The Concepts of Reincarnation in Hinduism ( पुनर्जन्म का सिद्धांत)

The science of birth and death which is briefly mentioned in the vedas is explained in Upanisads and thoroughly expanded in the puranas. This condition of living entity is called Samsara (Material existence). The word samsara (cycle of birth or rebirth) appears more than thousand times in various vedic scriptures. 

The ancient Vedic people belived in an afterlife and spiritworld. The Vedic recycling is beautifully explained in Rigveda - once dead, one’s “life” is indeed transferred to new system, in earth, sky or waters. (RV 10.16.3) But is that “reincarnation”? No, it is a mere recycling of the constituents of the body, that become the life-promoting cells in another part in this earth. 

Rebirth is conditioned and driven by the doctrine of Karma. Several verses of the Rig Veda speak of rebirth (punarjanam), 

 

पुनर्नः सोमस्तन्वं ददातु पुनः पूषापथ्यां या सवस्तिः || 

शं रोदसी सुबन्धवे यह्वी रतस्य मातरा | (Rigveda 10.59.7)

Once again give me this earth, once again the sky and universe, once again this land blessed by the moon, once again this land of plenty.

In the cremated place of the dead person, the plants kiyambu, pakadurva and the vyalkaśa are asked to grow, and in the chill environment, Nachiketa asked to live again. (RV 10.16.14) There is no reason for us to believe that this birth has anything got to do with karma, or karmic recycling of “soul”.

The life once lost, is lost forever to “Time”. (Yama) There, these “souls” continue to inspire and instigate the humans of later generation. 

My dear King Yudhiṣṭhira, when oblations of ghee and food grains like barley and sesame are offered in sacrifice, they turn into celestial smoke, which carries one to successively higher planetary systems like the kingdoms of Dhuma, Ratri, Kṛiṣṇapakṣa, Dakṣiṇam and ultimately the moon. 

Then, however, the performers of sacrifice descend again to earth to become herbs, creepers, vegetables and food grains. These are eaten by different living entities and turned to semen, which is injected into female bodies. Thus one takes birth again and again. (Srimat Bhagavata 7.15.50-51)

ते तं भुक्त्वा स्वर्गलोकं विशालं क्षीणे पुण्ये मर्त्यलोकं विशन्ति ।

एवं त्रयीधर्ममनुप्रपन्ना गतागतं कामकामा लभन्ते ॥ Gita 9:21॥

When they have thus enjoyed heavenly sense pleasure, they return to this mortal planet again. Thus, through the Vedic principles, they achieve only flickering happiness. There are other verses in the Bhagavata Gita that talk of rebirth - 2.27, 4.7.

न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचि नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूय: |

अजो नित्य: शाश्वतोऽयं पुराणो न हन्यते हन्यमाने शरीरे || (Gita 2:20)

The soul is neither born, nor does it ever die; nor having once existed, does it ever cease to be. The soul existence in the womb, birth, growth, procreation, diminution, and death (अस्ति, जायते, वर्धते, विपरिणामते, अपक्षीयते और विनिश्यति). It is not destroyed when the body is destroyed.

Reincarnation is fact that is corroborated in vedas, many people argue that in the vedas it is very hard to find a clear statement concerning reincarnation, but science of reincarnation is clearly mentioned.

आ त एतु मनः पुनः क्रत्वे दक्षाय जीवसे । 

ज्योक्च सूर्यं दृशे (Rig Veda 10.57.4)

 May your spirit return again, to perform pure acts for exercising strength, and to live long to see the sun.

So here in above mantra it is stated that soul moves from one body to another. Reincarnation is also mentioned in the Rig veda 10.58.1-12 and Yajur veda 19.47.

 Kaṭha Upaniṣad 1.3.7 states: One, however, who has no insight, who has no control over the mind (and is) ever impure, reaches not that goal but returns to samsara (cycle of birth, rebirth).

Chandogya Upanishad which is part of Samaveda talks about rebirth. Samsara is therefore not the invention of some pandits but it's the conditional state in which rebellious souls are put into. To get freed from this pressure of birth, death, diseases and old age one must surrender unto supreme Lord, the only deliverer of material existence.

Rig Veda 10.16 has a prayer to God Agni. The dead person should be sent to the forefathers. Let him take a rebirth and increase his offspring.

Rig Veda 10.59 has a prayer requesting the Gods to give good sight and other organs in next birth. He who is the support of both the unmanifested prakrti and the jiva, who is the Lord of the three gunas and who is the cause of bondage, existence and liberation from samsara, is verily the creator of the universe, the knower, the inmost self of all things and their source, the omniscient Lord, the author of time, the possessor of virtues, the knower of everything. (Shvetasvatara Upaniṣad 6.16)

 The earliest reference to the doctrine of rebirth is found in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 4:1:3; Just as a worm coming to the end of a blade of grass reaches out and takes hold of another and draws itself forward, in the same manner an embodied jiva withdrawing from this physical body makes the transition to another body.

Atomic matter of the universe is associated with consciousness - consciousness is not an epi-phenomena of the brain - i.e. the brain doesn’t produce consciousness, it is inherent in the universe. The body is constantly changing - the body you have today is not the same body you had last year or when you were born - every cell changes, the whole system is constantly being upgraded and modified. Yet throughout all these changes the flow of consciousness remains - observing and noting the changes.

 This witnessing consciousness is the Self with is obviously different to the body. The body is like the hardware and the subconscious mind (soul) is like the software. Amputation of a limb or limbs or physical disability or impairment doesn’t diminish one’s sense of Self. So Conscious Self and body are experienced as different - one limited and the other unlimited. Every baby is born with preconditioning, no one is born with a blank slate for a mind. The baby already has an individual disposition, like, dislikes, abilities, talents etc. Some elements can be ascribed to gene /DNA.

 And some of us can even remember our past lives. There are hundreds of remarkable accounts of past lives by credible subjects which tally with known facts. Out of Body Experiences or Near Death Experiences confirm the doctrines of rebirth as taught in the Hindu Scriptures. 

Most of our texts, not just the shruti speak of rebirth. These are not applicable to humans alone, but it is a universal principle, just as all other principles of the collection of customs and traditions known as Hinduism, many of the constructs of the revealed knowledge of our sages is still beyond science. But as science and human knowledge progress in time, we will understand these better. 

Ancient Hindu scriptures reveal that humans are just 25% matter (prakriti) and 75% subtle energy (purusha). And from the fundamental theory of nature, our subtle energy doesn’t change right through our life. 

Take any concept of Hinduism, and they will be eternal principles - varna, triguna, karma, purusha, prakriti - they are applicable to every “living” thing in the universe, as well as the universe itself. In fact the texts describe the universe as an embryo, that will have a fixed life, die and be reborn.

Yajurveda 4.15 has a prayer requesting for a good and healthy life in the next life. It also has a request to preserve us from misfortune and dishonor.

Yajurveda 19.47 mentions that there are two paths for the soul. One path leads to rebirth and other one frees the soul from cycle of birth and death.

Atharvaveda 7.67 has a prayer requesting for a healthy sense, possessions, knowledge, wealth and prosperity in next life.

 This knowledge of the living entity's cycle of birth and death is given in the four Vedas, the Upanisads, the puranas and indeed all vedic scriptures. To deny this science is a sign of ignorance that put one on same level with animals.

 In the Chhandogya Upanisad (5.10.5-8) there are some verses that describe when one leaves the body. There's a specific path that he takes to go to heaven (Sat-Chit-Ananda). Having dwelt in the moon planet till the exhaustion of their pious results. They return again by the same path as they came. They come to Akasha (sky), from Akasha to air. Having become air, they become smoke, having become smoke they become the white cloud.

Having become the white cloud, they become the rain-bearing cloud. They then fall as rain and are born in this world as rice and barley, herbs and trees, sesamum and beans. But the release from these is more difficult, for whoever eats the food and sows the seed, they become like him only.

Among them, those who have good residual results of action quickly reach a good womb, the womb of a Brahmana, of a ksatriya or of a vaisya. But those who have bad residual results of action quickly reach an evil womb, the womb of a chaṇḍala.

From the highest planet in the material world down to the lowest, all are places of misery wherein repeated birth and death take place. But one who attains to My abode, O son of Kunti, never takes birth again. 

बहूनां जन्मनामन्ते ज्ञानवान्मां प्रपद्यते |

वासुदेव: सर्वमिति स महात्मा सुदुर्लभ: ll (Gita 7:19)

After many births and deaths, he who is actually in knowledge surrenders unto Me, knowing Me to be the cause of all causes and all that is. Such a great soul is very rare.

आब्रह्मभुवनाल्लोकाः पुनरावर्तिनोऽर्जुन।

मामुपेत्य तु कौन्तेय पुनर्जन्म न विद्यते।। Gita 8.16।।

Why one does not remember his previous birth?

As per Mahabharat, Ashwamedhik Parva (17.17-18-19)

ततः स वेदनः सद्यो जीवः प्रच्यवते क्षरन्।

शरीरं त्यजते जन्तुश्छिद्यमानेषु मर्मसु।

वेदनाभिः परीतात्मा तद्विद्धि द्विजसत्तम॥१७॥

जातीमरणसंविग्नाः सततं सर्वजन्तवः।

दृश्यन्ते सन्त्यजन्तश्च शरीराणि द्विजर्षभ॥१८॥ 

गर्भसङ्क्रमणे चापि मर्मणामतिसर्पणे।

तादृशीमेव लभते वेदनां मानवः पुनः॥१९॥

Due to deep intense pain of birth and death, one's memory of that pain is destroyed, therefore we tend to forget our previous birth.

As per Bhagvat Puran (3.31.23-24-25)

तेनावसृष्ट: सहसा कृत्वावाक्शिर आतुर: ।

विनिष्क्रामति कृच्छ्रेण निरुच्छ्‌वासो हतस्मृति: ॥ २३ ॥

पतितो भुव्यसृङ्‌मिश्र: विष्ठाभूरिव चेष्टते ।

रोरूयति गते ज्ञाने विपरीतां गतिं गत: ॥ २४ ॥

परच्छन्दं न विदुषा पुष्यमाणो जनेन स: ।

अनभिप्रेतमापन्न: प्रत्याख्यातुमनीश्वर: ॥ २५ ॥

He loses his superior knowledge and cries under the spell of Maya. After coming out of the abdomen, the child is given to the care of persons who are unable to understand what he wants, and thus he is nursed by such persons. Unable to refuse whatever is given to him, he falls into undesirable circumstances.

The lifestyle determines the Karma or the internal action, and hence, as per Hindu philosophy (beliefs) that the good or bad actions of life foster the positive or negative merits for the rebirth of the soul. If our actions are good with sense of humanity for society / nature (evolution process), then there may be a chance to have rebirth as humans again to guide society as Guru / mentor/ leader / social Changer or if we failed to do good Karma, then the soul may come back as an animal and the process of rebirth goes on until and unless the taste of life / learning / sense of nature completed.

 In Hinduism, it is commonly believed that if you are committing the most serious offence either to your parents or Guru or any respectful human, then you may come back to the lowest form of animal. Different philosophers from ancient times have got different opinions. On this earth, every living being is mortal but its soul is immortal, soul is identical to the mind and when a person dies, their mind survives in a ghostly state perhaps around us. So that in Hinduism, we offer fruits, milk, etc, as food to this soul after death for a few days at least and even we believe mortal soul will be happy and free to go to next level after Pinda Daan (Tarpan) at Gaya Vishnu Paada for the peace and escape to the departed soul of our ancestors. Aum Shanti

https://m.facebook.com/100001927454558/posts/318077498266496/

Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Through the practice of Meditation, we can try to Touch the Silence.

The Master's Voice 24

In olden days, the Indian village hired a night-watchman to keep down crime and accidents. He would go around the streets and lanes with a square metal lantern, open only at the front. The watchman could see, wherever the lantern cast its light. No rays of light fell on him, who carried the lantern. If you wanted to see who the watchman was, you had to ask him to turn the lamp back on his own face. We are like that! 

Our eyes (ears, tongue, etc.) are all facing outward, looking at and feeling the things of the world. The Master's say, "if you want to see The Lord, turn the lamp around; look within and find the Source of all the light."

The Master's say, "Our consciousness is spread wide across the world. It is scattered here and there. Hence, our consciousness is restricted to the initial 3 levels of consciousness. The Dream, Sleep and Wake consciousness."

These consciousness, according to The Saints are within the ambit of Cycle of birth and death. Our life is controlled by the mind through 5 senses. The mind attunes the ego such that we believe we are The Doers. Everything happens as per our wish and desires. Our thoughts are oriented towards I, Me and Myself. 

The Master's say, "The Lord had sent us in this universe as a pure soul, but we made the wrong choices and have got layers of dust covering. As and when we clear the layers of dust away, The Soul can recollect its true identity and try to reconnect with the source, The Lord."

The Master's further say, "Through the practice of Meditation, we can try to Touch the Silence. Touching the SILENCE is the proof of us overpowering the worldly thoughts and focussing on connecting with The Lord. This is the only process to clear the dust layers that we have accumulated over the Soul. Living in the Remembrance of The Lord facilitates us in Touching the SILENCE.

Touching the Silence in Meditation is called as Transcending the state of ego and Realising The Self. This is also called as Self Realisation or opening of the Third Eye."

This can be achieved only by The Master's Grace and by Living in The Master's Will. Self realisation is also the stage when the Soul is awakened state of consciousness and knows its original identity.

The Master's say, "once we Touch the Silence, we revel in Bliss and Peace. Harmony starts to flow and follow. We want to give more time to meditation. This leads us to Being in the State of SILENCE. This is called as Cosmic consciousness or connecting with The Laws of Nature."

The Saints say, "When we start Being in SILENCE, we Realise The Master's presence inside. The Master, who was guiding us from inside till date and was not visible, is visible now. The Soul realises that it has reached thus far because of the Divine Grace and magnetic pull of The Master."

The Master's say, "As we traverse beyond the Cosmic consciousness, we go beyond SILENCE to unravel and hear The Sound inside us. This is the 6th step and is also called as God consciousness."

The Master's Grace and His Presence facilitate to reach this stage. Here, we feel the God and awaken in our Self.

The Master's say, "Further traverse through the practice of Meditation shall enable us to have The Darshan of The Lord and immerse in Him."

Here The Saints say, "The Disciples will SEE that The Lord and The Master are the same."

This is called as Unity Consciousness. Here, The Soul, The Master and The Lord are unified, ONE.

The result derived from Living in The Master's Will and practicing Meditation is incomprehensible. Let us meditate and Live in The Remembrance of The Lord. Our Master will surely shower His Grace and uplift us. 

Authored by K. Giri

Durian fruit

It's Durian season and while you're in Singapore or any other South East Asian country, you can't ignore this "King of fruits".

The durian is the edible fruit of several tree species belonging to the genus Durio. There are 30 recognised Durio species, at least nine of which produce edible fruit.

Durio zibethinus is the only species available in the international market, other species are sold in their local regions. It is native to Borneo and Sumatra.

The durian stands out in the fruit market for its large size (up to 30 cm long and 15 cm in diameter) strong odour, and thorn-covered rind.

It typically weighs 1 to 3 kilograms. Its shape ranges from oblong to round, the colour of its spiny skin varies from green to brown, and its creamy flesh ranges from pale yellow to red, depending on the species.

Some people regard the durian as having a pleasantly sweet fragrance, whereas others find the aroma overpowering with an unpleasant odour. The smell evokes reactions from deep appreciation to intense disgust, and has been described variously as rotten onions, turpentine, and raw sewage. The persistence of its odour, which may linger for several days, led certain hotels and public transportation services in Southeast Asia to ban the fruit.

The flesh is edible and it is used to flavour a wide variety of savoury and sweet desserts in Southeast Asian cuisines. The seeds can also be eaten when cooked.

The name "durian" is derived from the Malay language word dûrî (meaning 'thorn'), a reference to the numerous prickly thorns of the rind. The species name 'zibethinus' derives from the name of the civet (Viverra zibetha), known for its odour.

Durian trees are large, growing to 25–50 metres high depending on the species.

The leaves are simple, evergreen, oblong and 10–18 centimetres long. 

The flowers are creamy white and have 5 petals.The flowers are produced in three to thirty clusters together on large branches and directly on the trunk. Durian flowers are large and feathery with copious nectar, and give off a heavy, sour, and buttery odour. These features are typical of flowers pollinated by certain species of bats that eat nectar and pollen.

Durian trees have one or two flowering and fruiting periods per year. A typical durian tree can bear fruit after four or five years. The durian fruit can hang from any branch, and matures roughly three months after pollination.

The durian is somewhat similar in appearance to the jackfruit, an unrelated species.

Varieties of durian that are popular and imported from Malaysia are the D24 and Musang King. The latter being the priciest of all cultivars.

The varieties from Indonesia include Sukun durian, Sitokong, Sijapang, Simas, Sunan, Si dodol, Si hijau and Petruk.

The fruit is highly appetising to diverse animals, including squirrels, mouse deer, pigs, sun bear, orangutan, elephants, and even carnivorous tigers.While some of these animals eat the fruit and dispose of the seed under the parent plant, others swallow the seed with the fruit, and then transport it some distance before excreting, with the seed being dispersed as a result.The thorny, armoured covering of the fruit discourages smaller animals; larger animals are more likely to transport the seeds far from the parent tree.

The durian fruit is ready to eat when its husk begins to crack. However, the ideal stage of ripeness to be enjoyed varies from region to region in Southeast Asia and by species.

A common local belief is that the durian is harmful when eaten with coffee or alcoholic beverages as it will cause indigestion and bad breath.

Several medical investigations on the validity of this belief have been conducted with varying conclusions, though a study by the University of Tsukuba finds the fruit's high sulphur content inhibits the activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing a 70 percent reduction of the ability to clear toxins from the body.

A durian falling on a person's head can cause serious injuries because it is heavy, armed with sharp thorns, and can fall from a significant height. Wearing a hardhat is recommended when collecting the fruit. A few reports mentioned that people have died from durian falling on their heads, especially young children.

Strong nylon or woven rope netting is often strung between durian trees in orchards, serving a threefold purpose: the nets aid in the collection of the mature fruits, deter ground-level scavengers, and prevent the durians from falling onto people.

Southeast Asian traditional beliefs, as well as traditional Chinese food therapy, consider the durian fruit to have warming properties liable to cause excessive sweating.The traditional method to counteract this is to pour water into the empty shell of the fruit after the pulp has been consumed and drink it. An alternative method is to eat the durian in accompaniment with mangosteen, which is considered to have cooling properties. Pregnant women or people with high blood pressure are traditionally advised not to consume durian.

In Malaysia, a decoction of the leaves and roots used to be prescribed as an antipyretic. The leaf juice is applied on the head of a fever patient.The most complete description of the medicinal use of the durian as remedies for fevers is a Malay prescription, that instructs the reader to boil the roots of Hibiscus (rosa-sinensis) with the roots of Durio zibethinus, Nephelium longan, Nephelium mutabile and Artocarpus integrifolia, and drink the decoction or use it as a poultice.

There's a road in Singapore named after this fruit as Durian road. It is located in Pulau Ubin

Reference 

https://www.facebook.com/myplantdiaries?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Sudarshan Kriya and migraine without aura

I was in 10th grade when I was diagnosed with migraine. I regularly suffered from nausea and vomiting. The pain would last between 4 to 72 hours at a stretch. The medical industry has a term for this pain - “migraine without aura”. It means I was extremely sensitive to light and sound. I couldn’t stay hungry beyond a time. I used to take painkillers when I suffered the attack and this continued throughout, and even after, my engineering.  

On my friend's insistence I joined The Art of Living Happiness Program. After doing the Sudarshan Kriya for the first time, I felt a sense of calm and lightness. I came back home with a smile and I had the deepest sleep ever in months. Practicing Sudarshan Kriya every day ensured that I didn’t have migraine attack for next one year. Even if I suffered a migraine attack, it didn't last beyond 4 hours and the frequency has reduced to once in 2 months or even less. It was not that I never faced challenges or never felt low, but the Sudarshan Kriya and the knowledge imparted during the program ensured that I was strong from within.

   

- Namita Bohara

"Health is not a mere absence of disease. It is a dynamic expression of life – in terms of how joyful, loving and enthusiastic you are.”

Health is Wealth and Prevention is better than cure. So everyday morning do Sudarshan Kriya, Pranayam, Physical Exercises, meditation. 

Sudharshana Kriya is a very powerful technique of Breathing that eliminates

 Stress, Fatigue and Negative emotions such as Anger, Frustration and Depression, leaving the mind calm, focused and the body energized, completely relaxed.

Sudarshan Kriya is the unrevealed secret to health, happiness, peace and an insight of life beyond!

It’s a spiritual breakthrough giving the experience of a glimpse of infinity. 

Know about the Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique which can transform your health, relationships, and career. Know 99 benefits of Sudarshan Kriya

https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/sudarshan-kriya/benefits/99-benefits-sudarshan-kriya

Inhale Good Health, Everyday

Elephants in Rituals and Festivals of Kerala (गज उत्सव)

Elephants are symbol of power and prestige, the Nobel animal became the vehicle of the Royals. Some time later this was extended to protector of the Kings and his people. Festival and Elephant are integral part of Malayalee culture.

 Elephants are a part of temple rituals in Kerala. Many temples keep elephants. Elephants are respected as the form of Ganesh, son of Mahadev. As of elephants, Rigveda mentions in Mandala 6. On special occasions, the elephants are worshipped and fed by devotees to please Ganesh for well-being. Most of them are donated by devotees. Guruvayoor temple has 57 elephants. Guruvayur temple currently has 47 elephants. 

There are numerous festivals but one that stands out is the elephant festival of Kerala. The event is known as Pooram Gajamela or Festival of Elephants. The elephant processions gather the largest crowds with music, percussion, and classical dance performances accompanied by lots of frenzy. One can cherish the sight of elephants dressed up in gold and red silks. The Elephant Festival also celebrated in the city of Jaipur in Rajasthan.

Thrissur Pooram is one of Kerala's popular and grand festivals celebrated with much energy. It takes place during the calendar months late April or early May near Vadakkumnathan temple which is located in Thrissur. In the Malayalam month it is celebrated at Medam. There are nearly 30 elephants accompanied with 250 artistes beating rhythmic drums. This is a festival or celebration where a competition is organized called Kudamattom. It involves movement of decorated umbrellas in a step- by- step timely manner.

Arattupuzha Pooram; If you thought 30 elephants were so many, then take a look at this elephant festival organized near the oldest temple in Kerala, Arattupuzha Temple. With about 60 elephants participating in this Pooram held during the summer months of Late March or Early April this is another grand festival of Elephants celebrated in Kerala.

Peruvanam Pooram is one of the first and most ancient elephant festivals celebrated in the state. Kerala’s Cherpu in Thrissur district’s Peruvanam Temple sees a fabulous procession with drums beating constantly for about four hours. This is one of the oldest and is believed to be around 1,500 years old. It is followed by colorful and noisy fireworks in this festival that is celebrated in Late March or Early April.

Parippally Gajamela is held at two places. The one at Kodimoottil Bhagavathy Temple has around 50 pachyderms participating in the huge affair. The other one is held near Chinakkathoor Bhagavathy Temple in Palakkad district’s Palappuram which has around 33 elephants participating in the cultural affair. Moreover there are cultural events held here. This includes puppet shows in shadows and horse and bull effigies and a traditional percussion. The festival is held during the month of March.

Pariyanampetta Pooram is one of Kerala’s lengthy festivals as it lasts for duration of one week/ 7 days. Held in the calendar month of February at the Palakkad district’s Kattukulam near Pariyanampetta Bhagavathy Temple. This specific elephant festival is popular for the ritual known as Kalamezhuthu Pattu. In this ritual, there are images and drawings of goddesses on the ground. This is done using natural powder colors. There is singing and various traditional art forms. The last day sees the special elephant procession.

Uthralikkavu Pooram is the lengthiest elephant festival also held in the month of February. But this one is celebrated over a period eight days. The festival is organized close to a standalone temple called Rudhira Mahakali Kavu in Vadakkancherry, Thrissur. The eight day long festival is dedicated to Goddess Kali.

 The highlight of this festival is its scenic setting with aligning paddy fields. This is one of the most celebrated and grand festival with elephant processions taking place in daytime and celebrations all through the night too. There are various traditional ensembles with music and percussion accompanied. 

There are many villages celebrating, competing with each other for the most extravagant parade. When you come for a visit to Kerala you can enjoy elephant spotting in Munnar or Thekkady famous Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.

 Elephants can make at least thirty different vocal sounds, including trumpets, squeals, growls, rumbles, and sounds too low-pitched for humans to hear. Elephants are not only trainable and intelligent but they are prehensile. Elephants really do have long memories. 

Elephants are self-aware. Elephants practice altruism. That means that can deal with reality in useful ways and also exercise their curiosity. This has been proven scientifically through a number of recent studies. In Thailand, Elephants can be seen painting intricate pictures using a paintbrush held in their trunk.

Most famous elephant Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, the tallest tusker in Kerala and the second tallest one in India, has the most fans. Born in 1964, this 56-year-old Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, the king of elephants is a celebrity among all Malayalis around the world. One of the most popular elephants famed to bless devotees was Lakshmi in Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka. Place a 10 rupee note in her extended trunk, she will pass it to her mahout and bless you.

 Since elephant in Kerala is also domesticated on a large scale, there are places where you can see elephant Kerala getting trained and taking baths. Kodanad is situated on the south bank of river Periyar, which is around 42 KM from Kochi, and the Elephant rescue centre for the central Kerala forest region is located in Kodanad. Mainstreaming the Mahouts by introducing informal curricular, parting best and most humane technique of manning the Elephants, as of now there is no mechanism to prevent psychos from becoming one. 

Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

What is Yantra Vidya ?

Yantra Vidya is a classified study and knowledge of the Arts and Science of the symbols, idols, sculptures, images, signs, logos, and emblems.

Nirgun-Nirakar Brahman: The Single Formless God. The Ultimate, Formless, Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, and all-pervasive Universal Consciousness, called Nirakar-Nirgun-Brahman (God-Nature-Paramatma) is one entity and cannot be perceived with the five normal senses of sight (eyes), hearing (ears), smell (nose), taste (tongue), and touch (skin).

It can be perceived with the higher faculty of the extrasensory perception (ESP) of clairvoyance (Divya-Dhrishti/extended divine vision), clairaudience (an enhanced spectrum of the hearing), intelligence (Buddhi), absolute wisdom (Pravidya-Pragyan), intuition (Mahat), and Super-consciousness (Turiya).

The extrasensory perception can be developed with the regular practice of Akhand Yoga, an integrated form of Yoga, and conscientious chanting of Akhand Gayatri Mantra.

Sagun Brahman: The Formed God. For the benefit of the normal human beings with the limited faculty of the five normal senses, mind, and consciousness, the ancient Indian Sages designed and created the symbols of Gods and Goddesses with different number of heads, hands, and instruments, to explain the innate nature of the different aspects of the Formless Universal Consciousness.

The Science of Ancient Indian Symbols: It is one of the greatest contributions of the ancient Indian Sages. The symbols are as old as the universe, universal consciousness, and Nature. Every object of Nature is designed and created with the precision of mathematics.

The symbols of Nature are great assets for the human brain, mind, and consciousness. The wisdom of even a thousand words can be represented with a single symbol of Nature. A systematic and classified representation of the modern sciences would be impossible without the aid of signs, abbreviations, and symbols. The visual signals are much more powerful than the auditory signals. It is easier to focus the mind on a beautiful picture than contemplate on an abstract idea.

The images of natural symbols of different dimensions, shape, size, color, and texture are stored in the primary, secondary, tertiary, and associated areas of the human brain. Hence, they can be easily recognized, remembered, recalled, reviewed, and reinforced. It is also true that every new Age brings with it, a new element of evolution, a new set of symbols, and a new meaning of the existing symbols. Now, let us comprehend the Science of Picture of Goddess Gayatri. Goddess Gayatri is represented with five heads, which represent five elements. She is depicted with the ten arms, which represent, the ten dimensions of the universe, the ten sisters (rays) of Sun spreading light in ten directions of the Solar system, and the ten stages of development of the formation of the objects of the universe and Nature.

The Science of Yantra Vidya is beyond the comprehension of a limited mind. The prime objective of Yantra Vidya was to represent the various aspects of the universe and Nature, which a common person could easily study, understand, and appreciate. Yantra Vidya can help understand Tantra, Chakras, Nadis, Kundalini, Kundalini Awakening, Kundalini Yoga, and Self Realization.

Living a peaceful life does not depend on the situations of past, present or future. Accepting life as it comes and having a will to let go without getting attached to anything is the key for a peaceful living. Do your duty and be contented with what you have.Every emotion has energy. In a day, we go through so many negative emotions--anger, guilt, grief, envy, greed, fear, worry, stress, lust but we don't realize that the energy associated with these emotions is usually used destructively by us, to cause harm to ourselves or to others.

 If we became aware, we would realize that every time we became angry or fearful or stressed out, the body produces tremendous energy. What we need to do is to channel this energy into something constructive, rather than letting it run amok, cause problems to us and others. These energies are like wild animals; we need to learn to domesticate them and put them to good use. Next time you feel a negative emotion, try and become aware and channel the energy into some constructive activity...

Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Powerful benefits of Hanuman Chalisa

Hanuman Chalisa helps you stay happy all day. Reading Hanuman Chalisa with full devotion can help you fulfill all your wishes. It gives one strength and courage to face challenges head-on. The authorship of the Hanuman Chalisa is attributed to Tulsidas, a poet-saint who lived in the 16th century CE. Worshipping Hanuman has great merit. In Hanumanji we find a Saviour par excellence who can rescue us from precarious situations that we have to face politically, socially or economically. Therefore, we hold him in high esteem and reverance in Kaliyuga. 

He has been depicted in many forms depending on the situation and the task placed in front of him. To become Hanuman we must awaken to our inner nature as a portion of cosmic consciousness, a servant of the Universal Self that is Sri Rama. Each one of us has the power of the entire universe within us, but only when we surrender to Lord Rama within. We can only recognize this when we become aware of our inner Self, what the Upanishads call the antaryami or inner controller.

 Hanuman is the force of Rama working within us, the strength of our innermost self that is the ruler of al and the master of the universe. It is Hanuman alone who can discover Sita Devi. Sita represents the deeper Self-knowledge or Atma Vidya, through which Rama or the self can be fully realised. It is believed among that reciting the Hanuman Chalisa can ward off evil spirits, reduce the effect of Saturn and help those troubled by nightmares. It is said that Lord Hanuman prevents accidents and blesses you to have a safe trip. 

Freedom From Family Strife: If you do not see any solution for the family feud in your house then worship Hanuman Ji. Here you will get not only the power and the way to end the discord of your home. Reciting Hanuman Chalisa will also give you strength and the way to end discord.

To Ward Off Negative Energies: One the verses from Chalisa reads as “Bhoot Pichash Nikat Nahi Aaven, Mahavir jab Naam Sunave”. It translated to- No evil spirit can influence a person who takes the name of Lord Hanuman, that is, evil thinking does not catch him.

Force Semen Growth: Hanuman Ji is the most powerful and Mahavir, due to his attention the man is strong and semen.

Success in Efforts: “Bhima Roop Dhari Asura Sanhare, Ram Chandra’s Kaj Samvare” The meaning of this Chaupai is that in the war between Sri Ram and Ravana, Hanumanji took the form of Bhima, that is, the giant form killed the demons and demons. Hanuman Ji made his significant contribution in completing Shriram’s work. Due to which all the work of Shriram was decorated.

Hanuman Chalisa Recitation Before Bedtime is Beneficial: If your mind remains restless, does not sleep properly, is afraid of sleeping alone, then you start reciting Hanuman Chalisa regularly. The mental disturbance is a major reason for not sleeping well. The recitation of Hanuman Chalisa provides mental peace and liberates the mind-boggling weed which gives the person a good sleep and a chance to progress in life.

Strengthens Mars or Mangal: There is nothing to worry about if your horoscope Mars shows weak. For this, you only have to chant this text because it makes your Mars strong. You get fame, fame, prosperity, power, and happiness.

Reduce the Effects of Saturn: If a person is facing the crisis of Saturn, then Hanuman Chalisa of that person should be read. Shani Dev is afraid of Lord Hanuman. Those who are suffering from Sati Sati or due to the position of Saturn in their horoscope should recite Chalisa Chopahi to flee such defects. This brings peace to his life.

Build Confidence: If any kind of problem is not solved, difficulty or sorrow is not going away, then read this Chopahi. “Ashta Siddhi Navnidhi Ke Datha, As Bar Deen Janaki Mata”. This gives peace from inside and instills confidence in humans. Hanuman Chalisa helps in improving your personality and resolves all the problems in life in a better way.

Cure Illness: “Nasai Rog Harai sub-Pira Japat Niranter Hanumat Bira“. By chanting the name of Mahavir Shri Hanuman Ji, diseases are destroyed and they destroy all suffering. "Lai Sanjeevan Lakhan Jiaye Shri Raghubir Harshi" Chanting this line can also get relief from severe diseases. If a person is suffering from a serious illness and the medicines are also not being affected, then he should chant this Chalisa or this line with devotion.

Driveaway Evil Spirits: Hanuman Ji was very powerful and he was not afraid of anyone. He destroys every evil spirit and frees people from it. People who get scared at night or have scary thoughts come to mind, they should recite Hanuman Chalisa daily.

Sharpen your Intellect: If your child does not remember anything read or work is a person of wisdom, then these four-footers should be read. These quadrupeds are done for learning and money. Hanuman Ji is learned and talented, and also clever. Any person who chants this Chaupi, like Hanumanji, gets knowledge, virtue, cleverness as well as devotion to Shri Ram.

The Feeling of Divine Bliss: विद्यावन गुण अति चतुर, राम काज करिबे को अतुर By reading Hanuman Chalisa, one experiences divine bliss. It is saying that when you feel that there is an outbreak of evil spirits at you or at your home, by reciting Lord Hanuman Chalisa, evil spirits can overcome. Evil spirits are always afraid of Lord Hanuman.

Get Rid of Sin: We sometimes make mistakes deliberately or unconsciously. But you can ask for his forgiveness by reading Chalisa.

Enjoy Safe Travel: It’s during the journey or before leaving home ensures that the journey will be good. Also, keep a small idol of Lord Hanuman with you and you will have seen the idol of Lord Hanuman standing in front of you in many vehicles. is. This is because it believes that Lord Hanuman can prevent accidents and ensure the success of the journey.

Create a Feeling of Positivity: The lesson and recitation of Hanuman Chalisa make us positive and destroys dirty and bad thoughts. It changes our emotions. Heals tremendously in stressful times.

Mental Strength: Along with physical comfort, mental rest is also very much needed. For mental peace, we should keep meditation on this Chalisa.

Believe that Hanuman Chalisa recitation is not only related to religious and worship, but it is very good for giving you mental peace as well as your health.

Spiritual Knowledge: We obtain divine spiritual knowledge by meditating on Hanuman Chalisa. It can be chanting to control your mind in terms of material desires and worldly pleasures.

 To Fulfill All Wishes: By chanting or listening to Hanuman Chalisa with full devotion and meditation, all of the people’s intended wishes come true. The regular recitation of Chalisa greets you with the blessings of Hanuman Ji and gives you great powers.

When fear is unknown: If someone is afraid of an unknown stranger, then he should wash his hands and feet before sleeping every night and start reciting Hanuman Chalisa with the holy mind. ‘Ghost vampires did not come near, Mahavira when the name was heard. It is told from this couplet that the person who recites this Chalisa regularly does not have ghosts and other negative powers around him.

Attained accomplishment: ‘The benefits of chanting or listening to Hanuman Chalisa are infinite and incredible. Goswamiji said that Hanuman Chalisa has to be read. The further description has come, ‘Hoy Siddhi Sakhi Gourisa.’ Hoy Siddhi means Siddhi. Sakhi Gaurisa i.e. the oath of Shiva and Parvati. The meaning of saying is that if Sri Chalisa is read with reverence and faith, then accomplishment is attained.

End the financial crisis: Hanuman Ji is the donor of Ashtasidhi and Navnidhi.

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Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Gurudev Had a cordial meeting with Deputy Prime Minister of Poland 🇵🇱, His Excellency Prof. Piotr Glinski in Warsaw.

Do Not Follow Me

Knowledge Sheet 150

April 22, 1998,

Zen Monastery Blois,

France. 

Do Not Follow Me

Do not follow me. In fact, you cannot follow me, because I am behind you to push you forward! You have to leave everything behind & move ahead. All your past experiences, your relations- everything- is part of the past.

 Leave the whole world of your memories behind- including me. Drop everything. I am there behind you. Move on. Stop looking for more & be free! Then compassion will flow from you.

Q- When people do not follow anyone, isn't it usually out of fear or rebelliousness?

Sri Sri: One type of Do not follow comes from fear or rebelliousness. Another type comes from heightened awareness. You cannot follow me because I am behind you & I am in you. For long you have been a sheep. Now it's time to be a lion.

🌸Jai Guru Dev🌸  

साप्ताहिक ज्ञानपत्र १५०

२२ अप्रैल, १९९८

फ्रांस

मेरा पीछा न करो

मेरा पीछा मत करो। वास्तव में तुम मेरा पीछा कर ही नही सकते क्योंकि मैं तो तुम्हारे पीछे हूं, तुमको आगे बढ़ाने के लिए।

तुम्हे सब-कुछ पीछे छोड़ देना है और आगे बढ़ना है। तुम्हारे सभी अनुभव, तुम्हारे नाते- रिश्ते- सब-कुछ- भूत काल के हिस्से है। अपनी स्मृतियों के सम्पूर्ण संसार को पीछे छोड़ दो- मुझको भी। सब-कुछ छोड़ दो। मैं तुम्हारे पीछे ही हूं। आगे बढ़ो। कुछ और अधिक की खोज छोड़कर मुक्त हो जाओ। तब तुम्हारे अंदर अनुकम्पा उभरकर बहेगी।

प्रश्न: जब लोग किसी का पिछा नही करते तो क्या उनका यह व्यवहार भय या विद्रोह के कारण नही?

श्री श्री: एक प्रकार का ' पीछा न करो' भय या विद्रोह से आता है; दूसरा आता है उन्नत सजगता से।

तुम मेरा पीछा कर ही नही सकते क्योंकि मैं तुम्हारे पीछे हूं और तुम्हारे अंदर हूं ।

दीर्घकाल से तुम भेड़ बने हुए हो।

अब समय आ गया है शेर बनने का।

🌸जय गुरुदेव 🌸

Mahavir and his Ashta Siddhis Navnidhi (अष्ट सिद्धि नौ निधि)

Ashta Siddhis are the eight divine Knowledge which means eight divine powers are: Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Isitva, Vasitva are Hindu religious knowledges in Hanuman chalisa or Ganesh vajana, that gives one complete power over each and everything. 

Hindu scriptures say that the people who have complete control over the siddhis can gain power of demigods. Each siddhi governs certain character or certain aspect of nature and mastering each gives one distinct ability unique to other siddhis.

Anima is the first among the ashta siddhis. Mastering this siddhi gives the individual the ability to shrink down one’s body. This siddhi gives only the ability shrink the body; the owner of this siddhi can shrink the body to his own will even at the atomic scale but cannot increase the size of the body. The most notable use of this siddhi was done by lord Hanuman while spying on Lanka in search of mother sita. While spying lord hanuman shrunk his huge body to a very miniature form because of which the demons were unable to spot him.

Mahima one of ashta siddhi siddhi grants the user the ability to attain gigantic forms. It is like anima or it completes Anima siddhi. Anima lets you shrink your body while mahima lets you increase the size of the body even to the celestial level. Lord hanuman used mahima to increase his size and lift sumeru parbat to bring back Sanjivani booti to save Laxman’s life. Another use of mahima siddhi was done by Bahaman avatar of lord Vishnu. In which lord turned his size celestial level and in three steps he covered the entire existence.

Garima siddhi lets user to alter the weight of their body. However, like the relation between Anima and mahima, Garima only allows the user to increase the weight but not decrease it. By this siddhi one can increase his/her weight from little bit to infinitely, to the point one becomes immovable. Angat when going to ravanas court challenged the warriors in his court to move his feet but no one was able to do so because angat used garima siddhi. Another instance was when to control bheems arrogance lord hanuman disguised as an old monkey asked him to lift his tail. However, lord hanuman used garima siddhi so bheem could not lift his tail.

Laghima of astha siddhi is opposite to garima, allows its user to decrease the body weight. This siddhi decreases the weight of the user so much that the user will get the ability to fly. The weight can decrease so much that the individual can be light as a feather and gain levitation. Lord hanuman and various other demigods, demons knew this siddhi and were able to fly in the sky.

Prapti is very different from previous siddhis. While the previous siddhis focused on one’s body prapti focuses on things outside of body. Prapti siddhi gives one ability to instantly get the things they desire. The siddhi users can get anything they desire out of thin air. Various gods, demons, demigods had this ability in the ancient Hindu stories. The gods granted boon by making gifts out of thin air, demons made weapons out of nowhere.

Prakamya siddhi provides wide range of abilities to its user. It allows its user to increase their life length dramatically, teleportation, ability to live underwater. In the general sense prakamya enabels the user to adapt to the circumstances. Various rishimunis, chiranjivis and demigods had this ashta siddhi in the past as they could live under water and extend their lives to exceptionally longg time.

The individual obtaining this ashta siddhi gets the ability to influence the nature as per ones will. When someone attains this siddhi, the earth will move per his/her wish, the sky will rain as one’s demand, the wind will move as his/her sign. Every natural phenomenon will answer to ones will. Various peoples had isitva power, they could make tree grow instantly, rain down immediately and other many things.

Vasitva the last of ashta siddhi allows the user to control other people’s minds. The ability is not limited only to people’s mind but to animal’s mind also. This ability can tame wild animals, mentally disturbed individuals. Various avatars of lord Vishnu could immediately calm enraged animals and individuals using this ashta siddhi.

The highest levels of performance come to people who are centred, intuitive, creative and reflective, people who know to see a problem as an opportunity. Success comes when people act together; failure tends to happen alone. Hanuman is the Prana Shakti that flows within all of us. It is by worshiping Hanuman, it is by meditating upon him, it is by focusing on our Prana that we embark on the journey of self-realization.

 This is why he is called Pavan Putra. He is the deity guarding Prana. And consciously watching Prana during meditation is how we still our restless minds, turn inwards and embark on the most wonderful journey that anyone can ever take. 

हरि प्रेरित तेहि अवसर चले मरुत उनचास।

अट्टहास करि गर्जा कपि बढ़ि लाग अकास।। (Sunderkand 25)

There is a detailed description about the 7 branches of air in the Vedas. The air that is inside the water has been given a different name in the Vedas and Puranas and the air that is in the sky has a different name. The air that is in space has a different name and the air that is in the underworld has a different name. 

The difference in name means that its qualities and behavior are also different. In this way, the description of 7 types of air is found in the Vedas. These are 7 types- 1. Pravah, 2. Aavah, 3. Udvah, 4. Sanvah, 5. Vivah, 6. Parivah and 7. Paravah.

1. Flow: The air that crosses the earth and extends up to the Megh Mandal is called flow. There are types of this flow as well. This wind is very powerful and it carries the clouds here and there. It is this flow of air that fills the clouds generated by the sun and heat with sea water, due to which these clouds turn into black clouds and become extremely hot. There are those who make it rain. 

2. Aavah: Aavah is bound in the solar system. By that the solar system is rotated by being attached to the pole. 

3. Udvah: The name of the third branch of air is Udvah, which is established in Chandralok. Through this, this lunar circle is rotated by being associated with the pole. 

4. Convection: The name of the fourth branch of air is Convection, which is located in the Nakshatra Mandal. Due to that, the entire Nakshatra Mandal keeps rotating by being bound to the pole.

5. Vivah: The name of the fifth branch is Vivah and it is located in the planetary circle. Through it only this planetary wheel revolves around the Pole.

 6. Parivaha: The name of the sixth branch of air is Parivaha, which is located in Saptarshimandal. Through this, the Saptarishis travel in the sky, being associated with Dhruva. 

7. Paravah: The name of the seventh wing of air is Paravah, which is attached to the pole. Through this, the Dhruv Chakra and other circles remain established at one place.

 There are seven types of gunas of these seven airs which roam in the following places: Brahmalok, Indralok, Space, East direction of Bhulok, West direction of Bhulok, North direction of Bhulok and South direction of Bhulok. In this way 7 x 7 = 49. A total of 49 become Maruts who keep on roaming in the form of gods.

Sage Valmiki refers to Hanuman as “DhIra” in Srimad Ramayana. DhIra seems to suggest as an adjective to one who is brave, courageous, bold and fearless, one who is delighted to go with what the Dhi says is DhIra. Dhi is the highest power a human being possesses and it has its dwelling in the Ajna Chakra (Pineal Gland). Using of this power is the one which differentiates a human from an animal. Everything in life is a lesson. Refusing to learn the lesson means that it will be repeated until the lesson is learned from Hanuman ji.

Nine Nidhis; According to Amarakosha, the nine nidhis are Mahapadma (Divine lotus), Padma (Lotus), Shankha (Conch-shell), Makara (Crocodile), Kachhapa (Tortoise), Mukund (Quick silver), Kund (jasmine), Neelam (Blue sapphire), and Kharva (a Dwarf). The nature and characteristics of nidhis have remained largely unexplained and have not been fully understood. When considered as mines, minerals, earthenware and ocean resources, the nine treasures of Kubera are interpreted as: 

- padma (lake in Himalaya with minerals and jewels) 

- mahapadma (lake double the size of padma in Himalaya with minerals and jewels) 

- makara (Synonym of Padmini, black antimony) 

- nila (Antimony) 

- mukunda (cinnabar, or quicksilver) 

- kunda (arsenic) 

- kharva (cups or vessels baked in fire) 

- kachchhapa (tortoise or turtle shell) 

- sankha (conch shell)

Less known facts about Sadhana and Siddhis

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Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Developing Growth Mindset and Happy

The difference between successful people and others is how long they spend time feeling sorry for themselves. Perception is a clash of mind and eye, the eye believing what it sees, the mind seeing what it believes. A belief is a proposition we create and accept as representing the way the world actually is in our mind. We filter information based on our beliefs (logic based on past experiences) and only absorb the information that matches our belief system.

Toxic people If you've ever spent time with truly toxic people, you know how destructive and exhausting they can be. Toxic people spread ne gativity and suffocate the positive. Let them find a new home-or, if that's not possible, make sure policies and supervision are in place to minimize their damage. 

No professional development Everyone needs to know that they are learning and growing. Without that, the workplace grows static and dull. Professional development for each of your employees allows them grow in their careers and also to know that both the organization and you have an investment in their success. 

 Lack of vision A clearly communicated vision sets direction and lets people know where to focus. Without it, even the best employees are less effective, because it's hard to excel if you don't understand the big picture. 

Wasted time If you have the kind of workplace where meetings are called for no real reason and cricket discuss, Facebook posts, emails are sent to everyone with irrelevant information, it's likely that your workers are deeply frustrated. Show people, you value them by showing them you value their time. 

 Inadequate communication When communication is poor, people spend half their time second-guessing what they're doing, critical tasks are missed, nonessential jobs are duplicated, information is locked into silos, and destructive rumors thrive. A clear flow of communication benefits everyone. 

 Vertical management If you can remember being in a situation where your ideas and input weren't valued or even heard, where it was "keep quiet and do what I say," you know how hard it is to do anything more than a grudging minimum. The more collaboration, the more investment, and the more motivation. 

Lack of appreciation When hard work or extraordinary results go unrecognized, when even every day thanks are unexpressed, people grow uninspired and apathetic. You can reward your employees without spending a dime; it can be as simple as saying "thank you." 

 Bad leadership harm every member of their team and their entire organization. Even the best employees need effective leadership to excel. Start with developing your own leadership, then hire and grow the best leaders at every level. It's the best thing you can do to improve your workplace for everyone.

 Happiness is to realise that life is an invitation to feel deeper connection with yourself and life is to be free and to feel empowered. Happiness is to become aware that while dealing with difficult people you don't have to unlove them but you have to love yourself a little more everytime. Happiness is to let go of "why is this happening to me?" and embrace the truth that whatever happens it turns out in your favour.

 Happiness is to count the good people and loveliest memories in your life. Happiness is to understand that wherever you are in life magic can happen any moment. Happiness is to be sure that when you reach the destination you will be proud of the journey. Happiness is to allow life to be on your side. Happiness is a universal human right. There is no greater power than that of a laugh and happiness is a force which can save a person from the horrors of the world. 

Happiness is never in the hands of other people. It's always about you. Happiness is learning how to live with yourself. Happiness is about being kinder to yourself, it's about embracing the person you are becoming. Happiness is to discover your heart, listen to it and let it go wherever it chooses to go. Happiness is expecting the best despite it not being visible to your senses yet. Happiness is to awaken to the fact that life is no longer against you and it never was.

Develop positive mindset: If learning makes you happy, spend some time with family, friends, good circumstances and develop positive mindset. Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer grows you.

Volunteer: Volunteering is good for the soul. It has even greater benefits for physical and emotional health as you get older. So, as you get older, it just makes sense to take more time to help others. Whatever you find to do, allow yourself to enjoy the work and the connections you're making with others.

Smile: When you smile, something wonderful happens; you feel better with attitude of gratitude. And smile is the idea behind the facial feedback hypothesis. According to research result, smile can promote positive feelings.

Improve Mental Health: It's hard to be happy when you experience depression, anxiety, or another mental condition.Getting better is a process that requires thought, guidance, and expert care.

Give Away Clothes / Books You Don't Need: Sometimes, giving makes people feel happier than receiving. For Happiness Day, give something which not needed most but valuable to someone who can use it. Many people could use some good clothes / books etc. Happiness is about practicing self love, mindfulness, acting consciously, and with purpose and intention, positive energy and mindset, and celebrating the things you love that make you happy. 

 Do more activities that truly engage you, Savor life’s joys, Learn to forgive, Practice acts of kindness, Nurture relationships, Cultivate optimism, Avoid over-thinking and social comparison, Develop strategies for coping, Count your blessings, Strengthen your spiritual connections, Commit to your goals and Take care of your health. No at the right time and place with the right intensity and the right intent to the right person/ situation/ event goes a long way in saving any relationship and keeping the environment happy and eased. 

Nothing can be changed overnight so stop expecting too much from yourself or from your partner and go an extra mile by expecting just nothing from people around you. A super difficult step yet the show stopper as expectations create maximum struggles both mental and emotional. Acknowledgement and Appreciation goes a long way in strengthening any relationship: Replace Anger and Abuse by working on your heart chakra (meditation best way) releasing all that is not required and emptying your cup refilling it with genuine acknowledgement and appreciation first for self and then for others.

Self love is awesome but make sure you aren’t getting into Self obsession as someone who is unable to see anyone or anything around except himself is brewing Ego/ complexes and selfishness. Bless/ Cheer/ Rejoice and most importantly LOVE life which has given you the amazing relationships. Love is the most important feeling which makes life abundant, embrace love and grace all the relationships that makes you what you are at the moment. None of us have mastered all the above points as we are all work in progress... 

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Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Dasa Mahavidya (दश महाविद्या) Ten aspects of Adi Parashakti Part II

Devimahatmya is given to us by Rishi Markandeya. It’s a part of the Markandeya Purana comprising seven hundred verses. It is said in the Rudrayamala Tantra that this contains the secret most knowledge about the Divine Mother and it bestows all siddhis - asti guhyatamaṃ devyaḥ mahatmyaṃ sarvasiddhidam. Damara Tantra extolling the glory of this text says: As among all yajnas Ashvamedha is significant, as Vishnu is highly glorified among all Gods, so saptasati is among all stutis or praises of the Divine Mother - stavanamapi sarvesam tatha saptasatistavaḥ. 

One needs to have the vision or the drishti of a Rishi to see what secret lies hidden in this text - cakṣuṣmantoonupasyanti netare tadvido janaḥ. The secret of this text can reveal itself to the sadhaka who engages himself in parayanam, japa, homa and tarpana. Devimahatmyam dealing with the purpose of life (artha). Devimahatmyam makes the sadhaka aware of the very purpose of life. 

सप्तशती saptasati vs सप्तसती saptasati; As Devimahatmyam of Markandeya Purana contains 700 (saptasata) verses it is widely known as saptasati. But did you know that it is also called saptasati (Gatha) or the story of seven satis.

The seven mothers - Brahmi, Maheswari, Kaumari, Vaisṇavi, Varahi, Indrani and Chamuṇda are regarded by some as seven satis. Some others consider Nanda, Sakambari, Bhima, Raktadantika, Durga, Bhramari and Sataksi as seven satis.

The term “Dasha Mahavidya” comes from the Sanskrit, Dasa, meaning “ten,” maha, meaning “great,” and Vidya, meaning “knowledge.” The Mahavidyas are different forms of the Divine Mother, Adi Shakti, or Parashakti. According to Hindu Puranas, the Dasa Mahavidya were created after a disagreement between Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati (a form of Shakti).

The Mahavidya is a group of ten powerful goddesses in the Hindu Dharma. They encompass every aspect of the physical and spiritual realm, from motherhood and nurturance to destruction and wealth. The Dasa Mahavidya (dasa; ten; maha; great; vidya; wisdoms) are ten Hindu Goddesses, namely; Kali, Tara, Tripura Sundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi and Kamala.

The ten Mahavidyas, or Wisdom Goddesses, represent various aspects of divinity that help guide the spiritual seeker on their journey to liberation. The seeker focused on devotion (Bhakti) may approach these forms with reverence, love, and increasing intimacy. The seeker focused on knowledge (Jnana) may view these forms as representing various states of inner awakening along the path to enlightenment.

These ten forms of Shakti are the epitome paradigm of the entire universe. They are a guide to spiritual awakening for devotees. The Devis also have specific directions in which they reside, like, Goddess Kali and Tara Maa are for North direction, Devi Bhuvaneshvari is West direction, Shodasi (Tripura Sundari) is the Ishaan corner and so on.

Did you know that Dasha Mahavidyas are a traditional collection of female deities with distinct aspects of divinity under the Kaula Tantrika literature?

The Dasha (ten) Mahavidyas or Wisdom Goddesses, representing aspects of Adi Parashakti in Hinduism, are distinct aspects of divinity intent on guiding the spiritual seeker toward liberation. Evolution of these ten aspects, following the decline of Buddhism in India, in the forms of the Divine Mother, is attributed to the Kaula Tantrika practice. It is said that the Dasa Mahavidya were created after a disagreement between Lord Shiva and Sati (a form of Shakti), and the enraged Sati transformed into the Mahavidyas, surrounding Shiva from the ten cardinal directions. Kamagiri in Kamarupa is represented as the seat of the ten Mahavidyas. 

The 10 Mahavidyas are Kali (काली) ,Tara ( तारा), Tripurasundari (रिपुरसुन्दरी) (also called Shodoshi), Bhuvaneśvari (भुवनेश्वरी), Bhairavi ( भैरवी) also known as Triupra Bhairavi, Chinnamasta (छिन्नमस्ता), Dhumavati ( धूमावती), Bagalamukhi (बगलामुखी), Matangi (मातंगी), and Kamala. These are a late medieval Sakta adaptation of the Dasavatara conception. 

In Dasavatara conception the traditional list, as given in the Mundamala, are: Krishna and Kali; Rama and Tarini; Varaha and Bhuvana, Narasimha and Bhairavi; Vamana and Dhumavati, Parasurama Bhrugukula and Chinna, Matsya and Kamala, Kurma and Bagalmukhi, Buddha and Matangi, Kalika and Sodasi. In another list both Kamala and Matangi are omitted, but replaced by Balarama and Bhairavi, and Buddha and Mahalskhmi. 

In the above collection of female deities some are gentle, some are loving, some are horrific. Each one is an aspect of the goddess Parvati. These many forms are personifications of great wisdom, acknowledging that nature is myriad can take many forms, not all of which appeal to our sense of morality and aesthetics. These traditional ten forms are briefly explained. 

1. Kali, the ultimate form of Brahman, "Devourer of Time" (Supreme Deity of Kalikula systems), is pitch dark in complexion with three eyes, representing the past, present and future. In iconography she is adorned with skeletal bones, skeletal hands as well as severed arms and hands as her ornamentation. She has a gaping mouth, and her red, bloody tongue hanging from there.

2. Tara is guide and protector, or Who Saves, Who offers the ultimate knowledge which gives salvation. She is the goddess of all sources of energy. She has three eyes, a snake coiled comfortably around her throat, wearing the skins of tigers, ornamented with a garland of skulls.

 

3. Tripura Sundari (Shodashi) with molten gold complexion is "Beautiful in the Three Worlds" (Supreme Deity of Srikula systems) and is the "Tantric Parvati" or the "Moksha Mukta". She has three placid eyes, a calm mien, wearing red and pink vestments, adorned with ornaments on her divine limbs and four hands, each holding a goad, lotus, bow and arrow. She is seated on a throne.

4. Bhuvaneshvari is personification of World Mother, or Whose Body is all 14 lokas (whole cosmos). Attired in red and yellow garments, decorated with ornaments on her limbs, she has four hands, and is seated on a celestial throne. With a fair, golden complexion, she embodies three content eyes as well as a calm mien.

5. Bhairavi is the fierce Goddess, a female version of Bhairav. She is of a fiery, volcanic red complexion, with three, furious eyes, and disheveled hairs. Decked with snakes and serpents, she wears a belt decorated with severed hands and bones attached to it. 

6. Chhinnamasta is the self-decapitated Goddess, who chopped her own head off in order to satisfy Jaya and Vijaya (metaphors of Rajas and Tamas - part of the trigunas). She is of a red complexion, embodied with a frightful appearance. She is mounted upon the back of a ferocious lion and wears a garland of skulls on her body. 

7. Dhumavati (The Goddess) is depicted as a combined source of anger, misery, fear, exhaustion, restlessness, constant hunger and thirst. She wears white clothes, donned in the attire of a widow. With a very smoky dark brown complexion, she is sitting in a horseless chariot as her vehicle of transportation and on top of the chariot, there is an emblem of a crow as well as a banner. 

8. Bagalamukhi is the Goddess who paralyzes enemies. She has a molten gold complexion with three bright eyes, lush black hair and a benign mien. She is seen wearing yellow garments and apparels. She is shown seated on either a throne or on the back of a crane.

9. Matangi, also known as tantric Saraswathi, who bestows boons to her devotees, is said to be the Prime Minister of Lalita (in Srikula systems). Seated on a royal throne, she is depicted as emerald green in complexion, with lush, disheveled black hairs, three placid eyes and a calm look on her face. She is seen wearing red garments and apparels and bedecked with various types of ornaments all over her delicate limbs. 

10. Kamalatmika (Kamala) is the lotus goddess, the "Tantric Lakshmi". She is seated on a fully bloomed lotus and has four hands, two of which held lotuses while two others grants her devotees' wishes and assures protection from fear. She is seen wearing red and pink garments and apparels and bedecked with various types of ornaments and lotuses all over her limbs.

These "Ten Mahavidya" forms are worshipped in a spirit of reverence, love, and increasing intimacy. For a devotee seeking knowledge, these forms can represent various states of inner awakening along the path to enlightenment.

Everything expressed here is what has risen from my own practice of tantra, usually in times of intense clarity and insight that happen spontaneously. As with all of the paths of self-unfoldment, these insights will also evolve and refine.

The basis of these writings are the tantric practices of Tattwa Shuddhi and Sri Vidya Sadhana. Tattwa Shuddhi (literally, cleansing of elements) comprises of dissolution of elements corresponding to the various chakras into progressively subtler elements and then into the mahatattva (great element), Prakrithi (Shakti) and Purusha (Shiva). After internal cleansing rituals, the elements are returned to rest in the opposite direction.

In the “dissolution” part of this practice, it gradually becomes intuitively known that Shakti/Prakrithi is the witness, the first separation from the Absolute. Even when we become aware of “witnessing”, there is a sense that it is not all, or the final “it”.

 With deepening inquiry, one is eventually propelled to ask, “Who is aware of the witness?” and in time, we open up to the direct knowing of this awareness, that is, Purusha/Shiva. While it feels that Shakti is the “individual” witnessing principle, with a retained “I” in it, the individuality of the witness collapses as Shiva, and there is only knowing awareness that is not fixed to this and that, I and not I.

In witnessing, there remains an experience, and a knower of the experience. However, with further openings and deeper delving into this knowing awareness (Shiva, in this analogy) to be one’s true self/identity, we gradually come to see that every experience that arises is awareness itself, only seemingly separated from the knower.

 In every experience, when we look deeply, the “knower” is added ad hoc, in a swift play of illusion by the mind, the master magician. If we can stay with the experience, free from the mind’s interference, the knower is not seen to be separate, but known directly to have risen as the experience itself. Thus, Shakti is never separated from Shiva. If Shiva is the void, Shakti is what makes up the contents of the void, giving it form; yet, the void and the form are known via each other. Shakti is indeed Shiva, like the waves of the ocean being the ocean itself.

As in Tattwa Shuddhi, we then return to daily life, elements aligned once again as before. However, there is a distinct difference in how these elements are “held” in experience; they are transparent and not as solid/real as they did on the way up. The borders between “in here” and “out there” become blurred and disappear.

Along this path of openings and awakenings arise the Mahavidyas, setting the inner void ablaze with intuitive arisings and wisdom. They reveal themselves as the inner essence of time, vibration, space, silence, wisdom, compassion, oneness, dissolution, eternity, and beauty. Each of these powerful forms of Shakti is a complete path, leading to Shiva and back into Herself; each will bring the sadhaka to his/her knees in awe and surrender.

 Once during their numerous love games, things got out of hand between Shiva and Parvati. What had started in jest turned into a serious matter with an incensed Shiva threatening to walk out on Parvati. No amount of coaxing or cajoling by Parvati could reverse matters. Left with no choice, Parvati multiplied herself into ten different forms for each of the ten directions. Thus however hard Shiva might try to escape from his beloved Parvati, he would find her standing as a guardian, guarding all escape routes.

Each of the Devi’s manifested forms made Shiva realize essential truths, made him aware of the eternal nature of their mutual love and most significantly established for always in the cannons of Indian thought the Goddess’s superiority over her male counterpart. Not that Shiva in any way felt belittled by this awareness, only spiritually awakened. This is true as much for this Great Lord as for us ordinary mortals. Befittingly thus they are referred to as the Great Goddess’s of Wisdom, known in Sanskrit as the Mahavidyas. Indeed in the process of spiritual learning the Goddess is the muse who guides and inspires us. She is the high priestess who unfolds the inner truths.

According to this version, the Mahavidyas appear when the great battle queen Durga confronts the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha.

The myth of Durga's defeat of these demons constitutes the third episode of the Devi Mahatmya, which is also told in several other puranas. Although none of the texts that describe this battle mentions the Mahavidyas separately, it is known that they fight in it as a group.

The three Vedas, the oldest scriptures in the Hindu tradition, represent the three faculties of mind, speech and breath and are called Trayi Vidya or the three (feminine) wisdoms.  

 True Goddess worship involves the knowledge that is her real form. It is not just an outer cult, but an inner cult, which is meditation. Meditation on the Goddess is a form of self-enquiry or a means of acquiring knowledge. It is not merely an adulation of female form or qualities. It may begin with an image of the Goddess, but it goes far beyond the boundaries of form, name and personality into the impersonal absolute.

 The Goddess represents what is hidden, secret, subtle and sensitive. It represents what has to be researched and discovered. As the word it represents both the teaching and its understanding. It is therefore the inner power of guidance. It represents what there is to be known. What we are drawn by an inner fascination to discover. It is the mystery and fascination of higher knowledge that makes us lose interest in what the mind can know, the familiar realms of sense. The Goddess takes us beyond the realm of the known and the realm of space-time into the secrets of infinite eternity.

Knowledge of her reveals her powers that are fantastic and transformative. Understanding yours reveals happiness, which is the joy of going beyond all limitations of the body-mind.

 However, the Goddess does not just give us knowledge. She is the knowledge. Inner knowledge is the body of the Goddess, which she unfolds as her diverse adornments and eventually as her very being. Wisdom is the ultimate form of beauty and pleasure, the most sought after object in creation, and therefore the ultimate embodiment of the Divine Feminine. Ultimately, the Goddess is not just knowledge, but pure awareness (samvit). It is the knowledge that puts the mind to rest and returns us to the source. Through it we discover the serenity of the self.

 Hindu deities represent divine consciousness functioning on all levels of the universe. Both externally and internally. They represent the various principles, energies and faculties that make up this grand universe, manifest and unmanifest. The Goddess, who represents creation at all levels, have this same diversity, which is expressed through her ten wisdom forms (Dasha Mahavidya) and their different functions.

 In the process of spiritual learning the Goddess becomes the muse that guides and inspires us. She is the priestess who unfolds the inner truth. However, true knowledge as part of an integral understanding of reality is always related to energy and beauty. The Goddess is not only knowledge, but power and pleasure.

Dasha Mahavidya means 'ten Great Knowledges'. They reveal the inner workings of the universe and the psyche once the veil of appearances is pulled back. They represent the deeper truths of life hidden behind our attachment to the outer form of things. His messages are sometimes inspiring and sometimes frightening because they represent life itself, but they're always instructive for those who are looking for something beyond the common realm. The ten forms of the Goddess function not just to teach us superficially or intellectually, but to challenge us to look deeper.  

As great cosmic forces their energies can be difficult to bear and their extreme appearances can overwhelm us. Their ways are often disturbing not meant to be just pleasant. They are meant as mysteries to enter or shock the mind into awakening. They are not only meant to console and inspire, but to promote the deepest inquiry within us. Its forms are ambiguous, contradictory and paradoxical. They are provocative energies meant to take hold of our minds and through their enigmatic nature neutralize the thought process that holds us captive. Life itself is something amazing and mysterious. We don't know why we were born or when we will die. We don't even know how to move, breathe or drink. Most of what we are looking for is only transitory and does not answer the fundamental question of our destiny: what, if anything, in us transcends death.

 Our knowledge only grasps the surface of the world, and we don't have any last tour sense of identity. To approach higher knowledge we must set aside our lesser knowledge, which is not to reject it completely, but to recognize its limited place. The wisdom forms of the Goddess are part of a spiritual science, which we can analyse only when we have set aside our outer knowledge and are hungry for information and ideas.

However, this spiritual science is also an art. It cannot be approached mechanically, but it does require creative participation. We must become that reality and experience within us all its manifold dimensions. We must become the Goddess as her power comes to work through us. This form of Yoga knowledge is a theater or play in the mind. It contains all life and the entire universe as it flows through our nervous system. It is perhaps the ultimate of all experiences, as by experience itself it is dissolved in the transcendent.

 Each of the ten forms of the Goddess represents a specific approach to self-realization, to the knowledge that within us transcends time and transient identity. However, each of the 10 has many layers within it. Unless we are willing to look deeply, we can get caught up in a minor aspect of Goddess form and function.

As representatives of powerful cosmic forces, the Goddesses can be approached to obtain wealth, health, fame, or other common goals in life. However, if we approach them with selfish intent, their inner powers cannot come out. We cannot manipulate these deep cosmic forces. We can only benefit from them if we honor the wisdom at their source.

 Therefore, these forms of knowledge should not be approached lightly or casually. For them to really work, we must first surrender to the Divine Mother herself and earn her grace. It is your power, your Shakti Yoga that does the work. We can be receptive to its current and learn its rhythms, but we cannot direct its flow. We must not try to use the teachings of personal obstinacy, or they will not be liberating for us. The Ten Forms of the Goddess make up a complete and integral teaching, but several of them have their special worship as representing the Supreme Mother Herself.

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Authored by Dr Anadi Sahoo

Creation is neither good nor bad; it is as it is.

The Master's Voice 25

Once a disciple asked The Master, whether the world was created for happiness or misery. All eyes turned

towards The Master for the answer.

The Master answered, "Creation is neither good nor bad; it is as it is. It is our mind which puts all sorts of permutations and combinations on it, as it sees things from its own perspective. How much will it suit our own interests.

A woman is just a woman, but one mind calls her “mother,” another “sister,” and still another “aunt” and so on. 

Men love women, hate snakes, and are indifferent to the grass and stones by the roadside. 

These attachments are the causes of all the misery in the world.

Creation is like a tree: Birds eat fruits and take shelter under its branches, men cool themselves in its shade, but some may hang themselves on it. Yet the tree continues to lead its quiet life, unconcerned with, and unaware of, all the uses it is put to.

It is our mind that creates its own difficulties and then cries for help. The Lord is not partial as to give peace to one person and sorrow to another. In creation there is room for everything, but man refuses to see the good, the healthy and the beautiful, and goes on whining, like the hungry man who sits beside a tasty dish and, instead of stretching out his hand to satisfy his hunger, he goes on lamenting."

It is our sense of Discrimination which fails us, simply because we are laced in the pains and pleasures of the world.

The Master said, "Whose fault is it, The Lord’s or ours? But fortunately for us, The Lord, in His infinite mercy, never forsakes us. The Lord always gives us new chances by providing Gurus and Scriptures to guide us to find the errors and start using our Vivek. This will enable us to ultimately gain eternal happiness."

The disciple further asked, "We know that the pleasures of this world are useless and even painful, yet we long for them. What is the way of ending that longing?"

The Master explains, "A Life in the Remembrance of The Lord, True Prayer and doing Meditation, will gradually drop our worldly attachments. We will slowly start to Live in The Lord's Will. But, If we will wait till all our desires disappear to start our devotion and pray, our wait could be very,

very long time indeed."

The Master, in each and every discourse and inter action, comes down to our consciousness level so that we can understand it easily and put it into action. It is The Master's Grace which allows us to use the sense of Discrimination, Vivek. The Master comes down to take us up towards His Level of Consciousness. He makes our path easy.

Our Vivek will take us to the path of Living in The Master's Will, if we will keep our Prayers on and do meditation. 

Authored by K. Giri

Hold on to The Master. Live in The Master's Will.

The Master's Voice 26

One day, a Disciple went to The Master and asked, "All the scriptures that have to be read, I have read.

All the mantras and japa that have to be done, I have done.

Still I have no peace. Please save me."

The Master took a little time. There was complete Silence, and in the silence, The Master was gazing at the disciple.

Subsequently, The Master said, "If one keeps watching at the progress made by us,

the mind is absorbed in That Process; This is tapas.

When you are reciting a mantra, You are involved in trying to find from where the sound is coming from? The answer is, It is coming from

within you.

When you sing a Bhajan or do prayer, you watch where it is emanating from? It is coming from your Heart.

We need to put our attention on that, our Soul or The Heart, within us, not outside.

When this happens, We sacrifice our Ego, as mind becomes busy in the process, that is antar Tapasya, here both the Soul and Mind are totally focussed on the Simran/ Japam. We start to feel The peace and bliss."

The Saints say, "Reading of scriptures and books on spirituality is good. It will help us in orienting our focus towards The Lord. It can make us curious and inquisitive to know about The Lord and our relationship with The Lord."

Like a child wanting to become a cricket player will have to go to a cricket ground, meet a coach who is an expert in this field. Again just meeting is not sufficient. Learning from the coach, implementing the knowledge in Action and working on correcting mistakes are important to reach the goal, that is, to become a cricket player.

Similarly, with the Grace of The Master, when we put the knowledge gained from books in practice, there shall be progress.

The Master's say, "The purpose of Simran/Japam and Mantra is to purify our Soul. As the Simran/Japam intensifies, the Concentration also gets consolidated on One. The intensity is such that our Antar Simran/Japam and Antar Dhyan is ignited. Once we take off in this path, then only, we can reach The Supreme Soul."

An aeroplane before take off speeds on the runway to gain momentum to lift up. Once in the air, the tyres go inside and aeroplane is on flight mode.

Similarly, the intensity created by the Simran or Japam with mind fully involved in it, enables the mind to withdraw like the tyres, on elevation. Then it is The Master and The Soul immersed in The Antar Simran and Antar Bhajan. Once, We are connected to The Master, the Supreme Consciousness is awakened inside us. We are at Peace, enjoying the bliss, thanks to The Master's Grace.

Thus for us Disciples, it is very simple.

Hold on to The Master. 

Live in The Master's Will. 

Live in Remembrance of The Lord, as much as possible. 

Do Meditation. 

Then the Peace will be all ours. 

Authored by K. Giri