Awakening of Youth = Pujya Gurudev

Shantikunj's Campaign for Awakening of Youth

Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

A Creative Movement for Moral, Intellectual and Cultural Awakening of the Future Leaders of the Nation Introduction As spring is the most vibrant and verdant amongst the seasons, so is youth in the changing phases of life - a fountainhead of joy, enthusiasm, valour and courage. Self-disciplined youth committed to noble ideals are a source of infinite energy leading to ever higher progress and prosperity. History bears testimony to the fact that youth have always established new benchmarks with their wisdom, courage, indomitable energy and strong willpower - be it the domain of materialism or spirituality. Indeed, whatever bright chapters are found in the history of the world, they have been written by the youth. It is the youthful divine urge of Ekoham bahusyam that created the whole cosmos. The youthfulness of Nature is expressed in the form of its beauty. The youth, Ram, painfully moved by the cultural degradation of his time vowed?’Nishichar heen karahu mahi’ (meaning: I vow to eliminate all evil traits from the face of the earth). When the youthful message of the Geeta aroused from within the youthfulness of Partha, the latter won the great war of Mahabharat. The youthfulness of human compassion transformed prince Siddhartha into The Buddha. The youthfulness of Guru Gobind Singh became a challenge for the tyrants. When youth get surcharged by Tapa (penance), they become Bhagwan Mahavir, Swami Dayanand, Swami Vivekanand, Swami Ramteerth, etc. It is the youthfulness of the martyrs which broke the chains of slavery of Mother India. The youthfulness of Param Poojya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya and Vandaniya Mataji laid the foundation of Gayatri Mission ? committed to ushering of the New Golden Era. Youth is the passionate urge to grow both in matters mundane as well as spiritual. Unfortunately, at present we are passing through a dark period of cultural debauchery. Materialistic consumerism and self-indulgence are on their climax; and directionlessness, evil tendencies and lack of creativity are making our young generation hollow from within. Over and above that unemployment, drug abuse, and western style of living are draining off their energies. In such a dismal situation, it becomes essential to acquaint the youth of our nation with our cultural heritage and make them realize the true purpose of their lives. What is needed for a bright future in the twenty-first century ? is the total transformation of the present way of life ? from crass materialism to life ? affirming spirituality. In order to organize the youth into the nation’s enlightened power, Shantikunj has initiated a nation-wide ’Youth Movement’.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

My Role as a Manishi= Pujya Gurudev

My Role as a Manishi

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

[Autobiography of Pujya Gurudev, continued from the previous issue] The new era will dawn by refinement of thoughts and emotions. If there has to be any revolution it will not be through shedding blood but by eliminating the base instincts and thoughts embedded in the human psyche and their substitution by refined, noble and uplifting thoughts and feelings. A man is elevated with the help of his inner power. It is true that the atmosphere purified by tapascarya and endurance, education, proximity and guidance of noble persons also play very important roles. It has been observed that even most ordinary and least competent persons act heroically and accomplish tasks which are otherwise impossible for them to do, if they identify themselves with the irresistible and allrconquering force of a great and noble ideal, inspired by the Time Spirit (Mahakal), which has fired the imagination, mind and the heart of society at a particular time. In the ancient times Manisis and Munis (spiritually evolved thinkers and saints) used to play this role. They used to remain absorbed in Yugrsadhana and through the effective medium of pen and speech they used to sublimate and inspire the thoughts of the people.

Such sadhaks created several elevated persons, awakened their dormant powers, moulded them in the right direction and brought about salutary and revolutionary changes in the society. Although such persons were apparently like ordinary people, they were highly superior in terms of elevation of soul, illumined intelligence, refined emotions and dedication to higher ideals. It is wellr known that Munis and risis have been regarded as two types of geniuses in the spiritual field. Risis were those who were engaged in tapascarya and conducted spiritual research and thereby guided the common masses. Those who focused on progressive refinement and sharpening of human mind and intellect by their thinking, contemplation and intensive study were known as Munis. One was a symbol of piety (risis) and the other of brilliance (Munis). Both of them had to do intensive tapascarya and sadhana to become extremely refined so that by making themselves spiritually powerful and expansive they could completely change the trend of the minds and hearts of the people. While Munis are at liberty to use physical resources and means, the same is not necessary for risis who can also work in the astral form and exert their energies from there to surcharge the atmosphere with noble sanskars.

Ordinarily, by Manisis people understand a great man, Mahapragya r whose mind is under his control, who is not guided by the impulses of his mind but guides it. Such a person is known as Manisi and his pragya (divine intellect and intuition) as Manisa (spiritual wisdom). It is stated in the scriptures, manisa asti yesam te manisi na. But side by side it has also been stated, Manisi nastu bhavanti, pavnana na bhavanti, which means that there are so many Manisis who are very sharp of intellect but it is not necessary that they may be holy or pious also. One may be intelligent but it is a different thing to be not only intelligent but also have a pious and pure inner consciousness.

Today a large number of editors, intellectuals, writers, investigators, and scientists are scattered throughout the country but they are not Manisis. Why? Because they have not performed tapascarya to acquire piety by inner purification. There is no dearth of books, literature etc. these days. Looking to the plethora of newspapers, magazines, journals etc., which are being published these days, it would appear as if the number of Manisis and, their readers have increased manifold. Why then are these publications not having healthy impact on the minds of their readers? The reason can obviously be found in the aforesaid dictum pavnana na bhavanti. If literature of high standards had been written and published to uplift and refine thoughts and feelings one would not have found so much perversion and chaos in the society. The right solution to the dayrtorday problems lies in the hands of Yugr Manisis. As I have stated earlier, the new era will dawn by refinement of thoughts and emotions. If there has to be any revolution it will not be through shedding blood but by eliminating the base instincts and thoughts embedded in the human psyche and their substitution by refined, noble and uplifting thoughts and feelings. If a new society of a nobler and higher order is to be formed it will be possible only by the implanting of righteous thoughts and feelings. The sorcalled intelligentsia is responsible for making the present society utterly debased. The intelligentsia has played a prominent role in creating hatred, riots, illrwill, racialism and extensive human bloodshed. Had they followed the righteous path, had their hearts been pure, had they been purified by tapascarya, they would have created a constructive flow of scientific achievements and had written highrquality inspiring literature. When Hitler intended to give material shape to Nietzsche’s theory of dictatorship he, first of all, turned the minds of the people of the entire nation towards it. The teachers and scientists became fanatic supporters of Nazism and this negative ideology of ’Mein Kemph’ was propagated through the curricula and newspapers of the country. The entire nation became a victim of this fanaticism and this frenzy of racial superiority resulted not only in widespread human destruction but ultimately ruined the country itself. If this Manisa had been turned in the right direction, it would have helped Germany in attaining unheard of prosperity and allrround progress. Karl Marx, who was economically indigent throughout his life, propounded an economic theory that revolutionized the whole society. The castles of capitalism were demolished and death knell of imperialism was sounded in almost tworthirds of the entire world. His book Das Kapital inaugurated the beginning of a new era in which the rights of the workers were recognized and a new chapter of equitable distribution of money and materials was opened.

Millions of people thus got an opportunity to lead a happy life of selfrreliance. Had the ideology of Rousseau not so widely influenced the masses, the philosophy of universal franchise and majority rule would not have gained ground and the rule of "might is right" would have continued unchecked. The supremacy of crude Jagirdars and rulers would have still continued according to the tradition of inheritance. Thus, it is due to the revolution inspired by Manisa that colonizers were swept away and colonial rule was abolished. In this context, I have always been referring to the name of Lady Hariot Stow, along with those of Lincoln and Luther King, whose writings helped the black people in freeing themselves from the clutches of slavery .Obviously this was the role played by Yugr Manisa. The revolution brought about by the insights of Buddha was based on wisdom, farsightedness and morality .The hurricane of the movement for independence raised by Gandhi, Patel and Nehru was the indirect result of the Manisa which had by its tremendous force metamorphosed the era. Not all these great persons had written volumes of thoughtrprovoking literature. What they achieved was possible only when they played the role of Munis, awakened their dormant inner energies and created so much power in their thoughts and feelings that the whole atmosphere was surcharged with a great ideal. Circumstances are also quite disconcerting these days.

To save humanity, which is swinging, pendulumrlike, between prosperity and total destruction, it is necessary to undertake the Herculean labour to fathom the deepest depths of perennial values to rerestablish supremacy of human dignity and spiritual wisdom. It is erroneous to think that material resources will be able to accomplish this work. Spirituality alone can flush out inner perversions. I have made Manisa alone the medium to instil piety and brilliance in human beings and have visualized the dream of a golden future. To give proper direction to human thinking, I have given priority in my future programme to the creation of an irresistible current of noble thoughts that would instantly wash away all the impurities and evil tendencies entrenched in the collective human psyche. Viciousness has overpowered the minds of the people these days. To change this atmosphere such awakened persons are needed who could play the roles of Munis and risis like Vyas, Buddha, Gandhi, Karl Marx, Martin Luther, Aurobindo, Maharshi Raman; and fulfill the aim of Vicar Kranti (revolution in thought) through direct or indirect efforts. This is possible only by mighty inner tapascaryarsadhana whose visible manifestation will be the energy of Yugr Manisa which by its power would write literature of highest standard capable of transforming the present era. It is my moral duty to continue working towards the fulfillment of the pledge which I had taken forty seven years back (around 1938) to disseminate the insights revealed to me through the medium of Akhand Jyoti. While indirectly playing the role of a Yugrrisi, it was in my mind to prepare facilities for authentic research in regard to integration of science and spirituality, which is convincing on the basis of logic, facts and scientifically verified results. How research work should be conducted in respect of investigations into deeper realms of SoulrSpirit? What is the scientific basis of sadhana and upasana? How could mental faculties be trained and developed by sadhana? How could medical science of the ancient risis (Ayurveda) be revived for restoration and maintenance of physical and mental health? How does the power of sound produced by uttering Gayatri mantra and the energy produced by the fire of yagya make a person pious and powerful and how is his body energized with liferforce to make him capable of struggling against adverse circumstances? How could humanity be benefited in the present times by conducting fresh researches and experiments in matters relating to astronomical science? I have given new forms to such aspects of research, which are being conducted here according to the Atharva Vediya risi traditions. I have made a beginning and created a model as a guideline for the intelligentsia. I will go on encouraging and guiding all these efforts indirectly. It is my hope that the entire community of scientists would think and move ahead in this direction so that they may be able to apply their pragya in conducting research in the realm of spiritual science. My determination to be of benefit to mankind by my Manisa

and research is taking a concrete shape during my ongoing suksmikarana sadhana, the results of which will be visible in future.

Thanks GOD Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Birth Centenary Celebration of Puja Gurudev

My Sadhana of Life = Pujya Gurudev

The Inner Aspect of My Sadhana of Life -3

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

I do not subscribe to the view that those, who are insincere, selfish and working only for the welfare of their own children, would get any benefit of prayer, worship, fasting and pilgrimage unless they bring about revolutionary transformation in their thoughts and actions r directing them towards selfless and loving service of the needy. It would have been difficult for me to climb the two steps of "Matrivat Paradaresu" and "Paradravyesu losڨavat" had I not had the will to realize the real purpose of life, its aim and its utility as also the courage and valour to tread the noble path.

Those who considered their real self as the body and remained mired in lust and greed had to remain deprived of the spiritual progress. My boat of progress has reached the shore not on the strength of formal prayer, worship and rituals. I had to remain engaged in faithrfilled Gayatri Purascarana for 24 years in order to complete a major phase of Upasana. The full benefit of this Sadhana could be derived only when I assimilated the substance of spiritual progress in the process of practical life. If I too had adopted the way of others performing formal prayer, worship and rituals for propitiating gods in order to fulfill the desires and had not realized the needs of life and regulated it, surely my Sadhana would have come to naught. I personally know many a ritualistic worshippers engaged in the routine for long. Their prayer, worship etc. are much arduous and elaborate than mine. But on careful observation they were found to be hollow. Of course, they have the false belief that they can avail enjoyment in heaven after death. But after analytical examination I declare that none of them will go to heaven nor are they going to get any miraculous powers.

The prayer, worship and rituals can yield useful results only when life is regulated and progress made towards loftiness and sublimity; when the outlook improves and is reflected in their actions and behaviour. I do not subscribe to the view that those, who are insincere, selfish and working only for the welfare of their own children, would get any benefit of prayer, worship, fasting and pilgrimage unless they bring about revolutionary transformation in their thoughts and actions r directing them towards selfless and loving service of the needy.

 There is no doubt that rituals are useful, but their utility is like that of pen for the purpose of writing. How can you write without pen? How can there be progress without prayer and worship? With this logic it should also be understood that it is not possible to write by merely possessing pen and paper. In order to write, the matter has to be acquired by reading, thinking, refining the thoughts and intellectual development. Without these, no writing is possible and no poem can be composed. The inner excellence is like intellectual development and prayer and worship can be likened to pen and paper. Coordination of both is required for the writing to materialize. Without one of them, the other is incomplete. I knew well that the cart of Sadhana cannot run on one wheel and hence I properly provided for both the wheels. There is no secrecy or mystery in my Upasana. I have performed the Gayatri Upasana in the normal way as described in the book "Gayatri Mahavigyan". So long as I was sitting in Upasana, I imagined and felt that the divine light of Mother Gayatri, which is the supreme power of Effulgent Intelligence, was entering into every cell of mine. Just as iron gets hot and red in powerful fire, my inner being was getting purified to the level of my deity of worship itself and whole of my body became effulgent with the assimilation of the divine brightness of Mother Gayatri; and the impulsive impurities of body and mind were burnt in this fire.

The disorders and diseases were also burnt up in this fire of Tapas. Only the body is mine, but intense Brahmavarcas (sublime divine effulgence) is undulating within. Saraswati the Goddess of Knowledge, has occupied the tongue, the organ of speech. The devils of untruth, deceit and taste left that divine temple and ran away. The eyes are left with the ability to see only goodness and beauty of God in everything. Defects like fault finding and sensuality are no more left in the eyes. Ears can hear only the auspicious voices, deflecting back all the deafening and defiling din and noise. When the effulgent light of Mother Gayatri entered into the subtle body r the foursome of mind, intellect, emotions, and consciousness r I began to experience that Brahmavarcas was pulling me towards a higher realm in which evil desires and ambitions vanish and noble thoughts and emotions become active. The intellect understood that the rare gift of human life is not meant to be wasted away in catering to fleeting desires and silly temptations and that every moment of life must be utilized for fostering noble and uplifting ideals.

Faith of a high order was firmly planted in the conscience and an insatiable urge to march forward to Satyam (Truth)rϩvam (Auspiciousness)rSundaram (Supreme Beauty) was aroused. The brightness of god Savita (Sun, creator of the universe) is refining my being by entering into the inner body. God has elevated me far above the stage of helpless mortals and has placed me in a pure blissful state. While engaged in Gayatri Purascarana it was not only ’Japa’ (reciting of mantras) that was being done but the mind too was dancing on the waves of blissful feelings. The causal body was experiencing the feeling of ´mabodh, ´ma darsan and ´ma Vistar (selfrawareness, selfrvision and selfrexpansion). I felt that my soul was merged in that Supreme brightness of Savita. My egorcentered existence ended and in its place came sublime vastness. Every moment, I was feeling such blissful joy of the Supreme Soul that all the mundane pleasures put together could be sacrificed at its alter.

 In the beginning of Japa, the divine light was consciously visualized in the Sthula (gross body), Suksma (subtle body) but in due course it became an uninterrupted direct experience. So long as I was sitting in Upasana the ocean of divine light of Savita kept waving within and around my being and I concretely felt that my existence was getting engrossed in this divine light. Within and without there was nothing other than light. This experience of Divine Vision remained undimmed throughout the duration of worship. The entire duration of Sadhana passed off mostly in this state of exultation. The six hour’s time spent in prayer provided inspiration for the remaining 18 hours.

While at work there was a concrete feeling that the light of the deity of my worship is my guide and every act is accomplished as directed by him. The thought that any of my work was impelled by greed or lust never occurred to me. Like a mother helping the child to walk by holding its fingers, the divine power took hold of my intellect and inspired me to think high thoughts and noble ideas. Apart from Upasana throughout the waking hours there was a concordant feeling that all my daily routine, study, thinking and earning for the household were being performed under the guidance and direction of the Supreme Soul. The six hours of sleep at night passed off as if in Samadhi (trance). And when I woke up I felt that a new life, new light and new joy were waiting to guide my steps during my waking hours. During the 24 years of 24 Purascaranas, I had no heavy social or family responsibility.

So the process of recitation of mantras, meditation and concentration were done very attentively and without any distraction. The firmness of faith in the dictum of "Matrivat Paradaresu" and "Paradravyesu losڨavat" spared the body from falling into any sinful trap. The simple and satwik food controlled the mind and saved it from all pitfalls of degradation. The bread of barley and the buttermilk of cow were relishing and easily digestible. At every step throughout my life I have experienced the veracity of the dictum that "Yatha Ann, Thata mann (As is the food, so is the mind)". Had not the body and mind been watchfully kept under control, I doubt, it would have been possible to progress to the humble extent, I have.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Too much of anything is bad = Pujya Gurudev

Too much of anything is bad

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

The wise recommend against excess of any kind. This applies not just to the bad qualities, but also to the good ones. There is a fable where King Bali was consigned to anguish and suffering on account of his being blindly and excessively charitable. Exceptions are always there, but for humans in general excess is best avoided.

Lord Buddha prescribes the middle-path of having fewer desires and prefers the desires that are elevating in nature. This is a balance between unbridled indulgence and complete suppression. If you go too fast, you get tired too soon. With extreme slothfulness, on the other hand, you may never reach the goal.

When an elephant crosses a river, each step is taken carefully and firmly. First, it feels the earth with one foot to ensure that it is hard, steadies the first foot, and then lifts up the second foot. Without this strategy, the elephant risks falling into water, ditches, or swamps. At the same time, if the elephant panics and hesitates to even start taking the first step, it can not cross the river. Elephant is an intelligent animal; it has sharp awareness of its size, of its need to cross the river, and of the dangerous nature of the waves in the river flow. Considering all factors, it starts the journey with sincere effort and completes it successfully. We can learn from the elephant and begin our projects with thorough understanding and sincerity. There is a reason each grade in school takes one year. For most people, it would be impossible to learn it all in a month. The learning accumulated at a moderate pace is internalized and has therefore a higher likelihood of actually being useful. A tree takes its own time to produce fruit. A child takes its own time to transition from the womb into the world. It is unwise to try to rush, as it is to unnecessarily slow down. We should go about each endeavor in a manner that is congruent to the nature of the work, our own capabilities, and the circumstances.

Eating too much is bad. Eating too little is just as bad. In general excess of both consumption as well as abstinence is bad. Both overindulgence and extreme penance often lead to a shorter lifespan. It is unwise to be miserly; being charitable to the extent that one doesn't have anything to eat is not wise either. Laziness and procrastination hurt the individual but overstraining industriousness is also harmful in the long run. Madly trying to amass wealth is not good; neither is ending up in extreme poverty due to financial negligence. If we eat desserts and sweets all the time, not only will we lose interest in them, they will damage our health. No fat and sugar-free food on the other hand will also lead to many health problems as well. When it comes to wearing clothes, too many is just as bad is too little. For our mental faculties, we stand to lose from both overusing as well as under-using our brain.

Being principled in an acute, intolerant, and fanatical manner is not behooving. We must be tolerant and respectful of different opinions. Both blind faith and disbelief are bad. Just like the swan that separates water from milk, we should discriminate between right and wrong, accept what is right and abandon what is wrong. Depending on the time, place, and the people, we have to adjust our strategy. A nonadjustable extreme policy should be avoided.

Idealism is a worthy goal. We need to be careful; however, not to jump before we are ready and end up with a broken leg. To accomplish lofty goals, a strong mature character is needed. It takes a lot of patience to develop this character. To be successful, we need to tread the middle path, with patience, calmness and determination.

Shortcomings of one-sided development

Mental imbalance leads to biased and one-sided development. We should always try to adjust with our circumstances. If we do not fit in with the environment at home, work, or society, we feel unsatisfied and agitated in our hearts. For example, there might be some elements in our environment that we don't agree with, or that we are even jealous of. It is impossible to permanently escape the feeling of dislike and jealousy. Unless we learn to work through it, and unless we learn to be friends with opposing feelings, we can not attain mental peace.

What is the reason for internal struggles in the mind? Two opposing thoughts, two opposing points of view arise on our mental horizon. We need to make progress despite them. Balance is the only way.

A thief is unable to navigate through the differences within his desires, heart, and soul. His greed subdues his soul. He lets attachment get ahead to the extent that it engulfs him and propels him to steal. The cry for truth and justice is hushed. Overly troubled kids, people prone to fighting and conniving, are all victims of such imbalance. They are unable to steer and balance their mental existence. Some of their perversions are so strong that they totally choke their discriminating ability.

Mental activities may be divided into three parts - Feelings, thoughts, and actions. It is rare for these three to work harmoniously. Some people have strong feelings, but they do not translate into thoughts and actions, leading to confusion, and extreme sensitivity. Such people are unable to handle and control their feelings. Some are strong thinkers; they get lost in deep philosophical puzzles. Numerous plans rise and fall in their thought realm; they are very good at planning. But they have a hard time translating their thoughts into action. The persons of action do not think thoroughly and do not get caught up in emotions, but get a lot done. There is nothing to stop them, however, from doing needless and even harmful things.

A well balanced individual has the harmonious interplay of feelings, thoughts, and actions. Such a person enjoys perfect mental health.

We need to protect ourselves from going overboard, to ward off imbalance. Let’s not be so blinded by emotions that we lose touch with reality. Let’s not be so blinded by thoughts that we have no time to actually put our thoughts into action. Thinking is a good thing, but not acting on the thoughts only leads to laziness and unhappiness.
Integrated development of the three aspects -- thoughts, feelings, and actions -- is essential for a well rounded personality. One who is prone to anger, anxiety, and other such impulsive behaviors should exercise caution with strong feelings. Those who are prone to act mostly on paper should learn to be more realistic. We should learn to translate our aspirations into actions. Truly great men are those whose intelligence attains complete development; they have strong feelings, thoughts, as well as strong actions. Mahatma Gandhi is an excellent example of such greatness.

Importance of balance in Life

Imagine a man who is walking amidst a strong storm. The sand blinds his eyes. He tries to go the right way, but with half closed eyes, he gets misled into different pathways. He wants to go on the correct route, but is unable to.

The internal state of most humans is no different. Internally, we are victims of several opposing feelings. Greed and lust surround and attack us from all sides and we just keep running distractedly in the sand storm. Our positive thoughts do caution us occasionally. If these thoughts are strong enough, we are saved from disaster. Otherwise, there is no way of getting out of the spiral of confusion and blind chasing the demons of pleasure and greed.

Human life is influenced by several internal as well as external powers. Emotions say - "This man is sick and needy. Let’s help him, forget about our own pleasure and luxuries. Think of all the examples of great kindhearted men - Karna, Shivi, Harishchandra! They achieved greatness through compassion, kindness, and charity. We should do the same. We should not think too much of our own needs."

Thoughts argue - "Are you crazy? Think, be realistic. If you make big promises, give away unrealistically, you will be in a big mess. Don't let your emotions get the better of you. The world respects money."  Feelings of pleasure say - "You have worked hard enough. You should relax now. Enjoy life. You only live once."

Thus, human mind is full of thoughts, emotions, lust, physical strength, emotional strength, love, jealousy, and many more inter-conflicting powers that are at constant war with one another. To be successful, one must calm these powers down, and balance them out.

Humans need emotions; we would be like statues of stone without any emotions in our hearts. We also need discriminatory powers, as well as the power of argument. If we do not think before we act, if we do not use our intelligence; then we are behaving more like animals than humans. Similarly, lust, hatred, and love, all have their place in our life. Happiness and success, however, lie in striking a balance between all these drives.

Alexander, Caesar, and Aurangzeb all had mighty ambitions. Karna (in Mahabharata) had an overflow of emotions, and Ravana had an overflow of arrogance. None of them met a glorious end.

Too emotional, too logical and argumentative, too action-oriented - all three attributes may lead to failure due to imbalance. It’s crucial, therefore, that we develop all facets in a balanced way. We must avoid the extremes. True act of life lies in proper balance between the opposing forces.

Thanks Sadguru, Thanks GOD,

Shiv Sharma

Yug Nirman Yojana = Pujya Gurudev

Yug Nirman Yojana A Sure Remedy for Present-day Ills

The Great Creation of yugrishi Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

    
                  ‘Yug Nirman Yojana’∗ (Campaign for Era - Transformation) through the medium of Gayatri Sadhana  is thesure remedy prescribed by the Seer-Sage Swami Sarveswaranandji for all the ills of soul-mind-body bywhich mankind is afflicted in the present age. His disciple –  Acharya Sriram Sharma – made Herculean
efforts to implement his Master’s Plan and established the global Gayatri Mission, with its headquarters atGayatri Teerth Shantikunj Hardwar, for the production of this wonder cure-all drug. The followers ofAcharyasri, the Gayatri Parijans, are making an all – out effort to distribute this medicine (of GayatriSadhana) to one and all.                               Acharyasri asserted that Gayatri is for everyone; it is a divinely inspired revolution,
which is bound to succeed in spite of all the opposition from dogmatic forces of outmoded traditions andbeliefs.

                    The aim of ‘Yug Nirman’- revolution is to achieve the inner refinement and upliftment of the individual,the family and the society at large; and thus lay a firm foundation for the emergence of the golden era ofgenuine peace on earth.
The role of Gayatri Sadhana is to bring about a synthesizing transformation of attitudes, feelings andthoughts. If the existing divisive and ego-driven beliefs / traditions of the masses could be transmutedthrough spiritual awakening, then people, physically remaining the same, will intuitively experience theunderlying Unity and Harmony of all that exists and will be rid of their mis-identity with the body.

                   This process of change of the era has already begun. The visible emergence of the bright future of humanityin the twenty-first century is very much linked with the success of Yug Nirman Yojana. Since its fulfillmentis divinely ordained, the one thing that the parijans have to do in this transition period is to contribute
their mite by uplifting and transmuting themselves through Gayatri Sadhana and then, by example, inspireothers to do so. This will have the needed ripple effect, which will steadily build up the needed criticalmass for initiating the process of human transformation, resulting in lasting peace and harmony on earth.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Divinity Evolve within you = Pujya Gurudev

Cast out all Illusions, Let Divinity Evolve within you

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Translation of a discourse in Hindi on " Devatva Vikasita Karen, Kalanemi Na Banen Delivered by Rev. Gurudev Pandit Sriram Sharma Acharya on Gurupurnima, 1986  continued from the previous issue) Let us begin with the collective chanting of the Gayatri Mantra: Om Bhur Buvah Swah, Tatsaviturvarenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi, Dhiyo Yonah Pracodayat || Friends, You are not ordinary. Only you are ignorant of your real self-identity. Whatever be the name and shape of your physical bodies, sitting in this hall clad in dhoti-kurta or sari, with or without spectacles, caps and what not, you should know that the purpose of your life is great. Though born in the form of monkeys and bears in the Ramayana age, the divine associates of Lord Ram did not remain like ordinary monkeys or bears. You should also remember your role in letting the new world order become a reality and resurrecting the ancient glory of India as a pacesetter for spiritual transformation of the humanity. I have already told you Nostradamus popular predictions concerning future of global political scenario. Let me now add what I foresee  particularly with respect to those dedicated to our Yug Nirman mission. Their future is bright.
I have already killed the enemies (giant hindrances, threats of evil forces) on their way; what might appear as an intractable obstacle is only like a shadow, which will disappear soon after facing the courageous collective efforts of those who might appear tiny today. If you are devoted to this grand mission inspired by the Almighty, you will also be among the crown prince(ss) of creation of new world order. Begin your march along this path to the golden future with a promising initiative of the Pragya Vidyalaya in your area. I will not be present there physically, but will send you my thoughts, zeal, and energy to augment your endeavors. In todays talk, we have got a glimpse of what is in store for the future - leading role of India and hence greater responsibility upon us to refine our talents and be prepared to expand our altruistic activities far beyond our families and communities. We also have to put in best of our efforts to disseminate Indian Cultural values, spirituality, scientific religion and knowledge  the revival of ancient seats of learning like Nalanda Vishwavidyalaya would be a milestone in this direction. Another important point I want to tell you is that our Yug Nirman mission has to strengthen its activities on the reformative and reconstructive fronts - elimination of archaic customs, illiteracy, ignorance, untoward tendencies, on the one hand and cultivation and expansion of mass awakening, education, welfare activities, goodwill and prudent trends on the other.
These are Herculean tasks like destroying the mighty kingdom of Ravan (Lanka Dahana) and establishment of the heavenly empire of Lord Ram (Rama Rajya). The Road ahead is full of challenges and testing times. But that is no excuse for sitting quietly. Let me reassure you that I will take all the dreaded difficulties and adverse effects upon me and protect you whenever you are not able to fight despite your unflinching efforts. Have you heard of the glory of Rana Sanga? This brave Rajput King used to counter all attacks on his aides in battlefields. Whenever he would see that his brave soldiers are in trouble, he would rush there in no time and bear the strike of enemys sword on his shield or even on his body. This way he saved thousands of his army men and continued his conquering battle against the invaders with eighty major wounds on his body. So rest assured, even if I am injured, I will not let you get hurt in this decisive battle of survival of human values. Well, who did not face adversities? Even the divine incarnations of Lord Ram and Krishna had ruined the devilish emperors after great efforts, facing threats of life in their human forms. But, beware! The war this time is most challenging! Here the fight is with the subtle enemy spread around in the world and even within our minds! Nobody can protect you from its attack if you are not introspective and vigilant. It is said in the scriptures that the demon Kalanemi can delude people of all age-groups and in any circumstance.
He is described in mythology as a relative and associate of Ravana. The Skanda Puran narrates that when Ravans younger brother Kumbhakaran practised difficult yoga with ascetic disciplines to gain supernatural powers, he wanted to be awake for six months with just one days sleep. But right at the moment when, upon the success of his tapa, Lord Brahma asked him for his boon Kalanemi mesmerized his mind and Kumbhakaran prayed for the contrary  sleeping for six months then waking up for one day! Thereafter he continued to sleep for six months then was awake only for one day, then again slept for six months and so on. Had he succeeded in getting his originally contemplated boon, Kumbhakaran would have blocked Ravanas ever expanding imperial designs and audacious atrocities. Similarly, when Mareech endeavored tapa to ensure a place in the swarga (heavens), Kalanemi confused him and he prayed for the boon of becoming swarnamraga (a golden deer). Well, the transformation was instant. Had he been an ordinary deer, there might have been more chances of surviving and roving freely in the scenic forests, as there would have been many other deer like it to fall prey to the wild animals or the hunters bows. But a golden deer was the star-attraction of everybody. Its life got miserable! It had to remain hidden most of the day. As described in the Ramayana, while in exile with Lord Ram, Devi Sita saw this golden deer and contrary to her nature, insisted Lord Ram to get it by all means. Lord Ram knew the truth, he could even foresee that Mareech would not be liberated of this self-wished boon turned into a curse unless killed by his bow. So he made Mareechs soul depart from the golden deer body. Mythological descriptions in the "Skand Puran" cite how Kalanemis influence ruined the giant females like Putana and Surpanakha. The former did not have any offspring and was desperate to have one so Kalanemi, in an effort to support the tyrant king Kansa, advised her to breast-feed child Krishna using some tantra when he was alone so that he would forget his real mother and start regarding Putana as his mother. Kalanemis intention was to get Krishna killed by the poisonous milk of Putana. But what happened to her? Instead of getting a child she herself lost her life. Kalanemi provoked Surpanakha (Ravanas sister) to attract Lord Ram or his brother Lakshman in the forest and get married to either of these princely looking, sober men because the Rakshas in her community were ugly giants and demonic in behavior. Suparnakha got driven by the insane desire that marrying Ram would bring her enormous wealth, respect and one day she would become his queen if she appeared as more beautiful than Sita. But all those who have read or heard Ramayana know what happened to Suparnakha! Her demonic reality and ill intention was exposed in no time in front of the divine radiance of Ram-Lakshmana and brought her nothing but utter humiliation and resentment. It was again Kalanemi who brainwashed Manthara, the maid of queen Kaikaiyee, to somehow convince the latter to insist upon making her son, Bharat, the heir of King Dasharath. Manthara thought that in this way Kaikaiyee would be pleased and would arrange Mantharas marriage with prince Bharat  thus paving the way for Manthara herself becoming a queen one day! Although Manthara succeeded in misleading Kaikaiyee initially, she soon faced the punishment of her misdeeds. None other than Kaikaiyee herself had expelled this cunning woman out of the Kingdom of Ayodhya. Kalanemi is still there (in subtle form). It acts upon the unrestrained, unvigilant minds and deludes them. It aggravates evil instincts, thoughtless ambitions and sensual passions. It diverts the dedication of the disciples and draws them away from the path shown by their noble gurus.
I can see it trying to separate many of you from me. I do not want you to be separated from me, why? Will I lose something? No, my children! What will I lose, I dont have any worldly possessions and desires so what will I lose? Minutes before this discourse, some of our boys were singing "koi satha na de to akela chal"(if there is no one to accompany you, walk alone). Indeed this is what I believe in, I will walk alone. Vaman had measured the circumference of the earth by his own steps. Rishi Parashuram had single-handedly destroyed the devilish forces and saved this earth twenty-one times! That is the power of spirituality. I also have that potential to reach the goal on my own, alone. Then why I dont want to lose you? You my disciples are like my children, you are close to my heart. How will the parents feel if someone kidnaps their beloved little children? What I am really concerned about is the threat of Kalanemi against your welfare. It has begun deluding some of you. It would brainwash your intellect and drive you to the path of decline. I am not worried about anything else, be that my death or protection of the Ashram, expansion of the mission. The mission has begun with the blessings of the Almighty. Nothing can stop its activities. Its expansion is certain like that of floodwaters. If not you, someone else will do the work. Then why do I ask you to work for the mission (of Yug Nirman)? In fact it is for your own welfare. Who gets this opportunity to participate in an epochal project inspired by divinity? God has bestowed upon you an opportunity to be the leaders. Look at what Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, Sardar Patel, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and the likes did? They led their countrymen at the right moment and achieved historic heights. Those desirous of being like these great people, marching ahead, taking the lead, becoming worthy of glorious success and honor should come forward. I am warning you to be alert and prepared against the hidden attacks and variegated influences of Kalanemi, because it poses the most dreaded threat to you. You may not realize when it will augment your intrinsic weakness, your false ego, avarice and selfish attachments and drive you off the track on one pretext or the other, which to you will appear very logical and beneficial. If it succeeds in separating you from me, from the mission, it will hurt me. It would be the pain of a parent seeing the tragic fall of his children. You all are like little boys and girls to me, whom I have taught walking; holding your hands I have taught you to write;  I have helped you to rise up and grow. In you I saw the hope and potential. How can I see you go astray and rebelling for wrong reasons? How can I see you falling or joining those who deceive or mislead the innocents in the name of spirituality and religion? You might wonder why I cant stop Kalanemi? No.
This illusory force is a creation of God  to test your spiritual maturity, intensity of devotion and strength of character. What the mythology narrates is to open your eyes. It also implies the crucial roles of Kalanemi in being the cause of what was destined to happen. For example, in case of Ramayana all that happened was in one way or the other setting the circumstances for Ravanas end. He had acquired supernormal powers by devout tapa- sadhana. It was not easy even for Kalanemi to delude him directly. So the circumstances were created in which he hijacked Sita because of his egotist resentment. This mistake eventually became the cause of devastation of this giant, arrogant, King and his demonic aides by Lord Ram. No one except Lord Ram could have destroyed him and resurrected the rule of righteousness. Kalanemis effect gets intensified in the Kaliyug because of prevailing unethical tendencies. So you have to be very careful, more disciplined, introspective and alert. You have to enlighten yourself and give light to others. Some of you might think why I am telling you to become leaders (of the new era), because now-a-days you see as leaders only those of political parties, opportunists, who keep fighting with each other, pulling each others legs You have not seen the real leaders who can bring millions of people together. You have not seen how people of diverse backgrounds may unite and work collectively. It is this power of unity of masses that brings historic changes.
The real leaders are those who mobilize, organize and guide the collective energy of millions towards the envisaged goal. Before concluding let me remind you that you are born to contribute in the divinely inspired mission of resurrecting the golden era. If you realize this and come forward to meet the call of these great moments of change, let me also reassure you that there will be no scarcity, adversity or agony in your life. Your responsibilities towards the dependents will also not suffer. I will bear all your troubles on my shoulders. Only thing you have to be cautious about is not to let illusory powers of Kalanemi drift you away from the chosen path or divert the course of your life. No parent can tolerate his progeny being robbed by dacoits or charmed by some fake gurus, or being deluded by untoward worldly attractions. Ponder over these four points and happily move ahead in your march of life with greater strength, clearer vision and better abilities. Wish you all the best.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Developments = Pujya Gurudev

Social, Cultural and Economic Developments –II

=Pt. ShriRam Sharma Acharya

                         Vedic Solutions to Modern Problems Social system The varna system devised according to aptitude and abilities of the individuals and the collective participation of people of all varnas in administrative and moral control in the Vedic society are ideal models of a sensibly democratic and civilized state. A real democracy and civilization can be achieved in human societies only if the citizens are alert, progressive, duty-bound and sensitive to the integrity and respect of self and of others. The collective existence and contribution of people of each varña to the Vedic social system can be likened to the waves of an ocean in its grandeur.

             Ashrama System: Ideal Means of Checking Unemployment! Another building block of the edifice of the prospering Vedic society was the Ashrama system: average span of 100 years of human life those days was divided into four phases, namely, Brahmcharya, Grahastha, Vanprastha and Sanyasa. The respective age groups of these four Ashramas were broadly classified as - childhood to 25 years of age, 25-50 years, 50-75 and 75 . The first phase was spent in the Gurukuls under the adept guidance of sagacious masters for cultivation and growth of moral values, training in ascetic disciplines, acquisition of knowledge, mental and intellectual development, constructive orientation and chiseled refinement and augmentation of talents, etc. The overall development of personality shaped in this phase used to produce noble citizens who would contribute to the flourishing growth of society in their Grahastha Ashrama. Depending upon his/her spiritual inclinations and purity of intrinsic tendencies, one was also allowed to remain life-long "Brahmchari" and pursue the path of sadhana and spiritual enlightenment.

                The Grahastha Ashrama pertained to one’s married life and worldly progress and enjoyment along with discharge of familial and social responsibilities. Both husband and wife together used to contribute to the happy nurturing of the family, and cultural and economic growth of the society. Resources for all round growth of the society and upkeep of the elderly and disabled persons were mobilized by the grahasthas.

                   The charities and donations of honestly earned wealth by grahasthas used to provide for sustenance of people in the other phases of life as well. Having fulfilled the duties towards the family, the grahasthas used to devote full time and efforts for the altruistic welfare of the entire human society in the Vanprastha Ashrama after attaining the age of 50 years. For this they would even move around from one place to the other and offer voluntary services of their life experiences. The Sanyasa Ashrama was spent in devotion and in attaining deeper knowledge of meaning and purpose of life.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Four Pillars of Self-Development = Pujya Gurudev

Four Pillars of Self-Development – I

= Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

Translation of a discourse by Poojya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya on Atmonnati Ke Char Adhara  delivered in 1980)

Let us begin with the collective chanting of the Gayatri Mantra:

“ Om Bhur Buva Swa, Tatsaviturvareyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi, Dhiyo Yona Prachodayat ||”

Sisters and Brothers, Our Yug Nirman mission has been organized as a laboratory. In a laboratory of chemistry, new chemicals and compounds are invented and presented to the world with a demonstration of their properties and use. Our mission is experimenting on the formulae, on the workable and viable plans for spiritual ascent and reconstruction of the world. Our Yug Nirman mission is a man-making odyssey. It is developed like a nursery to nurture good qualities, to produce enlightened talents. As you know, saplings of a variety of plants and trees are grown in a nursery and supplied to different gardens where they blossom with beautiful flowers and nutritious fruits.

Our laboratory is like an agricultural farm where varieties of crops of better health-values are cultivated based on thorough research and the beneficial knowledge and technology is distributed for wider application.
Our Yug Nirman mission is like a school for the training, development and chiseled refinement of personality. It is an academy to produce the future architects of a happier, harmonious, and integrated society. After all what is the society? It is a congregation, an ensemble of people.

 People make the society and their collective qualities and conduct shape up the character (reputation) of the society. Transformation of individuals leads to transformation of the society. Therefore, illumined ascent of men and women to a higher level of consciousness leads to transmutation of the society, thus altering the trends of time and creating a new, better, world. This is what Yug Nirman aims at. The four definite steps to achieve this lofty goal are  vyakti nirma, pariwara nirmaa, samaj nirmaa and yug nirmaa (personal, familial, social and global transformation and evolution). We firmly believe in the pledge Hama Badalenge, Yuga Badalega; Hama Sudharenge, Yuga Sudhrega (When we transform ourselves, the trends of our times will be transformed. When we reform ourselves, the world will be reformed).

 It is obvious that we cannot experiment on the entire world; all the people across the globe cannot even be reached in feasible time.
As we know, charity begins at home. So we have to begin with a small group, with our own selves, our families and friends. If all of you endeavor sincerely, the Gayatri Pariwar of our mission will become a model for others to follow.
This way, gradually the ripples of change will encompass the whole ocean. So the first and most important task before us is self-refinement, self-development. For this we will have to first identify and focus our attention on the central root that directly or indirectly governs the course of our lives.

Think and ponder over what really makes one what one is as a person? It is the force of intrinsic tendencies of the mind. The hidden desires activated by these tendencies drive the mind and generate the corresponding currents of thoughts and trigger the brain for matching actions. Although the conscious mind appears to be our decision maker and manager with the brain being its counterpart at the level of the physical body, the real ruler is our unconscious mind. The intrinsic impressions on it are so intense that these block even the voice of the soul. So, for self-refinement and self-transformation, it is essential that we first purify our inner self  especially the unconscious mind, reign in its passions and control its wayward tendencies that dominate our desires, thoughts and actions.

Transformation of the central root will transform our life in no time. Thousands of complications, adversities and problems in ones life flow from ones nature, outlook and inner personality. Negative attitude, deluded perspectives, ones own vices and infirmities and wrong thinking often invite or add to adversities and problems. It is said that one becomes what one thinks and does. Indeed, most of the present circumstances of life are the results of ones own past actions and aspirations. Well, whatever be the present situation of your life, the best you could do is to face and tackle the hardships with patience, courage and balanced reasoning. If the circumstances are favorable today, make the best use of them for a better future with farsighted vision and prudence. In any case, the process of your self-purification and improved thinking should not stop.

You might wonder what exactly is meant by self-refinement, self-transformation and self-development and how to go about it? To achieve this you will have to adopt four disciplines  samyam, swadhyaya, sadhana, and seva. These are like four essential steps of the excelsior of human life, four foundational pillars of the edifice of accomplished life, four resources of divine ascent of human self. All the fours are interwoven. We cannot expect elevating our life without anyone of them. For growing a crop, four things are crucial  seed (or sapling), soil, water and sunlight (or some source of vital elements).

 If you want to do a business, again a quadruple is a must; namely, capital, experience, demand and customer! Combination of four things  bricks, cement, iron and wood is essential for building even an ordinary house. Talent, resources, support and appropriate opportunity are required for recognizable success in this world. Paucity or deficiency on any of these four fronts hinders the success-race. What is most vital for our clinical health? Balanced food (includes water), labor, rest and excretion. Disturbance in any of these upsets the body-system. So you see! Nature has ample examples of four interdependent fundamental necessities. We cannot dream of anything worthwhile along the path of soul-evolution without accomplishing the fundamental necessities of self-ascent. We shall discuss each of them now.
(i) Samyam: Literal meaning of samyam is restraint. It is crucial for us to prevent the drainage or misuse of our powers and potentials. In general, most of us consume our mental and bodily energy in haphazard activities driven by the passions of our ever turbulent minds and sense organs. Even a so-called ordinary person may accomplish wonderful things if he checks the wastage of his capabilities and makes constructive use of his potentials.

We have to be vigilant on four fronts and observe abstinence of sense organs, control over the turbulence of mind, and optimal uses of time and worldly resources. For the samyam of the sense organs, most difficult and important is the samyam of the tongue and the sex-organs. These two are the greediest organs vulnerable to addiction. As you are all aware, the greed of the tongue disturbs our digestive system, gulps anything edible or non-edible for taste and spoils our health. The unrestrained indulgence in sex drains out our vital energy and thus weakens our physical and mental strength. Unbridled use of tongue in speech invites animosity and insult. One cannot think of any notable progress or even having a healthy and hearty life for a long time without restraining these sense organs. There is hardly any moment in a day from the time we get up, when our mind is void of any thought. But what kind of thoughts? Most often these are hazy flashes of auto-wandering of our mind in its world of ever-new desires or abrupt imaginations and retrieval of memory as per egotist impulses. Anger, excitation, depression, etc are all offshoots of an unstable and wayward mind. I don't have to say much on how important it is to have good mental concentration. Be that study, writing, research, focused use of any skill or art, everything requires thorough mental engrossment for success.

Even the daily chores can't proceed smoothly unless our mind is calm and stable to some extent. Success in mental control and constructive channelization of thoughts opens up the doors to all-conquering win-win achievements along any chosen walk of life. Time is the most precious resource gifted by Nature to us. But we spend most of it in sleeping or in laziness. We shun hard work and don't do things in a planned systematic manner. When there is some pressure or something of our immediate interest, we get over-enthusiastic and spend all the time in one particular task. This is an extreme, which often burns out our energy or puts us under stress. And, the moment the pressure or interest is gone we just slip back to the other extreme  become dull and aimless; don't even care for how our time is flying in haphazard activities, arbitrary thoughts and daydreaming. Look at the lives of those who have attained success in some field of life. You will find one thing in common  prudent management of time. Equally important is the adept use of available resources. Money happens to be a vital resource on materialistic fronts of life. But unless utilized cautiously, it only encourages addictions, luxury driven life-style leading to a variety of physical and mental health problems; extravagant show-off, which in one form or the other, invites jealousy, anxiety or threats of burglary etc. Those who are not wealthy need to be more careful, as every penny of their hard earned money is important. Those who have substantial amounts for fulfilling basic necessities and duties should invest the remainder wisely in projects that help many others in a viable manner and generate more wealth for wider use.

Industriousness, planned budgeting, and thoughtful use of money is the secret of prosperity. Assiduity and controlled use of resources also lend essential support in ones efforts of self-restraint of sense organs and are therefore important for self-dependence and self-development.

(ii) Swadhyaya: Swadhyaya is a wonderful method of purifying the mind and righteous molding of the thoughts and attitude. Our attitude and thoughts are expressions of what we have accumulated in the mind. The activities around us, the nature and conduct of the near and dear ones, the ambience we are exposed to or what we have been experiencing, learning or grasping, knowingly or unknowingly via the automatic process of nature, continuously create subtle impressions on our mind. This accumulation, together with the consequences of what we have been desiring, feeling, thinking and doing remain inscribed in the unconscious mind life after life. What we have inherited from the earlier lives and what has been assimilated so far in the present life accounts for our sanskaras (intrinsic impressions and tendencies). Unless we make an extra effort, our outlook and thoughts and hence our persona is shaped up by our sankaras and our present ambience and training. Swadhyaya is an attempt to choose an enlightened aura of influence, superior ambience for our mind. How? Swadhayaya literally means self-study. It deals with the study of ones own self (ones aspirations, thoughts, attitude and conduct) in the light of elevated thoughts of enlightened personalities. How will you study yourself unless you have a guiding measure for comparison? Why will you study yourself unless there is a motivation and an aim to do that? What is your aim? Self-ascent. What will inspire you for this? The company of those who have achieved it. It is human nature to compete with, to copy, or to follow others  especially the more influential ones around. This is why parents are advised to maintain good conduct in front of the children. This is why you are advised to choose your friends carefully. If you are in the inspiring company of great personalities, you are bound to be motivated to improve and illumine yourself, to rise and experience the fulfilling and glorifying horizons of life.
The present times and environment of life are such that more often than not they encourage and aggravate our negative tendencies, sensual passions and vices. Even our relatives and friends often divert us from the path of self-ascent. They do so because of their ignorance. For them, likewise for most people around, following the popular trends, viz., earning money, comforts, higher worldly status and power are the major goals in one way or the other. They would even criticize, hinder and oppose ones efforts for self-restraint, simply because they are not familiar with such things, or, because these do not fit into the common framework of life-styles they have adopted or desire for, or they don't see any immediate gain in attempts of self-control. Our own tendencies are also not much different from them so we also get attracted by the suggestions of people around us. Then what do we do? Should we let ourselves be entangled in the vicious cycle of downward trends? Certainly not! As you all know it is the nature of water to flow downwards. Water naturally flows, by the law of pressure-gradient, from higher to lower level. Additional force (e.g. by the motor of the pump) of higher magnitude is required to draw it upwards. Similarly, if you want to see the light of knowledge, if you want to broaden your attitude, if you want to rise beyond the insane or wrong trends of the present time, if you want to cross the barriers of your present circumstances and ambience and want to excel in the righteous sense, you will have to put in extra efforts with unflinching resolution. How will you do that? From where will you get the power to move ahead against the resistance of the popular customs, against the downward pull of surrounding ambience and against your own convictions and habits? Who will give you adept guidance and support for it? One possibility to annual the negative is by assimilating the positive with greater intensity. Satsang (good company) of great personalities, saints and sages is most effective and practical method of doing this. But how often do we get this opportunity to attend their discourses or to meet and discuss them? Even if their discourses and meetings are organized in your neighborhood, sometimes, you may not be free in those particular hours. Then? Therefore, swadhaya is the only means which is feasible in the present circumstances and which can serve the purpose of satsang. As balanced food and regular physical exercise is necessary for bodily health, regular swadhyaya is necessary for mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. It is no less important than any devotional practice. Swadhyaya is given utmost importance in the science of spirituality. It is stated in some Vedic scriptures that  a person is equivalent to a beastly human on the day when he/she does not do swadhyaya. As washing and scrubbing is necessary for the cleanliness of the clothes, bathing is essential for the hygiene of the body, similarly, swadhyaya is necessary for the purification of the mind. The untoward accumulations in the mental field are cleared out and elevating sanskaras are strengthened by the trenchant thoughts and inspirations induced by swadhyaya. It lays the foundation for realization of Inner Light.         (To be concluded in next issue).

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Respect your ancestors = Pujya Gurudev

Respect your ancestors – They will shower blessings on you

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Noble souls always do great tasks and spend their entire life in the service of others. They help others as long as they are in the mortal body and continue to guide the deserving people even after relinquishing their physical body. We can see innumerable people benefit from the guidance provided by such great souls.

When noble people leave their bodies, they reach the ‘Pitra loka’. These ancestors provide guidance and advice to deserving people. Descriptions about such incidents can be found in many great works of literature. We get a detailed analysis of such incidents from books like ‘Mysteries of Unexplained’ and ‘Invisible Helpers’. In our country, we can see that the invisible help provided by noble souls gets published quite frequently. Some souls choose a worthy instrument and complete their incomplete tasks through him/her and also give him/her the entire credit for doing the work.

In this context, one incident of a soul offering such help is quite exciting. This is an incident that occurred in the year 1967. There was a Victorian style mansion on the shores of river Hudson. That mansion was believed to be haunted by ghosts and nobody dared to live in it. A lady named Mrs. Eckle bought that house and began to live in it along with her family. One night, she heard the footsteps of many subtle-bodied souls moving around in the house. Eckle was ready to run in fear. But the ghosts assured her that their intention was not to frighten her. Eckle asked about their introduction and the answer she received was astounding. They replied that they were her ancestors and have deliberately inspired her to live in that house in order to complete an incomplete task. They told Eckle about many facts of her previous life and she began see the truth in their words. They helped Eckle in several instances and were eager to help her in any kind of dire circumstances.

In Brazil, there was a farmer’s son by name Erigo who had gained immense fame in the field of ‘Occult Medicine’. When he was studying in school, he used to complain of headaches and they proved to be incurable by any means. Some disembodied spirits who were healers in their previous lives used to visit him in his dreams and suggest remedies for his ailment, but Erigo ignored them. This continued for five years. One day he decided to ardently request these spirits about his health condition. He met the spirit of a doctor named Edolfo Fritz who was killed during the First World War. That German doctor was a kind-hearted person and never refused help to the needy. He wanted to continue this good work using Erigo as the medium. He told Erigo that his headache would be cured only when he started serving people suffering from diseases.

Edolfo’s spirit asked Erigo to operate on his ailing neighbour. That patient was suffering from lung cancer and did not have many days to live. Erigo performed the surgery as directed by Edolfo’s spirit and the patient survived and became healthy. This was nothing less than a miracle. From then on, surgery became Erigo’s daily schedule and continued from year 1956 till the end of his life. In 1963, a team of renowned medical experts came to investigate on his method of curing the people. As a part of the experiment, 1000 people were called out of which 505 patients had referral cards from their respective doctors. Erigo just touched the afflicted part of the patient with a knife and the person would get cured. This continued for all the 505 patients. This entire episode was recorded in a video. He could perform this impossible and miraculous task with the help of the spirit of Edolfo.

There are several such incidences that have occurred in our own country. There was a middle-aged illiterate farmer in a village in Rajasthan. He was an ordinary god-fearing farmer who had not done any special sadhanas. One day, when he went out to the lake to take bath, he fell down, broke his skull and blood spurted out like a fountain. He was left in an unconscious state for several hours. When he was admitted to the hospital and regained consciousness, he spoke of things that left everyone dumbfounded. He said that he came in contact with several great souls when he was unconscious. Those souls had come out for a stroll and came to help when they saw him in an unconscious state. Among them, one of the spirits told him that it wanted to compose an occult book and wanted to get it done through him as a medium.

The uneducated village farmer readily agreed to do it. With the inspiration of the exalted disembodied spirit, he composed a book on Saraswati. This occult book contained mantras and their method of sadhana was so secret that it was impossible to write it without the guidance of a special adept. How did all this become possible? How could an uneducated farmer compose such a masterpiece?

There are many things in this universe which cannot be rationally explained. Souls of ancestors are present and if we show due respect to them, they will shower their grace on us. All we have to do is to increase our worthiness. All that is necessary is to be empathetic to others’ sufferings and needs and rise above our selfishness. In such a case, noble souls desirous of serving humanity will use us as their mediums and shower us with the boon of being helpful to others.

Thanks GOD, Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Yogic Therapy = Pujya Gurudev

Yogic Therapy of Peptic Ulcer

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

Yoga Therapy – 8 Yogic Therapy of Peptic Ulcer In this series of Yogic Therapy we now present the aetiology and yogic cure of Peptic Ulcer. This disease crops up due to chronic hyper-acidity and manifests as burning sensation in the stomach. This is a wound which can surface in any region like the lower end of esophagus, stomach wall, or on the anterior end of duodenum near pyloric valve. The patient generally complaints of indigestion and constant stomach ache. Most of the symptoms of Peptic Ulcer appear like the symptoms of indigestion and hence diagnosis becomes difficult. This is diagnosed by means of Fiber optic Gastro-scope after making the patient drink Barium solution.
In theraputic science, peptic ulcer has been classified into two types –
1.Gastric ulcer – which occurs in the lining of the stomach.
2.Duodenal ulcer- which occurs in the anterior portion of the intestine.
Gastric ulcer – The main symptoms of the disease are – Intense piercing pain in the centre of chest immediately after eating. A little pressure on the upper abdomen causes pain. Internal bleeding of ulcer may lead to blood vomits. This disease is generally seen in the people who lead a highly competitive life and face recurrent and stressful ups and downs in life. This type of people has less tolerance for stress and disappointments in life, and in order to overcome that, they depend on cigarette smoking and alcohol. A victim of ulcer is embodiment of anxiety. He is tossed about in the whirlpool of worries, resultants of success and failure, show of capability in field of work, diseases, loyalty etc. Meaningless worry is the root cause of the disease. Afraid of the pain caused by eating, the patient loses appetite and this leads to loss of weight. This state is the result of chronic and recurrent gastritis. The disease is aggravated due to rich, heavy, spicy food, alcohol and smoking.

Duodenal ulcer- The anterior end of the esophagus where the acidic food reaches through the pyloric valve is called duodenum. The disease is caused by the injury in the membrane of this part. The pain related to this is felt in the centre of stomach. This pain is intense in the empty stomach and reduces after eating. This symptom is opposite of the symptoms of gastric ulcer. The patient keeps eating constantly to quench the pain, which in turn leads to increase in weight. Patient’s sleep gets interrupted in the early hours, as, by this time the food gets digested. Drinking milk at that time gives relief, as milk not only neutralizes the acid, it also soothes the lining of the esophagus and stomach. The causes of ulcer – This is a psychosomatic disease. In individuals who are constantly under mental stress or fear, there is a pressure on the nerves of the brain. This pressure stimulates sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. This stimulation induces the secretion of acid in the stomach, which in turn enhances the activity of the stomach and induces cramps. This process continues all the time.

In the absence of food in the stomach the quantity of acid increases; this in turn enhances the acidity. Chronic smoking, alcohol and rich oily food enhance the stimulation of the nerves. This results in frequent indigestion and excitement and swelling in the lining of the stomach. When this inflicted lining comes in contact with highly acidic gastric juice (hydrochloric acid and pepsin), the burning of the lining injures it, causing inflation and pain. The enhanced burning of acid, with the decreased resistance of the lining, causes the injury by destroying the lining. The pain of ulcer and related complexes – The injury of peptic ulcer appears as a notch/groove in the lining of the stomach, under which, the sensory nerves are spread like live wires. As the protective lining has already got abrased, the nerves come into direct contact with the acid and cause burning sensation and pain. When this injury gets aggravated and pierces the lining of the stomach it leads to perforation in the stomach. Then the acid and the food spreads to the germ free peritoneal cavity. If the ulcer of the stomach perforates a blood vessel, it paves way to Hemorrhage. This ruptured blood vessel causes excessive bleeding. This condition could be fatal if surgical intervention is not available immediately.

Treatment of ulcer – Medication does provide some temporary relief. Allopathic medicines prescribed in this case are predominantly antacids. Some Ayurvedic medicines like Mulhati, Anvala powder, Avipattikar powder etc. are especially beneficial. But any medicine can provide only temporary relief. Chronic disease, which is beyond cure, can be corrected only by surgical intervention, in which the affected part of the stomach is surgically removed. Yogic cure of ulcer – Complete rest and change of environment are the basic prerequisites for a fruitful yogic cure of Ulcer. The patient must be totally freed from the responsibilities and work related tensions. Patient must have sound sleep and undertake only non-tiring chores according to his wishes. Asanas – For the first two weeks patient should practice Pavanmuktasan Part – 1 and 2. Next two weeks he should practice Suryanamaskar. Shashankasan and Shavasan are also very much beneficial.

The Procedure of Suryanamaskar – Surya namaskar is a combination of 12 asanas.

1st pose – With the feet together stand upright, hands in the Namaskar mudra in front of the chest. Relax the whole body and chant the Mantra ‘OM’.
2nd Pose - Hasta uttanasan – While inhaling, stretch both arms above the head. Keep the arms separated, shoulder width apart. Bend the head, arms and upper trunk backward without applying force.
3rd pose – Pada Hastasan – While exhaling, bend forward. While bending go on stretching the arms towards the ground and place them on the left and right side of the feet, the forehead touching the knees, which should remain straight. . Do not apply force. Knees should not bend.
4th pose - Ashwa sanchalasan – While inhaling stretch the left leg back, as far as possible. Right leg should be folded but the sole of the foot should be fixed in place. Arms should be straight. The weight of the body should be supported by the left sole, left knee and the right toes. In the final position bend the head backward waist in shape of bow; and gaze should be fixed upward.
5th pose - Parvatasan – Straighten the right leg and place it near left sole. Raise the hips upward to the maximum, head should be brought between the arms and in the final position legs and arms should be straight. In this position press the heels to the floor.
6th pose - Ashtanga namaskar – Inhaling, bring the body parallel to the ground. First place the knees on the ground, then the chest and thereafter the forehead. Stomach should be slightly raised from the ground.
7th pose - Bhujangasan – Lower the buttocks and hips to the floor. Straightening the elbows, arch the back and push the chest forward into the cobra pose. Bend the head back and direct the gaze upward to the eyebrow centre. The thighs and hips remain on the floor and arms support the trunk. This is the final stage of bhujangasan.
8th pose - Parvatasan – This stage is a repeat of position 5.
9th pose - Ashwa sanchalan – This stage is same as position 4.
10th pose - Pada hastasan – This position is a repeat of position 3.
11th pose - Hasta uttanasan – This stage is the repeat of position 2.
Pose 12 – Pranamasan (prayer pose) – This is the final position and is the same as position 1.

Repeat the whole cycle. Thus these 24 poses together complete one complete cycle of Surya namaskar. The procedure of Shavasan – Lie flat on the back with the arms about 15 cms away from the body, palms facing upward. Move the feet slightly apart to a comfortable position and close the eyes. Relax the whole body and stop all physical movements. Become aware of the natural breath and allow it to become rhythmic and relaxed. Observe the breath and count the breath (1) In, (1) Out; (2) In, (2) out; and continue the count for few minutes. If the mind wanders bring it back to the count. Pranayama – Bhramari and Nadishodhan pranayama bestow peace. Practice these daily.

The procedures for the above have been given in previous issues. Shatkriya – After sometime Neti and Laghu Shankha prakshalan can be performed. The patients of ulcer should not perform Kunjal kriya. Shithilikaran – To get relief from the stress and tension practice yoganidra everyday. Karmayoga – To take up a work without the cutthroat competitive spirit and to do it for fulfilling the objective is called Karmayoga. To act with a selfishly competitive motive paves way to anxiety and other mental aberrations. But the actions performed with full concentration for the achievement of higher objectives do not lead to any problems. Cutting the wood, cleaning, gardening and selfless service for noble causes are highly beneficial for ulcer patients.

Karmayoga augments psychological energy, relaxes the body and mind and paves the way for expression of creativity; and all these are beneficial for the patient. Food – In the beginning patient must take only fruits and milk. These heal the injury quickly. Alternatively, boiled vegetables, soup, Kichadi, milk and simple fruits can be taken. Fried, spicy, rich food, smoking and alcohol must be strictly shunned. Practicing the above in daily life is strongly recommended. Continuity is the basic condition of any therapy. Therefore if the above are practiced in daily life on a continuous basis the patient can derive adequate benefits. In the next series of Yoga Therapy Gastroenteritis. (To be continued)

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma