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Affirming Sanatana Dharma and Recording the Modern History of a Billion-Strong Global Religion in Renaissance dinodia COVER: Swami Avadeshananda leads hundreds of thousands of sadhus of the Juna Akhara, page 18. (above) The principles of Positive Discipline help raise secure, happy, respectful, competent children with a strong sense of belonging, page 37. January/February/March, 2009 • Hindu Year 5110 Sarvadhari, the All-Supporting Year

www.gurudeva.org International Feature: Meet Our Hindu of the Year—a Dynamic Review: Three Fine Books Illumine Archeology, Preacher and Skillful Social Innovator 18 Baba Muktananda and ’s Women 65 Pilgrimage: A Family Visit to Goddess Durga 32 Medicine: Food Allergies? Got Ayurveda? 66 Issues: Dalit Leader Pleads for Economic Parity 57 opinion History: Journey Back to 1838 when Europe First In My Opinion: How Can Immigrants Transmit Discovered the “Dazzling Light” of Indian Dance” 60 Cultural Values to the Facebook Generation? 9 Lifestyle Publisher’s Desk: To d a y Looks Back Youth: The Next Generation of American at 30 Years of Service to the Hindu World 10 Discover Morari Bapu’s 9-Day Katha 28 Letters 12 Television: Is it True that the “Church of Oprah From the Agamas: The Power of Mystic Diagrams 17 Winfrey” Preaches Hindu Tenets to Millions? 30 Youth: Will My Generation Lose their Hinduness? 56 Insight: Fourteen Strategies for Raising Happy, Vegetarianism: One Man’s Comic Food Torment 58 Disciplined Children in Modern Times 37 Minister’s Message: Is there a Better Way to Reach 21st-Century Youth? 67 HINDUISM Resources: Jane Nelsen’s Positive Discipline Book 53 Psychology: Understanding Your Child’s Emotions 54 TODAY digests Reference: A Look Inside Mission’s Diaspora 6 Digital Dharma 86 Three-Volume Encyclopedia of Hinduism 64 Quotes & Quips 14

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Send Comments Subscribe to Hindu An Audio Library To the Editor Press International, a Of Inspired Talks (e-mail) Daily News Summary canada warfare, Sri Lankan Hindus here are moving forward. Fifteen-year-old bali Toronto Rites Vignesh Markandu writes: kept to join Suyasa’s cremation. “I have been praying at Sri Some had been buried or mum- Growing Varasithi Vinaayagar Hin- mified for months or even years, anada’s province of du temple since the year Spectacular awaiting the auspicious occasion COntario now has the larg- 2001. I have become very of a royal cremation. Although est Sri Lankan diaspora in the devoted to Lord Ganesha, Cremation cremated at the same time, the world. The 2008 annual chariot Who has become indis- t was the most specta- pyres of the commoners were in festival of Toronto’s Sri Vara- pensable in my life. There Icular royal funeral in Bali in a separate location. sithi Vinaayagar temple drew are no cultural/age differ- at least three decades. On the According to Balinese belief, a crowd of 15,000. Sri Lankan ence in this temple. It has auspicious day of July 15, 2008, the soul can return to inhabit a temple officials and devotees a balanced blend of Hindu in a roar of orange flames, the new being—generally a member pride themselves on conduct- youths, adults and seniors. body of Agung Suyasa, who had of the same family—only after it ing high-standard pujas and Although the temple is The Sri Lankan community sets high standards for Hindu rites in Canada, died in March, 2008, head of the has been freed through crema- festivals. They have carried this based on South Indian where its festivals continue to grow in size, grandeur and public recognition royal family of Ubud, and two tion. “None of us is brand new,” tradition to lands far and wide. rituals and language, it is members of his extended fam- said Raka Kerthyasa, the younger For the annual rites, the temple becoming a multicultural, mul- materials and explaining things principals. This temple is truly ily were reduced to their earthly half-brother of Suyasa, who is hired priests from India, nagas- tiethnic center. The last time I in English, and the youth are an example of opulent South elements in a mass cremation now the guardian of the ancient waram (temple horn) players went to the annual festival I saw paying more attention. The tem- Indian Hindu culture. Sri Vara- that included 68 commoners. but symbolic royal family and and 12 temple drummers, plus Caucasians and many Chinese. ple also has a school for youth sithi Vinaayagar is no ordinary In a Balinese tradition, the bod- who oversaw the cremation. an elephant from the local zoo. Everyone is accepted. and programs for seniors. The temple. It seems to have been ies of the commoners had been “We are part of the cycle of life.” While their homeland con- “Recently the temple and priests here do all the ceremo- unearthed in Jaffna and brought tinues to sink under ruinous priests have begun publishing nies according to the traditional to Toronto.”

usa America are learning the sacred rites out of neccesity. Male Woman Priest brahmin priests once held a prestigious position in Hindu society. But today educated His Holiness, Swami Chidananda Saraswati was a paragon of Fillsith Shortageover 3 million hin- brahmins are taking up secular monasticism, a modern-day saint who inspired tens of thousands Wdus in the US and Can- work and looking down on the ada, attending more than 700 priesthood as a less sophisticat- india end, he left written instructions temples and mandirs, there is ed and less lucrative vocation. (see www.sivanandaonline.org) a growing shortage of priests When facing resistance from that his body was to be uncer- to perform the necessary rites conservatives, Tandon says, “Can A Great Soul emoniously disposed of within in temples and in homes. Step- you tell me who gave birth to three hours in the nearest river ping in to fill the gap is Shashi you? The mother is the true Moves On (which was the Ganges) fol- Tandon, 68, a retired teacher. priest. She is the true teacher, wami chidananda sara- lowing the ancient tradition of She and a few other women in the first teacher of the child.” S swati attained Mahasamadhi the Shankaracharya Order of on August 28, 2008, at the age sannyasins. of 92. Given his frail health, his He was ever urging his listen- passing was not unexpected. ers to live the divine life, saying, Shreeya, a farmer’s daughter from the town of Bhaktapur, met all Swami had been a monk since “To enter into the spiritual life is tests and had the 32 physical attributes to become the Living Goddess 1949 and the president of the a rare blessedness, it is a great (DLS) since good. To take it seriously and en- nepal state-run Trust Corporation that 1963. He was a direct disciple of gage in active spiritual sadhana oversees the country’s cultural Swami Sivananda, the founder is a second blessedness and a matters. Her selection from a of DLS. Beyond his position as still greater good. But to perse- Maoists Keep Buddhist Shakya-Newar family a world leader, Swami lived his vere in the spiritual life, to be was performed in accordance life at a transcendent level of pu- ever progressive and ceaseless in The Goddess with tradition, after consultation rity, austerity, humility, simplic- one’s spiritual life, is the greatest o the surprise of some, the with astrologers. Previously her ity and selfless service. He struck good, the crowning blessedness.” T new Communist, allegedly horoscope had to be compatible a deep spiritual chord in every- On September 28, 2008, His atheist, government of Nepal with that of the King. How this one he met and was deemed a Holiness, Sri Swami Vimalanan- has chosen a new Kumari, the mandate was fulfilled after the living saint by all. He received da, 76, a senior monk of the living incarnation of Goddess abolition of the monarchy is not Hinduism Today’s Hindu Ren- Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh, Kali and protectress of the state. known, but it was encouraging naissance award as Hindu of the was elected as the new Chair- Formerly chosen by the King’s for Hindus to note that under Year in 1999. man and ex-officio President of Balinese joyously celebrate the fiery liberation from the mortal coil of royal priest, the selection was the new government, this sacred True to his principles to the the Divine Life Trust Society. three members of the royal family and 68 souls of the common people made under the auspices of the tradition was not discarded. Pandita Tandon performs the wedding of her grandson in Chicago

divine life society, afp photo/bay ismoyo clockwise from top: vignesh markandu; abel uribe, 6 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 chicago tribube; xinhua/photoshot january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 7 china Hinduism To d a y was founded on January 5, in my opinion US Hindu 1979, by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami (1927–2001). It is a Olympian nonprofit educational Eastern Children in a Western World exas hindus were jubi- activity of Himalayan T lant on August, 12, 2008, Academy, with the fol- A look at preserving our traditional values for watching Raj Bhavsar, a lowing purposes: 1. To 27-year-old artistic gym- foster Hindu solidar- the text-messaging, Facebook generation nast, earn a bronze medal as ity as a unity in diver- a member of the 2008 US sity among all sects Olympic Team, becoming the and lineages; 2. To inform and inspire Hindus By mehdi rizvi third Indian-American ever worldwide and people interested in Hinduism; 3. To dispel myths, illusions and misinformation Neo-nazis protest mosques, synagogues and temples to win a medal at the Olym- about Hinduism; 4. To protect, preserve and pro- mmigrants to canada in Asian and Middle Eastern pics, after Mohini Bhardwaj the 1950s and 60s came immigrant parents do not germany mote the sacred Vedas and the Hindu religion; and Alexi Grewal. 5. To nurture and monitor the ongoing spiri- mostly from Europe. Now generally accept sleepovers Girish Naik, president of tual Hindu renaissance; 6. To publish resources the pattern has changed; at a friend’s house, late nights Hindus of Greater Houston, for Hindu leaders and educators who promote according to the 2006 census, out and returning home with Protesting Places of Faith said, “Hindus of Greater Sanatana Dharma. Join this seva by sending let- 58.3 percent of the last five the rising sun the next morn- ermany’s radical right- protest, 155 NPD demonstrated Houston would like to con- ters, clippings, photographs, reports on events I years’ 1.11 million immigrants ing. They are concerned about G wing party, the neo- against plans to build two Hindu gratulate our own Raj Bhavsar and by encouraging others. came from Asia and the shootings, drug- and sex-relat- nazi National Democratic Party temples—a Sri Ganesha temple of Houston on his accom- Middle East. These immigrants ed crimes and teenage pregnan- (NPD), is openly racist, anti-se- in Hasenheide and a Muru- plishment at the Olympics. came with their customs, tra- cies. Canadian parents are no metic and against minorities of gan temple in Blaschkoallee. Hindus are great leaders in ditions and religious and social happier with these phenomena all kinds. Their membership of Meanwhile thousands of many fields in the US, but we values, and their children are and realize that too much free- 7,500 is raising alarms and con- anti-fascist Germans protested are lacking in sports. Today Raj Bhavsar executes the iron trained in Canadian schools to practice the dom and the absence of parental and social troversy in Germany and Europe. against the NPD, taking the Bhavsar has filled the void. cross on the rings in Beijing qualities of honesty, mutual respect and control are among the main causes. In August, 2008, displaying side of Hindus, saying that He is someone our youth can tolerance to become good citizens. Is morality irrelevant to any generation a red flag (see photo) previ- “Berlin is not brown [the Nazi look up to.” After returning from August 30th Janmashtami cel- The blending of the noble values of the or cultural group? Can’t we design decent ously made for an anti-mosque color], it is multi-colored!” China, Raj was honored at an ebration in Houston. two cultures gives them the best of both parameters for moral and social practices? worlds. Canada has one of the planet’s best Aren’t our intellectuals and policy-makers educational systems, and parents feel for- aware of the social implications of teenage The netherlands’ hindu damaged or destroyed. Initial Founder: Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami tunate that their children have the oppor- pregnancies and fatherless children? Education Foundation opened reports blamed Maoist rebels Publisher: Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami tunity to get a good education. On the other Immigrant parents tend to believe that its fourth primary school in for the murders, but subsequent Editor-in-Chief: Paramacharya Palaniswami hand, children also are more susceptible to young people are not mature enough to August, 2008, in Almere. The police investigation uncovered Publisher’s Aide: Paramacharya Ceyonswami unfiltered cultural influences. The parental know what really is important in life and US hindus are Possibly pearance of forests than it has Shri Ganesha school has 35 a link between Maoists and Deputy Editor: Acharya Kumarswami generation of Asian and Middle Eastern want to shelter their children from cer- marrying fewer Christians in the recent banking crisis. students and is expected to young Christian militants who Managing Editor: Sannyasin Arumugaswami immigrants finds itself in a rare social pre- tain influences. But the children feel their and Muslims than has been The total lost value of forest grow to 200. It is the sixth were attempting to stop the Production Manager: Sannyasin Sivakatirswami dicament: the very quick assimilation of parents do not understand their problems; thought. Informal community “services”—providing clean Hindu school in the country. swami’s successful reconver- Subscription and Distribution Manager: their children into a free society and, corre- parents always seem to be telling old stories assessments have put the rate water and absorbing carbon sion campaigns. The Police Sannyasin Shanmuganathaswami spondingly, the fading of their own values. from the frozen past in a distant land. Assistant Editor: Sannyasin Senthilnathaswami of marrying “out” at 50% to as dioxide—the study estimates more than 100 schools in 26 Inspector General said, “Mao- Rearing Eastern children in the West- Facebook, cellphones and text messag- Assistant Editor: Sadhaka Satyanatha high as 90%. Dr. Dilip Amin to be between $2 trillion and $5 states use in the class- ists were given money to train Advertising Manager: Jothinatha ern world is a great challenge—rather like ing have opened new, unsupervised social ([email protected]) did an trillion annually. While Wall room to relieve stress, says certain youths to eliminate Correspondents: Choodamani Sivaram, Bangalore; growing a tropical plant in the Arctic—and circles for children. A child who sends a text analysis of Macy’s extensive Street lost some $1-$1.5 trillion New York state Board of Edu- Saraswati.” The conflict is com- Rajiv Malik, Prabha Prabhakar Bhardwaj, Madhu requires determination, maturity and toler- message or chats online while a parent sits on-line marriage registry and in its crisis, this $2-$5 trillion cation President Julie Reagan. pounded by tribal rivalries. Kishwar, Delhi; Mangala Prasad Mohanty, Orissa; V. S. ance. Many immigrant parents and their nearby is actually disconnected from the found lower rates. For example, loss recurs year after year. But after Christian parents Gopalakrishnan, Kerala; Archana Dongre, Los Angeles; children have diametrically opposed views family. Parents are ignoring this. 170 of 494 Patels, 34%, married objected to teaching yoga in The Hindu Mandir Executive Lavina Melwani, New York; Dr. Hari Bansh Jha, Nepal; on important family and social issues, such Every generation has its own place on the partners of Abrahmic religions. Sri rangam temple author- classrooms at the Massena, Committee met in Romulus, Paras Ramoutar, Trinidad; Ananta Krishnan, Chennai. as dress codes, moving out before marriage map of history, and it is important for both While interfaith marriages ities near Tiruchirapalli, Tamil N.Y., high school, a compromise Michigan, September 30, bring- Copy Editor: Chamundi Sabanathan. HPI Staff: Janaka and mixed marriages. Many immigrant parents and children to see where they are. among “dharmic religions” Nadu, have announced a deci- was reached to allow an after ing together representatives of Param, Toshadeva Guhan, Easan Katir, Adi Alahan, parents are careful about dietary practices— As a society, we need to help them find safe (Hindus, Sikhs, Jains) are his- sion to demand rent from the school yoga program but not to 113 temples and Hindu organi- Chandra Sankara, Shama Vinayaga. Sanskritist: Dr. P. kosher, halal, vegetarian—but their children passage between the two points. Boundaries torically common in India, in- 3,600 families who live and use the word yoga. Instead it zations from 25 states, Canada Jayaraman, New York. Artists: A. Manivelu, S. Rajam. may not be. Nor can it be easy for Sikh need to be redefined, without prejudice, to termarriage between dharmic own shops on 98 acres of land is called “Raiders Relaxation.” and the Caribbean. Swami Cartoonists: Tom Thaves. Photo Contributors: Thomas parents to welcome a clean-shaven, kir- weave a new social fabric and maintain a and Abrahmic religions can be that was granted to the temple Dayananda Saraswati encour- L. Kelly, Dinodia, Dev Raj Agarwal, Gilles Flament, Vel pan- and turban-less young man into the virtuous balance between the diverse con- cause for concern, as both Islam by various Maha­rajas and later Orissa vhp leader, swami aged the group to make their Kadressen, Mu Devarayan, Indivar Sivanathan. Web family, or for Muslim parents to be pleased cepts of freedom, dignity and morality, with Masters: Nitya Nadesan, Sadhunathan Nadesan. Dis- and Catholicism require chil- ratified by the British. Such Lakshmanananda Saraswati, temples halls of learning for tribution: USA: Ingram Periodicals, New Leaf, EBSCO with their daughter’s Jewish boyfriend, or comfort zones for all age groups, genders dren to be raised in those faiths. lands were given to temples to and several devotees were bru- the youth, as well as altars of Subscription Services, OneSource, Ubiquity. Europe: vice versa. They think these cross-cultural and cultural traditions. This will help build provide an endowment. But in tally murdered in October, worship, in serving America’s SWETS Subscription Service. Malaysia and Singapore: matches reduce the longevity of a partner- a better future for our coming generations. An EU-commissioned study recent decades tenants have not 2008, sparking protests and 2.5 million Hindus. The group Sanathana Dharma Publications. India: Central News ship and subsequently produce more bro- has found that the global paid and left-wing courts sided violence by Hindus across promised to “work as a fam- Agency Limited, Delhi. Mauritius: CODIP. Trinidad: ken families, single parents and neglected mehdi rizvi is an industrial chemist. His economy is losing more money against the temples, leaving the the state that left dozens of ily to restore and further the Pandit Narendra & Ashwinee Ragoonanan. Printer: RR children. A nuclear family needs common editorial appeared in The Toronto Star, June every year from the disap- temples with little income. Christians dead and churches dignity of Hindu identity.” Donnelley, Kansas City, Missouri. values to survive, they believe. 10, 2008. E-mail: [email protected]

sean gallup, getty image; kazuhiro nogi, afp 8 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 9 Publisher’s desk Reaching out: Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami in 2000 hold- ing the magazine he founded to connect Hindus dispersed around the world, to give them a shared global identity, to dispel the many myths and misconceptions and to bring pride of place to the faith

by prominent Hindu historians, and acceptable in content and tone Thirty Years Serving Dharma to the various denominations of the global Hindu community. It, of course, is a popular educational booklet with a distribution to date of We celebrate Hinduism Today’s productive past, introduce a few some 35,000 copies. The first lesson covers the period from ancient times to 300ce. Lesson two of this series, published in the Oct/Nov/ design changes and explore our impact and digital innovations Dec, 2008, issue, covers the period 300 to 1100ce. Additional lessons are planned over the next few years. This is an important way that by satguru bodhinatha veylanswami the editorial staff is reaching out to the broader community, both Hindu and non-Hindu, to present an authentic view of Hinduism that will be understood and appreciated in the West. he idea for hinduism today magazine came been lightened. Those who publish tend An inspiration came to me in 2007 to create a book out of Hin- as an inspiration to Satguru Sivaya Subramuni- to love typography, and our team are avid duism Today. Specifically, I envisioned the best of our Educational yaswami in the late 1970s during his extensive typophiles. They have found a new font, Insight sections compiled into a book called What Is Hinduism? global travels to visit hundreds of far-flung called Relato, which is more distinctive Approached from scratch, such a book would take a large team years THindu communities. His own words tell the tale: “I and legible than the adaptation of New to produce, especially with the level of artistry, research, patience made several world tours, visiting Mauritius, Sri Lan- Caledonia, which we used since 1996. and care that is found in each chapter. The serendipitous beauty of ka, India, South Africa, Malaysia, England and other New Caledonia (used to set this one sen- the project was that the necessary thousands of hours of loving at- countries where I spoke to hundreds of thousands tence) was designed in 1938 by William tention had already gone into researching and designing its chapters of people. I discovered that Hindus in each country Addison Dwiggins of Linotype fame, over the last ten years by our talented team of writers, editors and were totally unaware of, or did not care about, what whereas Relato was designed in 2005 by photographers. All that was needed then, in 2007, was to gather the was happening within the realms of their religion in the contemporary Spanish typographer best features and assemble them in a way that offers a thorough yet other places in the world. Out of these tours came Eduardo Manso. Our team used some highly readable introduction to Hinduism. Voilà! In all, 46 Educa- the mission of Hinduism Today, to strengthen all high-end tools to add diacritical marks to tional Insights comprise the book and create a user-friendly way to the many diverse expressions of Hindu spirituality the font and make some kerning improve- read them versus a pile of 46 magazines! and to give them a single, combined voice, because ments that augmented Relato’s versatile, The book What Is Hinduism? has been introduced to Hindus everywhere else their voices were individualized. legible and graceful presence on the through dozens of my lectures, highlighting the book’s rich graphics Through this magazine, we delineated the boundaries of Hinduism page. When we asked Eduardo to describe Relato from and clear presentations. Thousands have attended these seminars and placed this great and oldest religion alongside Islam, Christianity, a designer’s perspective, he waxed poetic: “Relato has a over these last two years. The book has also been successfully used Judaism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and the many other religions low contrast and ‘muscular’ structure that makes it use- at major Hindu summer camps. The students can take the book of the world. We showed the strength of Hinduism in articles by top ful for setting longer text. In display sizes it has a variety home with them and continue to refer to it, helping them remember writers and some of the finest photographers in the world, such as of details that lend it a unique and personal expression. the teachings over the subsequent months. It is yet another way the for our articles on the Kumbha Mela, the largest human gathering The formal principle of the serif, the variety of terminal magazine is impacting Hinduism. ever on planet Earth. We have been able to bring forward and honor strokes and the combination of curves and semi-straight hinduism today Hinduism Today has become a resource for mainstream America, a ‘Hindu of the Year’ and to listen to the wisdom of swamis and lines gives Relato a more ‘human’ flavor. Relato is a decidedly con- gion and the Media” and “The California Textbook Controversy.” We a place where people can find authentic and reliable information swaminis in our ‘Minister’s Message.’ ” temporary typeface, proposing individual ideas on the design of produced our first major video in 2007, a three-part documentary on Sanatana Dharma, and our editorial team is often called upon for Like Hinduism itself, the message of Hinduism Today, as ar- type.“ on the amazing Thai Pusam festival in Malaysia. It still holds the hard-to-find answers to questions that few other institutions seem ticulated by Gurudeva and the editors, has not changed over its Through our type and tools, our resources and writing, we are record for the most views among our YouTube postings. inclined to take the time to address. Harvard University is engaged thirty-year existence. However, the form the message has taken con- determined to keep Hinduism Today on the cutting edge of com- To extend the distribution of Hinduism Today’s content, we print in a CD-based Pluralism Project which teaches high school children tinues to evolve and improve with computer technology. Our first munication technology as the flagship magazine for Hinduism extra copies of key Educational Insight sections as 16-page booklets about other cultures and religions. Prof. Diana Eck, head of Har- black-and-white newspaper issue when placed next to our latest around the world. that can be purchased online and easily used in Hindu religious vard’s religion department, invited Hinduism Today to participate four-color magazine shows a quantum leap in the use of computer Those efforts are not confined to the world of print. Hinduism classes. One of the most popular is “Ten Questions People Ask in the Hindu expressions. In 1997 the former editor of Christianity technology. And certainly one of the reasons the magazine is greatly Today also enjoys a growing digital presence. We have an HTML About Hinduism.” Back in the spring of 1990, a group of teens from Today, Terry Muck, invited us to collaborate on a chapter of his new appreciated by our readers is its world-class graphic excellence. archive of the magazine available on our website, going all the way Chicago sent a request to Hinduism Today for “official answers” to Doubleday book, A Guide to Religions in America. Readers feel that the magazine’s aesthetic craftsmanship portrays back to 1979. It is an ideal resource for searching back articles, some- nine questions they were commonly asked by their peers. These We often get calls from religion editors in America, and was laud- well the richness and grandeur of the Hindu religion. thing I myself often use. In 2006 we launched our digital edition of questions had perplexed the youth themselves; and their parents ed as a solid source of Indian spirituality in a book published by John Our editorial staff is constantly finding ways to make improve- the magazine. Using an elegant software delivery system we devel- had no convincing answers. Hinduism Today founder Gurudeva Dart of the Los Angeles Times called Deities and Deadlines. Time ments. In July of 1986 we moved the entire production platform oped, you can download and manage all the PDF files of each edition took up the challenge and composed thoughtful answers to the nine Magazine called years back to verify a story on Deepak Chopra’s from process cameras and light tables to that inventive little device, right on your computer. We know of some readers, residing in coun- questions. In 2004 we added a tenth dialog on caste, since that is phenomenal success. Indeed, Hinduism Today has gained a reputa- the Macintosh. In December of 1996 we changed from being a tries where the print edition is not available, who exclusively peruse the most relentless criticism Hinduism faces today. In the question- tion for credibility, access to authentic information and a commit- broadsheet newspaper to a full-color magazine. In 1998 we were the PDF version. The digital version has additional audio and video and-answer session of lectures I give, one or more of these questions ment to objective, unexaggerated reporting. among the first in the industry to adopt computer-to-plate technol- features that enhance some of the articles. is inevitably asked, which shows that the answers provided in this But that’s just the beginning and doesn’t explain why a select ogy, bypassing the old film-to-plate method. Since 2000 the image Our latest expansion is into the realm of video and was launched booklet continue to be useful. committee seeking the Hindu view on the ethics of human cloning quality has skyrocketed as photographers have migrated to ever- in 2008 by opening a YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/hindu In 2004 quite a furor developed around the California State Board for a report to US President Bill Clinton called our editorial offices evolving digital cameras. In 2006 we collaborated with our printer ismtodayvideos). After each issue is sent off to the printer, our edi- of Education’s questionable approval of material on Hinduism for its in March of 1997 or why the Ford Foundation sponsored two of our in Missouri to better control the color calibration and correction tors produce a 10-minute video summary of the major articles, and sixth grade social studies textbook. The controversy still continues editors to join fifty prominent religion editors in the US at a meet- standards. I read my Publisher’s Desk article on camera. Thousands of people in the form of an active lawsuit. Our own response to the matter ing in Atlanta, Georgia, or why we were asked to write a chapter on In celebration of our 30th year, the editors have made some small who have never seen this magazine are learning about Hinduism was to research, design and write a model 16-page lesson on Hindu Hindu medical ethics for the Southern Texas Medical Association... but significant changes. You will notice the cover type and art have through our YouTube videos. Now and then we add recordings of history, beliefs and practices for sixth graders, written from the you get the idea; as interesting as our past has been, we think the been adjusted for better readability, and the page backgrounds have presentations our editors have given at conferences, including “Reli- Hindu point of view. It is historically sound, having been reviewed future is going to prove even more remarkable.

click the play button at the top of the page to hear hinduism today 10 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 publisher satguru bodhinatha veylanswami read his article january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 11 Temple Safety our children to develop a similar strategy marrying couples, love is all that matters. letters The stampede at Jodhpur has come as a shock when they become parents in the future. I have been married to my Taoist Chinese Love that Sari was embarrassed that my Indian coworkers tians. Once we die, we are no longer humans to everyone. How could the state government Ron Higgins wife for the last fifty years, and we never “Jai” to those who wear the sari and the bindi, might come to this country and be quickly or animals but just souls and it is these souls, be so lax when thousands attend the temple Flagstaff, Arizona, USA faced any religious problems. Our children the hallmarks of the Hindu woman. In ur- exposed to the message that many Ameri- regardless of religion or faith, that ascend to every day? They should have made secure [email protected] speak fluent Chinese and Tamil and respect ban settings, especially among the younger cans disrespect their religion. I am used to Rama’s heaven. All good souls, even atheists, entry and exit routes for the crowds. And this all religions. It looks like in Malaysia inter- generations, the sari is practically extinct. It seeing missionary materials because I live in are welcome in Rama’s heaven. follows on earlier stampedes at other temples, Excellent Publication marriages are here to stay, bringing forth new has been replaced by the salwar-kameez or the Bible Belt and Christianity is the accepted Christians may have a better-funded or- also the result of lax arrangements. Now we I came to know about your magazine through and better generations. the western pants suit. The bindi is also fast norm, but I was shocked at how quickly ma- ganization, but we are not entirely helpless. I see the usual giving out of checks to the next the Internet a few weeks back. It is excellent K. Thuruvan vanishing in Indian cities, a stunning devel- terials aimed specifically at Hindus showed call upon good Hindus to wake up and help of kin, but the same money could have been in content and the presentation of Hindu Rasah, Serembam, Malaysia opment of the past decade or so. There was up in our area, because my city had few Hin- as much as they can. With the power of the used earlier to make the temples safe. views and way of life. I felt an inner urge to a time when an Indian girl without a bindi dus prior to this point. This goes to show, I Internet, we can now influence people with Tuneer Bondhopadhyay submit my thanks for the service you are Corrections was automatically considered a Muslim, think, how well-organized the missionary just the click of a mouse. I see a lot of Hin- Kolkata, India rendering. [email protected] Christian or Sikh. Now I find myself asking, industry is. Everyone who does not believe in dus discussing whether Hinduism is dvaita C. Sivaraman ✔ The photograph on page 2o of the Oc- “Is she Hindu?” and feeling disgust at the all- the supremacy of one religion over another or advaita, whether Hinduism is polythe- Pondicherry, India tober issue was by Amit Kumar. A photo on too-common sacrilege. must unite and stand up together against istic or monotheistic. These discussions are Responding to Missionaries [email protected] page 22 showing arati being performed was As for men, if they hurt when the women missionaries who preach that very message. important, but what is more important is to I was raised a Catholic, but never believed flipped. It incorrectly shows the pujari using throw culture to the winds, they must first We need to do a better job teaching others spread the values of Hinduism. Even our own what the church taught. Even as a small Inter-Religious Marriage his left hand for the worship, which would preserve it themselves. Otherwise, “For a about what our religions have to offer—not young are ignorant of the glorious values that child, I could see through the arguments After reading the article “Interreligious Mar- never be done. Rama like you, there will only be a Sita like to proselytize, but to inform. I particularly Hinduism teaches. that everyone needed to be baptized to go to riage” (July/August/September, 2008) by Dr. me!!” will be the irrefutable argument. In agree with the last sentence in that article, Vanamali Thotapalli heaven. This led to me extensively reading Dilip Amin, I would like to give my own ✔ The article on Christian missionar- the streets of Delhi or New York, the dhoti, “The world desperately needs better access to Chicago, Illinois, USA books concerning Buddhism and Hinduism. comments. In my part of the world, Malaysia, ies by Dr. David Frawley was drawn from vibuthi, etc., must see the light of day. India’s wealth of spiritual resources.” Thank [email protected] My three sons rejected Christianity in very Hindus are the third largest population group a dialogue with the Catholic archbishop of Some argue that it is the nature of Hinduism you for all your efforts. short order. As a family, we have established after the Malays and the Chinese. There is Hyderabad in 1997, not 2007 as stated. to adapt to changing times, that only the Jennifer Plunk Dealing with Holidays a coping strategy to deal with proselytization frequent intermarriage between Hindus, spiritual goal is important and not the exter- Georgia, USA The influence of Christianity is a problem attempts aimed at our children. When told Chinese, Toaists, Sabahans, Sarawakians and nal symbols of religion. It rather seems to me [email protected] for Hindus living abroad. Well-educated and they must accept Jesus, or that the Bible is Buddhists. These intermarrying couples face that it is the nature of Hindus to compromise well-heeled Indian Hindus living in the US the word of God, they simply respond, “I do very few problems, religious or otherwise. our culture, slave under the culture of others I was upset and shocked at the outright at- routinely throw elaborate Christmas par- not believe that.” They are repeatedly asked if At Hindu temples in Malaysia, it is quite Letters with writer’s name, address and daytime phone number should be sent to: and justify it all with philosophy. The exter- tack on Christianity by Dr. Frawley. As Hin- ties. Their children brag about who had the they go to church, and answer, “That’s none common to see Hindu husbands coming to Letters, Hinduism Today nals symbols are our protective fences. They dus, we seem to pride ourselves in the toler- biggest Christmas tree and who received the of your business.” pray with their “intermarried” wives, com- 107 Kaholalele Road protect not only us but our entire commu- ance we have for other religions, yet here was most Christmas gifts. As a mother raising Now is the time for everyone to talk to plete with Hindu attire. In Malaysia, women Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746-9304 USA nity, religion and ways of life. My thanks to a representative attacking the cornerstone of a child in the US, I face this problem every their children concerning how to deal with usually follow the religion of their husbands. or faxed to: (808) 822-4351 Hinduism Today for highlighting this point the Christian faith. Yes, many Christians do Christmas. I clash with my husband on the these individuals. It is my belief that by mak- Hence, the issue of conversion seldom arises. or e-mailed to: [email protected] in various ways. send plenty of money and manpower to India. issues of bringing a Christmas tree home, ing this a continuous topic within our home, Couples believe in the concept of one God, Letters may be edited for space and ­clarity and may ap- Prabhu Janakiraman I agree with the statement, but not the prob- buying Christmas gifts, etc., for the sake of it will make us stronger as a family and help and that all religions are good. To these inter- pear in electronic versions of Hinduism Today. Ypsilanti, Michigan USA lem. What we should be asking ourselves is, our children so they are not left out—left [email protected] “What void is Christianity filling for these out of what? A well-educated Hindu mother converts that Hinduism is not?” It’s a tough once chided me when I spoke against the in- I enjoyed reading the article on the sari (Oc- question for the prideful, but our holy books fluence of Christmas on our children. Her re- A Gift from the Heart Begets Many More imagine my life without it.” Shailesh tober/November/December, 2008). You have teach us to not be so arrogant. I believe that ply was, “It is such an innocent, happy holiday. lives in Fallbrook, California, where he done a great job. You are probably not aware we all have been made with minds that think What’s wrong if our children take part in it?” owns and operates a flower farm. of the nine yard saris of the orthodox bramin and make decisions. Far be it from me to look Most people fail to realize the subtle influ- One way to send blessings ’round the world Recently, he gave $500 to the Hinduism ladies, the Iyers and Iyengars of Chennai. My down on those who find happiness in anoth- ence here. We do not take part in the Muslim Today Production Fund, which is a part mother and mother-in-law both wore these. er religion as I have found in Hinduism. or Jewish holidays, so why Easter or Christ- hailesh trivedi was born in the of Hindu Heritage Endowment. “I wanted The bramin style is the most sensuous one. K. T. Bray mas? Hindus should look deeply into their USA in 1977, and grew up with a to help bring to others what has meant When I was at the University of Michigan, Lexington, Kentucky, USA mind set and find out the answer themselves. rare advantage. His parents lov- so much to me. What a great cause, help- snow or sunshine, I clung to my Indian tradi- [email protected] If parents are not careful, our next generation S ingly taught him all the Hinduism ing people be clear in their beliefs, know tions and always wore a sari. will be affected by the glamour and glitter of they knew and, when he was a little tot, who they are and what they should do ! Lakshmi Sridharan These missionaries from outside India have Christianity which surrounds the celebra- they subscribed to Hinduism Today ! The And these treasures, more and more, San Jose, California no knowledge or respect for the diversity of tion. magazine was part of the family—a small Hinduism Today gives away free, re- lakshmisridharan@ India. For centuries tribals have celebrated detail of great consequence, as it happened. sources on their website and their digital lakshmi-sridharan.com Vidya Bhide their tribal faiths in peace in a Hindu India. Ledgewood, New Jersey There were times when young Shailesh edition, for example. I find it inspiring to Now they face the prospect of losing their [email protected] experienced the inevitable second-gen- give so they may give more. My little gift, Against the Missionaries small faiths to a well-financed machine. This eration gloomies. “I knew the basics, at- Sunrise on the flower farm: Shailesh and through their hands, becomes a great big I applaud your magazine for the article “A has already happened in Africa and northeast ✔ Hinduism Today’s founder, Satguru Sivaya tended bhajan and celebrated home puja, his parents among the myrtle. “The maga- gift to the world.” Fraudulent Mission” (October/November/ India. If we stand by and do nothing, we will Subramuniyaswami, developed the festival of but there were gaps,” he explains. “We zine helped us maintain a blissful unity of Please consider donating to the December, 2008) by Dr. David Frawley. I am certainly lose that idea that is India, a place “Pancha Ganapati” for Western Hindus to lived far from any Hindu community and vision and continuity from past to present.” Hinduism Today Production Fund so Jewish but a regular reader of Hinduism where persecuted people, such as the Parsees, provide Hindu festivities for the children dur- there was too much I did not understand. that your magazine may continue to give, Today. I work in the information technology Bohras, Jews and recently the Tibetans, have ing this holiday time, from December 21 to It all became a big blur. I belonged neither and again, I was awed, realizing what a great and give and give. sector in the US. A few years ago when my found safe refuge. They did so because of our 25. Google “Pancha Ganapati” for how your here nor there. I felt disconnected.” culture I possessed. And the magazine was Contact us to receive our Production company started using many Indian con- Hindu ideals and values. family can celebrate the Hindu way during Fortunately, Hinduism Today was al- always bright, light, humorous, with noth- Fund e-newsletter: 808-822-3012 ext.244 tractors, missionary tracts aimed at Hindus It is Hinduism that says God made man a the Christmas season. ways around and, over time, it brought ing ponderous anywhere. It was the perfect [email protected] started to show up in our break room. When human being, but we humans have divided in the clarity he was looking for. “Time teacher, and it transformed me. I cannot www.hheonline.org/ht/plannedgiving/ I found them, I would throw them away. I ourselves into Hindus, Muslims and Chris-

12 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 13 Frank and Ernest © 2004 t h a v e s . r e p r i n t e d w i t h p e r m i s s i o n .

Waste not a minute. Be bold.

RealizeSwami Sivananda the (1887-1963), Truth, founder of here the Divine Lifeand Society, now! Rishikesh

You have been born in this world as a Not until we see the richness of the Hindu on the Laws of Nature. Swami Rama human being to worship God; therefore spirituality can we understand India. Tirtha (1873-1906), one of the first try to acquire love for His Lotus Feet. Lin Yutang (1895-1976), Chinese writer sannyasins to bring Hinduism to America Why do you trouble yourself to know a hundred other things? What will you Faith is like electricity. You can’t Before I came on this earth, I was the gain by discussing philosophy? Sri see it, but you can see its light same. As a little girl, I was the same. I An equation for me has no meaning I think I get enough exercise just for the sake of salvation. Love Him Ramakrishna Paramahansa (1836-1886) shining on you. Anonymous grew into womanhood, but still I was unless it expresses a thought of pushing my luck. Anonymous unconditionally. Sri Ramana Maharishi the same. And, even now, I am the same. God. Srinivas Ramanujan (1887- (1879-1950), South Indian mystic For our cause I too am prepared to die, The highest form of grace is silence. Though the dance of creation will ever 1920), Indian mathematician Sometimes I wish karma could talk... but for no cause, my friend, will I be Swami Chinmayananda (1916-1922), change around me in the hall of eternity, That would take a lot of the guesswork Each Hindu lineage has within it an inner prepared to kill. Mahatma Gandhi founder of the Chinmaya Mission I shall be the same. Sri Anandamayi Wake up and find out eventually who you out of what we do. Randy Hickey, TV sound, a nada of a different velocity, varied (1869–1948), Indian spiritual leader Ma, (1896-1982), Bengali mystic really are. In our culture of course, they’ll character, brother of the eponymous star in pitch and depth. This is . Water is sufficient to cleanse the say you’re crazy or you’re blasphemous, and in the American show “My Name Is Earl” This is parampara. This is nada-nadi In a day when you don’t come across body, but truthfulness alone can The body of Benjamin Franklin lies they’ll either put you in jail or in the nut shakti. This is Hindu mysticism. To hear any problems, you can be sure purify the mind. Tirukkural 298 here, made food for worms like an old house (which is the same thing). But if you Few women admit their age, but this very high-pitched eee sound is your that you are traveling in the wrong and worn book. Yet it will appear once wake up in India and tell your friends and fewer men act it. Anonymous first siddhi. It will bring many benefits path. (1863- Truth is not only Eternal but also unlimited more, in a new and more beautiful edition, relations, “My goodness, I’ve just discovered into your life, smooth out the karmas, 1902), disciple of Sri Ramakrisha and infinite. Sanatana Dharma is very corrected and amended by its Author. that I’m God,” they’ll laugh and say, “Oh, Surrender can never be regarded keep you inspired and on the subtle path, simple and natural because it is based Epitaph on the grave of Benjamin Franklin congratulations, at last you found out.” Alan as complete so long as the devotee strengthening your personal force field (1706-1790), American philosopher and Watts, (1915-1973), English philosopher wants this or that from the Lord. True and that of all those connected to you. politician, who believed in reincarnation and expert in comparative religion surrender is the love of God for the Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami Did You Know? sake of love and nothing else, not even (1927-2001), founder of Hinduism Today Always remember you’re unique, just Hindu Gods in Japan like everyone else. Anonymous basics of hinduism lthough hinduism has few vahana of Vishnu, is known as I do nothing but go about persuading you followers in Japan, still it had the Karura. The japanese tennin all, old and young alike, not to take thought Hinduism’s Second Pillar: Scriptures a significant, but indirect originated from the Hindu apsaras. A of yourselves or your properties, but to role in the formation of Japanese In a massive temple at the Futako he three pillars of hinduism are millennia. The subtly symbolic language of care about the improvement of the soul. culture. Many Buddhist beliefs and Tamagawa area of Tokyo, Lord Ganesha the temples, the scriptures and the Hindu shruti is lyrical and lofty, imparting Socrates, (470-399 bce) Greek philosopher traditions come from Hinduism, is displayed so many times that He Tsatgurus. They sustain and preserve religious practice, rules and doctrine. spread to Japan from China from the even outnumbers the Buddha! the ancient wisdom. If any two were to The Vedas extol and invoke a multiplicity 6th century. Several Hindu Gods are Through Buddhism, many of The first day a guest, the second day a dissapear, Hinduism would come back of Gods through elaborate fire rituals revered in the land of the rising sun. the facets of Hindu culture which guest, the third day a guest, the fourth from the third, as perfect as it ever was. called yajna. The Agamas are specific Japan’s very popular “Seven Gods have influenced Japan have also day a calamity. Indian proverb Here we describe the second pillar, Hindu to each Hindu denomination, centering of Fortune” are partly originated from influenced Chinese culture. scriptures. The holiest and most revered around a single Deity and His worship Hindu deities, including Benzaiten Do not be proud of wealth, people, relations are the Vedas and Agamas, called shruti in sanctified temples and shrines. (Sarasvati), Bishamon (Kubera), and and friends, or youth. All these are (that which is “heard”), both revealed by The array of works known as smriti (that Daikoku (Mahakala). Benzaiten is snatched by time in the blink of an eye. God through clairaudient and clairvoyant which is “remembered”) is equally vast. The specially popular. A text praising Giving up this illusory world, know and rishis centuries and millennia ago. most prominent and widely celebrated are Benzaiten, called The Sutra of Golden attain the Supreme. Adi Shankara, 9th The Vedas and Agamas hold eternal the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. Light, became an important scripture century Indian philosopher and saint truths. They are Hinduism’s primary and Devotees also revere the many Puranas, in Japan used to support the Imperial most authoritative scriptures, expounding which contain Hindu mythology. claim to power and divinity. She is The present is the result of past action. life’s sacredness and man’s purpose on the Moreover, through the ages God- also part of the popular Lotus Sutra. Man is the architect of his future. Satguru planet. They were memorized and orally realized souls have poured forth volumes The Hindu god of death, Yama, (1872-1964), Sri Lanka’s conveyed from generation to generation, that reveal the wonders of yoga and

is known as Enma. Garuda, the most revered ­contemporary mystic then finally written down in the last few offer passionate hymns of devotion. hinduism today sean wilson - wikimedia

14 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 15 CHAPTER Now Available: 2 from the Agamas Chapter 2 of our Hindu India: acclaimed series 300 to The Mandalas and Realization on Hindu History 1100 ce Mystic knowledge of God is imparted to the qualified disciple

During these eight centuries, for Children empires, religion, commerce, ati o science, technology, literature c n Paushkara Samhita is a third-century scripture u a

l d and art flourished in India. e of the Vaishnvava Pancharatra philosophical i s n t In ways vitally important s i g h to Hindus to this day, the system. It guides the worship of some Vishnu The 16-page sixth-grade social studies victoria and albert museum Hindu faith was advanced temples. This excerpt from the first chapter of Dr. by temple building, the booklet from the editors of Hinduism Bhakti Movement, holy texts P. P. Apte’s translation, in the form of a discourse and great philosophers, This is an 8th century South Indian bronze of Supreme God Siva as between Lord Vishnu and Sage Paushkara, Today covers 300 to 1100 ce, a time saints and sages. Nataraja. This divine dance depicts His five cosmic powers of creation, preservation, dissolution, veiling grace and revealing grace. expounds on mandalas, the , the disciple when India was the wealthiest and and life’s ultimate goal, the realization of God. Hinduism Today in collaboration with Dr. Baj­ Note to Students, Parents and Teachers staff of This Educational Insight is the second chapter in our series pai, Professor Emeritus of History, California State University, most populous country in the world Northridge. Academic reviewers: Dr. Klaus Klostermaier, on Hindu history intended for use in US primary schools. ­ During this period, India was the richest region of the Professor of Religious Studies, University of Manitoba; Dr. world and one of the most populous. Great agricultural Jeffrey D. Long, Chair, Department of Religious Studies, Eliz ord vishnu said: indeed, the ocean of abethtown College; Dr. Vasudha Narayanan, Distinguished abundance, plus plentiful natural resources, were key to ­ the region’s prosperity. India lay in the center of the world’s Professor, Department of Religion, University of Florida; Dr. worldly life is impossible to be crossed over by Both Chapter 1 and 2 are available in booklet format ancient trade routes. Merchants sent spices, cotton, sugar Anantanand Rambachan, Professor of Religion, St. Olaf Col and exotic items east to China and west to Europe. Hindu lege; Dr. T.S. Rukmani, Professor and Chair in Hindu Studies, any means other than mandala worship. He is for use in classes. A comprehensive teacher’s guide will religion and culture and the Sanskrit language linked all of Concordia University. Research Assistant: Justin Stein, MA truly remembered as a guru, who, infused with India. Great scientific discoveries as well as major religious candidate at the University of Hawaii and former middle school teacher in New York. movements came out of this advanced and stable society. I -1 be available shortly at hinduismtoday.com/education hinduism today compassion and expecting nothing in return, safely This lesson was written and designed by the editorial october/november/december, 2008 leads an aspirant over to the other shore, the object of Order singly or in bulk for your family, and to L knowledge, by helping him board the boat in the form of the mandala. He is a guru to be placed on par with • Takshashila • Kashmir distribute at religious and cultural gatherings. Ghazni Region Sakala • Afghanistan indiA: gEogRAPHy sECTion Me who recognizes a devotee immersed helplessly in Multan • Of Kings and R Himalayas 1 yamuna Rive sindhu Rive Nepal the ocean of grief and uplifts him with a helping hand Gan I nMathura d o - G R a n g e t i c P l a i n Single copies, US$1.50 • Ga Rive Kannauj • Ra RiveR Prosperity Sindh Region R BRahmaput • Pataliputra in the form of mandala worship. What You Will Learn... Kashi • • • Vikramashila 30 copies, US$15.00 If YOU lived then... Deval • Nalanda Main Ideas You live in a village in a small kingdom in central India. One day you Ujjain • Vanga Region hear that the king of a neighboring realm has attacked your king and vindhya RanGe A glance upon these mandalas brings the same bless- 1. Ancient Indians regarded the Bharuch R Tamralipti • Cartons of 300: $99 subcontinent as one country. conquered the royal city. The conquerer demands that your king pay Valabhi • • naRmada Rive 2. From 300 to 1100 ce, India Somnath • was a land of prosperity a portion of his income. In return, he will allow your king to continue Ellora • Deccan Godava Puri ings as pilgrimage to the holy fords, to the holy places • whose economic, religious to rule, and also protect the kingdom from others. Plateau

R and cultural influence i Rive extended across Asia. Should your king accept the offer? Arabian Sea Manyakheta • R 3. Empires and kingdoms domi- R inhabited by realized souls, to the temples of Gods who ishna Rive • Amaravati nated most of India. Toward Badami • KR Bay of Bengal Phone: 800-890-1008 the end of this period, more Building BACkgRound The 4th-century Vishnu Purana describes regional powers emerged. India: “The country that lies north of the ocean and south of the South are adored and worshiped with flowers, clothes and snowy mountains is called Bharata, for there dwelt the descendants This satellite photo shows India • Kanchipuram ➸ India’s three major regions, its of Bharata. It is the land of works, in consequence of which people i hills GiR principal rivers and the major nil R Puhar e-mail: [email protected] go to heaven, and ultimately attain oneness with God.” Ri Rive • cities of the period 300 to 1100. Kave • Thanjavur ornaments, and to the hermitages of great sages where The Big Idea India lay at the center of the Madurai • Hindu culture, Sanskrit lan- bustling sea and land trade Internet: www.minimela.com (click “booklets”) guage and imperial tradition routes to Europe, Arabia, Persia, Kanyakumari • unified India during this age. Understanding India China and Southeast Asia Sri Lanka oblations are offered to the holy fire along with the The triangle-shaped Indian subcontinent is naturally bounded by ocean on two sides and the high Himalayan mountains on the third. Hinduism TodAy’s Teaching Standards Hindu tradition, scriptures and the Sanskrit language link people Language areas Empires and regional kingdoms chanting of the Vedic hymns. At the same time, any evil from one end to the other of this immense and fertile area. Our India is divided linguistically into two major In 300 ce, an estimated 42 million peo- This column in each of the period, 300 to 1100 ce, was a golden age in India. There was wide- regions. In the north are mainly Sanskrit- ple lived in India, 23% of the world’s Sanskrit three sections presents our spread prosperity and remarkable social stability. Advances were based languages, such as Hindi. In the population of 180 million. Approxi- temptation, evil thought, perverse thinking, bad inten- sabharathnam s.p. subject outline for India and Hinduism from 300 to 1100 ce. made in science, medicine and technology. Many Hindu saints lived south are the Dravidian languages, such mately 60% of the Indian people lived Dravidian 1. Describe the physical and during this time and magnificent temples were built. Hinduism as as Tamil, which include many Sanskrit in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. There were Responses to Lesson 1 linguistic geography of India, practiced today evolved over this glorious period of Indian history. words. This division cuts across the middle many towns and cities, but more than tion, bad motivation, infidelity or heresy present in a Esoteric diagram: Mandala literally means “square.” This is the Maha Vyoma along with population figures. of the Deccan Plateau. Often today when 90% of the population lived in villages. Linguistic Regions 2. Describe the major empires Geographical regions people speak of South India, they mean the As our period began, the Indo-Gangetic and kingdoms, including the There are three major geographical regions in India. The first region Dravidian-speaking areas. These are the Plain again became the most important person is destroyed forever. Vyapi Mandala from the Saivite Karana Agama, comprised of nine lotuses Guptas, Vakatakas, Chalukyas, Pallavas, Rashtrakutas, is the Indo-Gangetic Plain. This vast, fertile region stretches north- modern-day states of Andhra Pradesh, Kar- region of India, as it had been in the past. Pratiharas, Palas and Cholas. east and southwest along the base of the Himalayas. During our pe- nataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. During our From 300 to 550, the Imperial Guptas We agree to promote within the US school system the 3. Discuss the importance of riod, this area was heavily forested. The second region is the Deccan period, regional dialects developed within established an extensive empire from the ACAdEmiC Due to the influence of God, feelings of faith and Sanskrit and the Dharma Plateau, bounded by the Vindhya mountain range in the north and both the Sanskrit and Dravidian areas. Himalayas deep into the south of India. VoCABulARy Shastras in uniting India. the Nilgiri Hills in the south. It contains several major rivers and is Sanskrit was the language of religion, law Samudra Gupta (335-370) was the most autonomy 4. Describe India’s early Arab rich in minerals. The third region is South India, the area south of and government throughout India. Trav- heroic conqueror. The reign of his son, self­rule, devotion arise instantly. Unquestionably, such feelings arise in those The preceptor should impart to his disciple, who is so eligible, the [history lesson] published by Hinduism Today... and to trade settlements and the the Nilgiri Hills extending to Kanyakumari at the tip of India. It has elers could use Sanskrit to communicate Chandra Gupta II Vikramaditya (375-414), independence later Islamic invasions. rich agricultural farm lands. wherever they went on the subcontinent. was the most brilliant in the entire Hindu who have already attained faith. Hence, a disciple should be recog- knowledge of the Self. Seeing that the disciple has fulfilled his duties, enhance the dissemination of it. —Resolution 3 I-2 hinduism today october/november/december, 2008 october/november/december, 2008 hinduism today I-3 nized as one endowed with a host of good qualities, totally absorbed he should then apply him to the ultimate principle and instruct him Hindu Mandir Executives Conference, Aug. 12, 2007 in Him, permanently affiliated to Him and free from any doubts. He to impart the same to those who are scared of the fear of the worldly liFE oF loRd kRisHnA sECTion 3 Leading a may be a brahmin, a kshatriya, a vaishya or a sudra, who is poised life in flux, after having continuously and unwaveringly pondered ...correct, authentic and definitely better than I have on the path of the Self. He may be a bachelor, a householder, a men- the principles of knowledge. The teacher is advised to desert his seen in any school textbook. —Shiva G. Bajpai, Ph.D Sacred Life What You Will Learn... If YOU lived then... dicant subsisting on alms or a woman, who has attained discrimi- mortal body only after he has transferred the knowledge of the Self Main Ideas It is your first visit to the thriving city of Puhar. When you arrive with Director, Center for Asian Studies, California State University 1. Hinduism permeated the your parents, you see not only Hindus but also Jains and Buddhists. lives of India’s people. You observe Buddhist monks debating philosophical points with nation about the Truth. The disciple should be gallant, pure and to a worthy disciple. By that continuity of tradition, the ultimate 2. A great devotional Hindus, but afterwards all having snacks together as friends. The movement developed during this time. king of Madurai, you learn, is a Hindu, but he also shows his religious self-contented, with an ardent desire for realization of the Truth. He sacred knowledge which dispels the darkness of ignorance, which 3. The Hindu religion tolerance by supporting Jain temples and Buddhist monasteries. made it possible for Lord Krishna, depicted at center with blue complexion, celebrates indra sharma anyone to reach God. What is the value of religious harmony? the Holi festival with friends in Vrindavan, a town of his youth

I wholeheartedly and unequivocally recommend its use ➸ should be energetic and resolute, and he should have renounced all destroys the seed of rebirth and which is the embryonic essence of Evolution of temple worship Building BACkgRound: Physical evidence of ancient culture is sparse. The Big Idea Wood, paper and cloth disintegrate over time; bricks and stones are From ancient times, Vedic fire worship rites, mented and yoga, offering an in all official textbooks. called yajna, had been practiced. Families all-embracing means to enlightenment family ties. the universe, does not disappear or lapse. India’s rulers and people recycled. This makes it hard to answer some questions about history. CHAPTER held a tolerant attitude But scientific methods such as carbon dating and DNA analysis are continued to perform these rites at home each and liberation from birth and rebirth THE imPACT TODAY toward all religions. giving new data and correcting wrong theories about ancient times. d a y . Rulers across India held spectacular Vedic through divine grace. 1 ceremonies, including coronations and other The most famous early saints of the —Swami Chidanand Saraswati, Hindu temple Having obtained such a worthy disciple and initiated him into the royal celebrations. Scholars believe that the de- Bhakti Movement are the Vaishnavite worship Key Terms Leading a Sacred Life votional worship of God and the Gods in small Alvars and the Saivite Nayanars. They continues to be performed in Hinduism religious harmony, p. 12 Founder-Chairman, India Heritage Daily life in villages and towns was guided by the principles of shrines existed alongside or even predated Ve- came from all castes and were a voice modern times, path of mandala worship, the preceptor should commit all the dis- Dr. Prabhakar P. Apte has a masters degree in Sanskrit and Bhakti Movement, p. 13 righteous living as taught in the Hindu scriptures. Every day began dic rites e v e r y w h e r e , especially in South India. for equality. Four of the Nayanars enjoy using Sanskrit From puja, p. 13 with a time of worship in the home shrine. Temples were the center Since at least the third century bce, devo- prominence to this day: Appar, Sundarar, chanting and Agama, p. 14 following Ancient Purana, p. 14 of village and city life. Families visited them to worship God and tional worship became increasingly popular. It Sambandar and Manikkavasagar. instructions ciple’s worldly bonds—past, current and future—into the sacred fire. a doctorate in Agamas. He presently holds the position of Research Foundation, Rishikesh participate in festivals and celebrations which were held throughout eventually became the central practice of Hin- While pilgrimaging from temple to from the Agama scriptures. Times the year. Holy men and women were honored. One’s daily work was duism. Some small shrines evolved into great temple, the Nayanars composed poems considered sacred. The people respected all the religions. temples with more complex worship, called and songs in praise of the loving God On annihilation of the host of bonds, the identity with the ultimate editor of the Encyclopedic Dictionary of Sanskrit on Historical The largest civilization in the ancient Hinduism TodAy’s puja.­Puja is the ritual offering of water, f o o d , Siva. These became part of a massive world developed in the Indus Valley ACAdEmiC of India over 5,000 years ago. In the TEACHing sTA ndARds Truth is One, paths are many flowers and other sacred substances to the body of scripture called the Tirumurai. VoCABulARy thousands of years that followed, 8. Explain how Hindu Most kings of this period were Hindus; some were Buddhists and enshrined Deity. Yajna rites, Sanskrit chanting These passionate hymns, composed in truth would commence. The devotee would reach the state of equa- Principles, Deccan College, Pune, India. To order Paushkara India produced many great empires kings maintained adoration under which science, art and philos- I could imagine myself Jains. With rare exceptions, all supported the various religions du r- and verses from the Vedas were all incorpo- the Tamil language, remain popular today religious harmony. deep love and ophy flourished. Out of this rich his- i ng their reign. A Rig Veda verse declares: Ekam­sat­vipra­bahudha­ rated into the temple rituals. in South India. Saints emerged all over respect tory developed the Hindu religion, 9. Describe the Bhakti vadanti. “Truth is one, sages describe it variously.” This means that India composing devotional songs to Siva, nimity on attainment of realization of the Lord, who is omnipresent, today the third largest in the world. Samhita, e-mail K.P. Umapathy, [email protected]. Movement and the Saivite importance of the Puranas, there are different ways to speak of the One Truth that is God. The Bhakti Movement Vishnu, Krishna, Rama and Devi in local worshiper of Siva This young priest is conducting a recommending this lesson for my fire ceremony just as was done in Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Rashtrakuta rulers, for example, not only patronized Saivism Many Hindu saints of this time preached the languages. There was a massive response Vaishnavite ancient times. 10. Describe the importance and Vaishnavism, but also supported Jainism and Buddhism. Rulers importance of devotion to God in what is to this stirring call of divine bliss. worshiper of omniscient and beyond perception; who is characterized by pure of the Agamas and the of the period welcomed Christians, Jews, Muslims and Parsis and called the Bhakti Movement. Adoration for Great teachers and philosophers, such as Vishnu Note to Students, Parents and Teachers presenting the Hindu religion because we believe them to college students. —Jeffery D. Long, development of temple induism oday The Vedas and Agamas are the divinely revealed and most revered This Educational Insight is H T magazine’s be deeply flawed and contrary to the State’s own general encouraged them to settle in their kingdoms and practice their God, known as bhakti, stresses one’s personal Ramanuja and Yamunacharya, were critical response to the controversy in California over the way rule that teaching material must: 1) be historically accurate, worship during this period. Hinduism is taught in public-school history books. It is a 2) “instill in each child a sense of pride in his or her heritage” faiths. This policy maintained religious harmony in society and even relationship with the Divine as a love-centered to the Bhakti Movement. They explained knowledge, truth and bliss; who is free from the states of visibility 16-page lesson on Hindu history, beliefs and practices for and 3) avoid “adverse reflection” on a religion. It is our in- aided international trade. path of spiritual advancement. It comple- how to relate to God through worship. sixth graders written from the Hindu point of view. It is his- tent that this lesson will serve as a model for US textbooks, Ph.D, Chair, Department of Religious scriptures, shruti, of Hinduism, likened to the Torah (1200 bce), torically sound and acceptable in content and tone to the providing an authentic depiction of the eminent history various denominations of the Hindu community. and traditions of the faith while giving 10-year-old Hindu I-12 hinduism today october/november/december, 2008 october/november/december, 2008 hinduism today I-13 The problem with every existing textbook for this grade students justifiable pride in their religion. and invisibility; who is non-attached, like the sky; who is situated level is that Hinduism is presented negatively, incompletely In most states teachers are allowed to supplement the Bible New Testament (100 ce), Koran (630 ce) or Zend Avesta and inaccurately. This lesson is patterned after a typical textbooks with additional material. This lesson may be of- chapter on the Jewish faith in these same books. It delib- fered as a more accurate basis for the classroom study of Studies, Elizabethtown College, PA, USA erately does not follow the specific California standards for the origins and development of Hinduism in ancient India. april/may/june, 2007 hinduism today I - 1 in the heart of the heart of the aspirant; and who is reflected in his (600 bce). There are two principal Vaishnavite Agamas, the intellect. Pancharatra and Vaikhanasa. The Paushkara dates to 300 ce. Reprints available at www.minimela.com/booklets january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 17 US$1.50 each, 30 copies for $15 or a box of 300 for $99 feature story

ters. But when a sannyasin does talk about the protection of God and guru. A gifted speaker his path, it is to encourage others and inspire In 1985 a very different, matured man Rajiv Pratap Rudy, 52, a former high-rank­ seekers. Last year, during the Guru Purnima emerged from the sacred caves. The yogi ing official for India’s aviation industry, ex­ celebrations in New Delhi, Swami Avdhesh­ approached the revered Swami Satyami­ plained, “Swamiji is able to strongly influ­ Under the ananda shared with our reporter some of the trananda Ji Maharaj of Bharat Mata Mandir, ence us, the common people, whether it is blessings of steps of his quest. a beloved former teacher. From Swamiji he a youth or a senior housewife. He interacts Shankaracharya, Swami remembers that it was the year received sannyas diksha, entering his new with us not only about religion, but about all Swami gives 1980 in northern India when an unusually brotherhood, the holy Juna Akhara, Hindu­ of our lives and interests. Swami speaks in a an upadesha to inquisitive young man arrived at conclusions ism’s largest order of renunciate monastics. modern manner, but rooted in tradition.” his devotees that would later guide his spiritual prog­ Until now, he had been free and detached, Many felt an instant connection with ress. He realized he did not understand life, an inner explorer, who gave little thought to the new katha vachak in the late 1980s and nor did those around him. He longed for a the external world. But after donning the early 1990s. The young sannyasin gradu­ truth that, he reasoned, could only be found kavi robes of the sannyasin, he became a ally became popular as a guest and a speaker. at the feet of those no longer influenced by teacher. Accustomed to the practice of mau­ Swami told Hinduism Today that during the world. Thus began his search for a satpu­ na (silence), he had little idea how important those years he was quietly training himself rusha, a soul who had realized the Truth. his lectures would become to so many. to live more attuned to the ancient teachings Wandering for months at the lower rang­ Spending more and more time in teaching of Hinduism, deepening his study of karma es of the Himalayas, the seeker realized he and social work, he became convinced that and spiritual laws, undergoing a transforma­ needed a teacher to guide him, one who was he must become an agent of social reform, tion that would strengthen his conviction spiritually awake and blessed close connec­ not just social help. This, he saw, had to be that seva, selfless service, is the core of what tion with God. The young man, who would done through the transformation of the in­ a spiritual aspirant should do today. dinodia one day become Swami Avdheshananda, dividual, based on the precepts laid down In 1998, Swami’s role as a world-traveling found his guru: Swami Avadhoot Prakash, by Hindu saints of yore. Swamiji became a teacher reached a peak. Around the same a rare and elderly sage, expert in yoga and katha vachak of the Juna Akhara—a speaker time, the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of learned in the ancient sacred Hindu texts. and storyteller—traveling almost incessantly the akhara, the highest leader of the order, Under the master’s tutelage, in the cold inside India and abroad. The katha vachak passed away. Though a few saintly renunci­ foothills of North India, he studied the scrip­ is a master of Ram katha, employing sto­ ates carry the title of Mahamandaleshwar— tures and developed a taste for Sanskrit, the ries, drama, music and debate to elucidate which translates as “supervisor of many language of the Gods. Eventually he received religious concepts. He must be able to speak monks”—only one is the Acharya. The posi­ from his first formal initiation (diksha) as a for hours, keeping the audience immersed in tion is not one of absolute authority, but rath­ naishtika brahmachari, opening doors to the performance, entranced and spiritually er of deep respect. The acharya is the public deeper yoga practices and confirming his as­ uplifted. The best katha vachaks are famous face of the time-honored organization. He piration to one day renounce the world. in the Hindu world, the likes of Morari Bapu guides the spirit of the akhara’s activities and His resolve was soon tested when Swami and Rameshbai Oza, but few are renunciate initiates all new sannyasins joining the order. Avadhoot Prakash Ji Maharaj left his mortal sadhus. In his first years as a Ram kathaka, Swami Avadheshanda recalls, “In 1998, form. The young novice did not falter. He Swami’s gift for oratory and his inborn clar­ the Juna Akhara formally decided to make continued his practices and inner achieve­ ity soon earned him the respect and love of me one of the Mahamandaleshwars. There Swami Avdheshananda Giri, ments, having faith that he remained under eager seekers around the world. was a formal ceremony and a religious ritual, The Hindu HINDU of the YEAR Renaissance Award

phal girota phal he Hindu Renaissance Award was creat­ compassion. Yet others are scholars, ed in 1991 by the founder of Hinduism intellectual champions capable of Today to recognize and strengthen debating deep scriptural truths and Hindu leaders worldwide. Swami Avd­ fighting in many arenas to protect heshananda Giri was presented the award dharma. This year’s recipient belongs He is the charismatic leader of 500,000 sadhus of an ancient in August, 2008, at a grand satsang during to more than one of these categories. T his visit to the Sunnyvale Hindu Temple in Swami Avdheshananda Giri Maharaj tradition who are transforming the Hindu world in India California. Hinduism Today’s representative, was chosen the Acharya Mahaman­ Easan Katir, gave the following short address daleshwar of the holy Juna Akhara explaining the award’s spirit, its history and and has excelled at the task.” By Rajiv Malik, New Delhi largest monastic order into the 21st century. ing you,” Swami Avdheshananda Giri told the choice of this year’s awardee. Previous awardees were Swami ri avdheshananda giri maharaj, Hinduism Today correspondent Rajiv Rajiv. “In 1980, that happened to me.” T he Hindu Renaissance Award is given by Paramananda Bharati (’90), Swami Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Malik investigated the life of this modern- Hindu tradition holds that one should no Hinduism Today magazine to leaders who Chidananda Saraswati (’91), Swami the Juna Akhara, received the 2008 day saint and the influences that shaped him more inquire about the past of a sannyasin inspire, strengthen and reinvigorate Hinduism and its millions of Chinmayananda (’92), Mata Amritanandamayi Ma (’93), Swami SHindu Renaissance Award from into a dynamic leader and a steadfast de­ than about the source of a river. The mea­ followers all over the globe,” Easan Katir explained. “Such peerless Satchidananda (’94), Pramukhswami Maharaj (’95), Satya Sai Baba Hinduism Today. A guru to thousands and fender of Hinduism. ger stream at the beginning of a Ganga or a leaders can come in many forms, reflecting the diverse ways of our (’96), (’97), Swami Bua (’98), Swami Chidananda Saraswa­ an inspiration to millions, Swami Av­dhesh­ Nile says nothing about the river’s greatness, faith. Some are silent sages, mystics who take us to the heights of our ti of Divine Life Society (’99), Ma Yoga Shakti (’00), T. S. Sambamurthy anand has initiated more than a hundred An early yearning for God its torrential waters that feed countries and own being by the force their own enlightenment. Others are tireless Sivachariar (’01), Dada Vaswani (’02), Sri Tiruchi Mahaswamigal (’03), thousand sannyasins, transformed lives with “When you develop a craving to know the give life to millions. Tradition advises that we social workers, servants of Hindus in need, helping children, priests, Dr. K. Pichai Sivacharya (’04), Swami Tejomayananda (’05), Ramesh his social initiatives and led Hinduism’s Truth, the mountains and caves start attract­ should just be thankful for the abundant wa­ villages, the sick and the poor, living the Hindu ideals of ahimsa and Bhai Oza (’06) and Sri Balagandharanathaswami (’07).

18 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 19 This position is designated only by the as­ the by only designated is position This you, it introduces you to your own Self.” were already part of the order and decided decided and order the of part already were his beginnings as a Himalayan yogi. “What “What yogi. Himalayan a as beginnings his demanding social routine, far removedroutine,far social fromdemanding a is It meal. foreach allocated time the even otees. With three to four flights every month to foundation spiritual strong a and cation of arrogance, but I interact with thousands of God reporter, “May our to said He devotees. one willbeappointed from outside.” eyes and observe it. There is nothing more nothing is There it. observe and eyes keeps me alive is my meditation,” Swami Swami meditation,” my is alive me keeps from away days twenty of average an and after Immediately done. was abhishekam’ also became the preceptor for several san­ severalfor preceptor the became also and eyes your close you When vitality. and the main ashram, Swami finds it helpful to helpful it finds Swami ashram, main the the world, at 9am his doors will open to dev­ an­ thefound Swami and centered,remain kind any without this say I and me forgive the for guru of mantle Acharya. new the as chosen also was I that, Patt­ ‘Mahamandaleshwar my which in flow at a very rapid speed. Just close your your close Just speed. rapid very a at flow to work closely with him. Swami Nachiketa Swami him. with workclosely to Giri, Nachiketa Swami like who, nyasins peace bliss, energy, me gives It meditation. swer in discipline. No matter where he is in in is wherehe matter Nodiscipline. in swer nofor and sembled ask saints.No it, one can sit in a properposture,a in sitenergy grow will and says with candor. “I cannot live without without live cannot “I candor. with says plan ahead in detail. Everything is scheduled, dediday.”everypeoplerequiresstamina, It powerful than dhyana. Dhyana gives birth to Giving villages new life As the Acharya, Swamiji assumed the the assumed Swamiji Acharya, the As As the Acharya, Swami Avdheshananda Avdheshananda Swami Acharya, the As akhara’s numerous numerous ­ “This is an era of service,” Swami AvdheSwami service,” of era­ an is “This youth. This will be a higher learning institu learninghigher a be youth. will This Shastras filled. We do them all for the welfare of the of welfare the for all them filled. do We his team. I am grateful to him because after after because him to grateful am I team. his open has he that Sri cate youth who are already talented,” Swa­ talented,” already arewho youth cate der way, this project carries the full forceof full the carries way,project der this generation — next the of obviouslyhemanyongoing of projects, lives Whatevercade. mytransformed.life was meeting ourhave I astrology,these Ayurveda to culture our and attentiontodaytheBhopalout is ­ Project,an in working are who sannyasins other and tion to teach not only book knowledge, but knowledge, book only not teach to tion rnh Or ra i t tah the teach to is dream Our French. English and Sanskrit them teach will that institute “We an enthused. creating aremiji the Juna Akhara, which is well known for its meaningfulHinduism.Thoughto barely ­ un skills in but marketplace, global the of fads minds promising most the educate to reach coordinationthereceive about to ready calls nan ful auspiciously and quickly areundertake Acharya of greatness the is “It shared, Giri successful socialenterprises. society andfor the world.” Service toothers Service but with his cellphone hanging on his hip, his on hanging cellphone his with but primarily, but also Spanish, Chinese and and Chinese Spanish, also but primarily, by that dictum. de ­ one overfor him with associated been “In our Bhopal Project we will try to edu ­ to try will we Project Bhopal our “In One new initiative receiving much of his his of much receiving initiative new One da proclaims. Dressed in flawless robes robes flawless in Dressed proclaims. ­da (sacred architecture), the architecture), (sacred sankalpam - heartedly accepted me accepted heartedly not in the latest latest the in not (decisions) we (decisions) Vedas, Vedas, Vastu Vastu sha­ ­ ­ Avdheshananda, says, “Swamiji has brought has “Swamiji says, Avdheshananda, women initiated as sannyasinis by Swami Swami by sannyasinis as initiated women who live in difficult conditions (see side­ (see conditions difficult in live who Sadhvi Shakti Parishad, and one of the few the of one and Parishad, Shakti Sadhvi countries outside of India, to go out all over all out go to India, of outside countries own their from meals forfoodtheir organic of its methods and has brought extensive extensive brought has and methods its of difference. Bhopal, at learn they skills in specialize or er related institutions. Sannyasins teaching at able. Some are moving out to get education in are good farmers, with enough water availwaterenough with farmers,good are where area an was This there. revolution a also introduce them to nature and provide provide and nature to them introduce also guished from other projects other from guished natana Dharma.” Sa­ the of messagetheworld, spreading the to sent be to them prepare will We farms. ment to preserving the local’s customs and and customs local’s the preserving to ment scientists or doctors engineers, become may otherteractwith professionals pollinateand newgeneration professionalsof whoin­ can notcreateto traditional pundits, but rather a schoolsthese goal is Thetalentscouts. as act theschools bytheJuna run Akhara self-respect, it stands out for the efficiency efficiency the for out stands it self-respect, They values. Hindu traditional with society from selected children are dharma of ship peoplenothad automobiles. seen Today they positive exposure inthe Indianmedia. ­ Distin beginnings).project’s the about bar Pradesh Madhya of part arid an in people help to effort broad a Shivganga, is projects a make always to expected be will they but The candidates for this new ambassador new this forcandidates The The most influential of Swami’s ongoing ongoing Swami’s of influential most The Swami Naisargika Giri, president of the the of president Giri, Naisargika Swami by its commit­ its by and oth­ and ­ ­ “we hadenough water andcrops to stay Jhabua, apoor region of Madhya Pradesh I “ How the Shivganga Project began with us. They give usalot, but they make us where we were. People didnot fight. Now villages are like smalljewels inthe arid help, Sharma extensively traveled and stayed ligence, candor andwarmth. Determined to landscape. The transformation was brought lages afew hours from Indore. Today the dependent on their ways.” Mahesh Sharma city-folk come to help, they donot connect dheshananda, firstvisited Ghatia, just one dreds of volunteers. dotted with impoverished, depressed vil about by the Shivganga project andits hun­ ferent kindof socialwork. realized, then and there, the need for adif quarrels. Butwhen the government andthe food isscarce, andwe have poverty and the customs, traditions anddialect. in many villages, making friends, learning the villagers, but impressed with their intel­ is notorious asdangerously distrustfulof many villages inthe Jabhua area, which neighbors hadto say tenyears ago about strangers. He was shocked by the poverty of ful plan andmuch selfless work. Maps of social worker anddevotee of Swami Av­ “In the old days,” the villagers told him, “It was in1998 that Mahesh Sharma, a Changing the situation began with acare­

rather foreboding warning was allthat tribals carrybows andarrows.” the day time, never at night. There the f you ever need to cross Jhabua, dosoin This ­ ­ The sannyasins contacted ShriRajendra gether to create anirrigationditch; how to digawell; villagers move dirtto­ at asports event;acoordinator teaches Gangamove carrying water; joyandfun top) Alonglineofyoungdevotees onthe Practical upliftment: worship andjoyous festivals. laboring inthe ongoing effort to restructure of people andprovide them with sustain ­ different stages, in1,300 villages, helping to created to plan broader solutions, such as essential for self -reliance.” Hundreds of essential for development. Self -respect is der the blessings of Swami Avdheshananda, amenities of life, including schools, places of able supplies of food, water andthe basic and revive villages. Work isprogressing, at uplift andinspired hundreds of thousands new dams. the dormant capacity of the villagers them ­ from the government, relying primarilyon Rajasthan, for guidanceandtechnical sup­ Prasad, anaward-winning engineer from the villages faced were studied indepth. the region were drawn andthe problems Its mission statement is, “Self-reliance is the Shivganga project was begun inJhabua. selves. A strategy was created that involved no money social entrepreneurs andvolunteers are port. Water scientists were consulted anda With the support of the Juna Akhara, un­

jalsansad(water parliament) was (clockwise from january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today

21

all photos: shivganga project the cities. For centuries their only goal was to entrepreneurs work on the water supply and better cows to creating chemical-free farms for Applied Research in the Apostolate). order; these outlying branches of the family aspiring monk will naturally seek those who feed themselves, but now Swamiji has con­ build a permanent shrine or temple. of ayurvedic herbs. Hinduism’s monastic structure is complex prevent the Acharya from becoming too cen­ reflect his own affinities. Some join San­ nected them to God by establishing Sivalinga “We have constructed 350 to 400 dams,” Swami explained why he feels selfless and organic. Most monks belong to a param­ tral to the structure. During the monumental skritists and masters of scripture; others are shrines in their villages, which gives a higher exults Swami Avdheshananda. And, he adds, service is so important: “Dharma is some­ para (lineage) or a monastic order, such as Kumbha Melas, the mountain-dwelling sa­ drawn to social service or yogic practices. purpose to their lives.” 1,300 new Sivalingas have been installed, thing that has to be imbibed and adopted in the thirteen famous akharas. The Hindi dhus join their brothers of the same akhara Vairagya (renunciation) and the degree of The process is well orchestrated. Work one for each village. “We wanted to develop our lives. We ask that devotees spare some word akhara translates as “wrestling arena” in a surprisingly harmonious weave, populat­ control that the aspirant has over his senses begins by gathering young men who have their faith in God. The villagers themselves time and devote it to projects which serve or place of debate, a reference to vigorous, yet ing vast areas under colorful tents—and new are the main qualifications. “You also have completed a brief formal education and will worked to build them. In the past five years all people, contributing with both funds and friendly, theological discussions. The akha­ sannyasins are initiated by the Acharya Ma­ to be truthful and ethical,” Swami explains. live in the village for rest of their lives. Train­ or so, the whole life of those people has been personal energy. We must treat all people as ras vary in theology as well as size and influ­ hamandaleshwar, usually by the thousands “Your heart has to be full of compassion. ing happens during 3- to 20-day intensives transformed.” While he is pleased with the God. Their cities should be clean and green, ence; most are Smarta in practice, but three in a powerful event. “I have directly initiated You must be connected to your soul. Your in camps. The first step is to train them in results, Swamiji wants to go farther. “Now their water pure. We should offer medical are considered Vaishnavite and a few are around one hundred thousand sadhus in a inner being should be peaceful. If you are team skills and group cooperation. Because we want to provide better education and services and education. We are not claiming Saivite. There is plenty of respectful accep­ period of eight years,” reckons Swami Av­ bereft of desires, you are ready to become a the young men as seen as the heart of the medical help.” The Shivganga yields human­ that we will change the whole world. But we tance for different points of view among the dhesh­ananda. The ordination of sannyasins sannyasin.” village’s transformation, they are taught to itarian results and is also good for Hinduism. want to appeal to the Hindu world. We must groups, and no dominance exists. Other large is perhaps his most important role, for those Once a disciple has been approved for the lead and make informed decisions. In the “Before we went there,” Swami continues, understand that wherever selfless service orders exist outside the akharas, such as the rare souls become Hinduism’s leaders, the lifetime vows of sannyas, he begins a period middle of a remote, quasi-desertic area, they “large-scale conversion was taking place. That exists, prosperity follows. With samskaras Swaminarayan fellowship, the Ramakrishna living embodiment of wisdom and tradition. of intense preparation. Swami Nityananda have classes on sangat (group interaction), has stopped altogether. Before, no religious and education, prosperity is bound to come. Order and the Nathas of South India. Within Giri shares, “Sannyas diksha is preceded by udbhodhan (addressing the public), time events were happening; now we even have People will become self-reliant and self- each akhara, most sannyasins are also asso­ The initiation of new sadhus intense sadhana (spiritual practices), long management, event management, evaluation Hindu priests officiating at festivals. It is confident. They will become strong. This is ciated with one of the dashanami lineages The ancient rules that govern the initiation periods of silence and extended fasts. For the methodology and how to pass on what they with a lot of enthusiasm that I am sharing what I see for India.” (see sidebar on page 24). Adi Shankara, who of sannyasins are found in the Vedas and in final eleven days, we survive just on water are absorbing. And, perhaps for the first time, with you our extensive plans for that area.” originated the dashanami system and did the oral tradition of each monastic lineage. “A from the holy Ganga. We don’t sleep dur­ they see others believing in their potential. Undeniably, Swami’s vibrant personal­ A host of venerable sannyasins much to revitalize and improve the structure candidate could spend anytime from three to ing the final 24 hours either, since sannyas is Shivganga camp training moves from the­ ity has advanced the works of India’s largest “The Juna Akhara is the supreme akhara of of Hindu monasticism, is commonly thought twelve years in the company of sadhus be­ seen as a profound awakening.” ory to action quickly. A typical program in­ monastic order to a new dynamic standard. India in terms of seniority and number of to have founded the akharas as well; but fore he is initiated,” Swami elucidates. “His The initiation, performed in seclusion, is a cludes: 1) How to organize the village; 2) The But he is quick to point out that the coop­ sadhus. It is a huge gathering of saints,” says they actually predate him by centuries. teachers protect and preserve the seeds of pact between the initiate, his guru and God. importance of sports for youth; 3) Identify­ eration within the akhara is so complete it Swamiji with unabashed pride. The number Hinduism’s sadhus are in two broad cate­ non-attachment. They also assess if the bra­ The rites begin with the future sannyasin ing village problems and their root causes; blurs the lines between the organization of Hindu monks in India and abroad is not gories, those who live in monastic communi­ machari’s renunciation is truthful and his throwing into the fire his clothing, his de­ 4) Finding solutions; 5) Establishing a center and himself. “My projects, the Juna Akhara known; estimates range from three to five ties and those who wander or live in solitude. disinterest in the world is firm. It is the Ma­ sires and his former self. In the consuming for worship and bhajans. The initial projects and myself are so merged with one another million. According to the Juna Akhara, its or­ The socially engaged Juna Akhara also has ha­mandaleshwars and the managing sadhus flames he sees the dissolution of his karmas spearheaded by the group are designed to that they are just one for me.” And his team’s der alone claims 500,000 sadhus. In compar­ thousands of naga sadhus and maunis who of the akhara who decide who qualifies for and family ties, his ignorance and doubts. engage and give confidence to all partici­ projects are manifold. They like great ideas ison, the Catholic Church worldwide counts strive to uplift the world by their silent ex­ initiation.” He then vows that his sannyas is not taken pants. First they orchestrate a festival for Lord and small solutions, trying to make India and 460,000 ordained men plus 750,000 women, istence, anonymously blessing society from The training of a potential sannyasin var­ to fulfill any worldly aspirations, and his Ganesha and one for Lord Rama, then hold a the world a better place one step at a time, who are serving full-time and under vows secluded caves. Their lack of involvement ies widely. Most candidates begin by joining head is shaved. In the tradition of the Juna community sports event. Later, the budding focusing on basic strategies—from breeding (according to a 2005 census from the Center maintains a certain fluidity in the monastic the sannyasins in whatever tasks they do. An Akhara, sannyasins make a vow to renounce Swami’s devotees speak their hearts

“We met him due to the will of God. Swamiji is not just an individual. He has A personal connection: (below) Swami Avdheshananda leads a satsang during a full ancient guru tradition behind him. At any time if I need any spiritual Satguru Purnima 2008 at his Ambala Ashram, joined by other swamis and Ma­ guidance, I can always talk to him. He speaks so clearly. The transformation hamandaleshwars. (left) Hundreds patiently wait for a chance to personally meet that has happened to me is that I learned to love everybody.” their beloved guru on stage for a few moments and seek his blessings. Shailaja Nair, a housewife from Mumbai

“My parents and I used to see Swamiji on television, but one night he came to us in our dreams and asked us to go meet him. Since then my life was transformed. In my career I received so many blessings. Today I am a complete vegetarian and I now respect my parents much more. Everything that happened to me is so posi­ tive that I am never going to leave Swamiji.” Shantanu, 27, an operations manager from New Delhi

“My life was a journey of seeking that came to an end when I met Swamiji. Today I finally feel that all I need is within my reach and I do not have to look around aimlessly anymore. I just have to work, improve myself and the things I want to change. Now, whoever I am is because of Maharaj, and whatever I have belongs to him.” Sheel Singla, a housewife from New Delhi

“My whole family have been his devotees for fifteen years. Swamiji has taught us the technique of living. He has given us strength and motivation to work hard in life. He also taught us to live like a family, and we understand each other much better now. He has taught us to love ourselves and help others as we help ourselves. For all this we are so happy to be in his presence. But even when we close our eyes, we can see him.” girota phal all photos: Sonia Jindal, 25, a fashion designer from Punjab january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 23 physics, Ananda Giri is a skilled helper who performs his tasks with devoted zeal. “First of all, I am a disciple of my guru, Swamiji. I do help him as his secretary, but our main relationship is that of guru and shishya. The truth is, I am hardly doing anything myself. It is he who is getting everything done through me.” This selfless attitude, which runs deep throughout this time-honored order, has cre­ ated a dynamic, trustworthy group for Swa­ mi Avadheshananda’s ambitious endeavors. Under the Acharya’s leadership, they are carrying out a mission or service and sad­ hana, one day at a time, molding the future of the glorious Juna Akhara, while honoring its noble history, and holding high the peer­ less standards of Hindu monasticism. ∏π

read more about sannyas vows at www.gurudeva.org/sannyas thomas kelly thomas The spiritual circle’s center: Swami Avdheshananda Giri is the regent of an energetic swarm during Kumbha Melas, as in the 2004 Mela at Ujjain. any contact with fire, which in the old times the truth wherever they go. Paramahansas, was necessary for housekeeping and car­ like Swami Avdheshananda, are grand teach­ ing for oneself. The next step is a samskara ers, who dedicate themselves to en­ performed to liberate his ancestors from all lightening others, having no home or resting obligations toward him and to liberate him place, and never staying in the same place for from filial duties. The rituals continue, and more than three days. the last ceremony in preparation to meet the Though all are vital to society, the dynamic guru is the cutting of the shikha, a hair tuft hansas and paramahansas weild the most at the back of the head that symbolizes status obvious impact in today’s world. This fact is girota phal and respect in society. The fully shaved head exemplified by Swami Ananda Giri, a con­ proclaims that the initiate no longer acknowl­ stant presence in the busy, orange-robed

s. rajam interview edges distinctions between people. Finally, at swarm that usually accompany the Acha­ the banks of a sacred river, the initiate meets rya. Formerly a post-graduate in the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar who con­ fers upon him the mystic ordination called sannyas diksha and the guru . Bring Forth the Dharma Newborn sadhus, ancient paths Lasting work: The contemporary and orthodox Swami Avdheshananda shares his wisdom The Upanishads explain six levels of re­ The Kerala saint nunciation, based on what few monastic lived for only possessions the sadhu has. In today’s Juna 32 years before By Rajiv Malik, New Delhi efficiency seem to be the order of the day in the 21st century’s Juna Akhara, the main distinction is between disappearing ven as a reporter, i was always impressed with the Akhara. I found Swamiji to be sharper and more agile than a corpo- the unfettered naga sadhus and those who at Kedarnath, but majestic and pious presence of Swami Avdheshananda Giri rate CEO. Yet, after attending all the four Kumbha Melas and meet- stay in society to teach seekers and instruct his influence on Hinduism in the few occasions we met. Our first encounter was in 2003, ing hundreds of swamis, I can say that Swami Avdheshananda is families. But among the latter there are clear was deep and lasting during the Kumbha Mela at the city of Nashik where he deliv- one of the most orthodox Hindu saints in India. This can be seen in subdivisions, as Swami Nachiketa Giri ex­ ered a speech in the company of saints and spiritual leaders. I rushed the decorations of his ashrams or in the practices of his devotees. It plains. “During their initiation, the saint [the to the staircase as he walked down the stage, touched his feet and is also visible in his traditional robes and his ever-present personal acharya] passes on the samskaras to them Adi Shankaracharya & Hindu monasticism E handed him a copy of Hinduism Today. kamandalu, a vessel that in the old days was a saint’s only posses- according to their aspirations.” The half mil­ For years, I had wanted to do an extensive interview, and it all sion, used alternatively to hold water or to store offerings received. lion sadhus of the Juna Akhara serve God ac­ finally came together during his 2008 Guru Purnima functions His traditional ways are far more than just outward appearance. cording to the kind of sannyas diksha chosen Adi Shankara (788-820) is a central figure to the Bhakti movement, a wave that swept in New Delhi and Ambala. Devotees from all over the world were His speech is woven with flawless Sanskrit, and what he has to say by each. “Aside from the naga sadhus, there across India in the 9th century and brought many Jains and Buddhists back to Hinduism. gathering for the celebrations in large numbers at his large five-acre is brimming with Hindu truths that I have seldom heard so clearly are the kutichars, the baudhiks, the hansas He was a quintessential nondualist. His Advaita teachings can be summarized ashram. Swami granted me some time over a few days. The inter- articulated in my work as a correspondent. and the paramahansas,” Kutichars are those thus, “Brahman (the Supreme Being) is the only truth. The world is an appearance. There views would take place in his private chambers. Here now, are excepts from that extemporaneous exchange with who live in a kuti (hut), stationed at one place, is ultimately no difference between Brahman and the atma.” He revived and empowered I was not expecting the mix of modernity and unapologetic tradi- Hinduism Today, in which Swami Avdheshananda Giri speaks of and remain available to society as counselors, the Smarta sampradaya, one of the four major denominations of Hinduism. Shankara­ tion that followed. Swami’s speech was articulate, contemporary his life, his order’s work and his vision for the future. guides and helpers, living frugally and fulfill­ charya’s influence and philosophy were perpetuated by the creation of monastic proto­ and relevant, yet not a grain of Hinduism’s cultural richness was lost ing renunciate vows. Baudhiks are intellectu­ cols and centers which remain influential to this day. From Adi Shankara came also the in his translation from the ancient to today’s world. In his quarters, My journey to infinity als—scholars, Sanskritists, learned ones who dashanami orders (Sarasvati, Puri, Giri, Bana, Tirtha, Parvati, Bharati, Aranya, Ashrama where a couple of his sannyasin initiates are always present to help Sannyas is an unending journey. This is a journey which takes us to know the written and oral wisdom of the and Sagara) of which sannyasins from all the akharas are often members, as Swami Avd­ turn decisions immediately into actions, his personal secretary held the infinity of God. The goal is discovery of one’s own Self. When rishis of yore. Hansa sannyasins are teachers heshananda Giri is associated with the Giri dashanami. The akharas and the dashanami fast to his laptop during the interview, using a wireless connec- you realize that everything around you is not the Truth and you who travels as a group of sadhus, preaching system harmoniously overlap in a colorful tapestry. tion to send e-mails and gather information. Professionalism and feel that all that you see is perishable, that all is changing every

24 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 25 all photos shivganga project shivganga all photos

moment, then you start aspiring for the Truth. When the aspiration to educate people on this. We are using my kathas to do it, which is becomes a craving to know That, that intense desire slowly becomes also a form of group counselling. a state of sannyas. It dawns on you. The solitude of mountains and caves becomes attractive. All this happened to me. I moved to the Conversion Himalayan mountains and lived there for a long time. During that All the forces behind the attempts to convert Hindus have in com- The Vedas say that if you deprive anyone of his honor, that is a sin. Tangible manifestations of a saint’s blessings: Scenes of the stay, I realized how important it is to dwell close to satpurushas mon people who are fanatics. They feel they are superior and are We want to protect the rights of even a lion, an elephant and, for Shivganga project, one of the many initiatives of the Juna Akhara (noble souls), those who are awakened and have the blessings of the arrogant about it. Hinduism has no place for all this. We have been that matter, every element of nature, including a cloud. Such nature- under Swami Avdheshanada’s dynamic leadership. (from the left, Almighty on them. Those are the jivanmuktas (liberated ones). Such here for an eternity. I respectfully must declare that ultimately loving is our dharma. Just imagine the kindness and open-minded- opposite page) A new Sivalinga is worshiped in one of 1,300 enliv- people are not much influenced by worldly things. I realized that all religions are panths (sects). The only dharma is the Sanatana ness of our heritage and culture. We are the people who offer milk ened villages; locals enjoy a mandir they built together; a Holi festi- until you come in close touch with such sages, you cannot really Dharma, and all religions are but part of it. The most dire threat to to poisonous snakes. We consider trees as our devatas (village Gods). val organized by the project’s youth ignites vibrant devotion. understand life. This was my experience. That was what took me to Hinduism is conversion. What could be a bigger threat? It is the Hinduism and Hindus are the most nature- and environment- the feet of the great saint Swami Avadhoot Prakash. same whether it comes by the sword or by persuasion. Our whole loving people in this world. motherland the way they should. What are they doing for the pres- country has been divided because of it, and Pakistan and Bangladesh On this Earth, animals have never engaged in widespread killings ervation of the Indian religion, literature, art and culture ? teaching by example went away from us. as we do. Earth has never been divided by them. We are less civi- I am the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhara. My group lized than animals. They have not encroached on our lands; it is we A message About Today’s youth has a few mahamandaleshwars, and our task is to lead and organize Hindutva and ahimsa who have cut down the trees and attacked their places of living. In Today’s youth have a lot of temptations before them, especially thousands and thousands of sannyasins associated with the Juna We have to understand that a movement driven by devotion, faith fact, there is a big debate going on about vegetarianism in the whole in India. There are a lot of chances of their moving in the wrong Akhara, all over India, who are serving the people. Our work, the and improvement of the world is good and acceptable. But when the world. Research has highlighted that the production of white and direction. One example is the tendency of trying to become rich sum of all of our efforts, is to create samskaras, deep impressions movement’s aim is power, it does not become successful. red meat is behind global warming. Our teeth and mouth are not overnight, and doing every single possible thing to achieve it. My in people’s minds. This is not done in the classrooms using the Today Hindus are recognized as important members of society in designed to consume nonvegetarian food. message to the youth is that without hard labor and sadhana, suc- blackboards. We want to shape the devotee’s character. If you have the Silicon Valley, in Los Angeles, in Tokyo, in London, in Paris and cess cannot be attained. A youth must be focused, have the qualities to civilize, educate and discipline someone to obey the law, or if you even in China. Hindus are nonviolent. Hindus believe in the family To Hindus Living outside India of patience and control over his senses, and work hard on both his want a person to keep his equilibrium with nature, then a certain system. Hindus are not aggressive, not attackers. The Juna Akhara has very few sannyasins who can speak English. worldly pursuits and spiritual practices. But to have young people awakening has to be catalyzed in that person. Hindus will never harm anyone. There are four reasons why I say We do not have any direct branches outside India today, though we develop these qualities, we need to have a dialogue with them; we These things can be taught only by example. We sannyasins use this. The first is our principle of vasudhaiva kutumbakam, which constantly visit many western countries. An akhara needs a certain must motivate them. Before we guide the young, we must earn their our conduct, character and thoughts to reshape society. Most of us means the whole world is one family. For us, the whole world is a big respectful protocol, a decorum that is difficult to create in Europe or trust and confidence. may not do this in a very conscious or structured way. But that is the family. Second, par dara matravat, meaning women of others are the USA. For the past fifteen years I have been visiting America. An result of keeping full control over the senses and living according to like our mothers. Hindus are known all over the world to maintain awakening is happening there among Hindus about their religion. My adversities and Aspirations the scriptures. By doing that, we are building the character of indi- the purity of relationships. Third, Hindus believe in sarve bhavantu Today, they show a lot of faith in the Hindu traditions and festivals. In the life of every human being, times come when the circum- viduals. We develop the personality of those who come near. sukhina, let all be happy and blissful. We want the whole world to From the very beginning I used to tell the Hindus outside India stances are not favorable. He feels that he is lacking something. He Our objective is to create harmony, all throughout the world. Since be harmonious and joyous; we want the welfare of all beings. The to preserve five things connected to our tradition and culture: our feels he is not capable. With the blessings of my gurus, I developed it is today’s wrong lifestyle which leads to the world’s problems, the fourth principle is atmavrata sarvabhuteshu, treat others as they language, diet, dress, worship of the Ishta Devata (personal or family confidence and experience. I can face the worst of adversities. sannyasins are teaching people the art of living. would treat themselves. Hindus are the believers in one God. This Deity) and festivals. Language is critically important, and children Adversities could never defeat me. It would be incorrect to say that God is present everywhere and in every being, formless but also on should know our language, too. The way we dress is part of our cul- I am beyond faltering. I also have vasanas and things to overcome. On India’s challenges Earth. Hindus are flexible and generous. They mingle freely with ture. Our identity as Hindus must be fully realized. Even the parents But I have always experienced that the inner presence of my gurus In India and all over the world, everyone fears terrorism. There are everyone. If there is a least harmful community on this Earth, that is are not sure if they are Hindus. They fail to understand most rituals, gave me such strength that when challenges came, I simply stood up also many other challenges, like global warming and the caste sys- the Hindu community. traditions and practices, so their worship falters. I also insisted on and faced them. tem. But in my view, even bigger and more dangerous than all these home worship. If the Ishta Devata is there living in the home with I have worked to realize my dreams of a better world with better problems in India is the problem of bhogwad (desire for things and Our treatment of the planet the family, then there will be discipline. Then our traditions and people. Another dream I have is to convey the spirituality of India to pleasures). We are following the consumerism of the West without Don’t you feel that the laws of nature are being violated? Global values will be preserved. My teachings have been emphasizing these the western world. I want to let them know that Indian spirituality understanding it. This lifestyle of blindly fulfilling desires is having warming, forests cut down, rivers drying up. Chemicals and fertil- five points as central to Hindus living outside India. has the human dharma defined for the welfare of all beings of the an adverse impact on our relationships. This lifestyle is making us izers are destroying the soil. All the glaciers are melting. I have What I want from our Hindus in western countries is to give back world. Only the spirituality of India has the power to overcome any- focus just on ourselves. I think we have to create proper samskaras travelled to the North Pole, and I have seen the angry mood of nature. their due to their motherland. They are not truly giving back to the thing that mankind will face.

26 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 27 ing,” and took written questions from the audience each day to science and to put into practice the values we have learned. When youth answer at the beginning of the next session. Everyone sat quietly as dealing with conflict in our lives, for example, he said that though he told us, “I am not here to change any one of you. Rather, I am here it is good to turn to God for forgiveness, we must first go to those to learn to embrace you all. My job is not to moralize to others but to whom we have wronged and humbly ask for their forgiveness. maintain my own morality.” He is himself constantly in the process With jokes and subtle humor, Bapu engaged each listener, from of self-discovery, and presents Hinduism with the full freedom of the oldest to the youngest. He taught how to deal with the sorrow A Storyteller his own interpretation. He invited each and every listener to do the and difficulties of life with firm resolve. He pointed out that every- same, encouraging the youth to take ownership of being a Hindu. one near Ram was defeated at least once in the story, regardless of I was fascinated by Bapu’s portrayal of Hinduism as a rich and how close they were to him. For example, in battle, Lakshman lost to universal religion—“as vast as the sky, as deep as the ocean and as Indrajit, Ravana’s son, and Hanuman lost to Kumbhkarana, Ravana’s Who Moves Us high as the Himalayas.” I became convinced that I could be a part brother. Bapu said to the youth, “For life to be complete, losing is of something grand and larger than important. Though winning is a Young and old alike flock to life. Bapu praises Hindu culture with blessing, losing is an invitation pride and loyalty, while manag- from God to remember Him.” hear Morari Bapu’s magical ing to encompass both Hindus and I realized that despite what I non-Hindus of all backgrounds and had heard from past kathakaars preaching of Ramayana nationalities within the audience. and adults, I had never experi- Jigar Patel, a senior in college who enced actual improvement in has been listening to Bapu’s katha the quality of my life by simply by Punit Patel for years, said, “Bapu is progressive by listening to katha or doing nature and forward thinking. That is rituals. But at that moment, as entered the cincinnati gardens arena in ohio on why he encourages us to exercise our Bapu offered his perspective July 5, 2008, with great anticipation. This would be my freedom to question beliefs and ritu- on winning and losing, I rec- first opportunity to attend a Ramkatha presented by als so we come to better understand ognized our Hindu dharma is Morari Bapu, one of its great exponents. them.” Bapu encouraged the youth to meant to strengthen us in the Judging from previous kathas, I expected to be almost the think about what was being said and, face of difficulty so we may act only youth (I’m 23) among hundreds of middle-aged adults if we agreed with it, then and only with wisdom and manage our Iand their aged parents. Conventional wisdom in our com- then, should we accept it. However, if emotions through the waves munity is that Hindu youth raised in America are just not we decided to embrace the view, there of sorrow and happiness. I had interested in religion and are not about to sit for three hours should be no delay in incorporating finally understood the words a day for nine days, no matter how talented the kathakar it into our daily life. He advised us, of my guru Sri Sathya Sai Baba, might be. This belief conveniently focuses on our supposed “Keep the windows of your mind open. when he said, “Happiness is an

disinterest in religion rather than on the monotonous man- Wherever good comes from, let it in.” photography sia digital patel sheetal interval between sorrows, and ner in which Hindu tradition has been presented to us. I was I had never before heard a katha sorrow is an interval between fully prepared to encounter adults who would first praise me like this, so vibrant and uplifting. I felt Katha style: A combination of dramatic storytelling, teaching, happiness.” To think that even for attending, then tell me that more youth should have come, proud to be a Hindu. It seemed to me operetic song and insightful commentary on Rama’s life those who were so close to Ram and finally launch into a speech on what is wrong with my as though the Ramayana was fresh had faced defeat in their lives, generation, blaming the mass media, language barriers and off the press. For example, Bapu presented a novel question, “Why is who are we to complain? American culture—but not themselves—for our perceived Ram so often portrayed with the bow and arrow and Hanuman with I am forever grateful to Bapu for introducing me to Hinduism, a failings. a mace?” Bapu said that our Hindu Gods are more than warriors. He large part of my own identity that otherwise would have been lost. Entering the sports arena booked for the event, I removed pointed to the picture behind him of Hanuman in meditation. “The Observing the other youth present, I saw their motivation to pre- my shoes and found a central seat, perfectly situated to see need of the hour,” Bapu said, “is to put down our weapons of exter- serve Hindu culture by their religious activities. Bapu rejuvenated Bapu. Most seats were indeed filled with people of my par- nal warfare and begin an internal battle against our own vices.” our religious beliefs.

ents’ and grandparents’ generation. However, a young girl in photography sia digital patel sheetal There is a common belief that heaven is promised to those who Throughout the nine-day katha, I had asked myself, “What her mid-twenties sat near me—unwillingly dragged to the Bapu in Cincinnati, Ohio: The meditating Lord Hanuman provides hear the stories of the Gods at katha. But Bapu said right off, “I am unique influence has drawn so many young people to devote nine event, I assumed, by her parents. But as she began flipping both a visual backdrop and a spiritual focus for the katha’s nine days making no promises of anyone reaching heaven after the ninth day days to attending long religious discourses?” My question was an- through the pages of her personal copy of the Ramayana, I of this katha. If you have come with such intentions, then get on a swered on the last day. Listening to Morari Bapu’s closing message, had to conclude she was there of her own volition. Suddenly a large Seated in front of an enormous portrait of a golden meditating flight back home!” Instead, Bapu said that the best outcome from my eyes welled with tears. I looked around and saw hundreds of group of youth arrived, nattily dressed in Indian clothes, their japa Hanuman, Bapu softly said, “The topic of this katha will be Manas listening to katha is to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, whether at youth, a generation of us, tears streaming from our eyes, enraptured malas wrapped in shawls embroidered with the name “Ram” and Mithilesh, the mind of King Mithilesh.” The hundreds of youth home, work or school. by his inspired and loving words. The answer to my question was their Ramayana copies clasped like treasures. They took up several responded with a roar of excitement and applause. Bapu outlined his Bapu explained, “The main ingredient in a gathering of the this charismatic man of sixty-two years, wearing a white lungi, ban- rows in front, sitting cross-legged on the floor. It was a space they theme: “Mithilesh, or King Janaka (Sita’s father), is a great and pow- spiritually minded should be love. We also include poetry, songs, yan and black shawl, my precious Bapu. ∏π had reserved, my new neighbor explained, by showing up several erful yogi, a spiritual adept, concealed in the form of a worldly bhogi, Sanskrit and folk songs. Singing together helps hours early. Now, this was exciting! one who enjoys the world. There are seven key dimensions to his us focus on God in the form of love, purity, duty and the Ram katha, a series of discourses interspersed with music, is a yoga: karma (action); gyan (knowledge); prem (love); dharma (duty); ultimate truth.” I enjoyed listening to the old Bollywood Punit Patel, 23, (at left with popular religious event in North India. The kathakar, or storyteller, raj (royalness); brahma (creation); and viraha (longing).” Bapu tunes, traditional Gujarati music, Hindi ghazals and the Bapu) was born and raised is an expert in the Ramayana, a central Hindu scripture which explained how in performing his duties, King Janaka maintained Sanskrit shlokas of Shankaracharya. in Los Angeles, California. details the life of Lord Rama. Each katha deals with a single theme self-control and decency and achieved a perfect balance between I asked Sita Sharan, an avid listener of Bapu’s katha for He attends Boston University, from the voluminous work. I had attended many others, but never devotion and dispassion. years and someone who has studied the Ramayana since with a focus on bioethics. He one conducted by Morari Bapu. Typically, a katha is a nine-day Bapu spoke mainly in Hindi, tossing in a bit of Gujarati for cultural 1970, why she was there. She confided, “Bapu instills a attended the Sri Sathya Sai event held during the evening. Bapu, however, conducted this one in context or humor and quoting Western philosophers in English. Oc- longing, a renewed yearning, for us to do a better job at Education for Human Values the daytime—9:30 am to 1:00 pm—for the express purpose, he told casionally he led the audience in singing bhajanas, folk songs, stan- being ourselves.” In calling us to tabulate our lives and Program in California for 12 us frankly, of making people devote the whole nine days to the katha zas of Ramcharitramanasa or popular religious Bollywood songs. He assess where we are spiritually and how far we need to go, years. E-mail: punitanilpatel@ and not just show up for an evening program after work or school. preferred to call the katha “our discussion” rather than “my preach- Bapu urges us, the younger generation, to act with con- yahoo.com.

28 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 29 TV star: Oprah Winfrey speaks at in the book, Hinduism is hardly mentioned the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards by name. Anyone with even a passing knowledge of Hinduism cannot fail to no- you find many Hindu ideas and beliefs, al- tice this lacking. As Shukla explains, “A New Oprah’s Support Has Wrought Wonders though their source is rarely pointed out in Earth is nothing but a partial rendition of the book. Most of the philosophical con- Advaita Vedanta, but without proper credit ed p. chaudhary, general sec- Chaudhary believes that Tolle actually cepts are credited to Buddhism. Yet, the core or citation. Eckhart Tolle himself, outside of retary of the Hindu Collective is at an advantage when he writes about has clearly been derived from Hinduism. the context of the book, has acknowledged Initiative of North America and Hindu values: “I think no Indian author “The German word for breathing, atmen, is amongst his main sources of inspiration former board member at Rutgers Univer- could write a book like this, because those derived from the ancient Indian (Sanskrit) the teachings of Ramana Maharshi and the Vsity, recently read A New Earth and has a who practice and promote Hinduism word atman, meaning the indwelling divine Bhagavad Gita.” positive opinion of the book with regard just do not have the world view and the spirit, or God within,” writes Tolle. “The fact While Tolle states that his teachings are a to its mention of Hinduism. He offered, modern language proficiency. They just that breath has no form is one of the reasons continuation of the teachings of Maharshi “Overall, I was happy to see that Tolle cited keep repeating the deep Hindu ideas why breath awareness is an extremely effec- and J. Krishnamurti coming together, Shukla Hinduism, Vedanta, the Upanishads and and philosophy in the language of the tive way of bringing space into your life, of finds this a misleading statement. “It seems India more times in this book than Deep- ancients. And those Indians who have generating consciousness.” Now, isn’t that that Tolle is prescribing only the path of ak Chopra did in his books.” the world view and the modern language something that Hindus have always known? raja yoga through short, daily Chaudhary feels that Tolle tries to in- skill generally do not practice or promote On yet another page, Tolle writes: “When in which individuals are asked to step back volve the American public by liberally Hinduism.” I no longer confuse who I am with a tempo- from daily behavior, relationships, situations, interpreting the words of Jesus to agree rary form of ‘me,’ then the dimension of the etc., and reflect upon their Beingness, Tolle’s with the message of Hinduism: “I think limitless and the eternal—God—can express relabeling of the unity of atman and Brah- that’s a good approach because it allows itself through ‘me’ and guide ‘me.’ It also man,” says Shukla. She feels this gives only many Americans to see the messages of frees me from dependency on form.” one part of the Advaita Vedanta approach. Vedanta and Hinduism without prejudice; Perhaps the strongest nod to Hindu be- Ramana Maharshi prescribed a total path thus he is able to convey a radically differ- lief is this paragraph: “Through the present including bhakti yoga (worship), karma yoga ent message of Vedanta and Hinduism to moment, you have access to the power of (selfless service), raja yoga (meditation) and the American public.” life itself, that which has traditionally been jnana yoga (knowledge), to be utilized one Chaudhary feels Tolle is preparing the called ‘God.’ As soon as you turn away from with another as a way of spiritual evolution ground for Americans’ greater acceptance upi photo/jim ruymen upi photo/jim it, God ceases to be a reality in your life, and toward liberation. of Hinduism in the future. He added, spirituality all you are left with is the mental concept of What Shukla finds most disappointing as “Oprah’s support has done wonders in God, which some people believe in and oth- a Hindu who spends her time advocating on this regard. So, even though ers deny. Even belief in God is only a poor behalf of Hindu Americans and Hinduism I wish he had given more In the Church of Oprah… substitute for the living reality of God mani- is Tolle’s reluctance to give Hinduism due credit to Hinduism, on the festing every moment of your life. However, credit. She laments, “He is quite liberal in whole I would like to support there is an even deeper level to the whole his references to Buddhism, and throughout him and promote his book Why does Hinduism get the short end of the stick? than the interconnectedness of everything the book reinterprets select quotations from and ideas in the hope that he in existence. At that deeper level, all things the Bible using Advaita logic. But the word and other western authors are one. It is the Source, the unmanifested Hinduism and Ramana Maharshi’s name are will be more forthcoming in dishinger/wenn pat By Lavina Melwani, New York In the classes, Oprah and Tolle take read- one Life. It is the timeless intelligence that cited only a few times. Unfortunately, this acknowledging and spread- Teacher: Ekhart Tolle, born ho would have thought that ers through the book chapter by chapter, and manifests as a universe unfolding in time.” slight by Tolle is no different than that by ing the message of Hinduism in Germany in 1948, is a talk show host would be able to even lead meditations. “Being able to share Surely, the silken threads of Hinduism leading teachers of today’s yoga movement in America and Europe.” author of A New Earth motivate millions to look within this material with you is a gift and a part of seem to run through the tapestry of the book. in America.” W themselves, reevaluate religion and the fulfillment of my life’s purpose,” Oprah So how have Hindus taken to A New Earth Some say Hindus bring this upon them- ever name—to the printed page and the web Buddhism later sprang. reflect on spirituality? Of course, this is no Winfrey told her viewers when she inaugu- and Oprah’s promotion of it? Hinduism To- selves, citing the many spiritual teachers who and airwaves is a positive happening. Shukla So what would Suhag Shukla say to Hin- ordinary talk show host, for Oprah Winfrey rated the new selection. “It was an awaken- day talked to a young Hindu who has read are Hindu yet decline to label their teachings admits that there are some plus points: “Tolle dus who tell her to read this book? “I have has a ministry all her own with millions of ing for me that I want for you, too.” the book and has strong feelings about it. as Hindu. Shukla adds, “We Hindus for too offers a well-written introduction to one had friends refer this book to me without viewers across the globe. According to Niels- Oprah’s “awakening” wasn’t particularly Suhag A. Shukla is a lawyer who advocates long have allowed those outside the Hindu school of Hindu philosophy, and its age-old realizing that these teachings are not new by en ratings, her show has been number one for welcome to many Christians. As John Jalse- for the Hindu American Foundation. She fold to create Hinduism’s image to the out- teachings are now reaching regular Ameri- any means but simply a retelling of age-old 21 seasons and is syndicated in 135 countries. vac wrote in an article on LifeSiteNews.com, believes that all the negative feedback and side world, and we have lagged in defining cans in an unprecedented way due to the wisdom passed down from our great rishis,” Oprah’s Soul Series on her XM radio show “Oprah, who is a self-labeled Christian, was words of attack about the book are coming our faith to better reflect our actual beliefs popularity and widely-held respect for she responds. “I tell them that if they enjoyed hosts teachers, thinkers and authors to talk recently named the ‘most dangerous wom- from dogmatic and fear-mongering people, and practices. By this we have allowed the Oprah. It is indeed unfortunate that most and found inspiration in A New Earth, they about matters of the soul. She has touched an in the world’ by Bill Keller, considered who foster intolerance. “Oprah has em- widespread caricaturization of our faith will likely never know of the original sources would benefit from going to the source by upon many faith traditions, but none has by some to be the world’s leading Internet braced a path that is, in essence and fact, the and created an atmosphere in which non- because of the lack of credit and, more im- reading the teachings of Ramana Maharshi, created as big a reaction as her espousing of evangelist. He accused Oprah of peddling Hindu philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, and Hindus have become most familiar with the portantly, that there is so much more that Aurobindo, Ramakrishna Mission, Chinma- the book A New Earth: Awakening to Your the equivalent of ‘spiritual crack.’” those who have refused to respect multiple ‘caste, cows and curry’ version of Hinduism. they can learn, apply and benefit from, as ya Mission, Arsha Vidya Gurukulum, Saiva Life’s Purpose by Eckhart Tolle, whose phi- Indeed, looking at discussion boards on paths to God and the divinity in all beings The general understanding of Hinduism, there are immeasurable amounts of spiritual Siddhanta Church and so many others to find losophy seems to have been gleaned for the blogs you find many Christians are un- are lodging the same attack on her that they then, is not based on its deep philosophy or writings from Hindu saints and sages that a deeper and more comprehensive approach most part from Eastern faiths. comfortable with Oprah’s brand of religion, have against Hindus for centuries,” says logic, but on ritual and social and cultural are readily available.” to translate what on first reading can be over- The book was published in 2005, but it where she and Tolle basically say that God Shukla. As she points out, Oprah’s call for practices (and taboos) considered to make Oprah’s charisma has inspired even young whelming, esoteric philosophy into a truly only became a major sensation after it was is one, and the paths to God are many; life respect of the various paths to the one Truth up a religious tradition that is not palatable Indian Americans to take the online course. fulfilling and meaningful way of life.” ∏π anointed by Oprah’s Book Club. A New Earth is eternal and that the stillness within us is not new, not revolutionary and is not the for a primarily Western audience. I believe They rave about the wisdom in it. Some Hin- Author Lavina Melwani, a popular free- is the centerpiece of a free, ten-part vir- is who we are at the deepest level. That is a teaching of a modern prophet. It is nothing we should take ownership of Hinduism and dus, unfamiliar with their own faith, are en- lance correspondent, was born in Sindh, grew tual class on Oprah.com, which anyone can message that Hindus will not find fault with; but “ekam sat vipraha bahuda vadanti” or define it on our own terms.” thusiastic about A New Earth without real- up in New Delhi and has lived in Hong Kong watch. It has already been downloaded by these principles are the very cornerstone of “Truth is one, the wise call It by many names.” Still, the very fact that Winfrey and Tolle izing that many of the ideas have germinated and Africa. She currently resides in New York Oprah fans 30 million times! Hindu dharma. Browsing through the book, While lots of Hindu beliefs are mentioned have brought Hindu philosophy—by what- from Hinduism, an ancient faith from which with her husband and two children.

30 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 31 Family worship: (left) Author’s children in front of the inner sanctum of the Vajreshwari Devi shrine in Kangra district. indra sharma indra runjhun noopur runjhun amit misra My Family’s Goddess Pilgrimage Pilgrimage Area Grandma, mom, aunts, uncles and cousins visit five Durga temples dinodia Holy trekkers: (opposite) The author, age 21, stands third from right with her grandmother By Runjhun Noopur, India sweltering heat of India’s plains, even as we Naina Devi Shail Mishra and mother Vijay Dixit to her left and aunts Kumkum Mishra and Kiran evotees of goddess durga believe satiated our spiritual longing; but as soon as From Chandigarh station, we set out by cab Mishra to her right. Kiran’s husband Amit is behind the camera. Kumkum’s daughter that no one gets the opportunity to we got down at the Chandigarh station, our on an unexpectedly long journey through Shivangi, 11, is at back, and her triplets (left to right) Varun, Rimjhim and Aryan, all 7, visit any of Her 51 Shakti Peethas guide explained that much of the trip was Himachal’s winding, mountainous roads. are in front. (above) Mata Shri Chamunda Devi Temple, Kangra valley. (insets) Goddess D (divine power centers) unless She at lower altitudes and there would not be a Our first destination was Naina Devi, located Durga on Her vahana, the lion. A map of India showing the temples’ general location. Herself sends the call. As luck would have significant difference in temperature from in the district of Bilaspur, approximately 115 it, I was blessed with an invitation from the the plains. Fortunately, the weather, though kilometres from Chandigarh. The lush green Goddess and an opportunity to visit not one, hot, was bearable. beauty of the Himalayan foothills welcomed and souvenirs peculiar to the region—altars After several minutes of experiencing

but five of Her temples. Three are Shakti A practical advantage we had over first- us, and the delight of a clean, pollution-free to capitalism we’d see at every temple. this beautiful inner silence, our senses sud- hinduism today Peethas and all are located in the land of the time visitors was already being well ac- environment was refreshing. We reached the shrine in the evening, denly became aware of the hustle and bustle divine, Himachal Pradesh. Joining me were quainted with a local guide. A trip with such Naina Devi temple is on top a somber- with the intent of attending the evening around. The sound of bells faded away as the here and, for that matter, in all the peethas nine members of my extended family: my a guide is far more convenient and economi- looking mountain. Most of the hundreds of arati worship. It had already begun as we arati came to an end. A long wait to finally as an abstract pindi—a featureless red stone mother, grandmother, two aunts, one uncle cal than a pre-planned and prepaid travel devotees choose to walk two kilometers up entered. The temple echoed with the sound enter the main shrine followed, made less covered with vermilion. The story of the and my four young cousins, including sev- package. Also, even though looking for a a steep pathway or take the ropeway. Since of the bells, conches and chants. As we stood tedious by the delightful chanting of “Jai Shakti Peethas (see sidebar page 35) says that en-year-old triplets—Varun, Rimjhim and guide may seem like a practical hassle, it is we were accompanied by very young kids at the far end of the long queue to the main Mata Di” (“Victory to the Divine Mother”), Sati’s eyes fell in this place, hence the name Aryan. a convenient way of avoiding the fraudulent and also by aged members of the family, we shrine, nothing could really be seen. Yet the by the enthusiastic devotees. Naina Devi, “Eye Goddess.” Accordingly, the We had planned our five-day pilgrim- dealings by travel agents, who are extremely chose to reach the shrine by cab, which took sound of worship drowned the chaos, and The Deity of Naina Devi inside the shrine pindi stone representing the Goddess has age—or yatra, as we preferred calling it—for prevalent in the tourist hots spots in Hi- just 15 minutes. The path to the Goddess was an immense stillness settled all around. It is not a Deity in the conventional sense of prominent and beautiful eyes. Many devo- the month of May. We hoped to escape the machal Pradesh and surrounding areas. flanked by shops selling offerings, flowers was an unsurpassed encounter. a human-like form. She is said to reside tees offer a pair of minuscule silver eyes in

32 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 33 The bed in this room is piled high with rich Chamunda Devi mountain in a flood and ever since has been dresses decorated with precious ornaments. Our final destination was Chamunda Devi, a housed in the current shrine along with After visiting the shrine, we went to the shrine equally important for Lord Siva. Ac- Nandikeshwar Mahadev. It is one of the langar, a free feeding place providing gener- cording to our guide, this site was originally most powerful and fierce incarnations of ous quantities of dal and rice. In addition to only for Lord Siva and called Nandikeshwar the Goddess. the devotees, thousands of poor and hungry The system of queues was well managed, people are fed here daily. as in the Kangra Devi shrine. Every devotee had an opportunity to have a proper view of Vajreshwari Devi the Deity. The pindi of the Goddess is not as Our next destination was Vajreshwari Devi, abstract as in the previous shrines. The tra- after whom the district of Kangra has been dition is that this Deity is so powerful that named, about 20 km from Jwala Devi. The no one can gaze at it directly. Hence, it is original shrine was destroyed by several kept completely draped in a red cloth. invaders, beginning with Muhammad of A novel aspect of the shrine is the De- Ghazni in the 11th century ce, but it has ity of Lord Nandikeshwar or the Sivalingam since been restored to its original glory. This which is located below a huge boulder. This temple was uncrowded and well organized, Devi’s chambers: The shrine at Jwala Sivalingam was found existing here natural- without the hustle and bustle that haunted Devi where the Goddess spends the night ly. A tiny temple was built around it with- us in the previous shrines, and we had a long out disturbing the actual setting. Only one and lingering meeting with the Goddess. Dham. The Chamunda Devi shrine was person at a time can go inside. Despite the In the market here are shops that sell located 16 kilometers away, on top of the claustrophobic space, the temple is full of brass wares unique to Himachal Pradesh. Dhauladhar Hills. This is the place where positive vibrations. Ardent devotees of Siva We saw beautifully designed incense stick Goddess Kali is said to have defeated the de- claim that a distinct sense of presence of the stands, faces of Gods and Goddesses, show- mons Chand and Mund—hence the shrine’s Almighty can be felt inside that sanctum.

photos: amit misra amit photos: pieces and statues. We spent a small fortune name, Chamunda. The Deity or pindi of The area on the river near the shrine has On pilgrimage: (clockwise from above) on these items before proceeding on! the Goddess is said to have come down the been beautifully developed as a theme park The silver Sivalingam at Naina Devi; the wish-fulling tree at Chintpurni bedecked with thousands of red threads tied there by worshippers; triplets Varun, Rimjhim and Aryan pose in front of the four lion vahanas at the Vaj­reshwari Devi temple. The Origins of Shakti’s 51 Power Centers sked about the origin of the 51 Peethas, most Hindus which the practitioner touches various parts of his body while at and tie a thread on the tree as a symbol of would relate the story of Daksha’s yajna, or grand sacrifice, the same time pronouncing a mantra and visualizing a devata (di- their wish and faith. to which he invited all the Gods except Lord Siva. Accord- vine being) or a bija (root) mantra. Nyasa is intended to ‘divinize’ After our tumultuous ordeal to meet with ing to the story, Sati, Siva’s wife and daughter of Daksha, the body of the worshipper.” the Goddess, we spent some quiet time near appears uninvited at the sacrifice to confront her father and Dr. Sabharathnam goes to explain, “At the beginning of the Sri the temple enjoying the delicious suji ka demand an explanation for the insult to her husband. Humiliated Chakra or Sri Vidya worship, six nyasas are to be performed, of halwa, a semolina sweet, served as prasa- A by his arrogant response, she jumps into the sacrificial fire and which peetha nyasa is the sixth. During this nyasa, the priest dam by the temple priests. dies. Siva, learning of the tragedy, destroys the sacrifice, cuts off touches 51 parts of his body—head, face, right eye, left eye, and Daksha’s head, picks up the body of so on—while reciting a bija mantra Jwala Devi Sati and dances distraught across India. and naming the location of one Shakti Our next stop was Jwala Devi, just 30 ki- Lord Vishnu, fearing the consequences Peetha—Kamarupa, Varanasi, Nepala, etc. lometers away. The Goddess here mani- of Siva’s grief, cuts Sati’s body into According to Dr. Sabharathnam, the fests in the form of fire or jwala, emanat- pieces with His discus. As each falls scriptures listing the peetha nyasa pre- ing from a wall. Sati’s tongue is said to have to the ground, it creates one of the 51 date any association with the story of fallen here. Dedicated to the nine Goddesses sacred Peethas, each associated with a Daksha’s sacrifice. He said, “In order to Jwalamukhi, those of “flaming mouth,” the specific body part, from Sri Lanka to link the peethas with the Puranas, the temple has nine permanent flames named the Himalayas. later Puranic writers—that is, after the the belief that they and their family will be shrine amidst much hustle and bustle. The after the Goddesses—Mahakali, Unpurna, Seeking further explanation of 16th century—added the story of Sati’s protected from eye ailments. huge crowd refused to remain orderly, de- Chandi, Hinglaj, Bindhya Basni, Mahalak- this story, Hinduism Today queried dismemberment. The Skanda Ma- spite the efforts of police deployed for that shmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi. All Dr. S. P. Sabharathnam, one of In- hapurana deals at length with Daksha’s dia’s foremost scriptural experts. He yajna but makes no mention of Siva car- Chintpurni Devi purpose. Nobody was allowed to stay in the these flames, or jyotis, have been burning replied that according to the basic rying off Sati’s body, nor do any of the Our next destination, Chintpurni Devi, is shrine for more than two seconds as the incessantly since time immemorial. This Shakti scriptures, such as Tantraraja aad dinodia authentic Shakta Tantras. The story is a located in the district of Una, 100 kms from hordes of people pushed their way inside. It miracle reminds us of the triviality of hu- Tantra, Yogini Hrudayam and Nitya Jwala Devi: Gold-leafed dome of the fire temple fabrication.” Naina Devi. We arrived there at about 11 was only with some luck and skill that we man knowledge and existence before the Shodasikharnava, there are indeed 51 “These later writers,” he goes on, “took in the morning and found a two-kilometer were able to have a proper, though fleeting, infinite and unfathomable powers of nature. Shakti Peethas, one for each of the 51 letters of the Sanskrit alpha- the existing peetha nyasa, in which each Peetha is identified queue leading to the temple. The shopkeep- glimpse of the Deity. The Goddess here, too, According to our guide, several excavations bet. But he disputes their association with Daksha’s sacrifice and with a part of the worshiper’s body, and incorporated it into the ers informed us that today, Sunday, was the resides as a pindi. This shrine has an ex- for the source of fuel were unsuccessful. the decimation of Sati’s body. story of Daksha’s sacrifice. In the process, they created at least most crowded. We waited stoically for our tremely powerful vibration. The priests said The main attractions of the temple are Instead, he says the peethas are related to Shakta or Tantric seven different lists of the Peethas, including one of 108. These turn, even as the kids refused to show an it is a seat of tantra, a mystical and magical the arati sessions—at early morning, sunrise, worship rituals, specifically, the practice of nyasa. According later writings do not tally with the correct list provided in Yogini ounce of patience. Punjabi devotees handing form of worship. afternoon, evening and bedtime. A beauti- to the website, www.shivashakti.com, “The word nyasa means Hrudayam and other authentic Tantric texts. Such fabricated lists out toffees and chips in massive quantities A large “wish-fulling” banyan tree in the ful room has been designed for the Goddess ‘placing’ and refers to a large component of Tantric worship in have been proliferating endlessly from the 17th century.” provided a welcome relief. temple courtyard is festooned with thou- in the spacious temple premises where She Finally, our turn came, and we entered the sands of red threads. Devotees make a wish sleeps every night after the evening arati.

34 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 35 and picnic spot. Devotees can also take a dip in a pool made for that purpose. There are beautiful statues of Lord Siva, Lord Ha- numan and Goddess Parvati. After offering prayers at both temples, the kids with us had a great time boating and playing around in the water.

The Return As our cab once again followed the moun- tainous paths, drifting away from the Devb- hoomi, the land of the Gods, a sense of satia- tion drowned our senses. It was a fulfilling journey, a memorable rendezvous with the Divine. It was more than an excursion, it was a spiritual outlet for our accumulated physi- cal and mental stress. The raksha sutras (protecting threads) tied on our wrists at each of the five shrines carried the blessings of the Goddess. In the wake of the August, 2008, stampede

at Naina Devi which killed 162 people and misra amit photos: injured 400, devotees have become appre- hensive about visiting these shrines. While the hazards of the crowd and the occasional unruly bunch of devotees cannot be ruled out, most of these shrines do have suitable arrangements for maintaining order and security. Incidents like the recent stampede are rare and can be avoided if the devotees themselves behave in a more responsible and aware manner and cooperate with the authorities in taking security measures. ∏π

runjhun noopur, [email protected], is a student of national law school (nalsar), hyderabad and pursues writing as a hobby. she is a regular contributor to the speaking tree column of the times of india

Chamunda Devi theme park: (clockwise from top left: Lord Siva; Lord Hanuman; the family boating in the nearby river

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36 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 dinodia educational insight Parenting with Love An Introduction to “Positive Discipline,” with 14 Proven Strategies for Raising Children without Blame, Shame or Pain won’t get caught next time.” By listening we give children a sense of belonging Positive Discipline Most parents don’t think about the long-term ef­ and acceptance, as this little girl found out while fects of punishment. They don’t realize that punish­ sharing her business plan with Gurudeva On the following pages, one of the world’s foremost ex- ment may stop bad behavior for the moment but may perts on child-rearing presents a practical and compas- result in future rebellion, revenge or sneakiness. Even sionate system of guiding children, complete with situ- when a child becomes obedient, it may be because like to change their ways, but don’t know how. Deal­ ational techniques and secrets that society should teach she has decided (at a subconscious level), “I’m not ing with misbehavior without inflicting punishment, every parent. Drawn from Dr. Nelsen’s books, the upper good enough. Maybe if I obey I will be loved.” This blame and shame sounds good, but how do you do it in portion of these pages presents some key ideas of her can have disastrous results in the future when this the face of a screaming child in the middle of a super­ system, and the lower portion presents fourteen strate- same child decides to do whatever her peers want market? Is there a system that can be learned and fol­ gies. Many of the stories, captions and photos in this In- her to do so she will be accepted. When all their lowed? Are there teachers who provide such training? sight were contributed by Kavita Mardemootoo of Mau- intelligence and energy is directed toward proving Thankfully, Gurudeva discovered the work of Dr. ritius, a parent and avid teacher of Positive Discipline. themselves to others, rebelling or giving up, children Jane Nelsen, founder of a tremendously successful do not develop the perceptions and skills needed to system called Positive Discipline. Jane teaches that By Dr. Jane Nelsen become fully competent and capable people. children should be raised with encouragement, love here did we ever get the crazy idea that children Punishment is designed to make children pay for what they have and respect rather than blame, shame and pain. Here, will do better if we first make them feel worse? Please ab­ done. Positive Discipline is designed to help children learn from what he discovered, was a person who had made nonvio­ W sorb that statement. It doesn’t make any sense at all—yet it they have done in a safe and encouraging environment. We follow lent child-rearing her life’s mission. And, she had de­ is the basis for punishment. the Five Criteria for Effective Discipline: 1) Does it help children feel veloped a system with a proven track record. After Think of the last time someone put you down, humiliated you a sense of connection (belonging and significance)? 2) Is it respectful meeting Jane at his monastery, Gurudeva established and made you feel bad. Did you feel motivated to do better? Did you and encouraging (kind and firm at the same time)? 3) Is it effective a new pattern in his congregation: having parents not think, “This is so helpful. I can hardly wait to bring all my problems long-term? (Punishment works in the short term, but has negative only study her books but also teach Positive Discipline to this person. She is so encouraging?” Or, did you feel like rebelling, long-term results.) 4) Does it teach valuable social and life skills for classes in their local communities to other parents and getting even or giving up? One of the latter is what most children do. good character (respect, concern for others, problem-solving and co­ teachers who struggle with the same issues. I call this the Three R’s of Punishment: 1) Rebellion, 2) Revenge, 3) operation)? 5) Does it help children develop the belief that they are hinduism today We are deeply grateful to Dr. Nelsen for giving her Retreat, which comes in two forms: a) Low self-esteem: “I really am capable? a bad person and need to please others to get love.” b) Sneaky: “I just It is important to emphasize that eliminating punishment does wholehearted support to the use of her materials in My Guru’s Quest for a Cruelty this Educational Insight. The following pages provide a humble introduction to her thoroughgoing series, 14 strategies parents need to know Free System of Raising Children which includes Positive Discipline, Positive Discipline for Preschoolers, Positive Discipline for Teenagers and Positive Discipline A-Z. Visit www.positivediscipline. n the mid-1990s, my gurudeva, satguru sivaya subra­ com for the full array of her resources. Yes, parenting is an adventure, 1. Parents: Look for Improvement, Not Perfection muniyaswami (1927-2001), founder of Hinduism Today, had with constant learning all along the way. Jane says that her consider­ a startling and discouraging revelation. He learned from several able formal education is secondary to the education and experience et’s face it, perfection is an unrealistic ex­ Iyouth among his international Hindu congregation that many she achieved from her successes and failures as a mother of seven pectation, and children would rather not of his family devotees were using corporal punishment to correct children and grandmother to 20. L try at all than experience constant dis­ their children. Shocked that parents supposedly on the spiritual path We hope this Insight will inspire readers to delve into a full study couragement because they don’t live up to an would follow this common, worldly pattern, he immediately set about and adoption of Positive Discipline to help children in your family adult’s expectation of perfection—or their own. to catalyze a change. and community to develop self-discipline, responsibility, cooperation Recognition of improvement is encouraging He devoted the July, 1998, edition of Hinduism Today to disclosing and problem-solving skills. and inspires children to continue their efforts. the devastating, global phenomenon of corporal punishment of chil­ Gurudeva spoke of the spiritual dimension of child rearing: “The A Story from Jane Nelsen: Mrs. Goel’s son dren. Corporal punishment in this context means slapping, spank­ whole world is reevaluating how we treat women, children, the aged Arjuna was getting into trouble at school. His ing, pinching or hitting a child as a means of discipline at home or and infirm. Ways of behaving toward our fellow human beings that teacher was punishing him by having him in school, either with the hand, a cane, a belt or a hard object. Such were normal and acceptable one hundred years ago are no longer ac­ write fifty sentences every time he misbe­ punishment-based discipline also includes other forms of physical ceptable. We now comprehend, as never before, the tragedy of a bat­ haved by talking or being disruptive. Arjuna distress, as well as emotional battering. tered wife or an abused or neglected infant. Shamefully, we do not would refuse to do the sentences—so his Julie Rajan, the primary author of that issue’s feature story, “Sparing always live up to the Hindu ideal in these areas. teacher would double the number. Mrs. Goel the Child, Should Corporal Punishment End?” noted, “Though they “What is that ideal? It is this: Never injure others. Hindu children started lecturing and scolding him. Arjuna don’t say much about it, young Hindu adults today feel deep resent­ are always treated with great respect and awe, for one does not al­ rebelled further by acting like he didn’t care, ment and anger at having been beaten as children. We struggle with ways know who they are. They may be incarnations of a grandmother, and that he hated school. feelings of low self-esteem and failure. Many of us will continue the grandfather, aunt or uncle, dearly beloved mother, sister, brother, re­ Finally, during a parent‑teacher conference, cycle of violence by beating our own children or our spouses sim­ spected father, a yogi or rishi re­turned to flesh to help humankind Mrs. Goel asked what percentage of Arjuna’s ply because we are unable to resolve those feelings. We don’t blame spiritually. As parents and teachers, we must ask, ‘Who are these behavior was “bad.” The teacher answered, mardemootoo kavita our parents, who genuinely loved us and sacrificed for us, for they souls? What is their destiny to fulfill in this life? How can I help?’ “About fifteen percent.” She was amazed to re­ Guided by Positive Discipline, these children of Mauritius are developing healthy self- are themselves just the previous round in this same cycle. We don’t Parents love their children, or at least they should, and the principles alize the negative reputation Arjuna was get­ esteem, competence, significance, self-control, inner security and problem-solving skills that blame our Hindu faith either, for corporal punishment of children is of ahimsa—nonviolence and nonhurtfulness, physically, mentally or ting (and living up to) because more attention will be the foundation for fulfilling their dharma and facing their karma all through life present in every culture. But as advocates of nonviolence, we do claim emotionally—do apply in the parent-child relationship.” was being paid to his 15 percent misbehavior a special role in solving this problem.” than to his 85 percent good behavior. or tutoring another student who needed help. having class meetings, so problems that did Gurudeva was eager to find a way to help Hindu families break the During another conference, with Arjuna Arjuna’s misbehavior was thus redirected occur were solved by the class as a whole. vicious cycle and learn to raise their children without harming them. present, they all agreed that every time he into contributing behavior, and he had very He learned that it is encouraging to children He realized that many parents who do mistreat their children would was disruptive or disrespectful in class, he few classroom problems after that. and to parents when we focus our attention would make up for it by doing something to Working for improvement, instead of on the positive rather than the negative and contribute, such as doing tasks for the teacher, expecting perfection, this teacher began redirect misbehavior into productive efforts.

I-2 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-3 not mean children should be allowed to do whatever they want. We Children Are Social Beings Four Steps for Winning Cooperation need to provide opportunities for them to experience responsibility Children make decisions about themselves and how to behave based Children feel encouraged when they think in direct relationship to the privileges they enjoy. Most parents are on how they see themselves in relationship to others and how they you understand their point of view. Once afraid that if they stop punishing, permissiveness is the only alterna­ think others feel about them. Children are constantly making deci­ they feel understood, they are more will­ tive. Permissiveness doesn’t meet any of the five criteria. Permissive­ sions and forming beliefs about themselves, about the world, and ing to listen and to work on a solution to ness teaches children to believe that love means giving in, and that about what they need to do to survive or thrive. When they are in the problem. Using the following Four Steps the world should bow to their every wish. The Positive Discipline their “survival” mode (trying to figure out how to feel a sense of be­ for Winning Cooperation is a great way to books offer hundreds of alternatives for discipline that are nonpuni­ longing and significance), adults often interpret this as misbehavior. create a connection before seeking to solve a tive and not permissive—and that meet all of the Five Criteria for Ef­ Does misbehavior seem different to you when you think of it as “sur­ behavioral problem. fective Discipline. This Insight presents many of those alternatives. vival mode” behavior? When they are “thriving,” they are developing 1. Express understanding for the Swami Brahmavidyananda: “Hindu culture is kindness. It strength in the Significant Seven Perceptions and Skills. These are: child’s feelings. Be sure to check teaches ahimsa, noninjury, physically, mentally and emotionally. It 1. Strong perceptions of personal capabilities: “I am capable.” with him to see if you are right. preaches against himsa, hurtfulness. My experience taught me that. 2. Strong perceptions of significance in primary relationships: “I 2. Show empathy without condoning I grew up in a simple, humble family in India. My father followed contribute in meaningful ways and I am genuinely needed.” his behavior. A nice touch here Hindu principles strictly. He was closely associated with Mahatma 3. Strong perceptions of personal power or influence is to share times when you Gandhi, who always taught against violence. My parents never used over life: “I can influence what happens to me.” have felt or acted similarly. harsh words or corporal punishment with me or my brothers, not 4. Strong intrapersonal skills: the ability to understand 3. Share your feelings and perceptions. even when we made mistakes. Rather, they guided us by communi­ personal emotions and to use that understanding 4. Invite the child to focus on a solution. cating verbally.” to develop self‑discipline and self‑control. Ask if he has any ideas on what 5. Strong interpersonal skills: the ability to work with to do in the future to avoid the Love and Joy in Homes and Classrooms others and develop friendships through communicating, problem. If he doesn’t, offer some The primary goal of Positive Discipline is to enable both adults and cooperating, negotiating, sharing, empathizing and listening. suggestions and seek his agreement. children to experience more joy, harmony, cooperation, shared re­ 6. Strong systemic skills: the ability to respond to An attitude of friendliness, caring and re­ sponsibility, mutual respect and love in their life and relationships— the limits and consequences of everyday life with spect is essential to these steps. Your deci­ in other words, more connection. We often act as though we have responsibility, adaptability, flexibility and integrity. sion to create a connection will be enough forgotten that sharing love and joy is the whole point of living and 7. Strong judgmental skills: the ability to use wisdom and to create positive feelings in you. After the working with children, and find ourselves acting out of fear, judg­ to evaluate situations according to appropriate values. first two steps, the child will be won over. ment, expectations, blame, disappointment and anger. Then we won­ He will now be ready to hear you when you der why we feel so miserable. The following are some basic concepts The extended family has its own challenges and built-in use the third step (even if you may have that show us how to avoid the detours that keep us from experienc­ strengths for producing relationships of trust and cooperation. expressed your feelings many times before

ing love and joy and satisfaction in our relationships with children. Teaching children respect for their grandparents is essential. dinodia without being heard). The fourth step is

raising children 14 strategies parents need to know 2. Use the Three Rs for Mistakes 3. Spend Time with Your Children

great way to teach children that “Well, don’t tell me later that you are ne important way to help children time with them. You may already spend mistakes are wonderful opportuni­ sorry.” In total reaction, I said, “You feel encouraged is to spend special lots of time with your children. However A ties to learn is to model this your­ don’t have to worry, because I’m O time being with them. Have fun! there is a difference between “have to” time, self by using the Three Rs of Recovery after not.” Mary ran to her bedroom and One primary opportunity for cultivating “casual time,” and “scheduled special time.” you have made a mistake: 1) Recognize your slammed the door. closeness: when tucking children into bed, There are several reasons why special mistake. 2) Reconcile. Be willing to say, “I’m I soon reverted back to my rational ask them to share with you their saddest time is so encouraging: sorry, I don’t like the way I handled that.” brain, realized what I had done, and time during the day and their happiest time 1) Children feel a sense of connection 3) Resolve. Focus on solutions rather than went to her room to apologize. She during the day. Then you share with them. when they can count on special time with blame. It is much easier to take responsibil­ was still angry, and was not ready for You will be surprised what you learn. you. They feel that they are important to ity for a mistake when it is seen as a learning an apology. She had a copy of Positive A Story from Amala Katir: Sita didn’t re­ you. This decreases their need to misbehave opportunity rather than something bad. Discipline and was busy scribbling alize how important one positive discipline as a mistaken way to find belonging and If we see mistakes as bad we tend to feel “phony” in the column. tool had become until one night when she significance. inadequate and discouraged and may be­ I left the room. I knew I had made tucked her two girls into bed and walked 2) Scheduled special sharing is a reminder come defensive, evasive, judgmental or crit­ a huge mistake. In about five minutes out. One daughter, Ravindra, shouted, to you about why you had children in the ical—of ourselves or others. On the other Mary came to me, timidly put her “Mom! You forgot to ask what was the sad­ first place—to enjoy them. hand, when mistakes are seen as opportuni­ arms around me and said, “I’m sorry, dest thing that happened today and what 3) When you are busy and your children

ties to learn, recognizing them will seem like Mama.” I said, “Honey, I’m sorry, too. dinodia was the happiest thing.” Not only had their want your attention, it is easier for them to an exciting venture. “I wonder what I will In fact, when I called you a spoiled brat, I Puja, above, realizes that when she told her previous endless crying and getting out of accept that you don’t have time when you learn from this one.” Self‑forgiveness is an was being one. I was upset at you for los­ mother a lie this morning to save herself bed repeatedly stopped, but these questions say, “Honey, I can’t right now, but I sure am important element of the first R of Recovery. ing control of your behavior, but I had lost from getting in trouble, she was actually asked every night as a remedy had opened looking forward to our special time at 4:30.”

A Story from Jane Nelsen: My signa­ control of my own behavior. I am so sorry.” creating more trouble than the incident a wonderful new world of communication Plan the special time with your children. dinodia ture example is the time I said to my then Mary said, “That’s okay, I was acting like a itself caused. After her parents guided and bonding. Up to age 6, it can be daily. From 6 to 12 it A father in Mumbai creates a rangoli eight‑year‑old daughter, “Mary, you are brat.” I said, “Well, I can see what I did to her through the three Rs for recovering Scheduled Time: One of the most encour­ can be more occasional, even weekly. Brain­ design with his daughter on Dipavali. By a spoiled brat.” Mary, who is very famil­ provoke you to act that way.” Mary said, from her falsehood, Puja is confident that aging things parents can do for their chil­ storm ahead of time a list of things you having fun with her, he builds a relationship iar with the Three Rs of Recovery, retorted, “Well, I can see what I did.” she will not make that mistake again! dren is to spend regular, scheduled special would like to do together then. of trust, affection and cooperation.

I-4 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-5 likely to be effective now that you have created an atmosphere Want kids to behave? Nothing works remember that behind the misbehavior is a child who just wants to of respect. like sharing. Even the simple task of belong and is confused or unskilled about how to accomplish this Swami Tejomayananda: “In a home I once visited, the making sandwiches together creates goal in a socially useful way. Look closely to see if your words and host had two sons. He told them, ‘Swamiji is here. Ask him close ties and gives young ones a sense of actions are causing the child to believe she doesn’t belong or have whatever you want to ask or know.’ The boys replied, ‘We don’t importance and belonging. This prevents significance. have any questions.’ After breakfast I went to them and asked, misbehavior caused by discouragement. The following chart shows the four mistaken goals and corre­ ‘What is your hobby?’ ‘We like to play baseball,’ was the reply. I sponding beliefs that motivate misbehavior. said, ‘Please teach me about baseball.’ Immediately they became with positive encouragement will often enthusiastic about educating me on the game. They showed me be rejected by the child. This is because A Child’s Corresponding some pictures and a video. Gradually they began asking me all children (like most of us) are not always Mistaken Goal Erroneous Belief about religion and culture.” This shows that if you take an inter­ receptive to encouragement when they Undue Attention “I belong only when I have est in a child’s interests, slowly a rapport will build. need it the most. They are too emotion­ your attention.” ally upset to accept it. The solution: wait Misguided Power “I belong only when I’m the boss, or at least A Misbehaving Child Is a Discouraged Child for a cooling‑off period and try again with when I don’t let you boss me.” Sometimes it is difficult for us to remember that misbehaving encouragement. children are speaking to us in code—that they are trying to tell The child who needs love the most is Revenge “I don’t belong, but at least us they want to belong when their behavior inspires frustra­ often the child who acts the most unlov­ I can hurt back.” tion rather than love and caring. Some experts believe we will able. Understanding the four mistaken Assumed Inadequacy “It is impossible to belong. reinforce the behavior if we respond positively to a child who goals of behavior helps adults remember I give up.” is misbehaving. If, however, we understand that a misbehaving what children are really saying with their child is a discouraged child, it is obvious that the best way to re­ misbehavior: “I just want to belong.” It Undue Attention: Everyone wants attention There is nothing move the motivation for misbehavior is to find a positive way to also helps us know what to do to resolve wrong with that. The problem occurs when a child wants exces­ help the child feel belonging and significance. the problem in ways that are encouraging sive attention. In other words, she seeks belonging in annoying ways Accepting this concept intellectually is one thing, but it is while teaching children life skills. rather than useful ways. The behavior is annoying because it comes quite another to put it into practice for three reasons: 1) Most Think of the misbehavior as a code and from the child’s mistaken belief of the moment: “I belong only when adults do not feel like being positive when a child is misbehav­ ask yourself, “What is she really trying I am the center of attention.” This belief adds a sense of urgency and ing. 2) Most adults don’t fully understand how their own mis­ to tell me?” The child is not consciously persistence to the behavior that others find annoying. It can be very behavior can invite misbehavior from children and therefore aware of her coded message, but will feel encouraging to children seeking undue attention to redirect them to are reluctant to accept responsibility for their part of the show. deeply understood when you deal with get attention in contributing ways, such as helping you with a task. Awareness without blame can create a huge step in resolving her hidden belief instead of reacting to the Misguided Power: Everyone wants power. Power is not a bad thing;

conflict. 3) The rare adult who is able to respond to misbehavior dinodia behavior. You will feel differently if you it depends on how it is used. When children have the mistaken belief

raising children 14 strategies parents need to know 4. Take Time for Training 5. Give a Hug

he idea of setting aside time for train­ means being specific about your terms and n many cases adults can help children The next time his son started a tantrum, ing children is not as obvious as it expectations. change their behavior when they stop the father got down on one knee and shout­ T may sound. Too often, adults expect Even when you do provide training, re­ I dealing with the misbehavior and deal ed above the racket, “I need a hug.” His son children to accomplish tasks for which member that children will seldom do with the underlying cause: discouragement. paused and asked through his sobs, “What?” there has not been adequate training. This things as well as you would like. Improve­ Encouragement is providing opportunities The father shouted again, “I need a hug.” His is more typical in homes than in schools. ment is a life-long process. Remember too, for a child to develop the perceptions, “I’m son stopped sobbing long enough to ask in­ Parents may expect children to clean their the things you want them to do may not be capable, I can contribute, and I can influ­ credulously, “Now?!?” The father said, “Yes, rooms, without having ever shown them a high priority for them until they become ence what happens to me or how I respond.” now.” The son seemed totally bewildered, how. Children go into their messy rooms adults with children of their own to guide. Encouragement is teaching children the life but he stopped his temper tantrum and said and feel overwhelmed. It would help if We all do better at things that have a high skills and social responsibility they need to somewhat begrudgingly, “Okay.” Then he a parent said, “Put your clean clothes in priority in our lives. Even though cleanli­ be successful in life and relationships. Such stiffly gave his father a hug. Soon the stiff­ your drawers and your dirty clothes in the ness and manners may not be important for support can be as simple as giving them a hug ness disappeared and they melted into each hamper and then I’ll let you know what is children, they still need to learn these qual­ to help them feel better and thus do better. other’s arms. After a few moments the father next.” Next they could put their toys on the ities. Adults do, however, need to remember A Story from Jane: A young father was said, “Thanks, I needed that.” His son said,

shelves or in toy boxes. To make it more fun, that kids are kids. dinodia frustrated and perplexed about the frequent with a small tremor on his lips, “So did I.” suggest all toys with wheels first, then toys A Story from Jane: A father of eight This adorable child had a habit of drawing temper tantrums of his four-year-old son. Remember timing. Sometimes hugs don’t

with body parts, then toys that are animals, children complained that his son slammed on walls with crayons and pens! Mom Scolding or punishing only increased the work because the child is too upset to give or dinodia etc. Before long, the child has internalized the door every time he left the house. He and Dad tried everything, from time-outs tantrums. The father learned in his parent­ receive a hug or any kind of encouragement. Ashwin was playing in the rain and ignored the idea and learns what is expected. admitted he was ready to slap the boy. The to yelling, but nothing worked. Then Dad ing class that a misbehaving child is a dis­ You can still try. If the child is unwilling, his mother’s call to come inside. He was There is often a great communication group suggested that he take his son over realized it might be a simple training couraged child, and that encouragement is you can say, “I sure would like a hug when­ peeved, and Mom was growing impatient gap. When Dad tells his daughter to clean to the door and show him how to close it problem, so they began asking her the same the best way to deal with misbehavior. The ever you are ready,” and then leave the area. and went out to fetch him. She surprised up the garage, each may have very differ­ carefully—run through it a couple of times, question every day, “What do we all write idea seemed backward to him—sort of like Parents report that when they try this, the her son by saying she was really hot and ent ideas of what this means. Taking time actually train him how to close a door with­ on?” and together they replied, “Paper!” rewarding unruliness. Still, he was intrigued child usually comes after them right away needed a wet hug. They both laughed as for specific training can eliminate the mis­ out slamming it. He came back to class the Soon she learned that drawings are ONLY with the idea that children do better when wanting a hug. he tried to smother her in hugs and kisses. understanding. Taking time for training next week amazed—“It worked!” to be done on paper, NOT on walls. they feel better. He decided to test the theory. Next time he will want to please Mom.

I-6 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-7 that they belong only when they are the boss, their use of power disbelieving or disgusted. When the goal is assumed inad- this child will act out (such as being the class looks like misbehavior. When they operate from the mistaken goal of equacy, you will feel inadequate, hopeless or helpless, asking clown to cover up feelings of inadequacy in misguided power, they are not using their power in useful ways and yourself, “How can I possibly reach and inspire this child?” academics, sports, etc.). need redirection to use it in socially useful ways. A power-hungry Practice observing your feelings and you will catch on to These two clues help parents and teachers child can be shown how to lead others instead of dominating them. how this works. Many parents and teachers have reported break the code of what children are really say­ Revenge: It seems to be human nature to strike back when we that they keep a copy of the Positive Discipline Mistaken ing with their behavior. Even when we under­ feel hurt. This is why revenge cycles are so common. It is ironic that Goal Chart on their desk or refrigerator as a useful resource. stand the motive, it may not be easy to respond adults want children to control their behavior when adults have dif­ It helps them remember the basis for most misbehavior, and wisely. When we encounter a child who is ficulty controlling their own behavior. Controlling your own behavior to be more effective in helping their children during times misbehaving, it is much easier (and normal) is very important to break the revenge cycle. When you are feeling of stress. to react from our secondary feelings of anger hurt, you can avoid striking back. Instead, validate the child’s feelings. Clue number two is to observe the child’s response when and frustration than it is to stop and wonder: Assumed Inadequacy: The child who operates from the mistaken you use conventional methods to cope with the behavior. “What is this child trying to tell me?” In my goal of assumed inadequacy (because of a mistaken belief about her Here is a guide: Undue Attention: The child stops for a book, we also explain a technique of asking capabilities) may not cause you many problems during the day, but while, but soon resumes the same (or some other) behavior strategic questions of the child to determine may haunt you at night when you have time to think about how she to get your attention. Misguided Power: The child continues the hidden motives of her behavior. One fur­ seems to have given up. Unlike the child who says, “I can’t,” just to misbehaving and may verbally defy or passively resist your ther complexity is that a child may be motivat­ get you to pay attention, the child operating from assumed inad­ request to stop. This can easily escalate to a power struggle ed by more than one mistaken goal at time! equacy really believes she can’t. You need to take time to show her between you and the child. Revenge: The child retaliates a small step. Don’t do all the steps. Having too much done for her by doing something destructive or saying something hurt­ Effective Intervention could be what gave her the impression that she is inadequate. “I’ll ful. This may escalate to a revenge cycle between you and Once you know the mistaken goal (and the be­ show you how to tie one shoe, and then you can show me what you the child. Assumed Inadequacy: The child usually is passive, lief behind it), you can choose an effective strat­ have learned and let me know if you need more help.” hoping you will soon give up and leave him alone. Sometimes egy to create a connection with children and help them achieve their true goal of belonging Clues for Identifying Mistaken Goals and significance. Here are some basic remedies. There are two clues adults can use to help identify the goal. Clue It’s natural for siblings to compete, and even to fight. One number one is to examine your emotional reaction. Ask yourself, way to defuse battles is to restrain your own emotions, when the goal is Undue Attention “Underneath my anger or frustration, am I feeling annoyed, threat­ and not put down one child in front of the other or 1) Redirect the child into contributing behav­ ened, disappointed or inadequate?” If the child’s mistaken goal is un- blame either of them. Instead, end the activity they ior. 2) Do the unexpected. A big hug is often due attention, you will feel irritation, worry, guilt or annoyance. If were involved in before the conflict and send each to a effective. 3) Set up a schedule for special time it is misguided power, you will feel threatened, challenged, provoked favorite place for some alone time. Soon they will get with the child on a regular basis. 4) Smile in

or defeated. If revenge is the goal, you will feel hurt, disappointed, the idea that fighting in this family is not appropriate. dinodia a knowing way that communicates you are

positive discipline 14 strategies parents need to know 6. Give Encouragement Freely 7. Establish Routine Charts

se encouragement to help children she would lose everything if she he more children do for themselves, was time to get ready for bed, she always in­ develop a sense of belonging, secu­ didn’t come out with the perfect the more capable and encouraged they sisted on staying up like Mom and Dad. The U rity, love and acceptance. They mis­ score. If she didn’t, would her parents T feel. One of the best ways to avoid six-year-old would hold on to the sofa and behave because they don’t feel this belong­ still beam when they looked at her? bedtime hassles and morning hassles is to scream until she got her way. As a result, she ing. Celebrate each step in the direction of Probably not. She had to earn their get children involved in creating routine had difficulty waking up in the morning for improvement (rather than focusing on mis­ love or she would lose it, she said charts. Start by having your child make a list school and sometimes even fell asleep at her takes). Give positive feedback at every oppor­ again to herself as she re-opened her of all the things she needs to do before going desk. All this left her moody and irritable. tunity. Communication is important. Don’t English book. to bed. The list might include: pick up toys, One day Mom read about routine charts, assume the child knows you love and care Hours later she was awakened with snack, bath, jammies, brush teeth, choose and their wonderful potential to make chil­ about him or that you are pleased when he a soft touch. She found herself face clothes for the next morning, bedtime story dren happier and healthier. When Aruna does something right. You need to express down on her book. She must have and hugs. Copy (or when children are old came home from school the next day, Mom these feelings. fallen asleep. Confused, she looked up enough let them copy) all the items onto a had big white paper with color pens, glitter A Story from Kavita: Priya was working to see both her parents standing by chart. Then hang the chart on a wall where and cut outs all over the kitchen table. Of hard one night studying for her exams. Ac­ her side. Her father gathered her into she can reach it. Let the routine chart be the course, Aruna wanted to help! Before long, to

tually, she had been working hard every day his arms as if she were five again and mardemootoo kavita boss. Instead of telling your child what to do, her own amazement, she had created a fun- and night for the last year and she was com­ sat on her bed, her mother following. She felt Basanti had the habit of putting her school ask, “What is next on your routine chart?” looking bedtime chart! She couldn’t wait to pletely exhausted. It seemed as though her so safe, and in gentle voices her parents reas­ work off until the last minute. One day her Often, she will tell you without your asking. start putting the gold stars in the squares. mind couldn’t retain one more word! At the sured her that they would always be her ref­ parents took her out for a milkshake, and had Remember, the goal is to help children feel Mom told her that when the small hand age of seventeen she knew that her parents uge. She was trying her best, and no matter her look around at the people and consider capable and encouraged. A nice fringe ben­ on the clock reached the 8, she could start loved her—well, at least until the exam, she what the outcome of the exam, they would their many walks of life. They explained that, efit is that you will be able to stop nagging following the chart. It was so much fun that thought to herself. Mom and Dad wanted support and help her. Tears rolled down Pri­ through her schooling, she has the power to and will experience more peaceful bedtimes she actually looked forward to getting ready

her to be in the top ten in her class, so she ya’s eyes and she felt more determined than open many doors for her future. Since then, and mornings. for bed. By the time the newness wore out mardemootoo kavita would get into the best university. They told ever, feeling a new strength surging through with the strong support of her family, she A Story from Kavita: Aruna, an only and she was no longer impressed by the Like Aruna in the story, Jayendra loves his her it was for her own good, for her future, her. Even young adults need encouragement spends long hours studying—knowing that child, was always around grown-ups, so she chart, she had developed a strong routine routine chart. Completing it each day makes but the pressure of it all made her feel that to face life’s challenges. failure is okay, but not trying is unacceptable. thought she was all grown up, too. When it and bedtime was no longer a hassle. him feel competent and independent.

I-8 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-9 not “going to get hooked into this,” and then say, “I’m looking for­ control. Effective remedies include the following: 1) Withdraw from for your own contribution to the problem. The ward to our special time at six o’clock.” 5) Set up nonverbal signals the revenge cycle by avoiding retaliation. 2) Make a guess about best way to teach these attitudes to children is with your child in advance: a hand over your heart to signal, “I love what has hurt the child and show empathy. Validate the hurt feel­ by modeling them yourself. you,” or a hand cupped to your ear to signal you are ready to listen ings. 3) Use reflective listening. Get into the child’s world by reflect­ Tara Katir: “We cannot teach Positive Dis­ when the whining stops. 6) Give reassurance and show faith. “I love ing back what you are hearing, “You sound very hurt.” Reflective lis­ cipline without establishing rapport. Develop­ you, and I know you can handle this yourself.” 7) Ignore the behavior tening can include curiosity questions, “Can you tell me more? Then ing rapport means spending time doing things (but not the child) by placing your hand on his shoulder in a car­ what happened? How did that make you feel?” The goal is to avoid together and talking with your children at their ing manner while continuing your activity. 8) During pleasant mo­ sharing your point of view and to understand the child’s point of level about things they want to talk about. Of­ ments, take time for training and role play other ways to behave, view. 4) Use the Three Rs of Recovery if you caused the hurt. 5) Use ten this can be achieved by just being together such as using words instead of whining. 9) Verbalize love and caring. the four steps for winning cooperation. 6) After a cooling-off period, silently, or simply feeling the good bond of par­ engage the child in one‑to‑one problem solving. 7) Show you care ent and child while enjoying an activity. Rap­ when the goal is Misguided Power and give encouragement. 8) Set up a schedule for special time with port can easily be broken. Speaking sharply can Withdraw from the power struggle to allow for a cooling‑off period; the child. 9) Verbalize love and caring. break it. Then it needs to be repaired.” then do one of the following: 1) Admit you can’t make the child do anything and ask her for help in finding a solution that works for When the goal is assumed inadequacy What We Do Is Never as both of you. 2) Use the four steps for winning cooperation. 3) Fol­ Remember that the child is not inadequate, but will continue to act Important as How We Do It low up with a one‑to‑one problem-solving session. 4) Redirect the inadequate until she gives up her belief that she is. Here are some The feeling and attitude behind what we do will child to use power constructively. 5) Get the child involved in finding remedies. 1) Take time for training, making the steps as basic as nec­ determine the “how.” The feeling behind words solutions. 6) Decide what you will do, not what you will try to make essary for the child to experience success. Demonstrate a small step is often most evident in our tone of voice. the child do. Example: “I will pull over to the side of the road until that the child can duplicate. “I will draw half the circle, and you draw One day I came home from a trip and was you two stop fighting.” It is important that such actions be done with the other half.” 2) Arrange for small successes. Find out anything the welcomed by a sink full of dirty dishes. I felt kindness as well as firmness. It is especially effective to keep quiet child can do well, and give her many opportunities to share her ex­ discouraged and angry and started scolding and while following through—avoid reminders, threats and lectures. pertise. 3) Acknowledge any positive attempt, no matter how small. criticizing, “We have agreed that everyone will 7) Set up a schedule for spending special time with the child. 8) Get 4) Eliminate all expectations of perfection. 5) Focus on the child’s as­ put their dishes in the dishwasher. How come children involved in creating routines and then let the routines be sets. 6) Do not give up. 7) Spend regular, special time with the child. the boss. 9) Offer limited choices. 10) Invite the child to put the prob­ 8) Verbalize love and caring. The values of Positive Discipline only work when lem on the family meeting agenda. 11) Verbalize love and caring. a strong rapport has been created. There is Teach and Model Mutual Respect no better way to build that foundation of trust when the goal is revenge Mutual respect incorporates attitudes of: 1) faith in the abilities of than to be with your children. Knowing this, the Remember that children cover up hurt feelings, which make them yourself and others; 2) interest in the point of view of others as well Patels have taken their children to the beach for

feel powerless, by seeking revenge, which gives them a sense of as your own and; 3) willingness to take responsibility and ownership dinodia the day, to fly kites but mostly just to have fun.

raising children 14 strategies parents need to know 8. Focus on Solutions 9. Cool Off Before Solving a Problem

et children involved in finding so­ a baseball through the garage n coping with tough situations, proper some help from the whole family later?” lutions to the cause of their misbe­ window and together you de­ timing will improve your effectiveness Have your children help you design a G havior or mistake that are 1) related, cide that the solution is to fix the I tenfold. It does not work to deal with a pleasant area (with cushions, books, music, 2) respectful, 3) reasonable and 4) helpful window (with materials pur­ problem at the time of conflict. Emotions get stuffed animals) where they can go to calm (the “three Rs and an H”). chased with her allowance), you in the way. Thus, it is important to under­ down when they are upset. Remember that Making amends is a solution that is en­ have arrived at a solution that stand and to teach children that, in most cases, children do better when they feel better. couraging when used in a non-punitive is related, respectful, reasonable a cooling off period is necessary before seek­ A Story from Kavita: “I can’t believe what manner, because children experience the and helpful. So long as you stay ing a solution. Since it is difficult to focus on just happened!” Roshan’s father stammered. opportunity to learn from their mistakes out of a blaming mode and see solutions when we are upset and responding “I can’t even think straight, I’m so mad! You and correct any resulting problems. Mak­ the mistake as an opportunity to from our irrational brain, where the options need to go upstairs. I need to calm down.” ing amends is encouraging because children learn, you have practiced prob­ are fight or flight, it is helpful to wait until Roshan, age 6, ran to his favorite time-out learn they can be responsible and account­ lem-solving skills and respect we have calmed down and can access our spot and hurled his body on the cushions.

able for their behavior without fear of blame, with your child, and you have dinodia rational brains. I call this positive time out. His father, fraught with anger, went into his shame and pain. enjoyed some quality time together. When After finding a way for Anjali to participate How do you teach children about cooling- study and shut the door, struggling to regain It is sad that some adults think it is more focusing on solutions, one life skill that is of­ in the daily puja, the Gowda family was off periods? By example and repetition. You his composure. Both gradually felt better as, important for children to feel blame, shame ten needed is calling for a cooling off period amazed to witness an immediate change in (or the children) can go to a separate room in their own worlds, they were able to calm and pain for what they have done than to (see strategy 9). her demeanor. Being the middle child, she and do something to make yourself feel bet­ their breaths and maybe punch a couple of make amends and experience encourage­ A Story from Jane: Ravindra, the custo­ needs a little extra responsibility to feel that ter, and then work on the problem with mu­ cushions. After 15 minutes, young Roshan ment that will motivate them to stop misbe­ dian in an elementary school, caught five she is an important member of the family. tual respect. “I think we are both too upset to was quietly playing with his favorite toy car.

having. It is important to note that children students defacing classroom doors. He spoke discuss this now, but I would like to get to­ Downstairs his father had turned his atten­ dinodia do not get away with misbehavior when to them respectfully and together they de­ children from vandalizing. He had success­ gether with you when we have had time to tion to today’s newspaper and was reading Little Deepa has been overcome with they are encouraged to make amends. They cided they would make amends by helping fully used three Positive Discipline tools: cool off.” Another approach might be, “What an article. When he saw the time, he walked emotion. Mom knows this is not the time learn to be accountable, while keeping their him repaint the doors. He was so under­ 1) focusing on solutions, 2) creating a con­ would help you the most right now—to take up the stairs, tussled Roshan’s hair and sat on to sort out the problems that caused the dignity and respect intact. standing that he inspired the boys to take nection before correction and 3) redirecting some positive time out, or to put this prob­ the floor next to him, eye level. Now the time upset, and arranges for her daughter to For example, when your daughter bops pride in their work and to discourage other the misbehavior. lem on the meeting agenda so we can get was right for solving the problem. cool off in their agreed-upon place.

I-10 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-11 no one keeps their agreements when I’m not around?” belonging and significance. When we remember this, we will give I looked for someone to blame, but everyone claimed, “I didn’t do it.” misbehaving children the benefit of the doubt. Instead of assuming The Teen Years From a negative feeling I said, “Okay, we have to have a family meet­ they want to be difficult, we will assume they want positive results ing and decide what to do about this.” Can you imagine the outcome and are simply confused about how to achieve them. They don’t have When children reach their teens, they naturally if we had tried to have a meeting based on my feelings of blame and the knowledge, the skills or the maturity to find belonging and sig­ go through a major individuation process. They criticism? We would not have found the kind of effective solution nificance in useful ways. It is our job to help them develop what they are exploring who they are, separate from their that comes from an atmosphere of love and respect. My attacking at­ need. To be effective, our approach must be based on an attitude of, “I parents. This often translates into rebellion as titude would have inspired defensiveness and counterattacks instead know you want to succeed. How can I help?” they test parental values. of harmony and solutions. I realized what I was doing and immedi­ Dr. Krishna D. Bhat: “Parents should know the needs, aspira­ Peer pressure is extremely important to ately changed directions. I could see that my negative attitude would tions, strengths and limitations of every child. Paramahansa Niran­ teenagers. Younger children are influenced by not produce the results I wanted—to say nothing of how miserable it janananda calls it the SWAN theory: Strengths, Weaknesses, Aspi­ peer pressure, but adult approval is even more made me feel at the time. As soon as I changed my attitude, my feel­ rations and Needs. Children should be properly molded by parents. important to them. To teenagers, peer approval ings changed and I had immediate inspiration about how to get posi­ They are highly suggestible, like malleable metal. They are very imi­ trumps adult approval. tive results. I said, “Let’s go out for pizza. Later we will have a family tative and will copy our behavior, which is one of the greatest risks of Many parents and teenagers have drawn meeting to look for solutions instead of blame.” using corporal punishment.” battle lines, which is intensified when parents Based on those feelings, we had a successful meeting. We laugh­ are intent on controlling their teenagers. We are ingly agreed that it must have been a phantom who left the dishes in Freely Express Unconditional Love saddened by this, because we know it is absolutely the sink. When we stopped looking for blame and concentrated on Children need to know they are more important to us than anything impossible to control teenagers; it is too late. The solutions, Mark and Mary proposed that we all be assigned two days they do. They need to know they are more important than their more you try to control them, the more defiant a week to take care of the phantom’s dirty dishes. As you might guess, grades. They need to know they are more important than the ma­ and/or devious they get. fewer dishes were left in the sink after this friendly discussion. terial possessions in our lives. Jiva’s mom made some mistakes be­ The best way to win the cooperation of Bodhinatha veylanswami: Kids can learn from parents fore she remembered this vital point. When Jiva broke one of her teenagers is through mutual respect and equality that it is through taking a humble attitude, rather than a dominant prize antique vases, she was so heartbroken over it that she sat down in problem solving. Family meetings and class position, that conflicts are resolved smoothly and easily. Mastery of and cried. Jiva felt awful about what he had done, but finally asked, meetings teach social responsibility and get them resolving differences keeps our young one’s lives sublime and their “Mother, would you feel that bad if something happened to me?” involved in the decision‑making process. subconscious minds free of the disturbances caused by memories of Children often don’t know how important and loved they are. When treated with kindness, firmness, dignity, unresolved disagreements. Sometimes parents and teachers focus so much on misbehavior that respect and lots of joint problem-solving, they lose sight of the child—and the child loses sight of himself. One teenagers usually fall back on parental values in Give Children the Benefit of the Doubt mother asked her three‑year‑old, “Do you know I really love you?” their twenties—and they will have learned more of Every child wants to succeed. Every child wants to have good rela­ The reply was, “Yes, I know you love me when I am good.” A teenager the important life skills they need when they are

tionships with others. Every child wants to feel a sense of connection, replied to the same question, “I know you love me if I get good grades.” dinodia no longer under the authority of adults.

raising children 14 strategies parents need to know 10. Connection Before Correction 11. Ask Curiosity Questions

aking a connection means creating from conventional correction. Positive oo often adults tell children what hap­ A Story from Jane: One of my favorite a feeling of closeness and trust be­ Discipline correction respectfully involves pened, what caused it to happen, how examples is the time my daughter shared M fore using any of the many respect­ children—whenever possible, doing things T the child should feel about it, what the with me her intention to get drunk at a ful and encouraging corrective methods with them. child should learn from it, and what the child party. I gulped and said, “Tell me more. suggested in the Positive Discipline books. A Story from Kavita: Davishan, age 16, should do about it. It is much more respectful Why are you thinking of doing that?” She Whenever possible, correction includes in­ was a natural athlete. His parents enjoyed and encouraging when we ask what happened, said, “Lots of kids do it and it looks like volving children in focusing on solutions in­ his enthusiasm and encouraged him to what the child thinks caused it, how the child they are having fun.” I stifled my tempta­ stead of punishing them for mistakes. Effec­ channel his energies into sports. The only feels about it, what the child has learned, what tion to lecture and asked, “What do your tive connections are made when both child problem was the level of competition. Da­ ideas the child has to solve the problem, or how friends say about you now, knowing you and adult feel belonging and significance– vishan was starting to lose the enjoyment the child can use what she has learned in the don’t drink?” She thought about this and even though it is the adult who takes the of striving by channeling all of his thoughts future. This is the true meaning of education, said, “They are always telling me how

first steps. Some of these steps to connec­ toward winning. He became distraught for mardemootoo kavita which comes from the Latin word educare, much they admire me and how proud tion are: 1) Listen. Really listen. Stop doing days on end if he did not win. Kavita has a correction to make, but is wise which means “to draw forth.” Too often, adults they are of me.” I continued, “What will whatever you are doing and give your child Calling for a quiet time one afternoon, the enough to first give Dipanjali her full love try to “stuff in,” instead of draw forth, and then they think after you get drunk?” I could your full attention. 2) Validate your child’s father looked his son straight in the eyes and attention, and to listen to her daughter’s wonder why children don’t learn. see her think before she offered, “I’ll bet feelings. Don’t we all feel connected when with such love and respect that Davishan side before warning her about the dangers One way to get the child engaged is to ask they’ll be disappointed.” I followed with, we feel understood? 3) Share your feelings turned away. After some time, he asked the of being alone. Dipanjali, feeling very grown questions that arouse their curiosity. A few typ­ “How do you think you’ll feel about your­

when appropriate. Remember that children boy questions about competing and listened up at age 10, had walked back from her ical curiosity questions are: self.” I could tell this question made her dinodia will listen to you AFTER they feel listened to. to every word the boy had to say. Davishan girlfriend’s house unaccompanied in the dark. • What were you trying to accomplish? think a little deeper. She paused a little Asking the right questions about a Children feel special when you respectfully was afraid his father would stop him from • How do you feel about what happened? longer before saying, “I will probably feel sensitive issue can bring mother and share something about yourself. (Respect­ competing. So, he was taken completely and helping his teammates than on winning. • What did you learn from this? like a loser.” This was soon followed by, daughter closer together. It is good to fully means no stories about “walking miles by surprise when he asked what Davishan Dad liked that, and added that they could • How can you use what you “You know, Mom, I don’t need to get drunk. remember that a child’s relationship in the snow.”) thought they should do to improve his frame work through it together. Only if that did learned in the future? Thank you for taking the time to help me with the parents can profoundly affect It is important to understand that correc­ of the mind when he lost a game. Davishan not resolve the behavior problems would • What ideas do you have for solutions now? with this.” his or her decision-making patterns. tion the Positive Discipline way is different offered that he could work more on excelling they need to consider alternatives.

I-12 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-13 We often nag at our children to do better. We want them to be intuition will enable you to apply them in your own life. I know from A family has their new car blessed. better because we love them and think they will be happier if they personal experience, and from reports from hundreds of parents and There are many such opportunities do what we think is good for them. They usually do not hear that we teachers, that these concepts really work when used correctly. in our religion to reinforce the want them to do better for their sake. What they interpret is, “I can Adults have a leadership responsibility to help children develop presence of the Gods and guru in never do anything well enough. I can’t live up to your expectations. characteristics that will enable them to live happy, productive lives. the lives of our children. Guiding You want me to be better for you, not for me.” It is our job to provide them with a good foundation that they can them to follow a daily religious Remember that children do better when they feel better. Nothing build upon. Teaching them self‑discipline, responsibility, coopera­ routine is a vital part of upbringing. feels better than unconditional love. Most parents are not aware that tion and problem‑solving skills helps them establish an excellent they are being unloving when they use punishment. In fact, most foundation. When children exhibit these characteristics and skills, parents use punishment in the name of love! they feel a greater sense of belonging and significance, which gives become permissiveness, and too much Kavita: “When talking to children, it can help to get on the same rise to positive behavior. firmness without kindness may be­ eye level with the child. I found that this simple practice changed Here is an inspiring testimony that Marianne McGinnis sent me come excessive strictness. my communication with my young son. The hardest part is trying after attending my two-day workshop “Teaching Parenting the Posi­ Sometimes we have to stop dealing not to break into a smile when I ask him to look into my eyes and tive Discipline Way.” “Your philosophy on living and parenting gives with the misbehavior and heal the he looks left and right trying to avoid my gaze. Once he makes eye me more hope than anything else I have ever come across. I am truly relationship first. Often the healing contact, I have his full attention. Looking into your child’s eyes brings inspired, and am already incorporating many of the tools—family involves encouragement that removes the two of you closer and tunes you into how he or she is feeling in meetings, remembering that mistakes are opportunities to learn, ask­ the motivation for misbehavior with­ that moment.” ing ‘what’ and ‘how’ curiosity questions, looking for solutions instead out dealing directly with the misbe­ of blame, sharing encouraging messages (‘I have faith in you’ is my havior. Encouragement may not seem Help Children Develop a Sense of Capability favorite) and always getting the message of love across. Not only are to work until adults understand the All the concepts taught in Positive Discipline help children develop my boys responding with more love and helpful behavior, I can see belief behind the child’s behavior by their sense of capability. Children will not acquire a sense of compe­ how encouraged and inspired they are! I’m not shutting them down recognizing the mistaken goals. tence and responsibility if adults keep doing for them what they can anymore.” I called Marianne and asked her to share her success sto­ There is never just one way to solve and should do for themselves. ries for a podcast. To hear her story, go to www.PositiveDiscipline. a behavior challenge. In parent and com and scroll down to podcast episode 49. teacher study groups, participants can Put Positive Discipline to Work in Your Life If you find that Positive Discipline isn’t working for you, check to brainstorm several possible sugges­ If you like the concepts presented in this brief introduction, I strong­ see if something is missing or out of balance. For example, problem tions based on the principles in the ly urge you to read my Positive Discipline book, and then read it solving may not be effective if adults or children do not understand books. The parent or teacher seeking again. I guarantee that you will get at least ten times more from it in that mistakes are opportunities to learn. Family or class meetings help can then choose the most ac­ the second reading. You will see things you totally missed the first may not be effective until people have learned mutual respect and ceptable suggestion. You can also send

time. Once you understand the principles, your common sense and social responsibility. Too much kindness without firmness may dinodia questions to my blog, where I post

raising children 14 strategies parents need to know 12. Prepare Kids for Success 13. Try Limiting the Choices

f you plan to bring your child to the store, they have the children write down ne of the easiest and yet most power­ “Would you prefer a glass of water or a glass of a movie, or on any outing, be sure to have a list of things they could do during ful tools of Positive Discipline is “Lim­ juice?” Avoid asking, “What would you like to I a conversation beforehand about the the puja that would help them to sit O ited Choices.” You can actually guide wear?” “What would you like to drink?” Such needful behavior of the day. If children know quietly. One Sunday, Purna decided your children through their younger years questions invite conflict because the child may beforehand, it gives you more freedom later to bring her favorite doll to hold, and by letting them make choices for themselves, say something that you do not agree with. to explain consequences and respect. Other­ Siven brought his favorite toy car. He so that they build character and individual­ Story: Before each family dinner or out­ wise, they can simply and truthfully tell you learned in advance that he could not ity, while still retaining parental control of the ing, Anuradha chose the appropriate outfit for they didn’t know any better. Respecting our push the car on the floor but he could situation. her son and daughter. She would set out the children creates respect in all aspects. For hold it in his lap and play with the Try putting two children in a candy store clothes on the children’s bed and inevitably example, let them know that they can choose tires. Because it was Chaturthi, Siven and asking them to choose just one treat! They face a storm of protest. One of them almost al­ only one treat at the store and if they ask for and Purna also decided to each make are overwhelmed by the options. Each watches ways ended up crying. One day Anuradha was a second treat, the first treat will be put back five drawings for Ganesha as a gift to to see who got the best or bigger treat, and it choosing her own outfit for an important din­ on the shelf. This limits argument in public Him on His special day. ends up being a competition, instead of a sim­ ner. She asked her husband what he liked. He places, which often creates frustration in the The family agreed on certain hand ple candy treat. surprised her by picking out two outfits, then parent, leading to incidents that are emba­ signals (not threatening looks) to let Now try it with “Limited Choices.” Tell the saying that she should make the final decision. rassing and hurtful to all involved. the children know without words if children that each may choose two pieces each She quickly picked her favorite and saw how

Story: Every Sunday the Ramdoo family their actions were appropriate or not. mardemootoo kavita of two types of candy, one piece for themself easy he had made it for her. She realized in that go to the temple for Ganesha puja. Mr. and There were signals of encouragement The twins in the photo are showing the famous and the other for the sibling. You have let them moment that she was frustrating her children Mrs. Ramdoo always take a little time to that made their faces light up! And thumbs up sign of encouragement that many choose their own, but you have reduced the by not respecting them enough to let them tell Siven, (age 7) and Purna (age 5) that the there was a gesture that warned them parents use when children are following the choices from 50 to two, and you have avoided have a say in their choice of clothes. Soon after,

temple is a special place and to remind them that if unacceptable behavior persist­ ground rules. Hand signals empower you, the the competition—all in one sentence. They each while preparing to go to their cousin’s house, mardemootoo kavita of the expected behaviors inside the temple ed there would be consequences. That parent, to privately guide behavior in public end up with four pieces of the same candies. she laid out three good choices for each child Kovishan couldn’t make up his mind walls. During their family meeting, they let was also agreed upon at the family situations. Be careful not to point fingers at This strategy can work for just about every­ and left the room. No arguing, no tears! which film to watch one evening. When the children write out a list of things that are meeting. each other, for that is a threatening gesture thing: “Would you like to ring the bell or deco­ text and story by kavita mardemootoo mom asked him to choose between just OK to do and things that are not OK. Then text & story by kavita mardemootoo that is counter to Positive Discipline. rate with the flowers for this morning’s puja?” two films, he was able to decide!

I-14 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today I-15 my answers and advice on a vast array of issues. On-line classes in from them. I have been learning from mistakes for almost 30 years Positive Discipline are available, and I offer telephone consultation since I first wrote Positive Discipline. I love these principles because This expecting couple have as well. they are wonderful guidelines to help me get back on track every found a great help with Positive Discipline is not about perfection. It is helpful to have pa­ time I get lost. Positive Discipline, especially tience with ourselves and with our children as we work to change I have presented many new concepts and skills here that will take while reading about old habits. As our understanding of the underlying principles deep­ practice for you to successfully apply to the special circumstances of something their three-year- ens, practical application becomes easier. Patience, humor and for­ your family. It can be confusing and discouraging to expect too much old just attempted last week! giveness enhance our learning process. Remember to see mistakes as of yourself. Apply one method at a time and move ahead slowly, re­ opportunities to learn when you fall back into old habits. We have membering to see mistakes as opportunities to learn. Many parents found that no matter how many times we react and forget to use the and teachers have found that even though their children don’t be­ principles of Positive Discipline, we can always go back to the princi­ come perfect, they enjoy them much more after applying these con­ ples and clean up the messes we made while reacting. It is true, over cepts and attitudes. That is my wish for you. and over again, that mistakes are wonderful opportunities to learn. Have compassion for yourself when you make mistakes—and learn Dr. Jane Nelsen 14 strategies parents need to know Young Kishore and Chandi both look forward to family meetings as a time to be heard, to create new rules that improve life, enjoy the family and talk about any problems that occurred the previous week

involved in many activities, such as babysit­ ting, sports, dates, lessons and so on. Coordi­ nating the calendar for car use and mutual convenience can be essential. Family meet­ ings should not end without planning a fam­ ily fun activity during the coming week. End the meeting by doing something to­ gether as a family. You might want to play a game together, popcorn or take turns making and serving desserts. Do not watch TV un­ less there is a program that the whole family kavita mardemootoo kavita looks forward to. If you do watch a program, be sure to end by turning off the TV and having a family discussion about what val­ ues (or lack thereof) were portrayed, and how A Full Complement of Child-Raising Resources

kavita mardemootoo kavita this might apply in your lives. A Story from Kavita: The Peruman family By Tara Katir, USA dents, from kindergarten through had four children, ages 2, 4, 10 and 12. Family r. jane nelsen, author of high school, to become self-reliant, 14. Hold Weekly Family Meetings meetings were always getting interrupted by Positive Discipline for Parents successful adults. There is even Posi- two-year-old Vijay. He would scream at the D says, “We often act as though tive Discipline for Childcare Providers. aving weekly family meetings is an that children can help solve the problems of top of his lungs and throw toys at the table. we have forgotten that love and joy are Jane’s books can be ordered on her important key to creating a loving, getting them done. They are more coopera­ The other siblings rolled their eyes as Mother the whole point of living and working website—www.positivediscipline.com. H respectful atmosphere in the home tive when they can voice their feelings and spent most of the meeting time coping with with children, and find ourselves act- which is a treasure trove of resources while helping children develop self-disci­ be part of the planning and choosing. him. Finally, Father asked them for ideas on ing out of fear, judgment, expectations, for parents and teachers. There are free pline, responsibility, cooperation and prob­ Choose a chairperson. Children love to be what to do about Vijay. “Put him in his room!” blame, disappointment and anger. articles, an online forum, podcasts, free lem-solving skills. the chairperson and can do a very good job “Let him cry,” “Don’t give him any dinner!” Then we wonder why we feel so mis- downloads, e-books and MP3 audios, One of the activities is solving problems after they reach the age of four or five. This came the responses. Mr. Peruman asked erable.” Once the initial bliss of having and information on Positive Discipline with cooperation and mutual respect. Solu­ job should rotate. The chairperson calls the them to calm down and think about why a newborn child begins to wane, par- Workshops. tions must be agreed upon by consensus. A meeting to order, starts the group sharing Vijay was acting up. Little Anjali (age four) ents discover the hard truth of child The next time you find yourself frus- majority vote in a family meeting would ac­ of compliments, begins the problem‑solving surprised them all by saying, “He just wants rearing—their beautiful baby did not trated by your rambunctious toddler centuate a family division. Convey an attitude sessions, and sends the “talking stick” around to be like us.” At that, the others sprang from arrive with an instruction manual, and or sassy teenager, give yourself a “time of faith in your family that you can work to­ the circle, which gives everyone a turn to their chairs, grabbed their little brother with raising him is hard work! As much as you your child, instead of becoming stuck in an out” and find some inspiration with solu- gether to find unanimous solutions that are voice an opinion or make a suggestion. hugs and kisses, put cushions on a big kitch­ hate to admit it, you may find yourself get- endless morass of power struggles, whining tions on the Positive Discipline website. Jane related, respectful, reasonable and helpful. The job of secretary should also rotate en chair, and placed him there, with everyone, ting angry, frustrated with your child, then and defiance. coaxes parents, “It doesn’t matter whether Planning weekly family fun activities and among members of the family who are able at the table. Enjoying his beaming smile, they feeling a bit guilty. While there are no pat In her wide range of books, Dr. Nelsen you’re a teacher, a parent or both.... On this other events is an important part of family to write. The secretary keeps notes of prob­ gave him a pen and paper, like they each had, answers, Jane’s collection of Positive Disci- directly addresses the issues for parents of web site, I’m going to show you how to solve meetings. Family members are more willing lems discussed and decisions made. Family and told him to choose the next person to pline books are an outstanding guide for par- toddlers, teenagers, parents with “blended” defiance, whining, and all the other problem to cooperate when they have participated meetings should include a review of the next share, while he could take notes (scribbles). ents and teachers who are willing to make a families and parents in recovery from drugs behaviors children and teens use to drive equally in planning events they will all enjoy. week’s activities. This is especially impor­ As the official co-chairperson at all family concerted effort. In them you will discover and alcohol. Jane has also written books you crazy! And yes, you can do it all with- Also discuss chores at a family meeting so tant as the children grow older and become meetings, Vijay fit in perfectly. how to build a positive relationship with for teachers to assist them in training stu- out ever blaming or punishing them!” ∏π

I-16 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 copyright © 2009 himalayan academy january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 53 www.himalayanacademy.com tears and touch the injury in an expression of karuna, compassion, the adults the moment he opens his eyes to this world. Discipline empathy or mercy. 8) A loud noise startles and wakens the baby and and assimilation into the community will come later, by way of nu- Why Ancient Cultures Allow Children to he cries out in fear, bhayanaka. This cry is distinct from all other merous rites of passage. cries. 9) Try spooning a cooked and mashed vegetable into an infant’s In a similar fashion, the child-centered and ancient culture of In- Express the Natural Human Emotions, or Rasas mouth. As he sniffs, tastes, spits out and makes a horrible face he is dia takes a very tolerant view of the childhood display of rasas. In expressing vibhatsa, disgust, with the new taste, very different from India they let the children be children. They understand that child- that of milk, his staple diet so far. Besides these, a child can display hood does not last forever. Soon enough the child will grow up and By Vatsala Sperling, Vermont, USA knows exactly how to display his needs by way of facial expressions with equal ease and mastery a few more inherent emotions, such as learn the ways of the world. There is no need to rush the process, to ndian tradition recognizes nine rasas as representing our when he is barely three months old. 2) Laughing when tickled is a sadness, greed, selflessness, obstinacy, curiosity, clinginess, generosity, cause premature aging and untimely maturation. most important and basic emotions: love, joy, wonder, calm- child’s expression of hasya, joyous humor and laughter. Watch him dependency, violence, arrogance and rudeness. When children have strong emotions, the adults do not feel the ness, anger, courage, compassion, fear and dis­gust. These emo- play with a pet. 3) A ladybug lands on his table, walks across, flutters The older, child-centered cultures take a different approach to the need to resort to violent beatings or verbal abuse to suppress the ex- I tions are universal to mankind. Five are desirable, while four her wings and takes off. The child is wide-eyed with adbhuta, won- display of rasas by the powerful beings called children. The parent- pression those feelings. Such a response would only inflict rejection are unpleasant and usually undesirable. der or fascination, and has watched every move made by the ladybug. ing techniques followed in many so-called primitive cultures foster and social humiliation on children for their natural displays. Adults Watch a small child carefully and you will be able to see dis- 4) A well-fed and relaxed baby that is asleep does look angelic. He is attachment, and create such a closeness and bond between mother in these older cultures understand that just as a lion hunts a deer, the plays of all nine of the basic emotions: 1) A baby smiles and gazes shanta, tranquility or calmness, personified. 5) Children fighting may and child that the mother develops a total acceptance and under- child, in all his innocence, is simply following his inborn instincts. He adoringly at his mother, showing the emotion of shringara, charm display raudra, anger. 6) A child has learned to climb a ladder and standing of her child and his mind. When an entire extended family is not acting to please or displease. These adults understand that just or love. Overcome with love for the infant, she picks him up, cud- gets a better view. He is feeling very accomplished and vira, brave, a lives in a one-room longhouse in the rain forest of South America, as nature expresses herself through her elements, children express dles him and showers him with kisses. This is what the baby hero of his own world. 7) In a hurry, the mother stubs her toe and the adults reach a high level of tolerance to childhood display of ra- themselves through their displays of rasas. The display is not the child. wanted, a physical confirmation of mother’s presence and love. He cries out in pain. A child as young as two will reach out, wipe mom’s sas. They do not expect the child to conform to the expectations of It is just a state of mind and therefore is inherently changeable. ∏π

Nine innate emotions: 1) Shringara, love, devotion; 2) hasya, joy, humor; 3) adbhuta, wonder, curiosity; 4) shanta, calmness; 5) raudra, anger; irritation; 6) vira, courage; 7) karuna, compassion, empathy; 8) bhayanaka, fear, anxiety; 9) vibhatsa, disgust suresh muthukulam suresh Love Joy Wonder Calmness Anger Courage Compassion Fear Disgust

drain and into the septic tank. This is where their rasas. these disciplines have been known to sta- discretion comes in. Sometimes as early as the age of three or bilize and channel excessive or disruptive What Modern Parents Can Do When all is said and done, nobody can four, children are labeled with psychiat- energy in more positive directions. A regular deny that these are challenging times for ric diagnoses and begin to be treated with time, free of TV, when family members sit By Vatsala Sperling, Vermont, USA How to cultivate positive rasas parents. Rootlessness, alienation, margin- powerful drugs such as lithium or Depak- together, work together and converse with hen the display of negative rasas by children gets out of Do not, do not, do not suppress, neglect, ignore, put alization and anonymity—these are some ote (mood stabilizers), Risperdal, Seroquel or one another is also known to provide lasting, down, discourage, demean or humiliate the child when of the prices parents pay when they move Zyprexa (atypical antipsychotics), Prozac (an positive change for children. W hand, there are certain positive things that parents can do: he is displaying any sign of a positive rasa. While around the world in search of the perfect sit- antidepressant) or Ritalin (a drug for ADHD). As children grow up and display ra- ❖ Take a few deep breaths. excessive praise is detrimental, so are neglect and uation. Young parents are often cut off from Each of these drugs comes with a frighten- sas, parents need to continue to grow up as discouragement. their original cultures and societies. Techno- ing list of side effects. If prescribed without well—not just in the physical manifestations ❖ Commit to loving the child without conditions. Focus on cultivating tolerance and patience in your- commercial values constantly push parents any physical markers, but solely on the basis of age, the wrinkles and gray hair, but in ❖ Be firm, yet remain flexible to the child’s needs of the self. Treat the child as you would expect him to treat you and children to test one another. In pursuit of behavior—or rather the display of rasas— wisdom. This is what a study of the display moment. when you grow old, powerless, dependent and needy. of their individual ambitions and needs, what good (or harm) is being done to the of rasas in childhood is all about: a call for Talk to your child about the expression of positive rasas parents and children often live in separate child, the parents and society? parents to monitor the growth of their wis- ❖ See the child for what he is—just a small child in need of when the time is right. In the meantime, just show him worlds, albeit in the same household. And In the face of this, it becomes all the more dom. When parents learn to take charge of support. by the example of your own behavior how the expres- when children enter school, the child who imperative that parents consider other, more their own growth in terms of tolerance and ❖ Impose no grown-up values and expectations on the child. sion of positive rasas brings joy to the family. has not been given time to be a child, who holistic approaches to child rearing. If, as is empathy and resolve to let children be chil- Set a family time—free from technology—to create has not been accepted with tolerance, often sometimes the case, the child’s display of dren first, allowing them an age-appropriate ❖ See the display of rasa for what it is—a little storm in a tiny an ideal environment for cultivating your child and ends up in the school nurse’s office being rasas becomes detrimental to his own or display of rasas, they have an opportunity tea cup, which will calm down eventually. teaching him about the display of positive rasas. tested for and diagnosed with illnesses such his family’s well-being, there are scores of to become truly close to their children and ❖ At the peak of the display of negative rasas, do not force the Soon enough you will be able to speak to the child as bipolar disorder, ADHD or oppositional other, non-pharmaceutical options avail- know them in their totality. As children ma- about the universal laws of righteous behavior. Every defiant disorder. able for modifying mood and behavior. His ture, good parents take the initiative for gen- child to change his ways or engage with him in a forceful being has the desire to be treated with love, courtesy, Harried teachers, under pressure to main- parents might explore changing his diet, tly channeling their rasas at the appropriate manner. A calm voice and a firm but peaceful demeanor is a kindness, loyalty, generosity, consideration and warmth. tain order in their classrooms and to have limiting his intake of sugar, preservatives time and place. When parents take this pos- stronger weapon than force. While being taught to extend this treatment to one and their students meet minimum academic and additives. Calming and healing herbs itive approach to child-rearing, the options ❖ all, the child will also need to be told about discretion. standards, expect all of the children to be- might help. Perhaps homeopathy could shift of violent discipline and drug-based treat- At no point are violent, physical punishments, frightening For example, loyalty is a good quality but the child must have like obedient, quiet, perfect little ladies his energetic balance, or counseling for the ments become obsolete. While we continue time-outs, deprivation or verbal abuse called for. Such learn to choose his company wisely. If he befriends a and gentlemen. Children are not allowed to entire family could diffuse the situation. to ponder who is raising whom, learning to negative devices affect children for the rest of their lives. drug pusher and becomes loyal to him, his loyalty to be children. They are not allowed to devi- Training a child in classical music, classi- flow with the rasas will bring about lasting this friendship will quickly take him right down the ate from the norm or to freely express all of cal dance or martial arts could help. All of peace and joy in many households.

54 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 55 In that transition, we lost the other half many bright young Dalit boys and girls opinion of our identity. Perhaps, many in my par- human rights are unable to fulfill their educational goals ents’ generation did not know Hinduism each year because they are pushed into the beyond the ritualistic aspects of puja and workforce at a young age to help provide attending mandirs. And perhaps grow- for their families. ing up in India, surrounded by millions of Hindus, they never needed to question How did the Dalit community come Finding the Pride the meaning of intricate rituals. But my Facing Dalit Issues to be? One third of the ancient Saivite Will my generation be fully absorbed in American generation does. And when we ask “Why?” What our Hindu Dalit brothers and sisters want is Tamil saints were from Dalits. and are met with ignorance, far from feel- In ancient times, the caste system was not culture and forget their Hindu identity? ing pride in our religion, we shun it. We economic muscle and simple vocational respect so stratified. This allowed several members are embarrassed by it because it is differ- of the so-called “lower” communities to ent from our surroundings in America. So come up. This is well recognized in reli- by Sheetal shah when we are asked about the “elephant- by arvind chandrakantan gious texts from all over India, not only in headed God,” instead of being able to Tamil classics. Caste classifications became n many respects, i am your average indian-american explain the rich symbolism, we shrug it off merican-born hindus have very little expo- fixed only later. 20-something female. I enjoy Bollywood music and dance and change the topic. We are embarrassed sure to the deep social problems faced by India’s as much as hip hop and clubbing. I revel in Indian cuisine because we do not know. In response, we Dalit and Harijan communities, who comprise What is Hinduism to your community? as much as I do in pizza. While I love visiting India, I am stick with what we do know–being Indi- 25% of our Hindu family. But time and again we Hinduism means a lot to our community. always relieved to return to the US. And I am Hindu. The fact an–and we hide our Hindu identity. face burning allegations of caste discrimination within Even if people get converted to either that I am proud of being Hindu is what separates me, and only Ironically, it is only the Hindu identity Hinduism. Scriptural documentation of caste in Hinduism is Christianity or Islam, it is foreign. You can I a handful of others like me, from most Indian Americans. that can last for generations. While my A sparse. Most interpretations of caste come from proselytiz- go to church or mosque for two or three The Hindu and Indian identities have been intertwined parents are staunchly Indian, my own at- ing Western Christian missionaries. In fact, the origin of the days, but you grew up with Lord Siva, to such an extent that few today make any reference to their tachment to India is less than my parents, caste supposedly from the four parts of Purusha, the Cosmic Ganapati and Murugan. So we cannot deny Hindu identity. Most in my generation refer to themselves and my children’s attachment to India will Man, can be seen in another light. If Purusha represents the this. Hence many reconvert to Hinduism. as desi or Indian. From personal experience, at first glance, it be even less. As the generations of Hindu transcendental nature of consciousness, then the brahmin Other religions also do not have a track is nearly impossible for a Hindu Indian American to define Indian Americans progress, that Indian is he who lives eternally in Brahman (enlightened state), the record of treating Dalits well, which is where one identity stops and the second begins. But in writ- identity will continue to diminish until kshatriya is he who fights the practical nature of the dual- another reason for reconversion. ing this article, I realized that it is possible to find that fine it disappears altogether. Just talk to the ity of the mind, the vaishya is he who teeters towards the line. Growing up in the US, where we are all able to form a strong grandchildren of European immigrants who arrived in America tamasic side of the mind but exists in the rajasic state, and the sudra What is the religious practice within your community? Do you American identity, it is important to understand that being Hindu much before Indians–they refer to themselves as Americans. My is he who exists in the tamasic state. So before we label one of our have your own temples and priesthood? and Indian is not the same. Yet so many Hindu Indian Americans grandchildren will also be 100% American. Hindu brethren with a caste name, we should delineate our own. Our practices are no different than any other Hindus. We eat and today find the distinction inconsequential. Hindu identity is based on a 5,000-year old philosophy of life that Myself and my friend Eswaran wanted to learn about the issues first pray like other Hindus, and our festivals are the same also. There I generalize here, but Hindu Indian Americans seem to fall into is universal. It is not based upon one’s birthplace. There is so much hand. Here is our interview with Dalit leader, Sri Kalidoss Swamigal, is no subcastes of priesthoods in the Dalit community, and, in fact, one of three categories. First, there are those who are disconnected to be proud of. Hinduism uniquely teaches a tolerance and accep- done during our summer 2008 trip to India. He elucidates the piv- there are minimal subdivisions within our community. from being both Hindu and Indian. They have either never been tance of multiple paths to God through one’s unique karma. It high- otal keys needed for change. taught or have resisted all efforts to learn an Indian language, enjoy lights the importance of performing one’s duty without attaching How do you see “untouchability” or impure vocations? the cuisine, or learn the philosophy of Hinduism. I will leave this expectations to outcomes that cannot be controlled. It shows us that What is the form of discrimination faced by Dalit people? There are jobs that the Dalit community do that other Hindus group alone as the discourse concerning their “disconnectness” is a while we cannot control the world around us, we can control our First, the concept of “Dalit” is found not just in the Hindu commu- would not do. But to label our jobs as ritually impure is unfair. Even different topic altogether. senses, and thereby maintain internal calmness. Hinduism brings nity. All religions, communities and races have had this throughout if we clean the temple floor, is this not a service to God? Many In stark contrast to the above group are those who embrace both to the world the ability to control the mind, body, and soul through history. To think of it as a Hindu issue is people in our community do not resent the work unless it is seen by identities. Not only does this group embrace its Indianness, they the practice of yoga. Of the world’s major religions, Hinduism is a false concept. Poverty is our primary other Hindus as being a “Dalit” job. These labels create resentment. also have an understanding, appreciation and pride in being Hindu. the only one whose explanations of the creation of today’s universe problem. Our children are unable to They have studied Hindu philosophy, acknowledge its importance in are largely compatible with modern day scientific thought. The list benefit from reservations (affirmative What should the Dalit community do to improve its status? the world today and are proud to share it with others. Unfortunately, is endless. And yet so many Hindu Indian Americans are still not actions programs) because they are Many Dalits have been very successful over the years, but they don’t few of my friends fall into this category. proud of their Hindu identity. forced into the work force very early. help other Dalits to come up. The final group, which is my focus, are those Hindu Indian Ameri- Fortunately, I have been raised to not only be proud of my Hindu Reservations for colleges and jobs don’t cans who hide their Hindu identity but are proud to display their In- American identity, but to ensure its survival. As the full-time Direc- help if you don’t even have enough Why are Dalits converted to Christianity and then some dian identity. This group is not only inclusive of those Hindu Indian tor of Development with the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), a food or water. Until basic amenities reconverting back to Hinduism? Americans who have been born and brought up in the US, but also non-profit advocacy group, I have made a commitment to help build are met, reservations can do only so Dalits see Christians coming to help them, and they help to propa- those who are commonly called FOBs (“Fresh Off the Boat”—those a national Hindu American voice by interacting with and educating much. Many in our community have gate the misconception that Hindus do not care about them. Both who have just recently immigrated). Individuals in this group blast leaders in public policy, media and academia, as well as the general done well having those amenities. But, are untrue. Dalits who have converted to other religions have not Bollywood music on their stereos, require a weekly quota of Indian public, about Hinduism and Hindu issues. I left a consulting career we are 25% of the Hindu population, benefitted in any way, and many have converted back to Hinduism food, and in college organize and attend Diwali shows which have to work for HAF because Hindu Americans need a credible voice yet we are still under-represented in in recent years. If you are to struggle, why not struggle with your lost any religious connotation. Diwali has just become an occasion to that is independent of an Indian identity; because without a united Sri Kalidoss Swamigal several areas because so many of our own religion that you grew up with? stage Bollywood style dances and throw massive after-parties. voice, our Hindu identity will be lost; and because I am proud to be reservations go unfilled each year. contact: all india dalit hindu maakal aanmega sangam, sankralaya, While this third group has retained a sense of Indianness, they a Hindu American. At a religious level, we often see money flow in from Christian 63 mayor ramanathan salai, chetpet, chennai, india 600031. head of the sangam, sri kalidoss swamigal (interview above) has been have resisted or suppressed their Hinduness. So I wonder, if you are and Muslim organizations overseas to help Dalits, but not from nominated for the shri narayana guru award for outstanding leader- Hindu and Indian, why is it ok to be Indian, but not Hindu? Hindu organizations. This leads many of our community to feel that ship in social reform given the the hindu american foundation and global human rights defence for outstanding work to uplift dalits. A large reason is that those of my parent’s generation arrived from sheetal shah, 27, based in New York City, is the director of Devel- Hindus do not care about them. The end of casteism would end a visit: http://www.hafsite.org/harijan_award.htm India with very little. They were forced to build a new life in a new opment for the Hindu American Foundation, focused on fundrais- lot of problems faced by our community, but it would not help us country and many of them passed on to their children that which ing and marketing. She was previously a corporate consultant and overcome poverty. If a man has food, water and basic necessities, arvind chandrakantan, md, 31, (photo at top) is a physician in was easiest, the Indianness. Playing Bollywood videos and cooking taught inner-city students for a year in Boston. She has a Masters then he can focus on education and upliftment. Education is the Miami who works with the Hindu American Foundation and the Indian food is easier than explaining the underpinnings of Hindu in Development Management from the London School of Economics panacea to many problems for all communities, not just for ours. So Loka Dharma Seva Foundation and Trust. philosophy. So, my generation grew up as Indian Americans. and a B.Sc in Computer Science from Georgia Tech.

56 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 57 culture Vegetarian Myths Debunked A tale of the hilarious misconceptions omnivores have about vegetarians

very vegetarian remembers his have yourself a vegetarian. Normal person, umpire and flipping over every car with a first time. Not the unremarkable no previously ocular food, end of story. Yankees bumper sticker. I have no designs on event of his first meal without meat, Some people call themselves vegetarians your Camry—or your hamster. Emind you. No, I mean the first time and still eat chicken or fish, but unless we’re Now, here in America, when I say that veg- he casually lets slip that he’s turned herbi- talking about the kind of salmon that comes etarians are normal people with normal food vore, prompting everyone in earshot to stare freshly plucked from the vine, this makes cravings, many omnivores will hoist a lamb

at him as if he just revealed plans to sail his you an omnivore. A select few herbivores go shank in triumph and point out that you media united carrot-powered plasma yacht to Neptune. one step further and avoid all animal prod- can hardly call yourself normal if the aroma For me, this first time came at an Elks schol- ucts—milk, eggs, honey, leather—and they of, say, sizzling bacon doesn’t fill you with As long as we’re discussing restaurants, al- silently judging you. I realize that anyone A cartoon view: Dilbert’s pet, Dogbert, is arship luncheon in rural Oregon when I was call themselves vegan (pronounced vee-gan). deepest yearning. To which I reply: We’re not low me a quick word with the hardworking who has encountered the breed of vegetarian surmised to be the alter ego of the cartoon’s 18. All day, I’d succeeded at seeming a prom- These people are intense. insane. We know meat tastes good to many chefs at America’s dining establishments. who says things like, “I can hear your lunch creator, Scott Adams, a staunch vegetarian ising and responsible young man, until that Vegetarians give up meat for a variety of people; it’s why there’s a freezer case at your We really appreciate that you included a screaming,” will find this tough to believe, fateful moment when someone asked why I ethical, environmental and health reasons supermarket full of woefully inadequate vegetarian option on your menu (and if you but I’m honestly not out to convert you. My incomplete, but I’d still say that doing some- hadn’t taken any meat from the buffet. Af- that are secondary to this essay’s goal of meat substitutes. Believe me, if obtaining ba- didn’t, is our money not green?), but it may girlfriend and my closest pals all eat meat, thing beats doing nothing. It’s kind of like ter I offered my reluctant explanation—and increasing brotherly understanding, so I’ll con didn’t require slaughtering a pig, I’d have interest you to know that most of us are not and they’ll affirm that I’ve never even raised driving a hybrid: not a solution to the global- the guy announced it to the entire room—30 mostly set them aside. Suffice it to say that a bacon sandwitch in each hand right now salad freaks on a grim slog for nourishment. an eyebrow about it. warming dilemma but a decent start. Let’s people went eerily quiet, undoubtedly ex- one day I suddenly realized that I could never with a bacon layer cake waiting in the fridge We actually enjoy food, especially the kind Now, do I think it strange that the same just say that at the dinner table, I roll in a Prius. pecting me to climb on my chair and launch look a cow in the eyes, press a knocking gun for dessert. But, that said, I can also tell you that tastes good. people who dress their dogs in berets and Finally, grant me one cordial request: into a speech on the virtues of an anarchic to her temple, and pull the trigger without that with some time away from the butcher’s So enough with the bland vegetable dishes, send them to day spas are often unfazed that Please don’t try to convince us that being revolution. In the corner, an elderly, suited feeling I’d done something cruel and unnec- section, many meat products start to seem and, for God’s sake, please make the Garden- an equally smart pig suffered and died to be- vegetarian is somehow wrong. If you’re con- man glared at me as he slowly raised a slice essary. (Sure, if it’s kill the cow or starve, then gross. Ground beef in particular now strikes burgers stop; it’s stunning how many res- come their McSandwich? Yes, I do. Would I cerned for my health, that’s very nice, though of bologna and executed the most menacing say your prayers, my bovine friend—but for me as absolutely revolting; I have a vague taurants lavish unending care on their meat prefer it if we at least raised these animals you can rest assured that I’m in shipshape. bite of cold cut in recorded history. I didn’t now, it’s not quite a mortal struggle to subsist memory that hamburgers taste good, but the dishes yet are content to throw a flavorless humanely? Yes, I would. If you want to have an amiable tête-à-tête get the scholarship. on the other five food groups.) idea of taking a cow’s leg, mulching it into hockey puck from Costco into the microwave Let’s be honest, though: I’m not exactly St. about vegetarianism, that’s great. But if you I tell this story not to win your pity but to I am well aware that even telling you this a fatty pulp, and forming it into a pancake and call it cuisine. Francis of Assisi over here, tenderly minister- insist on being the aggressive blowhard who illustrate a point: I’ve been vegetarian for a makes me seem like the kind of person who makes me gag. And hot dogs... I mean, hot Every vegetarian is used to slim pickings ing to every chipmunk that crosses my path. takes meatlessness as a personal insult and decade, and when it comes up, I still get a wants to break into your house and liberate dogs? You do know what that is, right? when dining out, so we’re not asking rails about what fools we all are, look of confused horror that says, “But you your pet hamster—that is, like a PETA activ- As a consolation prize we American veg- for much—just for something you’d you’re only going to persuade me seemed so… normal.” The U.S. boasts more ist. Most vegetarians, though, would tell you etarians get tofu, a treasure most omnivores like to eat. I’ll even offer a handy trick. that you’re dumb. than 10 million vegetarians today, yet most that they appreciate the intentions of groups are more than happy to do without. Well, this Pretend you’re trapped in a kitchen When someone says he’s reli- Americans assume that every last one is a like PETA but not the obnoxious tac- may stun you, but I’m not any more excited stocked with every ingredient imag- gious, you probably don’t start the loopy, self-satisfied health fanatic, hellbent tics. It’s like this: We’re all about a steaming heap of unseasoned inable, from asiago to zucchini, but stump speech about how God is a on draining all the joy out of life. Those rooting for the same team, tofu blobs than you are. Tofu is like with zero meat. With no flesh avail- lie created to enslave the ignorant of us who want to avoid the social but they’re the ones fugu blowfish sushi: Prepared cor- able, picture what you’d make for masses, and it’s equally offensive nightmare have to hide our veg- in face paint, bellow- rectly, it’s delicious; prepared incor- yourself; this is what we want, too. to berate an herbivore. I know you etarianism like an addiction, be- ing obscenities at the rectly, it’s lethal. Very early in my For those kind-hearted omnivores think we’re crazy. That’s neat. But cause admit it, omnivores: You vegetarian career, I found myself who willingly invite subversive veg- seeing as I’ve endured the hassle of know nothing about us. Do we famished and stuck in a mall, so I etarians into their homes for dinner being a vegetarian for several years eat fish? Will we panic if con- wandered over to the food court’s parties and barbecues (really! we are now, perhaps I’ve given this a little fronted with a hamburger? Are Asian counter. When I asked the not afraid of them!), the same rule thought. So let’s just agree to dis- we dying of malnutrition? You teenage chief culinary artisan applies—but also know that unless agree and joyously get on with it.

have no clue. So read on, my flesh- what was in the tofu stir-fry, you’re dealing with a vegetarian who kris usha Because, really, peace and un- eating friends—I believe it’s high he snorted and scoffed some- is a unusually demanding person, Not just salad: Unlike vegetarians of Indian heritage, Amer- derstanding are what it’s all about: time we cleared a few things up. thing. Desperation made me we don’t expect you to bend over icans often struggle to prepare a wholesome vegetarian meal your porterhouse and my porto- To demonstrate what a veg- order it anyway, and I can backward for us. In fact, if we get the bello coexisting in perfect harmo- etarian really is, let’s begin with tell you that promises have sense that you cooked for three extra ny—though preferably not touch- a simple thought experiment. rarely been more loyally hours to accommodate our dietary prefer- I try to represent for the animal kingdom, ing. We’re actually not so different, after all, Imagine a completely nor- kept than this guy’s pledge ences, we will marvel at your considerate but take a look at my shoes—they’re made of my omnivorous chums. In fact, I like to think mal person with completely that the tofu would taste nature, but we will also feel insanely guilty. leather, which, I am told by those with expert that when an omnivore looks in the mirror, normal food cravings, some- like, uh, that word he said. Similarly, it’s very thoughtful of you to ask knowledge of it, comes from dead cows. This he just sees a vegetarian who happens to eat one who has a broad range of So here’s a tip: Unless you whether it’ll bother me if I see you eat meat, is the sort of revelation that prompts meat meat. Or, no, wait, maybe the mirror sees friends, enjoys a good time, is know you’re in expert hands but don’t worry: I’m not going to compose an boosters to pick up the triumphant lamb the omnivore through the prism of flesh a carbon-based being, and so (Thai restaurants are a epic poem about your corpse sandwich. shank once again and accuse us of hypocrisy. and realizes we all have a crystalline soul. on. Now remove from this per- good bet), don’t even try Which leads me to a vital point for friend- Well, sort of. (Hey, you try to find a pair of Hey, while you’re here: Have I ever told you son’s diet anything that once tofu. Otherwise, it’s ly omnivore-herbivore relations. As you’re nonleather dress shoes.) about anarchism? ∏π had eyes, and, wham!, you your funeral. enjoying that pork loin next to me, I am not My dedication to the cause might be by Taylor Clark, Slate Magazine mark alan stamaty 58 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 59 The Continent: (left) The Indian troupe was a hit in France, where their talents were better showcased than in England.

erature, as well the first French translation of Kalidasa’s Abhigyan Shakuntalam, en- titled La reconnaissance de Sacountala. This was written in 1820 by Antoine-Léonard de Chézy, the first European Professor of San- skrit. With public curiosity further roused by exposure to Western versions of devada- sis on the French stage, the time was clearly ripe for the real artists to be showcased be- fore the French public. Tardival took care to ensure the success of his program. Near the French base of Pondi- cherry in South India, he found a group of authentic devadasis linked to the Perumal temple of Thiruvanthipuram. He commis- sioned them for 18 months. The troupe of five female dancers and three male musi-

cians consisted of Tille Ammal, a woman composers classical of about 30, and four female dancers under her charge: Amany, 18, Saoundiroun and Critic’s choice: (above) Theater an der Ramgoun, both about 14, and Veydoun, just Wien where the devadasis performed; (left) six years old. In contemporary sketches, Vey- Influential theater critic Theophile Gautier doun, who appears dressed in clothes iden- greatly contributed to their popularity; The tical to the older dancers, looks like a mini Theater Royal Adelphi in London version of the others. She was aptly and af- fectionately described by a French theater critic: “Imagine Cupid dyed in black. Vey- doun is the most charming, mischievous and

gautier on dance godfrey new photographics ltd, sidcup, kent sidcup, ltd, new photographics godfrey dance on gautier the brightest little devil.” Records indicate that Tardival offered the Culture troupe an excellent pay package, agreeing to give each dancer Rs. 10 per day (a generous sum in those days), plus an additional 1,000 1838: South Indian Dancers Tour Europe rupees—half at the outset of their engage- ment and the remainder when they returned The bayadères dazzled the French, delighted the English and influenced to India. some of the leading artists, composers and choreographers of the 19th century “A sensation of dazzling light...”

Ammal and her troupe arrived in France on paris bibliothèque de l’opera, lonodon theatrical July 24, 1838. At Bordeaux, their first port of By Dr. Kusum Pant Joshi, England tive (Jacob Haafner) to extremely negative ers. The first European play ever written on call, they watched a performance of the bal- a poetic mystery like the houris of Muham- critic, Gautier was permitted into the house oday, indian dance has a distin- (Abbé Jean-Antoine Dubois). The early devadasis was Antoine-Marin Lemierre’s let, Le Dieu et la Bayadère. Even as mem- mad’s paradise. They were remote, splendid, and was accorded the privilege of watching guished place on the world map. 19th-century Europeans tended to view In- La Veuve du Malabar (1770); the first Eu- bers of the audience, the devadasis “excited fairylike, fascinating. This scented poetry the devadasis and their male musicians per- Despite its antiquity, the first In- dia and other Oriental lands and people with ropean opera on devadasis was Charles- the greatest attention,” according to reports. that—like all poetry—existed only in our form at close quarters. Tdian dance performance in the West wonderment and fascination. Irrespective of Simon Catel’s Les Bayadères (1810); and the A week later, they gave their first perfor- dreams, has now been brought to us.” After Gautier wrote detailed descriptions of the took place less than 200 years ago—in 1838 whether we call this tendency “Orientalism” first Western ballet centered around an In- mance, a private one. Soon they arrived in watching them perform in their residence in dancers, particularly an extremely positive —when a group of devadasis set foot in Eu- or “Romanticism,” a wave of curiosity about dian temple dancer was Le Dieu et la Bay- Paris, where they were greeted with lengthy Paris, Gautier wrote that they were, “charm- account of the grace, beauty and charm of rope. These temple dancers were popularly things Indian swept over Europe. It was on adère, with music by Daniel Auber (1830). articles in the French media. The excitement ing, unimpeachably authentic and exactly Amany. From these reports and other sourc- known as bayadères in France and elsewhere. the crest of such a wave that the first troupe Each of these emerged from France. Some augured well for the success of Tardival’s coincided with the idea we had formed of es, including a statuette of Amany crafted The word—from the Portuguese bailadeira— of Indian temple dancers was carried over of these creative pieces, such as Le Dieu et ambitious program. them.” by French sculptor Auguste Barre, we can names an ethnic or folk dancer. the seas and cast upon European shores. la Bayadère—rechristened as The Maid of The Parisian response was vividly reflected Rumors that they were imposters van- ascertain that the devadasis were adorned Nineteenth-century Europeans knew Cashmere—and Antoine-Marin Lemierre’s by the city’s prominent theater critic, Theo- ished after a command performance before in traditional jewelry, including nose rings, about Indian dance through accounts such The French connection play—modified and renamed The Widow phile Gautier. Regarding the prevailing mood, France’s King Louis Philippe on August 19, bangles, waist belts, ankle bells and silver toe as The Travels of Marco Polo, which includ- Credit for bringing the troupe to Europe of Malabar by the English writer Mariana he wrote: “The very word bayadère evokes where they were showered with gifts from rings. ed Polo’s observations about the devadasis of goes to E.C. Tardival, an enterprising French Starke (1762–1836)—were later staged out- notions of sunshine, perfume and beauty the royal family. Now publicity surrounding A distinct picture of the three male musi- Malabar in South India. Europeans living in impresario. It was natural that the initiative side France. even to the most prosaic and bourgeois mind. the devadasis was so great that there were cians of the troupe also emerges from Gau- India had also taken a fancy to nautch per- came from France, which had a special po- Tardival could hardly have chosen a bet- Imaginations are stirred, and dreams take some real attempts to kidnap them. Tardi- tier’s reviews and is fully corroborated by formances, a popular dance form different sition in Europe as its cultural trendsetter. ter time to present the devadasis in France. shape. There is a sensation of dazzling light, val lodged them in a secluded but verdant contemporary sketches. The grey-bearded from the temple-oriented devadasis. Alone among the countries of Europe, France In the early decades of the century, French and through the pale smoke of burning in- spot by the river Seine in a special bungalow dance master (nattuvanar) and senior-most Western accounts of Indian dance in had consistently acknowledged, in her own appetite for the exotic East was obvious from cense appear the unfamiliar silhouettes of protected by a green shuttered fence with a member of the troupe, Ramalinga Mudali, the 18th century veered from highly posi- art, the existence of Indian temple danc- the appearance of travelogues and new lit- the East. Until now bayadères had remained soldier to guard the entrance. Being a dance conducted the devadasis as he sang, chanted

60 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 61 verses and beat the time (talam) with a pair sionate and burlesque. It is a mixture of mod- made a quick dash across the English Chan- of metal cymbals. The younger musicians, esty and abandonment, of gentleness and nel to book the devadasis. His offer—5,000 Savaranim and Deveneyagornam, played the fury. It is a species of poem in which a Bac- guineas for the entire season—was accepted, bamboo pipes (tutti) and the rice-leaf drum chante recites as she runs—a religious drama, and the Adelphi launched their program on (mattalam), respectively. (The musicians which a young priestess delivers without a the first day of October, 1838. and their instruments are seen at left in the pause—as the god of the pagoda pursued her The devadasis were presented differently drawing on page 34.) to the last.” in London than in Paris. At the Adelphi, the The devadasis’ first public performance at In addition to public approbation, the first item was a prologue titled: “A Race for the Varieties was completely sold out. When dancers were given considerable recogni- a Rarity,” a comic piece where Yates, his ac- a short introductory piece with- tion by French artists. Sculptor tress wife and others characterized the way out the devadasis was being pre- Jean-Antoine Barre (1811-1896) London’s leading theater managers had sented, the crowd reportedly grew made the aforementioned stat- made a beeline to France and were desperate so impatient to see them that the uette of Amany in a dance pose, to secure the devadasis for themselves. Then, management was compelled to based on one of her dance instead of allowing the devadasis to take

stop the performance and allow items called Malapou. He also over the program, Yates treated them as sup- mashkov itar-tass/yuri photos: the devadasis on stage! began working on another porting artists or auxiliaries. Instead of giv- According to an account of their piece modelled on Saoundiran. ing them the freedom to present their dance danced almost every day in Egyptian Hall on £2000 by the speculation. In the family they Ballet: Scenes from La Bayadère, a Rus- reception in Journal des Débats, “The bayadères,” writes Gautier, repertoire, their dance plots were cleverly al- Piccadilly street, in the heart of London. were known as the ‘Buy-em-dears’ [not bay- sian ballet with little influence from “Newpapers and magazines were “are therefore lacking in no type lotted space within popular English themes Some critics were initially skeptical about adères!] ever after.” It seems that, although actual Indian dance by Marius Petipa, replete with articles about them. of illustration. Art, society and or frames with a potential to trigger local how the public would respond to them. their exoticism attracted the English public, first staged in 1877. Set in India, the story Their dancing art was compared fashion are all combining to public interest. There was a group of puritans who, presum- their fascination was ephemeral. Without revolves around the temple dancer Ni- to the legendary Marie Taglioni, pay tribute to them; they are For instance, the devadasis’ dance item ably influenced by the negative projection of an introduction to even the bare basics of kiya and her love for the warrior Solor, the ballerina who had played a truly the lions of the season.” entitled: “Law of Brahma,” or the “Hindoo devadasis as “temple prostitutes,” expressed Indian culture and arts, audiences were sim- who is betrothed to the princess Gamzatti fundamental role in the rise of Widow” was incorporated into a scene set at fears that their performance might have a ply not equipped to appreciate Indian temple (at left). The ballet remains quite popu- romantic ballet with Le Dieu et Across the channel... a Hindu temple within The Widow of Mala- baneful impact on the “morals of the spec- dancing and music, much less to understand lar, especially for “The Shades,” a surreal la Bayadère. The dancers of all Reverberations of the success bar, a popular English play about the much- tators.” On the opening night, some of these its profundity, meaning or intricacies. scene of pure classical ballet (at right), Europe dance with their feet, but of the devadasis were felt out- maligned practice of sati. Similarly, they were puritans had insinuated themselves into the A similar fate awaited the devadasis on which is often performed independently.

that is all. The bayadères dance of art institute courtauld side France. England was the later on fitted into Arajoon, or The Conquest audience and begun a hissing campaign in an their European tour, which included Ger- in a different manner, with their Amany: French first to spring into action. The of Mysore. This highly popular contempo- attempt to stir up trouble during the perfor- many, Austria and Belgium. In Vienna, then dancing, the Austrian press is reported to whole frame. Their heads dance, sculptor Auguste initiative was taken by Freder- rary drama celebrated the ultimate success mance. However, as reported in the London under Emperor Ferdinand, they were pre- have gone to the extent of heaping ridicule their arms dance. Their eyes, Barre’s statue of lead ick Yates, manager of London’s of British arms over one of their most impla- Times, their efforts failed. The great majority sented at the Theater an der Wien, billed upon the devadasis. above all, obey the movement and dancer Amany Theater Royal Adelphi. Yates cable enemies—Tipu Sultan of Mysore. of spectators found everything worth appre- as “Bayadères and their Partners.” Sadly, the Nevertheless, they stirred the creative fury of the dance. Their feet click had an eye for “novelties,” cou- Between October and December 1838, the ciating and absolutely nothing offensive in Viennese public failed to respond positively. energy of some outstanding Austrian com- against the floor; the arms and the hands pled with a fine business acumen. A discern- devadasis gave 55 performances in the Adel- their dance. Apparently due to the troupe’s outlandish posers and artists. The same year that wit- flash in the air; the eyes sparkle; the bosom ing Scotsman and a comic actor himself, he phi. In November and December, they also The positive response received from the appearance, unusual complexion, clothes, nessed the failure of the devadasis in Aus- heaves; their mouths mutter; the whole body seems to have sensed that the devadasis had public was reflected in various reviews of jewelry, makeup, tattoos, music and style of tria also saw Johann Strauss I (1804–1849) quivers.” every chance of catering to the British pub- On the road: This 1830s painting, “Tanjoor their London premiere. “The Bayadères at creating his “Indianer Galopp” under their Then, perhaps capturing the element of lic’s thirst for Oriental exotica and the mys- Nautch,” depicts a South Indian traveling the Adelphi have been completely success- inspiration. A galopp—named after a horse divine inspiration behind their performance, tique of India. He may have also seen this as dance troupe and their musicians who play ful, and are drawing crowds of inquisitive in a hurry—is a ballroom dance which later the Journal, added: “The dance of the bay- a means of recovering the Adelphi’s recent cymbals, flute and mridagam, as well as the spectators,” wrote one critic. “We are in rap- evolved into the polka. Similarly influenced, adères is something strange, impetuous, pas- investment in refurbishing the theater. Yates European violin and bagpipes. tures with the Bayadères,” gushed another dance music composer Josef Franz Karl Lan- in the Era. “Until now,” he added, “poetry of ner (1801–1843) composed his “Malapou motion has been a mere term, and grace, a Galopp,” a love-dance of the Bayadères. Both beau idéal, existing only in the fancy. These were well-received and are still extant. Fur- Hindoo girls, however, embody and give life ther afield, conspicuous, tangible outcomes and portraiture to what has hitherto been of the long-term impact of the devadasis but viewed with the mind’s eye. Their forms included Gautier’s massive ballet Sacoun- are symmetrical to perfection. Every move- tala (1858), choreographed by Lucien Petipa ment is exquisitely graceful, and the ani- (1815–1898) and Lucien’s brother Marius Pe- mation—the flash and soul which lights up tipa’s (1818–1910) highly spectacular ballet the eyes of the dancers as they execute their La Bayadère (see photos at top of page). fascinating evolutions, is absolutely magical. They are said to have sparked off “a trend Conclusion among Adelphi actresses of dyeing their hair The devadasis were a huge public sensation and eyebrows black, and eating olives, on the all over Europe, but the masses were unused understanding that this would darken their to their culture and the profundity of Indian skin.” The devadasis’ success in London led classical dance and music. The true devada- to tours both within and outside Britain. Be- sis soon slipped out of public memory and fore leaving for Europe, they also performed vanished into the limbo of history, and yet in Brighton. European artists continued to strut across Though popular, their Adelphi program in the Western stage playing imaginary deva- the long run did not reap a rich harvest for dasis for years to come! It was only after the

Yates. Some forty years later, Yates’ son recol- uk museum theater dawn of the new century that Indian danc- lected caustically, “They were utterly unin- London: Ad placed by Adelphi Theater in ing would once again draw public attention

v&a museum teresting, wholly unattractive. My father lost The Times in 1838 for the Bayadères in the West. ∏π

62 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 63 reference book reviews Gifts of the Hindu Encyclopedia Released India’s Harappans A Ramakrishna swami devoted three decades to Women e come now to an archeological study that showcases the ingenuity, crafting this cogent and readable religious reference By Tara Katir, Washington, USA creativity, science and technology tephen Huyler is well known to us W of the past: Harappan Architecture from his previous books on India: and Civil Engineering by Jagat Pati Joshi. The By Choodie Shivaram, Bengaluru fectly,” he explained, “I didn’t want to put Village India, Gifts of Earth, Meet- Harappan civilization flourished during the fter thirty-three patient years of them in writing. For instance, Chaitanya Ma- S ing God—Elements of Hindu Devo- 3rd and 2nd millennia bce, reaching its peak research and writing, Swami Har- haprabhu’s Achintya Bheda Abheda School tion and Painted Prayers. His newest book, around 2600, shortly after the development shanandaji, head of Sri Ramakrishna and even ’s philosophy are Daughters of India—Art and Identity, is vi- of Mesopotamia and Egypt. A Math in Bengaluru (as Bangalore is quite tough. I had to study these systems sually beautiful, emotionally sensitive and Professor Joshi writes, “Like the other Old now known), has released A Concise Ency- and present them in a noncontroversial way.” an intelligent look into the everyday lives of World Civilizations, the Harappan civiliza- clopedia of Hinduism. Alphabetically ar- In the early years of the project, his du- The author: Swami Harshananda, who twenty Indian women, of several religions tion seems to have grown from the skillful ranged, the three-volume work covers the ties as head of the Bangalore Ramakrishna joined the Ramakrishna Mission in 1948 and living in various locations throughout utilization of the fertile river systems and gamut of all things Hindu, from scripture, Mission took up much of his time. “Later on,” India and abroad. misrepresentations while giving a voice to their valleys in the northwestern region of philosophy, mythology, festivals, rituals and he said, “as our monastic members became basic materials are the same—rice is there, Huyler writes, “The women of India have some of India’s five hundred million women. the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent. System- sacraments, to pilgrim centers, archaeology more senior, they were able to take greater sugar is there, dal is there, milk is there. The long been misperceived in the West. Abuse Through their words and his amazing pho- atic town planning, fortification of citadel, and lives of great saints. responsibilities and—except for some policy mother of the house, depending upon the towards women pervades Indian society, as tographs, he has captured their strength and elaborate drainage system the idea of es- The collection runs a total of 2,064 pages. matters—I was able to devote more time to capacity of the children, prepares different it does in many parts of the world, but this profound dignity. Some may view the stories tablishing granaries and surplus economy, Illustrations are sparse—a few hundred the work. Generally, I would devote about dishes from these same ingredients. Just so, abuse must be regarded with its own context. and see these women as victims. However, standardization of brick sizes, weights and line drawings and black-and-white photo- three or four hours a day. Periodically, I would Hinduism has also given various methods of Much of Western reportage about Indian Mr. Huyler says, “The chapters are not pro- measures, geometric instruments (e.g. right graphs—but each volume has several pages go to a small meditation retreat we have in philosophical systems of sadhana (spiritual women is misinformed or misguided, de- files of victims, but of women demonstrating angles, linear scale and plumb bob) are the of color photos at the back. The set is priced Shivanhalli village for a week at a time and disciplines) and upasana (worship). Ulti- picting all or most of them as victims. Ter- strength, fortitude, dignity and spirit.” Com- principal gifts of the Harappans to succeed- at Rs. 1,500 in India (e-mail: rkmblr_publi@ write up to ten hours a day. It was all done mately, all of them lead to the same sense of rible inequities within Indian society must plete with full color photographs, Daughters vsnl.net) and about $150 in the US (temple@ by the grace of the Holy Mother, Sri Sarada experience. Suppose I don’t like advaita, the be addressed and changed, but it is essential of India is an extraordinary look into their sfvedanta.org). It has sold briskly since its Devi, to whom I have dedicated the work.” nondualist philosophy. Then there is dvaita, that Indian women also be recognized for lives. This book should help to bring under- release in April, 2008. (If you search for the Asked what his conclusion was after dualism, or vishishtadvaita, between the two. their strengths and for the phenomenal abil- standing and respect to the most significant book online, do not confuse it with Klaus completing such a comprehensive study of If people are serious and sincere about their ities to rise above adversity. India’s cultures part of Indian society today, her women. personal ethical and spiritual life, daughters of india—art and identity, K. Klostermaier’s popular single- are contradictory—a fact epitomized by the abbeville press publishers (www.abbeville.com), 137 volume work of the same title, pub- there is plenty of material in our reli- conflicting attitudes towards women.” varick st., new york, new york 10013, pgs 263, $65.00 lished in 1998.) gion. There is no need to search for it Huyler’s work is an attempt to correct these “The encylopedia is written in elsewhere. Hinduism is not a bundle such a simple style that even an of superstitions. It is a quite well or- undergraduate student can under- ganized, scientific religion. It was stand it,” Swami Harshananda told discovered and rediscovered by the A Biography of Muktananda me. His writing is indeed lucid and various sages through contemplation accessible. For example, in conclud- and meditation. Only then they gave wami Prakashananda’s took place in 1923, changing ing a two-page article on “mind,” he it to us. That is why our philosophical book Baba Muktanan- the course of Baba’s life. A writes, “The main purpose behind systems are called darshanas. They da—A Biography looks deep yearning for a life of spir- the study of the mind [in Hinduism] are not just intellectual philosophi- S into the life of an ex- ituality took precedence, and ing cultures. It was the Harappans who gave is to facilitate its ultimate purifica- cal systems. Darshana means seeing traordinary human being. Swa- he left home forever to pursue the idea of welfare of the workers for the tion leading to the Realization of the and experiencing. Through prayer mi Muktananda Paramahamsa, an inner journey. first time. Different types of hydraulic archi- Atman or the Self. Though there are and meditation they experience it affectionately called Baba by his Swami’s account of Baba’s tecture is another legacy of the Harappans, differences of opinion regarding its and are able to see the truth through devotees, was known by millions early life is interspersed with besides many others in social, economic and nature, the processes of purification the inner eye and then present it in worldwide at the time of his amazing stories of Nityananda, religious fields.” are almost universally accepted.” the way people can understand.” Mahasamadhi in 1982. Swami (who would become Baba’s Illustrated with maps, drawings and pho- Swami, now in his late 70s, first Swami brings a love and respect Prakashananda has written a guru) life at Ganeshpuri, and tographs, this scholarly study is a fascinating came in contact with the teach- to his subject which sets this ency- compelling portrait of this saint- Baba’s travels throughout In- and long overdue look at this ancient civili-

ings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami hinduism today clopedia apart from many produced ly soul. From his mother’s devout dia and the United States. zation. The Western educational view has Vivekananda in 1948 and joined the All you need to know: Swami Harshananda’s lifetime of by Western academics. Readers may, prayers at the Manjunath Siva Included in this marvelous focused on Mesopotamia and Greece as the Ramakrishna Order. He hatched study resulted in these three useful and lucid volumes however, find his coverage of most Temple in Mangalore, South In- biography are many precious “cradle of civilization,” ignoring the larger and the plan for an encyclopedia of topics necessarily but exasperatingly dia, seeking Siva’s Grace for a child, to Baba’s black and white photos of Baba and his guru, equally advanced civilizations in the Indian Hinduism in 1973 and started work in ear- Hinduism, Swami responded: “After go- brief, and treatment of recent Hindu figures world travels, Swami provides us an intimate Nityananda. subcontinent and China. This biased view nest two years later. He spent a year assem- ing through so many books and studying is spotty. Most importantly, there is no index look into the life of this modern-day saint. Baba’s spirituality inspired thousands of of history is coming to an end. The Infin- bling topics, then commenced writing about the subjects properly, I came to the conclu- to enable readers to cross-reference topics. Baba was born May 16, 1908. By the age people. Through Swami’s book, that darshan ity Foundation’s support of Professor’s Joshi’s them alphabetically by hand. sion that ours is a very great religion, a very That said, the book is a remarkable, useful and of 15 he had frequently seen the sadhu continues to flow to the world academic efforts is applauded, as is the work wonderful religion. There is nothing that is reliable reference, written by one who has a baba muktananda—a biography by swami praka­shananda, The most difficult entries, swami confides, Nityananda, who lived an austere life in the sarasvati productions, 1625 hollingsworth dr., mountain itself, which is available at Amazon.com. were those of lesser-known philosophical wanting in it. It is like Sri Ramakrishna said lifetime of first-hand knowledge and appre- Kadri Hills of South India with a sect of Na- view, ca 94040. e-mail: [email protected] harappan architecture and civil engineering by jagat pati 382 pgs, $23.95 joshi rupa & co., 7/16 ansari road, daryaganj, new delhi systems. “Unless I understood them per- of a mother feeding her various children. The ciation of Hinduism. ∏π tha . An intense face-to-face meeting 110 002, india, 218 pgs, $15.11

64 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 65 rhea when drinking milk. Intolerance to worship will give you more power to ayurveda gluten (a component of wheat, rye, barley, minister’s message achieve things in a better manner—not kamut and spelt wheat) occurs as a disease only material things, but to go further and called gluten-sensitive enteropathy. In a find out the meaning of life. common phenomenon called cross-reac- It is common for me hear, “Why do tivity, a person with a history of reacting we need temples? Isn’t the murti just a Avoiding Food Allergies to a certain food, such as shrimp, may also Convey the Teachings! statue? Our elders say that God is present develop an intolerance to related foods, in everywhere.” They deserve good answers. I A seldom recognized condition can be countered this example crab, lobster and crayfish. It is up to us to explain Hinduism to the explain with an analogy. Sunlight is every- The most common food allergy symp- where but the Sun, in spite of its mighty with a healthy diet and Ayurvedic remedies toms are sometimes due to other causes. brilliant new generation. They are interested! heat, cannot burn even one small piece of Some foods contain histamine readily paper under normal circumstances. But available and cause effects that mimic food get one magnifying glass, keep one piece of by Dr. virender sodhi intolerance. Histamine can reach high lev- by Sri Jayendra puri mahaswamiji paper below it and then let sunlight pass els in cheese, some wines and certain fish. through. The paper will go up in flames. It food allergy or sensitivity is an adverse reac- Common compounds most frequently tied During a recent visit to the US, Swamiji visited Kauai’s Hindu happens not because of the glass, which tion to the ingestion of a particular food. It may be to adverse reactions that can be confused Monastery, where we took the opportunity to interview him is simple, uncomplicated and costs just a caused by a protein, a starch or by a contaminant with food allergy are yellow dye number about the impressions American Hindus had left on him. few dollars, but because of the sunlight found in the food, such as today’s ubiquitous color- 5, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and it intensifies. Similarly, God is, by some ings, preservatives, chemicals, pesticides and insecticides. It sulfides, which occur naturally in some What did you see in young Hindus raised in America? technical means, brought into the temple is estimated that 12 million Americans have food allergies, foods but are added to others to enhance I have spoken to young children in my recent visit to America, to bless us, the jivas. That is done by a A and the numbers are rising. Today, six to eight percent of crispness or prevent the growth of mold. from six-year-old Hindus to teenagers. A girl from Jersey pranapratishta (ritual consecration) of children under the age of three have food allergies. Nearly Some people have a food intolerance with a City, who was silent while her parents avidly interacted with the murti and by Sanskrit mantras. The four percent of adults live with them. In my own clinical psychological origin. me, is a good example. After the formal ceremonies, the girl difference between Sanskrit and normal experience, I have found the occurrence of food allergies To correctly diagnose a real food allergy, a came forward and asked me many questions. She actually language is crucial; it creates greater impact. and sensitivities to be even higher. It is a little-known fact doctor first must determine if the patient had listened intently to what I explained during my pada Mantras are selective sound vibrations ex- that food allergy causes roughly 30,000 emergency room is having an adverse reaction to specific puja satsang and brought good questions that related to her perienced by rishis over thousands of years. visits per year in the United States and, tragically, almost foods. The doctor makes this assessment personal life. 200 deaths. with the help of a detailed history from The questions of the average youth about spiritual matters What else is important to explain Although an individual could be allergic to any food, the patient, the patient’s dietary diary or an are very deep now, more so than a few years ago. An eleventh- to the next generation? even fruits and vegetables, eight foods account for 90% of all food- elimination diet. Diagnosis is confirmed by more objective skin tests, grade boy asked me, “Swami, have you seen God? And if you When I talk to our youth, I also pass on allergic reactions: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (walnut, cashew, blood tests or food challenges. have, can you explain it to me? I don’t seem to believe that the respect for our ancient sages. I say to etc.,) fish, shellfish, soy and wheat. The most common food allergies An elimination diet is commonly prescribed to help mitigate food there is any God.” On this trip I have come across many of them, “How can you believe in the exis- in children are caused by milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and wheat. allergies. Commonly eaten foods are eliminated and replaced with this age who have similar questions about God, questions that usu- tence of the rishis? Rishis are great people, like sage Vedavyasa, who Food allergies are associated with a multitude of symptoms and hypoallergenic foods. A standard elimination diet consists of rice, ally would surface only later in life. have given us spiritual knowledge.” I myself have never seen a rishi, can result in a seemingly endless list of illnesses: chronic diarrhea, mung beans, lentils, banana, apple and a cabbage-family vegetable. I recently talked for a long time to that young seeker of Truth. He but I believe in them. To make my point, I inquire, “Have you seen duodenal ulcer, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, malabsorption, It is extremely important that no allergenic foods be consumed in had been through the Western, modern education system, so I used the Mahabharata? Have you seen the Ramayana? Can you write a ulcerative colitis, nephrosis, chronic infections, anxiety, depression, this diet. takashastra, logic. I told him, “You have seen this building where book like that? Could you write one particle of the Mahabharata? hyperactivity, inability to concentrate, insomnia, irritability, men- In such cases, I often prescribe herbs like pippli three times a we are sitting now. Naturally you presume that there is a builder. Just read them and see the power of the rishis. They are spiritual tal confusion, seizures, bursitis, joint pain, low back pain, asthma, day to help increase the secretions of gastrointestinal tract. Trifal From a particular machine, you presume there is a manufacturer scientists.” chronic bronchitis, wheezing, acne, eczema, hives, itching, skin rash, is helpful, eliminating the toxic load and at the same time restor- and some systematic intelligence behind it. So can you imagine such I often explain two important Hindu practices, sadhana and med- arrhythmia, edema, fainting, fatigue, headache, hypoglycemia, itchy ing the lining of the gut back to normal. I also advise curcumin 250 a wonderful creation as our world, consisting of so many real ideas, itation. Sadhana, daily spiritual practice, begins only when you are nose or throat, migraines and sinusitis. mg three times per day. Curcumin helps to stop the inflammation. so many species and you and me, that doesn’t have an intelligence clear about your goal. When I ask, “Are you satisfied with what you What causes food allergy? The condition is often inherited. In addition, it is good to have coconut milk, which contains mostly behind it? You cannot.” He hesitantly said, “Yes, yes.” So, I continued, are doing?” I often hear, “We are living, just like everybody, achiev- When both parents have allergies, there is a 67% chance that the medium chain triglycerides. It is helpful as a food and boosts the “Inside of you there is some power which is making you move. Inside ing things.” But I ask, “Is that all? What is the purpose of life?” Most children will also have them. In cases when only one parent is aller- colonic bacteria. Probiotics are added to help the gut to recover its me there is the same power, making me speak. A car cannot move will say it is happiness. But is there such a thing as unwavering hap- gic, the chance of a child being prone to allergies is still high, almost gut flora back to normal. without energy. Similarly with my body and yours. But what is this piness? When you discover you need God to be your goal, then you a third. Other factors include constant exposure to a certain food, The patient stays on the elimination diet for at least one week, power?” He analyzed my arguments little by little. When I said the begin true sadhana. Then comes meditation, or dhyanam in San- improper digestion and poor integrity of the intestinal barrier. In and up to one month. After the elimination-diet period, individual sum of all actions and all ideas and all power is God, he was con- skrit. It is a continuous flow of mental energy in one direction. For fact, allergenic foods are often among those we crave the most. foods are reintroduced every two days. Reintroduction of allergenic vinced and sighed, “Now I know there is a God.” beginners, I suggest meditating on Lord Ganesha’s white form. The We are exposed to environmental pollution and to food chain foods will typically produce a more severe or recognizable symptom moment we have the mind flowing to Lord Ganesha’s white form, pollution, with genetically modified food, hazardous chemicals in than before, allowing us to identify the root causes. How can we encourage them to attend the temples? detached from all other colors or thoughts, one thing ties to another our water and an increased intake of packaged food. These are new We can keep ourselves free from food allergies. Create a relation- Temple worship, so central to our religion, is something we have in a seeker’s mind. challenges to the body, and our immune system does not cope well ship with your food. Eat real food, in its original form, which has to carefully explain. The first step for the young to understand the When I am asked how to reach a deeper state of meditation, I with them, creating a background for allergies and sensitivities. been minimally processed or altered. If bugs avoid it, it probably is value of temple worship is to meditate upon “janma mrithu jerra explain that one needs a guru for that. I say, “You have done your In its classic form, a food allergy occurs when an ingested food not good for you either. Eat slowly and chew your food properly. Do riadi,” meaning "the reason for their earthly birth." Why are we practice many times, but your mind is still wavering.” One needs molecule acts as an antigen­—a toxin or other foreign substance not exercise right after eating. Also, avoid drinking much water with born? And is death in our hands? And during old age, can you stop help to reach the source of the mind, which is the source of every- that induces an immune response, producing antibodies, our body’s food, as it dilutes your gastric juices. Water is better in-between decay and disease? Such is life, we are all afflicted with these things thing. What I can understand, a child maybe will not. Similarly, we guardian cells. Antibodies are protein molecules, made by white meals. Eat food which is available in season which has been organi- without knowing why. Not only this, but all of us are internally cannot understand what an advanced yogi sees, but we hear about it blood cells. They bind themselves to foreign substances, in this case cally or naturally grown. inspired to find something meaningful. That propels us to realize from him. He helps us awaken our positive energies with discipline, the food antigens. These food antigens may cause the release of his- Remember, good food is a wonderful friend to our health. something beyond us, some shakti beyond us. and he makes us proceed toward realizing God. tamines, which cause swelling, inflammation and an array of differ- How to connect ourselves with this shakti? I ask the children and ent signs and symptoms. dr. virender sodhi holds an M.D. (Ayurveda) from India and a the youth, “Are you always successful in whatever you do? No, it’s sri jayendra puri mahaswamiji is the guru mahasannidhanam of Lactase deficiency is a common cause of food intolerance, in N.D. from Bastyr College of Naturopathic Medicine, USA. E-mail: not like that. You don’t control everything. You know that there Kailash Ashram in Bengaluru, successor to his guru, the late Sri Sri which a person can experience bloating, abdominal pain and diar- [email protected]. Web: www.ayurvedicscience.com is one factor which is not in our hands: the divine power.” Temple Tiruchi Mahaswamigal, Hindu of the Year 2003.

66 hinduism today january/february/march, 2009 january/february/march, 2009 hinduism today 67 www.hinduismtoday.com archeology Archaeos Opens a Digital Window on Fabulous Vijayanagara ince we first wrote about ect result web site contains panora- Sthis site in 2001, Archaeos com- mas, photos, PDFs of archeological pleted two more years of mapping reports and videos. Be sure to go the renowned city of Vijayanagar in through each link. At the “Features” South India. In the 15th century, this link, stop and click on every view to Hindu “City of Victory” was possibly see closeups of carvings, walls, en- the largest city (650 sq. km.) in the closures, tools, etc. world. It was ruthlessly destroyed Only a limited area of the ruins 450 years ago by Muslim armies. has been designated for conserva- The Archaeos Vijayanagar Mapping tion. The Archaeos mapping project Project (www.archaeos.org/vmp/) has proved that the extent of the city was conducted from 2001-2003. is much greater. “It is hoped that the From fields of rubble, Archaeos has work will aid in the preservation of captured remarkable views of a civi- the site as a whole, known as ‘Group lization whose influence reached the of Monuments at Hampi’ on UNES- far shores of Indonesia and Vietnam CO’s list of World Heritage Sites. It and changed the world. Archeos covers zones not currently protected tried to answer some key archeologi- or designated for excavation and cal questions. How big was the city? provides another perspective on What size were the complexes? more areas within this culturally Above is a frame from one of the eleven panoramas that What were they used for? The proj- rich and lively yet endangered site.” survey the ruins of one of history’s earliest cities

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Kauai Aadheenam Monastic Endowment Total 65.74 Alaveddy Pasupatheeswarar Temple Fund Jeri Arin 300.00 K. Lakshmi Kantha Reddy US$201.00 Prasad Krishnan 1.50 Sunil Chacko 368.38 Darma & Shivali Satgunasingam 75.00 Kauai Aadheenam Matavasi Medical Fund Maruthu Pandian Darmalingam 43.90 Niraj Thaker 98.50 Shyamadeva Dandapani 63.00 Kauai Aadheenam Religious Joel Knepp 501.00 P r i e s t ’ s Fu n d Su pp o r t s Sa t g u r u ’ s Ma l ay s i a Tr a v e l Other Donations 16,965.21 Maruthu Pandian Darmalingam 43.90 Art and Artifacts Fund Thulasidas Nadarajah 60.00 Total 17,339.71 Gowri Nadason 159.80 Rajadeva Alahan 153.00 Roshan Nathoo 468.37 Vayudeva Varadan 54.00 Kumar Ranganathan 300.00 Whenever Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami of the Kauai Monastery goes to Malaysia, a Hindu Iraivan Temple Endowment Other Donations 4,800.00 A. Saravanapavan Family Murugan Ganga Sivanathan 200.00 Anonymous 1832.00 Total 5,120.70 Temple Pillaiyar Shrine Fund Soma Sundaram 30.00 priest and astrologer from Ulu Behrang, Parak helps pay for his travel. Hotranatha Ajaya 25.00 Chitranjan Saravanapavan 60.00 Silas H. Zirkle 450.00 Roger & Rosemary Brown 120.00 Tirunavukkarasu Nayanar Gurukulam Pathmini Saravanapavan 100.00 Total 2,952.65 The priest’s son, Selvanathan Jothiswarar of Kuala Lumpur, says his father combines generos- Victoria Lynne Johnson 51.00 Roshan Nathoo 468.37 Total 160.00 Latha Kannan 153.00 Deva Rajan 108.00 Siva Poomi School Trust ity with practicality. “He says that when it comes to swamis, instead of giving what we like, it’s Trond Liland 60.00 Total 576.37 Thank You Bodhinatha Fund Shun K. Sunder 3,000.00 Rasa Rajanayagam 1,001.00 Anonymous 845.50 important to give what they need,” Mr. Selvanathan stated. Kumar Ranganathan 125.00 Sri Subramuniya Kottam Fund Hotranatha Ajaya 22.00 Yogaswami Hindu Boys’ Home Fund S. & N. Ravindran 45.00 Anonymous 50.00 Durvasa Alahan 108.00 Siva & Dharshi Balasingham 75.00 His father, also named Jothiswarar, helps offset an Jnana Sivananda 100.00 Amarnath & Latha Devarmanai 324.00 Maruthu Pandian Darmalingam 43.90 Niraj Thaker 98.50 Kumbhalavalai Ganesha Temple Endowment Toshadeva Guhan 108.00 Charles Hayse 1,000.00 unavoidable expense. Though Veylanswami spends Gunavinthan Siva Thirumalai 80.00 Thulasidas Nadarajah 60.00 Thulasidas Nadarajah 60.00 Betty Lee Holland 200.00 Raja Vishnu 30.00 Manoharan Navaratnarajah 75.00 Kumar Natarajan 100.00 Natraj Narayanswami 21.00 most of the year on the island of Kauai where he Other Donations 23,569.35 Total 135.00 Manoharan Navaratnarajah 150.00 Roshan Nathoo 468.37 Total 27,289.85 Shanta Devi Periasamy 115.00 Kumar Ranganathan 75.00 overseas a monastery-temple and its publication Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Alex Ruberto 45.00 Dharmalingam Siddhan 50.00 Kauai Aadheenam Annual Archana Fund Devasthanam Trust Aran Sambandar 108.00 Total 1,933.27 operations, his duties require travel throughout Sivanathan Batumalai 30.37 Anonymous 30.00 Laurie & Mark Scurich 300.00 North America and Asia. He regularly holds pil- Gunavadee Caremben 14.11 Niraj Thaker 22.00 Kodiswara Satguru Malaysia Travel Fund Somasundaram Caremben 14.11 Malaysia Hindu Renaissance Fund Vayudeva Varadan 63.00 Rani Jothiswarar Estate 100.00 grimages, gives talks and conducts ceremonies in Sukanta Caremben 14.11 Anonymous 75.00 Raja Vishnu 30.00 Sharath Chigurupati 369.00 Rajiv Verma 16.66 Total 2,400.50 Maha Ganapati Temple of Malaysia, India, Mauritius, Canada, Singapore and Tarakini Gunasegaran 20.54 Total 91.66 Arizona Endowment Victoria Lynne Johnson 17.00 Udayan Care Endowment Fund Chellappa Deva 75.00 elsewhere. Amooda Koothan 34.76 Hinduism Today Production Fund Anonymous 25.00 Saravan Koothan 3.74 Shashikumar Bellur 250.00 Natraj Narayanswami 21.00 Murugan Temple of North The elder Jothiswarar first started supporting Saroja Devi Manickam 4.50 Hiranya Gowda 93.00 Roshan Nathoo 468.37 America Puja Fund Navindhiraan Murugesu 250.00 K. C. Gupta 1,001.00 Total 514.37 Vayudeva Varadan 54.00 Malaysian travels for Veylanswami’s predeces- Navukarasu Muthusamy 30.37 Vijay Pallod 504.00 Bodhinatha with Selvanathan (top center) Bijamati Pareatumbee 5.41 Urmil Shukla 1,000.00 Saivite Hindu Scriptural Fund Saivite Tamil Foundation Endowment sor, the late Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami Padmini Pareatumbee 5.41 Total 2,848.00 for the Visually Impaired Suresh Jambunathan 25.00 and his father, Jothiswarar (right) Kirtideva Peruman 11.11 Alex Ruberto 45.00 (Gurudeva). Mr. Jothiswarar would ask the trip Niroshnee Peruman 5.77 Vishwamata Gayatri Trust Fund Rani Jothiswarar Memorial Fund Akileiswaran Samuthiran 25.07 Anonymous 25.00 Sri Chandra Madhab Debnath Endowment Rani Jothiswarar Estate 250.00 organizers how he could help and then charge Gurudeva’s hotel and travel expenses to his Jayasutha Samuthiran 24.37 Anonymous 30.00 Mahendra Raj-Sharmila 50.00 credit card, making the holy visitor a guest to his nation. Devaladevi Sivaceyon 11.88 Hindu Orphanage Endowment Fund Rajiv Verma 16.67 Total 300.00 Nutanaya Sivaceyon 23.74 Anonymous 50.00 Total 46.67 Patudeva Sivaceyon 11.88 Kumar Ranganathan 100.00 Ramanathaswamy Temple Cleaning Fund “Dad then got the idea of starting an endowment fund for Satguru’s Malaysian travels,” Mr. Sel- Hemavalli Sivalingam 1.77 Alex Ruberto 75.00 Manitha Neyam Trust Fund Jnanideva Cevvel 500.00 Kantaruban Sivalingam 2.69 Rodney & Ilene Standen 30.00 Bala Sivaceyon 47.47 Niraj Thaker 22.00 vanathan recounted. His father established the Kodiswara Satguru Malaysia Travel Fund at the Rohini Sivalingam 0.92 Niraj Thaker 22.00 Total 522.00 Shivaani Sivananda 22.27 Rajiv Verma 16.67 Kapaleeshwara Temple Orphanage Hindu Heritage Endowment, naming it after his grandson Kodiswara who had been named by Potriyan Sivanathan 12.09 Raja Vishnu 30.00 Prasad Krishnan 1.50 Hindu American Foundation Endowment Gurudeva. In Mr. Selvanathan’s view, “It was as though Gurudeva himself had named the fund.” Siven Veerasamy 11.55 Total 323.67 Natraj Narayanswami 21.00 Hindu American Foundation 10,000.00 Total 978.54 Niraj Thaker 22.00 Hindu Education Endowment Total 44.50 The Endowment for Global Hindu Rights Mr. Jothiswarar’s personal journey was not an easy one. After being orphaned at age five, he Hinduism Today Lifetime Subscription Fund Hasu N. & Hansa H. Patel 100.00 Hindu American Foundation 10,000.00 Yatrika Ajaya 109.70 Manjung Hindu Sabha Orphanage Fund Anonymous 75.00 was adopted by a Sri Lankan family. He received training in astrology and the priesthood in Sri Jeri Arin 252.00 Suntheram Family Trust Fund Roshan Nathoo 468.37 Total 10,075.00 Ram M Cheerath 240.00 Ramachandran Suntheram 1,000.00 Lanka. He left his adoptive family at age 16, finally marrying and settling in Ulu Behrang. He Rosa Jaramillo 77.80 Pazhassi Balamandiram Orphanage Fund Cows of Kadavul and Iraivan Temples became active in politics and, with the help of a government grant, built a Tamil school and a Subbiah Lakshmanan 696.00 Hindu Press International Endowment Fund Prasad Krishnan 1.50 (Kovil Maadu) Endowment Navindhiraan Murugesu 260.17 Hiranya Gowda 63.00 Roshan Nathoo 468.37 Azagun Marudamuthu 30.00 Lord Subramanya temple on a nearby estate in 1967 and a Lord Ganesha Temple in Ulu Behrang Shankar Paramasivam 240.00 Arun J. Mehta 500.00 Total 469.87 Nigel Subramaniam Siva 5,000.00 Akshar Patel 800.00 Anonymous 108.00 Niraj Thaker 22.00 in 1975. Bharati Patil 240.00 James Stapleton 54.00 Karnataka Temple Development Fund Total 5,052.00 Subramaniam Pennathur 240.00 Total 725.00 Hiranya Gowda 303.00 Adi Sankara Perumal 30.79 Jaffna Kannathiddy Kali Kovil Endowment Gurudeva visited the temple in 1983 and, according to Mr. Selvanathan, had a vision of Lord Anjeeni Devi Perumal 15.40 Loving Ganesha Distribution Fund Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple of Nigel Subramaniam Siva 5,000.00 Ganesha listening to his father who by now was known throughout Malaysia as one of its lead- Niroshnee Peruman 10.88 Manoharan Navaratnarajah 75.00 Utah Endowment Fund Jayasutha Samuthiran 6.71 Gassa Patten 1,000.00 Aditya Vinadhara 400.00 Hindu Temple of the Woodlands Endowment ing astrologers. Rohan Sundaralingam 240.00 Niraj Thaker 22.00 Sharad & Beth Kulkarni 1,000.00 Siven Veerasamy 21.78 Total 1,097.00 Hinduism Today Complimentary Urmil Shukla 4,000.00 Total 3,481.23 Subscription Fund Total 5,000.00 Now 75, Mr. Jothiswarar is twice a recipient of the government’s Distinguished Conduct Medal Swami Agnivesh Endowment Fund Hiranya Gowda 153.00 Hindu Businessmen’s Association Trust Prasad Krishnan 1.50 Kauai Aadheenam Renovation Endowment (Pingat Pekerti Terpilih) and the Meritorious Service Medal (Pingat Jasa Kebaktian) for his Janaka Param 14.00 Himalayan Academy Book Distribution Fund Other Donations 600.00 social service work. His son, Mr. Selvanathan, has followed his father’s example and established Paramaseeven Canagasaby 18.57 Saiva Agamas Trust Shyamadeva Dandapani 63.00 Vel Mahalingum 22.22 Ganga Sivanathan 284.00 Raja Vishnu 30.00 the Rani Jothiswarar Memorial Fund (fund #66) at HHE in honor of his late wife (see Hindu- Manogaran Mardemootoo 55.52 Total 93.00 Total Contributions $111,779.67 Vedapragassen Peruman 7.22 Tirumular Sannidhi Preservation Fund ism Today Oct-Nov-Dec 2008.) The fund supports the retreat facilities for the monks at Kauai’s Total 117.53 Shyamadeva Dandapani 63.00 Kauai Aadheenam Yagam Fund Funds at Market Value, Sep 30, 2008 Victoria Lynne Johnson 17.00 Total Endowment Funds $7,870,955.04 Hindu Monastery. Boys School for Iraivan Priesthood Mauritius Saiva Dharmasala Endowment Total Pooled Income Funds $195,143.95 David Bohn 20.00 Azagun Marudamuthu 30.00 Yogaswami Hindu Girls’ Home An engineer by profession, Mr. Selvanathan now works as an astrologer in Kuala Lumpur and Bala Sivaceyon 23.74 of Sittandy Endowment Grand Total $8,066,098.99 Niraj Thaker 22.00 Anonymous 231.00 regularly assists his father with the Ganesha Temple prayer services in Ulu Behrang. For information about the Kodiswara Satguru Malaysia Travel Fund or to establish your own fund, contact Shanmuganathaswami at [email protected]. To donate to this fund, visit www. MISSION STATEMENT: Hindu Heritage Endowment is a publicly supported, charitable organization recognized as hheonline.org. tax exempt by the IRS on April 22, 1994. Employer ID 99-0308924. Founded by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, its philanthropic mission is to provide secure, professionally managed financial support for institutions and religious leaders of all lineages of Sanatana Dharma. • PROFESSIONAL ADVISORs: Halbert, Hargrove/Russell, Investment Hi n d u He r i t a g e En d o w m e n t Counsel; Sonoda & Isara, LLP, CPA; Phil Murphy, Planned Giving Specialist. HHE is a member of the Council on Kauai’s Hindu MONASTERY, 107 Kaholalele Road, Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746-9304 USA Foundations, an association of more than 2,000 foundations, and of the National Committee on Planned Giving, the 808-822-3012, ext 244 • fax: 808-822-3152 • [email protected] • www.hheonline.org voice and professional resource for the gift planning community. Miniature crystal Ganeshas from Kauai's Hindu Monastery Keep Ganesha close with these delightful images, 1 to 1.5 inches tall. 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76 77

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Chakrapani Ullal, Vedic Astrology American Institute ofof VedicVedic StudiesStudies

World-renowned teacher Expand your horizons inin acred Gifts and advisor, Chakrapani Ullal, Vedic and Hindu Dharma. From kauai's Hindu Monastery consults internationally with Practical teachings of From kauai's Hindu Monastery people from all walks Vamadeva Shastri (Dr. Home of HinduismHome Today of Magazine Hinduism Today Magazine of life. As the founding honor- David Frawley). Authentic ary chairman of the ACVA Vedic knowledge in a clear (American Council of Vedic modern idiom. Books, s s Astrology), he has played courses, conferences andand an active role in bringing research informationinformation fromfrom Now together the Eastern Indian thethe ancientancient Rig Veda toto Vedic astrologers and India inin thethe PlanetaryPlanetary AgeAge.. Western astrologers. Consid- Dr. Frawley’s latest books: ered a teacher of teachers, he • Yoga and the Sacred Fire:Fire: travels widely as an author, Self-realizationSelf-realization andand lecturer and consultant. PlanetaryPlanetary TransformationTransformation Born into a traditional Hindu lineage of astrologers in • The Rig Veda and the HistoryHistory ofof IndiaIndia South India, Chakrapani began his training at an early • How I Became a Hindu: MyMy DiscoveryDiscovery ofof VedicVedic DharmaDharma in Tamil age and enjoyed associations with many of India’s most re- Courses from the Institute: 10-Questions booklet. TenThe QuestionsPower of Affirmation. booklet AUMHistory Namah lesson Sivaya booklets. bracelet. Raising Childrenvered booklet and celebrated saints and sages. With over 45 years • New Advanced Yoga andand AyurvedaAyurveda DistanceDistance LearningLearning Crisp answers to those tough Uplift your life with this booklet MadeFinally, from accurate the traditional and unbiased pancha- Golden guidelinesof for experience, raising his depth of knowledge and unique under- Program • Ayurvedic Healing CourseCourse forfor HealthHealth CareCare Crisp answers to those tough standing of how astrological principles apply to different questions about Hinduism, in questionsof potent aboutaffirmations Hinduism. with in- lokaHindu, five history metals. for Excellent 10-12-year-olds. quality, children as good, happy Hindus. Professionals • Astrology ofof thethe Seers,Seers, VedicVedic AstrologyAstrology cultures are sought out by people from all over the world. Course. Tamil. 16 p., $1.50 (less for quantity) 16structions pages, $1.50, from lessGurudeva. for quantity. $19.95 5⁄8"-wide16 p. each, bands, $1.50 $21.00 (less for. quantity) 16 pages, $1.50, lessFor for more quantity. information and a schedule of his upcoming American Institute of Vedic Studies itinerary, please contact: American Institute of Vedic Studies PO Box 8357, Santa Fe,Fe, NMNM 87504-835787504-8357 USAUSA Chakrapani Ullal • 500 South Lorraine Blvd tel:tel: 505-983-9385505-983-9385 •• fax:fax: 505-982-5807505-982-5807 Los Angeles, CA 90020 USA [email protected]@vedanet.com •• www.vedanet.comwww.vedanet.com tel: 323-931-9988 • fax: 323-931-9989 ((Note our Vedanet resourceresource guideguide andand [email protected] • www.chakrapani.com on-line books andand information.)information.)

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