ACROPOLIS

QUArTERLY

VOL 1: JANUARY MARCH 2013 www.acropolis.org.in Schedule of Public Events Inside

message from Director

Dear Reader, It gives me great pleasure to write to you on these pages, marking the new version of our quarterly program of activities. In this edition, we have included content, beyond the program itself, to enrich your reading with some philosophical input and offer you a glance of life at New Acropolis. We value your opinion very much and your feedback can help us improve this publication. We take a first step together, into the creation of a future Acropolis Magazine; with your support it may happen sooner than later, establishing an important tool that can serve for the benefit of many others. I take the opportunity here to thank all the Acropolitan Volunteers who helped to make this small dream into a reality. Finally, I wish you a very Happy New Year 2013! May it be for you, not only a New Year, but also a better one. Sincerely, Yaron Barzilay. National Director, New Acropolis India (North).

Table of Content
4 article: Philosophy of Yoga Guner Orc 9 food for thought public events 11 Jan 12: Philosophy Cafe: Legacy of Atlantis 12 Jan 19: Film Screening: Koi Sunta Hai (Someone is Listening) 13 Feb 2: Lecture: Alchemy The Art of Transformation 14 Feb 12: Open House: Introductory Lecture 15 Feb 19: New Course: World of Wisdom 16 Mar 2 & 3: Seminar: Introduction to Tai Chi 17 Mar 9: Lecture: Egyptian Tarot 18 Mar 30: Lecture: Symbolism of the Mandala 19 testimonials 21 book review
Publisher : New Acropolis Cultural Organization National Director: Yaron Barzilay Public Relations Manager: Harianto H Mehta Design: Neha Mehta, mCube Printed By: Zenith Printers For Advertising Opportunity Contact +91 22 3192 0515 New Acropolis Cultural Organization is an Indian Non-Profit Sec. 25 Company (Registration No: U92412MH2010NPL200490) filed with the Registrar of Companies. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form without the explicit prior permission of the publishers in writing. For feedback and suggestions, please write to us at info@acropolis.org.in

ARTICLE

Philosophy of Yoga Guner Orc,

The word Yoga has become a part of our lives since the second half of XX. century. Its been moved to west from east but mostly without its spirit. Many academies of Yoga, instructors, masters of yoga and gurus appeared in the western world increasingly. Unfortunately most of instructors were not qualified, pseudo-mystics, still based on their egoism. Yoga has become sale as everything has. It became a part of market. They sell yoga pads, yoga cushions, yoga incenses, yoga CDs etc. it became a trend, fashion among the people. What are you doing nowadays? Yoga, it helps me to relax, to feel better; then is yoga an instrument to get relax and feel better? It
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may be but its more than that. It has become an amalgamation of oriental things with aerobics or stretching. It became just another kind of sport. All of us are little bit egoist so wanted to capture that opportunity in the announcements of the books, newspapers or TVs such as yoga in 15 days, know the secrets of Yoga through a course. We look for a wand to change our lives easily and quickly but this is against the laws of nature, against the nature of yoga, against the law of Karma that is the relation between action and reaction. Its much more talked in the western world and generally about the physical part of Yoga. The known form of Yoga in oc-

cidental world is Hatha Kriya Yoga or simply Hatha Yoga. This is the yoga of preparation, the yoga of introduction. It deals with the positions of body and the forms of breathing. Kriya means, fight, war. Interior war is a very important concept of Yoga. Without understanding this, its vain to practice yoga. And this concept is taught to us in the great treatise of eastern sacred book such as Bhagavat Gita. You can see Yoga in Egypt, in Mayas, in Aztecs, in all religions under different forms. The way of practices may be different but they have the same goal: the evolution of man spiritually. Like the ancient Masters say; Lets talk less and lets talk that in low voice for that reason not all of us hear what they said. It is important to understand yoga philosophically, metaphysically and psychologically. I cannot claim that youll learn everything about yoga or the secrets of yoga in a single article. If someone doesnt know philosophy of yoga, the basic

aim at bottom; many terrible problems and dangers wait for him. He can lose the balance of his physical body or psyche. He can come closer to Rajas (excessiveness) more than he was or to Tamas (deficiency) more than he was on some points. The word Yoga literally signifies UNION, to join. It means union but union with what? Union with yourself and Nature. Union with yourself requires knowing yourself, contacting with your inner Being. This reminds us the old but still guiding saying of Socrates: Know yourself.

Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AYogahands.jpg

The ancient masters say that there is three stages or previous elements in Hatha Yoga: Tapas (submission of body), Svadhyaya (study) and Pratyahara (devotion or submission of soul). If you see Yoga as doing gymnastics, you do not do yoga but just an oriental gymnastics. To be able to do real yoga, firstly we need to make our body submit to our will. The exercises to have our body submitted to our will are many and more complex in East. This is the first stage. The second stage is the study. We have to take care of our mind like a plant of rose. We have to know how to maintain it, feed it. If physical body is fed by physical material, the mind is fed by mental material. When our physical body eats garbage and gets sick, likewise when our mind is fed by the weak and volatile ideas, it languishes and sleeps. We have to give it strong food, superior food that means good books, good talks and good imaginations. This provides us a strong mind and lets us study. Study to know and to own. Third stage is Pratyahara that is the submission of
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soul. Soul must have devotion, vision of Path and teleology. The soul that doesnt feel, doesnt vibrate, doesnt sense the spark of something superior behind everything, incompetent of seeing the one beyond of the walls of flesh or stone, this means that this soul is sleeping. We have to wake up the soul to Unity, Beauty, and Goodness.

to will. Every action produces some reactions. Inaction doesnt exist says Bhagavat Gita then were not free from responsibility of our actions, free from the reactions of our actions. We have to find the right action that produces harmony and doesnt violate the balance of Nature. What is right action? That is the action that suits Dharma, the laws of Nature. Right action doesnt expect rewards or is not applied with the fear of punishment.

change, fear of death etc. Anger is a destroying emotion of man, it destroys himself, destroys nature. When we are angry, we do some actions that we generally regret later on. Anger clouds mind and makes man behave like an animal. It forces man to use violence.

There are four basic yoga that are related with the four bodies of human being; Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Gnani Yoga and Raja Yoga. Karma Yoga This is yoga of right action. This yoga works on physical body. It tries to submit physical body

Gnani Yoga This is yoga of right knowledge, yoga of discernment. This yoga works on the body of mind. In the ancient world, it wasnt Bhakti Yoga enough to know, to define but to This is yoga of devotion, of relidiscern, separate and select. Its gious, piousness. Its not related Viveka in East that is symbolised with any religion. This yoga by a black swan that separates works on our emotional body. milk from water when they are Its to purify our sentiments. mixed. Milk symbolises the right The profound sentiments that knowledge and the water is temunderlie in the inner man that porary knowledge that doesnt shows us immortal soul. This is help us on the path of life. If cleaning of emotions. It comes we dont develop our ability of from heart. It aims to get rid of discernment that is the ability to fear and anger which are two big separate right knowledge from enemies of human being. Fear the wrong one then we can fill paralyses man so we can not our minds with a lot of useless take a step to any direction. It and caotic information, imagiproduces inertia. There are difnations and thoughts. Such a ferent type of fears; fear of being mind in confusion and having alone, fear of being in short of many doubts is a real trouble for money, fear of losing job, fear of a man.
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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ABhyragai_-_Vairagya_-..jpg

Raja Yoga This is king yoga, yoga of all bodies human being has. A yogi in this level is further of humanity in evolution. That yogi stands on the point where humanity will come after a long time. Yoga requires continuity, effort, study, hard working and discipline. Its not an easy and short way. With company of philosophy, we can keep ourselves on the path of yoga without distracting by the attractions and perils of path. We can keep walking, keep learning and keep changing. Yoga is equilibrium, says Bhagavat Gita. Lets learn how to read the signs that masters of philosophy left for us. Lets work to contact with our inner being. Lets try to learn the laws of nature that also govern us. Lets try to know ourselves then well catch the equilibrium in our lives that is the harmony with nature.

Bibliography Que es Yoga? Que es un Yogi? Lecture given in New Acropolis, Jorge Angel Livraga, Buenos Aires, 1966 La Practica del Yoga, Lecture, Delia Steinberg Guzman, Spain The Bhagavat Gita, The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, 1904 An Introduction to Yoga, Annie Besant, The Theosophical Publishing House, Adyar, 2002 Guner Orc is the National Director of New Acropolis Australia

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.
Image courtesy: Sid Khanna

Schedule of Public Events Jan Mar 2013

JAN 12: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Philosophy Cafe, Informal Discussion New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Legacy of Atlantis

Talk on Dance & Design

First Aid Workshop

Mythologies from various eras, the world over, speak of an ancient humanity, ingenious in skill, learned in the sciences, and fostering a deep connection with the invisible and mysterious side of Life. While the antiquity of this prosperous humanity does not fit in to modern-day scientific thought, the ancient world has left behind a plethora of clues that suggest a profoundly mystical connection between Mankind and Nature, one that emanates from a unique sensitivity of the Human Being towards his environment. Join us to visit this lost civilization, swallowed by the ocean, and drowned under the legend and theory of modern-day science.
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Ecology Workshop

Image courtesy: http://whoyoucallingaskeptic.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/atlantis-map-2.jpg

JAN 19: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Film Screening (96 MINS) New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

FEB 2: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Koi Sunta Hai (Someone is Listening)

Alchemy - the Art of Transformation

Interweaving the folk music traditions of the mystic poet Kabir with the life and music of the late classical singer Kumar Gandharva, Shabnam Virmani searches for that elusive sound, that jhini si awaaz that Kabir urges us to hear. Where does it resonate, that subtle sound? Journeying between folk and classical, oral and written, rural and urban expressions of this 15th century mystic poet of North India, the film finds moments of both continuity and rupture between these disparate worlds. This presentation continues the exploration of Kabirs work, that began with the 3rd November 2012 screening of Had-Anhad.
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The word Alchemy is bound to stir up a fantasy of the Middle Ages, with old men in some forgotten attic, laboring over bubbling flasks filled with some unknown fluids, in front of an oven, trying to turn molten lead into gold. But what if Alchemy was not, what at first appears, such a foolish waste of time? Consider instead, a science of the soul, the journey of a human being through self-transformation; from a lead-like state of materialism, to a gold-like state of heightened consciousness. Re-discover Alchemy at this fascinating presentation.

Image courtesy: Movie title frame

Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Raimundus_Lullus_alchemic_page.jpg

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FEB 12 : Tuesday 7:30pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Open House New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

FEB 19: Tuesday 7:30pm [2 hrs], FEES APPLY New Course, Rs. 4,500 New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Open House Introductory Lecture

world of wisdom 1st Lecture of new course

Be happier! Live a more meaningful life! Live up to your true potential, and make a real difference in the world around you! At New Acropolis we foster an active and practical approach to Living Philosophy with an acute awareness of the World around us. This Open House gives you the opportunity to learn about the introductory course (beginning 19 Feb 2013, Every Tuesday, 15 Sessions) World of Wisdom where you will learn what it takes to become a true philosopher through a comparative study of the Teachings of the Great Masters of the past. World of Wisdom Course Outline, Introduction.

This introductory course establishes the basic foundation of every aspiring Philosopher. The curriculum comprises of traditional knowledge, presented as a comparative study of Classical Philosophies, and helps each student to develop a sensitive ability to recognize and internalize the fundamental Laws that govern Nature, and Humanity. The course material serves as a basic introduction to ancient cultures and investigates the origins of humanity a time when the Invisible Consciousness was respected, drawing a sense of wonder and esoteric mysticism. New Acropolis strives to preserve this universal heritage, by offering it as an integral part of its scholastic development. Course Duration - 15 Sessions. Every Tuesday, 7:30pm - 9:30pm, beginning 19/2/13. Prior Registration Required.
Image courtesy: New Acropolis India North

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Image courtesy: New Acropolis India North

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MAR 2nd & 3rd: Saturday & Sunday 4pm [3 hrs each day], FEES APPLY 2Day Seminar, Rs. 2,800 New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

MAR 9: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Introduction to Tai Chi

Egyptian Tarot

Tai Chi is an internal martial art and health exercise based on the ancient Chinese Tao Philosophy. While maintaining overall fitness and mental calm, it is also a unique system of self-defence. Multi-medals winner, Sensei Sandeep Desai, is the first Indian to be officially authorized by Master Zhu Tian Cai to teach traditional Chen Style Tai Chi. At this seminar, he will share with students Joint Loosening Movements, Spinal Stretches, Positive and Negative Circles, and the Tai Chi form Yulu. Students will have the opportunity to learn and practice this unique art form, under guidance and supervision. Limited Seats. Register at +919833033239 or www.acropolis.org.in.
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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tai_Chi_Chuan.jpg

It has been suggested that the system of Egyptian Tarot was meant to be a guide to the inner workings of the soul, the mysteries that live within the Human Being of Inner Egypt. Inner Egypt refers to a state of mind, a mythical place of mystery, roots, ancestral wisdom, and home to the archetypical deities of the Egyptian Pantheon who guide Mankind to the difficult answers of Existence and Purpose of Life. The Tarot enabled the Inner Shaman, the soul, a medium of expression, and life was lived in alignment to these divine directions. Join us on our journey through this mystical practice of Ancient Egypt.
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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:All_Gizah_Pyramids-2.jpg

MAR 30: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

TESTIMONIALS

The symbolism of the Mandala

New Acropolis gave meaning to everything I do, helped me understand my purpose here as a human being. Its been a year and a half since I joined New Acropolis and with every passing class it keeps getting better, and today I cannot imagine my life without New Acropolis. Thank you. Krutika Vikamsey

Mandala in Sanskrit means circle. Although Mandalas often consist of squares and triangles, its foundation lies in an inherent concentric structure. Mandalas offer balancing visual elements, symbolizing unity, harmony, a divine order. There exists a vast variety of Mandalas used in diverse cultures throughout the world, suggesting its universal use as a tool for a disciples spiritual journey. How exactly do these symbols, designed through deliberate choices of color and shape, help the Disciples or the Philosophers investigation of the Truth, the Divine?

I can divide my life so far in two parts before I joined New Acropolis and after I joined New Acropolis. New Acropolis held my hand and started me on my lifelong journey of how to be the best I can be. My teachers have taught me not just with words but by being the examples, which has made all the difference. I will forever be indebted. Janki Shah

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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vajravarahi_Mandala.jpg

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BOOK REVIEW

Title: Concentration & Inner Awakening, according to Tibetan Buddhism Author: Fernand Schwarz Publisher: New Acropolis India (North) Available at New Acropolis Art Store, Rs 250/-

Plagued by a perpetual state of confusion caused by the unending triggers of the material realm, the human psyche is unable to filter through the distractions, in order to focus on identifying the eternal truth of the Self. As a result, rarely is a human being able to truly sense his sva-dharma, and tread The Path through life, towards achieving a personal destiny. This inescapable duty and responsibility, however, can only be accomplished by the elimination of constant mental confusion, and the development of self-control by way of fine-tuning the delicate Art of Concentration.
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In his book, Fernand Schwarz, explores the practice of concentration through an in-depth analysis of Lama Blo-bzang Don-yods illustrations. Through Buddhist Symbolism, this work presents the journey towards an enlightened consciousness, delineating the hurdles that need to be overcome with the help of simple physical and mental exercises. Schwarz says, Deep concentration opens access to wisdom, frees up our energy and allows us to get the clarity that is essential to enable us to achieve our true destiny, and offers several techniques by which to improve Concentration.
Book Launch of Concentration & Inner Awakening, by Yaron Barzilay at Kitabkhana (Mumbai)

The Spirit of Volunteering at New Acropolis

New Acropolitans regard humanity not as the owners or custodians of Nature, but as an integral part of Nature itself. Together with the privileges we enjoy , we also strive to develop a deep sense of responsibility, to give back to the world around us. Countless communities have benefited from the solidarity activities of members at New Acropolis worldwide. The primary beneficiaries of these efforts, however, are the very volunteers who give of themselves in service to Humanity, and to Nature. Globally New Acropolis is involved with activities related to Ecology, Disaster Relief, Child Welfare, Art, and all sorts of community service. In addition, we offer inspirational corporate seminars on Leadership, Teamwork, and Corporate Social Responsibility with a deliberate attention given to Philosophy, a love of wisdom and truth. To partake of these initiatives, please contact the New Acropolis Centre in Mumbai at info@acropolis.org.in For press coverage of these initiatives, please contact New Acropolis Public Relations at events@acropolis.org.in
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New Acropolis Centre, A-O Ground Floor, Connaught Mansions, Opp. Colaba Post Office, Mumbai +91.22.3192.0515 | info@acropolis.org.in | www.acropolis.org.in

New Acropolis Centre, A-O Ground Floor, Connaught Mansions, Opp. Colaba Post Office, Mumbai +91.22.3192.0515 | info@acropolis.org.in | www.acropolis.org.in