Akhand Jyoti Magzine March April 2021

VOLUME: 19

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ISSUE: 2

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MARCH-APRIL 2021

Amrit Chintan

Chiseled Refinement of Life

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t is the law of Nature that stress, and struggle of particles generate force and motion. Friction and violent movement, though they appear harsh, but are necessary for a sharpened gaze. The yellow metal gets its bright golden glow only after being heated and hammered. An ordinary piece of stone or metal becomes a magnificent sculpture or precious idol only after hard-hitting and shrill cutting.

The same is true of human life. Life's glory sparkles only after passing through testing times, bearing the strict disciplines, pains, and difficulties on the path of ideals. Those who can rise and march against obstructions and opposition alone can reach high goals. You can hardly find any meaningful life or outstanding success achieved by anyone without unflinching efforts and examinations.

Devout endeavors of penance and adoption of ascetic disciplines for self-purification and selftransformation are described as Tapasya (tapa). Chiseled refinement of life is the essence of tapa. This awakens hidden powers and sublime potentials. Vedic history is full of the stories of great tapaswis who have been able to conquer the heavens by their Tapasya's spiritual force.

The best devotion to God of life is tapa. It is the only means of glorious accomplishments.

- Pujya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking.

- Albert Einstein AKHAND JYOTI

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CONTENTS 1.

Amrit Chintan Chiseled Refinement of Life ..................................................................................................

2.

From Chief Editor’s Desk

3.

The Purpose of Holy Pilgrimage ..........................................................................................

Kumbh Mela – A Treasure of Our Ancient Culture ...............................................................

4.

5.

Use Your Smartphone Smartly .............................................................................................

5 7 10

Science and Spirituality Power of the Cosmic Element of Sound Awakened by Gayatri Mantra ................................

6.

3

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Health and Wellness Can Lifestyle Diseases be Prevented? ...................................................................................

15

7.

The Festival of Colors to Cleanse and Rejuvenate the Mind ................................................

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8.

The Charter of Global Peace..................................................................................................

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9.

Youth Column Augment Three Assets to Lead a Fulfilling Life....................................................................

24

10.

Introspection is Essential for Self-Improvement ...................................................................

11.

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Balance of Prana is Essential .................................................................................................

The Road to Holistic Progress in Life ...................................................................................

26 28 30

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Odyssey of the Enlightened - 78 Noble Guru is a Reflection of God - 1 ...................................................................................

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Let Us Focus on Water Conservation. ...................................................................................

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15.

Yug Gita - 29 To Establish Dharma, I Manifest Myself Age after Age – II .................................................

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16.

Realize the Value of Time and Utilize it Wisely ...................................................................

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17.

Amrit Vani

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19.

Worship the Deity of the Power of Your Physical Body .......................................................

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Difficulties are the Golden Opportunities for Self-Refinement ...........................................

Shantikunj News ..................................................................... (Inner and back cover pages)

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The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.

- John Adams AKHAND JYOTI

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From Chief Editor’s Desk

The Purpose of Holy Pilgrimage

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ndian culture has laid great emphasis on Teertha Yatra (Holy Pilgrimage).

Over time, special worship rituals were added to such yatras. There are many pilgrimage centers like Char Dham, Jyotirlingas, Shaktipeethas, Temples, Ashramas, etc., in India, which are visited by the resident as well as non-resident Indians every year. On average, every Indian spends at least a week per year for this purpose; teerthas may be near their towns or may be located at far-off places. Of course, the aim of these yatras may be different for different persons. Some people tour these places for sheer entertainment, while some others go to seek the blessings of deities to fulfill their desires. Some visitors may have a special attachment to specific teerthas, and others may go for the atonement of their sins. Some people visit just out of curiosity, while some take up such pilgrimages due to blind faith, and still, some others go with full devotion. However, thoughtful people know that they cannot get a magic box by merely watching a deity or visiting a shrine. Unless someone takes up self-refinement and some task of social welfare, how can one get its benefits?

It is not that our seers/sages were not aware that the fruits of action could be obtained only after self-refinement and undertaking public welfare. Then what made them emphasize the need to undertake holy pilgrimages and encourage such arduous and challenging travel to far-off teerthas. Perhaps one reason was that these teerthas were situated in scenic places. Such sites provided inner peace to the visitors. Apart from the natural beauty, the specialty of teerthas was that their ambiance was sacred. People visiting such holy places would get influenced so much that they would resolve to follow the path of self-refinement and spiritual upliftment. The visitors would automatically get the enthusiastic support and energy required to follow yoga, tapa, self-control, sadhana, etc.

Apart from that, the task of inspiring the sadhakas was done by such seers, saints, sages, and spiritual masters who had themselves attained outstanding accomplishments in this field. The residences of such great men were called Ashramas or Aranyakas. People visiting these Ashramas were not like modern visitors who would stay there for an hour and run away to catch the flight back home, but they would remain in the divine ambiance for some time to perform sadhanas, refine themselves and imbibe some virtuous traits. That is why the span of years needed to earn the power of sadhana in the materialistic world would get reduced to a few days.

In those days, Gurukulas (kind of residential schools) also used to be located in these teerthas. It is obvious that students studying in such schools were rich in personality; the fragrance of divine faith, control of senses, discipline, and virtues would automatically emanate from them. After completing their education, they would present examples that

Life is a pilgrimage. The wise man does not rest by the roadside inns. He marches direct to the illimitable domain of eternal bliss, his ultimate destination. - Swami Sivananda AKHAND JYOTI

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could be emulated when they returned to society. In addition to the young students, elders also lived in the tradition of sannyasis and vanprasthis in these teerthas.

Teerthas, established with such noble sentiments, performed a significant task of transmitting vital energy to society. Children, youths, householders, women, older people – all of them used to get the opportunity of uplifting their lives in such Ashramas.

This is why the authors of ancient scriptures, and wise scholars, inspired the masses to consider the holy pilgrimage of such centers of learning as their duty. The purpose behind it was not tourism; instead, it was to get the benefits of such powerful spiritual centers, which was not possible elsewhere.

Therefore, our citizens in ancient times had the fortune of being considered god-like, and the Indian soil was counted as an abode of God. Unfortunately, this purpose has been lost somewhere.

Neither such noble personalities are seen in teerthas nor those enthusiastic pilgrims who have the sincere ambition to refine themselves by performing sadhanas in such holy places. The result is in front of our own eyes – pilgrimage has become merely a ritual; a skeleton remains, but the soul has been lost.

It is worth mentioning here that the aim of establishing Gayatri Teertha, Shantikunj by Param Pujya Gurudev was to develop such a pilgrimage center that would invoke the same sentiments in the sadhakas as described above. For this purpose, he selected a place that was located under the pristine shadows of the Himalayas and the holy vicinity of the Ganga and was energized by the power of tapa of Saptarishis (seven seers of yore). This was done to revive in present times the noble traditions established by the seven rishis.

Accordingly, Shantikunj has been developed as a modern symbol of the Vedic Age. It has revived the tradition of Rishi Parshuram to eradicate the evil tendencies present in society. As Bhagirath made the Ganga descend from Heaven on earth; in the same way,

Shantikunj has made the Ganga (of Vedic Knowledge) available to the masses. The tradition of Ayurveda of Maharshi Charak, that of Yagya of Maharshi Yagyavalkya, the cult of folk music of Devarshi Narad, the practice of Yoga of Maharshi Patanjali, and the propagation of scientific spirituality proposed by Maharshi Kanad – all of them have been integrated into the daily routine of Shantikunj. Thus, a spiritually purified and vibrant ambiance of Yugteertha – Shantikunj truly serves the purpose of holy pilgrimage.

Apart from this, Shantikunj has emerged over the years as a unique institution and fountainhead of the global movement of Yug Nirman Yojana – a campaign aimed at the transformation of the era to usher in a bright and blissful future by thoughtenlightenment, social reformation, cultural development, moral regeneration, and spiritual elevation in the light of ancient Indian heritage and scientific spirituality. Therefore, every aspirant of soul upliftment must visit this temple of enlightenment and get rejuvenated.

With prayer-filled wishes for a happy, healthy, and harmonious New Samvatsar 2078,

(Pranav Pandya)

A pilgrim is wanderer with a purpose. – Peace Pilgrim AKHAND JYOTI

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The Kumbha Mela A Treasure of Our Ancient Culture

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he Kumbha is considered a great festival in Indian culture. It is said that a person attains immortality if he observes certain austerities like Sn³na (sacred bath), D³na (charity), Jó³na-manthana (churning of knowledge), etc., on the banks of the Ganga during this festival. There is a story of the Kumbha in Puranas.

Rishi Kashyapa was married to two daughters, namely, Diti and Aditi, of Prajapati. Aditi gave birth to Devatas (gods), and Diti produced Daityas (demons). Once Devatas and Daityas together accomplished the churning of the ocean to acquire the gems hidden inside its waters. In the process, they got 14 gems; one of them was Amrit Kalash (a pot of nectar). Both the parties were eager to drink nectar so that they could become immortal.

A war ensued between the two sides to get the pot of nectar. Noting that the things were getting out of control, the king of Devatas, Indra, signaled to his son, Jayant, to run away with the pot.

As he did so, Daityas followed him.

Jupiter, Sun, and Moon helped Jayant keep the pot safe; Jupiter saved it from going into the hands of Daityas, Sun

from getting it broken, and Moon from spilling the nectar from the pot. Despite this, in the struggle, four drops of nectar were spilled. They dropped at Haridwar, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nasik. The Kumbha Mela is organized every 12 years in these four cities.

Lakhs of people participate in the Kumbha with a wish to get Amrit (nectar). Puranas have highlighted its importance very much. It is written in Agni Purana that one who takes a bath in the Ganga every day during this festival earns the Punya of donation of crores of cows. Performing Sn³na, D³na, Jó³na-manthana, etc., during the Kumbha is considered very auspicious and beneficial.

The question to be pondered is - ‘What is this Amrit that is sought after in the Kumbha?’

A great tradition of Rishis Faith in God and spirituality is a great virtue. It molds a person into a righteous citizen and develops such noble traits that justify that he is a crown prince of God. Human faith is the mother of divine culture. It is an auspicious wealth giving rise to divinity in humans and the descent of heaven on earth. Forebears of divine culture were rishis/munis/ ascetics who dedicated their whole lives to social welfare.

Only such saints/seers have been nourishing human faith from times immemorial. The establishment of temples, Ashramas, Aranyakas, observing fasts, celebrating different festivals, organizing satsangs, religious fairs, etc., are the means of refining and nourishing human faith in the divine.

Puñya and P³pa – What we call religious rituals are the

The geographical pilgrimage is the symbolic acting out an inner journey. The inner journey is the interpolation of the meanings and signs of the outer pilgrimage. One can have one without the other. It is best to have both. – Thomas Merton

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means of imbibing good impressions, good thoughts, virtues, and refined emotions in our lives. Our seers, saints, and scholars of yore propagated a psychological way of uplifting individuals and society. These rituals were called ‘Puñya karma’ (holy deeds) so that men-women, children, elders, and all the strata of society maintain faith in the divine. The karma (actions) that harmed individual or social progress were labeled ‘P³pa karma’ (sinful acts), and it was advised to stay away from them.

Gaupalan (tending cows), Tulasi sthapana (planting Tulasi in homes), Ganga Snana (bathing in the Ganga), Teerthayatra (holy pilgrimage), Ekadashi vrata (observing fast on the eleventh day of the lunar month), Brahmacharya (celibacy), etc. are Puñya religious karmas. Why are they considered so?

The cow has been the basis of the progress of rural India. Its milk is deemed suitable for health; excellent organic manure is made from cow-dung, and its calves serve to plough the agricultural fields. Tulasi is an efficacious medicine for many ailments [see the article: ‘The Miraculous Healing Power of Tulasi’ in Vol. 18, issue 4, pp 22-24, July-August (2020) of this magazine]. Pure Gangajal has many minerals and chemicals in a natural form that help in improving health.

Teerthayatra, in ancient times, served the purpose of tourism combined with the virtuous company of saints and seers and the change of atmosphere. Ekadashi vrat, after a fortnight, keeps the digestive system healthy. Brahmacharya preserves vital energy and keeps the body sound and mind alert.

Considering these positive aspects of the above traditions, they were embedded in the social system.

Let us talk about Mahakumbha – ‘Kumbha -Snana’ is one of these auspicious traditions. Our ancient scriptures have presented several facts rhetorically so that the masses could grasp them easily. Let us try to understand the Puranic story of Kumbha as follows:

Samudra Manthan: God has made all human beings similar, but selfless and selfish people always existed in society.

Selfless people possess noble qualities and are always ready to help others, and hence they are called Devatas (God-like). Selfish people forgetting human dignity, try to snatch others’ wealth, and harm others for their benefit; therefore, they are figuratively labeled Daityas (demons).

In fact, Samudra manthan is churning of thoughts on useful topics; it helps in valuable discoveries. All types of people, good or bad, want to take advantage of it. For example, the discovery of atomic energy is a boon for the prosperity of humanity. Nobleminded people would use it to fulfill society’s energy needs, while devilish people may use it to destroy this world.

That is why like the Amrit of Kumbha, it has to be protected from falling into the hands of such people (Daityas).

Amrit of Kumbha is Sadgyan (Eternal Knowledge) - It is common to depict Devi-Devatas (gods and goddesses) with beautiful, majestic, and smiling looks and Daityas (demons) with terrible faces (horns on their heads and big teeth coming out of the mouths).

But both of them had a similar configuration of a human being. Both were very powerful, tapasvi, and rich in

The soul passes from form to form; and the mansions of her pilgrimage are manifold. - Georg Hermes AKHAND JYOTI

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divine powers. The only difference was that Devatas utilized their superpowers for humankind’s benefit while Daityas terrorized the masses and unlawfully grabbed their assets.

evils, solving people’s problems, individual progress, and social upliftment rested on these great souls. Apart from regional saints, reformers, and religious leaders, common men/women also reached these Melas to get the benefit of Amrit of true knowledge.

It is mentioned in the Puranic story of Kumbha that four drops of Amrit spilled at Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain, and Nasik, and hence Kumbha Mela is organized in these places.

In fact, supreme ascetics, rishis, and religious leaders of our eternal culture made a routine of gathering in these places every twelve years and nourish the faith of the masses. This tradition is continuing even now. The responsibility of eradicating the social

The prevailing notion of Amrit in the masses is that it gives immortality to the person who drinks it. However, no one has found such an Amrit so far. In reality, eternal knowledge is that nectar imbibing which the great men like Buddha, Mahavir, Nanak, Christ, Prophet, Gandhi, Vinoba, etc., became immortal in history.

Eternal knowledge is real Amrit; upon acquiring it, a person realizes the value of life. With this knowledge, it becomes possible to awaken enormous powers hidden within a human being. With its realization, a person enjoys heaven’s bliss even while living a simple life.

Divine saint Narad and saint Angira were walking along. On their way, they saw one sweet shop where a heap of used paper plates was lying in the corner of the shop. One nearby dog was repeatedly tempting to eat the food waste on those plates but was beaten by the shop owner in every attempt it made. The dog would scream and go back, and this was repeatedly done.

Seeing this saint Narad smiled. Saint Angira asked him the reason for this smile.

Naradji said – “Earlier, this shop was owned by one miser person. He earned a good fortune in his life but also afflicted troubles and pains to others. He is reborn in this period as a dog, and this shop owner is his son of previous birth for whom he hoarded all his wealth. In this birth, he cannot eat even defiled food from his hands, and this law of karma made me laugh.”

Man is bound to earn the gains of his good or bad actions irrespective of the long wait of even myriad of births.

Faith is not the clinging to a shrine but an endless pilgrimage of the heart. - Abraham Joshua Heschel AKHAND JYOTI

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Use Your Smartphone Smartly We are living in what can be called the ‘mobile era.’ Today, almost everyone is a mobile phone user, whether he is a laborer or a rickshaw puller, a child, or an older man.

Everyone, irrespective of age or profession, is in its grip. The entire present generation of children and youth has been born in its lap; no wonder if it is called the mobile generation. It is as if the whole essence of their lives is hidden in the mobile phone, and it has become impossible for them to imagine their lives without them.

With almost 70 crore users, India is the second-largest consumer of mobile phones. China is the largest with nearly double this number. The USA has 27.5 crore users and is in the third position. By the end of 2021, it is estimated that there will be about 76 crore users of mobile phones in India.

18.21% of India’s population used mobile phones in 2015; it became 25% by 2017. In rural India as well, its users are growing at a fast pace. In 2015 only 5 percent of the rural population had mobile phones, but this number rose to 25% in 2018. According to an estimate, the number of mobile phone users in India will increase to 82 crores in the next two years.

A research study on Indian youth has revealed that 80% of college students in our country use smartphones. They check their phones about 150 times a day, and 63% of them spend 4 to 7 hours on smartphones. About 14 percent of youth spend 3 hours or less, while 23% spend more than 8 hours on mobiles. Two hundred students of 20 central universities were included in the survey. No wonder this excessive usage of mobile phones is causing a number of physical and

mental disorders in them. Discomforts like headache, ear pain, hotness in the body, tiredness, and eye strain have become very common.

Using the phone while driving has become the leading cause of road accidents. Due to electromagnetic radiations from the phones, sleeprelated disorders are increasing as rapid eye movement or REM sleep is getting adversely affected. Sperm quality has also been seen to be lowered by mobiles. It has a strong effect on our nervous system and can lead to diseases like cancer.

Mental health, too, is getting affected due to addiction to smartphones, and hence the quality of life is getting impacted. Headache is the most common symptom of excessive usage, followed by irritability and anger.

Lack of concentration, lower academic performance, and anxiety are some other commonly observed problems.

Excess usage of mobiles brings a strong feeling of disconnect from the world and loneliness and reduces selfesteem. The anxiousness among youth

Technology should be your Servant, not your Master. - Ludovic Tendron AKHAND JYOTI

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to go ahead of others and the desire to acquire fame at any cost is a cause for grave concern. In this hurry, they make several mistakes. These are the main reasons for increasing instances of cybercrimes. While several youths are falling prey to hacking, trolling, phishing, cyberbullying, etc., many others are instigating these crimes.

Youth have many friends on social media but find themselves lonely in the crowd and fall into depression. Several among them even commit suicide due to depression. Cyberbullying is a severe cybercrime that is affecting the youth.

India is now at the third rank in the number of incidents of cyberbullying.

The number of suicides due to this is on the rise. Students are getting more violent. Due to the misuse of mobile phones, several criminal tendencies are on the rise among youth. As a result, many academic institutes are working on a partial or complete ban on using mobiles on the campuses. However, owing to the several benefits it offers, instead of a ban, a disciplined usage of mobile is the need of the hour.

This is important in students’ context because excess usage of mobile and internet leads to reduced concentration and lower retention in memory. Their overall awareness and attentiveness are reducing, and this reduced level

of cognition also leads to reduced willpower and lower self-belief. Despite knowing the harms caused by mobiles, students spend most of their time listening to music, playing games or chatting with friends, or social media on mobiles.

In sum, mobiles have become a big distraction for them during their study time. At the cost of doing essential tasks in real life, they loiter around in the virtual world. Stress, depression, and anxiety are becoming a part of their lives because they remain glued to mobiles all 24 hours a day.

In this imbalanced, unsteady state of mind, students cannot choose their goals correctly and make mistakes in their studies. With phones near them all the time, they cannot even sleep well. In such a situation, judicious use of mobiles has become a challenge.

A few tips below can be of some help. It is necessary to stop using the phone much before going to sleep. Remove unnecessary apps from the mobile. Keep the phone switched off or in flight mode at night so that unnecessary notifications would not popup and disturb sleep, and on waking up in the morning, the day can be started with a fresh mind. Phone addiction tracker apps may also be installed on the mobile to track how much time during the week is being spent on the phone. This can help control the excessive usage of the device.

Indeed, this is the time when youth need to be mindful and conscious. Parents and guardians of youth must ensure that their wards do not get entangled in mobiles’ deceptive trap and prevent them from entering into a dark abyss.

Mobile is like a twin-edged sword. If it is utilized well, it offers limitless possibilities for creativity. But if it is misused, it has all the means to wreck an individual’s life. So the only question is, how smart are we to face the deceptive challenges posed by smartphones? ◙

Our addiction to control ends up controlling us. - David Zahl AKHAND JYOTI

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Science and Spirituality

Power of the Cosmic Element of Sound Awakened by Gayatri Mantra

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n the previous article on energy-fields of thoughts and speech[1], we had highlighted the importance of mantras³dhan³. The scriptures and the experiences of great s³dhakas of all ages affirm that successful completion of devout spiritual experiments of mantra-s³dhan³ eventually leads to self-awakening, soul-realization, and ultimate beatitude.

A simplified example to understand how the adept japa of a mantra could be so powerful is that of a dynamo. As the continuous movement of the motor in a dynamo generates electricity, the cyclic repetition of the japa of a mantra at a constant pace for a substantial time also results in a circular motion of the power-currents of Ïabda1. Consequently, it generates a pr³ñic2 centrifugal force which activates the otherwise latent energy-centers of this sublime cosmic sound.

Experts (siddhas) of the super-science of the mantra know the secrets of optimal generation and use of this sublime energy which is a supernatural source of physical, mental, and spiritual potentials.

Interestingly, a gigantic manifestation of the energy of Ïabda also exists in the cosmos. For example, because of its fast circular movements in the charged fields of the forcesof-attraction of the other planets, every planet produces a roaring sound of intensity proportional to its vast size.

The superimposition of these planetary roars gives rise to a cosmic sound – a manifestation of Ïabda – which the scientists consider as the major source of power for the

natural movements across the universe.

Some siddhas/yogis of the mantra’s super-science have the expertise to realize and make use of this massive energy as well.

Magnificence of the Gayatri Mantra The Gayatri (G³yatrº) Mantra is regarded as the origin (mother) of all the Vedic Mantras and hence of the Vedas too. This is why it is also referred to as a mah³mantra, and its cosmic deity (viz., the primordial, omnipotent supreme divine power, Goddess “Gayatri”) is revered as Vedam³t³.

The sublime energy-field of this eternal mantra is supposed to be expanding continuously with the immense force of attraction, as the s³dhan³ of this mantra is being practiced by millions of yogis, s³dhakas, and devotees since the Vedic Age. Every human being can illuminate his/her intellect and the inner-self and attain preeminent righteous success by sincere s³dhan³ of this majestic mantra.

The power of Ïabda manifests itself in multiple ways in the s³dhan³ of the great Gayatri Mantra. This mantra is a unique synthesis of twenty-four

Just as honey is the essence of flower, butter of milk, in the same way Gayatri is the essence of all the Vedas. - Maharshi Veda Vyasa AKHAND JYOTI

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syllables/psychic sounds, which are so configured that the japa of each generates unique vibrations at one or more of the twenty-four important bio-electrical and extrasensory energy nuclei in the s³dhaka’s body. The collective effects of these generated by the japa of this mantra are so majestic and powerful that these gradually purify and activate the subtle body (which includes the energy-body and the mental body) and the causal body (includes the innermost core of the unconscious mind and the inner self) as well.

The linguistic meaning (in Sanskrit) of the scripted form of this mantra, in short, is — a universal prayer for divine-illumination of the intellect of all to inspire and guide the world towards the righteous path. The s³dhaka’s (sub) conscious as well as inner minds are focused around this meaning (and the associated feelings and inspirations) when (s)he performs japa of this mantra through emotional depth. This has two prominent effects – viz., the s³dhak’s (sub)conscious mind achieves a higher state of meditation, and (s)he also attains spiritual refinement of the deeper domains of the inner self.

The complete effect of japa of the G³yatrº Mantra done with true ïraddh³3 also purifies the causal body

of the s³dhaka. It awakens divinity, indwelling the innerself, and illuminates all facets of his/her life with a divine glow. Liberation from the assimilated mental inscriptions (in the unconscious mind) and uprooting of the evils of the misdeeds/sins of the past life or previous births are natural bequests of successful s³dhan³ of this mantra.

On worldly fronts, the s³dhaka lives a truly happy and progressive life and contributes significantly – without any ego, selfish interest, or worldly attachment – towards others’ multidimensional welfare.

Dhiya¡ element of the G³yatrº Mantra induces the cosmic vibrations of Ïabda; the sonic waves generated by the japa of this mantra traverse through the cosmic domains of compatible ideospheres[1]. Upon completion of each cycle, these waves reach back the s³dhaka together with the additional effects of — (i) divine thoughts and sentiments ‘transmitted’ through the perpetual vibrations generated by the long-term japa-s³dhan³4 of sagacious spiritual masters like the Vedic Rishis, who were siddhas of Gayatri-s³dhan³; and (ii) sublime radiance of the Supreme Consciousness of Savit³5. S³dhaka’s mind consistently receives the supernormal impulses and sparks of the divine force and, as a result, often attains extrasensory knowledge and supramental powers via dreams, intuitions, and sudden inspirations. The s³dhaka also experiences ‘hearing of mysterious sounds...’, ‘vision of the distant and otherwise unseen places and objects,’ ‘flashes of supernatural light,’ etc.

As stated in an earlier article[1], the mantras, by definition, are sublime carriers of the power of Ïabda indwelling in (audible as well as inaudible) sound, thoughts, emotions, all kinds of manifested and subtle energy-waves. The sonic, as well as the emotional energy together, make a mantra alive.

The observance of prescribed elementary disciplines – like, the regularity of timings and the number and pace of japa,

Persons who are dull, wayward, and fickle-minded become highly intelligent and steadfast and rise to great heights in worldly and spiritual pursuits by Gayatri Sadhana. – Maharshi Vashishtha

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etc. — is a must to generate appropriate sonic vibrations from the japa of a mantra. More importantly, unperturbed engrossment of mind with deep faith and emotional linkage with the devat³ of the mantra — is vital for awakening the subliminal force of Ïabda in it.

It may be noted again that for the success of the s³dhan³ of any mantra, the purity of thoughts, character, and deeds, strength and stability of mind, and ïraddh³ are the most crucial and essential virtues of the s³dhaka rather than his intellectual eminence or scholarly expertise in the Vedic texts, etc.

Anyone who sincerely adopts truthfulness, constructive hard work, and altruist service with compassion, generosity, and love and practices self-restraint over sensory instincts and cravings, and scrupulously attempts for self-refinement of character and deeds would qualify to commence Gayatri (Mantra) S³dhan³ under the guidance of a noble guru. If the consistency of japa is maintained with strict discipline and ïraddh³, the s³dhaka gradually begins to experience psychological and intellectual benefits like fearlessness, clarity of thought, mental concentration, prudence, reasoned decision-making, etc., and eventually attains spiritual development through this s³dhan³ in a short span of time.

Japa-s³dhan³ of a mantra is a spiritual experiment in which initially the baikharº v³ñº (our usual voice) is used for japa.

Successively, with progress in meditation, the madhyam³ v³ñº (e. g. our silent voice in thoughts) is used. A devout endeavor of this s³dhan³ with the great support of ïraddh³ helps gradual awakening of the inner voice and its sublime transmutation as païyanti and par³v³ñºs. We shall discuss these spiritually evolved levels of voice in the next issue.

Notes:

1. Ïabda: Eternal, the cosmic element of sound.

2. Pr³ña: Vital spiritual energy.

3. Ïraddh³: Intrinsic faith, deep reverence, and unflinching urge for divine ideals, values, and virtues; absolute reverence and devotion for God (and hence for the associated mantras).

4. Japa: Rhythmic repeated (mental) chanting with mental and emotional engrossment.

5. Japa-s³dhan³: Regular, thorough practice of japa with the observance of some ascetic and spiritual disciplines.

Reference: 1. Cosmic Energy Fields of Thoughts and Speech.

In Scientific Spirituality column of “Akhand Jyoti: The Light Divine,” Vol. 19, Issue 1, Jan-Feb. 2021.

Gayatri sadhana bestows longevity, energy, power, fame, wealth, and divine effulgence (Brahmateja).

- Atharva Veda, Hymn (19-1-71)

It is beyond human competence to describe the glory of Gayatri. Nothing is more important in the world than to attain spiritual wisdom, which is inspired by Gayatri Sadhana. – Jagat Guru Shankaracharya

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Health and Wellness

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here is an intimate connection between a person’s lifestyle and his health. A disciplined and regular lifestyle forms the basis of a healthy and disease-free life. In contrast, an irregular and distorted lifestyle proves very harmful in the long run as the body slowly gets inflicted with many life-threatening diseases.

Can Lifestyle Diseases be Prevented? blood sugar rates. In Kerala, over a quarter of all adult men and women have high blood sugar. The report further highlights that, in all the 22 states and UTs, around a quarter of the adult male population on average has elevated blood pressure or taking medication to control it. Harmful food habits, stressful lifestyles, and lack of sufficient physical activity are among the main reasons for this.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) released a report titled ‘India: Health of the Nation’s States’ (July 2, 2019). The report says that deaths due to lifestyle diseases increased from 37.9% in 1990 to 61.8% in 2016 meaning that more than 61% of deaths in India are due to conditions caused by lifestyle disorders.

Another disease associated with obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure is arteriosclerosis, which causes the hardness of arteries and reduces their suppleness. This leads to disruption in blood flow, heartache, and even heart attacks.

Heart diseases are the most dangerous of all lifestyle diseases.

Any irregularities that affect the heart’s arterial walls or muscles fall into the category of heart diseases. India has the highest number of patients with various heart diseases, with over five crore patients. The main reason for this is the habit of smoking, diabetes, and high levels of cholesterol. 26% of deaths in India happen due to heart diseases.

The data of Phase I of the new National Family Health Survey (NFHS) indicates that most states show a sharp rise in obesity. In 18 of the 22 states and UTs, more than one in five women and one in five men are now either overweight or obese, meaning she or he has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than or equal to 25 kilos per square meter. More prosperous states like Kerala and Goa have the highest

10 Crore people in India suffer from the disease of high blood pressure. The main reason for this, in addition to obesity and hereditary factors, is unhealthy eating habits. When BP exceeds 140/90, it is regarded as the condition of high blood pressure. When BP rises, even more, a person experiences heightened uneasiness and headache. Almost 11% of women and 15 % of men between 15 to 49 years of age are patients of high BP. High BP, if not treated correctly and on time, can even lead to a heart attack. It can also lead to blood clotting, which can obstruct blood flow to a part of the brain, reducing oxygen supply there and leading to stroke.

The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body. The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results. – Anthony Robbins

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Another lifestyle disorder is Swimmer’s Ear which occurs when headphones are used for long periods at high volumes.

According to a study, about 12.5% of people lose their hearing due to constant exposure to high levels of sound, and this number is growing at a fast pace.

control these lifestyle diseases? The answer is in the affirmative. They can be prevented in the first stage and contained in later stages also if lifestyles are appropriately regulated.

Cancer is also a deadly disease, which in 70 to 90% of cases is linked to lifestyle disorder. India had 13.3 lakh cancer patients in 2014, and this number increased to 15.2 lakhs in 2017. In the stressful life of today, our immunity and capability to fight diseases are reducing continuously. Due to this, when cells begin to grow in an uncontrolled manner, cancer develops. Many factors cause cancer. Smoking for a long time causes lung cancer, and excessive exposure to sunlight can cause skin cancer. Air pollution, consuming alcohol and tobacco are the primary causes of cancer.

To address lifestyle disorder-related issues, we must first pay attention to our food habits. As far as possible, our food should be simple, nutritious, and natural. Give priority to seasonal fruits and vegetables. Avoid excess salt and sugar. Use jaggery instead of sugar and rock salt instead of ordinary salt.

These small changes directly reduce the susceptibility to heart diseases, obesity, and diabetes. A sound sleep of 7-8 hours daily is essential because sleep enhances the body’s energy levels, capacity to make decisions, and self-confidence to face adverse circumstances.

Excessive consumption of alcohol causes cirrhosis which is a disease of the liver. Drinking alcohol has become a severe lifestyle disorder. Due to stress in daily life, people have started consuming excessive alcohol.

Mental diseases are also, to a large extent, caused by lifestyle disorders. In our country, around one crore people suffer from mental illnesses and need medical attention. Lack of social support and good nutrition, and financial instability are the leading causes of mental ailments. Several research studies have also found a connection between environment and mental health. Air pollution adversely affects mental health.

In 2016, there were 3.5 crore people affected by asthma. In Delhi, every third child suffers from some form of a lung ailment. Air pollution is a cause of 30% of untimely deaths.

All these diseases are becoming a grave concern for human society.

Now the question arises – Is it possible to prevent or

Sleeping for very few hours and sleeping excessively increase stress levels and irritability and lead to distorted lifestyles. Take out some time for exercise in the morning hours.

Regular walking, yogasanas, Pragya yoga, or other simple exercises could be included in this.

The direct benefits of reduction in weight, increase in energy levels, and enhanced freshness will be visible

Man is more miserable, more restless, and unsatisfied than ever before, simply because half his nature - the spiritual - is starving for true food, and the other half - the material - is fed with bad food. - Paul Brunton

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in just a few days of exercise. Gradually the duration of exercises can be increased. If the weight of a person is more than required, then the physical activity must be included in the daily routine. It has been found that a reduction of weight by 10% brings down blood pressure and cholesterol, and the person begins to feel much better.

Simple steps can be taken like walking up to the office instead of driving or parking one’s vehicle at a distance from the workplace so that walking becomes necessary. Use stairs instead of the lift. Clean the home and garden instead of remaining glued to TV or mobile. If the office is not too far, go on a bicycle.

It has also been established by research that the habits of spending most of the time in the office or home in a sitting position are very harmful to health. Time spent sitting should be reduced, and we must stand for 5 minutes in between.

Always start the day with two glasses of water, preferably lukewarm. Water helps in removing undigested parts of the food from our bodies. It cleanses inner organs, which then helps to absorb the nutritional elements of the consumed food. It helps in reducing weight and in controlling the habit of overeating. It creates a glow in the body, helps regulate body temperature through sweat, and aids cells’ regeneration in the body.

Our state of mind is also very important. We need to maintain a positive mental and emotional state. For this, we need to associate ourselves with what makes us happy, search for what obstructs us in attaining happiness, and then put in the best efforts to remove them. It is essential to be with oneself and hold on to and maintain a good rhythm of life. A healthy and balanced lifestyle is an effective method to prevent disorders that may disrupt the flow of life. ◙

Why not walk upstairs?

Walking on streets and trails is superb for health. And so is walking upstairs. Coaches, cardiologists, and homemakers have long been in on the secret of stairs. … What’s so special about the stairs? Researchers in Canada answered the question by monitoring 17 healthy male volunteers with an average age of 64 while they walked, lifted weights, or climbed stairs. Stair climbing was the most demanding. It was twice as taxing as brisk walking on the level and 50% harder than walking up a steep incline or lifting weights…. Because stairs are so taxing, only the very young at heart should attempt to charge up long flights. But at a slow, steady pace, stairs can be a health plus for the rest of us. Begin modestly with a flight or two, and then add more as you improve. Even at a slow pace, you’ll burn calories two to three times faster climbing stairs than walking briskly on the level.

[From: Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School)]

What drains your spirit drains your body. What fuels your spirit fuels your body. – Caroline Myss AKHAND JYOTI

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The Festival of Colors to Cleanse and Rejuvenate the Mind Indian Culture is full of social gatherings and celebrations in the form of festivals. Every festival of India propagates the message of “Unity in Diversity” and joyfulness. The uniqueness of many of our cultural values is also reflected in the specific traditions associated with the festivals.

For example, every festival here begins with the youngsters paying respect to the elders in the family — by touching their feet and the elders showering their love and blessings on the youngsters.

Whether it is “Rakshabandhan” — the festival of strengthening the bonds of sacred, affectionate relationship, “Dussera” — the festival to celebrate the victory of good over evil, “Deepawali” — the festival of light, etc., all spread the message of goodwill and positivity, mutual respect, and togetherness among all sections of the society.

The social spirit and tradition of collective celebration and the joy of togetherness and fun are most prominently seen during Holi — the festival of colors. Everyone appears similar during this festival; colors on people’s faces and clothes wipe out

all the differences, if any, of their looks, status, faiths, or whatsoever. Playing joyfully with colors is like transmitting and reciprocating the message of goodwill and love. This is like a natural psychological exercise of relieving stress and throwing away the mutual bitterness, if any. The playful celebrations and open laughter all around this festival also help wash out the traces of tensions and depression. Thus, in principle, Holi is a festival of cleansing and rejuvenating the mind by spreading colors outside.

Mythological teaching The burning of Holika a night before playing with colors is believed to have roots in a mythological tale: Child prince Prahlad was saved miraculously because of his true devotion and steadfast faith in the Almighty God Vishnu. The child was made to sit in the flames of huge fire with his demonic aunt, who had plotted the conspiracy to kill him, as she had a supernatural power to protect herself from burning.

Astonishingly, this time the flames charred her into ashes but left Prahlad safe and healthy, engrossed in the devotional prayers. Like the other teachings of Indian mythology, via allegoric narrations, this story symbolizes the triumph of the purity of heart and divine-like higher values (adoption of which is essential for true devotion) over all vices and adversities. The burning of Holika also symbolizes destroying the evils within, and the dirt (rubbish) spread outside.

A unique sport It is a festival that is celebrated like a sport; it is the only sport in which there are no strict rules, except moral decency, which is an essential requirement of a civilized society. It is

Holi is the perfect time to break the ice, breathe new life into relationships and have a blast with people with bright colors of the festival. – Anonymous AKHAND JYOTI

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perhaps the only sport in which the little children, youth, as well as elderly people together participate enthusiastically. Traditional Indian sweets (e.g., Gujiy³) and tasty home-made sweet cold drinks (Thanóº) further magnify the festivity of Holi.

The festival of Holi is celebrated in our country on the day after the full-moon night during the peak of spring every year. Spring — the queen of all seasons is celebrated in one form or the other across the globe. The weather is most pleasant during this part of the year. The spirit of joy and beauty of Nature is manifested most vivaciously in this season via full blossoming of flowers, flourishing of trees with varieties of seasonal fruits all around, new saplings of crops, and sonorous melody of warbling of the cheerful birds, all around. The use of colors in the festivity of Holi seems to signify our spirit of joining Nature’s celebration. At the same time, this also reminds us of our roots in Nature, which we have forgotten for decades because of our blind race of materialistic development and artificial lifestyle.

Do not malign the fest Unfortunately, the predominance of our extrovert and materialistic outlook and sensory passions has led us to a mindless approach to life itself. Consequent negligence of our cultural roots and values has hampered even the methods of our celebrations and enjoyments. As a result, the way we organize and celebrate religious, cultural, and social festivals these days has also gone wrong. Holi seems among the worst affected fests. While playing with colors, many people put colors on others (in their acquaintance) almost forcefully like hooligans; at times, some men behave indecently and also take it as an opportunity to touch women.

Many people mix bh³nga (intoxicating hemp) in the sweetmeats and Úhand³i especially prepared for Holi, in the name of ‘tradition’; this adds to the mad uproar mischief of

their celebrations. At times excessive consumption of bh³nga even causes serious health problems. A more severe health-hazard of Holi is the use of chemically synthesized ‘artificial’ colors.

Such colors often damage the skin and nails; these are also hazardous to the eyes; inhalation of the chemicals in these colors not only irritates the nose but also risks adverse effects on the respiratory tract and lungs. Use of such colors should therefore be prohibited.

The use of eco-friendly colors made from natural products, on the contrary, adds soothing effects to the joy of the festival of colors. For this purpose, one does not have to purchase expensive organic or eco-friendly colors from some select shops/vendors, as several types of natural colors may be made at home without any problem. Ecofriendly colors made from natural products also have a natural soothing fragrance of the constituents. This adds to the joy of the festival of colors.

Preparation of eco-friendly colors Green-colored dry powder may be made by mixing an adequate quantity of henna (meóhadº) powder with some wheat flour. Mixing an appropriate amount of water in it would result in a green-colored paste or liquid. For dry yellow color, one may mix turmeric powder (Haldi) with besan (split black

Holi is the right time to splatter the colors of joy everywhere. It is an occasion to love and forgive. It’s all about expressing the happiness of being loved through colors. – Anonymous AKHAND JYOTI

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gram powder) in a 1:2 ratio; mixing water would result in a paste or liquid of yellow color. Use of more turmeric would give dark yellow shade; a concentrate of turmeric boiled in water would make the color last very long on the skin. Multani soil may also be used in place of besan.

If the petals of Cassia (amalat³s) flowers, marigold (gend³) flowers, peacock flowers (Gulmohar), and/ or the flowers of ‘flame of the forest’ (tesu)are boiled for about five minutes in water, and the solution is kept undisturbed (after one thorough stir) overnight. These solutions will give pleasing liquid colors with different shades of yellow and orange (e.g., golden yellow or orange-red, etc.).

Red sandalwood powder can be used to make the red color. Concentrated paste or liquid of desired shade of red may be prepared by boiling it (two tablespoons

of the powder mixed in about 2 liters of water) till the desired concentration is achieved. Red Hibiscus (gulhaÃ) or red rose flowers may also be used for preparing the paste or liquids for different shades of red color. Pink orchid (kachan³ra) flowers may similarly be used for preparations of pink color/ shade. A boiled concentrated solution of beetroot would give a maroon-colored paste or liquid.

Catechu (katth³) powder (or its paste) may be used for brown color; mixing a small quantity of turmeric powder in it would give it a dark orange shade. Boiling the beans of the Indigo plant in water up to desired concentration would give colored liquids with different shades of blue and indigo. Grinding paste or boiled concentrated solution of blue hibiscus flower may also be used for shining blue color. Thus, one may make varieties of risk-free colors from the plants and flowers and/or natural products available in or around one’s house.

All the enthusiasts of Holi celebrations should use natural colors and healthy sweetmeats without any adulteration and intoxication and enjoy this festival decently with the people around them. They should also join hands and spread the spirit of amity and collectiveness in a truly cultured way of celebrating this colorful festival of spring.

Why do we celebrate Holi with colors?

According to a legend, Lord Krishna had developed a characteristic blue skin color after Putana, a demon, poisoned him with her breast milk. Krishna was worried if the fair-skinned Radha and her companions would ever like him because of his skin color. Krishna’s mother, Yashoda, then suggested him to approach Radha and smear her face with some dark color. The playful coloring gradually evolved as a tradition in the Braj region. Now it is observed as a festival of Holi all over India. The customs and traditions are different in different regions of India, but the spirit of ‘forget and forgive and celebrate life’ is the same everywhere.

Attitude alone determines whether one experiences one's life as a blessing or curse, a festival or funeral. - Marty Rubin AKHAND JYOTI

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The Charter of Global Peace

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e are all familiar with United Nations Organization (abbreviated UNO or simply UN).

In the present world scenario, let us recall, in short, the history and objectives of the UN. It was established after World War II to prevent future wars. On 25 April 1945, 50 governments met in San Francisco for a conference. They started drafting the UN Charter, which was adopted on 25 June 1945 and took effect on 24 October 1945, when the UN began operations. Today 193 nations are members of this organization. It aims (1) to maintain international peace and security, (2) to develop friendly relations among nations based on equality and the principle of self-determination, (3) to foster worldwide cooperation in solving economic, social, cultural, and humanitarian problems, (4) to promote human rights and fundamental freedom for the people of the world, (5) to serve as a center where various nations can coordinate their activities towards the attainment of the objectives of the UN, and (6) to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.

In 1946, United Nations released a global charter of human rights, which included topics like freedom of speech, etc.

Every year United Nations General Assembly is convened as an annual event. During this, Prime Ministers and Presidents of various countries address the Assembly and vote in favor of or against the issues brought to vote. Each country has only one vote.

The UN has six principal organs to carry out its functions.

Among them, the Security Council is the most important and effective organ. It is the executive wing of the UN. The Security Council consists of 15 members. Five of them are permanent members, namely Britain, China, France, Russia, and the USA. The General Assembly elects the other ten non-permanent members for a term of two years. Each member has one vote. Decisions are taken by a majority vote of at least nine members, including the five permanent members. Each permanent member has the power to reject or veto a decision. This means that a negative vote by any one of the permanent members would lead to a cancellation of the resolution. The Security Council has the primary responsibility of maintaining peace and security in the world.

Secretary-General is the head of the UN. This position is elected by the five permanent members of the Security Council. So, it is doubtful that there is no interference or vested interests of the members in choosing a particular person for this post. Though the UN’s objective is to uphold human rights and establish peace, we do not see this esteemed global organization fulfilling this goal.

Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding. - Albert Einstein AKHAND JYOTI

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Many people are even questioning the purpose of its existence.

Pujya Gurudev had foreseen such conditions many decades ago, which is why he gave ‘Yug Nirman Satsankalp’ (literally meaning solemn resolve for ushering in a new era) as the constitution for humanity in the 21st century. It was published for the first time in the March 1962 issue of Akhand Jyoti (Hindi). In the same article, Gurudev also outlined the initial manifesto of Yug Nirman Yojana.

Keeping this objective in mind, he dedicated the first resolve to the topic that is the foremost duty of every human being. He wrote – ‘Firmly believing in the Omnipresence of God and His unfailing justice, we pledge to abide by basic Divine principles (Dharma).’

Pujya Gurudev gave utmost importance to theism. When an

individual has faith in God, he learns to walk on the path of righteousness and lives under the discipline of a higher divine power. In this context, theism or faith is not confined to just worship and rituals. It propels us towards being responsible. One who has accepted the power of a higher authority (Ishwar) becomes truly responsible towards oneself. Considering the body as the Temple of God, he is ever watchful to keep it healthy and full of vitality by adopting the principles of self-control, order, and harmony in his life.

Apart from physical health, Pujya Gurudev emphasized the need to keep the mind free from the inrush of negative thoughts and emotions. For this purpose, he suggested adopting a regular program of study of ennobling and inspiring literature (Svadhyaya) and upkeep Saints’ company (Satsanga). He also advised us to exercise strict control over senses, thoughts, emotions and utilize our time and resources to benefit the needy.

In the next few points in the pledge, Pujya Gurudev suggests the need to imbibe the virtues for maintaining goodwill and harmony in society. Obviously, for this purpose, we should consider ourselves inseparable parts of society and should see our good in the good of all. We must abide by basic moral code, refrain from wrong-doing and discharge our duties as

A world community can exist only with world communication, which means something more than extensive short-wave facilities scattered worldwide. It means common understanding, a common tradition, common ideas, and common ideals.

- Robert M. Hutchins

When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace. - Jimi Hendrix AKHAND JYOTI

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citizens committed to society’s well-being. Further, we should sincerely endeavor to create an environment of loving kindness, cleanliness, simplicity, and goodwill.

Pujya Gurudev has also presented a progressive idea that one should give precedence to discriminating wisdom over blind traditions and heartily accepting failure obtained by fair means rather than success through unfair methods. He also advised us to give importance to universal well-being and not be selfish.

He suggested that we contribute regularly and religiously a portion of our time, talent, and resources for spreading nobility and righteousness in the world. He also said that every citizen of the world should take an oath not to behave with others in a manner that is not acceptable to him/her.

The pledge’s other points focus on both men and women to maintain pure intentions towards one another and treat respectfully. He concludes the pledge by encouraging us

to have complete faith that we are the architects of our destiny and that self-refinement is the surest way for universal welfare.

Each and every word of this solemn pledge is a seed for thought revolution.

If these are adopted and imbibed in the life of every citizen of the world, the positive transformation of society is not far. Today, when United Nations Organization is struggling to find its relevance, the Yug Nirman Satsankalp given by Pujya Gurudev is like a charter of global peace. On the Golden Jubilee of Shantikunj, let us propagate these principles and establish peace and harmony among all the nations.

To pledge or not to pledge?

There is an interesting anecdote in the epic Mahabharat. Shantanu wanted to marry Satyavati. Satyavati’s father agreed on the condition that Satyavati’s son would be the king of Hastinapur. Shantanu could not accept this condition since Devavrat was the crown prince. Dejected Shantanu returned to Hastinapur. Devavrat, on knowing the reason for his father’s grief, went to Satyavati’s father. He vowed that he would never claim the throne of Hastinapur. Satyavati’s father was not satisfied. He said, ‘What if your sons claim the throne?’ So Devavrat swore that he would not create progeny and remain a bachelor.

Satyavati’s father was satisfied. Shantanu praised Devavrat for his oath and married Satyavati. Devavrat gained the name Bhishma (one who took a terrible oath). The later part of the epic makes one question whether Bhishma’s pledge and his abidance to it were really wise since it bound him to the side of unrighteousness and die on the side of adharma.

But it’s also due to his oath and the sacrifices he made for the same that he is revered as the most respected character in the epic.

Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise. - Victor Hugo AKHAND JYOTI

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Youth Column

Augment Three Assets to Lead a Fulfilling Life

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very cell of our body is filled with treasure. To explore this treasure, all we need is the proper utilization of our time and effort. Keen interest, enthusiasm, and concentration in the work yield manifold benefits. If lethargy and negligence are our styles of functioning, then the gains will be negligible.

A well-organized and all-inclusive mode of functioning enhances the value and level of work. It sharpens our intellect and elevates us to higher levels of thinking far beyond our usual style. Well-organized work enhances the magnificence, ingenuity, and inclusiveness of our efforts. The extraordinary progress of great people all over the world has been achieved on the basis of well-organized work.

Fortune does not shower on anyone by chance. A person who is dependent on others can never lead a respectable life.

One can inherit wealth, but that does not last long. The one who has not earned wealth by hard work can never make fair use of it. These days, people make money through wrong and immoral means, but that kind of money does

not serve a useful purpose. The earnings of hard and honest work will only multiply. If our body is well-trained by hard and zealous work, we will neither be poor nor dependent on others, and we will not be driven to immoral means.

After prosperity, the next asset is education/learning. When we see successful professionals like lawyers, doctors, engineers, artists, or scholars, we feel: “Alas! If I had such good fortune, I would have led a respectable, rich life”. We often blame others for our failures. But it is not right to make some people or circumstances responsible for our adversity.

If we can understand the value of education/learning and make enthusiastic efforts in the right direction, intellectual progress automatically gets drawn towards us. A majority of the world’s great personalities have made their way to triumph in the face of adversities.

Pujya Gurudev learned English during a year of imprisonment in connection with the freedom movement. He mastered English by writing on a tin plate with stone, by using one old newspaper as a book, and by soliciting the support of other prisoners, who gladly helped him. This astonishing success was neither magic nor a miracle. If the dormant potential in one is aroused and the determination to accomplish the impossible is there, then fortune smiles on the person. Like other divine gifts, education is attracted by inner magnetism.

Many illustrious personalities from all over the world stand as proof of this reality.

The third asset is the empathetic inner self, where sympathetic emotions flow like the ripples on the surface of Mansarovar

You can make a difference, wherever you are. It begins with a decision and defined purpose. - Lailah Gifty Akita AKHAND JYOTI

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Lake or gush like the waves of the Ganga. Insensitivity is the rock that blocks the doors of the inner self. This is the point from which bliss originates, where the gods reside, the great souls thrive, and the consciousness of great sages resides.

Narrow selfishness is the obstacle that prevents a man from becoming generous and making use of the extraordinary opportunity of higher-level service to humanity.

Man is a misguided angel. If he can find his lost way and tread on the royal path by using discrimination, he will not only find his destination but will be able to help many others to reach theirs. For this, neither great knowledge nor the immense strength of a bodybuilder is required. Kabir, Dadu, Raidas, Meerabai, Shabari, and others — who, even now till this day, are the source of great inspiration for many — did not achieve their fame based on their scholarliness or wealth.

Body, mind, and inner self are the three mines from which man can extract diamonds and other precious stones that he may desire. Deserving people automatically get external help. The students who score good marks get scholarships quickly. People who are not eligible blame their stars or even other people for their misfortune. Progressive people cannot be stopped by anything. The determination of the Ganga to reach the ocean can never be blocked.

At critical times one might need help from others, but the utility of such support is minimal. At times the sympathy received from kind people helps to tide over a difficult situation, but we cannot attain the goals of life through

sympathy, nor can it present an array of successes and achievements.

One of the two major but invisible problems of today is that people have become accustomed to depending on others. They are only capable of meaningless imitation of others. They do not have the discrimination to accept what is desirable or the courage to throw away the undesirable aspects. If a man succeeds in overcoming the dependency, then the courage to accept good will arise from within, and like a lone traveler, he can attain the best of all the three worlds.

Today’s most frightening problem is the dependency of human consciousness, dormancy of intuition, and inability to understand what is right — and thus getting lost in thorny bushes.

The possibility of a bright future lies in overcoming these impediments.

The axiom that man is made by his circumstances applies only to spineless people. The reality is that people rich in spiritual strength can create desired circumstances by virtue of their willpower and merit. ◙

Patience serves as a protection against wrongs as clothes do against cold. If you put on more clothes as the cold increases, it will have no power to hurt you. So in like manner, you must grow in patience when you meet with great wrongs.

- Leonardo da Vinci

Don’t be defined by someone else’s standards, have your own definition of success. - Duke Matlock AKHAND JYOTI

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Introspection is Essential for Self-Improvement

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ntrospection is an essential means and necessary phase of self-improvement, which is often neglected, and for this very reason, man lives in an apprehensive and distressed state of mind. Introspection is a close observation of own thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It is an effective tool to determine the prime reason for mental stress, grief, and predicaments within own conscience and differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate thoughts. It is an art to examine and ruminate over own thoughts methodically.

Any disease or pain can invade the physical body; mental disorders like envy, jealousy, anger, stress, depression, etc., can also permeate the mind. Identifying the nature and cause of physical ailments through evaluation of patient’s history, examining and reviewing laboratory data derived from various clinical tests is always the priority of medical experts before starting the patient’s treatment.

Determining the cause of the disease is the initial stage of starting the treatment.

Likewise, appropriate diagnosis of

mental disorders is quite necessary for their proper treatment, which can be better carried out by introspection. Diagnosis of physical ailments is different from mental illnesses only in one aspect that former can be cured with the help of medical experts, hospital care, and medicines but relying on outside support is not of much use in mental diseases. A psychiatrist can offer advice only about the course of treatment, but the patient has to work on his own for recovery to come out of mental disturbances. A patient has to become his own physician and perform self-evaluation or introspection to its full extent.

Introspection is helpful not only in diagnosis but also in stopping the growth of the disease. A consistent practice of self-evaluation makes the patient mentally so powerful that he becomes impervious to all types of ailments. Finally, it dissipates them before they can inflict any harm, and gradually this self-evaluation becomes an integral part of his life.

Self-evaluation can initially be practiced by attentively observing our thoughts for 10-15 minutes. Continuously observe whatever thoughts arise within one’s mind without disturbing or putting any effort to pacify them. Consistently watch them. Once the mind’s inclination and its prevailing movements are acknowledged by consistent practice, they can be dealt with accordingly. Introspection provides the strength which makes the man face the challenges with steadfast determination.

An amateur person afflicted by severe misfortune can evolve

Failure holds the seeds for greatness - so long as you water those seeds with introspection, they can be the root of your success. - Daniel Lubetzky

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into maximum excellence if he has intellect and vigor; on the other hand, if he lacks intelligence and is vulnerable to stress or strain, he succumbs to vicious habits of destructive behavior and gets confused in various paradoxical situations.

This happens when he fails to perceive the origin of his problems due to ignorance and is carried away with unfortunate circumstances.

In the absence of introspection, man is always unaware of his deficiencies. He wishes to steer the world as per his terms. When this does not happen, he gets irritated, succumbs to a negative outlook of repugnance, and malevolence and starts behaving obstinately. The regular practice of self-evaluation helps him to come out of such a negative attitude. He begins to understand that every individual has his own domain and own authentic perception for which he has humble regard.

Such introspection enables the person to see the world without any hypotheses. Instead of exaggerating flaws in others, he learns to find faults within his own being. So long as the person is not inclined to sensory temptations, he is not driven away by worldly passions. In such a way, self-evaluation promotes the capability to surmise the cause of any problem and find its possible solution.

Sometimes our mind is regulated by negative emotional urges, and wandering in worldly attractions works as our enemy by conniving with evil instincts. Such an uncontrolled mind is the most potent enemy of man, and when run in this state for long, it misleads the person in a variety of ways.

An average person unknowingly ruins his time by indulging in gossips, planning artifices, or is characterized by violent or destructive behavior. When the time comes to make a wise decision in life, he finds himself incapable of facing the challenges. But regular practice of introspection protects the person from facing such unfortunate situations.

With the consistent practice of selfevaluation, a man becomes vigilantly attentive to the harms of his evil habits and the merits of wise habits.

In this way, a creative transformation starts taking shape within himself.

Self-improvement begins in three stages. Initially, virtuous thoughts begin shaping in conscience, then rises the intensity to arrive at a decision, and then the process of improvement starts taking shape. The practice of self-evaluation enlightens our prudence and intellect, makes us alert, and saves us from committing vicious acts.

Diary writing can prove a very appropriate medium for practicing self-evaluation. Draw two columns in it and note down legitimate uses of times in one column and keep a record of illegitimate uses of time in the other. The findings of such separation will gradually reveal where we are killing our time and help us find out the means to overcome those flaws. Such an exercise and regular practice of self-evaluation will help us find out the origin of our evil habits, eradicate them and tighten our grip on virtuous attributes. Feeling of contentment and ecstasy resulting from such transformation will deliver the true meaning of life. ◙

The philosophy of the wisest man that ever existed, is mainly derived from the act of introspection. - William Godwin AKHAND JYOTI

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Balance of Prana is Essential

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ife is like a garland of breaths.

The body and the mind are both tied together with the thread of prana or the vital force. It is prana which maintains a balance between the body and the mind. Any discomfort in the body or commotion in the mind creates a disturbance in the rhythm of the breathing pattern too. These days, health problems of all sorts have increased in a big way. This is because there exists no longer a harmonious balance between body, mind, and prana.

Extensive studies have been made on the body by medical experts and the mind by psychologists. The body and the mind differ in their innate nature.

The body is concerned with biological functions, and the mind with mental.

The body lives in the present, but the mind never stays there for long; it is always fleeting. The mind can fulfill the body’s requirements, but the body cannot meet the needs of the mind.

Both traverse different paths. This prevents the creation of harmony and balance between the two.

The yogis of all ages intensely studied the breath in all its dimensions and concluded that other things could be brought under control if we can control the breath. Control over the prana will enable control over the mind also. When the mind is in its natural rhythm, we become oblivious of the corporeal body. After realizing the vital importance of breath in our existence, all mythological systems - Hindu, Buddhist, Sufi, and others - teach how to control the breath.

The body is a depository of energy. It is enriched by the breathing process. But most of us today do not know the right way of breathing. Indeed, proper breathing should form the very first stage of the art of living. If humanity learns the correct way of breathing, it will not suffer bodily and mental disorders. Anger, agitation, anxiety, sleeplessness, and other such disorders will automatically go away if breathing is in harmony with its natural rhythm.

The present time calls for even more attentiveness towards the function of breathing. Man’s life is full of problems of all sorts. In an effort to overcome these problems, he can rise to the sublime level of divinity or fall to the abysmal pit of

There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life, and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.

- Sophia Loren Feelings come and go, like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor. - Thich Nhat Hanh AKHAND JYOTI

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evilness. Unfortunately, it is the latter tendency that is more prevalent in man today. One visible trend is the increasing resort to all kinds of drugs and intoxicants in society.

Balance in breathing depends on the balance in prana. The right and controlled flow of prana is called pranayama.

When we are attentive to the inhalation and exhalation of the breath, not only our bodily processes, become balanced and harmonious, but our highly agile mind, too, instead of fleeting hither and thither, gets fixated on the present in that particular moment. This develops the precious attribute of concentration in a person’s personality.

There are many processes for the regulation of breathing or pranayama, but in the present time, the most effective is the ‘pranakarshana pranayama’ propounded by Pujya Gurudev. The root cause of the widespread anarchy visible

all around in the material world is the toxicity pervading the subtle world.

Its cure lies in the sublime and subtle sadhana done collectively. While at the individual level, the pranakarshana pranayama aids in the flow of vital force or prana in the sadhaka, at the collective level, and simultaneously, the whole atmosphere is infused with a heavenly radiance which has the potency to detoxify and refine the subtle world. All Gayatri parijans should incorporate this Pranakarshana pranayama in their sadhana routine so that besides the self-refinement, the noble path of the public good is facilitated. ◙

Observe your own body. It breathes. You breathe when you are asleep, when you are no longer conscious of your own ideas of selfidentity. Who, then, is breathing? The collection of information that you mistakenly think it’s you is not the main protagonist in this drama called the breath. In fact, you are not breathing; breath is naturally happening to you. You can purposely end your own life, but you cannot consciously keep your own life going. The expression “My life” is actually an oxymoron, a result of ignorance and mistaken assumption. You don’t possess life; life expresses itself through you.

- Ilchi Lee

Bring body and mind back to the present moment. So that you do not miss the appointment with life. - Thich Nhat Hanh AKHAND JYOTI

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The Road to Holistic Progress in Life

A

Human being is a supreme creature on earth. He/she has infinite potential for progress. In the Shanti Parva of Mahabharata, sage Veda Vyasa declares him as the most incredible creature of the universe.

All religions and cultures believe that man can grow only to a certain extent; he can elevate himself to the status of a prophet or an angel, but not to that of God. However, the Sanatana Dharma and its culture declare – ‘Jºvo brahmaiva n³para¡,’ meaning that Jºva (soul) is equivalent to Brahma (God). The reason for this is that he possesses the inherent ability to realize the ultimate goal of life.

Aitreya Upanishad says that Purusha (soul) is the seat of Parmatma (God); the latter is illuminated in it. The extent of expression of the soul in the human body is more significant than that in any other living being. It has knowledge as well as wisdom. This is the basis on which the Shatapatha Brahmana asserts that man is closest to God. In Lord Krishna’s words, ‘I have created many creatures, but the human body is dearest to me.’ In his book, Vivek Chudamani, Shankaracharya has kept

humanity in the first place among the three precious graces of God – humanity, attainment of salvation, and association with saintly personalities.

This is the significance of human life due to which our scriptures have repeatedly insisted on cherishing and enriching this precious life, and with immense patience and devotion. Knowing the importance of human life, Jain Tirthankara Mahavir Swami has expounded ‘The fruits of actions are profound and intense. Therefore, oh being! do not be negligent even for a moment.’ Pointing to the primary obligation of this rare human life, Devi Bhagawat states that - ‘On attaining this destructible human body, one should endeavor to do his good by utilizing it in search of the eternal, ever-lasting truth.’

Despite these declarations of the scriptures, most people’s pursuits throughout their life do not go beyond the scope of their body and mind. One who strives to be liberated does attain the ultimate freedom while accomplishing the four endeavors of life - Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), Kama (worldly desires), and Moksha (liberation), which together comprise the Purushartha Chatushtya.

These are the four chief pillars of our divine culture, on which is based its entire philosophy. These are also the essential requirements of the sojourn of human life.

Life has only two primary aims or objectives, which are - enjoying worldly pleasures and attaining liberation.

Both objectives could be achieved only through the twin mediums of prosperity and righteousness. The pair of

Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success. - Edward Everett Hale AKHAND JYOTI

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two goals and two means together constitute Purusharth Chatushtya.

Some people try to attain Artha, which is wealth, while others strive for Kama or happiness. Some people also endeavor for the source of these two, which is Dharma. But prosperity and desires are achieved on their own when one fulfills his obligations. Upon duly achieving these three objectives, the ultimate endeavor of liberation, which is freedom from all bonds, is reached naturally in an effortless manner, which signifies the success of human life.

Revered Gurudev Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya explains while envisaging the contemporary interpretation of Purushartha Chatushtya that the virtuous man of the twentyfirst century will be cultured and courteous. Without imbibing righteousness and sensitivity, he would not be able to earn wealth or properly manage his resources, nor would he be able to enjoy his desires in a refined manner. Hence, there are three means for upliftment or overall progress: wealth, enjoyment, and righteousness. Among these three, earning is higher than worldly pleasure, while dutifulness assumes the highest place. Then comes liberation, which is the greatest of all attainments.

Mahabharata’s Shanti Parva mentions three types of malice or flaws that keep human life always under threat. The first one is the desire associated with obligations that make the actions binding for producing results; second, hiding and hoarding wealth - neither utilizing it for social welfare nor spending it and finally, overindulging in pleasures and being more and more entangled in the web of excessive attachment and lust. These three tendencies have been referred to as egotism, avarice, and passion, respectively. Freedom from these three materialistic bonds has been referred to as salvation or liberation.

Therefore, sages have always given the message of

Ostentation of money can be widely seen everywhere, and compelling charm and excitement of everything that can be purchased by money can be seen delusively alluring and amazing everyone with their spectacular display.

Embellishment of quite a few of them has an irresistible effect as well. Despite the presence of an array of many successful artists, business persons, and virtuous people in society, there are few who succeeded in their paths of progress with their courage and virility confronting hostilities; retrieved the oppressed persons and illuminated the path of gloomy and low spirited people.

All the people find ways to satisfy their means in life, but praiseworthy are those who simultaneously contribute a lot to make the life of others easy and progressive. But what a pity that despite having such miraculous capability within everyone, no-one seems to have even identified this virtue then what to say of utilizing it.

– Pujya Gurudev Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya

We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community... Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own. - Cesar Chavez

AKHAND JYOTI

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performing the duties without any desire. Wealth should be earned not for selfish attainments but for others’ welfare, and pleasures should be sought only to sustain the body. The person or society which follows these principles would never be distressed.

The consumption-oriented Western society is focused on enjoyment and emphasis on wealth. Modern people are increasingly being entrapped in the world’s snares due to the absence of morality or ethics, compassion, restrictions, boundaries, and the metaphysics for channelizing life in

the proper direction. Thus, in the absence of virtues, they lead a wretched life by being entangled into sorrow, sadness, conflict, and hatred.

Our sages, the eminent experts of human consciousness, have demarcated two paths before human beings - one is pleasure, while the other is welfare. The first one is primarily oriented towards fulfilling personal happiness, while the second one is dedicated to the cause of ensuring collective well-being.

While the former prioritizes wealth and pleasures, the latter aims to procure wealth and happiness based on righteousness, leading to liberation. Our divine culture suggests a practical approach to carry out all these endeavors while living in a household. It elucidates the path to transform this body and mind into a living shrine and achieve holistic progress in life. ◙

King Janshruti possessed the rare faculty of understanding the language of birds. Once, he heard a pair of Swans talking – “The cart-puller Raikya is a real muni. He is much greater than King Janashruti because of his total devotion to the altruist service of the society”. The king was naturally upset to hear that a poor laborer is greater than a kind and brave king like himself. He asked the royal envoys to find out the whereabouts of Raikya. He went to meet this ‘muni’ along with lots of valuable gifts. He told Raikya that I have heard that you are a great muni; kindly teach me something on “Brahma Vidya.” Muni Raikya humbly refused the wealth brought by the king, saying that his simple lifestyle did not require anything of that sort; it should be distributed among the needy. About the teaching of “Brahma Vidya,” he replied – “Honorable King! Purification of the inner self is a must to begin learning the Brahma Vidya. For this, you will have to abandon your ego and adopt true faith in the presence of God in every being. Then alone, you acquire the necessary qualification to attain true knowledge. Janashruti realized his mistake and engaged himself in gaining the greatness of the inner self, leaving aside the desires of majestic attainments and fame in the external world.

Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. - George Bernard Shaw AKHAND JYOTI

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Odyssey of the Enlightened – 78

Noble Guru is a Reflection of God - 1

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he construction work of Gayatri Tapobhumi was going on at a satisfactory pace in the bagichi land after registration.

One day, the road in front of the construction site was almost deserted in the morning. As such, there was hardly any traffic on the Mathura-Vrindavan road those days. Moreover, it was summer, so except for some pilgrims, people mostly used to go to that side only for an evening stroll. It was morning time; Shriram was walking around the construction site to inspect the work’s progress. Suddenly a Sadhu entered, pushing the wooden gate of Tapobhumi. “Jai, Jai Radhe!” - He uttered in a loud voice.

Then he almost ran towards Shriram and fell upon his feet with reverence. Shriram lifted him, saying, “Please don’t touch my feet, you are a Sadhu, I should be paying you respect. Please get up and tell me what I can do for you”. Sadhu got up but did not stand up. He sat near Shriram’s feet and offered “Pranam” (regards) and said — “You are my guru, and I am your disciple; it won’t be a mistake on your part if you accept my respect.”

“Who is the guru, and who is a disciple? How could I be your guru?” - Shriram questioned. Then the Sadhu said — “You may not remember, but you are the one who had shown me the light of God. How can I forget my noble guide? It was about twenty-five years ago when you had come to this region of Braj with your father. You might have been only a child or a teenager at that time, but your words had conveyed to me what I was seeking for long. You had opened my eyes and showed me the path. You had told me that I would find Him (through devotional sadhana) in the sacred land of Vrindavan itself. It was your blessings; I indeed had His realization that very day. I

found my Govind (Lord Krishna)”.

Shriram recollected that experience of childhood! Sadhu’s intense urge had triggered a live replay of his memory. He was returning with his parents from his maternal grandmother’s house. On the way, they had sojourned for few hours at a temple in the village near Mathura.

He recalled that this Sadhu was sitting outside the temple. Taiji had given some food to the Sadhu, and Shriram had asked him whether he could see God. The Sadhu had responded with despair.

Then he had assured the latter that God would undoubtedly appear before him in this very land.

He looked at the Sadhu; now, his sight had an expression of recognition. The Sadhu seemed to be waiting for this moment. “So, you have recognized me?”

“Yeah…., what was the name of that village….?” - Shriram was trying to recall further.

“Mahavan…, Guruji! It was “Mahavan” village, Sadhu responded swiftly.

“OK! But now, you, please stand up and sit on a chair. Why are you treating me as your guru? I was a child at that time. I

Noble leaders choose: wisdom over wealth, knowledge over fame, understanding over honor, virtue over titles, and people over power. - Matshona Dhliwayo AKHAND JYOTI

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might have just said something casually.

It is by the grace of the Almighty that what I said turned out to be true. That does not mean that I had blessed you” Shriram tried to convince the Sadhu and gently pulled him up with the support of his hands.

“Don’t try to hide your divine power!” the Sadhu said, “Lord Govind Himself has conveyed to me that you are my guru. If you had not awakened me the other day, I would have still been roving blindly in search of the Almighty. I beg your mercy. Please accept my regards”.

He again tried to bow down in Shriram’s feet. But Shriram held his shoulders and told – “OK, Sanyasiji! If you are so firm on your faith and have regarded me as your guru, what difference should it make to you or anyone whether I accept or not?” He then asked – “What can I do for you now? By the way, what is your good name, please?”

“I have no name. I am only a devotee of God, a pathika (traveler) on the path leading to His absolute light. People call me by this name”. The Sadhu had now stood up. He said — ‘That Almighty has inspired me to call you as “Acharyashri” (noble teacher/guide). I can foresee that in future the entire world will address (know) you by this respectful title’.

“It is by the Will of God that the sagacious saints like Shankar (Adi Shankaracharya), Ramanuj, Madhava,

Nimbark, Kumaril, Ramanand, etc. have been honored with the title of “Acharya.” Their achara (character) and teachings have illuminated the lives of many devoted disciples and seekers of salvation.”

“That is very kind of you.” - Shriram said and asked him to tell the purpose of his visit today.

I want to give my guru-dakshina, please accept it as my contribution to your distinguished mission. With these words, the hermit opened his potali and took out three-four coins of 1 and 2 rupees. He gladly gave these to Shriram and then took out some soil telling “This is the pious soil of the temple of Govindji; it is the soil of the same place where I had found you. It should be mixed in the plaster prepared for the temple building that is under construction”. He mixed the soil in the paste that was being prepared by the mason working there.

“My sincere thanks and regards to you, Acharyashri, Gurudev!”

— The hermit was now ready to go back. Acharya (Shriram) was looking at him with surprise. He then said — “Sadhu Pathikji! Please do one more thing”.

The Sadhu looked back happily with an expression on his face as though he was eagerly awaiting to obey whatever his guru asked.

Along with the temple, we are also planning to have another important establishment here so that this center could be developed as a vibrant tirtha. As part of this, we would enshrine the sacred soil and water of 2400 tirthas. So next time when you come to this site, please again bring the pious soil and the water of Govindji’s temple. We shall enshrine it in the temple.

The hermit felt so satisfied and enthusiastic! After all, his revered Acharya had assigned some responsibility to him. It was so essential and delighting to him! He paid his regards and went out asking — now onwards, can I please address you

A life without noble cause is like a gun without bullet. - Atalay Aydın AKHAND JYOTI

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as “Acharyashri” or “Gurudev”? “Please let me do that...!”

Shriram responded only with a smile.

Collective Pledge and Cooperation The construction of Gayatri Tapobhumi was now progressing at a rapid pace. Indeed, as Shriram had told Mr. Birla, the tiny contributions from numerous donors from among the masses were behind this impetus. The episode of Shriram’s polite refusal of huge sums from an affluent businessman was not known to anyone except his close associates who were present on the Tapobhumi site the other day when Mr. J.K. Birla had come to visit Shriram. But his message that, like the construction of the divine bridge of Ramayana’s time, the Tapobhumi would be built with the help of the devoted masses had reached hundreds of people through his writings and speeches. The volunteers associated with this altruistic mission were expanding it further.

Soon the small donations of thousands of well-wishers started pouring in. There were many individual contributions of rupees eleven to twenty-one (almost equal to rupees hundred today); Shriram also sincerely acknowledged even the minuscule donations of one to two rupees.

The head of a prospering industrial house of Lucknow offered to build the residential portion of the Tapobhumi building on his expenses, saying that it was in the memory of his late mother. His family wanted that a stone-plaque should also be fixed in there, highlighting the souvenir-charity in her name. Shriram made it clear to them that the Ashram premises are not meant for any memorials. He reiterated in his magazines that even if it takes several more years to complete the proposed construction, Gayatri Tapobhumi will stand only on hard-earned funds through the support of the masses and will be developed only as a spiritual sadhana center. He also appealed to the potential donors not to make charity a medium of advertisement.

It was the summer of 1952. Seth Dina Bhai of Vadodara came to Mathura to meet Shriram. He came in contact with Shriram about three years ago and used to regard him as his spiritual guide (guru).

Shriram’s thoughts were quite progressive on social fronts too. He had also inspired and propagated many grass-root level reformative and constructive activities for the upliftment of the masses from the religious platform — these included eradicating superstitions and blind customs. Following his teachings, Dina Bhai did not want to give any feast in the name of the last rites of his mother, who had recently passed away. Instead, he wanted to spend that money on some good constructive work. Having read about the proposal and construction work of Gayatri Tapobhumi, he was convinced that the money should be used for this work only. So, he came to Mathura. His train reached on scheduled time around 6 am. He was eager to have darshan of his guru at the earliest but hesitated in going to Shriram’s house, thinking that disciples should only meet the guru for spiritual guidance and discussions and not stay in his home as guests. So, he remained in the waiting room, bathed there, and went to Ghiya Mandi at around 8 am.

The good things you do for others when nobody sees you make you a real star in the sky, a shining noble star beyond reach! - Mehmet Murat ildan AKHAND JYOTI

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When he reached there, Shriram greeted him with affection and asked about his journey. Finding that the train had arrived at the scheduled time, Shriram asked him why then he came so late.

“So, you stayed in the waiting room!

Why?” “Was this not your home? You should have come here directly!” — This scolding also expressed the warmth of his fatherly affection.

By that time, Mataji also came out of the kitchen. She had heard their conversation. “OK, you are excused this time, but don’t repeat this (mistake) in the future.” - She told Dina Bhai and asked him to sit. She also gave him fresh warm parathas and sabji in breakfast that she had just prepared. After this, he also was given a glass full of tasty lassi (a cold drink of buttermilk). It was really a fulfilling breakfast.

Shriram was ready to go to the Tapobhumi site. Dina Bhai also accompanied him.

While leaving the house, he paid respect to Mataji and gave her rupees one thousand, which he had brought from Vadodara to donate to the Taphobhumi work. Before she could ask anything, he requested, “Mataji, kindly keep it; I will let you know later; right now, I am going with Guruji.”

of near relatives), he wants to donate rupees one thousand for the Gayatri temple in the Tapobhumi. “No, this money was meant for the “mrityu-bhoj” as part of the last rites of your mother. Instead of giving it for a temple, you should use it for the service of the needy”. I understand your urge to contribute to our mission. But for that, you may donate later at your convenience. Right now, the money you have brought should be used to offer some help to the poor widows in Mathura. Many of them are discarded by their families and living a nomadic life helplessly. Your mother’s soul would contend if you could do something for them.”

Shriram and Dina Bhai returned to Akhand Jyoti Sansthan (Shriram’s house and the publication office of Akhand Jyoti) in the afternoon and collected the money that Dina Bhai had kept with Mataji. One thousand rupees was a huge amount those days! They could purchase a substantial amount of rice, pulses, wheat-floor, and oil, and some saris, and distributed these to the poor widows living in some makeshift shelters in Mathura and Vrindavan. (Readers might be aware that many widows hailing from villages or small towns of India survive on charities in Mathura and Vrindavan. After their husband’s death, either their family-members leave them here in the name of pilgrimage or being tortured by their in-laws, they themselves run away and take refuge here. Most of these windows come from Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. This might be perhaps because the devotion of Lord Krishna is more prevalent in these states).

Dina Bhai had to return to Gujarat the next day. Before leaving, he donated rupees fifty-one for the Tapobhumi project and pledged to mobilize people’s support in and around his hometown. ◙

On the way, Dina Bhai told Shriram that in place of “mrityu-bhoj” (feast given in the memory of departed soul

[To be Continued]

Let no man in the world live in delusion. Without a Guru, no one can cross over. - Guru Nanak AKHAND JYOTI

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Let Us Focus on Water Conservation

I

n the olden days, people settled down where there were water sources. But the situation is in total contrast today wherein people want to take water where they want to settle. Tall skyscrapers and apartments are good examples.

Nature had made arrangements for all people, whether they lived in the mountains or the plains. Clouds catered to those in the hills while ponds quenched the thirst of people in the plains. In arid places like Rajasthan, where the water level is very low, there was an arrangement for wells. Not only this, the crops that were harvested were also decided by nature. The place that had a short water supply focused on crops that required only rainwater, and places that had surface water opted for rice, wheat, and other grains. Today, we have dug so deep in the ground, searching for water that even wells are slipping away.

All this happened because we moved to a new paradigm where we focused on the distribution and utilization of water and not on its conservation.

We have succeeded in building a network of canals from the rivers but have not bothered to care for the water levels in the rivers themselves. As a result, many small and big rivers in the country are drying up. They are in no position to connect the water pathways. The apparent reason for this is the reduction in forest cover, which has resulted in losing the capacity to soak and retain rainwater. The other consequence is that we are facing conditions of overflooding too. Forests act as natural barriers and perform the primary function of holding water, and we are all seeing the consequences of their absence.

The volume and flow of water in rivers is significantly less than what was 50 years ago. The past processes ensured that the catchment areas had tree cover and the communities that lived in the surrounding area ensured its conservation. Forest laws have ended that relationship, and the Forest Department has been unsuccessful in teaching the importance of those traditional methods to people.

It is rivers that improve the groundwater table before they merge with the ocean. Receding water in the rivers has led to the crisis of groundwater availability too. In our culture, we have always worshipped water, trees, and land and have never abused them because it was considered sinful to do so. With shifting values, these elements of nature have been objectified and exploited extensively, which has resulted in the present crisis. Our traditions have always professed judicial use of resources, and ever since those tenets have been ignored, resources too are getting out of reach.

Thousands have lived without love, not one without water. – W. H. Auden AKHAND JYOTI

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Nature has always been indicating that utilization and conservation of water should go hand in hand.

We can do so only by resorting to traditional methods. Whatever water is available in nature, either through glaciers or rivers or ponds or wells, is obtained eventually from rainfall.

Showing indifference to conservation has led us to the present state of crisis. Science cannot create water miraculously. It can only explore options to obtain water by coming up with technologies to penetrate Earth’s depths. When the quality of water suffered, science came up with different kinds of purifiers. Then came the business of selling bottled water. Science has always focused on providing alternatives for obtaining resources rather than conserving what we have. Now, when science is perplexed not knowing how to handle the water crisis, we must lean on traditional techniques. These are challenging times for every village and household, and if we do not take this problem seriously, we can be assured that we can go anywhere, but water will not follow us there.

The economic development of a place is closely linked to water. A few years ago, a survey by FICCI showed that 60% of the companies believed that their business was

adversely affected due to the water crisis. According to Indian Council for Agriculture Research (ICAR), the per capita annual water availability declined to 1,508 cubic meters in 2014 from 5,177 cubic meters in 1951. The per capita water availability is estimated to fall further to 1,465 cubic meters by 2025 and 1,235 cubic meters by 2050. If it declines further to around 1,000-1,100 cubic meters, India could be declared a water-stressed country.

Water shortage has led to considerable losses in the tourism sector. If there is no water, there can be no tourism. There can be no industries since raw materials cannot be processed. In essence, a strong economy cannot be built in the absence of water. A survey done in 2016 by World Bank cautioned India that if water resources were not optimally utilized and conservation methods were not implemented, then the national GDP can fall below 6% by 2050. A recent study by NITI Aayog has revealed that cities with industrial centers will come to 0% groundwater levels by next year.

Agricultural Sector contributes 17% of our nation’s GDP. Punjab is the highest rice and wheat producing state of India, with its production at 35% for rice and 30% for wheat. The groundwater level of the state is decreasing by half a meter every year. The irrigation method followed is in which the field is filled with water. This is totally unnecessary. Like Israel, drip and sprinkler irrigation systems should be made more prevalent since it is most efficient in taking the water to the roots. Only then can we truly achieve ‘Per Drop More Crop.’ It is also essential to promote crops and variants that do not require much water. Four thousand five hundred liters of water is used in producing 1 Kg of rice, while wheat requires 2000 liters. So, in these circumstances, we should be alert and aware of water conservation and make the right choices while there is still time. ◙

Pure water is the world’s first and foremost medicine. – Slovakian Proverb AKHAND JYOTI

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Yug Geeta - 29

To Establish Dharma, I Manifest Myself Age after Age – II In the previous episode, we were discussing the process of Avatara and its purpose. In this context, a question arises – when this world is being administered simply by the desire of God, and His grace is properly running everything, what is the need for Incarnation? Lord answers this question in the eighth ïloka Paritr³ñ³ya s³dhun³® vin³ï³ya ca duÌk•t³m………… sa®bhav³mi yuge yuge (when there is a need, I incarnate to punish the wicked and help the righteous to establish Dharma).

Why? Because it is this process that accelerates the development of any society. Without the Incarnation, the process of establishment of Dharma is not possible.

The present context of the philosophy of Avatara is very mysterious. An essential principle of life has come out from Lord’s mouth in these two ïlokas (7/4 and 8/4). We may also say that Lord has purposefully explained this to all of us through Arjuna so that we may understand the possibility and aim of Avatara. A British historian, Arnold Toynbee, has written that the history of the world and that of rising and falling

of civilizations is nothing but the history of ‘challenge and response.’ The human race faced challenges right from the beginning of creation, and it was responding accordingly.

That is why it is surviving even today. This challenge could be physical, social, or religious/spiritual. When the challenge threatens the very survival of the existing system, some divine power, listening to the cry of the helpless, springs forth in the form of inner strength within them. They stand up to face the challenge boldly. This is the divine law. The same has been called Avatara by the Gita and Prophet by other religions.

The descent and ascent The abovementioned view was that of a western philosopher.

Now let us see what our great Yogi Maharshi Sri Aurobindo says about Avatarahood. In his book ‘Essays on the Gita’ (in the chapter on ‘The Possibility and Purpose of Avatarahood’), he writes- ‘… the upholding of Dharma in the world is not the only object of the descent of the Avatara, that great mystery of the Divine manifest in humanity; for the upholding of the Dharma is not an all-sufficient object in itself, not the supreme possible aim for the manifestation of a Christ, a Krishna, a Buddha, but is only the general condition of a higher aim and a more supreme and divine utility. For there are two aspects of the divine birth; one is a descent, the birth of God in humanity, the Godhead manifesting itself in the human form and nature, the eternal Avatara; the other is an ascent, the birth of man into the Godhead, a man rising into the divine nature and consciousness, madbh³vam ³gata¡; it is the being born anew in a second birth of the

When a person responds to the joys and sorrows of others as though they were his own, he or she has attained the highest spiritual union. – The Gita AKHAND JYOTI

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soul. It is that new birth that Avatarahood and the upholding of the Dharma are intended to serve. This double aspect in the Gita’s doctrine of Avatarahood is apt to be missed by the cursory reader satisfied, as most are, with catching a superficial view of its profound teachings, and it is missed too by the formal commentator petrified in the rigidity of the schools. Yet, it is necessary, surely, to the whole meaning of the doctrine. Otherwise, the Avatara idea would be only a dogma, a popular superstition, or an imaginative or mystic deification of historical or legendary supermen, not what the Gita makes all its teaching, a deep philosophical and religious truth and an essential part of or step to the supreme mystery of all, rahasyam uttamam. …..The Avatara comes as the manifestation of the divine nature in the human nature, the apocalypse of its Christhood, Krishnahood, Buddhahood, in order that the human nature may by molding its principle, thought, feeling, action, being on the lines of that Christhood, Krishnahood, Buddhahood transfigure itself into the Divine.

The law, the Dharma which the Avatara establishes, is given for that purpose chiefly; the Christ, Krishna, or Buddha stands in its center as the gate, he makes through himself the way men shall follow. That is why each Incarnation holds before men his own example and declares of himself that he is the way and the gate; he declares too the oneness of his humanity with the divine being.’

It is not possible to understand the interpretation of ‘Avatara’ unless one understands its relation with other ïlokas of other chapters of the Gita. Let us first move to the change of subject that has abruptly come from chapter 3 to 4. In the last ïloka of chapter 3, Lord says, ‘Jahi ïatru® mah³b³ho k³mar¿pa® dur³sadam’ (O mighty-armed Arjuna, steady the mind by self-realization and conquer this insatiable enemy in the form of lust). We have already discussed the three doors to hell - lust, greed, and anger - in Part 1 of Yug Gita. The task of saving a person from trespassing these doors and uplifting

him is done by Avatara only. That is why in the fourth chapter, the increase of immorality/malpractice and decline in morality/civility has been said to be the biggest tragedy of humanity. Its only remedy is the Incarnation of Avatara.

Similarly, in the eleventh ïloka of the ninth chapter, Lord says, ‘Avaj³nanti m³® m¿Ãh³ m³nu̺® tanum³ïritam | Para® bh³vam aj³nanto mama bh¿ta -maheïvaram || (Fools disregard Me, in My divine human form, unable to comprehend My supreme nature as the Ultimate Controller of all living beings.) It would be better if we keep these thoughts in mind and understand the divine birth and divine work of the Lord.

The Gita expresses at one place (61/18) - “Within the hearts of all living entities, resides the Supreme Lord, and by the potency of illusory energy (Maya) orchestrates the movements of all living beings like figurines on a carousel.” This secret working of the Lord hidden in the heart from the egoistic nature-consciousness through which he works is God’s universal method with creatures. Why then should we suppose that in any form he comes forward into the frontal, the phenomenal consciousness for more direct and consciously divine action?

Sri Aurobindo answers this question, ‘(He incarnates) to break the veil

Do everything you have to, but not with greed, not with ego, not with lust, not with envy but with love, compassion, humility and devotion. – The Gita AKHAND JYOTI

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between himself and humanity which man limited in his own nature could never lift.’

Avatara is Eternal Leader The word Avatara means a descent; it is a coming down of the Divine below the line which divides the Divine from the human world or status. Through the medium of ‘sa®bhav³mi yuge yuge,’ Lord calls upon Arjuna, the human soul, the type of the highest human being, a Vibhuti, to arise; but he can do so only by climbing out of the ignorance and limitation of his ordinary humanity.

Sri Aurobindo has elsewhere written, ‘Avatara does not come as an enchanting magician. Instead, he appears as an Eternal Leader of humanity and as an exemplar of Eternal man.’ What a clear explanation of Avatara! So far, we have interpreted Avatarahood in complex wordings. Now let us see the straightforward interpretation of ‘Avatara’ in the words of Pujya Gurudev. In the August 1979 issue of Akhand Jyoti (Hindi) magazine (a special issue on Pragyavatara), Gurudev writes – ‘Once in a while, in every era, some such circumstances are developed when saints, reformers and martyrs feel helpless to tackle them.

On such occasions, the valor of Avatara takes over and changes the complexion of the game; the impossiblelooking task becomes possible. This has been going on for ages when humanity faced unsurmountable problems; this will happen in the future too.’

Saint, Reformer, and Martyr Pujya Gurudev writes further (on page 5), ‘When human endeavor falters, then before falling, the hands of the Creator are seen to show the miracle of balancing things. This is the play of Incarnation of the Creator.’ Similarly, on page 7, he mentions, ‘Universal powers are subtle and invisible. Their

field of action is the hidden world.

Avatara of Supreme Being descends to remove the imbalance and transform the era. He gets it done through such pious souls who possess accumulated divine impressions.’

Pujya Gurudev has categorized humans with an evolved consciousness into three categories: saint, reformer, and martyr.

He defined a saint as a noble person who exemplars good conduct and virtuous character. The reformer is in the higher category, where he not only refines himself but also struggles with evil tendencies prevalent in society. A martyr sacrifices everything for the benefit of the masses. Gurudev writes - when the ratio of these three categories of people begins to rise, it should be understood that Supreme Consciousness is going to incarnate. He considers it to be the evidence of Avatara.

[To be continued] Note: This is the translation of the Hindi version of ‘Yug Gita’ (Part 2)

by Dr. Pranav Pandya, published by Sri Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Shantikunj, Haridwar (2011) “The secret to living well and longer is this: eat half, walk double, laugh triple, and love without measure.”

- Tibetan Proverb

A man is made by his beliefs. As he believes. So he becomes. – The Gita AKHAND JYOTI

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Realize the Value of Time and Utilize it Wisely

E

veryone gets exactly 24 hours.

In these hours, some persons do such things as fall in the category of miracle, while many piddle it away and keep complaining of the lack of time. Normally we are unable to grasp the value of time. When things are happening alright, the time passes without anyone noticing it. But when matters take a bad turn, we begin to see the value of time.

In trying circumstances, time looks precious. All activities which were hitherto nothing but a waste of time now begin to disappear from the priority list. Those who do not value time in such exacting moments too suffer tension, anxiety and may even descend into depression. An example from daily life would be apposite here.

When undertaking a journey, the value of time is very much apparent. One is very alert lest the train, bus, or airplane might be missed because of any delay.

Similar is the case with the journey of life. Every successive stage in life is like a test/examination. Those who perform their duty diligently by proper employment of time enjoy life with

a comforting feeling of satisfaction. But those who are casual in these moments and fritter away time in laziness and slothfulness are themselves destroyed by time. This may appear a blunt statement, but it is the truth. One who wastes the golden period of life in meaningless activities suffers the consequences in the latter part of life. His life becomes an arduous journey of dissatisfaction and disquiet.

This being so, it does not carry much weight when one complains about lack of money, fame, and tranquility. When no attention was paid to the originating source of these assets and attributes in time, there is no use grumbling about it now.

The real asset indeed is time. If one had realized its value and utilized it properly, other assets would have followed automatically. So, whoever has grasped the significance of time, which is slipping away every moment and learned to utilize it fruitfully, has managed to win over the ‘kaal’ to his side.

In the flow of time, man is quite unmindful that the end of life is coming nearer and nearer with every passing moment.

The countdown of life is going on. Water is leaking from the pitcher drop by drop. One day it will become empty.

Similarly, every breath we take is chipping away at the assigned block of life and taking us toward the end. This is the eternal truth.

If this truth is understood and every moment is put to fair use, it would be real sadhana of the kaal (time) and aradhana (worship) of the Mahakaal (time spirit). But instead of doing this, merely going to temples and worshipping earthly

Lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem. We all have twenty-four hour days. - Zig Ziglar AKHAND JYOTI

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symbols of the divine and believing that this is everything is a mistake.

If we look around, we can see that every atom of the creation honors the time and gives some message to us. Every component of the universe follows a time schedule - the earth, the moon, the sun, the stars, and the seasons - all are in motion according to a set pattern. There is not the slightest deviation. It is only the man who habitually deviates from nature’s discipline and then complains when adverse consequences follow.

If we had followed the divinely ordained Law, our daily routine would not be haphazard. Sleeping, waking, and eating would be on time and in accordance with nature. A healthy body and a happy mind would be our prized possession. But alas! This is not so. We have no respect for time. And hence our routine is disorderly, our food habits undisciplined, and our life pattern reckless. As a result, we invite diseases and infirmities. We lose our physical fitness and mental ability.

Life becomes de-energized and dull.

It is wise to consider lethargy as the most serious shortcoming, the root cause of all ailments. It not only makes the body diseased but also depletes the strength of the mind. The man is condemned to lead a life of penury, misery, and frustration. Laziness causes a person to adopt dilatory tactics and to postpone every task to tomorrow.

This ‘not today but tomorrow’ syndrome wastes a lot of time. Swett Marden writes, “In the pages of history, no one knows how many necks were guillotined at the sharp edge of tomorrow. Innumerable projects remained unfinished, and myriad resolves were deserted midway, countless persons were left repenting.” Tomorrow is a symbol of incompetence and laziness; today represents animation and liveliness. What Sant Kabir said is very much the ‘mantra’

to be diligently followed:

“Kaal kare so aaj kar, aaj kare so ab, Pal me pralaya hoyegi, bahuri karega kab .”

[Do today what is to be done tomorrow; do now what is to be done today. The world might just come to an end; what then would you be able to do?]

To derive maximum benefit of time, it is essential that only one task is taken up at a time. A multi-tasking person is hardly able to do justice to any of the tasks. Much of his time goes to waste, and he is always saddled with unfinished work. Secondly, whatever you take up, complete it yourself; thrusting the work to another’s care is akin to postponing the work.

Constant labor leads to fatigue. This is natural. Whenever you feel tired, take some rest but do not be lazy; otherwise, you will miss the opportunity. Laziness is the enemy of time and also of ability.

In the words of Ruskin, just as there is no use hammering the iron when it has got cold, the man’s effort too goes in vain after the right time has passed.

One should form the habit of regularly doing one’s work in time. When this habit is formed, one begins to enjoy the work, and at the same time, there is

The common man is not concerned about the passage of time, the man of talent is driven by it. - Arthur Schopenhauer AKHAND JYOTI

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a remarkable increase in work efficiency.

Experts of different fields believe that a person who regularly invests one hour daily in a subject can become an expert of that subject and can acquire great capability in that particular field. But for this to happen, one should keep a distance from such friends and acquaintances who are idlers themselves. Of late, another obstacle in the form of a smartphone has come up; one needs to be vigilant about the vice-like grip of its allure too.

At this juncture of time, we all are passing through the grave crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic. People are literally imprisoned in their houses.

Most are feeling bored, and some are even depressed. But this precisely is also an opportunity to develop an understanding of the proper use of time. If we can accomplish that, these burdensome moments can turn out to be a boon. So many works can be initiated or taken to fruition during this time.

Students and teachers can learn new languages. They can enhance their technical knowledge and competence. They can refine their communication skills; they can add a whole lot more to their pool of expertise in fields of their choice. A minimum program of health improvement can be added too.

Self-study and sadhana can be refined and taken to a higher level. The tasks which remained pending for a shortage of time can be accelerated and completed. More time can be spent with family members, and one can enjoy some finest moments of life with them. Thus, in a way, this phase is a time of test to see how much we can realize the value of time and how fruitfully we utilize it.

There was a man who was highly successful in his profession and had gathered a lot of wealth. Everybody respected him, and he was a source of inspiration to all his friends and relatives. When he was taking his last breathes, his relatives and friends were around him. One of them asked, “Please give us some valuable lesson from your life.”

The dying man said, “I’ll give you a lesson, but I require some more time for that. I am running out of time, so please take all my wealth and buy some extra time for me.”

The person replied, “It is not possible to buy time even if we use all the resources of this world.”

The man said, “So, realize the value of time that cannot be bought by anything.”

Jon Taffer has rightly said, ‘Whether you complain that you are overworked and overextended or you believe that other people, obligations, or competing loyalties are forcing you to postpone or cancel your own aspirations or dreams, you’re basically saying one thing: you are inefficient. Yes, it’s your fault. ….you can change that.’

By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. – Benjamin Franklin AKHAND JYOTI

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Amrit Vani

Worship the Deity of the Power of Your Physical Body (English version of some excerpts of a discourse — continued from the previous issue)

In the previous part of this series of articles on some elementary aspects of the Pancakoïa S³dhan³, we introduced the Panca Koïas with eloquent explanations given

by Gurudev, Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. We also learned about the importance of self-restraint over the tongue and other sensory organs as part of the awakening and fully utilizing the immense potentials of our physical body (manifested ‘deity’ of the annamaya koïa). Continuing with these aspects, he has also narrated some motivating real-life examples and provided practical guidance. These are highlighted in the present article.

Sisters and Brothers, Hard work with keen interest carries more value than the haphazard completion of a task. Almost all birds make nests to lay their eggs and protect their newborn babies; it is common for them. But look at the nest of a Baya (weaver/tailor bird)! It is so nicely crafted, spacious and well-planned for different seasons! Its beauty often cheers up the viewers like the beauty of the blossoming flower of rose.

These artistic nests, made up of dry grass, are strong as well; they would continue to stay strong and beautiful even long after the bird has deserted it.

So much so that people hang them in

their homes as decorative artifacts! In a way, the weaver bird teaches us the importance of doing even routine things with interest, doing every job in the best possible manner.

As I told you earlier, indriya-sa®yam and manoyoga lay the foundation of the s³dhan³ of annamaya koïa. Indriyasa®yam (self-restraint over sensory passions) is essential to protect the vitality and efficiency of our sensory organs and other faculties of our physical body. Manoyoga (mental focus with keen interest) is crucial for worthy success and recognition of physical labor. Let me tell you a real-life story as evidence of the significance and worth of physical work, howsoever small it might be, done with whole-hearted interest and sincerity.

Work Sincerely with Keen Interest: Long ago, in the late 19th Century, a boy named Tomáš (anglicized as “Thomas”) lived in a little town of Zlin (in Austria-Hungry, now in the Czech Republic). His was

Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't. - Steve Maraboli AKHAND JYOTI

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a cobbler’s family. He tragically lost his mother when he was only ten years old. After separation from his father at the early age of 14, he worked in a shoemaking company in some other town for some time; he left it and moved to Vienna, where his elder sister Anna lived. He wanted to start his own business. As he had keenly observed his father’s cobbling work and learned the basics of cobbling, he started shoe-repairing in Vienna. Usually, the cobblers would repair only that part or patch of the shoe, which is torn or damaged, but Thomas would stitch the entire shoe to minimize the risk of further damage. He considered his work as worship; he loved to work hard and do an excellent job. He used to repair/re-stitch a shoe so finely that the customers would feel like a new shoe.

Looking at his age and the quality of his work, many customers tried to pay him extra money, but he humbly refused and requested that if they liked his work, they should also recommend his name to others in their acquaintance.

His politeness and speech were also so sweet that no one could refuse his request. His onetime customers also ‘sort’ of became his ‘advertising agent’ free-of-cost. (Just recall how you speak to people! Especially when you are too busy!

Some of you might get irritated and speak bitterly; some might even start quarreling; in such situations, your tongue would work like scorpion’s thaw).

Because of his excellent cobbling work, honesty, and mannerism, Thomas’s career continued to grow. The number of his customers increased in a very short time.

With growing income, he opened a small shop and started making new shoes; he used to put in the best of his skills and creative imagination and used to do his job honestly, with full mental concentration and great interest. Demand for his shoes continued to grow. He made it a prestige point that the quality of the shoes he makes would be foolproof,

irrespective of how much profit or loss is incurred.

As his business expanded, he hired some employees/assistants. During this period, he did face some shortterm financial crises due to a rise in the price of leather. However, instead of borrowing a loan, he tried making shoes of Canvas. This innovation was a great beginning in the footwear industry.

Customers found the canvas shoes very comfortable and less expensive. Above all, the quality of shoes he made was so good that his products became the first choice of most customers. The full name of this distinguished self-made manufacturer was Tomáš Jan Baťa (Thomas J. Bata). He returned to his birthplace and founded the “T. & A. Baťa Shoe Company” in association with his sister Anna and half-brother Antonin in 1894. This same company is now the famous Bata Corporation — a grand multinational footwear and fashion accessory manufacturing and retailing company. This, as you might know, is regarded as the largest of the footwear companies, with more than five thousand branches/retail centers across the globe.

So you see how the combination of diligence, sincerity, and whole-hearted efforts can overcome all hurdles and adversities and culminate into magical

All our knowledge begins with the senses, proceeds then to the understanding, and ends with reason. There is nothing higher than reason. - Immanuel Kant AKHAND JYOTI

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success? This is what amounts to the blessing, the boon of the devat³ called the Annamaya Koïa.

The annamaya koïa would awaken and manifest god’s power and grace (or, in other words, it would become a devat³) only via these three endeavors: the first one is - honesty, sincerity; second is -responsibility, i.e., taking interest in the work, doing it wholeheartedly; and the third is — diligence, hard work. Many of you deploy neither of the three; your attempts are only superficial; thus, you remain deprived of the desired success or positive outcomes.

Because of your irregularities (especially, in timings of taking meals, sleeping time, etc.), uncontrolled greed of your tongue for junk food, your cravings for lustful instinctive pleasures and sensory joys, and your imbalanced work-habits, sooner or later you are bound to suffer the punishment of Nature.

I am sorry to say this, but I find that the people who do nothing to restrain their sensory passions, lustful tendencies, their greed of tongue are worse than the beasts. They should learn something from the wild animals that never disobey the rules/disciplines set for them by Nature.

For you, the annamaya koïa cannot become a devat³; it is, in fact, not even a good assistant or tool for many of you. Instead, because of varieties of weaknesses and sickness, it becomes a burden on you soon after its youthful years (when Nature lends significant support and energy). You keep cursing your stars, your fate, but don’t realize that it is not the fault of destiny, but the apparent penalty/punishment of Nature for your misuse and abuse of the physical body and its precious faculties. You do nothing to protect its fitness and to keep it energized.

How many of you still have the spark of pr³ña (life-force, vital spiritual energy) reflecting in the glow of your skin, your eyes, your enthusiasm, your courage, and your selfconfidence? It is pathetic to see that you have let this nectar burnt out in your inconsumable physical and mental passions.

Lack of pr³ña, lack of self-restraint, together with cravings for a luxurious, comfort-driven lifestyle, and your lethargy/ negligence of doing adequate regular physical exercises, are by and large the major causes of the common health problems and the so-called lifestyle diseases. The healthhazards that you find ‘common’ around you (especially in the urban/semi-urban families) include acidity, constipation, peptic ulcer, backache, headache, fluctuating blood pressure, frequent occurrence of cold, weak immunity, weak eyesight, lack of hearing capacity, weak memory, etc. Psychosomatic disorders and diseases like diabetes, high lipid profile, and consequent cardiac risks, also seem to have become somewhat common in some sections of our society. Pressure/ stress or tension of demanding jobs and deadlines are there, but a lot depends on how you tackle it! It can be managed efficiently with a righteous outlook, positive thinking, and the teachings and practices of yoga.

Even if you are healthy at present, please listen to my words as a warning:

It is high time you realize that it is solely your responsibility to improve your health, to keep your mind-body system fit.

You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you. - Brian Tracy

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Your mind-body system is like an all-capable device gifted by the Almighty to you since birth, but what did you do to it? Wake up now! Do something to (re)gain better health by proper diet control and balanced physical exercises; transform your lifestyle, your outlook towards yourself, life, duties, and work habits. Have faith in your good qualities, your inherent potentials, strive to reawaken the force of your pr³ña, be positive, keep fit, keep working with a scrupulous attitude. Work need not always be for some paid job; if you have the will, you will find lots of opportunities to help others and offer your selfless services. Cultivate a positive outlook, alertness, righteous thinking, discipline, and healthy habits in your family members (especially your youngsters), too; collectively, you all will nurture a healthy ambiance and support for each other.

If you pay attention and follow the advice above, your physical strength and the potentials of your mind-body system will augment many times. King Vikramaditya of Ujjayini is glorified in Indian History for his unparalleled valor, intelligence, and apt administration. It is said that he alone was equivalent to five intrepid warriors. This is why he is said to have had the company of five great warriors (panca vºras) all the time, who could win every battle for him, could follow his every order, could do anything for the welfare of his kingdom. These were like what I would call the five devat³s that beatify the life of a devotee who worships the god of annamaya koïa, through sa®yam (self-restraint, self-discipline), and diligent perseverance with ºm³nd³rº (honesty, sense of responsibility, sincerity), and manoyoga (wholeheartedness, scrupulousness).

I am not talking about sublime gods existing in the higher or transcended planes. For me, this devat³, who is evident, whose presence is real, whose blessings and boons can be obtained and verified in this very life, is more important.

The method of whose worship and devotion is also time-tested like the methods of scientific experiments. I am not interested in talking about any imaginary or occult knowledge. For me, siddhis (supernormal attainments) of any s³dhan³ are worth only if they are for the present life. What is the point if they would be effective in some sublime realm or some future life? For me, spirituality is true like science, the effects of which can be verified. I believe in doing things in a feasible manner, the outcome of which can be tested. Indeed, the s³dhan³ of annamaya koïa perfectly satisfies all these criteria; I have myself completed this s³dhan³ and experienced its great siddhis (To be continued in the next issue) Notes:*His preeminent saintly life and the sagacious nature and monumental volume of his time-tested works on multiple fronts of spiritual, scholarly, and altruistic domains of massenlightenment, social upliftment, and holistic development stand as evidential testimony to this fact.

‘If people are good only because they fear punishment and hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.’

- Albert Einstein

The sign of intelligent people is their ability to control their emotions by the application of reason. - Marya Mannes AKHAND JYOTI

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Difficulties are the Golden Opportunities for Self-Refinement

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uman life is a flow, which has its own attributes and complexities. It has certain animal instincts; even the traits of demonic temperament find expression every now and then. At the same time, it is also endowed with divine potentials, which are reflected in its desire for attaining completeness.

Amidst all this, humane sentiments keep motivating it to live and work as a productive component of the family and society.

In this way, a person is a strange blend of humanity, divinity, animality, and demonhood.

The proportion of these aspects determine his nature and destiny.

So, his conduct and behavior are shaped accordingly. The outstanding quality of man is that

he can transcend his lower nature and attain his divine form. He can rise with double bounce even on falling; he possesses the power to move forward while sliding along the path. He is capable of living with humane sentiments, despite his occasional demonic impulses.

He has the caliber of leading a spiritual life while crossing all human limitations and infirmities. The path leading from animalism to humanity is there for him, which may transform him into the Omnipotent.

To do this, he should try to analyze where he stands in life honestly, find out his actual position, and then make endeavors to move forward. As much as a person accepts the truth of life, he begins to get liberated from within in the same proportion. On the contrary, obstinacy, perversion, and stubbornness about one's half-truth put an end to all these possibilities. This attitude restricts human life's infinite potentials.

To bring a person out of this situation, God's justice system performs its function from time to time by putting him into some odd circumstances. So, he passes

True Forgiveness A hot-headed young man challenged Sir Walter Raleigh of England. In those days, denying the challenge was looked down upon by society. Sir Walter Raleigh found that man to be an amateur, so he coolly refused to fight. The young man got upset and spit on his face in public. Sir Walter took out his handkerchief and, calmly wiping his face, said, “Young man! If I could as easily wipe your blood from my conscience as I can this spit from my face, I would this moment, take your life.”

Out of difficulties grow miracles. - Jean de la Bruyere AKHAND JYOTI

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through tribulations. This may seem to be atrocious and ruthless legislation of God, but behind it is His intention of infinite compassion and well-being.

is forced to bear now and then the sting of the tragedy of not facing his truth.

In this way, every odd turn and dejection or affliction of life makes us aware of our shortcomings and motivates us to move towards perfectness. Every failure comes to remind us of our faults or mistakes of the past to be conscious and overcome them in due course. But, if one fails to understand these indications of nature and keeps sticking to his stubbornness, even this sympathetic system of God becomes a curse. This makes the riddle of life even more complicated. Life becomes a flaring fire of endless sorrows, suffering, pain, abuse, and miseries. In such a situation, the possibilities of spiritual life are far from manifesting; the person even loses the dignity of human life. In essence, the person

Therefore, please do not run away from challenges, difficulties, or ordeals as they come, but consider them an opportunity for your refinement. Face your truth with courage, no matter how painful it may be. Consider it as your wellwisher and understand the divine message in it and learn the lesson it teaches. This is the highway to inner progress and external development. ◙

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I say to life, “You are very hard,” and I also say: “We are blind, we prefer to be blind. It is easier...”. Life has to be hard to affect us; even now, we hardly notice it. Beyond that, can one go? I must. I add, “We are also blind to the miracles of good that come to us. We hardly heed them, we even protest against them”. Then I am left where I was, appalled by the hardness of life, knowing we are forced to be unwilling heroes. Suddenly I wonder - is all hardness justified because we are so slow in realizing that life was meant to be heroic? Greatness is required of us. That is life’s aim and justification, and we poor fools have for centuries been trying to make it convenient, manageable, pliant to our will. It is also peaceful and tender and funny and dull. Yes, all that.

- Florida Scott-Maxwell Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish. - John Quincy Adams AKHAND JYOTI

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MARCH-APRIL. 2021