November 2008 Annual Subscription Rs. 60 Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Ahmedabad, September 2008 November 2008, Vol. 31 No. 11

CONTENTS FIRST WORD

1. History and New Year celebrations are the A Proposal to Build a Mandir ...... 4 The British invite Shri Hari to Ahmedabad... crown of all festivals in the Hindu calendar. 2. On Life They not only usher in a spirit of joy, divinity, What’s in a Name...? ...... 7 love and celebration but instil a new zest for What one values most... success and transformation in life. Both festi- 3. Personality Development vals empower us with spirituality; awakening Step-by-Step or Giant Leaps? ...... 9 all that is positive and good within. The best way to improve?... Amidst all our daily burdens and responsi- 4. Bhajan History Nirvikalp Uttam Ati Nischay bilities it is important to be optimistic. Opti- Tav Ghanshyam...... 11 mistic people have more chances to succeed 5. On Life and be happy not only because they believe Aim for Success...... 13 Setting life’s targets... that things will turn out right, but because 6. Discourses their positive thoughts make them strive hard- Igniting the Light Within ...... 15 er and be mentally accommodative. 7. BAPS News Another aspect of today’s life is that our ener- Europe Karyakar Milan 2008, gies are dispersed in too many things, some of Engelberg, Switzerland ...... 17 which are unnecessary, wasteful and harmful. Family Activity Centre Opens at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan The result is that we fail to be outstanding in Mandir, Lilburn, GA...... 17 anything. We need to decide and learn to con- Open House London...... 18 centrate on a definite aim, purpose or vision National Vidyarthi Shibir, London .....19 All-India Karyakar Adhiveshan, that is important in achieving something sub- Bochasan & Ahmedabad ...... 19 stantial in life. Swaminarayan Akshardham: Guinness The third element for upgrading ourselves is World Records ...... 20 the willingness to work hard. We should buoy our Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 88th Birthday Celebration ...... 22 minds for hard work. Through hard work one Website: www.swaminarayan.org acquires not only outward success but one learns E-mail: [email protected] about oneself that which idleness never reveals. Founder: HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas The fourth point is discipline. Without disci- Contributors: Sadhu Vivekjivandas, Sadhu Amrutvijaydas pline we cannot hope to achieve enduring Designer: Sadhu Shrijiswarupdas Published & Printed by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith, happiness and joy. Shahibaug, Ahmedabad–380 004. India. And lastly, faith in God is the panacea of all SUBSCRIPTION RATES Outside India (By Air Mail) India our ills and the source of eternal bliss. Rupees Pounds US DollarsRupees May Diwali and New Year celebrations help 1 Year 400 6 10 60 2 Years 800 12 20 110 kick-start a higher and happier life. 3 Years 1200 18 30 160 A Happy Diwali and New Year! ◆ SWAMINARAYAN HISTORY: TRANSLATION: SADHU VIVEKJIVANDAS

Shri Hari arrives in Ahmedabad amidst a warm welcome by the British administrator, Mr. Heron, his officials, and the local devotees and citizens. Mr Heron requests him to stay and build a mandir...

otera had become a holy place due relief. Shri Hari said, “One who is drowning will to Maharaj’s association. Purushot- drown another, but one who can swim will save Mtamdas Patel and Bhudardas Patel, another.” A sadhu replied, “But an eddy pulls in the local devotees, welcomed and honoured even the best of swimmers.” Maharaj smiled Shri Hari on his arrival. They offered a feast for and added, “Through my association even an Maharaj and his entire entourage. Thereafter eddy gives up its deathly swirls and becomes Maharaj proceeded ahead towards the river normal.” Then Maharaj explained, “A tornado Sabarmati that flowed on the outskirts of asked someone, ‘Have you seen the wind?’ Pat Ahmedabad. On seeing its clean waters Maharaj came the reply, ‘Give up your swirls and you expressed a wish to have a bath. He got off his will become the wind.’ Similarly, because of a mare, Manki, and advised all, “Look, the river turbulent nature the wind becomes a tornado has deep currents in the middle, producing and water becomes an eddy.” Shri Hari’s telling eddies. Don’t swim that far. Only those who can words oozed with wisdom. swim should enter the waters while the rest can It was dusk when Maharaj arrived at the city bathe by the banks.” Then Shri Hari entered the of Srinagar (Ahmedabad). He was festivally water and swam to the deep middle part of the welcomed by Mr. Heron, the British administra- river in spite of everyone having told him not to tor, his officers, and the local devotees and citi- do so. Then Maharaj went under water. Every- zens. Maharaj met Mr. Heron. He doffed his one held their breaths anxiously. Some started hat and offered namaskar. Then he shook hands chanting dhun for his safe emergence. When with Shri Hari and welcomed him spoke in bro- Maharaj broke the surface all breathed a sigh of ken Hindi, “Please stay here and make a mandir. You have chosen the land next to

4 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 Navavas, for which your disciples have made for the proposed mandir. He called Kubersinh the required application procedures. I have and told him, “We want to also acquire the already sent the papers with my recommenda- open land around this proposed mandir plot. tion to London. Once the approval arrives I will Make a further application for it and the obtain give you the land with its official documents.” the necessary documents thereafter.” Shri Hari was pleased with him, and blessed Kubersinh informed, “My younger brother, him with garland. Thereafter Mr. Heron and his Nanabhai, was thinking similarly to what you’ve officers departed. said.” Maharaj called for Nanabhai and blessed Shri Hari entered the city through the Delhi him with a garland round his neck and said, gate. What a grand joyous welcome it was. He “Once the land officially becomes ours first had not visited Ahmedabad since the day the construct residential quarters for the sadhus.” Suba had ordered him out ten years ago. The Then Maharaj showed him the extra land he devotees were simply overwhelmed at Maharaj’s desired to have and said, “Make the documents arrival. The streets were clean and decorated in on my name.” his honour. The English band marched and Shri Hari then visited and sanctified the played a string of welcome tunes. Several homes. Motiram the sentry told Maharaj, “Mr. groups of musicians sang and played the cym- Heron has great respect and admiration for you. bals and dhols heralding Shri Hari’s arrival. The He wishes to invite you to his residence. At your sadhus too sang bhajans. At intervals the loud consent I shall inform him.” proclamations of ‘Swaminarayan’ rent the air. Maharaj told Motiram to do so. All this arrested the attention of residents and Mr. Heron had made all the arrangements passersby. Many came out onto their galleries for Shri Hari’s arrival. He sent his men to escort and verandahs to see the divine spectacle. The Shriji Maharaj, , Nityanand devout showered flowers to honour Maharaj. Swami, , Anandanand The procession arrived at Manek Chowk by the Swami, and devotees: Nanabhai, Kubersinh mansion of Himabhai Sheth. His mother and Chopdar, Hirachand Choksi, Damodar Patel, family members honoured Maharaj by shower- Prananath Shukla, Narbheram Shastri, Daha ing gold and silver flowers. They felt blessed by Khachar, Sura Khachar, Somla Khachar, Vasta Maharaj’s darshan. Khachar, Amra Khachar and others. Shriji Soon the procession terminated and Shri Maharaj rode on his Manki and the devotees Hari arrived at Navavas. Here he sat on a seat were astride on their horses. The sadhus were arranged beneath a neem tree in an open walking ahead singing bhajans while many ground. Maharaj talked about the annakut fes- devotees were following at the rear of the group tival that he had celebrated at Adaraj. Then he singing the Swaminarayan dhun. The residence added, “Tomorrow is Praboodhini ekadashi. It is of Mr. Heron was by the Three Gates (Teen Dar- also the birthday of my father, Dharmadev. Thus waja). On arriving there they were led to Mr. tomorrow is a sacred day. Everyone shall Heron. Mr. Heron held Maharaj’s hand and led observe a waterless fast. To restrain our five him to an ornate chair. After exchanging formal- senses from their respective ‘foods’ is the ities and courtesies Maharaj stated, “God is essence of the ekadashi celebration. Therefore pleased upon one who has morality in life. One all should observe it with faith and devotion.” who abides by dharma in his administrative Everyone agreed to abide by Shri Hari’s com- duties and in life becomes ever victorious and mand. successful. But when one transgresses dharma The next day Maharaj saw the plot of land one loses one’s wisdom and becomes socially

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 5 devastated.” Then Maharaj added, “I like the “Then on whose behalf have you offered all open space near Navavas and we have as yet to this?” Maharaj enquired. apply for it.” Mr. Heron happily gave his con- “Maharaj, it all belongs to the widow of Mr. sent and garlanded Shri Hari. Then he offered Parekh – the latter was a renowned wealthy baskets of paan, cloves, cardamom and expen- person of Ahmedabad and Vadodara. She is a sive cloth to Maharaj. He then applied perfume Vaishnav by faith. And through the discourses of on Shri Hari’s hand and offered an expensive Ajubhai, a devotee who lives at Karali near shawl. Mr. Heron also offered a shawl to Muk- Vadodara, she became a . All this is has tanand Swami and expensive cloths to sadhus. been offered by her.” The widow, who was pre- Then he briefly conversed with the Kathi dar- sent at Nathubhai’s home, called Nathu Bhatt bars. and gave a necklace studded with gems, a coat, As Shri Hari was about to depart Mr. Heron surwal, red rento, shawl and other things for folded his hands in respect and farewell. Maharaj. Nathu Bhatt offered them all to Maharaj told Muktanand Swami, “Ten years ago Maharaj, then smeared chandan on Maharaj’s the Peshwa’s Suba had conspired to kill me in feet and on the forehead of all sadhus. Then he this very place. And today, the English ruler has gave each sadhu a dhotiyu. Shri Hari was honoured and welcomed us. People recognize pleased with the widow’s devotion. great holy men through their sanskars, regard- Shri Hari told Nathu Bhatt, “You have been less of whether they are English or .” Mr. serving me a lot. Even today you have brought Heron added, “What you said was true. A king- a lot of gifts. But you have not been able to dom is destroyed by flouting morality or dhar- realize my true form.” ma. Bless me that my mind does not become Nathu Bhatt was a little puzzled as to what corrupt and base.” Shri Hari blessed him and Maharaj was saying to him. He asked, “Maharaj, returned to his residence. I am unable to understand what’ve said. I do Maharaj stayed in Ahmedabad for fifteen deeply believe that you are God.” days. The highlight of his stay was the launch- “Then why did you slap Damodar after what ing of the mandir project. On the day that he had said?” Maharaj asked. Maharaj was to depart Nathu Bhatt came and Nathu Bhatt recalled the incident and clari- prayed, “Maharaj you have sanctified everyone’s fied, “Damodar has no intelligence. He does not homes but I was left out. Do come and bless my understand the words of the shastras. Once he home.” Shri Hari agreed immediately and told told me, ‘Maharaj is supreme God and the cause him to call Damodarbhai, a sincere devotee, at of all avatars. , Krishna and other avatars his home. When Maharaj arrived Nathu Bhatt are born from Maharaj’s divine form and finally worshipped him and offered clothes, a pagh and they all merge into him. By saying such things donations in cash. Maharaj was aware of that are against the shastras reflect badly upon Nathubhai’s poverty and meagre means, so he you and our sampraday. Ever since the day I stated, “It seems that lakshami (wealth) has slapped him he has stopped talking in such a been generous upon you without my consent!” manner.” Nathu Bhatt simply broke into a smile and (To be contd.) replied, “Maharaj, lakshami is your servant. She ◆ would never bless anyone with riches without Translation from Bhagwan Swaminarayan your command. Whatever that I’ve offered is by H.T. Dave not mine, but someone else’s. I subsist by beg- ging.”

6 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 ON LIFE: BAPS YOUTHS, USA What’s in a Name...?

The fact that your mind But still more What Are You is capable of taking a incredible is the fact What do people think circle, two dots and a that you cannot avoid line and turning them seeing a face here. about and value the most? into a face is nothing Your mind won’t short of incredible! Let you! What are the consequences of this?

f you think about what the illustration is trying to say – it is quite Really Seeing? I amazing. Given a crude circle and a few lines, we identify ourselves. In fact, our minds won’t let us see any- thing there but a face. We are so con- We humans are a self-centered ditioned to this that we see ourselves race. in everything – even an electrical outlet! Our ego and mind are this powerful. Since all of humanity seems to have this flaw it affects soci- ety itself. We spend millions of dollars on ourselves, indulging in cosmetic surgery to that ab-roller machine that collects dust under our beds. In fact, We this force is so strong that it affects see ourselves even the so-called logical and unbi- in everything. ased realm of science. For how many years did the European scientific community believe that the Earth was the centre of the universe? In retro- spect it seems silly, however back then man saw himself in everything and thus considered himself to be of utmost importance so it made sense that the entire cosmos should centre And we make the around him. Thus, we can see that world over in our man holds his body in great impor- image. tance. Scientific studies by distinguished scientists from reputed universities have shown that people have strong affinity for their names and many of

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 7 their major life decisions are influenced by their Major Life Decisions’, in which they concluded names. that these observations should not surprise as Professor Brett Pelham and others at the since they ‘ merely consist of being attracted to State University of New York at Buffalo that which reminds us of the one person most analysed millions of American census and social of us love so most dearly.’ security records and discovered that there was a This feeling however does not stop with just statistically significant higher proportion of peo- the body. This narcissistic love affair of the self ple called Charles in St. Charles, Thomas in St. extends to groups as well. When we watch a Thomas, Helen in St. Helens, and so on. The sporting event we all cheer for the home team. research team found that this was not because They represent us; we love ourselves and see parents named their children after their place of ourselves everywhere; so we cheer our home birth, but that it was due to people migrating team which represents us to win. If someone to places featuring their own name. from our hometown were to compete in any Another study by Pelham and his associates, competition it is natural to root for them, in which they scrutinized 15,000 marriage because we see our town winning and in turn records from between 1823 and 1965, showed we see ourselves win. Thus, we can see that that people were more likely to marry partners man holds his home-town in great importance. with the same first letter of their family name This feeling can be extended even further. than expected. When we watch the Olympics do we root for Pelham and his team also found a relation- some nation we have never heard of before? ship between names and occupations. A survey No. We root for our nation. When our flag is of the online records of the American Dental hoisted and our national anthem is played, we Association and American Bar Association feel proud. We can also see that man holds his revealed that the names of dentists were more nation in great importance. likely to begin with ‘Den’ than Law’ and that the knew of this and in names of lawyers were more likely to begin one of his talks he has said, “Potpotãno deh sãro with ‘Law’ than ‘Den’. A survey of the hardware lãge, gãm sãru lãge, desh sãro lãge, e to daivni stores and roofing companies in America’s 20 mãyãnu bal chhe” (: 5-323). largest cities showed that the surnames of hard- Meaning: “Everyone feels that their own body, ware store owners was more likely to begin village and country is good. This is due to the with ‘H’, while those of roofing company own- power of God’s maya.” ers was more likely to begin with ‘R’. Thus, all these examples illustrate that This research supported a similar list collect- throughout life, man is, consciously or uncon- ed in the late 1990s by the New Scientist maga- sciously, preoccupied with thoughts of himself. zine from their readers. That list included music This is the major reason for all conflicts, so by teachers named Miss Beat and Miss Sharp; overcoming one’s self-centred approach to life, British Meteorological Office staff called Flood, peace and happiness can be experienced. Frost, Thundercliffe and Weatherall; a firm of ◆ lawyers called Lawless & Lynch, private detec- tives named Wyre & Tapping; and the head of a psychiatric hospital called Mr. McNutt. Professor Pelham and his colleagues pub- lished a paper entitled ‘Why Susie Sells Seashells by the Seashore: Implicit Egotism and

8 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT: RITESH GADHIA

Dilip: I’m not making fun of you. But I do think that making small improvements to the technology we have can be more useful than dreaming about huge quantum jumps. Jayesh: If everyone was as unhelpful as you, we’d never have invented the wheel or fire! Dilip: Well, for one, the wheel’s design was possibly more of nature’s indication than just man’s effort. And fire, obviously, is not an invention – we got it from lightening and volca- noes and learnt to control it. Inventions are often more of a learning from what already exists, than truly creating something new. Jayesh: So are you saying that all invention Dilip: Hey Jayesh! How come you’re just and innovation is a sham? sitting there doing nothing? Dilip: No, but I am saying that improve- Jayesh: That’s what it might look like to ment is more important than invention. you . . .but I’m thinking. Jayesh: Hah! I disagree. Where would the Dilip: That’s a change from the Jayesh I world be without innovation and invention. know. Since when did you . . . Look at the car you drive – GM would never Jayesh: OK, OK, cut the smart lines. I was have been able to make the Saturn series if they dreaming of a really great invention. I have an had just tried improvements on their Buicks and idea that could make cars run on water, save Cadillacs. billions of dollars and get me the Nobel prize. Dilip: And you would not be driving around Dilip: Sure, and probably win you free piz- in your Toyota Corolla E140 without their phi- zas for a lifetime too. Why not do something losophy of constant improvement. Do you know more productive than just dreaming . . . . If that Toyota has been improving the Corolla you’re good at inventing, try making something. since the 1960s and it’s the largest selling car in Jayesh: Look, to get ahead and to help civi- the world? lization progress, you have to have great inven- Jayesh: Of course I know – that’s why I tors like me who dream of really great leaps in bought it. But what’s this constant improve- science. Don’t make fun of me! ment?

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 9 Dilip: Toyota has been practicing ‘kaizen’ Jayesh: Hey, that reminds me of that spe- for decades now – that’s Japanese for continu- cial session we had at the yuvak shibir in the ous improvement. So without the small mandir last month – about Anthony Robbins’ improvements that add up to huge changes, the CANI – Constant And Never-Ending Improve- Corolla would not be here today. ment. The Swami who gave that talk spoke Jayesh: But without out-of-the-box think- about walking and running too. ing, we wouldn’t have the lightbulb and the Dilip: Yes of course, the Swami explained telephone either. And without someone to think that really well, saying that we could use these of a radical notion like a horseless carriage, you principles in our professional and personal lives wouldn’t have cars at all. So there! to constantly improve ourselves and lead happi- Dilip: That’s true, I have to accept. But if er lives. We have to select which steps to priori- you didn’t have kaizen, the Tata Nano would tize and deal with first, which ones to walk for still be a dream. . . they took everything that a and which ones to run with... and that depends modern car is made of, and re-engineered it to on each one of us. be cheaper and smaller while still remaining Jayesh: So we do a ‘kaizen plus big leaps’ strong and efficient. programme individually in satsang and in our Jayesh: So I guess it depends on each com- lives? Decide on running or walking for each pany – whether they want to concentrate more change that we want to make? on continuous improvement or on innovation Dilip: Correct. It’s like this, there are advan- and inventions. tages both in innovation and in kaizen. For a Dilip: True. And the same principle applies company like Toyota or Tata, they might prefer to individuals too. You can choose to constantly to use kaizen principles for their spare parts improve yourself – and at the same time change management, but they would still depend on yourself in many ways for the better with large innovation and open-ended creativity for new jumps, which you’d label as ‘great leaps.’ designs for the next generation of vehicles. Jayesh: What do you mean by great leaps Jayesh: And we can apply the same princi- in changing yourself? ples to our personal improvement in satsang? Dilip: Well, let’s say there’s this really heavy Dilip: Right, improvement in satsang is like guy who wants to reduce his weight. Should he a personal kaizen – a CANI for the soul, so to go on a crash diet or reduce his food portions speak. Certain things need huge leaps – like slowly, over a few months? quitting an addiction. And other things, like Jayesh: I don’t know. He should decide, controlling anger, need to be worked on slowly, depending on whichever is more comfortable everyday, bit by bit. for him. Jayesh: So I could still have huge improve- Dilip: Yeah, I think the same too. It depends ments and quantum jumps – like changing my on each individual, or even each company. diet for the better from today... though reducing There’s no single correct answer, so you have to my anger or other traits will take some more select the option that suits you best and which time. you will be able to follow for a longer time to Dilip: Now you’ve got it. Decide on the give you the best results. It’s like deciding when right combination for you, and keep going at it you’re in a hurry: should you walk or run? It – pray for the strength to keep pursuing the depends on how far you have to go, how soon changes, because change is never easy. you need to reach, and your own capacity to ◆ run!

10 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 BHAJAN HISTORY: TRANSLATION: SADHU AMRUTVIJAYDAS Nirvikalp Uttam Ati Nischay Tav Ghanshyam...

him. Sweetly rebuking Premanand Swami, Maharaj said, “Swami, why have you fallen behind?” Embarrassed by his lapse, Premanand Swami asked for Maharaj’s pardon. Maharaj pulled the reins, and said, “You should have control over music and music should not gain control over you.” Premanand Swami rejoined the proces- sion and everyone arrived at the Vadi. Later, Maharaj called Premanand Swami and told him, “Man’s nature will take him any- where. The art of music is great, but it is of use only when used for pleasing God. But when it is used as a form of mere worldly entertainment, it is of no lasting value. Such worldly music is a t the loving insistence of the devotees hindrance even to sadhus. Since you were of Surat, and in particular, Shri Arde- drawn by the sound of such music, as atone- Ashar Kotwal, Shriji Maharaj had ment you should observe the chandrayan fast.” accepted their invitation to visit Surat. Maharaj Premanand Swami accepted Maharaj’s com- arrived on Kartik vad 7 Samvat 1887 (7 Novem- mand and left. The next morning Premanand ber 1830). He stayed for nine days and during Swami approached Muktanand Swami and this time, Maharaj and the accompanying sad- asked him, “Please state all the major features hus and devotees stayed at Lalkrishna Vadi. of ekantik dharma, so that I never again lapse One day, Shriji Maharaj was returning from in observing Maharaj’s wish.” For two days, a visit to Ardeshar Kotwal’s bungalow. The pro- Muktanand Swami talked to Premanand Swami. cession of sadhus and devotees were walking On the third day, Premanand Swami composed towards the Vadi. On the way, Premanand a prayer in Hindi incorporating the salient Swami and other sadhus were singing bhajans. points he had learnt from Muktanand Swami. Suddenly Premanand Swami’s musically tuned On the fourth day, Premanand Swami sang the ears noted a melodious sound in the vicinity. He prayer before Shriji Maharaj. turned his ears to the music and his mind “Nirvikalp uttam ati nishchay tav Ghan- became focused on it. Gradually, without him shyam; realizing it, he slowed and fell behind the Mãhãtmyajnãnyukta bhakti tav, ekantik group. Shriji Maharaj’s sharp observation noted sukhdhãm...” that Premanand Swami had been left behind. As he sang each couplet, Premanand Swami So, he turned his mare, Manki, and rode up to prostrated to Maharaj. In this way, he sang all

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 11 12 couplets and prostrated each time. Maharaj May I never malign you or your devotees. listened with total concentration and blessed Please forever grant me the company of your him at the end. spiritually enlightened devotee (3). That evening, after the arti and dhun had O Maharaj! Please always grace me with been sung, Maharaj had Premanand Swami’s your darshan and the darshan of your devotees. new prayer sung. Then he instructed, “From Please always keep me with you; that is my today this new prayer should be sung daily after earnest request (4). the evening arti.” O Maharaj! You are merciful and compas- The words of this famous prayer composed sionate; you are the master and succour of your by Premanand Swami are as follows: devotees. Please grant me the seven requests above (5). Nirvikalp uttam ati, nischay tav Ghanshyãm; Listen, all devotees, to the codes of conduct Mãhãtmyajnãyukta bhakti tav, ekãntik sukhdhãm...1 Sahajanand Swami Maharaj has prescribed in Mohime tav bhaktapano, tãme koi prakãr; the and sincerely observe them Dosh na rahe koi jãtko, suniyo Dharmakumãr...2 (6). Tumhãro tav haribhaktako, dhroh kabu nahi hoy; In the Shikshapatri, eleven main codes of Ekãntik tav dãsko, dije samãgam moy...3 conduct are described. I will give you their Nãth nirantar darsh tav, tav dãsanko dãs; details, so listen with attention (7). Ehi mãgu kari vinay Hari, sadã rãkhiyo pãs...4 Never harm any living being, do not associ- He Krupãlo! He Bhaktapate! Bhaktavatsal! Suno bãt; ate with women not closely related to you; do Dayãsindho! Stavan kari, mãgu vastu sãt...5 not eat meat or drink intoxicating beverages Sahajãnand Mahãrãjke, sab satsangi sujãn; (8). Tãku hoy dradh vartano, Shikshãpatri pramãn...6 Do not associate with widows, do not com- So Patrime atibade, niyam ekãdash joy; mit suicide; do not steal, do not falsely blame Tãki vigati karat hu, suniyo sab chitt proy...7 anyone (9). Himsã na karni jantuki, partriya sangko tyãg; Do not insult any deities, do not eat food Mãns na khãvat madhyaku, pivat nahi badbhãg...8 prepared by inappropriate people, do not listen Vidhvãku sparshat nahi, karat na ãtmaghat; to discourses by those who are vimukh (10). Chori na karni kãhuki, kalank ka koiku shragãt...9 These codes of conduct should be observed Nindat nahi koy devku, bin khapto nahi khãt; by all devotees, sadhus and householders; wor- Vimukh jivake vadanse, kathã suni nahi jãt...10 ship Shri Sahajanand Swami, forsaking all other Ehi dharmake niyam me, barto sab Haridãs; wishes (11). Bhajo Shri Sahajãnandpad, chhodi aur sab ãs...11 Live by these eleven codes and please Shri Rhi ekãdash niyam me, karo Shri Haripad prit; Hari. Thus, says Premanand, you will, without a Premãnand kahe dhãmame, jão nishank jag jit...12 doubt, overcome worldly desires and attain Akshardham (12). Meaning ◆ O Maharaj! Please grant me the highest level of faith in your divine form; may I develop unparalleled devotion towards you, together with knowledge of your glory (1). O Maharaj! May I never perceive any faults in your devotees (2).

12 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 ON LIFE: BAPS YOUTHS, USA

Ready…set…aim! Perhaps you have played darts. The game is simple: throw the dart and hit the target. Of course, like most things in life, it is easier said than done. Although hitting any any higher if we can meet a mini- part of the dartboard will gain points, mum requirement for achieving these those with a thirst for winning aims?. always aim for the centre. We know there are real rewards for In life, we follow a similar behav- being at ‘the top’. As stated by bestselling ioural pattern. We aim our darts hoping for author and marketing expert, Seth Godin, in his success in our education, career, or family life. book The Dip, our culture celebrates superstars. Unconsciously, we set goals daily, even if they Winners win big, regardless of whether it’s are as small as getting to a meeting on time. We resumes, college applications, best-selling are constantly setting aims and following up records, and anything in between. People sim- with methods of execution. We are all well- ply don’t have a lot of time or opportunity in versed in why we should set aims. What we today’s society to experiment so we intentional- haven’t yet figured out is how we should aim. ly limit our choices to those items that are the Michelangelo, the famous Italian sculptor, best. states the answer most eloquently: “The greater In a world that is driven by success, being danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim mediocre is not an option. too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” Why ‘World’s Best’? If our aim in life is to simply breathe in and The concept of ‘World’s Best’ can be difficult out then we’ve done a great job. Simply wanti- to grasp. After all, there are a lot of people in ng to breathe is like aiming the dart toward the this world. How can I be better than 6.7 billion outer rim of the dartboard. It requires less con- people? And isn’t it egotistical to want to be centration and the chances of success are much the best? Don’t we hear in our Sunday assem- greater. But, aiming for what is easiest, quick- blies that we must be humble in life? est, and least problematic is not always wisest. Godin defines ‘Best’ as: best for a particular In our rapidly developing society, we are sur- person (you) at a particular time (right now) , rounded with many tools to make achieving our based on what the individual believes and aims more convenient. So why should we aim knows. And ‘World’ is defined as: the individ-

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 13 ual’s world, the world she has access to. So this World Records. To many, a tiffin delivery service does not mean being better than 6.7 billion peo- can appear basic and fundamental. However, ple at any given point in time, but rather to be NMTBSA has defined their level of success and the best in the smaller microcosm within which in turn have established what they deem as we are striving to be ‘World’s Best’. mediocre and excellent. Pujya Doctor Swami is a proponent of aim- ing to be the World’s Best and drives this point Swamishri: An Ideal Example home by taking it to the deeper level of our per- To find out how aiming high can lead to sonal satsang and spirituality. He says that it excellence, we merely have to look to our starts with perfecting our daily lives, whether beloved Swamishri, whose very life symbolizes we are taking a shower, brushing our teeth, perfection. Swamishri sets high goals for our wearing shoes, or eating meals. Each activity in Satsang and for each of us individually. Twenty our daily lives should be carried out with per- years ago, no one would have dreamed that fect technique and discipline. Only then can be Akshardham would stand so majestically on the we become the world’s best. Aiming high banks of the Yamuna River, or that there would begins bottom-up. And when you think about it be six shikharbaddh mandirs outside India. Yet like that, it doesn’t seem so impossible. Because Swamishri’s far-reaching vision inspired all of us aiming high in the modest details of our life, to dream big and act big. He truly is the ideal which when perfected and then summed up, role model for us. helps us achieve our final goal of becoming ‘World’s Best’. Conclusion So, how should one aim? Aiming for success Success is Relative differs from person to person. We are different So who’s to say what is mediocre and what from one another in ideas and interests; conse- is excellent? quently, it is natural that our definitions of suc- The answer: each individual. One person’s cess will also vary. Winning an Olympic medal definition of success does not necessarily have or climbing Mt. Everest is not everyone’s dream. to be another’s. For example, a dabbawalla is a Aiming for success comes down to setting high person who carries and delivers freshly made personal goals, then doing your best to achieve food. It is actually a specialized trade that is a them and realizing that your best is always century old in Mumbai, India. good enough. Having role models and learning In 1968, The Nutan Mumbai Tiffin Box Sup- from those around you is vital. But relying com- pliers Association was formally established. The pletely on someone else’s standards to define task for the NMTBSA is simple: pick up and what ‘your best’ is will never bring satisfaction. deliver freshly made food. However, the NMTB- And once we begin applying this mind-set in all SA have refused to aim for mediocrity. They aspects of our life – school, career, family, sat- complete over 400,000 transactions every day. sang – then we just might be able to calibrate Even during the harsh summer monsoons, the our dart to aim for the centre of the dartboard. service is maintained uninterrupted. Their effi- ◆ ciency and success has won them numerous awards and acclaim. Top business schools and corporations use the NMTBSA in their case studies to train their students and employees. They have even been mentioned in the Guinness

14 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 DISCOURSES: TRANSLATION: SADHU AMRUTVIJAYDAS Igniting the Light Within 9 November, 2007, Gondal

Every year on Diwali Day (Aso vad 30), hastriji Maharaj acquired this place and built a mandir based upon our the last day of the Hindu year, it is S(Akshar-Purushottam) philosophy, thus customary to perform pujan of one’s proclaiming the glory of Gunatitanand Swami. In this Akshar Mandir, the Akshar Deri is espe- accounts books. This is called cially sacred. Yogiji Maharaj stayed here for Chopda Pujan and is an occasion to many years. He frequently toured throughout sanctify the New Year’s account books. Gujarat, but spent most of his time here – just like Maharaj toured and would return to Gad- Prayers are offered by devotees hada. for success in their personal and Yogiji Maharaj had great affinity and affec- tion for Akshar Deri. He blessed that the wishes professional lives. of all who pray here would be fulfilled and they In 2007 (V.S. 2063) Swamishri was in would benefit. He used to perform the (annual) Chopda Pujan here. Gondal to perform the auspicious Chopda We make many mistakes in our lives. If we Pujan. Thereafter, he blessed the assembly close the books we keep on other people’s of devotees seated in the open courtyard of faults, then our own inner darkness will disap- pear. If everyone lights a lamp in their heart, Akshar Mandir, Gondal. then darkness goes and there is bright light.

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 15 Shriji Maharaj, Gunatitanand Swami, true understanding that one’s true form is manifested on not this body but the atma. earth and their luminosity is We come to the mandir, and if there is such that it continually a lapse in the arrangements one feels hurt gives us light and with it and become critical. But why have you left eternal joy. your homes and cars and come here? For We are plagued by the samagam (association of the Satpu- darkness acquired through rush) and for the darshan of countless births. But Bhag- God. We do not come here for wan Shriji Maharaj, out of worldly pleasures. So, one great compassion for all, should be delighted by the brought his abode, darshan and discourses and Aksharbrahman Gunati- remain elated. tanand Swami, with him, Yogiji Maharaj used to and Shastriji Maharaj say that even if one gets explained the glory of only a small bowl of dal to Akshar-Purushottam thus eat, one should remain enlightening us with the true knowledge. It is happy. But if one is body-centred one will feel because of Shastriji Maharaj and Yogiji Maharaj that the arrangements are not proper. that we have understood this knowledge. So, So, with true knowledge one becomes bliss- now this will be our last birth. ful. True knowledge is that of Akshar-Purushot- There is so much other worldly knowledge. tam. Other knowledge is merely for worldly People study, attain degrees, become scientists, gains. Fulfil all your duties, but if one lives for go to the moon and so on. All this is necessary, this knowledge then one can serve (God) with but when true knowledge is attained there will body, mind and soul. be light within the heart. Parvatbhai did not get any food for seven So, we should understand this glory and days when he stayed with Shriji Maharaj in realize our debt to God. We brought nothing Gadhada. He didn’t complain and said to with us into this world and will take away noth- Maharaj, “Your darshan and company is ing when we depart. Whatever is attained in enough. Everything is included in that.” Such this world has been placed there by God. People understanding gives peace and happiness. have learnt to extract things from the earth and Yogiji Maharaj stressed that one should not sea, but God put everything there first. perceive faults in others. We have come to We use our resources for the family, society remove our own faults and habits. If this is real- and country, but using them for God is of last- ized, then one will not see the faults of others. ing benefit. Even using a little brings great See the good in all. One or two faults do not rewards. By folding one’s hands and bowing to make the person bad. Listen to and narrate God, our work gets done, since God is so merci- talks of God’s glory. Practicing satsang in this ful. Strengthen this understanding to overcome way will bring peace within and we will attain one’s ego. God’s abode. So, on this auspicious day of Using one’s wealth and property for good Diwali, we pray to God that he blesses everyone causes will bring peace. But as long as one har- for good health, sound mind, financial security bours the feelings of ‘me and mine’, there will and peace in all respects. ◆ be pain, misery and conflict. So, develop the

16 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 BAPSBAPS NEWS NEWS

EUROPE KARYAKAR MILAN 2008 “Karishye Vachanam Tava...” 19 to 22 September 2008, Engelberg, Switzerland the karyakars to meet, exchange ideas and share best practices to help strengthen Satsang throughout Europe. Sadhus, trustees and karyakars joined them from the UK, some of whom have been travelling for Satsang Pravrut- ti within Europe since 1982. The event included various motivational speeches, question-and-answer sessions, inter- active workshops, group discussions, and video total of 65 karyakars from Austria, and multimedia presentations. Everyone had Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Por- the opportunity to meet each other and under- Atugal, Spain, the Republic of Ireland stand the challenges that are faced in the dif- and the United Kingdom gathered in the small, ferent countries. picturesque town of Engelberg, Switzerland for Everyone departed to their respective coun- the first European Karyakar event between 19 tries thoroughly motivated and spiritually and 22 September 2008. charged. ◆ The Karyakar Milan was an opportunity for FAMILY ACTIVITY CENTRE OPENS AT THE BAPS SHRI SWAMINARAYAN MANDIR 7 September 2008, Lilburn, GA

n 7 September ing the thread at the main 2008, Family entrance gate. OActivity Centre In the inauguration (FAC) of the BAPS Shri assembly, an enlivening Swaminarayan Mandir in traditional folk dance was Lilburn, GA, was inaugu- performed by the youths rated. of BAPS and discourses The inauguration were given by sadhus. mahapuja ceremony was The FAC is clad with performed in the presence of sadhus, with the Indian pink sandstone and houses a 24,000 chanting of Vedic shloks. square foot assembly hall. It will hold weekly John Oxendine, the Commissioner of Insur- assemblies and will be the primary venue for ance for the State of Georgia, and Pujya Yag- cultural programmes and youth activities. ◆ navallabh Swami inaugurated the FAC by unty-

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 17 OPEN HOUSE LONDON BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden 20-21 September 2008

Visitors view the ‘Understanding Hinduism’ Visitors welcomed in the mandir haveli exhibition undreds of visitors came to The Wonderful. Very peaceful and beautiful. Taking BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in part in prayers was unbelievable. Did not wish to HNeasden, London – one of 700 beau- leave your lovely building. tiful buildings ‘on show’ across the historic city - Christine Ensom of London, as it featured again as a part of Open House London. This year the annual event The Mandir is a wonderful place. The experi- took place during the weekend of 21 and 22 ence is marvellous. It has been the best organised September 2008. Open House event I have attended. I will recom- The Mandir, recently acclaimed by Time Out mend it. city guides as “one of London’s Seven Wonders”, - Michael Reeves is a traditional favourite among architecture Advertising Executive) buffs who egerly attend this regular showcase. Individuals were free to absorb the atmos- Welcoming and informative. The atmosphere phere as they wished and many chose to take of silence was moving and a deep experience to the personal audio-guided tours. For larger see so many in sincere and perfect prayer. Thank groups, volunteers were on hand for special you for great hospitality. guided tours of the grand Haveli Prayer Hall - Sister Alexine CSJP (Retired Teacher, and the ‘Understanding Hinduism’ exhibition. Sisters of St Joseph of Peace) Many even attended the midday arti ceremony. Almost 1,400 visitors chose to explore and I found my visit to be peaceful and spiritual – enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Mandir a reminder why we are here on Earth and how over the sunny weekend. far modern life has taken us away from our rea- Below is a selection of some visitors’ opin- son of existence, whatever one’s religion. ions: - Arjen Westerdijk Beautiful carvings – but my biggest impression ◆ is that Hinduism is a religion of peace in a way I had never realised before. - Claire (Working in Media Industry)

18 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 NATIONAL VIDYARTHI SHIBIR “Brahmavidyani College” 26-28 September 2008, London

he first ever cussions, question-answer National Kishore- sessions, workshops, inter- TKishori Vidyarthi active sessions and cooking. Shibir for university stu- A special session in the dents, ‘Brahmavidyani Col- presence of parents, also lege’, was held at London gave them a valuable Mandir, from 26 to 28 insight into university life. September 2008. The shibir proved a It enlightened the stu- great success as partici- dents about the challenges and practical skills pants departed with renewed confidence, required in university life. Guidance from grad- enhanced abilities, and increased motivation to uates and the sadhus motivated them to excel attain greater heights in their education as well as studies and satsang. their personal satsang. The shibir comprised inspirational videos, dis- ALL-INDIA KARYAKAR ADHIVESHAN 11-12 October 2008, Bochasan & Ahmedabad his year, 2008, Regional (Kshetriya) has been Adhiveshans held in 191 Tdeemed as the regions throughout Gujarat BAPS ‘Year of the and Mumbai. Karyakars who Karyakar’. Continuing the performed well in this phase many events to commem- qualified to participate in orate this year, separate the second phase. adhiveshans for men and In the second phase, women karyakars were held on 5 October 2008 at held. During the weekend of 11 and 12 October 28 locations, 2,620 men and 2,427 women 2008 the BAPS mandirs in Bochasan and karyakars competed in the Inter-Regional Ahmedabad buzzed with excitement and antici- (Antar-Kshetriya) Adhiveshan. The winning pation as 277 men karyakars gathered in karyakars from here were invited to compete in Bochasan, and 284 women karyakars gathered the All-India Karyakar Adhiveshan. in Ahmedabad to participate in the All-India The adhiveshan competitions comprised Karyakar Adhiveshan. There were representa- Prathmik Mukhpath, Jnanvardhak Pprashnottari tives from 131 regions. (a 90-mark question paper on a booklet of select- The karyakars had earned the right to com- ed articles), Speech and Nirupan. The karyakars pete in this final adhiveshan by winning through were assessed by experienced sadhus and senior the previous two phases. men and women karyakars at each phase. In the first phase on 28 September 2008 over The efforts of all the karyakars in each phase 8,225 (men and women) participated in the were highly commendable. ◆

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 19 GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS BOOK FEATURES BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi as World’s Largest Hindu Temple 17 September 2008

he internationally acclaimed BAPS long, 96.3m (316 ft) wide and 42.9m (141 ft) Swaminarayan Akshardham in New tall. TDelhi has been featured in the 2009 edi- The world record was presented to His Holi- tion of the Guinness World Records book as the ness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the creator of largest Hindu temple in the world. It appears in Akshardham and spiritual leader of BAPS the ‘Central and Southern Asia’ section with a Swaminarayan Sanstha, on 17 December 2007, large double-page colour photo of the by Michael Whitty, official world record adjudi- grand, ornately hand-carved stone temple. In cator and member of the management commit- addition to a brief visitor’s guide of the complete tee of Guinness World Records. 100-acre complex, the accompanying text reads: Since its opening in November 2005, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham has attracted over LARGEST HINDU TEMPLE 12 million visitors from over 113 countries. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New The Guinness World Records book is the Delhi, India, has a total area of 8,021m2 (86,342 biggest selling copyright book in history, with ft2). The temple was built within five years by more than 100 million copies sold in 100 coun- 11,000 artisans. It measures 108.5m (356 ft) tries around the world in 24 languages. ◆

20 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 http://herbal.baps.org.

Age old Ayurveda at its purest best

Ayurvedic & Herbal Products

The New Website for BAPS Swaminarayan Herbal Care was launched on 21 September 2008 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad. This well-designed website provides useful informa- tion on the science of Ayurveda and details of the many Ayurvedic medicines and Herbal Bodycare products available under the brand name of ‘BAPS Amrut’. Guid- ance is also available on which preparations to use for particular ailments. Orders can be placed online, with delivery possible to anywhere in India. View the site on http://herbal.baps.org.

Calendars for 2009

Colourful wall and desktop calendars for 2009 for homes and offices are now available from BAPS Bookstalls. Themes are: Shastriji Maharaj, Pramukh Swami Maharaj (water colour paint- ings) and Delhi Akshardham. These excellent calendars can be preserved even afterwards by fram- ing the murtis.

November 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 21 PRAMUKH SWAMI MAHARAJ’S

6 December 2008, Mumbai IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS AND INFORMATION

7. Devotees should not carry unnecessary valuables or cash with them. 8. Devotees arriving by private vehicles from Gujarat should take the Western Express Highway into Mumbai and then take the following route: Virar-Bhayen- der-Dahisar-Malad-Andheri-festival ground (MMRDA at BKC). 9. On 6 December 2008, Swamishri’s Important Announcements and Information morning puja and the evening Janma- 1. The celebration assembly is from 5:00 to Jayanti Celebration will be telecast live 8:00 p.m. on 6 December 2008. on Aastha TV channel. 2. There are no facilities for lodging or 10. For the safety of young children, give boarding, so all are requested to arrive them an ID card in their pocket with only in the afternoon for the festival. your contact details. If you are separated 3. On the festival day only, lunch will be from them, immediately inform the provided at the festival ground to all nearest security post. devotees till 1:00 p.m. 11. Those on regular medications should 4. Devotees who will be arranging private bring the required medicines with them. buses from their centres should, through 12. Keep the contact numbers of your Mum- their Sant Nirdeshak or Nirdeshak, bai relatives/friends handy. inform the organizers in Mumbai on the 13. Do not touch any unknown object or following phone number by 1 December those lying unclaimed on the roadside, 2008. Ph: 9004059221/23 even if they are very attractive. No lodging-boarding facilities can be provided even for those travelling by FESTIVAL DETAILS bus. Festival Day: 6 December 2008, Saturday 5. No buses are allowed into the Dadar Festival Time: 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. area by the Municipal Authorities. So Festival Place: MMRDA Grounds devotees coming by special buses will Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) not be able to come to Dadar Mandir. Mumbai 6. The festival ground is just 10 minutes ◆ from Bandra train station, so devotees travelling by train from Gujarat should choose trains that stop at Bandra.

22 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ November 2008 Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Gondal Swaminarayan Bliss, November 2008. Posted at Ahmedabad, P.S.O. 5th on every month. Licenced to post without prepayment No. 155, Regd No. GAMC-703. Valid upto 31-12-2008, RNI 33411/79

Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi: World’s Largest Hindu Mandir Over 12 million visitors from 113 countries since inauguration in November 2005 Michael Whitty of Guinness World Records presents certificate to Swamishri

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