcast from the Ashram. Programme started at 09:30 am. 18 devotees attended the function.

Synchronizing with live chanting of A¿¶ottara-¿ata-n¡m¡val¢ by Nutan Swamiji and M¡, Sri RS Tiwari and Sri Vaman Kamath offered flowers at the holy pedestal of Poojya Swamiji’s portrait. The performance of Guru- p¡da-pooj¡ along with what was going on in the Ashram itself, had a divinizing influence on all devotees. Poojya Swamiji’s benedictory talk was heard by all. Devotees then offered their respects to Poojya Swamiji, received pras¡da, and dispersed after partaking of light refreshments.

Pune: On the holy occasion of Gurupoor¸im¡, a satsang was held at the residence of Smt. Divya and Sri Mahesh in the afternoon. 14 devotees

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 31

participated in the event.

Smt. Divya and Sri Mahesh offered flowers at the lotus feet of Poojya Gurudev, accompanied by the chanting of A¿¶ottara-¿ata-n¡m¡val¢ by the devotees. It was followed by puÀpa-samarpa¸am by all devotees. Then they listened to the message of Poojya Gurudev. The auspicious function came to an end with the melodious singing of some bhajans by Smt Saroj (Gayatri’s mother) with other devotees joining in chorus. Everybody took Pras¡da before leaving. ■

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Vicharasethu – August – 2012 32

Back to Eternity Shashi Gupta (New Delhi)

Shashi Gupta, 67, an architect, left her body on 15th June morning, after a heart attack. Years back, Shashi came to see me in Delhi with her architect friend Uma Ahuja. Shashi took to the profession successfully, while Uma preferred to remain a housewife.

Shashi would not speak much, but unfailingly used to come to me whenever we were in Delhi. She would spend some time, fondly speaking a few words. She had no doubt, no questions, nothing specially to look for. But the fondness and the silent note of devotional loyalty she evinced was singular to elicit the best from her Teacher.

When Pankaj, her son, spoke to me fondly of his mother’s demise, I found a distinct touch of loss and concern, but an expectation to keep in touch with me, extending the line of his dear mother. He looked for a fond nod from me. Nothing pleases me more than such fond adherence to the mother’s wishes and ideals. In fact, all children should have this.

Pankaj sent me an email about his mother, which though brief, is significant: “Until her last day, she remained active as an architect, wife, mother and grandmother. Always smiling, embodying intelligence, compassion, humility and strength, she was the pillar of our family and we will all miss her always.

“I thank you for the peace and strength you imparted to her. She had let me know how much solace she received from you and your teachings. Thank you also for organizing the anna-d¡na in her memory. I look forward to meeting you soon. “

Shashi will always remain in my mind. Pankaj and other members of her family should strive wholeheartedly to incorporate her virtues and special interests. This indeed is the nitya-¿raddh¡-arpa¸a for the departed.

- Swamiji

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 33

News & Notes

❑ Gurupoor¸im¡ was observed in the Ashram on July 03. Smt. Deepti and Sri Ravi Mehrotra of Delhi performed p¡da-pooj¡. Nearly 700 devotees took part in the bhakti bhojanam. The six-day retreat was held from July 04 to 09. About 60 s¡dhakas from Mumbai, Delhi, Jamshedpur, Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad and various cities in Kerala including Thrissur, attended the Retreat.

Gurupoor¸im¡ was also celebrated at various other Centres of the Ashram in India and abroad. Details appear in pages 20 to 25.

❑ Jµ¡na Yajµa in Malaysia: Poojya Swamiji along with M¡ will be in Malaysia between Aug 15 and Sep 04. Details of the programme were published last month.

❑ Jµ¡na-Yajµa in USA: Poojya Swamiji along with Nutan Swamiji and M¡ will leave for USA on Sep 18 and return to India on Oct 12. Brni. Namrat¡ Swaroop¡ will accompany them. They will be based in McLean, Virginia from Sept 19 till Oct 11. On Sept 22, Poojya Swamiji will travel to New York to address the ‘Global Indian Business Meet 2012’. From Sept 26 to Oct 02, Poojya Swamiji along with M¡ will be in California to conduct the Jµ¡na-Yajµa there. Nutan Swamiji will remain in Virginia to conduct programmes there.

Programmes in Virginia: Sep 21-23, three-day intensive “Experiential Vedanta” course; Sep 24-25, Evening Interactive Session/Satsang; Sep 26- 30, Discourses on Bhagavadgeet¡ by Nutan Swamiji; Oct 01-05 Evening Interactive Session/Satsang; Oct 06 – ViÀ¸u-sahasra-n¡ma S¡rvajanika Yajµa; Oct 07-09 Discourses, classes and satsangs.

Contact: Sri Pankaj Bhatia 703-615-1564; Sri Bharat Govindani 703-861-4230; Sri Ram Prasad 703-343-5388

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 34

Programmes in California: From Sep 26 to Oct 02, Poojya Swamiji along with M¡ will be in Irvine, California. Sep 27 – Guru Archana (7 - 8.30 pm); Sep 28 morning – Interactive Satsang; evening discourse (7:00 - 8.30 pm).

Sept 29 – 30: Two day programme at Gayathri Consciousness Centre, Anaheim, California. Morning: Discourse by M¡ Gurupriy¡ (9:30 - 10:30 am); Interactive Satsang with Poojya Swamiji (10:45 - 12 noon). Evening: “Realize the Self – Here and Now” Poojya Swamiji’s discourses based on AÀ¶¡vakra SaÆhit¡ (7 - 8:30 pm). Oct 01 (7 - 8.30 pm) – Concluding Satsang.

Contact: Smt. Shanthi Narayanan 949-529-4756; Sri Natarajan 949-529-4760; Sri Moorthy 949-981-3588; Sri Ravi Vishwanathan 949-559-9082.

❑ Anna Vastra Dana Satram (AVDS): For the 27th annual AVDS, about 75 tonnes of rice, 16,000 sarees and 9,000 bed sheets have been procured. This year’s event started from Omkarashram in Deshamangalam on June 30. Distribution in the Ashram was on July 9 (the last day of the retreat following Gurupoor¸im¡), in which about 7,000 poor families received d¡na. Sri Biju Bhaskar, Dy. Superintendent of Police, Irinjalakuda, came to participate in and witness the event.

The Satram was conducted in Vyasa Tapovanam on July 19 for 4,000 families. This year, D¡na Satram is being held from 50 village centres covering 500 villages, and will conclude by Aug 30.

❑ As requested by the Panchayat president, to encourage the students who had obtained A+ in all subjects, and also scored marks above 85% in the last SSLC and plus-2 examinations, Poojya Swamiji gifted each of these students an English-English-Malayalam dictionary. The gifts were handed over to the students along with a message from Swamiji, in a simple function arranged by the Panchayat on July 14. ■

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 35

Participants of the Retreat after Gurupoor¸im¡ 2012

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 36

Poojya Swamiji inspecting the p¡yasam preparation

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 37

Volunteers packing rice

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 38

Items being arranged at the distribution site

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 39

Packing sarees & bed-sheets

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 40

Poojya Swamiji addressing the recipients. Also seen is DySP (Irinjalakuda) Sri Biju Bhaskar

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 41

Recipients in queue

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 42

Receiving d¡na from Poojya Swamiji and Nutan Swamiji

Vicharasethu – August – 2012 43

Receiving d¡na from M¡

Vicharasethu – August – 2012