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Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna Janmashtami

 

 


Bhagawan says that one among the three beliefs that Bharathiyaas hold fast is the concept of Avatars. The other two being the law of Karma and the doctrine of rebirth. Humanity recognises only the momentary results of the advent of Avatar but as Bhagawan says, the only and very purpose of Avatar is to teach mankind the truth about Love. One such Avatar who displayed the principle of Love in every act of His is Lord Krishna.


Fortunate are we to be the contemporaries of the Poorna Avatar Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. We are blessed to listen about other Avatars directly from Bhagawan Baba, which is like an auto-biography. In this posting, Bhagawan speaks about the birth of Krishna and the message of Krishna Avatar.


This posting is a collection of excerpts from the Divine Discourses of Bhagawan in the years 1989, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003.


In the 1st audio clip, Bhagawan explains the reason and the essential factors why God incarnates. He goes on to explain in clip 1B, the beauty of Krishna Thatwa/Krishna principle. He then goes on to explain in clip 2A, the master plan of the Lord regarding taking up an Avatar as Krishna. In clip 2B, Bhagawan reveals the birthday of Krishna according to the English calendar. In clip 2C, He talks of the misunderstanding that prevails among people about timing of Krishna’s birth. He then goes on to explain in clip 2D, the true birthplace and the true birthday of Krishna. Bhagawan elaborates in clip 3A, the events immediately after Krishna’s birth. In clip 3B, Bhagawan talks about the naming ceremony of little Krishna. He explains in clip 4, different meanings and inner significance of the name ‘Krishna’. He talks of the supreme message of Krishna’s life in clip 5. In clips 6A, 6B, and 6C Bhagawan explains the three vows that Krishna took. Finally, in the 7th clip, Bhagawan explains the purpose of Avatars, and lessons that devotees must take home.


1A. Why Avatars Come-1995 May 21


Whenever cruelty, falsehood and unrighteousness reach intolerable proportions, God incarnates on Earth to destroy the wrongdoers. God Himself steps into the world. Why should God Himself come down? Could He not send His powers or deputies to complete this task? If there is a small case (disturbance), a police constable will come to the scene first. If it intensifies further it will be handled by a S.P (Superintendent of Police). If the case is even more demanding, the D.I.G (Deputy Inspector General of Police) will take it up. Beyond a limit, the I.G.P (Inspector General of Police) himself will look into the case. Therefore, based on the duties and task at hand, a suitable action needs to be undertaken. Today’s world is boiling with lots of agitation. Similarly, Kamsa’s reign was full of agitation. There was a sense of insecurity among all the citizens of the kingdom. They weren’t sure which Yadava would be ordered to be executed and beheaded. Nobody’s life was secure. They lived a life filled with fear and anxiety.


Under those circumstances, God decided to incarnate and destroy such wicked people. The advent of every Avatar has two reasons: one, the prayers of the devotees; and two, the atrocities of the wicked people. The unity of these two factors too is very essential.



1B. Krishna Thatwa-1996 Sept 4

The Krishna Avatar was intended to teach a perennial message to the world. He sought nothing for Himself. He kept nothing for Himself. He gave away everything to the people. He slayed His maternal uncle Kamsa and installed Ugrasena, Kamsa’s father, on the throne. He did not covet the Kingdom. He befriended the Pandavas, defeated the Kauravas and crowned Dharmaja as the emperor. He did not make Himself the king. He was a king without a crown. He was the king of kings. He had no kingdom of His own. Infact, every human heart is His kingdom. This is the profound truth proclaimed by the Krishna Thatwa (Krishna principle).

2A. Lord’s Master Plan-1995 May 21


Divinity summoned Maya Shakthi. Devaki Devi had conceived her seventh child. All the events were unfolding as per His master plan. Vasudeva had two wives. They were housed at Nanda’s place to be guarded against the atrocities of Kamsa. The Lord summoned Yoga Maya Shakti and instructed, “Devaki Devi had conceived her seventh child. Don’t keep this child in her womb any further. This child is an incarnation of Adishesha Himself. Now, transfer this child to the womb of Rohini”. Hence, Balarama (the child born to Rohini) is also called by the name Sankarshanudu. Sankarshana means “transferring from one place to another”. Thus, Maya Shakti transferred the seventh child from Devaki Devi’s womb to Rohini’s womb and assisted in the Divine master plan to annihilate the demons. The Lord further instructed Maya Shakti to enter into the womb of Yashoda (wife of Nanda). “I will Myself enter Devaki Devi’s womb as her eighth child.”


2B. Krishna’s Birthday as per English Calender-2001 Aug 11

When was Krishna actually born? He was born 3228 years before Christ era in the month of Suguna on the 20th of July at 3 a.m. This is 2001 A.D. Before Christ it was 3228 years ago. As of today, He will be 5229 years old. He was born on the auspicious day of Sravana-Bahula-Ashtami. He was born in the Rohini Nakshatra (star). Since Krishna was born on the Ashtami day in the Rohini star, the world witnessed numerous miraculous events.

2C. Significance of Birth Timing-1990 Aug 14

Krishna was born in the Krishnapaksha. What is Krishnapaksha? Krishnapaksha means darkness (the dark fortnight of the month). At night there will be no moonlight. It is full of darkness. In peacelessness (Ashanti) there is radiance (Prakaanti). In that radiance there is Supreme Light (Paramjyothi). This Supreme Light is verily the Divine (Paramatma). Light has its value in darkness alone, but not in brightness. Similarly, when the entire world was filled with restlessness (Ashanti), which is unrighteous, Krishna took birth as the Embodiment of supreme peace.


He was born on Ashtami day. People associate Ashtami with troubles and losses. But when do troubles and losses arise in the world? Only when Righteousness (Dharma) is forgotten. Thus, to remove the troubles and losses of mankind; to dispel the darkness; to drive away ignorance; and to teach mankind Divine knowledge, Lord Krishna incarnated through Sravanam.


(Note – Lord Krishna was born in the month of Sravana. Bhagawan also brings out the significance of the word Sravanam (devout listening). In the discourse, Bhagawan goes on to talk about teaching the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna through the path of Sravanam.)


2D. True Birthday and Birthplace of Krishna-2003 Aug 19

Only when every man’s heart becomes cool, pure, peaceful, that is the true birthday of Krishna. There is no need to worry about the Thithis of Ashtami or Navami. Every man’s Hridaya (heart) is the birthplace of Krishna. The Hridaya must be peaceful, pure like the Himachala (the Himalayan mountains). It must be pure and cool. God manifests and installs Himself only in those hearts.


3A. Birth Story of Krishna-1995 May 21


God Himself incarnated as the child. The Divine effulgence of the child illuminated the surroundings. Devaki and Vasudeva bowed to the child. What is the reason? They were aware that God would be born as their child. The Lord had appeared to them in a dream the previous night and, “I will take birth from your womb at dawn”. Indeed the Divine child incarnated. “But, what is the use ? How do we protect this child?”, thought the parents. They were worried about His safety. This was the impact of Maya, delusion! They knew He was Divine. How can they protect the Divine?


The Lord had already instructed Vasudeva to take the Divine child out soon after birth. Vasudeva placed the baby in a small basket and was wondering how he would go out. In a trice, the chains that tied his hands came loose. The doors flung open. It was three o’clock in the thick of the night. The gatekeepers were fast asleep. No one else was around. Vasudeva quietly walked out of the dungeon. As he proceeded, there was a tremendous downpour of rain. This was a sign of the intense joy; and purity of the occasion. Even the clouds were ecstatic at the Divine Advent. Placing the basket on his head, Vasudeva walked towards Gokulam. But, river Yamuna flowed across his path. When God Himself was going, who could obstruct Him? Adisesha covered the basket carrying the Divine child. The river parted and made way as they proceeded. At that very moment, Yashoda gave birth to Maya Shakti. Everyone was fast asleep at Gokulam also. Vasudeva switched the babies and returned. It was all done according to the Divine Command. But nobody believes this today. This was a Divine Plan.


In keeping with God’s command, Vasudeva placed the Lord next to Yashoda and returned to Mathura with the girl child. God’s ways are so mysterious! Only after Vasudeva returned and placed the baby girl next to Devaki Devi, did the guards wake up. The prison doors were found open and the guards were gripped with fear. The baby girl cried out loudly.



3B. Garga Names the Baby as Krishna-2001 Aug 11


Sage Garga went to the house of Yashoda and Nanda for the naming ceremony of the babies. He exclaimed, “What I am seeing here today is strange. I have never heard of this in my life!” Incarnations generally occur in three colours of Shukla (white), Aruna (orange) and Pita (yellow). But here was a baby who was black. Hence, Garga considered the name Krishna (black) as most appropriate.


4. Meaning of the Name Krishna-1990 Aug 14


4A. Krishyathi Iti Krishnah

We must understand properly the meaning of the term Krishna. The word has three meanings.

 

One is “Krishyathi iti Krishnah” (The one who cultivates is Krishna). What is it that has to be cultivated? The Hridayakshetra (field of the heart). Krishna cultivates the field of our hearts. He removes the weeds of bad thoughts, softens the heart by watering it with love, ploughs it through sadhana, and sows the seeds of Lord’s name. Thus, Krishna is one who cultivates our hearts.



4B. Karshathi Iti Krishnah

The second meaning of the word is: “Karshathi iti Krishnah.” (The one who attracts is Krishna). Karsha refers to attraction. Krishna attracts you by His eyes, His speech, His sports, His flute. Everything related to Krishna is attractive. By His words, He softens and calms the hearts of even those filled with anger and makes them rejoice.

 

Krishna displayed these qualities even as a small child. Once He had entered the house of a gopika at night, climbed a pillar to get to the curds that were kept in a pot suspended from the ceiling. The gopika came with a lot of anger, caught Him in the act and held and blocked the pillar, saying that she would now expose Him before His mother Yashoda. She asked Him what He was doing at the top of the pillar. Krishna, in the most innocent manner, answered that He was searching for the calf that was missing from His house. The gopika could not contain her laughter at the answer. She laughed loudly and let go of the pillar to cover her mouth. This gave Him the chance to slide down the pillar and make a good escape. This way, every aspect of Krishna is full of attraction. He is attraction itself.


4C. Kushyathi Iti Krishnah

A third meaning of the word Krishna is “Kushyathi iti Krishnah” (one who is always joyful). Kush means joy. Krishna was always in a state of joy.


5. Prema Thatwa – Message of Life of Krishna-1989 Aug 24


The supreme message of the life of Krishna is Prema Thatwa (Love Principle) alone. Devoid of love, one cannot understand Krishna Thatwa. This Prema Thatwa will confer everything to the world. Krishna is the embodiment of Love. This love can be understood only through love. Divine love is strong, precious, splendorous and unbreakable like a diamond. If you want to secure such Divine love, your love (for God) must be equally strong. You can cut a diamond only with another diamond. If there is any defect in your love, it should be removed only through love. Love begets love. It is impossible to attain love through hatred. Hatred only breeds even more hatred. Jealousy begets jealousy. Anger breeds further anger. Through love alone can love be developed. Therefore, if you want to foster love, you have to get rid of hatred, jealousy and anger. Is there a need to use a torchlight, or a lantern, or a petromax light to see the naturally illuminating moon? No. There is no need for any of these accessories. The Moon can be seen by its own light. Similarly, to attain Krishna, the very embodiment of love, love is the only way.


6. The Three Vows that Krishna Took


6A. Paritranaya Sadhunam-28 April 1999
Paritranaaya Sadhunaam
Vinaashaayacha Dushkrutaam
Dharma-Samsthaapanaarthaaya
Sambhavaami Yuge Yuge

What is the meaning of Sambhavam? One who expresses and manifests Himself according to His Will, unrestricted by rules, wherever and whenever necessary, is called as Sambhavaha

 

The Bhagavad Gita says – Whenever righteousness declines, O Arjuna, and unrighteousness rises, I incarnate. To protect the pious and destroy the wicked, to establish dharma, I incarnate in every age.

 

The word Sambhavaami means: He incarnates whenever necessary, wherever necessary, not bound by any rules. Thus, man recognised the various qualities of God and attributed names describing each aspect.


6B. Yogakshemam Vahaamyham-1998 April 19

Ananyaschinthayantho Maam
Ye Janah Paryupaasathe
Theshaam Nithyaabhiyukthaanaam
Yogakshemam Vahaamyaham


Whoever it may be (Ye Janaah Pari Upaasate), if he thinks of Me (worships Me) all the time (Ananyaas Chintayanto Maam), I will take care of his/her day to day welfare (Teshaam Nityaabhi Yuktaanaam, Yogakshemam Vahaamyaham).


It must be Ananya Bhakti. If the devotion is limited to just oneself and one’s family, it becomes ordinary devotion. If one prays with the feeling that one should be fine and the society should also be fine, then it is somewhat better – medium level.

 

The one who understands the principle that all are one, all beings are one, he is the one with true infinite devotion (Ananya Bhakti). Ananya Bhakti does not mean Sarvada Sarvakaaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam – that is praying to the Lord non-stop all the time. Ananya means not perceiving any differences; it means considering and seeing everybody as one. There is Divinity in everyone, everybody is essentially Divine.


6C. Sarva Dharmaan Parithyajya-1991 July 26

Sarva Dharmaan Parityajya
Maam Ekam Saranam Vraja
Aham Tvaam Sarva-Paapebhyo
Mokshayishyaami Maa Shucha


In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna called upon Arjuna to renounce all Dharmas and seek refuge in Him alone – “Sarva Dharmaan Parityajya Maam Ekam Saranam Vraja.” What is meant by Dharma? In the present context, Dharma refers to the specific quality of each object. Heat, for instance, is the Dharma of fire in a burning charcoal. Without heat, it is mere charcoal. Sweetness is the Dharma (natural quality) of sugar. Without sweetness, it ceases to be sugar. It becomes sand. Likewise, there is a Dharma (natural tendency) for man. What is it? Desire for things. It is natural for man to multiply his desires. “Sarva Dharmaan Parithyajya” means giving up all desires. This is also called Vairagya (detachment).

 

Note: Following passage is extracted from a discourse given by Bhagawan on 6-9-1977


“Mokshayishyaami Maa Shucha” (I shall save all those who surrender whole-heartedly to Me, and I shall liberate them from the cycle of birth and death). Thus Krishna assured man that He would save him from penury and grief and from sin and its terrible consequences, provided he adheres to Him and adores Him.


7. Lesson for Devotees-1997 Aug 25

There are many things in this world. There is intelligence and education, but can one become an expert instantly? There is a need for a teacher. Likewise, God descends in human form to guide mankind on the path of God realisation. We need to know this truth. Why do Avatars come? Avatar does not come without a purpose. Avatars come to uplift the creation (Prakriti).

Having been born as a human, man must not forget the importance of human birth. Human birth is rare and it must be utilised for the right purpose. God instructs the right path to redeem human birth. Festivals like Raama Navami and Krishna Janmashtami are designed to remind people about the purpose of human life. Observe how the cows behave. When they notice a green pasture, they hurriedly eat as much as they can. Once they return to their resting place, they leisurely chew the cud and digest it. Similarly, absorb the sacred teachings as much as you can during your stay here. Recollect and ruminate over them when you go back home. You are listening to what is being told here. Do not forget them. Once you return home, ruminate over what has been told here and put it into practice. Practise is important. Mere hearing is not enough. Every human is Divine, whatever is done that is God’s work. Always contemplate on God and sanctify the time



Quiz

1. What are the two essential factors for the incarnation of God?

2. What does Krishna Thatwa (Krishna principle) proclaim?

3. When is Krishna’s birthday as per English calendar and Indian calendar?

4. Generally, people associate Ashtami with troubles and losses. But what is the actual reason given by Bhagawan, for the troubles and losses in life?

5. Krishna was born in the Krishnapaksha, the dark fortnight of the month. In this context, what does Krishna’s advent signify?

6. Which is the true birthplace of Krishna and When does the true birth of Krishna happen?

7. What are the three colours in which the incarnations generally occur? Was Krishna’s colour one among them? What was the colour of Krishna?

8. The name Krishna signifies three different aspects of the Lord. What are they?

9. What is the supreme message of Krishna’s life? What is the only way to attain Krishna?

10. Recollect the three vows that Krishna took.

11. What lessons must devotees take home, regarding the teachings, from the behaviour of cows?
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MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-2

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK-2

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This section of the blog presents a message of Bhagawan Baba every week. Mostly, it is the form of a question that is answered by Bhagawan, giving us the correct understanding and interpretation of a concept or a term or a practice. So watch out every Sunday for a special message from Bhagawan Baba that could serve as your driving force throughout the week. Wish you a happy week!!
The audio clip of the message has a name that adopts the following code: Title relating to the message, Duration of the clip, Year-Month-Date of the Clip. Below the title is the English translation of the message. Below the English translation is the audio player.  
Ganesha Chaturthi Special
09 September 2013
What is the inner significance of Siddhi and Buddhi – the consorts of Vinaayaka?
What is the inner significance of Siddhi and Buddhi – the consorts of Vinaayaka-2.24-1994 September 09


Vinaayaka is the one with the power and capability of supreme intelligence. Humans derive happiness and joy because of the combination of Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi(fulfilment or achievement). Therefore, in the worldly stories (Puranas), Siddhi and Buddhi are referred to as the consorts of Vinaayaka. Since, He is the master (adhipati) of intellect and wisdom, He is referred to as their husband (pati). Thus being the master of Siddhi and Buddhi, Vinaayaka is called the leader or the adhipati of these. Humans derive happiness and bliss because of the combination of Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi (fulfilment or achievement). That is why; happiness and bliss are also referred to as the children of Vinaayaka.  

Such metaphors and analogies give some satisfaction to the people in the worldly and physical sense. (Truly speaking) how can Vinaayaka, who has no desires or any mental feelings, have any wives or children? Pati does not necessarily mean husband; it means adhipati (master). He is called the husband of intellect and wisdom as He is the master of these two.
09 September 1994


What is the inner significance of Siddhi and Buddhi – the consorts of Vinaayaka-2.55-2001 August 22


Vinaayaka is the one with a pure heart. Siddhi (fulfilment or achievement) and Buddhi (intellect) are His two eyes. The two eyes of Siddhiand Buddhi are regarded as His two consorts. Thus Vinaayaka is the Nayakaor the leader of Siddhi and Buddhi. To have Siddhi (fulfilment), one must have Buddhi (intellect). To have Buddhi(intellect), we must develop the feeling of gratitude in us. For the one without any gratitude, the intellect will be destroyed. Once the intellect is destroyed, how can you have any fulfilment or achievement? Sarva Siddhi Sampradaaya Namah – Vinaayaka is the one who bestows on you all the achievements (success). We need to make an effort to recognize this principle of Lord Vinaayaka.

22 August 2001




What is the inner significance of the elephant head of Ganesha?
What is the inner significance of the elephant head of Ganesha-2.43-1994 September 09


Vinaayaka has supreme intelligence. In the morning when I came to the Hostel, Sai Gita (the elephant) came towards Me trumpeting with delight! She does not trumpet at any other car. My car came and behind My car, there were another 80 cars. The moment My car came and she heard the sound of My car, she came trumpeting loudly to the road. See, how clever she is. She has so much wisdom and intelligence. That is why any individual who is very intelligent is generally referred to as the one having the intelligence of an elephant (gaja telivi – elephant intelligence). The elephant has such supreme intelligence. Therefore, the reason behind placing an elephant head for Vighneshwara, is to declare to the people through this symbol, that He is the one of great intelligence. Otherwise, why else would they create Him with human hands and legs and with the head alone as an elephant head? They gave maximum importance to His intelligence (medha shakti – power of intelligence).

Apart from the above, it is necessary that we must first listen to anything that is said. In Vedanta, the three most important aspects are Sravanam (listening), Mananam(contemplating) and Nidhidhyaasanam(assimilating). Only when you hear first and contemplate subsequently, you can put something into practice. Without listening and without contemplating, how can you put anything into practice? Therefore, Sravanam – the ears of the elephant are very large, which means that it hears properly to everything. Whether criticism (dushanam) or praise (bhushanam), it listens to both. But what does it do with praise (bhushanam)? It nicely takes it inside. And what does it do with criticism (dushanam)? It hits it again and again (with its large ears) and throws it out. Thus it accepts good things into it and throws away bad things outside. This is the inner significance of the elephant head.    
09 September 1994


What is the inner significance of the elephant head of Ganesha-2.55-2001 August 22


Vighneshwara is created with the head of an elephant and the vehicle of a mouse to declare to the world the ideal and the truth that Divinity is not limited to the human form only. Divinity exists even in insects and in all beings. The elephant is supremely intelligent. It is full of loyalty. It will never forget its master, even if it loses its life. Without forgetting the master, so long as it is alive, with the principle of Divinity in it, it nurtures a sense of gratitude. The elephant stands for the quality of gratitude. Gratitude is a very sacred quality. Kshama (forbearance) is truth, kshama is dharma, kshama is vedam, kshama is non-violence, kshama is indeed everything. The elephant is the very embodiment of kshama (forbearance). The elephant would be ready to even give up its life, but it will never tolerate any pain to its master.

The elephant shows the ideal path to humanity. In a forest that has no paths or roads, once an elephant walks through, a pathway is automatically created for the people. Therefore, in this forest of life, for the people who cannot see the pathway, the elephant (Ganesha) preaches and shows the path. The one donning the head with such intelligence is Vinaayaka. Therefore Vinaayaka means the one with intelligence, who shows the ideal path to mankind.        
22 August 2001



What is the inner significance of the Mushika (mouse) being the Vaahana (chariot) of Lord Ganesha?

What is the inner significance of the Mushika(mouse) being the Vaahana (chariot) of Lord Ganesha-2.02-1995 August 29


What is this elephant head and a mouse vehicle for Ganesha? The mouse is called a Mushika. The Mushika is a symbol for the night. Night stands for darkness. Therefore, the mouse symbolizes darkness (darkness of ignorance). Since, Ganesha has trampled the darkness beneath Him (kept it under check), He is referred to as the one having a mouse as a vehicle. Vinaayaka is the master who dispels the darkness and bestows light on the world.

Mushika is also a symbol of Vaasanaas(tendencies). The mouse keeps travelling to places based on vaasana (smell). Therefore, Vinaayaka is the one who has total control over desires, tendencies and ignorance.     
The mouse is the chariot of Vinaayaka. What is the meaning of a chariot? Chariot is the one which is below the rider. The one boarded on it is the master. Therefore, Vinaayaka is the master who has control over the tendencies, desires and ignorance.  
29 August 1995


What is the meaning of the title Vinaayaka?
What is the meaning of the title Vinaayaka-1.38-1994 September 09


He is also known as Vinaayaka. Vinato Naayaka Iti Vinaayaka – The one without any master (leader) is Vinaayaka. Vinaayaka has no leader. He is all independent (absolutely free). Everybody (in this world) has some leader (master), everybody has some authority above them, but Vinaayaka has no master. The one with the mind alone has a master. But, where is the (need for a) master for the one without a mind? Thus, Vinaayaka is the principle that transcends the state of amanaska(mindlessness). Without understanding this true principle of Vinaayaka, we merely regard Him as the physical and visible form having the trunk of an elephant, with four hands and with ears like fans. Vinaayaka is the master for the entire world, the universe, and all the beings.  


09 September 1994


What is the meaning of the name Ganaadipati and Ganapati?
What is the meaning of the name Ganaadipati & Ganapati-2.22-1995 August 29


Vedas describe Ganesha as Ganaadipa. Who are these Ganas?

(Gana indicates the republic, the assembly. Alternatively, Gana may also be taken as the attendants or the warriors of Lord Shiva. For further details:
Are these angelic Ganas or demonic Ganas? They refer to the angelic Ganas. Where do these Ganas exist? Are they roaming around in the outer world or are they part of the inner world of the human body? Being the master of all the Ganas (angels), He is called Ganaadipa.
Gana actually means the five senses. The principle of the five Karmendriyaas (instruments of action – conative) and the five Jnaanendriyaas(instruments of perception – cognitive) take the form of the Ganas. The master of all these ten senses is the mind. Mind being the master of the ten senses (Indriyas) is given the tile of Indra. Further, the Buddhi (intellect) is the master of the mind. Therefore, Ganesha is called Gana (senses)-dhi (intellect)-pati (master).   
Next, what is the meaning of the word Ganapati? “Ga”means Buddhi (intellect). “Na” means Vijnaana (wisdom). As He is the master (Pati) of the intellect (Ga) and wisdom (Na), He is called Ganapati. Buddhi (intellect) is the master of the mind. Mind is the master of the senses. And as He is the head of all the Ganas (senses), He is called Ganapati.  

29 August 1995


What is the message that the family of Lord Shiva conveys?
What is the important message that the family of Lord Shiva conveys to us-1993 September 19


This is a family of four members: Iswara, Parvati, Vighneshwara and Subramanyam. They symbolize Paramatma (Divinity), Prakruti (Nature), Buddhi (Intellect) and Siddhi(Fulfillment) respectively. These four stay together in unity. If we enquire about this from a worldly point of view, the chariot of Iswara is the bull and the chariot of Pravati is the lion. The bull and the lion are great enemies. (Swami sings the Telugu song – Tandava Kelisalpene Parameswarudu Sri Sambasivudu…). Lord Shiva has the Ganga on His head and fire (in the form of the third eye) in His face (forehead). Fire and water are opposites. However, they remain there without assuming or manifesting any opposition. Given all this, the family dances the Tandava dance.

Swami continues singing the Telugu song…. Tandava Kelisalpene
The Iswara principle brings about equality (unity) among all the opposites. The head of Vighneswara is an elephant’s head. His mother’s chariot is the lion. The elephant cannot survive if the lion appears even in its dream. Though being opposites, they live so intimately. The chariot of Subramanyam is a peacock. The ornaments of Iswara are serpents. These two are totally against each other. But all of them live together in unity. All this is a symbol to set an ideal to the world. Divinity thus demonstrates an ideal life to the entire world. Vighneswara has a serpent as a waist band. The chariot of Subramanyam is a peacock. Watching a peacock, the serpent just runs away. However such opposite or contradictory relationships experience unity in Iswara’s family. The family of Iswara demonstrates the symbol of unity to the world.     
19 September 1993


09 September to 15 September 2013
Why does Swami often address us as Bangaaroo (Gold)?
Why does Swami often address us as Bangaaroo(Gold)-2.03-2000 July 16
Bangaaroo

I often call you as Bangaaroo, Bangaaroo (gold, gold). What do we mean by Bangaaroo(gold)? You are the one with Hiranyagarbha(golden womb – cosmic principle). Hiranyagarbhaaya Namah (obeisance to the Hiranyagarbha– cosmic principle). Your entire heart is full of the principle of Hiranya (gold). The gold may be converted into any ornament. If not an ornament, it can be at least kept as a coin. Therefore, the one that gets transformed into certain forms is gold, the one without any form is also gold. Thus, with a form you are gold and even in the formless state you are gold.    

Enquire a little into the nature of gold. (For example), if a customer takes a small amount of gold, he is asked to pay Rs.500. However, if some copper is mixed with the gold, the value comes down to Rs.300. Further, if some brass is mixed into it, the price further comes down to Rs.200. What is the reason for the price to come down? Mixing (adulteration) is the cause for the price to come down. Why should you mix this copper and brass with pure gold? Because of mixing with these, the value of gold goes down.
(Similarly) when we are born, we are pure and highly valuable. However, as we grow, the copper of desires get mixed into us. The brass of ego also gets mixed into us. Consequently, our value goes down. What is the reason for our value to go down? The reason is the mixing of valueless materials with that which has high value. Therefore, we should not allow cheap materials (desires and ego) to get into us.           
 16 July 2000



 Teachers Day Special

O5 September 2013
Who is a true teacher (Acharya)?
Who is a true teacher-Acharya-3.29-2001 November 21

The Universal Teacher

The teacher is an Acharya. What is the meaning of an Acharya? Acharya is not merely a teacher. Acharya is the one who practices and then teaches. Therefore, the name Acharya is given because the teacher is supposed to practice and then teach. First follow and then teach the children. Children may have some bad habits. The teachers must first of all control these bad habits themselves and then train the children accordingly. If the teacher himself sits in the college and keeps smoking, the children too would come smoking to the school, the next day. The teacher may shout at the student, “Aye, why are you smoking?” The student would reply, “Sir, you too are smoking”. What reply can the teacher give to this question? No reply. He can only apply, but no reply.
Therefore, if you want to teach the student, then you must not practice this bad habit in front of the student. If you practice any bad thing, the students too will start following you. Whatever you think is good and you want to teach to the students, you must practice first. Do good and teach good. This is the correct way of teaching and the right characteristic of education. With this, the goodness in the students will manifest itself. Such a student will come to the teacher and will confess on his own, “Sir, I have committed so many mistakes unknowingly. I have done this, I have done that….” Saying so, from that day onwards the student will turn into a good person.
I know this very well as I punish the student in many ways. I shout at them, I advise them, I love them, I give them everything; but at times, I am very stern. At such times, the children come on their own to Me and say, “Swami, I have committed a mistake. Please forgive me. I have not been able to follow what You have said. Now I am able to recognize the truth in what You said. Henceforth, I will not commit such mistakes.” Swami melts at this and responds, “Son, be good hereafter. Ensure that you do not change again. Whatever I do is for your own good.” Teachers also should teach their students like this.   
21 November 2001


O2 September to 08 September 2013
What is the real purpose of human birth?
What is the real purpose of human birth-1.12-1999 November 18

Serve the world. We are born in this world for undertaking service and not for wielding authority. What is this authority? We are born mainly to serve others. God made us take birth (in this world) only for the purpose of service. Therefore, understand the truth that we are born for service. Service does mean government service or this or that service (i.e. your jobs). You can do your respective services (jobs). But the real service is service to humanity, service to the world. Help the poor. Serve the sick people. Give strength and empower the weak people. Life is not meant for earning money to fill our stomachs alone. Recognize the truth that there are crores of people out there who also have a stomach that needs to be filled. They go through so many difficulties. We must take the initiative to help and serve such people. Then alone will our lives be truly fulfilled.

18 November 1999


28 August 2013 – Krishnaashtami Special
What is the significance of the Gopikas churning the curd to get butter?
What is the inner significance of the Gopikas churning the curd to get butter-3.25-1994 August 28


Yashoda said, “Krishna, you do not eat what I am offering to you. You go to the houses of the cowherds and collect fistfuls of butter from their pots and eat it. The matter has come to the knowledge of all on the streets. What is this madness? Is there no butter in our house? Why should you not eat when I offer to you? Why does the butter from other houses appear so tasty for you? Because you steal that butter, the whole village is full of noisy complaints. Your full mouth has the smell of butter. The entire village is protesting with so many complaints. You are such a small child. Why are making so much mischief in this Gokulam? You should not do this.”

Krishna replied, “Mother, I am not taking the butter. I am taking away their hearts. The heart is pure. Mother, do you know how their hearts are? Nirgunam (attributeless), Niranjanam (blemishless), Sanaatanam (eternal), Niketanam (ever immersed in oneself), Nitya (permanent), Shuddha (ever pure), Buddha(ever illumined), Mukta (totally free), Niramala (immaculate) Swaroopinam (embodying all these). Such butter (heart) is not available in our home.
You ask me as to why I find the butter of their houses so tasty. In the early hours of the morning, the Gopikas insert the churning rod into the curd inside the pot. They wind the rope around the rod, and as they churn the curd taking the name of Krishna, their bangles (hit against each other and) give the right taalam (music beat) to the chanting of the name of Krishna. The swirling of the rope around the churning rod is like the shruthi (musical note). With this shruthi (musical note) and taala (beat), they churn the curd. After the churning, the one which floats on the top is the butter.
Therefore, mother, the hearts of the Gopikas are like the pots. They immerse the churning rod of the buddhi (intellect) into their heart; tie the rope of love around it; and churn with the chanting of the name of the Lord; The nectar that emerges from their heart is the very essence of all the Vedas and that is the real butter. This butter is the nectar that emerges from the churning of all the shastras(scriptures). Does this happen in our house? Do you chant the name of Krishna? You get the curd churned by somebody else in the morning. The butter of the Gopikas is so very tasty.”
28 August 1994


What is the inner significance of Krishna stealing the Butter?
What is the inner significance of Krishna stealing the Butter-6.00-2002 May 29
Krishna is the stealer of hearts!!

Not all can recognize the reality of Krishna. We think, “Oh! He is the son of Yashoda, who indulges in silly acts like taking butter from one house and dropping it in another’s house.” Why should Krishna indulge in this type of “cheating”? We consider this as “cheating”. No, it is not cheating at all. There is a lot of significance in this. What exactly is butter? When milk (after curdling and transformed into curd) is churned and the essence is extracted from it, it assumes the form of butter. Similarly, to bring forth or manifest God (as unity), who resides in all forms of life (as diversity), such churning has to be carried out. There is Divinity in such unity.


Wherever Krishna went, people thought that He had committed theft. “Theft” is a very bad word (bad accusation). If he were to be a thief, why would he leave traces of butter smeared all over his face? No, no, no. Yashoda herself had this doubt, and asked, “O Krishna! Your entire mouth smells of butter, the whole village is agog, and there are complaints galore. You are so small. Can you be the cause of such trouble? What is this mischief? Is there no butter in our house? Will I not give you if you ask? Why should you take butter going to all their houses?”
Krishna replied, “Mother! It is not that we do not have butter in our house. Butter represents the (spiritual) heart. The butter inside the hearts of those people is very sacred. The butter (hearts) in our home acts as it wishes. The butter outside is very pure and not just that; it has sacred aroma.”
Mother Yashoda pleaded, “Son, please do not go out anywhere. How much ever butter you want, it is available at home and I will give you.”
Krishna replied, “That would not be necessary. I find the butter from all these houses very special!  And I am not stealing. I am taking it away right in their very presence.”
That is why devotees sing “Bada Chitta Chora, Brindaavana Sanchaara”. They call Krishna as Chitta Chora (the thief of hearts). When called so, Krishna used to feel very happy. Actually if you call someone a thief he would get into a fight with you and question you, “What, am I a thief?” But with Krishna it is not like that. He has to be called out loudly, full throated – Bada Chitta Chora, Brindaavana Sanchaara. You are a thief. People sing like this with appropriate beat and feel so happy. When we refer to God as thief, it means He is Chitta Chora (stealer of hearts). He shines forth in the hearts of all. The Chitta or awareness within the heart is symbolic of the butter. Krishna is the one who steals such hearts.
29 May 2002


What is the meaning of the word Krishna?
What is the meaning of the word Krishna-5.09-1990 August 14


We must understand properly the meaning of the term Krishna. The word has three meanings. One is “Krishyathi Iti Krishnah”(The one who cultivates is Krishna). Krishimeans cultivation. What is it that has to be cultivated? Krishna cultivates the Hridayakshetra (field of the heart). He removes the unwanted weeds of bad qualities, waters it with the water of love and softens it, ploughs it with the use of sadhanaand sows the seeds of devotion to God. This is how Krishna cultivates the field of our hearts. This is “Krishyathi Iti Krishnah”.

The second meaning of the word is “Karshathi Iti Krishnah” (The one who attracts is Krishna). Karshameans the one who attracts. Krishna attracts you with His eyes, His speech, His actions and His flute. He attracts you with every aspect of His. By His (soothing) words, He cools down the hearts filled with anger and makes them cheerful. Once when Krishna was a small child, He went to the house of a Gopika, climbed up a pillar and took the curd that was kept in a pot suspended from the ceiling. The Gopika approached him with all anger. She caught hold of the pillar and said, “Let me see how you will get down now. I will take you to your mother Yashoda right now. She always claims that her son never commits any mistakes. Now I will expose you to her red handed”.
Looking at the Gopika coming with all anger, mother Yashoda (went with her and) questioned Krishna, “Krishna, what are you doing?” Krishna replied (most innocently), “The calf in our house is missing. I was seeing whether it has come here by any chance. The Gopika could not contain her laughter at this answer. Can a calf ever be found in a pot tied within a basket? Thinking so, she laughed loudly and covered her face with her hands. The moment she let go, Krishna jumped down and ran away. Thus in every act of His, there is attraction – “Karshathi Iti Krishnah”.
A third meaning of the word Krishna is “Kushyathi Iti Krishnah” (one who is always blissful). Kush means happiness, the one who is always blissful and joyful. Krishna is always in a state of overwhelming bliss. It was because He embodied the principle with these sacred qualities, that sage Garga named Him Krishna. The ordinary meaning of the word Krishna is “one who is dark”. We generally think only of this meaning and forget the deeper and inner meanings of the Lord’s name. The funny part was that He preached the Truth to the world, manifested and declared the eternal reality, but yet with humour in life; He gave joy to the people all around.    
14 August 1990


26 August to 01 September 2013
What is Samskrithi–Refinement-Transformation?
What is Samskrithi –Refinement-Transformation-4.16-1990 May 20

Samskrithi is the culturing process


Samskrithi means the one that is refined or transformed. The word samskrithi, originates from the root samskritham. It refers to the process of refinement of every object that is in its natural form, before it is made fit for human use. A small example; we eat rice every day. But consider how many transformations are undergone by paddy before it reaches this state and becomes fit for consumption. Threshing the paddy grains from the sheaves, winnowing and separating grains from chaff, pounding or milling to remove the husk from the grain, cleaning the rice by removing extraneous matter like small stones and weed seeds, etc., soaking the raw rice in water, and finally cooking over fire to get cooked rice that we can eat. Such samskrithi (refinement) makes it possible for us to consume the rice. Samskaaram(transformation) also enhances the value of things. For instance, the value of paddy is, say, one hundred rupees per bag. But, when it is dehusked and cleaned in the milling process and made fir for consumption, the value of one bag of rice becomes six hundred rupees. What is the reason for one sack of paddy costing a mere Rs.100, to assume the value of Rs.600 when it is converted into a sack of rice? The value comes from the process of transformation.

We wear a watch on our wrist. If a wrist watch made of stainless steel is crushed and thrown into fire, the resulting mass of stainless steel will not be worth even a quarter of a rupee (2 annas). But what is the reason for you to pay Rs.1000 and buy the watch? It is the process of refinement. It has been made into a form that we can experience meaningfully. Bolts, nuts, screws, pins, alarms, all have been assembled in the right way in the course of the transformation process. This is what causes the value to rise.   
Since ancient times, Bharatiyas subjected all objects to the process of transformation and enjoyed them. Here is a cloth. But what all processes of transformation it has to undergo to become a cloth. Cotton harvested from the cotton plant has to be dried, the unwanted calyx removed, and then put in a ginning machine to separate the seeds from the lint; the lint has to be spun into yarn in a spinning machine, and the yarn has to be woven into cloth in a weaving mill. We are not enjoying cotton as cotton itself. We subject it to a number of refinement processes and then don the same as cloth.
Likewise, it is futile for man to remain in the same state in which he was born. He should manifest his inherent divinity that is beyond humanity. We must make an attempt to undergo such individual transformation.
20 May 1990


19 August to 25 August 2013
What is true unity?
What is true unity-3.19-1985 August 15

True unity is unity with God

First of all, you must develop purity. When purity develops in you, unity will come to you naturally. When there is unity, Divinity will manifest itself. So long as there is no purity, we will never get unity. Unity with whom? Is mixing with and connecting to our friends, unity? No. no. Primarily, unity must be with God. Once you achieve this (Divine) unity, you will, in a very natural way, get worldly unity.

Worldly unity is only about “Hello, hello, hello, hello”. Is this unity? When there is money in the pocket, when your father’s position is very good, when everything is fine, all will come to you saying “hello, hello”. When the money is gone and the position is gone, there will not be anyone in the world to even say goodbye to you. So long as there is water in the tank, there will be thousands of frogs over there. Once the water dries up, there will not even be one frog over there. Therefore, unity related to the world is all based on money, money and money. Money makes many things, money makes many wrongs. With respect to God, it is “Mann” (mind) and with respect to the world it is money. We must seek unity through the mind. Mind to mind, heart to heart, love to love; not body to body. If we truly wish to achieve unity, we cannot do so by any path other than the Divine path. All things (in this world) undergo change but Divinity never changes. Only when we follow the Atma that never changes, the world can be safe and secure.     

15 August 1985


15 August 2013 Special

What is true freedom-1.19-1985 August 15
What is true freedom-1.19-1985 August 15


What is the meaning of Swatantram (freedom)? Tantram means Atma (Self). Swaa-Tantram means following the Atman, coming under the control of the Atman (Self). Paraadheenam Dukham Atmaadheenam Sukham – One who is under the control of others will be full of sorrow, while one who is under the control of the Atman will be full of happiness. Therefore, it is called Swaatantram, i.e. follow your heart (not physical heart but spiritual heart symbolic of one’s inner/higher Self). Your heart is your Guru; your heart is your God; your heart is your Master. Therefore, it is said – Follow the Master, Finish the Devil, Fight to the End, Finish the Game. Those who follow their heart will gain victory. Thus, follow God.   

15 August 1985

12 August to 18 August 2013

Why do we face difficulties in life, though we think of God?
Why do we face difficulties in life though we think of God-4.00-1998 April 26
Anusmarana – Think of Me constantly

At one point of time Arjuna made a prayer (to Lord Krishna), “Krishna, I am thinking of you continuously, then why should I face these problems (in life)? Why do I need to fight this war? Why do I need to face all these family related anxieties? Why are you bestowing all these difficulties on me?”

Krishna smiled and said, “It is true that you have made Me sit on your chariot. You have made Me sit on the external chariot, but why do you not make Me sit on the inner chariot of your heart? That which is external is Yantra (machine), while that which is internal is Mantra (sacred formula). I am the Mantraswaroopa (personification of Mantra) and not Yantraswaroopa (the personification of Yantra). You feel that you are thinking of Me constantly. Maam Anusmarana Cha – you are doing Smarana but not Anusmarana. Smarana or contemplation is bound by a particular time, discipline and place. But Anusmarana is Sarvada Sarva Kaaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam – contemplation of God always, at all times and everywhere. You will be able to recognize My Divinity only when you practice and experience Anusmarana. Then, these worldly problems will not affect you anymore. Maam Anusmarana Cha. Think of Me even during the war. When you contemplate on Me thus, you will not face any problems in life.”
(Arjuna further asked Krishna) “Swami, I am an ordinary family man. When I am facing all these challenges with my wife and children, with all this property and assets and with the responsibility of ruling a kingdom; how can I think of you constantly?”      
“(Arjuna) these are your duties and you need not give them up. Take care of your wife and children, your property and assets and discharge your duties. These are duties bestowed on you by God. You must necessarily discharge the responsibilities given to you by God. However, even as you do all this, consider it as the prasaadam (gift) of God. If you thus think of Me properly in this manner, you will recognize the Divinity and none of these problems will affect you.”

26 April 1998


05 August to 11 August 2013

What must be the two banks for the river of human life?
The two banks of the river of life-2.15-1990 May 26
Two banks for the river of human life

The Bhagavad Gita has laid down two banks to channelize the flow of its message. In the absence of these banks, the river of life will be subject to many problems, difficulties, and hazards. On one side is an eight lettered mantra and on the other side too there is an eight lettered mantra. The inner meaning is that when the river of life flows in between these two banks of mantras, it will be blessed with peace and happiness and will ultimately reach the sea of Divine Grace.

On one side is the eight lettered mantra – Shra-ddha-vaan-La-bha-the-Jnaa-nam(Shraddhavaan Labhathe Jnaanam: the man of faith acquires supreme wisdom).
On the other side is the eight lettered mantra – Sam-shay-Aat-ma-Vi-nash-ya-te(Samshayaatma Vinashyathi: the one filled with doubts will perish).
Human life can reach its goal only when there is Shraddha(faith) on one side and Nisamshayam (doubtlessness) on the other side. Thus, the Gita declares that faith and freedom from doubts are very essential for human beings.

26 May 1990

July to 04 August 2013

What is the role of Buddhi (Intellect) in human life?
What is the role of Buddhi (Intellect) in human life-3.28-1990 May 26
Intellect is like the charioteer of our life

Dear students, according to the declaration of the Upanishads, we have recognized that the human body is like a chariot, the sense organs are like the horses, and the mind is like the rein. The principle of the body, mind and senses, by themselves, are useless. However beautiful the chariot may be, however dependable the horses, and however firm and secure the reins, all of these are of no use if there is no charioteer. (Similarly, however efficient the body, the senses and the mind may be, they serve no purpose in the absence of the charioteer, namely, buddhi-intellect).

Therefore, in the journey of life, the intellect is of prime importance. It is called Nischayatmika Buddhi, which means that the intellect has the decision-making capacity. In daily life, many difficulties, problems and disturbances arise from time to time. It is the prime duty of man to overcome these obstacles. But then, what is the key to the solution for these problems? It is the Buddhi(intellect). Without the intervention of the intellect, none of our problems and difficulties can be solved. “Samshayaatma Vinasyathi”, (meaning that a man filled with doubts will perish – Bhagavad Gita). Because the Buddhi destroys doubts, it is said (in the Gita) “Buddhi Graahayam Athindriyam”. As the intellect transcends the senses, it takes the form of the one that dispels doubts.

26 May 1990



22 July to 28 July 2013

Who is the true Guru?
Who is the true Guru-3.26-2001 July 05
God is your true Guru

Who is a (true) Guru? Not the Gurus of today! Whispering a Mantra into the ear and stretching one’s hand for money – is this the Guru principle? This is not the Guru principle. Gu-Ru – Gukaro Gunateethaha Rukaro Rupavarjithaha. We must consider the principle that is beyond attributes (attributeless) and that transcends the form (formless) as the Guru. Therefore the Guru is very essential for us to understand this principle, which is beyond attributes. Since it is difficult to get such Gurus, consider God as your Guru.

It is stated in the Vedas, Shastras, Itihaasa (history) and Puranas, and quoted by Shankara:
Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu,
Gurur Devo Maheswara,
Gurur Saakshat Para Brahma,
Thasmai Sri Gurave Namaha.
Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu,
Guru is Lord Maheswara,
Guru is verily the Para Brahman,
My salutations to such a Guru.
Guru is everything for me. He is Vishnu, He is Shiva, He is Brahma, He is everything. Therefore, in this world, everything is a manifestation of Divinity. Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma (verily all this is Brahman). Whomsoever we see, they are embodiments of Divinity. Whomsoever we see, they are verily the form of Vishnu. We are witnessing the Vishwa Viraata Swaroopa (Cosmic form of the Lord). The Vedas have said, Sahasra Seersha Purushaha Sahasraaksha Sahasra Padh (With thousands of heads, thousands of feet and thousands of eyes, Divinity pervades everything). Whomsoever we offer our salutations, Easwara Sarva Bhutaanaam – it amounts to saluting God Himself; this was their practice. Sarva Bhuta Namaskaaram Kesavam Pratigachchati, Salutations to all beings reach Keshava and Iswara (God). Why? Because, Eswara Sarva Bhotaanaam (God is the indweller of all beings); Isaavaasyam Idam Jagath (the entire universe is permeated by the principle of God).
Therefore, one cannot restrict Divinity to a particular place. Here, there and everywhere, there is only one Atman (God) present everywhere. There is only one who resides in the heart. The same Iswaratva(Divine Iswara principle) exists in all. The Vishnutwa (Divine Vishnu principle) in all is the same. We are developing differences only out of our delusion, but there are no differences in Divinity. Sarvam Khalvidam(everything is Divine). Gurus in those days were created to propagate such principle of oneness. Today there are many good disciples, but it is very difficult to find a true and noble Guru.
05 July 2001



15 July to 21 July 2013
What is the true meaning of surrendering to God?
What is the true meaning of surrendering to God-1990 May 24
Do your best and leave the rest to Him!

Just because you surrender to God, does it mean God will take care of everything? The duty that you need to perform has to be carried out. Kartavyam Yoga Muchyate – You must discharge your duty properly. It is sheer laziness to give up your duty and consider that God will take care of everything.

To ensure that the food in the plate reaches your stomach, is it not necessary to make use of your hands and mouth? Just looking at the food in the plate if you keep repeating “potato chapatti” any number of times, will it ever fill your stomach? You do have the strength. In case you do not have the strength, then at least it may be fine to just leave everything to God. Whether you have the strength or not, perform all your activities as an offering to God.   
24 May 1990

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