Vicharsetu Jan 13b

Vicharasethu - January - 2013
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N a r a y a n a s h r a m a Ta p o v a n a m
Venginissery, Paralam, P.O. Ammadam, Thrissur.
Kerala 680 563, India. Tel. (0487) 2277963/2278302/2278363
email: ashram1@gmail.com
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 Lord
Excerpts 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
-- - |+--: +
- +-|- ----- --+-- ++
Yoga-vsiha
Nirva Prakaraam, Prvrdham 39.56
Equanimity or equal vision is sweet and tasteful; its essence has
the 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, the
question 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 you
pursue your saadhana
with greater
intensity, and how to
make the practice
endearing and easy.
4
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 to
do? 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 two
outcomes 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 is
made. 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 of
happiness or the
content of
unhappiness is no
other than the mind.
Be anchored in the
content or
substance of both
happiness or
unhappiness.
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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 produce
happiness 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 walking
stick. 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 repeatedly
contemplating on
these lines, you
will be able to rise
above dualities.
8
The fleeting nature of happiness & misery
Now, I would like you to look at the whole thing from another point. Sri
Krishna tells Arjuna:
--- +-- -+++
--|-.|----|- --++
(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:
s -|-- - - --+
|-+ | - < --+<| - -++ (5.19)
Whose mind is established in equalness, by them the entire
worldliness stands conquered. By their attainment, they are equally
resting, established in Brahman, for Brahman is taintless and
equal.
Krishna wants every one to understand without any ambiguity that
the sole effort of human life must be to make the mind rest
unshakably in smya. Do not think that samatva of the mind is
just a routine discipline or practice; it is as well the fruition and
fulfillment of the whole wisdom pursuit.
When the mind is established in smya, it becomes stable, poised
and unassailable. All agitations and torments, together with their
causes, stand extinct when the mind is enriched and sublimated
by evenness.
Swamiji
* * *
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Verses for Introspection 26
How to remove Sorrow and Delusion
M Gurupriy
z+--- -----
--- - | --+
t| |-- |--
--.+.|-|--++
sakrtyamno bhagavn-ananta:
rutnubhvo vyasana hi pusm ,
praviya citta vidhunoty-aea
yath 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 the
clouds.
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, ones
mind 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 mind
focuses exclusively
on God, the mind
forgets 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
R Ei x: (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 who
hear about Him; x (vyasana) = sorrow, distress; (hi) = indeed;
{ (pus) = of human beings; | (praviya) = having entered;
Sk (citta) = mind; v x i (vidhunoti) = shakes off/dispels completely;
+ (aea) = entirely, completely; l (yath) = just as; i:
(tama:) = darkness; +E : (arka:) = the Sun; + (abhram) = clouds; <
(iva) = like ; +ii: (ativta:) = strong wind, storm.
-
R Ei x: +xxi: ix : Mx { Sk | x + v x i; l
+E : i: < (v x i), +ii: + (< v x i)*
sakrtyamna: ananta: rutnubhva: bhagavn pus citta praviya
vyasana aea hi vidhunoti; yath arka: tama: iva (vidhunoti), ativta:
abhra (iva vidhunoti).

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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 the
details 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 I
would 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 lot
of walking is involved!
15
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, The
Patowmack 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
17
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. How
at 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 with
your 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 book
In 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
Lord is 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 sole
reliance 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 as the 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
20
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 was
nothing 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
21
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, solemn
and 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 of
time, 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 happy
always, 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 young
age, 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 his
philosophical 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 was
very 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 also
happens. 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 wrote
to 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 eternal
values 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 Bhgavatam
series, 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 conducted
on 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. New
phone 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/Time
Feb 14
6.40-8.15pm
Feb 15 & 16
9.15-10.30am;
10.45-11.45am
Feb 15-17
7.15-8.45pm
Feb 17
(Sunday)
9.30-11.30am
Feb 18-19
7.15-8.45pm
Programme
Guru-archan
followed by Poojya
Swamijis
Message
Class by M
Gurupriyji &
Satsang with
Poojya Swamiji
Poojya Swamijis
Discourse Series
(English)
Satsang with
Poojya Swamiji
followed by
Q & A session
Poojya Swamijis
Discourse
(Malayalam)
Venue
Maharashtra Seva
Sangh, Mulund
Maharashtra Seva
Sangh, Mulund
Dr. M.S.
Subhalakshmi
Auditorium & Essar
Hall, Sion West
Maharashtra Seva
Sangh, Mulund
Sree Ayyappa Vishnu
Temple 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 was
performed 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
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

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