vicharsetu jan 13b

7/30/2019 Vicharsetu Jan 13b

1/39Vicharasethu - January - 2013

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N a r a y a n a s h r a m a T a p o v a n a m

Venginissery, Paralam, P.O. Ammadam, Thrissur.

Kerala 680 563, India. Tel. (0487) 2277963/2278302/2278363email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.swamibhoomanandatirtha.org

Contents

Samatva-buddhi 03

Verses for Introspection 26

How to remove Sorrow and Delusion M Gurupriy 10

Days in USA - III M Gurupriy 13

About the book In the Company of my LordExcerpts from the responses of some devotees and seekers,

with an introductory note by Poojya Swamiji. 17

Back to Eternity

Ajit Banerjee (Jamshedpur) 25

Rajiv Ramachandran (Mumbai)

News & Notes 29

i v Hixp *i ni Sifii iiIhni **

Yoga-vsiha

Nirva Prakaraam, Prvrdham 39.56

Equanimity or equal vision is sweet and tasteful; its essence hasthe power to lift one beyond the senses. When this outlook is

imbibed, the visible world (cetyam) instantly gets transformed into

nectar.



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Samatva-buddhi

[Essence of Poojya Swamijis message during night-satsang at Vijna Bhavan, 14

September 2009.]

Equal vision

Hari Om Tat Sat. Jai Guru. Today, I shall tell

you something very important about the sdhan

that all of you are engaged in. I have been

thinking about it from three angles how to make

you aware as to what sdhan is, how to make

you pursue it with greater intensity, and thirdly,

how to make the practice endearing and easy.

Our Unnikrishnan and Siva (of Malaysia) were asking me: Swamiji, you

are saying that life is always one of interactions. The interactions take

place at the level of the senses. During the process we get two experiences

happiness and unhappiness. They have to be looked at equally. Our

question is: Are they not opposite in nature? Then how to make them

equal?

It is a very good question. First of all, you must understand and also

agree that it is possible to make the responses equal. Samatva-buddhi

should be the focus and the goal. Secondly, you should be earnest about

and deeply interested in attaining the samatva-state. Only then, thequestion of proceeding towards the goal need be discussed.

Now, I am wondering: could it be that some of you are thinking that

Swamiji is simply using some clever words? So, tell me: do you really

want to attain the state of equanimity? Because, unless you see the truth

in this, this knowledge will not get imbibed by you.

How to make youpursue your saadhana

with greaterintensity, and how to

make the practiceendearing and easy.



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Mind the source, sustainer and terminus of interactions

Let me explain. Is it not a fact that life is full of interactions,and these

interactions take place at the level of senses? During the interactions, the

objects do nothing; everything is done by our senses. Is it not?

Yes.

My dear children, this is where you are all likely to fail in catching the

point. You will readily say yes, but I am afraid you will still miss the

focus. So, be attentive to what I am saying.

See, here is a desk. In my seeing this desk, what does the desk have todo? Nothing! Look at the sun. The sun is at such a great distance, and it

is so huge. But in the process of my seeing the sun, the sun has no role

to play! The poor sun does not even know that I am seeing him! I see

the sun. The sun does nothing. The whole interaction is my own creation.

So, we can say that in general, the objects being inert, simply lend

themselves to be perceived.

Perception itself has two stages. Physically, it takes place at the sensory

level. But it has to be sought and initiated by the mind. The senses are

only instrumental. They are part of the biological body. They cannot have

likes and dislikes. Suppose a person dies. His cornea can be taken out

and grafted onto a blind person. And the blind starts seeing. What does

it mean? The mind is necessary for the cornea to function. It simply goes

to prove that the senses have limited functionality it is the mind that

actually sees and interacts.

This mind is completely different from the biological aggregate called body.

It is the mind that initiates interaction. How does it initiate? The mind

feels: I want to see. That feeling becomes the propulsion for animating

and activating the senses. It is not that every time the mind has to say, I

want to see; it becomes a spontaneous function of the mind. Then

immediately the impulse is carried to the eye-lids. The eyes open. They



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are focused on the objects and then perception takes place.

Understand that the initiation is by the mind. And while seeing is going

on, the process cannot be disconnected from the mind. So, the mind is the

source and also the sustainer of perception. While seeing, the perception

is registered and remembered by the mind.

Why am I explaining this with so much detail? Because, I want you to

understand that your sdhan starts at this point. If everything is taking

place in the mind-level, where is the question of your seeking anything

external for making your sdhan effective? Throughout your sdhan,

you need nothing other than your mind!

Are you following me? See, when you grasp this knowledge, please make

the knowledge your own. You should apply the theory to practice and

make it functional in your life.

See, the world is plural and the objects are many. But, all the infinite

variety is made of only five kinds of perceptions, taking place through

the five senses. And when they enter the mind, all these have only twooutcomes in the mind pleasant and unpleasant.

The pleasantness or unpleasantness is not created by anything outside. It

is minds own creation. The mind chooses to interact with the world and

thereby generates the twin notions of pleasantness and unpleasantness.

Even when there is no object, the mind may bring in a thought and create

pleasantness; and later, it may recall another thought, which may be

unpleasant. Here, the thought is created by the mind and the pleasantness

or unpleasantness is also minds offshoot. During the interaction with

the external world, the objects become instrumental in producing these

twin emotions. In both cases, the mind is the author of happiness and

misery.

The mind-substance

Now, your question is: How to evenize happiness and misery, or how to



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make them light?

Impress upon your intelligence one important

conclusion we just made. What is that? Happiness

and misery are minds creations. The content of

happiness or the content of unhappiness is no

other than the mind. Understand this well.

By the word content, I do not mean what it contains. I am not saying

what the thought is about or should be about. Let it be anything. We are

not discussing the object of thought. Rather, we are interested to know

what thought is made of the very substance out of which the thing ismade. That is what I mean by content. We generally use the word

substance to mean something material. Here I am using the same word

to focus on something non-material what thought is made of.

For example, think of the sea. There are waves. There are ripples. What is

the content of the waves or the ripples? Is it not water alone? So, we can

say that the substance of waves and the ripples is water alone. When

you see the waves, you know that the substance of wave is water.

In the same manner in the happiness or unhappiness, what is the

actual substance involved? Is it not the mind alone?

So what is the message in all this? Dont be swept

away by happiness or unhappiness but be

anchored in the content or substance of both!

Meaning be aware that it is just a display of the

mind alone. If the substance in both happiness or

unhappiness is the same the mind alone why should you prefer one

or dislike another?

My dear children, what I am saying is so simple that anyone can practise

it and make the practice a success. Where is the difficulty I cannot

understand.

The content ofhappiness or the

content ofunhappiness is no

other than the mind.

Be anchored in thecontent or

substance of bothhappiness orunhappiness.



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Think of fire. Is it not always hot? Can it ever be cold? Can ice be hot?

But, here is a peculiar situation where the mind by virtue of its supra-

material nature has the potential to give you this dual and opposing

concept of happiness and misery. How can the same mind producehappiness and unhappiness? Well, that is its supra-material potential. It

is its power. That is why you will find that the mind suddenly becomes

miserable, and after some time, the same mind becomes happy.

Actually, the mind remains as mind in both the cases. That dual notion is

a mere delusional display. When you understand the truth about

happiness and unhappiness that the content of happiness and that of

unhappiness is the same, your flair for one or dislike for the other will

automatically dwindle.

You are now thinking about the objects and evaluating your life in terms

of the objects of the world. Instead, you must be able to say: The objects

do nothing. It is my mind that interacts with the objects of the world.

And in interaction, the starting point is the mind, the middle point is the

mind and the end point is also the mind. The objects are like the walkingstick. The walking stick never walks our legs do the walking. This

understanding will take you to an unassailable position. Have you

understood?

In this way, if you keep enquiring about the mind,

automatically, you will gain inner harmony. You

will stop getting elated by one or depressed by

another. You will experience lightness in both. You

were asking me: Swamiji, how to make it even and

how to be light? What is the way? I am now telling you: This is the

way! By repeatedly contemplating on these lines, you will be able to rise

above dualities of happiness and misery. You would then reach that

transcendental level. Rising above both should be your mantra! Not

getting overpowered by either of them!

By repeatedlycontemplating onthese lines, you

will be able to riseabove dualities.



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The fleeting nature of happiness & misery

Now, I would like you to look at the whole thing from another point. Sri

Krishna tells Arjuna:

j{i Exi ihJn:Jn:*+M{x%xiiiiI i**

(Bhagavadgeet 2.14)

Interactions between the senses and the objects (mtr-spar)

give rise to happiness and misery for the mind, like cold and heat

for the body. They come and go, being ephemeral. Forbear them, O

Arjuna.

Krishna is saying that happiness and misery are fleeting they come

and go. Understand that they are complementary to each other. For

happiness to be born, the unhappiness has to end. That means, prior to

happiness, unhappiness was there. Is it not then true that it is

unhappiness that gives rise to happiness? Again, happiness ends after

sometime and gives rise to unhappiness. So, if happiness depends on

unhappiness and vice versa, why do you dislike one and like another?

Can you have happiness alone? No! Why? Because it is fleeting, anitya.

Then why should you hold on to it? Even if you want it, it will not stay

forever. Should you be afraid of unhappiness? No! Why? Because, that

also is fleeting. After sometime, it will go away and bring happiness.

When you think like this, sdhan becomes very easy and facile. All that

you have to do is keep thinking about it. This contemplation should

become your habit. Whenever you do a work, are you not thoughtful

about your work? Here, you have to be thoughtful about your sdhan.

During the day, whatever you do should contribute to your sdhan. Be

aware that sdhan is your focus. You may be caught up in your work,

but in between, again and again this idea should come to you. This kind

of thoughtfulness will intensify your pursuit.



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First of all, do sufficient listening so that you will assimilate the knowledge.

It should become your own knowledge. That means, you should be able

to apply it any time in any situation. Not only will your sdhan then

become facile, it will also be an endearing source of joy and fulfillment.

Hari Om Tat Sat. Jai Guru.

Equal vision implies resting in Brahman

In Bhagavadgeet, Krishna crowns smya (equal vision) as the

pinnacle of spiritual, religious, philosophical and yogic life:



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Verses for Introspection 26

How to remove Sorrow and Delusion

M Gurupriy

REix Mxxxi:ix x {*| Sk vxil i%E%ii:**sakrtyamno bhagavn-ananta:rutnubhvo vyasana hi pusm ,

praviya citta vidhunoty-aeayath tamorkobhram-ivtivta:.

reemadbhgavatam 12.12.47

The Lord, who is worthy of being extolled, the Infinite Being, who

makes His presence felt to those who hear His praises, entering

the mind of the devotee completely shakes off (dispels) the sorrows,

just as the sun removes darkness, and strong wind clears theclouds.

Points for Introspection

Life in this world is full of tension, anxiety and fear. However much one

may have wealth, prosperity, name, fame and recognition, he is never

satisfied. He suffers from anger, irritation, dislike, jealousy etc., and is

always discontented. Even if there is no apparent reason for sorrow, onesmind becomes sorrowful for most trivial reasons.

While the mind undergoes affliction and lack of

contentment on account of various reasons, and feels

burdened and unhappy, the same mind feels light,

happy and divine when one goes to a temple and

worships, sits in his own pooja-room and prays,

sings bhajans and chants Gods names, or sits in meditation contemplating

Whenever the mindfocuses exclusively

on God, the mindforgets its miseries

and sorrows.



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on the beautiful form of God. That is, whenever the mind focuses exclusively

on God, the mind forgets its miseries and sorrows.

Our scriptures say that in order to transcend misery, delusion and fear,

one must develop exclusive devotion towards the supreme Lord. In order

to cultivate exclusive devotion, one must think of the Lord continuously,

sing His names repeatedly and remember His exploits and excellences

lovingly. As devotion deepens in the mind, the mind becomes full with

one-pointed love for God. Proportionately, the devotees mind withdraws

from clinging to worldly affairs; seeking happiness from worldly objects

becomes meaningless. Instead, his mind starts deriving delight from

within, i.e. from his own heart where he now feels constantly the presence

of the infinite Lord, who is all-pervading.

The mind, which was heavy and burdened with sorrow and affliction,

which saw only darkness around, now clears up. It starts feeling the

constant presence of the supreme Lord within the Lord who protects

and is all-compassionate. Ignorance disappears from the mind, just as

the darkness of night disappears when the sun rises in the horizon.

This loka says that when a devotee continuously sings the name of the

infinite Lord and hears recitals about Him, Lord enters his heart and

purifies it of all negative and impure traits. Just as the sun removes

darkness of the night, and strong wind clears up heavy clouds from the

sky, the remembrance of the supreme Lord removes darkness of sorrow

and delusion from the devotees mind. His presence clears up all doubts

that make the mind clouded.

Chanting this loka fervently and repeatedly generates an inspiration to

sing and chant Gods name lovingly, so that the mind always feels

divinity.



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Word Meaning

REix: (sakrtyamna:) = One who is worthy of being extolled;Mx(bhagavn) = Lord; +xxi: (ananta:) = the Infinite Being; ix:

(rutnubhva:) = One who makes His presence felt to those whohear about Him;x (vyasana) = sorrow, distress; (hi) = indeed;

{ (pus) = of human beings;| (praviya) = having entered;Sk (citta) = mind;vxi (vidhunoti) = shakes off/dispels completely;+ (aea) = entirely, completely; l (yath) = just as; i:(tama:) = darkness; +E: (arka:) = the Sun; + (abhram) = clouds;



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Days in USA - III

(Continued from December issue. E-mails sent from USA to the Ashram, during the

CIRD-NA Jna Yaja.)

M Gurupriy

7. 10. 2012 (Sunday), Virginia

Yesterday was the Viusahasranma Yaja. It went off very well. Nobody

could imagine that it was conducted for the first time here. Everything

was so well organized. How many phone calls and video conversations

were made with us while we were in the Ashram to understand thedetails of the Yaja, and how meticulously the instructions have been

implemented!

The hall in the Durga Temple looked so bright and sublime! The shining

brass lamps decorated with kumkum were placed in rows on vedees

(bases) with colourful rangoli made of kumkum, turmeric powder and

rice powder. Each lamp represented Lord Mahviu who would be

propitiated to come into our midst. When we entered the hall, we could

see the efforts of the devoted hearts who had worked tirelessly the previous

day to transform the hall into a beautifully decorated divine Yajala,

where Lord Vishnu would descend.

And The Lord did descend! As the archan went on with offering of

flowers amidst the soulful chanting of the Lords name calling out to

Him with love and devotion, the whole Yajala became charged with

devotion. One could feel the presence of the Lord, smiling and

compassionate, everywhere and in ones own heart. Many were

overwhelmed, and considered it to be a great fortune to have witnessed

or taken part in this great Yaja.

This evening started Poojya Swamijis 3-day discourse on Quietitude of

the mind.

With love, M



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8. 10. 2012 (Monday), Virginia

I am wondering what to write today. As I sit with my laptop, I often look

through the window. Cars pass by every now and then, mostly with only

one occupant the one who drives. In most of the streets of this country,

one hardly sees people walking on the roads. However, here in this locality,

quite often, especially in the evenings, I see people walking, taking children

in prams, occasionally with the older child trotting along. I see people

taking their dogs out for a walk. As days pass, with the fall having set

in, some of the trees look extremely beautiful with their leaves changing

colour!

Yesterday, in the garden of the opposite house, there was a lot of activity

going on. The parents and their two little sons were busy putting up

cobwebs and skeletons in the garden, preparing for the approaching

Halloween, which falls on 31st October. Last year we had witnessed

Halloween here. I was quite happy to see a local festival.

There is a National Park very near to Pankaj-Anus house. The Great

Falls National Park. On 3rd October, that is the day after our return from

California, Pankaj decided to take us there in the morning. The day was

very pleasant. Nutan Swamiji, Pankaj, Anu and Swati had already visited

this Park while we were in California. So, now, Poojya Swamiji, Mala

and myself went to see the park.

When we got down at the parking lot, Pankaj told us that we have to

walk a bit in order to have a good view. Although not sure whether Iwould be able to walk that much, I started along with the others. Very

soon I understood that it was impossible for me to walk further because

the terrain was quite uneven. Feeling sorry that others would be in trouble

because of me, I stopped, only to find that we had stopped in front of a

notice board that read: Wheel chairs are available at the Visitors Center.

We were so relieved and happy! I have of course accepted the fact that in

this life I will not be able to see any museum or any such place where lotof walking is involved!



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Great Falls has a breath-taking view. Here the Potomac river, which flows

through Washington DC, builds up speed as it falls over a series of steep,

jagged rocks and flows through a narrow gorge. The river here was a

trading place for American Indians and early colonists. In 1784, ThePatowmack Company was constituted to construct a series of five canals

in order to make the river navigable. For years, this canal system was

used to carry goods to far away places, till rails, roads and newer modes

of transportation took over.

We went to three different overlook-points to have a view of this wonderful

beauty of Nature from different angles. Seeing the river flowing past the

rocks with great speed and making a sound which belonged to Nature, I

was reminded of Mother Ganga flowing through huge rocks in Uttarkashi

and higher up. In most of our rivers flowing down from the Himalayas,

we associate divinity and holiness. Is that the case here too, I wondered!

There are huge trees on the two banks of the river. When we look far

away, the trees almost form a green semicircle at a distance. With the

advent of the fall, the semicircle has already taken the tinge of yellow,orange, red and maroon, appearing to be a beautifully coloured canvas.

How beautiful this place will look in the peak of the fall, I tried to imagine!

I have always loved Nature dearly. In the lap of Nature, I feel one with

God. In reality it does not make any difference whether we are in the

midst of Nature at one place or another, with different scenic views at

different places. In the midst of Nature alone, wherever it is, we find God

effortlessly; we can see His smiling face bending down in love, embracing

His whole creation. In the silent communion with Nature, we realize that

He, who is our Antartm (inner Self), alone is everywhere covering and

encompassing everything.

9. 10. 2012 (Tuesday), Virginia

Time is fast approaching to start back for our Ashram. Today was the

concluding day of Poojya Swamijis talk. Also it was the last occasion to



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be with the devotees and seekers here. Tomorrow there is no announced

satsang as such. And, day after tomorrow early in the morning, we leave

for India. Although everybody was transported to a totally blissful state

during the lecture, there was a note of sadness in every devotees mind.Nobody seemed to be ready to leave the venue even though it was getting

late. Many were seen talking to each other discussing about the lectures,

the Viusahasranma Yaja, and also the smooth and orderly conduct

of all the programmes. Quite a few devotees surrounded Poojya Swamiji,

Nutan Swamiji or me just to be around, with hearts full of love. The

whole atmosphere was filled with a spiritual bond, a closeness that

belonged to the Soul.

This year, Poojya Swamijis visit in the US has brought about this

togetherness amongst the devotees a feeling of oneness with each other

and a belonging to the great heritage. Throughout the three weeks,

everyone looked forward to reaching the venues to be together and bathe

in the continuous flow of spirituality. By Gurus grace, may this inspiration

become a constant companion of every devotee, enabling them to transcend

constrictions of the mind, to find God and divinity everywhere.

10. 10. 2012 (Wednesday), Virginia

Today is an extremely busy day. Although I want to write, I dont think I

will be able to write much. Right from morning, devotees stepped in to

take leave and take Poojya Swamijis blessings. In the evening, all the

core group devotees sat around Poojya Swamiji and listened to his

instructions regarding sdhan, regarding the qualities each seeker must

cultivate in order to strengthen the group.

While moving back and forth between sitting in the meeting and packing

the bags, I was thinking how three years ago, a handful of Poojya

Swamijis disciples joined together to bring Swamiji to this country so

that the residents of this country would have an opportunity to be exposed

to the great spiritual treasure. It has not been easy at all, as their number



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was really very small. But their great love for their Master and a greater

yearning to reach out Poojya Swamijis message to people of USA made

them take up this great societal endeavour.

My heart was becoming full with emotions as I looked at the group. More

devotees have joined the group now and all are ready to do anything to

further the cause taken up by Poojya Swamiji. How much everybody has

worked with full soul and heart in the last few months, so that everything

went off well!

And that is the case in all our Centres world over. Mentally, in a flash, I

made a tour of all the Centres. Everybodys face came to my mind. Howat each place, the devotees and disciples have taken up the Mission of

reaching out Poojya Swamijis message to more and more people! We are

a big spiritual family indeed, under the caring shade of our beloved

Master!

Above everything, my dear children, there remain thoughts about you

you who have left everything in life, your home and the so-called

enjoyments; you who have dedicated the whole being in the service of the

Master, seeking nothing in return, who from early morning till late night,

often foregoing rest and sleep, look after the smooth running of the

Ashram, which is the Guru himself.

I think about you quite a lot. I think about you with love and fondness;

also with concern. My prayers remain at the feet of our Master. May you

all be blessed by Poojya Swamiji so that each one of you shines withyour own spiritual splendour transcending all smallness, constriction of

mind, and ignorance, expanding into the universal-ness that our Master

is.

With Love, M

(Concluded)

* * *



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About the bookIn the Company of my Lord

[Excerpts from the responses of some devotees and seekers,

with an introductory note by Poojya Swamiji.]

To be born to good, noble, intelligent and resourceful parents is a

rare fortune. Such an enriching birth is the best gift for anyone to

begin life on this earth. The mind of such a one usually grows

with the ambition to achieve the external gross merits and glory.

But Ms academic life of excellence was characterised by an

unusual introvertness, with a touch of despair and inner heaviness,

making her wonder what would fill her with the hope and promise

the heart looked for. Though amiable and seemingly cheerful with

friends, she could not conceal her inner thirst. What and where

reigned the One beyond the visible allurements?

As her research in Physics progressed, she felt the hearts search

even deeper and more persistent. It is a fact, though not recognized,that any research, if devout, cannot ignore the inner Subject, the

one Source, from where proceed all external research and findings.

The real fulfillment for the dedicated human intelligence always

lies in the Subject research and discovery, where alone the source

of creation and sustenance shines with sovereign splendour.

Nurtured with usual Bengali customs of worship and a flair for

pilgrimage, M grew an intriguing fondness for Posha, the idol (a

small stone from the Amarganga river) she got during her Amarnath

pilgrimage. But the description she gives as to how her heart outlived

the stone-Posha, on finding the true inner anchor, is an enlightening

guide to all devotees and worshippers. It is equally illumining to all

spiritual seekers and enquirers as well. How to get to the company

of the Lord, and how to make the bond ceaseless is the one theme of

her writing, which led to the title I gave to the book.



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Far from the usual biographical accounts, In the Company of My

Lordis a touching, personal, factual rendering of Ms feelings and

thoughts, and how they led her to find the unfailing refuge in the

spiritual Teacher, who alone can take the position of God the solereliance and focus of seekers. What can such a spiritual relationship

mean, how does it lead the seeker, where and how the mind finds

its spiritual fulfillment these and allied questions have satisfying

answers in Ms narrative.

No wonder, those who read the book find a special relevance and

application of the message to their life and sdhan. The narrative,

though written two decades back, moved to the press only recently.

Excerpts from the responses of some, who read the narrative, are

reproduced below. This will tell you directly how the writing has

impacted their minds and hearts. Seekers and spiritual students

will do well to read the book, to intensify their search and sdhan.

Swamiji

* * *

18 October 2012

Beloved and Respected Mtji:

Hari OM. My humble prams to you. Wishing to thank you most

wholeheartedly for the kind gift of your book, In the Company of My

Lord. What a divine title, and even more divine concept.

It gives so many insights, and reinforces so many memories, of the time

when I was serving our Master. How hard it was when he sent me back

to serve the ashram, with the words The entire ashram is my body. You

explain so well how the devotee is not just to serve the ashram for the

Master, but serve the ashram asthe Master. Oh, and you reminded me of

the time I was washing windows while Gurudev was out, and when he

came in he told me: When you clean my windows you are cleaning

your own mind. Such simple sentences, and with your own experience



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you bring out the depth behind them. A thousand thank yous for giving

the book, but even more for writing the book.

The example of how to live each moment as a bhakta, how to serve with

love, and how to keep the flame of aspiration burning (and the role

suffering plays in it) is invaluable. Plus, having been privileged to meet

both the author and the Master personally, I take great delight in these

stories.

Kindly extend my prams to Swamiji Maharaj. When I came last time I

wanted to say some words as I took leave, but his face was so radiant

and his eyes so aglow, with his hand raised in blessing, there wasnothing to say. Better to simply take that image with me.

And lastly, both Sr Mukti and I almost floated back to Yogaville after the

Mah Viu Sahasranma Yaja! Fortunately, we remembered we had to

take the car with us. It was such a sublime and uplifting experience, we

can never forget. We are so grateful for that as well.

Please excuse my taking so much of your time here. No reply is needed.Mainly, I just want to say Thank You to you, Nutan Swamiji, Swamiji

Maharaj, and Namrata for coming such a very long way and giving all

that you have.

OM Shantih. With all my love, prayers and gratitude.

Swamini Sharadananda, Yogaville, USA

* * *

08 November 2012

Namaskaaram M:

.. I read and re-read the book In the company of My Lord. Swamiji

had advised me, read the book and grow in devotion. I was

so anxious to read the book, that, the first time, I just kept on reading and

reading, even through tears and goose bumps. Then I decided I will read



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again; this time, trying to imagine the feeling you must have written each

sentence with. The narration is so informal; it feels like you are talking to

me in person. The reading itself was no less than a Spiritual journey. I

feel it is a very Sacred writing for all of us.

It gives us a glimpse of Our beloved Swamiji, that I have never known

before. Nutan Swamijis character, as described by you, explains the serene

calmness he always exhibits. Your own experiences, make us believe that

people with normal anxiety can attain the Ultimate or come close to it,

with one-pointed devotion, determination, and complete surrender to the

Lord, Guru.

I know I have gained a lot from the book. I am hoping I can also imbibe

at least a few qualities from the book and am able to progress in my

sdhan. Please bless me to keep moving forward in my practice, grow in

my Devotion.

With lots of Love and regards,

Radha (Dubai)

* * *

01 November 2012

Most Revered and Dear Mji:

As I have mentioned in my earlier mail, immediately on receipt of the

book, I have been visualizing the whole spectrum of the growth and

transformation of both Mji and Nutan Swamiji as also of the Ashram as

a whole. What a transformation not only of M & Nutan Swamijis

personal life, but also of the Ashram as a venerable institute of spiritual

learning, the world over.

The book is an excellent document. The style of narration is equally intense

and absorbing. In fact, we get a feeling that Mji herself is talking directly

to us. The interspersed narration without any chronological arrangement

adds to the beauty and naturalness of the narration, with an informal,



22

personal touch.

There are many areas which are quite touching, like the last chapter,

where Mji leaves the IIT Campus residence leaving behind a host of

plants, pets and a good lot of friends, colleagues and helping hands. It

reminds one of Shakuntalas leaving the Kanva ashram, quite touching

indeed.

In many places the personality of Nutan Swamiji comes forth quite vividly

with his piece of advice to Mji, in his usual cool and composed way, yet

with firm convictions. Very thrilling are the portions narrating the details

and significance of the Durga Pooja rituals. So also the austere, solemnand serene atmosphere of the Kailash Ashram (Rishikesh) and the sublime

experience, one could feel fully while reading the passages.

Mjis first meetings with Baba, Poojya Swamiji, Swami Harihar Tirtha

Maharaj ji and Swami Nihshreyasananda Puri Maharaj are very profound

and enlightening. In fact, every chapter and every page gives a message

for the true seekers to understand and imbibe.

I must say it is a very intimate, sincere and honest narration of the

evolution of a true seeker to the status of universal mother. Our

prostrations at the holy feet of Poojya Swamiji, Mji and Nutun Swamiji,

With profound regards, Gopalan & Nirmala (Trichi)

* * *

19 November 2012

Dear Swamiji:

Ganapathiraman and I had the good fortune to listen to the talks of Poojya

Swamiji and participate in the satsangs at Perungudi during his recent

visit to Madras. On this occasion I chanced to purchase the book In the

Company of my Lord.



23

It was so inspiring that I read it at one go. I read it again and again to

understand and assimilate certain important points conveyed by Poojya

Swamiji on sdhan, in reply to the queries of M. The clarity and

compassion with which these queries were answered over a period oftime, as and when they arose, is proof enough of the glorious Guru-iya

relationship, beyond the frontier of space and time, which enabled the

devotee and sdhaka in her, to realize the ultimate truth.

The book is verily a religious classic and is bound to benefit all the seekers

in their quest. My salutations to M, Nutan Swamiji and the great Swamiji

himself for enabling such a wonderful book to be written and published.

Prams.

TR Venkataraman (Chennai)

* * *

15 November 2012

Revered M:

How wonderful, amazingly frank and uninhibitedly in detail, you have

recorded the journey of your heart and mind. From what I can gather

from your book, I see you had this strain of viveka and vairagya from

your early childhood days, when you were exposed to the idea of

renunciation in the life of your grandmother and great grandparents and

how appreciative of their lives you were.

How beautifully Swamiji has led you on the spiritual path! He never

disturbed you in whichever state you were in, never hurried or rushed

you, but gently led you from one level of truth to the next level. Yes,

the aspiration to proceed to the goal must grow stronger, but in no way

become an obsession, a hindrance . one should learn to be as natural

as possible in this regard also.



24

How beautifully you describe your then mental condition and thoughts,

and how they were corrected or guided by Swamiji or totally sublimated.

This is a great help for many of us and couldnt be more clearly available

for our understanding. I cant help but quote, I desired to be happyalways, to have constant bliss and enthusiasm. I missed the fact that

happiness and unhappiness are indispensable complements that make

the existence of either possible.

The love, admiration and pride in seeing you arrive are great. Please

accept them. Please give Nutan Swamiji my prams and prem. He is

quiet and self-effacing and cannot be fathomed easily.

Always yours,

Aunty (Smt Lalita Sukumaran, Chennai).

* * *

When you have become a disciple and start listening to the

Guru, you do not need any other aid or support; you dont need

any other Godly blessing. The best attitude is not to look to any

other source for protection or reliance in order to speed up or

facilitate your path or any of your needs. At no point of time should

you think: I need something more than my Guru-bhakti in order

to have fulfillment, either material or spiritual.

Swamiji



25

Back to Eternity

Ajit Banerjee (Jamshedpur)

Ajit Banerjee (86) dropped his body on 03

Dec 2012. The family members were in

touch with me and the Ashram during the

last days. He was a disciple of Baba, my

Gurudev.

He was a voracious reader from his youngage, in almost all subjects on the earth. In

spite of his philosophical and spiritual

knowledge, coupled with strict religious

discipline and austerity, Ajit was still

looking for the sure path to ultimate peace

and fulfillment.

Ajit was known to Nutan Swamiji right from childhood. He was the next-

door neighbour when Nutan Swamiji was born. Nutan Swamiji says that

right from childhood, Ajit had been a philosopher and guide to him and

their family on various branches of knowledge. Later, when Nutan

Swamijis father shifted to another area, Ajit used to visit their home

every weekend and there used to be spirituo-philosophical discussion

session with all members of the family.

In 1966, during my English discourses in Jamshedpur, one day when I

came out of the lecture hall, Nutan Swamiji along with his sister and Ajit

Banerjee met me and spoke a few words. This led to Nutan Swamiji

meeting Baba later, giving a new turn to Nutans seeking.

When Nutan Swamiji, and subsequently his parents took deeksha from

Baba, Ajit also felt like having initiation from Baba. Perhaps hisphilosophical background facilitated this. Later, Ajits brother (Amiya) and



26

his family also had their deeksha from Baba.

Ajit, along with Amiya and his family, had been meeting me unfailingly

during my visits to Jamshedpur. He would listen to my discourses and

would also come to see me at the place of my residence, in spite of his

poor health. He was very fond of Nutan Swamiji and M. He has been

very happy seeing their spiritual growth culminating in renunciation.

M says that the first impression anyone would get about him was that

he was a very loving person and was always ready to help anyone in

whatever manner he could. Remaining a brahmacharin, devoted to his

mother, Ajit always shouldered the burden of the big joint family. He wasvery fortunate to have the brothers and their families take loving care of

him, especially in his old age.

He wrote to me in October 2011, expressing some doubts and resistance

he felt within himself. I had written to him:

Drop all sdhan efforts. Be free. Let anything come or go, health or

ill-health. If the plight is of the body, leave it to doctors. Be relaxed.

In disease, health, pain and pleasure, the I continues to be itself. You

were the Self, are the Self and will be the Self, despite anything. Whether

you know it or not, it is so. Any thought, assumption or assessment

about the Self, to make you feel loss, separation or distance, is uncalled

for.

I have lifted you up. You have reached the goal. Be relaxed.

After this, Ajit did not have any discomfort to relate. When we were in

Jamshedpur he came to see us. At long last, his good heart soared above

his intellect, finding the peace and restfulness long sought. Fortunate and

blessed he was.

The best that his family members can do is to remember their brothers



27

goodness and qualities, incorporate and pursue these as earnestly as they

can. This is the nitya-rddha for him.

Swamiji

* * *

Rajiv Ramachandran (Mumbai)

Birth, life, and death constitute a cycle within

Nature. Birth leads to life and life leads to

death. Death again leads to life. Each becomes

relevant only with the other. The old leaving

first is the rule. But rarely the reverse alsohappens. The young leaves first. We have no

option in the matter. We are but to witness and

accept the event wisely.

Rajiv Ramachandran (26) left his mother

suddenly in sleep in the hospital, with none

by his side, as everything seemed to be all right with him. His mother

Chandrika, a Teacher, went to him with breakfast, only to find he was

sleeping in complete peace and happiness. Doctors were there, but none

knew when or how it happened. There was no panic on his face.....

These were her words.

Rajiv had just become a doctor, wishing to serve humanity with love. But

more than the doctor and medicine, enquiry into the supreme Truth reigned

in his mind. After he had been with me for a while in Mumbai, he wroteto me listing a number of questions: I want to know. I want knowledge,

of the absolute truth. I want to realize Vedanta. Wherefrom did the I

originate? Can anything emerge from itself? Did we make God or God

made us? What is beyond all?

Of the few poems, expressing his hearts quest and findings, there is one

which reads:



28

Break me free, cut me loose

Do not bind me in this cage.

Do not tie me with the chain,

With the thread of silk.I am a bird in the sky.

When I read it, it struck me as a portent. He wrote this in May this year,

and he left in June. If thoughts and writings are any indication, Rajiv

was blessed, exceptionally so. As he slept every day, he slept that day too

in the hospital. Hospital staff had made him feel comfortable in his body.

His mind was free and light, to fly to any height. The distance to God is

zero. To the Self, still less!

None was there to make him feel bound. Unfettered, lightly and happily

he left. Spiritual grace gracing the young is far greater than gracing the

old.

The few lines he has left are sufficient for Chandrika to reflect on Rajivs

yearning and the reward he got. We miss him. But Rajiv misses nothing.

In fact, he has found what he yearned for. Chandrika is blessed to have

mothered him so well. His absence is but physical. Inwardly he is

inseparable to her as to me and others.

Mind is capable of thinking beyond its conventional notes. This is one

instance where it obliges us to do so. Let us not lack in our readiness or

will and wish. Let the bird fly in its own heights of freedom. Even if we

cannot, let us feel relief and also cheer in his flight of freedom and ecstasy.

Swamiji

* * *



29

New books released in December 2012

1. Krishna as 24 Teachers. English translation of Krishnande

24 Gurumukhagal the 10th volume in the reemad

Bhgavatam series, written in Malayalam by Poojya Swamiji.

This volume contains the beginning portion of Uddhavageet

Krishnas final spiritual gospel to mankind. Through twenty-four

Gurus, as explained by an Avadhta, Krishna discusses the eternalvalues and principles of spirituality. (Translated by Sri M.

Prabhakaran, 240 pages)

2. Worshipping the Lord Within. Based on Nirva-prakaraa

of Yoga-vsiha, contains selected articles from the serial Science

of Inner Redemption by Poojya Swamiji (being published in

Vicharasethu). 68 pages.

3. Garland of three Jewels. Based on three talks by Poojya

Swamiji Making Devotion a Treasure, Mind its Majesty

& Magnificence and Transforming Life through Spiritual

Wisdom. 96 pages.

4. Krishnan bandha-moksha-ccheppu turannappol (When

Krishna opened the box of bondage & liberation). Poojya

Swamijis 11th Malayalam book in the reemad Bhgavatamseries, released on Dec 23, during the inauguration of 11th

reemad Bhgavata Tattva Sameeksh Satram in Wadakanchery,

Thrissur. This series is an important part of Poojya Swamijis

efforts to make reemad Bhgavatam the warp and woof of our

daily life. 256 pages.

News & Notes



30

Programme Announcements

2nd Thiruvananthapuram Jna Yaja (Jan 10 13) : Poojya Swamiji

along with M Gurupriyji will leave for Thiruvananthapuram on Jan

09, and return to the Ashram on Jan 15. Pda-pooj will be conductedon Jan 10 (6:30 pm) at Pournami Mandiram, Gandhari Amman Kovil,

Puthenchanda. Poojya Swamiji will give a 3-day discourse (Jan 11-13,

6:00-7:30 pm) on Gitayile tyagakarmojjwalatha bhagavathathile

bhaktisnehaparamyatha at Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan, Nandancode.

Contacts: Brajesh Kaimal-9847066267; CIRD TVM-9400329393; R.P. Nair

(G. Kovil)-9895716541; Smt. Prasanna Dayasankar- 9495965318.

18th Annual Thrissur Geet Tattva Sameeksh (Jan 20-27) at the

Vadakkunathan Temple Sreemoolasthnam. Poojya Swamiji will speak

(in Malayalam) on the 18th chapter of Bhagavadgeet.

At the Nehru Stadium, Kochi (Jan 05) Poojya Swamiji will speak (in

Malayalam) on Sublimity & Supremacy of Devotion, on the occasion

of the 400th Sreeman Narayaneeya Mahotsavam being held there from

Dec 30 to Jan 06.

SIRD, Malaysia Programme (Feb 06-18): Swami Nirviseshananda

Tirthaji will visit SIRD (Society for Inner Resources Development),

Malaysia. Programme details will be published next month. Contact

(Malaysia): SIRD-Malaysia 603-7932-2023; Rema 601-6221-3016;

Sumesh 601-4731-9802. Sri Unnikrishnan 603-5635-8539, 601-9231-

2204 (M), Sri Jeyabalasingham 601-2316-9533 (M); (SIRD-Malaysia

new address: 23, Jalan 11/12, Section 11, 46200 Petaling Jaya. Newphone number is 603-7932-2023).

3rd Mumbai Jna Yaja (Feb 14-19): Poojya Swamiji along with

M Gurupriyji will reach Mumbai on Feb 13. Programme details are

given in the table on the next page.

Poojya Swamiji along with M will leave Mumbai for Jamshedpur on Feb

20 .



31

Contact: CIRD - Mumbai (91676 64525/ 91676 64510).

Inauguration of CIRD, Jamshedpur (Feb 23-Mar 11): From Mumbai

Poojya Swamiji along with M will arrive at Jamshedpur (via Ranchi)

on Feb 20. Nutan Swamiji will reach Jamshedpur from Kuala Lumpur

(via Kolkata) the same evening.

The inauguration of the Centre for Inner Resources Development (CIRD),

Jamshedpur will take place on Feb 23 (Saturday). The other programmes

of the Jamshedpur Jna Yaja will continue at CIRD, concluding with

the Viu Sahasranma Srvajanika Yaja on Mar 10 (morning). Most

of the programmes will be held at the new CIRD premises.

Poojya Swamiji along with Nutan Swamiji and M will leave Jamshedpur

on Mar 12, and will be back at the Ashram (via Kolkata) on Mar 14.

Contact: Sri Sujit Sengupta 94313 03590; Smt. Rumni Sengupta 94311

Date/TimeFeb 14

6.40-8.15pm

Feb 15 & 169.15-10.30am;10.45-11.45am

Feb 15-177.15-8.45pm

Feb 17(Sunday)

9.30-11.30am

Feb 18-197.15-8.45pm

ProgrammeGuru-archan

followed by PoojyaSwamijisMessage

Class by MGurupriyji &Satsang with

Poojya SwamijiPoojya SwamijisDiscourse Series

(English)

Satsang withPoojya Swamiji

followed byQ & A session

Poojya SwamijisDiscourse

(Malayalam)

VenueMaharashtra Seva

Sangh, Mulund

Maharashtra SevaSangh, Mulund

Dr. M.S.Subhalakshmi

Auditorium & Essar

Hall, Sion WestMaharashtra SevaSangh, Mulund

Sree Ayyappa VishnuTemple Powai

Mumbai Jna Yaja programme details:



32

84333; Sri P. Sarode 92345 11048; Dr. N.K. Das 92345 10650; Sri

Ajay Tiwari 92345 17924.

Programmes in Delhi (April 05 13): Poojya Swamiji along with

Swami Nirviseshananda Tirthaji and M Gurupriyaji will be in CIRD -Delhi during the 1st and 2nd weeks of April. Poojya Swamiji will

deliver the 3rd Annual Prakash Mehrotra Memorial lecture at Teen Murti

House on April 7.

Programme reports

38th Annual Delhi Jna Yaja: Poojya Swamiji accompanied by

Nutan Swamiji and M arrived in Delhi on Nov 14. Guru-archan wasperformed by Smt. Raji and Sri Gopinath on behalf of the assembled

devotees, on Nov 16.

Experiential Vedanta A Way to Transform Life

(Nov 30 Dec 2)



33

The 5-day discourse series by Poojya Swamiji, Joy of Self-Realization,

based on Avakra Samhit (Nov 17-21) was held at the Chinmaya

Mission Auditorium in Delhi. Poojya Swamijis morning classes based

on Vivekacmai were held at CIRD between Nov 23-24 & Nov 27-

29. Ms morning talks, titled Krishnas birth and ChildhoodMessage

for us were held at CIRD between Nov 18-21. Viu-Sahasranm

Srvajanika Yaja was conducted on Nov 25. A large number of devotees

participated in all the programmes.

Morning discourses by M on held at CIRD, Delhi

Krishnas Birth & Childhood Message for us (Nov 18 21)



34

On Dec 02, Poojya Swamiji spoke to the students of the Cultural Heritage

Class inspiring them to inculcate our traditional values. The children

with great love and enthusiasm chanted lokas and sang bhajans/songs.

The children received sweaters from Swamiji and were served bhakti

bhoj, specially prepared for them.

Children of the Cultural Heritage Class

being served bhakti bhoj (Dec 2)



35

The 3-day Experiential Vedanta programme was conducted by Swamiji,

Nutan Swamiji and M from Nov 30 to Dec 02 (9:30 am to 5:30 pm).

It was attended by 31 participants. Most of the participants spoke

overwhelmingly about the impact of the programme on their mind.

Poojya Swamiji and M left for the Ashram on Dec 04. Nutan Swamiji

returned on Dec 16.

Sdhan ibiram: Dec 14 21. Sixteen seekers from SIRD Malaysia

participated in the intense sdhan ibiram held in the Ashram from

Dec 14 to 21. Apart from the lecture and Q-A sessions by Poojya

Swamiji, Nutan Swamiji and M, there were sessions for group

discussions and self-introspection.

Participants of Sdhan ibiram (from SIRD Malaysia)

with Poojya Swamiji,

Nutan Swamiji, M and other Ashramites (Dec 14 21)



36

Mtji Sulabh Devis 23rd Mahsamdhi day was commemorated

on Dec 17. Pda-pooj was performed by Dr. Smt. Sharena and Dr

Nyanaveelan from Malaysia. Thereafter, both Poojya Swamiji and M

spoke about the intense devotion Mtji Sulabhdevi had towards God.

Led by Poojya Swamiji, all the devotees moved in a procession to

Samdhi Mandir. Devotees offered flowers at Mtjis Samdhi. About

220 people partook of the bhakti-bhojanam. In the evening, 3 kg of

rice was distributed to 100 selected needy families.

Dr. Nyanaveelan & Dr. Sharena from Malaysia performing Pda pooj on

Mahsamdhi Day of Mtji Sulabh Devi (Dec 17)



37

Devotees from Malaysia participating in packing the

Malayalam journal Vicharasarani (Dec 20)

11th reemad Bhgavata Tattva Sameeksh Satram is being held in

Naimishrayam, Paralikad (Thrissur), from Dec 23, 2012 to Jan 01,

2013. About 30 exponents are giving talks, highlighting the values

presented in the Text. Bhat Srvajanika Mah-Mtyujaya Homam was

held on Dec 23. Viu-sahasra-nma Srvajanika Mah-yaja will be

conducted on Jan 01, 2013, the concluding day of the Satram.



38

Viu-Sahasranma-Srvajanika Yaja

at CIRD, Delhi (Nov 25)


39/39

39

What is this worldliness? What has become the world? The

answer can only be it is God that appears as world before us.

This worldliness is actually Godliness itself. If a devotee can bring

about this point of view, and then go on perceiving everything as

Godly, God-sent, God-motivated, God-regulated, and for Gods

purpose, that vision will take currency and the mind will become

divinized. This is an outlook he may start developing initially in

an imitational manner. Later on it becomes true of him. Swamiji

vicharsetu jan 13b

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