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When we put a Ceiling on our Desires we get happiness

Man is drowned in unhealthy desires and overpowered by sorrow. In order to remove this sorrow, we have advised the control of desires. The inner significance of this is that only when we put a ceiling on our desires, we can get happiness. However, even you, the Sadhakas, are not able to understand the meaning of this correctly.

Do not waste Money, Food, Time and Energy

In our Organization, there are four important aspects related to “Ceiling on Desires”. The first one is, “Do not waste money”. The second one is, “Do not waste food”. The third one is, “Do not waste time”. The fourth one is, “Do not waste your energy”. Therefore,

Bhagawan wants only your Love!

Sai has not started this Organisation with the desire for money. My wish is that you must control your desires, walk along the path of detachment and enjoy the Divine Bliss. But without understanding these sacred feelings of Mine, you all have considered the saving and offering of money to the Organization as the prime purpose of the practice of “Ceiling on Desires”. This is not the correct approach.

Love, Service and Sadhana The Three Pillars of the SSSO

Merely reading the texts and listening to Discourses cannot make an impact on the heart. To touch the heart and make an impact on it, one must engage in service. One who does not undertake service has no right to talk or preach. Therefore, to acquire the right to speak, one must necessarily engage in service. Seva is the primary Sadhana. To whomsoever we serve, we must regard that we are serving God. We must consider that we are undertaking all activities to please God.

Always aspire to be Service Oriented

Embodiments of Divine Atma, the Sathya Sai Seva members, the Sathya Sai Sevadals, the Sathya Sai Seva Samithi, the Sathya Sai Balvikas – all these are always associated with the word Seva, Seva, Seva. Therefore, we must always aspire to be Sevaks (servants) and in the process attain the position of leadership, but not run after the aspiration to become leaders directly. If we enquire into the situation correctly, we find that in the Western countries, the one who is a Sevak today becomes a leader overnight. She/he becomes a leader or a Guru. You can imagine the harm that such Gurus can bring about. Therefore do not think about becoming Gurus, always entertain the noble thoughts of being a Sevak forever.

Enter Service – Practice Sacrifice

All people and specifically all members of the Sathya Sai Organization must enter into service activities. We must nurture sacrifice, sacrifice, sacrifice. There are so many wealthy and rich people. They are rich only for name sake but there is no sacrifice in their action. They do not even perform the meritorious act of giving somebody a glass of water. No, no. This is not human life. Sacrifice, sacrifice and sacrifice. Therefore, the Vedas have proclaimed, “Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena Tyage Naike Amrutatva Maanashuhu” (Not by action, not by progeny, nor by wealth; it is by sacrifice alone that one can attain immortality). We must attain this form of immortality. 

In Service, there must be no differences

In the matter of service and bending your body and working, no differences of any type must be entertained, either by the members or the seniors of the Organization. When it comes to service, without having any differences in your mind, in a collective manner, considering all as the children of God; you must provide help and support.

Remove feelings of Mine and Thine

All the material objects in the world that give you comfort and joy are not for the use of one single individual. All have a right to it. Each one should put in an effort to experience her/his share of it. It rains, the river flows, the crop grows, the sun and the moon shine; all these activities are not meant for any one single individual. We must recognize the truth that each one has a right to experience these joys and comforts. The Sevadals must strive to remove the narrow minded feelings of “this is mine” (mine) and “this is yours” (thine). They must give up narrow minded ideas, must be contented with what they get and must help others with a sense of gratitude. They must understand that this is the true form of Worship. 

Adopt and Feed one poor person a day

In this conference, we must adopt one new practice. In this country there are so many poor people, forlorn people, sick people and others who are challenged in different ways. Each family must be prepared to nurture one poor person. Each family must offer food and protection to a poor person, thus preventing her/him from going to the market place to beg for food. Each family must welcome and offer food to at least one poor person every day. In this country that has assumed the form of Annapoorneshwari (Goddess of Food), if there is no one to feed the people who cry out, “Annamo Ramachandraha” (Oh Rama give me food), how then, can we call this country as Annapoorna Kshetra (land of the Goddess of food)?

God alone is the witness to the selfless service of the SSSO Members

Not just that, in many parts of the organization (SSSO), right from young children to old people; all of them are doing so much Seva. Selfless service can be seen only in the SSSO. In Bharath, a few months back, in West and East Godavari, the Pushkara festival was celebrated where lakhs of people congregated (Since time immemorial, river worship, known as “Pushkaram”, is performed to make people realize the importance of water, the life-sustaining force. Pushkaram is a holy happening once in every 12 years at each of the 12 major rivers of India, the Godavari being one among them. Every 12th year Jupiter’s entry into the constellation Leo marks the Pushkaram for Godavari). Even in Krishna district, thousands of people assembled for the Krishna Pushkara. The Seva done by the men and women over there is something that only the eyes which have witnessed it can understand and not the fools who only speak. God alone is the witness to the tolerance exhibited by them to all the impurity (dirt) around and to the sacred seva done by them in cleaning and sweeping the place.

Live like Children of One Mother

Embodiments of Divine Atma, all members who have joined the Sathya Sai Sevadal and the Sathya Sai Samithi must consider themselves as children of one Mother. You must make an effort not to have any differences of opinions, and must avoid exhibition of qualities like jealousy and ostentation. 

Be Humble

Embodiments of Divine Atma! Most importantly, all those who join as members in the Sathya Sai Organization must lead a humble life without pride or ego. One should not exhibit any pride that she/he is the State President, District President or the Samithi Head. So long as there is ego, you can never be a leader. Therefore, it is better to remove such people with pride from their leadership position. You should develop yourself into a servant and not into a leader. It is only a Kinkara(servant) who can become a Shankara (wise one or great one). First of all, we must make an attempt to reduce the ego in us gradually.

Give up Jealousy

The second aspect is jealousy. Looking at the good of others and their name and fame, others make their eyes red (become jealous). Jealousy is a bad disease. On account of this disease, one loses one’s humanity. Human nature which is Divine is transformed into a Demonic one. Therefore, we must ensure that we do not allow the demon of jealousy to get into us.

Do not be Ostentatious

Next is ostentation and exhibitionism. You must not start exhibiting that they have prepared Sakkarpongal (sweet rice) for Bhajans (as Prasadam) and so I will prepare Laddus (sweet balls). Yet in another instance, one individual may try to spend more money to be more ostentatious than someone else who has been very ostentatious. In our Organization, we must not give any scope for ostentation relating to misuse or wastage of money. It is said that misuse of money is evil. It is also said that wealth is the very form of (Goddess) Lakshmi. If we misuse Lakshmi (wealth) it would amount to misuse of our very goal. When there are times of necessity, you can spend anything and even give your own life to protect someone. You must not waste money in unnecessary matters, just for the sake of name and fame.

Follow and Propagate Sai Ideals

Embodiments of Divine Atma, today (representatives of) the whole world (have) has assembled in Prasanthi Nilayam, moving about as elder and younger brothers and sisters. This is a sight for the whole world to see. This is the right opportunity. Recognizing this opportunity, you all must determine as office bearers, to promote the sacred Dharma, and stand as shining examples and ideal role models. This is My wish. Those of you, who wish to stand as ideal role models for the world, will have to propagate the need for one common and uniform discipline amongst all of you. Our feelings may be different, our intentions may be different, our nations may be different, our religions may be different, our languages may be different; but the ideals of Sai can never be different. Therefore, those of you who are office bearers in Sai Organizations, must necessarily understand the oneness of Sai ideals and practice and propagate the same to the world.

Have a Steady Heart and Pure Mind

Today the world is becoming mad for wealth, authority and position; but it is necessary that the leaders of the Sathya Sai Organization become mad for the sake of their ideals. Today the world does not need a new religion, a new Mantra or a new society. An unwavering heart and a pure mind are most essential.

See Unity in Diversity

Without the practice of unity, one cannot realize what this life is all about. So much of diversity (difference of opinions) appears in humanity because each one wishes to follow her/his individual feelings. This is not what must be experienced or accepted in the Sathya Sai Organization. We must have conviction in and must have the vision of Unity in Diversity. Because we are unable to have the vision of Unity in Diversity, differences surface and hatred is on the rise. Where there is no Unity, enmity appears. In the world around we do not come across a sense of unity or Love. Life therefore becomes superficial.

Do not encourage distinction of any type

In the Sathya Sai Organization there must be no distinction based on caste, religion, lineage or race. All are the children of one God. When we promote this type of unity, Divinity will certainly shine forth. 

Regard the Whole World as One Home

All the office bearers (of the SSSO) must engage in Desha Seva (service to the nation) and Samaja Seva (service to the society). Considering and feeling the entire world as one home, they must perform their activities. This must be their primary aim.

SSSO must be distinct

You must conduct yourselves in such a way as to project a clear distinction between the other Organizations that exists in the world and the Sathya Sai Organization.

SSSO is Unique!

Today the whole world has recognized that, if there is any Organization that is sacred, ideal and united, it is the Sathya Sai Organization. There are many organizations in the world. But the conduct, practice and speech (communication) that is there in Sathya Sai Organization, is not to be found elsewhere.

The Sacrifice made by SSSO Members is beyond description

Truly, the sacrifice being made by the Sathya Sai Organization is beyond description. For all this, it is your Love which is the main basis. One small example: The Veda chanting goes on…Sahana Vavatu Sahanau Bhunaktu (May He protect us both together; may He nourish us both together), but this forbearance has only been in words from ancient times. However, today the (members of the) Sathya Sai Organization is (are) showing this in practice. This forbearance can be acquired only through Love and not through any other path. One small example: So many wealthy people have come here. So many men and women who always live in comfort have come here. Many have come who have never bent their back and done any work. For each one there may have been (in their homes) a separate bedroom of 20’ x 20’ size, but that is of no consequence to them. You can imagine how such comfort loving people, such wealthy and rich people, have been living in Prasanthi Nilayam with so much of forbearance. They are not aspiring for any conveniences. They have no desire for any comfort. Wherever they get (a place) they put up with all the difficulties and wait for receiving Swami’s Love. You will not get this kind of forbearance in any other organization or congregation.   

Your Love is the prime basis for everything

Embodiments of Love, the whole world is recognizing the sacred feelings that are prevalent in Sathya Sai Organization. In a bag of rice, it is but natural to find few stones. In this ordinary world, being mere human beings, few may commit some mistakes. But this will not make any (negative) impact on the Organization. Truly, the sacrifice being made by the (members of the) Sathya Sai Organization is beyond description. For all these things, it is your love that is the prime basis.

Practice the Resolutions taken

Embodiments of love, let anyone talk good or ill about you, let anyone praise or criticize you, do not get elated nor depressed; you must determine to continue to engage in your Seva with genuine feelings, and seek fulfilment in this life and realize your Divinity. Most importantly, it is not enough to put on paper the resolutions taken in this Conference. They should take the form of action (practice). Every person should manifest these ideals in their experience.

Members of SSSO are like its Spinal Column

Members of the Sathya Sai Organization are like the spinal column of the body. If the office bearers do not conduct themselves along the right path, the very spinal column of the organization will get broken. Therefore do not lead the organization along the wrong path. Get a good name by leading the Sathya Sai Organization, which is an ideal for all other organizations; along the Divine, holy, and ultimate path. There can be no connection between money and the Sathya Sai Organization. Any organization having link with money cannot be Sathya Sai Organization at all. Love for love and heart for heart alone can bring about proximity and bonding. 

No connection between SSSO and Money

You all must live in unity, manifest your Divinity, promote the same, and determine to uphold the culture of ancient traditions of Bharath. You must develop the broad mindedness that service to man is service to God. Discard the narrow feelings of me and mine. The problems of the world today can be solved only through Love. Because of lack of love, humans are behaving worse than the cruel animals in the forest. Therefore, promoting the feeling of love and getting rid of the narrow minded feelings, you must engage in service to society with a Divine broad (generous) heart.

Sai wants your Virtues, not Money

What Sai wishes is the wealth of virtues and not this miserable wealth. Even the Sathya Sai Organization will have no necessity of wealth. They are doing Bhajans, Nagar Sankeertan, Social service, Seva in Hospitals. Why do you need money for any of these (activities)? If virtues and according to that, strength is there; if Icchha Shakti (will power or strong wish) and Kriya Shakti(strength or power of action) is there; then there need not be any relationship between these noble activities and money. It is not that there are no associations (among SSSO), which proclaim that money is required for carrying out such noble activities. Such associations are actually bringing disrepute to the Sathya Sai Organization. Even if there are 10 associations that relate to the Sai ideals, they are enough. Why these 100 and 1000s of associations? We do not need them. One teaspoon full of cow’s milk is enough, why barrels and barrels of donkey’s milk?

Maya is very powerful. It can delude anybody

Embodiments of Divine Atma, even as we get onto the path of spirituality in different ways, perform various sacred activities and undertake service to society; Maya (delusion) which is very powerful, engulfs man and makes him take onto many wrong paths. Death is sweeter than the blindness of ignorance. The engulfing Maya is so powerful that it can delude any type of person within a few seconds.

Never beg or ask for money

One more point. Even for small trivial matters and for small trivial programmes, money is being collected. There are many rich people, many able bodied people. Even if 1 or 2 of them get together, so much work can be accomplished. Our Organization should never get into the act of going unnecessarily from house to house and begging for money. Here is a small example.

Never give cash to anyone, Deposit directly into the account of the Trust, if you wish to

I am wishing that none of you (members of SSSO) take the Sathya Sai Organization on the path of collecting money. Rather, you should perform the Sadhana of taking the Organization along the path of developing virtues and present the model of an ideal life to the world. Those who are interested and enthusiastic and have the ability to give may contribute anything to the Health and Education Trust. Sai has no objection to that. Here also, there is a simple solution. Do not give any money into anyone’s hands. Those of you who are enthusiastic may directly go to a known bank and deposit the money in the account according to your ability and take the receipt. But do not give money directly into the hands of any individual. If you do so, you will be responsible in making the sacred name of Sathya Sai unsacred.

If you need anything, come to Me I will give!

Swami has no desire for anything. The Sathya Sai Organization must progress further through the quality of sacrifice. Then alone will the nation of Bharath be restored to its glorious ancient culture. This is not that far. Very soon there will be a resurgence of our ancient culture. Therefore, all members of the Sathya Sai Organization must develop sacred feelings, nurture sacred thoughts and perform all actions with noble thoughts. Then there is bound to be victory. Therefore what we need to do is this: never stretch your hand before anyone. If you have any necessity, come to Me, I will give you. Why do you stretch your hand like this?  In fact members of the organization that stretches its hand like this are not devotees at all. They all will become “beggars”. But we must become “biggers’. We must set an example by living an ideal life. We must engage in activities that are selfless.  We should help the poor, we must respect the forlorn. Only when we undertake service activities like this, we can be called devotees.

Take back all your money I only want your pure Love!

Since today the office bearers (of SSSO) of all the States of India are here, whatever money has been extracted from different states, whatever wealth has been got by begging from different districts; I am returning all that money of 60 lakhs got from begging, back to you. You only make use of this. From whatever district you have collected this money, use it in the same district to help the poor and forlorn people by doing service in the right way. The only thing I seek from you, for which My Hand turns for receiving (palm upwards), is your pure, serene and selfless Love. For no other thing will My Hand ever turn to receive. For everything else, My Hand will always turn to give (palm downwards). Therefore, recognize the truth that in the name of Sathya Sai (Organization) if any money is collected, it can never be connected to Sathya Sai. You must also act accordingly. I do not desire for this, I have never desired for this and I will never desire for this (wealth or money). What I seek is sacred feelings alone. Even these sacred feelings are not for My sake. They are for the welfare of the world. For the welfare of the world, the members of the Sathya Sai Organization must develop a sacred heart, enter into this world, clean the dirt that has accumulated and promote a Divine environment. Our work is Seva, Seva, Seva. This must be our primary aim.

Our business is Love to Love, Heart to Heart

Today even spiritual organizations are becoming commercial establishments. But Sathya Sai Organization must not become a commercial establishment. What sort of business must be there? Heart to Heart and Love to Love. We must get into the business of giving and receiving. Herein, there cannot be a relationship with any object or with money or with anything else. An Organization that develops a relationship with (material) objects and with money can never make any progress. Therefore we must aspire for union of heart with the heart that is truly close to the Divine. We must connect Love with Love. We must join our hands and do service. In this manner we can experience the Viswa Viraata Swarupa (Cosmic Form).

To protect a sapling, we need a fence

Today, we have decided to accept certain regulations and discipline for the Sathya Sai Organization. Why do we need all such controls and regulations? Many enquire whether such regulations are necessary even on the spiritual path. A small example to illustrate this point: A plant would not grow just by watering it. It is necessary to protect it by building a fence around it, thus preventing any damage to it by animals. Once the plant becomes a tree, we would not need any fence. In the same way, we have planted the sapling of our spirituality in us. There are so many forces in this world which try to attack it. In order to protect (this sapling), we will have to have some regulations in the form of a fence. When it grows fully and bears fruits, we would not need any of these regulations. By that time you would be a total Sarva Sangha Parityagi(total renunciant). But before becoming a Sarva Sangha Parityagi, if you do not practice this discipline, you will make no progress.

All are Brothers and Sisters

Here, we consider all as brothers and sisters. In the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, we are practising with faith, specifically, the discipline of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God. Therefore, be it America or Germany or Japan or Russia, he remains your brother only. But in the name of brother, brother (brotherhood), we cannot have a separate rule for America, a separate rule for Japan and a separate rule for Russia. All Sai brothers (members of the Sai Organization) must follow the same path.

Ladies and Gents must be seated separately

A small example to illustrate the point: In Bharath, in sacred Prasanthi Nilayam, men and women are seated separately; and in such conferences, each one goes about doing her/his own work and discharging her/his own duty. This is the tradition in the Sai organizations. In the same way, so many of you have come from America, South Africa, Germany, Italy, etc. This same discipline has to be observed even in your own respective countries.

Control of Mind is necessary

Some Westerners argue “We men and women sit together (in a mixed manner and not separately) and sing Bhajans; it is not possible for us, men and women to sit separately; this is our tradition; this has been our culture right from the beginning”. But this culture has to be changed. Only when it is changed, you will become devotees. If you keep saying, it is our culture, our culture, then you will never become devotees any day. Be it Westerners or the Bharatiyas, we have to sacrifice some of our past practices and unnecessary traditions. This is the spiritual path. Chanchalam Hi Manah Krishna Pramaathi Balavad Dridham(Gita 6:34 – O Krishna, this mind is restless, stubborn and strong). The courageous and heroic Arjuna himself says that he cannot control his mind. Therefore, the mind is like a mad monkey. To control this mind we have to practice very rigorously some type of discipline. 

SSSO has not been established to propagate the name of Sathya Sai

It is essential to recognize the truth that these organizations have not been established to propagate the name of Sathya Sai. As so many other organizations have come forth in the world on account of which atheism is on the rise and theism is on the decline, such organizations (SSSO) have been started so that at least a few people will spread across the nation and across the world and preach the noble ideals. 

Call the Centres as Sathya Sai Centres

Sathya Sai Organizations in America, Mexico and other countries are called as Sai Baba Centres. There is no difference between Sai Baba and Sathya Sai Baba. However, the physical body of Sai Baba and the related organization is different. The physical body of Sathya Sai and the related organization is different. Therefore, if we enquire from a worldly point of view, differences do arise between Sai Baba Centres and Sathya Sai Baba Centres. In the name of Sai Baba Centres, a lot of preaching and propagation goes on. If we become one with them, we will have no authority to point out the good and bad in them. We will have every right to go to those who call their Centres as Sathya Sai Centres and point out the good and bad aspects in them and help them to walk on the right path. It is not only from the authority (to speak) point of view that we need to have this practice, but coming together like this, will make it possible to help them to lead an ideal life along the righteous path. It is not right for members of one organization to go and join another organization or to have relationships and connections between two different organizations.

Set up a Council of Management

In the Western countries it is not possible to have the name “Sathya Sai Seva Organizations”, because they would not understand the meaning of the word “Seva”. They would mistake it for just “Service”. Calling it “Service Organizations” would also not convey the right meaning. Hence it is advisable to call them as just “Sathya Sai Centres”. Members of the Western nations, it is necessary to address you all in specific. There are certain differences in the traditions and practices of Bharath and your nations. Each Samithi, each Bhajan Mandali, each Seva Centre, each Study Circle, and each Satsangh may operate as independent units. However, for each nation it is necessary to have a Council of Management consisting of 5 or 10 members who would oversee the activities of all these units.

Selection and not Election

Some people are being troubled by some doubts. There are few who do not understand the feelings of the office bearers of the International Sathya Sai Organization. They are also not recognizing the connection and interrelationship with the World Council. An effort is being made to have some specific individuals as representatives for certain nations. How do we determine these representatives? Who will determine these representatives?  Some people have lot of misunderstanding regarding this. Basing on the wishes of the devotees over there and according to their likes, they would like to select a representative. If we go by this approach, then there will be politics and it will be followed by election. In election, the love is completely destroyed. We will be misusing our love. If we wish to truly promote our love, then we must have selection and must not get into election. This selection must be done through the Central Trust. Fighting and creating chaos amongst themselves, they must not divide themselves in the course of arguing over matters.

Work in Unison and Harmony

Be it the Samithi, or the Study Circle, or the Seva Dal; some wish that these should operate completely independent of each other, without any relation or connection between them. This is not correct. There must be a close link between all these units. A small example. This finger is the Seva Samithi. This other finger is the Mahila Vibhag – Women’s Wing. The middle finger is the Seva Dal. The next finger is the Bal Vikas. The last finger is the Bhajana Mandali. If these five fingers are chopped off and made independent, what remains? It is only when these five work collectively that we can accomplish any task. Therefore, in our organization, it is not possible for any unit to operate independently. All these units are like the rivers that flow into the ocean. Rivers have different names and forms before they merge into the ocean. Even the taste (of their water) is different. But once they merge into the ocean, they lose their individual name, form and taste and assume the name, form and taste of the ocean. Therefore, all citizens of all nations must become one with respect to the ideals of Sai.

Entire Humanity is One Family

Every individual, with a narrow minded feeling refers to “Brothers and Sisters of the Sai Family”. “Sai Family, Sai Family”, this is such a narrow minded feeling. Therefore, henceforth, do not use the term “Sai Family”. That is, do not use the term “Sai”, because all belong to the human family. Some may like Sai, others may like Rama, yet others may like Krishna. In this congregation, there are so many people with different tastes and likings. I do not have such narrow minded feelings. You are all not members of a “Sai Family”. You are all members of the Divine Family of God. God is the same for all nations, for all families, for all times. One Name and one Form is a narrow minded approach. We must develop the broad mindedness that all Names and all Forms are One.

Spread the Message through Love

We do not need any great publicity. We do not need to have any advertisement. Silence is our advertisement. We must work silently. There must be only mind to mind, love to love and body to body connection. You must acquire love only through love. Love will expand in the entire world. What is spoken somewhere, when broadcast on the radio, can be heard this very second in Kadugodi (Whitefield, Bangalore). Similarly, our noble thoughts are like radio waves. These waves have to spread only through love and not through broadcast. Prachaaram (publicity) is not at all the Aachaaram (practice) of the Sathya Sai Organization. Aachaaram (practice) is our Prachaaram (publicity). Therefore, with such sacred practice, we must develop our Organization, making it well known across the world. With the love principle, we must make the entire world stand like one family. 

Spiritual Conferences purify our Minds

When we are unable to see our own form, we hold a mirror in front of us. Similarly, when we are unable to recognize our Satvic (pious) qualities and Divine nature, we need to participate in such conferences, hold the Satsangha (good company) as a mirror and make an attempt to see our own true form. Whatever we see and hear in this world are all a reflection of our own inner feelings. When we think and reflect on our good and noble feelings, we will become deserving of witnessing our true form. Without cleaning the impurity that engulfs our mind, even if we take bath ten times, we will continue to remain impure. Therefore, we must recognize that these conferences are instrumental in purifying our minds. 

The Four Inner Instruments (Antahkarana) of the Human Mind Image Source

Students, the Manas (mind), the Buddhi (intellect), the Chitta (memory / awareness), and the Ahankaara(ego), constitute the Anthahkarana of the mind. What is the meaning of Antahkarana? Karana means instruments. Therefore, Antahkarana means inner instruments. Many describe these in so many complex ways like Vedanta (but it is very simple). The eyes see outside, the ears hear outside, the tongue speaks outside, the hands perform activities outside, the nose detects smells outside. All these have a certain form. But mind has no form. The intellect has no form. The memory or awareness has no form and even the ego has no form. The collective formlessness of these four instruments constitutes their true form. These (inner instruments) have four kinds of defects. The first is Braanthi(delusion), the second is Pramaadi (danger), the third is Karanaapaatana(weakness of the senses) and the fourth is Vipralipsa (jealousy). It is these four defects that pollute the Antahkarana.

Braanthi (Delusion) is what makes us see the unreal as real Image Source

The first defect is Braanthi. It is delusion. What type of delusion is this? It refers to a state of mind in which a person mistakes, for instance, a rope for a snake and a snake for a rope. In other words, he regards the unreal (temporary) as real (permanent) and the real (permanent) as unreal (temporary). Such delusions invariably lead to accidents or dangerous situations (pramaadam). If you hold a snake thinking it is a rope, you are certainly in for trouble. Man today regards the body as real. No. No. The body is like a water bubble. We never know when, where and in what way it will burst. This is not real. The body is just a cage of bones (skeleton). It is full of faeces, urine, bad odour and flesh; and does not emanate any good fragrance (Bhagawan here uses a phrase “Punugu Javadi Puttabodu” Punugu is a civet cat, a nocturnal mammal native to tropical Asia and Africa, which historically has been the main species from which was obtained a musky scent used in perfumery; Javadi refers to a perfume like Pomatum. Therefore, Bhagawan says that the human body does not emanate any such fragrances). Assuming such a body to be real, we are losing the strength that is needed to put this body into proper use.

Sense Organs have no life of their own Image Source

Students understand one thing clearly. Eyes, ears, mouth and nose all do exist. If we consider that it is the eyes which see, ears which hear, tongue which speaks (and nose which smells); then after death, we have the same eyes, same ears, same nose, and same tongue. Why does it not speak, why does it not see, why does it not hear? If you are the body verily, then why can you not see then (after death)? Because, the power that enables the eyes to see is absent.   

Human Body is like a Big Torch Light Image Source

The human body is like a big torch light. The eyes are like the bulb of the torch. Buddhi (intellect) is like the switch. A big torch, a big bulb, and the switch is also on, but there is no light. Why? What is the reason? There are no cells in the torch. Because there are no cells in the torch, we do not get light. Our blood cells are like these cells and each blood cell is embedded with Divine energy. Sometimes, the cells may be there but their power would have been exhausted. That power is the Divine power. So long as this Divine Power is in the body, the body performs various functions.    

Who belongs to whom? Who is related to whom?

Considering this (human body) as real, we subject ourselves to danger. We do not repose our faith in those whom we ought to, but we place our faith in things in which we ought not to. How long can you have people whom you consider as “mine” and “belonging to me”. Who belongs to whom? Can you consider your parents who have brought you up all along and nurtured you in so many ways, as yours? Yes, so long as they are alive, you must respect them, you must serve them and you must satisfy them. This is your duty, your dharma. Everybody have their own respective duties. While coming into this world, nobody gets even a piece of cloth and while leaving the world, nobody even gives their address. Who is related to whom?

You are not thinking about the nuisance coming from within you

Students of today are also like this. They are not making an attempt to understand their true nature. They aspire to know everything that is going on in foreign countries. What is going on in that country, what is going on in this country, you are trying to know everything that is going on in foreign regions; but are you putting in an effort to know what is going on in your own body? You are only receiving the news that is coming from outside, but you are not thinking about the nuisance that is coming from within you. Therefore, first of all realize your own Self (who you truly are). Try to rectify and correct yourself. Then you can try to mend others. This is the primary aspect that students must recognize first. Therefore, on account of delusion, danger sets in.   

Karanaapaatana is the weakness of the senses Image Source

The third defect is Karanaapaatanaa. What is Karanaapaatanaa? Karana means the sense organs (instruments). Apaatana means weakness. Therefore, the third defect is the weakness of the senses. The senses get affected by a disease. The mind experiences through these senses that are affected by the disease. Consequently, the mind also becomes diseased. What is this disease that affects the senses? Senses never represent to you things as they are. They always behave in accordance to the time (context).   

Your Bull killed my Bull or my Bull killed your Bull? Image Source

A small example: There was a great landlord who stayed in a village. He was the most senior person in all aspects in that village. In the same village, there was a farmer who came from the middle class of the society. One day, in a field on the outskirts of the village, the bull of the landlord (by name Reddy) and the bull of the middle class farmer were grazing. On account of some reason, the two bulls started fighting with each other. Due to this fight, there were some injuries in some parts of the body and the bull of the landlord fell down and died. The middle class farmer was terrified. The landlord is the head of the village, a very wealthy person, having a very great name. My bull has killed his bull. I wonder what punishment he will give me, thought the middle class farmer. Very frightened, he came running to the house of the Landlord.

When you get Jaundice, you see everything as yellow Image Source

Thus senses suffer from a type of disease. Let us say you get malaria fever. Prior to this fever, whatever food you ate, spicy tasted as spicy, salty as salty, bitter as bitter, and sweet as sweet. But once you caught the Malaria fever, even when you ate a Laddu (sweet ball), it tasted bitter. Now, is this the defect of the object? No, it is the defect of the senses? When you are good and healthy, you see white as white, red as red and black as black. But once you get Jaundice, everything appears yellow to you. Thus, as the mind follows the senses that are affected by this disease, the mind also becomes diseased. Karanaapaatana implies that on account of the defects of the senses, humanity is deteriorating.

There is no medicine  in this whole world  for jealousy Image Source

Vipralipsa means jealousy. Jealousy is a very bad quality in humans. One can never tolerate seeing someone else happy. When one sees someone else happy, one is not able to bear with it. There may be a medicine for any other disease in any nation, but for curing the disease of jealousy, there is no medicine in this entire world. Not being able to accept and bear with somebody else being happy, is a very bad quality in humans. Be happy when you see goodness / happiness (in others). Be happy when you see others giving happiness. But never develop jealousy towards this or that person.

Image Source

How is this selfishness present in students? When you get into any bus while travelling, there would be many old people, women, children and even sick people in the queue. Do you have a broad mind to think thus: “I am a student with a strong physique. Oh poor people, let them get a seat.” No. No. You feel that I alone must get a seat in the bus. Let anything happen to others. Because of such extreme selfishness, jealousy sets in. Give first priority to weak people, children and women. If you get a seat, fine. If not, walk a little distance. By walking you will get two types of conveniences and benefits. By walking, the body will have a good exercise. And also, if you walk for a mile, you will save the money that you would have been otherwise charged (had you taken the bus). This is the type of broadmindedness that you must develop.

Image Source

Students, in the very first instance, destroy the jealousy in you. You are the very embodiment of sacredness. The Vedas declare as such – Shrinwantu Vishwe Amritasya Putrah (Hark yea on the earth, the children of immortality). It declares – Son, you are the child of immortality. Therefore, develop Vishaal Buddhi(broad mindedness). Reduce the unsteadiness of your senses. Thereby, you will achieve purity of the mind. Then alone you will be a man with Trikarna Shuddhi (purity of three instruments – purity and unity of thought, word and deed). 

See good, Hear good, Think good, Talk good, Do good

Thus we can purify the mind and the Antahkarana and remove the dirt therein by Satkarma (good actions), Sadbhuddhi(good intellect), Sadaalochana (good thoughts) and Satchintana (good feelings). Thus it is said that you must see only good and should not see bad, you must hear only good and should not hear bad. So, first of all develop such feelings. There is only one requirement for Chitta Shuddhi (purity of the mind):

Youth is the right age to undertake cleansing of the Mind

Therefore, students, mind by itself cannot see. It can see only through the senses. It cannot talk on its own. It can speak only through the senses. Thus, if we keep the senses in good shape, the mind will also remain pure and sacred. Therefore, you youth, when you have Deha Shakti (physical strength), Mana Shakti (mental strength), Adhyaatmika Shakti (spiritual strength) and Indriya Shakti (strength of the senses) all intact in this age; if you do not control your senses, how then can you control them in your old age? This is the time when you must earn God’s Grace to the maximum extent possible. When the tank is filled with rain water in Monsoon, the water can be used during the Summer. This is the best season for you. In this age you must increase God’s Grace on you and you must fill your heart with it. Only if you develop this now, you will have the opportunity to put it to good use in the future.     

Seeing and yet, Not Seeing

Likewise, it has been said: “Pasyannapicha Na Pasyathi Moodho” (Even while seeing, the fool does not see). That is, even while seeing God, experiencing God and enjoying God, he deludes himself saying, “I want to see God”. Such a person is a Moodho – a fool. Everything that man sees – is it not a manifestation of God? Everything that man experiences – is it not an expression of the Divine? All that man enjoys – is it not a form of the Divine? Is God to be found in any distinct place? Bliss is the very form of God. Everything that is seen is Divine. The world itself is God. Therefore, “Pasyannapicha Na Pasyathi Moodho”. Thus, man performs actions, but is under the delusion that he is not doing any action. He sees God, but is under the delusion that he is not seeing God. There are three reasons for this aberration. Mala, Vikshepa and Aavarana.

Mind is the basis for all this Creation

Mano Moolam Idam Jagath – The entire creation is based on the mind. Whether it is happiness or sorrow, merit or sin, truth or untruth, injustice or violence; all these take place inside the mind of man. The mind is the cause for everything. Mana Eva Manushyaanaam Kaaranam Bandha Mokshayoho – The mind is the cause for both bondage and liberation. The mind is like a clean mirror. But it does not have a self-luminous capacity. It takes shelter under the sense organs. The mind sees through the eyes. It cannot see on its own. It hears through the ears, but has no capacity to hear on its own. In this manner, the mind carries out its work and functions through all the sense organs. Consequently, the offences committed by the senses are reflected in the mirror of mind. These sense organs are associated with the thought processes. Then, who is to be blamed and held responsible? The sense organs or the mind? No blame attaches to the mind per se. It is only the association with the senses that pollutes the mind. According to the Scriptures, the mind is subject to three kinds of defects: Mala, Vikshepa, and Aavarana.

Mala is dust on the mirror of the mind

Mala refers to a mental state comparable to a dust-covered mirror. One can see one’s reflection clearly only when the dust on the mirror is wiped away. The heart that is naturally pure is covered by impurities created by the three gunas related to our life (Satva, Rajas and Tamas). These impurities can be removed only when we put in an effort. However, instead of removing these impurities, we are adding on more impurities to them. Consequently we are unable to perceive the unsullied, eternal Spirit (Atman) within us.

Mala is the dirt accumulated in the mind over births

What is Mala? In life, man commits many offences, knowingly or unknowingly. Not only in this life but also in previous lives, birth after birth, many mistakes are committed. The dirt associated with these defects is imprinted on the chitta (memory), life after life, birth after birth. When dirt /dust gets accumulated on the surface of the mirror (of the mind), we cannot get a true reflection of ourselves in the mirror. On account of this, man is unable to see clearly the reflection of his real identity, recognize his true Self, in the mirror of his mind. Hence, it is necessary to put in efforts to cleanse the mirror of the impurities covering it. How can we clean this mirror? What is the methodology? What is the approach to be followed to clean the (mirror of the) mind? This cleansing is done by regulating one’s food and other living habits. Past is past. What is gone is gone. At least in the present we must follow the right path and make an effort to cleanse the mind.

Mala can be removed gradually by consuming pure food

Students who are youth should consume pure food that is free from all defects. Under any circumstances, we must not partake of food that is associated with defects. Bhiksham Deharakshaartham, Vastram Sheetarakshanam (Food is for the purpose of nurturing the body and clothing is for protection from the cold). Food is given to protect the body. However, food that causes diseases in the body is not the right type of food. This is what the Bhagavad Gita preaches as an important dictum – Paatra Shuddhi (purity of the vessel), Paaka Shuddhi (purity of the cooking process, which includes purity of the cook), Padaartha Shuddhi (purity of the materials used).

A Diamond has to be cut a number of times to make it valuable

By the above method (of consuming pure food that is free from defects), the dirt sticking on to the (mirror of the) mind can be removed gradually. Once again the mirror of the mind will become clean and pure. However, this cannot be achieved in one day, in one year or in just one trial.

Vikshepa is the unsteadiness of the mind

The second defect (of the mind) is Vikshepa. The mind is like a mirror. So long as the mirror is wavering, the reflection in it also keeps wavering. Therefore, as the wavering mind keeps oscillating here and there, your reflection in it also keeps wavering. That is why Arjuna told Lord Krishna, “Chanchalam Hi Manah Krishna Pramaadi Balavadrudam”. He prayed to Lord Krishna, “I am unable to live with this wavering mind Krishna. It is highly dangerous and overpowering”.

If one has total faith doubts can never arise

What do we mean by Vikshepa? Vikshepa refers to the phenomenon of constantly moving or wavering. What do we mean by this movement or wavering? The nature of the three Gunas (Satva, Rajas and Tamas) and the impact of the likes and dislikes of man, influence the mind and result in constant doubt in all aspects of life. Man’s entire life is filled with doubts. Whatever we undertake to do, the doubts as to “whether this will happen or not”, “whether I will be able to accomplish or not”, cause the mind to waver constantly. What is the reason for this? Lack of total faith is the cause for this doubt. If one has total faith, such doubts can never arise.

The nine types of devotion are prescribed to steady the mind

What is the method to make this unsteady mind into a steady one? The nine forms of devotion (Navavidha Bhakti) have been prescribed for meditation, prayer and contemplation, so as to gradually steady the wavering mind.

We have right only on our actions Bend the body, Mend the senses, End the mind

We need to make an effort to gradually reduce the wavering nature of the mind. That is concentration. What should we do in order to develop this concentration? We need to bend the body, mend the senses and end the mind. This is the process of attaining immortality. Therefore we need to bend the body, put in effort and perform our actions. Mend the senses – we need to earn the strength to keep the sense on the right track. We need to keep the mind under our control. Only when we keep the body, the senses and the mind under our control, will we be Masters. Else, we will be slaves.

Find out “Who am I?”

Man must develop firm faith. Even if he does not have faith in God, it is fine; let him at least develop faith in himself. Faith in oneself is faith in God. There is no God separate from him. Whether one is an old man, a youth, a young child, a woman, a king, a farmer or a beggar; each one while referring to oneself will say, “I”, “I”. “I am a beggar”, “I am a king”, “I am a woman”, “I am a man”, “I am an old man”, “I am a youth”, “I am a young child”. In all these, we find the common principle of “I”. This principle of “I” is the Atma. Man is using this word “I” from dawn to dusk without understanding its true significance. The word is being used in a futile manner and thus life is getting wasted. We say, “My body”. That means the body exists separate from you, is it not? Then, who are you? Man is not making an effort to enquire into this Truth. Vikshepa means having doubts. This makes man’s life unstable. Unsteadiness can never result in peace. Peace runs away from an unsteady heart (mind). We should therefore put in an effort to develop steadiness (of the mind).      

Aavarana is the desire that has engulfed the mind

The third defect is Aavarana. What is it that has engulfed us? Our desires have engulfed us. Man is bound by his desires. He is engulfed by desires in front of him, behind him, above him and below him. In whatever state man is; in whatever he talks, hears, does or thinks; his desires do not leave him. Man is bound by the rope of desires. Dhana vancha (desire for wealth), Adhikara vancha (desire for power), Aarogya vancha (desire for good health), Keerti vancha (desire for fame and repute), and many more desires engulf him.   

Aavarana is the thick cloth that covers the mirror of the mind

What is Aavarana? If you cover the mirror with a thick cloth, will you be able to see your reflection in it? Certainly not. On account of the Mala, we are seeing our reflection as a dirty one; on account of Vikshepa, we are seeing our reflection as a wavering one. We consider this wavering as our nature. We defend ourselves saying that all this is natural as I have this human body. On account of Aavarana, we think that we have no true form at all. We start considering this body itself as our true form.

Offer all your actions to God Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham

Desires are not wrong. One needs to have desires, but there must be a limit to it. Man is getting bound on account of limitless desires. We have to make an effort to gradually reduce our desires. Perform all your actions, experience all the worldly joy and comforts, but recognize the truth that the results of all your actions are in the hands of God. Whatever actions you do, do it with the feeling that you should please God (Bhagavat Prityaartham). Such a sacrifice alone will enable the blossoming of man’s nature.   

The six vices cover the mind as Aavarana

What is the thick cloth that covers the mirror (of the mind)? It is the cloth of six vices – Kaama (desire), Krodha (anger), Lobha(greed), Moha (attachment), Mada (pride), Maatsarya (jealousy). 

Eight forms of pride cover the mind as Aavarana

Dhana madam (pride of wealth), Vidya madam (pride of scholarship), Kula madam (pride of lineage), Aishwarya madam (pride of prosperity), Saundarya madam (pride of beauty), Yauvana madam (pride of youth), Tapa madam (pride of penance) [the eight one is most likely Pada madam – pride of position or status based on Discourse given on 07-07-1990] – these are the eight forms of pride that are covering the mirror (of the mind). For how long does this wealth last? It will slip away. Just like the water slips away below your feet, so too one can never say when wealth will slip away. How long does youth last? Just like a flash of lightning, youth comes and goes away. What is Vidya madam – pride of scholarship? Are there not people far more scholarly than you in this world? Compared to them, what is your level of scholarship after all? If we enquire in this manner there is no scope for us to feel any pride at all. This is just an illusion or delusion. 

Love is the only way to remove Aavarana

Therefore, to remove the thick cloth (that has covered the mirror of our mind), we need to develop love. This love is primary. It is the manifest form of God. Thus, Love is God, live in Love. With this sacred love, we would be able to conquer anything. Other than the rope of love, there is no other way to unite all the people and enable their progress.

The Eight Fold Path of Yoga

In spiritual saadhana, there are eight Yogic disciplines to be observed: Yama, Niyama, Aasana, Praanaayaama, Prathyaahaara, Dhaarana, Dhyaana, and Samaadhi (sense restraint, observing rules, discipline of the body, breath-control, withdrawal of senses from objects, concentration, meditation and the Super Conscious state). Of these, the first is Yama. The second set of disciplines is covered by the term Niyama. It consists of five practices: Soucham (purity); Tapas (austerity); Santhosham (contentment); Swaadhyaayam (study of scriptures); Easwara Pranidhaanam (offering to the Lord).

Inner and outer Cleanliness – Both are Important

Soucham (cleanliness) is of two kinds–external cleanliness and internal cleanliness. External purity is achieved by the use of water and cleaning agents. But apart from bodily cleanliness, everything that we use in our in daily life must be clean. The clothes that we wear, the bed that we sleep on, the books that we read, the house where we live, all these must be pure and clean. All organs/limbs of the body have to be kept completely pure and clean. That is why early in the morning, as soon as we arise, practices like brushing the teeth, washing the mouth, washing the face are prescribed not only for maintaining perfect health, but also to enjoy a state of bliss. The environment around us should also be kept clean. As regards internal purity, it should be noted that the mind is polluted by bad thoughts and by attachments and aversions. There is no scope for sacred thoughts to manifest in such a polluted mind. Qualities like love, kindness, compassion, forbearance and sympathy have to be developed to purify the polluted mind.

Real Penance is to Purify the Mind with Sacred Feelings

The second value is Tapas. Tapas does not mean merely practising certain postures like keeping the head down and the legs up. Real penance consists in constantly thinking and striving for the realisation of one’s higher aims by maintaining purity in thought, word and deed. Such Taapamu (thirst or striving) becomes Tapas. I must achieve my goal – you must constantly keep thinking of this at all times and in all situations. “Sathatham Yoginah” (Always be established in Yoga), it is said. We must always yearn for the realisation of the Formless and Attributeless Absolute (Atman). That yearning turns into penance in due course. We must experience the unity between what we think, what we say and what we do. This is the contemplation of God with purity and unity of thought, word and deed. With this type of Tapas (penance) it is possible to attain the Paratatva(Transcendental principle) which is attributeless and formless. Merely leaving the hometown, going to the forest, wearing leaves and thus wasting one’s life in futility does not constitute penance. To free ourselves from evil thoughts is true penance. Penance is not giving up property and home and going to the forest. To get rid of evil thoughts and passions is Yoga or penance. To purify the mind with sacred feelings is real penance.

Contentment gives Real Happiness or Santhosham

Next value is Santhosham. When can we get Santhosham (happiness)? Man can experience joy and happiness only when he has contentment. As desires grow, discontent grows and worries multiply. We must learn to be content with what we have. We must enjoy with whatever we have. We must never entertain excessive desires. Therefore, we will experience happiness only when we remain contended. He who has got much satisfaction is the richest man. Thus, we must always remain contended, that is what will give us happiness.

Swaadhyaayam means we must always keep reading some sacred texts.

The fourth value is Swaadhyaayam. This does not mean merely study of the Vedas. All the basic triple scriptures (Prasthaan Trayee) – the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the Brahma Sutras shouldbe studied. One must be acquainted with all sacred literature. Swaadhyaayam means we must always keep reading some sacred texts. Thereby one gets rid of impurities in the mind.

Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham

The fifth value is Easwara Pranidhaanam. Whatever actions that we undertake should be pleasing to the Lord. In whatever action we perform, the question must be asked, “Will this please the Lord or not?”, “Will God be satisfied by this act or not?” We must undertake this kind of enquiry in every action of ours and we must perform only such actions that will please the Lord. God means in effect your conscience. You should not do anything which does not give you Atma-trupti (self-satisfaction). Your own conscience will punish you if you go against it. Your own mind will cause pain to you if you perform actions that do not give self-satisfaction. Therefore, we must nurture good feelings and undertake only such actions that yield self-satisfaction. In the Vedantic parlance, this is called, ‘Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham”. Only when you undertake actions that are pleasing to the Lord, good things will be bestowed on you.

Students must enter into all domains of life and make a positive impact therein.

Only when one observes Yama and Niyama, it would amount to achieving the four Purushaarthaas (goals) of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha). It would also amount to the practice of Samaand Dama. We are not able to see the practice of these human values as prescribed in Yama and Niyama, in the students of these days. That is why the hearts of students is polluted today. Students must have a sacred heart. They should shape themselves into future responsible citizens. The good or bad of the nation rests on the shoulders of these students. Students must enter into all domains of life – worldly, ethical, moral, spiritual and scientific; and make a positive impact therein. 

Sage Patanjali – Author of Ashtanga Yoga

In spiritual saadhana, there are eight Yogic disciplines to be observed: Yama, Niyama, Aasana, Praanaayaama, Prathyaahaara, Dhaarana, Dhyaana, and Samaadhi (sense restraint, observing rules, discipline of the body, breath-control, withdrawal of senses from objects, concentration, meditation and the Super Conscious state). Of these, the first is Yama. It is enough if this single discipline is understood and observed. All human values are comprised in it. Humanness is embedded in it. Yama includes the Pancha Praanaas (five-breaths), Pancha Bhuthaas (five elements), Pancha Koshaas (five sheaths), Pancha Thathvaas (five basic principles), and Pancha Rupaas (five forms). The five forms are the form of Gaayathri. The five basic principles are: Ahimsa, Sathyam, Aastheyam, Brahmacharyam and Aparigraha (Non-violence, Truth, Non-covetousness, Celibacy, and Non-possessiveness). These five constitute Yama.

Ashtanga Yoga

What are the human values? Only when the inner significance of Yama and Niyama is properly understood, humanity will find fulfilment. Yama includes the following practices: Ahimsa (Non-violence); Sathyam (Truth); Aastheyam (Non-stealing); Brahmacharyam (Continence/Celibacy) and Aparigraha (not receiving anything from others).

Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah

The first value is Ahimsa. Buddha attached great importance to Ahimsa. He considered it the foremost Dharma (duty). “Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah” declared Buddha. What does Ahimsa signify? It is not merely refraining from causing harm or injury or pain to others. Just by not hurting others, one cannot be called non-violent. Non-violence, apart from not causing harm to others, also implies refraining from causing harm to oneself. One who harms oneself cannot avoid harming others. Whoever desires to observe Ahimsa must first see to it that she/he does not commit violence unto herself/himself. How is this to be ensured? By constantly examining whether one’s conduct is right or wrong. For instance, in the matter of speech, one must examine whether one’s words are causing pain to others or not. One must ensure that one’s looks are not tainted by evil intentions or thoughts. One should not listen to evil talk. All these cause harm to the individual. Hence, one should give no room for bad looks, bad hearing, bad speech, bad thoughts and bad actions.

Abhor Violence in Thought, Word and Deed

Ahimsa does not mean, as is commonly understood, not causing harm to others. How can we not cause harm to others? What is the true meaning of Ahimsa? It really means that one should not cause harm to anyone in thought, word or deed. Therefore, not harming anyone with the purity of thought, word and deed is non-violence. This is the most important human value. Only when this has been developed, will one be qualified to practise and experience the second value of Truth.

Dedicate all your actions to the Divine This will save you from the consequences of  involuntary violence

You should be careful not only with regard to how you relate to the five elements, but also with regard to your food. Excessive eating amounts to violence to the body. Moderation in food is conducive to happiness. Thus, Ahimsa (non-violence) is what confers happiness on you. That which hurts you is Himsa (violence). Not just this. Even in drinking water, you should observe restraints. Likewise, one’s entire life should be governed by the principle of non-violence. Many germs die when one takes a bath or walks or does any other action. Even in the process of breathing many germs die. Violence is present in all these activities. Therefore, to avoid the consequences of such involuntary violence to living creatures, one is advised to dedicate all actions to the Divine. But, there is no meaning in dedicating to the Divine, conscious acts of violence. The conscience will not approve of such conduct. In Vedantic parlance, the conscience is called Chith. It is also called Awareness. Awareness is total understanding. This total understanding is within the capacity of every human being. Everyone must strive to acquire this awareness. Thus, Ahimsa is the primary duty of man.

Adhere to Truth in Thought, Word and Deed

Truth does not mean merely speaking honestly with the tongue. Truth remains unchanging in all the three times. Truth must be adhered to with the purity of thought, word and deed. One must not take recourse to falsehood either through the mind, or words or actions. Therefore, speaking the truth with the unity of thought, word and deed is Sathyam. This is the second human value.

Speak the Truth that is Pleasant and Soothing

The second value is Sathyam. Truth does not merely mean speaking factually about what is seen or heard or done. Truth transcends all the three times. Anudvega Karam Vaakyam, Satyam Preeti Hitam Chayat. The truth which is spoken must be pleasant and soothing. It must not agitate the one who hears it. Truth must not be spoken in a way that it hurts others. At the same time, just because it is pleasant for others to hear, one must not speak the untruth. That which is spoken with humility, with unity of mind-tongue-body and in a way that appeals to others is Truth. Students must necessarily follow this path of Truth. Human being’s life is based on Truth. It is sacred, Divine and most precious. It is a life worthy of living. However, treading along the path of untruth, for the purpose of selfishness and self-interest, we are wasting our life in futility.

Sathyam, Jnaanam, Anantham Brahma

The second value is Sathyam (Truth). What is Truth? Truth is not merely telling the facts about what you see or hear or do. These are temporal truths. In its full sense, Truth relates to what comes out of your heart in the form of the voice of conscience. This Sathyam (Truth) is also called Ritham. It is true for all time: past, present and the future. It is not affected by changes in time, place or circumstances. It is unchanging and cannot be suppressed. Truth is its own proof. It is the form of the Divine as declared in: Sathyam, Jnaanam, Anantham Brahma (Truth, Wisdom and Infinite is Brahman – the Absolute Self). Truth is thus the second human value.

Refrain from Stealing in Thought, Word and Deed

Astheyam means refraining from stealing what belongs to others. Not just refraining from stealing with the hand, but even the thought of taking another’s property should not arise in the mind. Nor should one encourage others to commit theft. Therefore, Aastheyammeans refraining from stealing others’ property with purity of thought, word and deed. This is the third human value.

You may use others’ property, but only with their permission

The third value is Astheyam (non-stealing). What is Astheyam? Astheyam means not stealing the properties of others. Property should not be confined to physical objects like a book or a pen. When you need anything, there is nothing wrong in your taking it with the permission of the owner. To take or use any object without such permission amounts to stealing. Even to criticize someone in a way that harms her/him amounts to theft (of her/his good name). What is the meaning of theft? To take hold of an item that does not belong to you. Every object has an owner. We may make use of that object only after seeking permission from the owner.

Brahmacharyam means living in Brahman

The next value is Brahmacharyam. Brahmacharyam is interpreted in many ways by the people of the world. One meaning is remaining unmarried. This is not the correct meaning. This meaning is only from the worldly point of view. The true literal meaning of the term is “Moving in Brahman.” Brahmacharya means ceaseless contemplation of God. Charya means moving or treading. Brahmacharya means “moving in Brahman”, or “treading along the path of Brahman”. Brahmacharya should not be imagined to be related to the physical losses, difficulties, sorrow or worry. Mere bachelorhood is not Brahmacharyam. Such a person may be called as just “unmarried”.

Brahmacharyam is like the Foundation for the other stages of life

It may be impossible to observe Brahmacharyam in the way that it is normally understood by the world. We should not allow the mind to get into wrong thoughts, wrong words or wrong actions. True Brahmacharyam means living constantly in Brahma (the contemplation of the Absolute). Brahmavid Brahmaiva Bhavati. In practical life, this means dedicating all thoughts, all speech and all actions to the Divine. Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham. Considering oneself as Brahma and performing everything as an offering to Brahma is true Brahmacharyam. Continous study of the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Brahmasutraas and other scriptures also constitutes Brahmacharyam. Brahmacharyam is the foundation for the other stages in life: Grihastha (householder), Vaanaprastha (recluse) and Sanyaasa (renunciant). If the foundation of Brahmacharyam is not strong and firm, the other stages of Grihastha (householder), Vaanaprastha (recluse) and Sanyaasa (renunciant) will get shaky and may even fall. Therefore, for the mansion of life, Brahmacharyam is very important. It must be pure, unwavering, unselfish and egoless.

Atma-Aham-Thought-Word-Deed

The fourth value is Brahmacharyam. Many interpretations are given to this value from the worldly point of view. These are not correct. Observance of Brahmacharyam means: whatever one thinks, says or does should be filled with thoughts of Brahman, the Supreme Divinity. To be ever immersed in the consciousness of Brahman is Brahmacharyam. All thoughts, words and deeds should be dedicated to the Divine. This is called “Sarva Karma Bhagavat Prityaartham”.

Perform all actions without any expectation of reward

The fifth practice is Aparigraha. This is usually interpreted as not accepting other’s property as gift or in charity. This is not the correct meaning. It really means performing actions without expecting any reward; without any acquisitive motives. We must perform all actions without any ego, attachment, self-interest or selfish motive. Only then can we claim to have practised Aparigraha. Today because actions are done out of self-interest and selfishness, out of ego and attachment, they lack true human quality. If we wish to foster human values then we must perform all our actions with purity and unity of thought, word and deed. We must undertake all work without any expectations of the fruits thereof. Even worship, religious ceremonies, pilgrimages and the like are done with some kind of expectations and not in a spirit of disinterested devotion or worship or sadhana. This cannot be called true human value.

Receive benefits only from Parents, Guru or God

The fifth value is Aparigraha. The Upanishads have regarded Parigraha (acquiring things from others) as sinful. Whatever help we may render to others, we should do it without expectation of any return. It is natural for human beings to reap the fruits of their actions. However, the scriptures advise exercise of caution in this regard. One is entitled to receive benefits only from one’s father, mother, Guru and God, but not from others. As God is the creator, sustainer and protector, you have the right to claim anything from God. From your parents you can receive what they are in a position to give, according to their capacity. But you should not trouble them by seeking more than that from them. From the preceptor you must receive only knowledge. From the preceptor, who teaches you what promotes your well-being, you have to seek ways of satisfying him and not any other benefits.

Never accept dowry during marriage. It is a sin.

The fifth discipline is Aparigraha. This means not accepting things from others. You have every right to receive gifts or other things from your parents. You are the very reflection of your parents and hence you can accept from them whatever they give. Aparigraha has certain subtle implications. For instance, it is not proper to accept gifts from one’s in-laws or even from one’s brothers. When any gifts are received from these relatives you have to make good by giving them back some equivalent presents. Today the Aparigraha aspect is being blatantly violated.

Students – Enter all domains of life and make a positive impact

Only when one observes Yama and Niyama, it would amount to achieving the four Purushaarthaas (goals) of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha). It would also amount to the practice of Samaand Dama. We are not able to see the practice of these human values as prescribed in Yama and Niyama, in the students of these days. That is why the hearts of students is polluted today. Students must have a sacred heart. They should shape themselves into future responsible citizens. The good or bad of the nation rests on the shoulders of these students. Students must enter into all domains of life – worldly, ethical, moral, spiritual and scientific; and make a positive impact therein. 

Give up Meat eating, Drinking and Smoking

Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love are the human values. The one who nurtures these values is a true human being. Food plays a very significant role in nurturing these human values. Embodiments of Love! Do not take what I am saying in a wrong way. On this sacred day of Vijaya Dasami, take an oath to give up vices such as smoking, drinking, and partaking of non-vegetarian food. Give up these three habits and you will develop a sacred heart.

A True Devotee of God must give up eating Meat

How do we get rid of bad feelings, selfishness and self-interest, pomp and ego? These qualities arise on account of food and habits. Today, be it anyone, but those who consider themselves as devotees of God, must give up eating non-vegetarian food. Why? Because consumption of the meat of animals, nurtures animal qualities in man. In Hindi language it is said, “Jaise Anna, Vaise Man” meaning “As is the food, so is the mind”. As is the food, so is the belching. If you eat a mango, can you get the belching with the taste of a cucumber? No, you will get belching with the taste of a mango only. When you partake of the meat of cruel animals, the quality of cruelty develops in you too. Not only this. What a great sin it is to consume life that is made up of five elements and which we see manifest with the senses of sound, feeling, form, taste and smell? Apart from developing demonic qualities, what a great sin it is to kill another being that is made up of the same five elements that the human body is made up of. Committing such a sin gives rise to worry. Therefore true devotees and those who aspire to be true devotees, must give up eating non-vegetarian food. People say they are Sai devotees, Rama devotees, Krishna devotees; but they sit and eat chicken! How can such people be true devotees? They are actually demons. They will never be the recipients of God’s Grace. Therefore, be it Indians or people from overseas; those who wish to follow Bhagawan’s command must give up meat eating immediately.

Non-vegetarians are prone to many more diseases than vegetarians

The name of this world is “Jagath”. “Ja” means “Coming” and “Gath” means “Going”. The very name of this world – “Jagath” means “Coming and Going”. Once we know this truth, why should we worry? We must not give any scope for such worry. Only then, will human beings gain the deservedness to realize the Divinity in them. Except for human beings no other beings have this unique opportunity of realizing Divinity. For this, food and habits play a very important role. Among 84 lakhs of spices that exist in this creation, 83,99,999 species enjoy food that is provided by Nature. All birds and animals live on natural foods and are therefore not prone to many diseases. But human beings alone, swayed by the taste of the tongue, carried away by various tastes, transform the natural food into various forms based on their imaginations. They cook the food and make it into Kurmas (a dish originating in South Asia or Central Asia; it is usually considered a type of curry). But they do not realize how this reduces their life span. Even among human beings, those who consume vegetables are less prone to diseases. But those who consume meat are prone to more diseases. Why? Because, vegetarian food alone provides the right type of balance that is needed by human beings. This is a human body and that is an animal body. The two do not gel well each other.

Inspire your parents also to give up non-vegetarian food

A small example: In a house, once every week, they used to prepare mutton. When our students go home, parents say, “Oh my dear son, you have been in Puttaparthi for one long year, you have not eaten any chicken, sheep or fish”. Saying so, they prepare all the dishes and serve the children with love. However, the son should say, “Mother, I will not do this bad act. Why should I kill one being to keep this being alive? This is not good for me. You are going just by the body. You are offering flesh to this body which is made up of the very same flesh. We must offer nectar to this body made up of flesh. We must partake of sacred food. We must partake of food given to us by God. We should not eat non-vegetarian food that enhances our bad qualities and bad actions. When once the children keep telling like this again and again, parents too will get transformed. I know of many such cases. After the children have come to our college, through them, their parents too have given up non-vegetarian food.

A True Devotee of God must give up drinking Alcohol/Liquor

The second aspect; we drink water. There is life in water. It contains life force in it. Water is a sacred aspect of God. Water originates from God; from the hair locks of Lord Shiva (as the Ganges). Giving up such sacred water and taking to drinking liquor / alcohol is a big mistake. Alcoholism is very cruel. It makes you forget yourself. It makes you lose your respect, lose your human qualities and makes you forget God. A drunken man does not even know what he is doing, talking or listening. He keeps on rambling. How shameful it is to see people in this state. One tends to laugh to see how such people, though being born as human beings, behave like beings without life. This is not good. Drinking (liquor/alcohol) also leads to destruction of many families. All the money that one earns is spent on this evil habit and the man is not able to take care of his own wife and children. With all the wealth, what is the use if one cannot foster one’s own parents, wife and children? The root cause of these evils is alcoholism.     

Non-vegetarians and Alcohol addicts are more prone to Heart Ailments

It is the primary responsibility of human beings to prevent themselves from becoming a victim of any disease. When one’s food and habits is well regulated, there would be no scope for any disease at all. It is said that proteins and vitamins are very essential for human beings. Non-vegetarian food and addiction to alcohol are the root causes for heart ailments and other major diseases. Research has revealed that people who consume vegetarian food are far less prone to heart ailments than those who consume non-vegetarian food and alcohol. Even the vegetarian food that is consumed should be balanced and wholesome. It should contain liberal doses of Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are available amply in green leaves and carrots. The presence of these vitamins prevents heart ailments in a large measure. Therefore one should ensure the intake of these vitamins in good quantity.

A True Devotee of God must give up the habit of Smoking

Along with drinking (alcohol), some also smoke cigarettes. Because of smoking, humans are subject to many diseases. Asthma, Eosinophilia and Cardiac ailments arise on account of smoking. If an individual smokes even once, she/he is prone to get cancer. The impact of smoking can be actually demonstrated. Take a white cloth and after having taken a deep puff, blow air onto the white cloth. You will find dark spots appearing on the cloth. If it can make such an impact on the cloth itself, you can imagine what impact it can make when it gets into the human blood stream. It ruins one’s health and shortens one’s life-span. Therefore, those who aspire to become true devotees of God have to give up meat, liquor and smoking. No government can stop these habits. The feelings have to transform individuals from within. It is only mental transformation that can bring about a change. Each one must recognize the truth and conduct oneself accordingly.

I am always Happy!! If you wish to offer me a Gift on My Birthday, give up Eating Non-vegetarian food, Drinking Alcohol and Smoking

Embodiments of Love! You are deeming this day as the 69^th Birthday of Swami. I have no desire to celebrate such birthdays. As I was coming (for Darshan), I was greeted by many wishing Me “Happy Birthday”. I am always happy. Why should anyone wish “Happy Birthday” to Me? Be happy yourselves. Your happiness is My happiness.

Paatra Shuddhi, Paaka Shuddhi and Padaartha Shuddhi

Our students know this very well. Before eating food, we offer the food to God – Brahmaarpanam Brahmahavir. Why should we offer the food to God? There are three types of defects that are associated with the food items: Paatra Shuddhi (purity of the vessel in which the food is cooked), Paaka Shuddhi (purity of the process of cooking) and Padhaartha Shuddhi(purity of the materials used for cooking). When all these three are pure, the mind will also be pure. When these three are not pure, impure feelings will arise in us. So first is Paatra Shuddhi– to some extent we may be able to take care of this aspect; but Padhaartha Shuddhi – purity of the materials; how do we take care of this? What you may have bought from which shop? How would the shopkeeper himself have bought these materials? From whom would he have bought the vegetables? It is not possible to look into all these details. Thus it is not always possible to ensure the purity of the materials used for cooking. Next is Paaka Shuddhi– how do we know what feelings the cook may entertain while cooking the food? If he cooks the food with bad feelings, these bad feelings will get into the cooked food too.

The disturbed Sanyasi and the impact of food

Embodiments of Love! Even if it may take some more time, have your food only after praying and offering it to God. Only then the food will become sanctified and will illumine your intellect. Once upon a time there was a hermitage near Sivananda’s Ashram in Hrishikesh. There lived a number of celibates over there and free Chapatis (food) were distributed to all. The residents of the hermitage also partook of the same food. In that hermitage, there lived a sacred and noble Sanyasi (recluse). One day a businessman donated money to prepare food for the ashramites on the eleventh day after the demise of his young wife. However, this food turned out to be poisonous. What was the poison? How did the young girl (wife of the businessman) die? The businessman was aged. However, being rich, he somehow had enticed the girl’s father with money and married his young daughter. The young girl spent her time languishing that her father had destroyed her life in this manner. Disgusted by leading such a life, one day she jumped into the Ganges and ended her life. The businessman was performing the obituary rites on the eleventh day. He distributed the food so prepared, to all close by ashrams.

God is always within us in the form of Vaishvaanarah

You are aware that everyday you chant the following prayer before partaking your food:

Inspire parents also to chant the mantra before eating food

When you pray, “Brahmaarpanam, Brahmahavir…” before eating your food, parents too will watch you and think, ‘Wow! See how much devotion he has”. Then you must tell your parents, ‘Mother, the food that is gifted to us by God, must be offered to God first and then we must consume the same. Once we offer the food to God, it no longer remains as food. It gets transformed into Prasaadam. There will no defects in the Prasaadam. Once you tell your parents like this, they too will get the desire and will start chanting the prayer. This, if we wish to bring about a change in the parents, we can do so through their very children.

It is not desirable to watch TV while eating food

Some foolish students consider this practice of chanting the prayer before consuming food in the Hostel, as a forced discipline. Such students chant the prayer so long as they are in the Hostel. Once they go home, they do not chant any prayer. They eat food with useless thoughts and lead a meaningless life. And do you know how the process of dining takes place these days?

We must eat food with a serene and peaceful mind

While eating our food everyday, we should not indulge in discussion of topics which will cause agitation, sorrow, or anger. It is essential to partake our food with a serene and peaceful mind, with sacred feelings, and with Divine thoughts. Mental tension is responsible for ill health. These days, in the modern age, we engage in some perverted acts while eating. We tend to watch TV, video, etc., while eating food. This leads to impurity in the mind. We must make every effort to prevent our minds from becoming impure.

We must ensure that no negative vibes get into us while eating food

Even while eating food, the T.V. is kept in front, in the Dining Hall. People watch T.V. even while partaking their food. The result is that, not just the food, but even all the foul things seen on the T.V. are being consumed by the viewer. Full concentration is only on the T.V. This concentration in viewing T.V. (Drushti) affects one’s view of the world (Srushti). The scenes, thoughts and actions displayed on the T.V. give rise to similar thoughts and feelings and actions in the viewer. Unknowingly, agitations and ill feelings enter the minds. One starts wondering as to why such thoughts and feelings that were never there in her/him before, have started appearing now. All these thoughts and feelings arise because of the seed sown while watching television. In due course the seeds take root and sprout in the minds.

Talk less, Eat less

Students should get into the world, and transform all the restlessness that is troubling the people, into peace. Develop restraint in your talk. We do not need excessive talk. Ati Bhaashaa Mati Hani, Mita Bhaashaa Ati Hayi – Excessive talk will make you mad (lose your mind); Restraint in talk will lead to happiness and welfare. Similarly, Ati Tindi Mati Hani, Mita Tindi Ati Hayi – Eating too much will make you mad (lose your mind); Restraint in food will lead to happiness and welfare. If you simply keep on eating till you get a full throated belching, then what work can you do? You must stop eating when you still have the feeling that you can eat some more. If you eat excessively, you can neither do any work, nor can you achieve success. Thus talk within limits, eat within limits. Work more and experience more joy. You may undertake any activity, but never forget the name of God!    

Observe moderation in eating habits

Embodiments of Divine Atma! It is essential to observe the principle of moderation in food habits, daily conduct, work and sleep. The Buddha preached the same principle of moderation to his disciples. “Be always moderate, never indulge in excess,” proclaimed the Buddha. In fact, moderation is the royal road to happiness. Excesses in any field of activity will lead to lack of peace. Today, man does not exercise any moderation in his eating habits. On account of eating whatever and wherever he gets anything, he loses his good health. Man spends his entire time in filling his stomach only. On account of this, not only does man lose his health but his digestive system also gets damaged. Food is very necessary for good health. The food consumed by man should be proper, pure and wholesome.

1500 to 2000 calories of food per day is adequate to keep you healthy

It is atrocious that men today are experiencing ignorance that is making them behave in a manner that is against human nature. Their mind is becoming worse than those of wild animals in the forest. They have become cruel, pitiless, hard-hearted and are hurting others. There is no interpersonal relationship and understanding between man and man. The main reason for this condition is the kind of food that is consumed. Students! Be careful about the food you eat. Enquire as to what type of food will give you health and happiness. The ancients used to eat twice a day.  The Rishis and sages used to eat only once a day. They declared that the man who eats only once is a Yogi (God-centred person), the one who eats twice a day is a Bhogi (enjoyer) and the one that eats thrice a day is a Rogi (a sick man). Today, not just thrice; people go on consuming food at all times, not to mention drinks, coffee and snacks in between. Thus when the inert body with an impaired digestive system is overfed with all such varieties of food, what else can one expect other than the onset of indigestion?

As is the food, so is the mind

Today man is becoming a victim of limitless desires. The food that man eats has also got to be Satvic in nature. Apart from intoxicants like non-vegetarian food, alcohol and cigarettes; living on ill-gotten money also causes ill-health to some extent. Living on earnings got by unjust means causes many unknown diseases to take root in us. It is said in Hindi “Jaise Anna Vaise Man” (as is the food, so is the mind).

Exercise caution while consuming cheese, curd and milk

You must have your food at the right time. With regard to food, you have to know certain subtle things and observe some restrictions. You should not consume non-vegetarian food like meat and fish. In fact, foreigners are used to non-vegetarian food only. This type of food causes diseases like cancer. Hence, give up such food, totally. Not only that. They also like cheese very much. The more you consume cheese, the weaker you become. You should also not take milk in excess quantity. Too much milk is very bad. It should be in limit. The milk should be diluted with water in equal proportion. Same is the case with curd. We consider thick curd as very good. No, it should not be thick. It should be semi-solid. Thus, you have to control the food you eat daily. Proper control of food is very much necessary for contemplating on God. If you take proper food and observe discipline in your habits, you are sure to have God’s Darshan (Vision) at that very moment. You need not undertake rigorous sadhana for months and years. You can always be blissful.

“My weight is always constant at 108 pounds”

How to lead a healthy life? Here is an example, whether you believe it or not. I am a witness to it. Since the last 54 years; now I am 68 years old; therefore from the age of 14 years; My weight has been constant at 108 pounds only. It never went up to 109 pounds nor came down to 107 pounds. You can lead a healthy life once you achieve this kind of balance and moderation. But doctors would not believe this. They say that if you do not eat well, the bones would get damaged. But that is not the case with Me. Why? My discipline is very strict. I never eat even a little bit excess. I observe the principle of moderation whether I am invited for food by a millionaire or a pauper. Even though I am sixty eight years, My body is in perfect trim! I do not suffer from aches and My heart is as sound as a rock. There is none who can work like Me and exert himself as much as I do! The secret of My sound health is My regulated food habits. This is how one has to achieve the unity and harmony of food, head and God. Today we are making many mistakes with respect to our food. If we modify our food habits, we can enjoy very good health.

Purity of the food that we consume

Saankhya philosophy (one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy and classical Indian philosophy) stresses emphatically on the need for purity in food. Food is verily the undercurrent of the five life principles (Pancha Praanaas). The (physical) body is the very form of food. This food eats food again. Enquire clearly – the body which is the form of food once again consumes food. Our body is the essence of the food consumed by our parents. This body which is verily the form of food, partakes of the very same food. Thus food eats food. That is why Saankhya gives primary importance to the aspect of food. The sacred texts do not enable people to enquire into these subtle points. Profound meaning is embedded in very subtle and small aspects. If we neglect aspects that appear small, they will take the form of gigantic waves. We find very small termites attacking the wood. In no time, they completely destroy the wood. Thus, we must never ignore the finer details. We must nurture noble thoughts and noble feelings.  

The type of food that you eat, decides the nature of your mind

When people who have hatred, jealousy, desire, and other such wicked feelings in their heart, eat their food, the wicked tendencies present in their digestive system will affect their mind. When these wicked tendencies reach the mind, bad thoughts emerge there from. When one does not observe discipline in food habits, all such problems arise on account of food and water. Where does the mind originate? The mind originates from food. Food decides the nature of your mind. That is why our ancestors recommended the partaking of Sathvic food.

Offer food to the five life principles before consuming

We must have good feelings when we partake of our food and drink. Based on ancient traditions, before eating food, people would make an offering – Praanaaya Svaaha, Apaanaaya Svaaha, Vyaanaaya Svaaha, Udaanaaya Svaaha. They used to make such an offering to God and then consume the water. Offering the food to the five principles, partaking of it as Prasaadam, would eliminate all defects from the food. Thus Saankhya emphasizes that the food should be first offered to the five life principles – Praanaa, Apaanaa, Vyaanaa, Udaanaa and Samaanaa.    

Food is God – Annam Brahma

While eating our food, we must utter the words, “Annam Brahma” (food is God); Raso Vishnuhu (the essence of food is Vishnu). Food is God. It gets into the body and provides its essence to all the parts of the body. It indeed gets transformed into blood and energy. Bhoktodevo Maheswarah (the one who consumes the food is Maheswarah). This principle teaches wisdom to the whole world. Annam Brahma, Raso Vishnuhu, Bhoktodevo Maheswarah – these three are like three attributes.   

05-Partake sacred food to attain purity of heart-2.33-2002 November 23

Partake sacred food to attain purity of heart

Embodiments of Love! What you need to focus on today is that you must strive to attain purity of heart (Chitta Shuddhi). Let this be your foremost endeavour. With purity of heart, you can achieve anything. In order to attain purity of heart, there must be unity between the food we partake, the feelings we entertain while eating, and the happiness we experience thereof.

From the time T.V. made its appearance, the mind of humans have been polluted

Youth, men and women should understand this point clearly. Who is responsible for the bad feelings that arise in us? Who is responsible for the bad thoughts, the bad actions? Enquire well by going deep into the matter. The root cause for all these is the food. As is the food, so is the mind. The mind attracts the objects of the external world. If you wish to have a good example for this, you will find it as the very undercurrent in the daily experience of all men and women.

Videos and T.V. are ruining the life of youth

Today’s education is transforming the children into devils. There is no humility or obedience in this system of education. They learn the books by rote, go to the examination hall and write the paper, and return home with an empty head! Is this education? No. The education that you receive should be imprinted on your heart. It should never be forgotten even after many years. Today’s students do not have such sacred feelings. Everybody pretends to be a devotee. Why this acting?

Television T.V. has become a disease like T.B. Tuberculosis

Students, you all know. Everything is a like picture. So long as you are here, you are very comfortable, safe and you live a peaceful life. But once you go home, you gather all the gadgets like Cinemas, T.V., Videos, etc. They pollute your heart. Human life is ruined by Videos and T.V. The advertisers put up their advertisements on the T.V. for their profits and not for your benefit. If the shows are educative, you can surely watch them. If they are noble and related to moral values, you can definitely see them; nothing wrong.

Do not watch T.V. while eating food

Because of the effect of the Kali age, we have all these gadgets like the T.V. and the Video. When the students go home, they have their food also in front of the Video. They watch the video while eating their food. As is the food, so is the Head. As you keep watching all the scenes, those thoughts enter your food. Therefore, as is the food, so is the Head and as is the Head, so is your God. You may watch good programmes on the T.V., nothing wrong. But, why should you not read sacred books that show you the path to Divinity? You get a headache when you are asked to read sacred books. But while reading mad and foolish novels, you do not even notice the passing of time. This is indeed the impact of the Kali age on the students.     

Pregnant women must be cautious of what they feel, see and hear

It is highly important for women also to study sacred books and nurture sacred scenes. When the women are pregnant, they watch 3 to 4 movies in a go. That is why they give birth to only “cinema children”! (Women must avoid seeing sensuous films and TV shows, especially during pregnancy. The child in the womb is likely to be influenced, by the kind of things they read or see). What is the reason? You must note one very significant example in our sacred Bhaaratheeya epics.

The foetus in the womb is affected by external  sights and sounds

What do we find today? Pregnant women are engaged in seeing Television, Cinemas and other deleterious media which portray heinous and vulgar scenes. The result is that the children who are born develop such undesirable tendencies in them. When Arjuna was narrating insights regarding the Padmavyuha to Subhadra, Krishna entered the scene, intervened and said, “Brother-in-law, do you think it is Subhadra alone listening to you? No. No. The foetus in the womb is also listening to all that you are saying”. Krishna revealed this truth to Arjuna.

Anthony DeCasper conducted scientific investigations to study the impact of external influences on the foetus in the womb

There were critical scientists in earlier years, who ridiculed Krishna and regarded what he said (about the impact of external influences on the foetus in the womb) as meaningless and baseless. But today, scientists in the West who ridiculed and sneered at these matters are now realising that what was said in the Mahabharata is true. The Research Institute of Child Health and Human Development, attached to the Carolina University in America, has been conducting experiments on the factors influencing development of children. An eminent professor (scientist) in this Institute, performed a number of investigations for several years, to verify whether what Krishna had said was true or not. This professor was Anthony Casper (Anthony James DeCasper).

Ramayanam = Rama + Ayanam – The Path of Lord Rama

The sacred Ramayana story illustrates the greatness and sacredness of Bharateeya culture. This epic is called the Ramayana. The Ramayana is not merely a story of Rama. Rama + Ayanam is Ramayanam. “Ayanam” means “The Path”. The inner meaning of Ramayana is that the path shown by Rama should be followed.

Install Rama’s Message in our Heart

The life stories of Rama and Krishna are indeed treatises on righteousness. They are sacred scriptures. They teach mankind how to sublimate human life. The need of the hour today is for a man to live like a true human being. Without humanity, a man cannot be truly called a man. The message is clear: adhering to Truth, practising Righteousness, spreading Love everywhere, remaining ever peaceful, life should be sanctified. This day should not be celebrated merely as the anniversary of Rama’s birth or His advent. The day we manifest in our hearts the Rama Bhaava(Feeling of Rama), that day is the real birthday of Rama. Celebrating of holy days should not mean just having a good feast on those days. We should seek to make the teachings of the Avatars concerned, a part of our lives. We must obey their command. We should follow the path laid down by them. Only then, the story or the epic has any meaning. Our lives also get sanctified. All studies of the Vedas and Shastras, recitations, and listening to discourses are of no value, if practice does not follow precept.

Everybody has the Divine Power of Attraction Within

God does not exist separately in this world. The entire world is the very form of God. However getting deluded by their attachment to the physical body that is merely an instrument; humans are considering themselves to be merely men and are forgetting their Divinity. We consider Rama and Krishna to be Avataars. No, all are mere human beings only. We are all verily, forms of the Divine. We must recognize this feeling today and must develop faith in it. We must give up the feeling that God exists separately from us. We have to develop the faith that God is not different from us. On the occasion of Ramanavami, people hail the advent of Rama and recall his various achievements of establishing Dharma on earth. No, no. Everyone should remember that he is himself an image of Rama. The meaning of Rama is “Ramayathi Ithi Ramah” (One who attracts others is Rama). In every person there is this power of attraction. Rame Raame Manorame (Rama is the power of attraction in the mind). Every man has got this power of attraction or the magnetic power. Because of this magnetic power man is able to experience this world. He develops many worldly desires and fulfils them. But he is never satisfied. He derives satisfaction from discontent. That is a sign of the divine power of attraction. There is no limit to this power. Everyone can experience and manifest this Divinity within him.

Ramayana is verily the Vedas come down to Earth

The sacred epic Ramayana is verily the Vedas descended from heaven to earth. The Vedas are classified into four: RigVeda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, and Atharvana Veda. The RigVeda helps, sustains and protects the Yajnas and Yagas. In the epic of Ramayana, Rama symbolises the Rig Veda. Lakshmana signifies YajurVeda, which contains mantras that are nurtured, protected and chanted during the performance of Yajnas and Yagas. When Rama was away in the forest, Bharata left Ayodhya and stayed in Nandigrama; singing His Divine Name day in and day out. Hence, he symbolises Sama Veda. To secure the Rig, Yajur and Sama Vedas, being obedient to his brothers, Shatrughna joyfully played the role of protecting them. He stands for the AtharvanaVeda. The essence of Atharvana Veda lies in destroying the wrong, wicked, bad actions and evil company; and in fostering sacred acts, good conduct and good virtues. Shatrughna was born to destroy the enemies and protect the friends and the pious people. The Ramayana is verily the Veda. The Veda is not different from the Ramayana. True humanness lies in understanding this.

Lakshmana the ideal Brother

Every notable character in Ramayana stands out as an ideal for the world. All of them are embodiments of Dharma and sacred masters. Consider the example of Lakshmana. Valmiki has described Lakshmana in many ways. He has called him “Rama’s other self”. In the Kamba Ramayana, Lakshmana is described as the “second virtue of Rama”. Tulasidas characterises Lakshmana as “Rama’s right hand”. Rama and Lakshmana were associated inseparably as “Bimba and Pratimba” i.e. one was just the reflection of the other. In his great quality, his immaculate purity and spirit of sacrifice, Lakshmana is his own example.

Seizing the opportunity, Sita immediately garlanded Rama!

First the eldest son (of Dasaratha) must be married. Sita the daughter of king Janaka was born from the mother earth. As a baby, she was, discovered while ploughing the land. Urmilla was the eldest daughter of king Janaka. Both the daughters, Sita and Urmilla were presented as brides for Rama and Lakshmana respectively. On the following day, Bharatha and Shatrughna also came there. Looking at all four of them, Dasaratha was feeling very happy within and considered himself to be very lucky. Mandavi and Shrutakeerti were the daughters of Kushadhwaja, the younger brother of king Janaka. It was a perfect match between the four sons (of Dasaratha) and the four daughters (of Janaka and Kushadwaja).

The ideal brothers!

Rama lived an ideal life. He respected His parents and followed their command. He was never concerned about any difficulties or loss. He lived harmoniously with His brothers. He had great love for them. There was no conflict whatsoever among them. The entire family was united.

King Dasaratha was ready to give up the throne

In the story of Rama many great ideals shine forth. Here is one episode: Dasaratha was sleeping in his palace. He had a dream. In that dream he saw that the whole ocean had dried up, the moon was falling and breaking into myriad pieces, an elephant in rut was tumbling down and collapsing with the howdah on its back falling apart. He woke up with a start and wondered “What is this strange dream?” “It is said that a dream in the early hours of the morning portends what is to happen. It is now the fourth quarter of the night. What does this dream portend?” thought Dasaratha. He got up from his bed. He stood before a mirror. He noticed a bizarre change in his face. He saw grey hairs stretching out between his two ears. He realised that old age was creeping on him. He tried to drink a glass of water by pouring water from a jug into a glass. He noticed that his hand was trembling. He could see that his sense organs were beginning to fail. He felt that he could carry on his reign as long as his senses were perfect. But now they were declining. One can rule a kingdom only so long as his senses are strong.

Rama stood as an example for upholding moral values

Today, morality is on the decline among human beings. Narrow mindedness is on the rise. Divinity is forgotten. Demonic nature is nurtured. This is not what we need to do. We must forget demonic qualities and hold on to Divinity. How sacred is the principle of Rama. When Rama was prepared to be coronated as the king, the very next moment, He went into the forest on exile, with the same smile on His face. Sukhadukhe Samekruthva Labhalabhau Jayajayau (Equal mindedness amidst the dualities of life – pain and pleasure, victory and defeat, gain and loss). Rama displayed this virtue of equanimity. Rama experienced the same happiness in going to the forest, as He enjoyed in getting prepared to be the king. Where is this virtue of equanimity in man today? Man aspires for positions of authority though he does not deserve them. An undeserving person expects deservedness. But Rama relinquished the position even though He deserved it. Rama was courageous in the face of adversities. He never gave any scope for weakness. The one who is in the company of Rama will always be a Dheera(courageous one), and not a Deena (weak-minded one).

Rama followed Dharma perfectly, according to the time and circumstances

Rama propagated the principle of “Vyakti Dharma” (individual Dharma). In adherence to the command of His father, Rama went on exile to the forest and suffered a lot. But He never considered this as suffering. He truly upheld the Dharma of the family. He demonstrated to the entire world that any member of the Ikshavaaku clan, based on his family Dharma, would never go back on the given word. The social aspect of the Ramayana highlights that under any circumstances; one must respect one’s parents, wife and children and bring repute to ones brothers. How did Rama protect the family in the given circumstances?

Sumitra, a noble woman, had all virtues of an ideal Mother

It is impossible to describe the great qualities of Sumitra and Shatrughna. It was the time when the coronation of Rama did not take place and He went to the forest in exile. According to the wish of Kaikeyi, Rama was to spend fourteen years in exile. Before going to the forest, Rama went to mother Kausalya to seek her blessings. She wept inconsolably. Not only she; everyone in the Antahpura (inner chambers) were in tears. There was no joy to be seen anywhere. Later Lakshmana went to mother Sumitra and sought her blessings. She said, “My dear one, Lakshmana. Do not feel sad that you are going to the forest. Truly that is not a forest. In fact, this Ayodhya is like an Aranyaa (forest) without Sita and Rama. The forest where Sita and Rama live is verily Ayodhya. So even when you live in the forest, consider it as living in Ayodhya. Rama is your father and Sita, your mother. Let nothing come in your way of serving them.”

Urmila’s broad-mindedness and utter selflessness moved Lakshmana to tears.

Then Lakshmana, as he would be away for 14 long years, went to his wife Urmila to inform her about his decision to go with Rama. Urmila, the first daughter of king Janaka, was highly virtuous. Her spirit of sacrifice and generosity was unparalleled. Being unaware of the happenings, she was painting a picture of Rama’s coronation ceremony that was to be held the next day. She was painting the close relationship that existed between Rama and Sita and she wanted to send it to her father Janaka. As she was deeply engrossed in her work, all of a sudden Lakshmana entered and called her in a raised voice, “Urmila!”. She was startled and at once stood up. As she got up in a hurry, she accidentally spilled the paint on the picture she was painting.  She felt sad for having spoiled the picture.

Ravana was Great but Rama was Good

See the difference between Rama and Ravana. Both were equally eminent intellectually and were great scholars. Ravana was a great man. Rama was a good man. The difference between greatness and goodness should be understood. Rama is good, whereas Ravana is great. How is he great? Ravana had lot of worldly and physical powers. He was very well educated. However, he could not assimilate all that he had learned. Therefore, Ravana suffered from the disease of indigestion in the form of egoism and attachment. Therefore, though he was great, he fell victim to this disease. Rama is good. He put His knowledge into practice, experienced it, shared it with the people and experienced joy. He digested His knowledge. With assimilation alone comes strength and satisfaction. It is not enough if we just learn. Only when we put it into practice and digest it, we gain strength. Only if the food is digested, the body will get strength. Only when we practice all that we have learned, we will get peace and security.

Lav and Kusha – The Ideal Messengers of God

When Lava and Kusha went about singing the glories of Rama they had no nervousness or apprehension. Today, in the modern age, if young people have to sing among many people, they feel very shy. Young persons hesitate to put on any auspicious marks on the forehead when they visit temples and do not venture to fold their palms in reverence. On the contrary, Lava and Kusha forgot all bodily consciousness and sang from their hearts the glory of Rama. They thus taught a very great message to the youth of today. There is nothing greater than chanting the name of the Lord.

Practice is the touchstone of devotion

Such a sacred scripture that can delight one to such an extent cannot be found in any other country or in any other language. Any number of years have passed by, but still, even today, everybody thinks of Rama. In Bhaarath, there is no place where Rama’s name is not chanted and there is no hand that does not practice Daanam (charity). Even in the tiniest hamlet there will be a small Rama temple. But these temples are not so very important. The temple in which Rama should be worshipped is your heart. God is the Hridayavaasi (indweller of the heart). He does not reside in Tirupati or Bhadrachalam. He is neither in Vaikunta nor in Kailaasa. They are all only branch offices. But the Head office is the heart alone. God resides in the heart of man. Therefore, you need not go anywhere or travel anywhere to seek Rama. Without going out anywhere, without incurring any expense, you can experience Rama in your heart and achieve liberation.

Speaking the Truth is so easy!

A boy said in his talk, Satyam Vada, Dharmam Chara – Speak the truth and Follow righteousness. He said, this is not easy, it is very difficult. This is wrong. There is nothing easier than speaking the truth and practising Dharma. It is truthful to say that today Swami came early at 4 pm and He started His Discourse before time. It is so easy to state facts as they are. You do not need to think over or have any worry. But if you wish to speak a lie, you have to think a lot. You have to package the lie in a manner that it will be believed. You have to use a lot of knack in speaking and finally you will become a crack! Therefore, it is so difficult to speak a lie. Speaking the Truth is so easy. We think it is difficult to speak the truth. This is very wrong. We have got used to speaking lies. Because of this we are unable to understand the truth. The world is also giving scope to such weaknesses. This weakness is present in every man.  

Do not give up Truth under any circumstances

Rama is the very embodiment of Truth. But we utter all lies. We perform the Satyanarayana Vratam (a Hindu religious observance) once a year; that is all. That is not right. Satatam Satyam. We must speak the truth always. Sarvada Sarvakaleshu Sarvatra Harichintanam. We must think of God always, at all times and everywhere. We must at least make an effort to speak the truth. But we are not doing that. The moment we open our mouth, it is lies. Whatever we say, it is lies. It is not even possible to know what truth is. Therefore students; do not give up truth under any circumstances, even if it comes to losing your very life. It is truth that will be with you, around you, front of you, behind you and will protect you like the eyelid of the eye. This is how Harischandra got transformed into Satya Harischandra. He was faced with so many difficulties and pains. He sold his wife and children, he sacrificed his kingdom, and finally became a cemetery worker. But he did not get shaken and he never gave up the truth. Finally, God Himself had to submit to him. God manifested before him, gave him back everything that he had lost and honoured him with the tile “Satya Harischandra” (The Truthful Harischandra).

Mahatma Gandhi took a vow never to speak a lie A vow that he kept up till the end of his life!

Gandhi too became Mahatma Gandhi because of the great qualities of Putlibai (his mother). Putlibai had taken a vow wherein she would not partake food or water, not even take a morsel of food until she heard the sound of the cuckoo bird in the morning. It was not possible for the son to have his food until his mother had her food. On one occasion, it became 12 noon, 1 pm and even 3 pm in the afternoon, but the mother was not willing to take her food (as she had not heard the cuckoo’s sound). At that time, Gandhi planned a strategy. He went behind his house and made a sound like the cuckoo bird. He then came in and told his mother that he had heard the cuckoo bird sing, though she could not hear, and therefore they could have their food now. The mother felt very sad. She thought to herself, “Has such an evil son been born to me from my womb? Just for the sake of food, he is betraying me by speaking lies. Making the sound of the cuckoo himself, he is lying to me that he heard the cuckoo sing”. Out of anger she caught his ears and dragged him. “Bad boy, for the sake of my food, are you speaking lies in this manner”, saying so, she slapped him. Gandhi felt very repentant and begged her for pardon. The mother said that it was not possible for her to pardon him and he must undergo the punishment for his mistake. It was from that moment that Gandhi promised that he would never utter a lie and he kept up his promise till the end of his life.   

King Bali kept up his word even at the cost of disobeying his Guru

We must have a very good speech in society. Only then we will win the faith of all. When it comes to the matter of truth, we can even disobey our Guru (teacher). Guru Shukracharya advised king Bali that Vamana was not an ordinary man. He may have come as a three feet tall dwarf but he is verily Lord Narayana Himself. If you agree to give him anything you will become a beggar. King Bali replied, “Swami, when God Himself has come asking, can I ever refrain from giving? I will give, even if I may be put into any situation. God’s hands are below and mine are above. The one who receives, his hands are always below. This itself is my good luck. It is not an ordinary person who is seeking alms from me. It is Lord Narayana Himself. Can there be any other greater fortune than this? To avail this good fortune, I am ready to forego anything. The true respect lies in keeping up ones word”.

The Peaceful, Virtuous, Strong, Respectful and Dignified Hanuman!

If you slip, you can retrace your leg and get up. But a slip of the tongue cannot be taken back. Kaalujarithe Kalagadu Nashtam, Naalagu Jarite Narakamera (A Telugu saying). If you slip (physically), there is no loss, but a slip of the tongue takes you to hell. Students, considering your words as your very life, when you talk to elders, your parents, your friends and other respectful people; you must speak the truth in a respectful and meaningful way. Hanuman being the minister of Sugriva, seeking the permission of Sugriva, came to speak to Rama and Lakshmana. Listening to the sweet words of Hanuman, Rama was very delighted. Brother Lakshmana, he is Shantudu (peaceful), Gunavuntudu (virtuous), Balavantudu (strong), Hanumantudu. Peace is verily manifest in his face. His respect and dignity speaks of his qualities.

Worship of God is the  primary purpose of all Festivals

We must not consider Yugaadi as a mere festival. We must consider it as a day of Paramaatma (God). We must consider the spiritual aspect of the day. All Bhaarateeya festivals have a special inner significance. However, we go by the mere external rituals and celebrate the day by making sweets and other delicacies. These festivals have come into being to specifically remember God, experience happiness and get rid of our sorrows. These festivals have been started to get rid of our ignorance and manifest Prajnaana, Sujnaana and Vijnaana (Awareness, Wisdom and Knowledge). Man has been gifted with intelligence along with the physical form. However, the span of the body is limited; we must not forget this. In the short span of our life, we must use our intelligence and experience true happiness. But, unfortunately man is misusing the intelligence given to him.  

God is the Master of Time and the source of all Aeons

God has been envisaged as the embodiment of Time. As He is the beginning (source) of the Yugas, the name Yugaadi has come. Yugaadiyai Namah extols God with the name of Yugaadi. He presides over Time. He is the Spirit (Atmic principle) of Time. That is why he is called Kaalatmakaaya Namah.  As God contains Time in His womb, He is also called Kaalagarbha (container of Time). Time is the devourer of the physical form; whereas the Lord is the devourer of Time itself. The New Year festival (Samvatsaraa) is an expression of the name of the Divine Itself. Therefore, Time is the very form of God. Among the 1000 names of the Lord are Samvatsaraa, Yugaadi, Kaalakaalaaya, Kaalaprasannaya, Kaalaatheethaaya, Kaalaswaroopaaya, Kaalanirmitaaya, and the like. All these are names associated with Time. The New Year festival is therefore associated with the name of the Lord. There is no need to entertain fears about the losses and difficulties that may occur during the year. When God Himself is coming down as the New Year, anything may happen, good or bad. The Lord (Maha Vishnu) may come down to protect devotees like Prahlada and Dhruva. He may also destroy demons like Hiranyakasipu and Bhasmaasura. The same Vishnu confers bliss on some and the same Vishnu destroys some others. The Lord acts according to the qualities of the persons concerned. They are either protected or punished.

God is the beginning of all Yugas He is therefore called Yugaadi

Hence, God who is the embodiment of Time / Samvatsaraa should be put to right use. We have classified the aeons into four, viz: Krita Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapara Yuga and Kali Yuga. These are not distinct from each other. The divisions have been identified based on our experiences. Whether it be Krita Yuga or Kali Yuga, it has no separate form. According to the conduct of the people at the time, the Yugas have come into being. Even during Krita Yuga there were people filled with attachments and aversions. There are even in Kali Yuga people wedded to truth and leading virtuous and peaceful lives. God is the origin of all the Yugas. Hence, one of the names bestowed on God is Yugaadi (One from whom all Yugas begin). The Yugaadi festival is celebrated for this very reason. Everything is a manifestation of the Divine. There is no second object in this world other than the Divine. He is the one who gives and He is the one who takes. Not realising this, man becomes elated when he is given something and feels depressed when something is taken away. You should therefore develop the state of equanimity which neither makes you elated nor depressed.

Yugaadi is related to the Prakruthi (Gross World)

Bharatheeyas have been observing the birthdays of Avatars (Incarnations) as festival days. The birthdays of the founders of various faiths (Mathaadipathis) have also been observed as festivals. The death anniversaries of wicked persons as well as of holy men have been observed as festivals. But the Yugaadi celebration is not related to the birth of any Avatar or the birth of any saint, prophet or the birth of any wicked person. It is related purely to Prakruthi (the phenomenal world or Nature). This is important for one and all. It is an occasion for comprehending the Nature of the universe. When we want to know who is God, the answer is Prakruthi. Prakruthi is the visible manifestation of God.

Yugaadi Pachchadi teaches us the message of equanimity

On Yugaadi day, it is the practice to eat what is called “Yugaadi Pachchadi” (New Year savoury), as soon as they get up in the morning. What is this “Yugaadi Pachchadi”? This chutney made from neem flowers, mango juice, honey, sugar and other ingredients with different tastes, is to be consumed early in the morning. The inner significance of consuming this preparation is to indicate that life is a mix of good and bad, sin and virtue, joy and sorrow; and all of them have to be treated alike. All experiences have to be treated with equanimity. Everyone should make a resolve right at the beginning of the year that whatever may come his way in the course of the year, he will face the same with equanimity. It is with this feeling that the Prasaad (chutney) must be consumed. The Prasaadammust be consumed with all satisfaction. If you criticize the Prasaadam, abusing that why consume such bitter chutney at the beginning of the year, then all along the year you will face criticism only. Welcome whatever comes your way. Consider everything as for your own good. The main goal for man is to develop such equanimity. We should exhibit the principle of equanimity by not getting elated with happiness nor getting depressed with sorrow. This is the primary message of the Yugaadi festival.

Panchaanga Sravanam reveals the good and bad associated with the five senses (human life)

There are five elements in Nature. Those very five elements are also there in our human body. Reading of the Panchaangamis the narration of the good and bad associated with these five elements in the human body. In the evening of the Yugaadi day, in villages and cities, Panchaanga Sravanam (hearing of the Panchaanga) is conducted. Panchaangameans to let one know about the good and bad associated with the five senses. 

Our own actions are responsible for good or bad  results

We are celebrating this day as New Year Day. This New Year (Hindu Year starting from April 1997) is called Eeshvara. Eeshvara means one who is endowed with all forms of wealth. People greet the New Year as if it is going to confer on them some new happiness, joy and fortunes. The good or evil, the sin or virtues, the renown or infamy experienced by people are not the outcome of the passage of years. They are the consequences of our own actions, which we experience every second. Samvathsara(the year) is one of the names of God. Because God is associated with time, He is also known as Kaalaathmaka(Time-spirit). Hence, we should not consider the New Year (Kaalaathmaka), who is the spirit of Time, as likely to bring good or bad to us. Our actions, good or bad, bear fruits according to their nature. There is no need to wait for a New Year to bring new tidings. Every moment is new. Many are wondering what will be the situation in the world, what troubles and losses the New Year will bring. For all our troubles, difficulties, sorrows and happiness, the year is not responsible. Our conduct alone is responsible. If our actions are good the results will be good. Bad actions will lead to bad consequences. People think that good and bad are related to bad time or bad actions; No – not at all. The thoughts are the cause. Hence, we should develop good thoughts and perform good deeds. We should cherish good feelings and associate ourselves with good persons.

Turn your thoughts to God and surrender to Him

We are today celebrating Yugaadi, the beginning of yet another New Year. Many New Year days have come and gone. Do you expect the New Year to bring you new happiness? Are you imagining what joy the New Year has in store for you? New Years do not offer you pleasure, prosperity or fortune. This New Year day will be like any other day with the same sunrise and sunset. Many people eagerly expect some good benefits to turn up on this day. This is all 100% negative thought. The New Year will not bring you anything new. The calendar merely tells you that a New Year has begun on a particular day. We need to find out a new path, a new life and seek a new source of joy. But unfortunately we do not think about this. We speculate on what gifts the New Year is likely to bring to us. We have to look to ourselves and not to the succession of years. Think within yourself about your condition. Turn your thoughts to God and surrender to Him. Then you will realize what you desire.

Has the New Year brought about even a little change in us?

What is the primary essence of the festival of Yugaadi? On this Yugaadi day, Bharatheeyas get up early in the morning, have a sacred bath, put on new clothes, eat sweet preparations and celebrate the day as a festive occasion. These celebrations have been going on for many years. People have celebrated so many Yugaadis. But how far have the people transformed themselves with each Yugaadi? The garments are new, but the mind remains unchanged. It is not enough to wear new clothes. Good qualities must be nurtured. There is no use of changing clothes, qualities need to change. Without a reformation in mind and character there is no meaning in observing any number of festivals.

Live in the present. Present is most important. It is not ordinary present. It is Omnipresent!

What should we do on the day of Yugaadi? From this day onwards we must take a firm resolve to make attempts to purify our heart. Past is past. It cannot be retrieved. When you are walking on the road, what is the point in looking behind? You do not need to see back, you should look at the path ahead of you. Future is not sure. It is not certain. Within seconds it will pass away. What is the guarantee that you will be alive until tomorrow? So, do not worry about your future. Do not brood about it. Live in the present. Present is most important. It is not ordinary present. It is omnipresent! When you make the present sacred, the past will also become sacred and the future will also become sacred (meaning the results of past and seeds of future are contained in the present; so when you make proper use of the present, you can be rest assured that your future is safe and secure). Embodiments of Love! Today is Yugaadi, the New Year day for the people of Andhra Pradesh. Tomorrow happens to be the Tamil New Year day and the day after, Vishu, the New Year Day for the people of Kerala. There are many festivals coming one after another. There is no shortage of festivals. There are so many festivals. But we must have the understanding to experience the festival in the right manner. Embodiments of Love! From tomorrow onwards, right from this moment, embark on a new life giving up bad thoughts and bad qualities. Purify your heart. Only then will your life be blissful. There is no point in reading sacred texts or visiting noble souls unless you purify your heart in the first instance. Let your thoughts, words and deeds be sacred. Then alone will you get fulfilment in life. This is the true transformative experience of celebrating Yugaadi.

Do not limit the New Year celebration to wearing new clothes and eating sweets

On Yugaadi day, people get up early, have a sacred bath, put on new clothes and partake of sweets and various delicacies at home. Observing external cleanliness and donning new clothes is very easy, but we are polluting the inner feelings in our heart with evil qualities, evil thoughts and evil feelings. One can claim that one has truly experienced (and benefited from) the festival of Yugaadi only when one purifies one’s heart, makes it sacred and nurtures selfless feelings.

Decorate your house with the buntings of Love!

People have celebrated many Yugaadi (New Year) festivals in their life. We believe in certain traditional practices that go along with every festival, such as wearing new clothes, cleaning the house and decorating it with buntings of green leaves. Greatness lies in making an effort to purify our thoughts and feelings; not merely in purifying this transient human body, which is worldly, impermanent and unstable. The significance of a festival does not lie in wearing new clothes but in cultivating new and noble qualities. The house should be decorated not merely with the buntings of green leaves, but with buntings of love. We must share our love with everyone who visits our homes. Only when we celebrate the festival with such transformation, would we be celebrating the festival realizing its true spirit.

Give up narrow mindedness and selfishness

Embodiments of Love! We have been experiencing the bliss of celebrating Yugaadi (New Year) for the past many ages and generations. The Bharateeyas have been spreading peace and security to all the nations of the world with their power of spirituality. Since time immemorial the prayer of the Bharateeyas has been: Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu (May all the people of the world be happy!). They prayed for peace and security of the entire world. Today, humanity has made great progress in the physical and worldly plane. But morally man has regressed. He is not able to give up his narrow-mindedness and criticism of others. When each one conducts a self-enquiry, he would find that the main reasons for this state of affairs are selfishness and self-interest. Today, man does not love objects for the sake of the objects. He does not love others for their sake. He does not worship the nation for the sake of the nation. Anything that he sees, does or thinks is out of selfishness. The day we would be able to give up our narrow mindedness, we would have achieved the true benefit of Yugaadi.

Today, we are celebrating Yugaadi, which means the commencement of a new era. It denotes the beginning of every Yuga, be it Krita, Treta or Kali Yuga. This is the beginning of Nuthana Samvathsaraa(New Year). Vathsaraa is another name of God. That is why God is extolled as Vathsaraswarupaaya Namah (salutations to the one who is the embodiment of Vathsaraa). Time is God. Vathsaraais its cosmic form. So, Time and Vathsaraaconnote the same Divinity. The New Year has to be sanctified by new thoughts and new feelings. Today, humanity is stricken with fear and restlessness. Courage and strength are on the decline, because people have unsacred thoughts and wicked feelings. Your enemies are not outside. Your bad thoughts are your worst enemies and thoughts based on Truth are your best friends. But today, people do not befriend the thoughts based on Truth, which are essentially Divine. You have to make friendship with Sath, the eternal truth. Sath means Being, the ever-existent God. The worldly friends and enemies change with changes in time, action and responsibility. But Sath is the true and eternal friend. This friend is always with you, in you, around you, above you, below you and protects you just as the eyelid protects the eye.

God is ever smiling! Happiness is union with God

Even with the passage of the New Year, we still hold on to our old practices. Sacred feelings, sacred behaviour, sacred actions, sacred sacrifice and sacred talk do not come forth at all. We repeat the same old songs, same old talk, same old behaviour. We say this is a New Year, but then where are the new feelings? We must develop new ideas and new enthusiasm. If we are depressed all the time, when will we learn to express the joy of good living? We must be cheerful all the time. We must never worry. That is the mark of the Divine within. Happiness is union with God, not with dog! We must have a smiling face always. God is eternal bliss. If you too smile always, you will become God.

True Bliss is permanent. It does not “come and go”

Today the New Year has dawned. We observe the festival at home and derive happiness in so many ways. But how long does this happiness last? It does not last even for a day. This is not true happiness. This is not the real New Year. The happiness that we get must be permanent. True bliss does not “come and go”.  It is not like a passing cloud. Once it comes, it remains permanently with us. We have been born with this very bliss.

Purify your hearts and nurture good  feelings

Embodiments of Love! Today is Yugaadi, the beginning of the New Year. Since ancient times, people have celebrated many Yugaadis, but they are yet to give up bad qualities. True Yugaadi is the day when you purify your heart, develop sacred feelings, fill your heart with love and take to the path of sacrifice. Do not limit the celebration of Yugaadi to merely putting on new clothes and partaking of delicious food items. Today you may wear a new shirt, but how long will it remain new? Tomorrow it becomes old. In the same way, we read a newspaper today. Nobody reads the same old newspaper every day. Today’s newspaper becomes tomorrow’s waste paper.

Mere spending of money cannot wash away our sins

This New Year (starting from 29^th March 1998) is called the Bahudhaanyaa. Bahudhaanya means there would be plenty of grain. There is plenty of grain even now, there is no shortage. But are we consuming the grain properly? No. Are we feeding some few hungry people? No. Thus good names have been given to each of the New Years. All these are names of God only. Prabhava, Vibhava, Shukla,…Angirasa, Bhava, Yuva…Vikrama, Vishu…Sarvadhaari, Virodhi…(Bhagawan gives the names of a number of New Years). All these are such sacred names. You cannot underestimate any name. Some say that certain New Years are bad and will bring bad results. Do you know why they say so? So that they can earn money by prescribing rituals for attaining peace! Can spending of money ward away the sins?  In fact, we are becoming mad. Money cannot solve the problem. It is only our heart which can solve the problem. How much ever bad we may do, always contemplate on God.

Feed the poor everyday

Devotees come and suggest to me that they should be allowed to organize “poor feeding” on Yugaadi. Why should they call it “poor feeding”? Can they not call it “feeding of poor”? “Poor feeding” means serving very less quantity of rice. Even in use of words, we are so negative! Swami never uses such negative words at all. Should this “feeding of poor” be done only on one day of the year? What will the poor people eat on other days? You must feed the poor on all days. That is the broad heart of Bhagawan! You can never estimate the broad heartedness of Bhagawan! Bhagawan’s is expansion Love, whereas yours is contraction love.

Yugadi celebration is an annual reminder of man’s obligation to express his gratitude to the Divine

Expressing gratitude is the foremost duty of man. This gratitude is called Bhakti (Devotion). It is not just chanting the name of God. Naamasmaranaa(chanting the name of God) is just a part of the gratitude. Oh God! For having given me this sacred human birth, what is the gratitude that I can express to you? I will chant your name continuously. This is my gratitude to You. All the nine paths of devotion are symbolic of gratitude to God. Without gratitude, man will become worse than a beast living in the forest. Therefore, the Yugaadi celebration every year is an annual reminder for man to transform his heart for the purpose of seeking God.

There are six excerpts from Bhagawan’s Discourses presented in this post. These have been selected from Discourses given by Bhagawan Baba during the years 1996, 2001, 2005 and 2006.

Because of your past merit and good fortune you have come to Swami

Because of your past merit and good fortune you have come to Swami. You do not know this. At this age you cannot understand, however in future you will be able to understand the principle of Swami. You have received the great fortune which rarely people can get, but you are giving it up easily and going away. You are disobeying the command. You are not following the command. You are not able to appreciate the good words.

Become a “Number One” individual

Students, first have a control over your mind. Offer your mind to God alone. God can do everything for you. He can do anything for that matter. Therefore, with all devotion, have the conviction that He is everywhere. Never entertain the doubt that God is here and not there. God is present everywhere, wherever you look for Him, you will find Him there.