Why Worship a Guru?

The spirit of the festival Diwali dwells in lighting diyas (earthen lamps), which symbolises the inner awakening or enlightenment. The spirit of the festival of colours i.e. Holi, lies in spreading harmony. The spirit of Christmas lies in sharing be it gifts or heartfelt wishes for others. The spirit of Eid lies in charity. Similarly, the spirit of the most auspicious festival for all disciples across the world i.e. Guru Purnima or Guru Puja lies in expressing the purest and reverential feelings of love and gratitude towards the Guru. Also, this festival marks the dawn of a spiritual new year where disciples embark upon with new enthusiasm, resolutions and rejuvenated spirits on the path of devotion.

The festival finds its origin in the era of the great sage Ved Vyasa. It is celebrated every year on Ashadh Punam, the day this legendary figure was born, who classified the four Vedas, wrote 18 Puranas, the Brahm Sutras and uttered Mahabharata, which was penned by Lord Ganesha Himself. Through his intense literary classification and compositions of the great epics and scriptures, he opened the portals of the esoteric world of spirituality for the inquisitives. He also, following the eternal Vedic regime, initiated his disciples into the eternal science of Brahm Gyan. In the honour of such divine personage and to worship the Perfect Master or the Sadguru of the time, who by bestowing the same eternal knowledge of Brahm Gyan ushers the disciple towards his ultimate blissful destination, this festival is celebrated with great exuberance and devotion.

Verily, worshipping has been equated with Gods and deities residing in the heavenly abode. Most of us all through our lives have seen our elders or have ourselves bowed in front of their immortal power. Why then this tradition of worshipping someone with a physical garb, living within the brackets of the mortal world surfaced in the annals of our glorious history? In other words, why do we worship a Guru?

A bird's eye view of all the Vedas, scriptures and texts of wisdom would easily provide us with the fact that the Guru is the ultimate power in both worlds. He is the Living GOD– Generator, Operator and Destroyer of the life of a disciple. He amalgamates in himself all the three roles i.e. the role of a creator, protector and exterminator for his disciples. Therefore, in our Vedic tradition we worship the Guru before anyone else.                                                                          

Let's analyse all the three roles of a Guru on the basis of the scriptural, psychological and historical evidences.

THE ROLE OF A CREATOR

As per the Vedic wisdom and our sages, there are two births of a human being. The first one is through his mother's womb and the second one is through the spiritual womb of his Guru.

Our Vedas elucidate the same–

Aacharya Upanyamano Brahmcharinam
Krunute Garbhmanth
(Atrahva Veda- 11:3:5:3)

Meaning, Acharya (Guru) at the time of Upanayan Sanskaar (bestowing Brahm Gyan) bears his disciple in his spiritual womb.

Just as a new life gets initiated in the womb of a mother, similarly, the initiation of a disciple into Brahm Gyan under the patronage of a Sadguru marks his becoming a Dwij that is 'being born again'. This second birth is considered much more glorified and superior than his first birth. Reason being, the first birth culminates in the mortuary whereas the second birth culminates in eternity. Also, the second birth sets him free from the vicious cycle of transmigration and eventually leads him to reside in the ultimate bliss. Moreover, as after taking birth from the mother's womb we enter this mortal world, similarly, after being born through the spiritual womb of a Guru, we enter the inner-immortal world where we come face to face with the wonderful reign of the Supreme Being. Jesus Christ also proclaimed– “Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

When the mother of cowherd Chandragupta confronted Acharya Chanakya, who wanted to take her son along with him to the University of Takshashila, she said– 'You can't take my son; I have given birth to him. I bore him in my womb for nine months. He is my dream.' Acharya Chanakya humbly replied– 'I have done his Upanayan Sanskaar (bestowed him with Brahm Gyan). I too have borne him in my spiritual womb. He might be a dream for you, but only I can translate that dream into reality. You have given birth to a probability, but only under my spiritual wings it will become a possibility.' History stands witness how an ordinary boy who wandered on the streets as a cowherd, under the patronage of Acharya Chanakya was transformed into the King of the Kings– Chandragupta Maurya, who unified the nation and established the kingdom of righteousness.

Hence, a Guru like a spiritual mother not just brings forth his disciple in the cosmic world of eternity, but also brings out the best in him.

THE ROLE OF A PROTECTOR

After giving birth, a mother is very protective about her child especially when he is an infant. She always stays close to her child, guards him and watches over him. Similarly, a Guru, after initiating the disciple into the realm of the spiritual world does not abandon him. Rather, he always stays close to him. A disciple, who abides by all the commandments of his Guru, always feels his presence around him. He feels an all-time inner-connection with his Guru, which eventually strengthens with time. However, a mother can protect and guard her child only in this life; but a Guru is such a protector who shields and guards his disciple even beyond life. An incident from the life of Lahiri Mahashya when he met his Guru Mahavtari Babaji for the first time, in a cave on the Dronagiri Mountain, verily stands evidence to this.

When Mahavtari Baba gently struck on Lahiri's forehead, he retrieved everything about his previous birth. He writes, “…the saint approached and struck me gently on the forehead. At his magnetic touch, a wondrous current swept through my brain, releasing the sweet seed-memories of my previous life. 'I remember!' My voice was half-choked with joyous sobs. 'You are my guru Babaji, who has belonged to me always! Scenes of the past arise vividly in my mind; here in this cave I spent many years of my last incarnation!' As ineffable recollections overwhelmed me, I tearfully embraced my master's feet. 'For more than three decades I have waited for you here– waited for you to return to me!' Babaji's voice rang with celestial love. 'You slipped away and vanished into the tumultuous waves of life beyond death. The magic wand of your karma touched you, and you were gone! Though you lost sight of me, never did I lose sight of you! I pursued you over the luminescent astral sea where the glorious angels sail. Through gloom, storm, upheaval, and light I followed you, like a mother bird guarding her young. As you lived out your human term of womb-life, and emerged a babe, my eye was ever on you. When you covered your tiny form in the lotus posture under the Nadia sands in your childhood, I was invisibly present! Patiently, month after month, year after year, I have watched over you, waiting for this perfect day. Now you are with me!’

Moreover, in the role of a protector, a Guru also shields his disciple at the psychological and emotional levels. A Guru, with his pure love and faith, gives his disciple a strong foundational support, upon which a disciple resolutely treads the path of his life while making the correct decisions. His divine love shields him from the negative effects of the feigned material love of the world.

Swami Vivekananda often quoted– '…ever since our first meeting, it was the Master (Ramakrishna Paramhansa) alone who had faith in me– no one else, not even my own mother and brothers. That faith and that love of his have bound me to him forever. The Master was the only one who knew how to love and who really loved. Worldly people only feign love to gratify their own self-interest.'

Indeed, it is the selfless love and prowess of a Perfect Master, who as a divine protector guides and shields his disciple (at all the three levels– physical, psychological and spiritual) from all impending dangers.

THE ROLE OF AN EXTERMINATOR

Lord Shiva in the Vedic texts has been referred to as the God of destruction. It is not mere destruction but 'constructive destruction'. To understand the concept of constructive destruction, in contemporary parlance, we may cite an example of personal computers. With the arrival of personal computers, the economy significantly profited without much economic upheaval. It raised the productivity and ushered in significant value for many. But at the same time, computers killed the market for typewriters. Typewriters became obsolete and organisations investing in them certainly lost out. Similarly, the market for all the small gadgets– like, MP3 players, point-and-shoot cameras, wrist watches, voice recorders and calculators got swallowed by all-in-one efficient Smartphones. For the development and growth, constructive destruction, i.e. eradication of smaller insignificant things holds great importance in the business world.

In the spiritual world as well, constructive destruction is done by the Guru in the life of his disciple. Our scriptures proclaim, 'Gururdevo Maheshwaraha'– A Guru like Lord Shiva brings in constructive destruction in the life of his disciple. For his growth and development, he too exterminates and eradicates all the obsolete, redundant and unwanted thoughts from his mind and ushers him towards a more significant and supreme goal of his life. This constructive destruction facilitates the self-development of a disciple, which eventually helps him climb the ladder to success in life.

A Guru characteristically plays the role of a Generator, Operator and Destroyer (GOD) for his disciple and leads him all the way to eternity from mortality. Hence, worshipping the Guru holds a great importance in the life of a disciple. Therefore, we being fortunate to be the disciples of the Perfect Spiritual Master of the time, H.H. Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, let us celebrate this most auspicious festival with great enthusiasm and devotion.

Worship a Guru

PEACE IN LIFE

Satguru is the greatest teacher. He teaches the disciple of how to pray, what and when to ask for. He trains the devotee to pray during happy times as well as the sad ones, as only a prayer acts as a safe deposit that comes handy in difficult times.

When hearts become dry, hope hides away, love gets vanished, and sorrows saturate the minds, only one escape remains – PRAYER by a sincere heart. Hands together, eyes closed, focused on the beloved, a devotee prays, with a humble heart, asking Him for none other than the Lord Himself. For the devotee understands, the moment light pervades, darkness must instantaneously depart. Therefore, asking Lord for His light and love, devotee can be certain of ridding all sorrows, obtaining peace of mind, and filling the heart with nectars of love and devotion.

Devotion is conquered with the lasso of prayer.  It comes in possession with the strong grip of heart-filled emotions. Even the quietest prayer presented with sincerity is heard by the Lord. Lord, in turn, grants the wish to the seeker and lightens the load of sorrows enabling love and gratitude to flow through even the minutest channels of the arid hearts. He merely doesn’t understand the words; He also accepts them and ingests them.

With the grace of His Holiness, Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, another pious monthly congregation held at Divya Dham Ashram on June 19, 2016 echoed the above evocative lessons for all devotees. As His Holiness continues to shape out great men and women even in today’s chaotic world, the timely congregation comes as a reminder in everyone’s routines. Reinforcement of Guru’s teachings and the practical applicability of the lessons is what the event accomplishes.

Devotees who attend the program regularly feel immensely blessed to have received the golden opportunity of being in the vicinity of Satguru, His teachings, and His love. Contributing to the cause of World Peace, the selfless volunteers seek the chance of offering their time and service.

for more information visit to : PEACE IN LIFE

Goodness: A precious ornament of your persona

Simple living, respectable life, camaraderie, and congenial association with people are the pillars of a successful life. It’s not wrong to say that the sustenance of all these driving forces in one’s life rests on one’s perceptual attitude and temperament. That’s exactly where the role of goodness comes into the picture. An individual whose personality is beautified with the ornaments of generosity, benevolence and tender-heartedness sets an example for others. For such individuals, life itself becomes peaceful and brings satisfaction at every stage.

While some people are naturally blessed with the art of goodness, some acquire such positive qualities with time. Our saints have always propagated their teachings on spirituality, which is regarded as the ‘Science of Sciences’. They preach that spirituality plays a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s perception and attitude towards life. The Founder and Head of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj ji is the Perfect Master of the time who underscores that spirituality enables one to rise above one’s vices and that it nourishes one’s mindset with good thoughts. There begins the phase of transformation that elevates one’s level of interpreting things.

No wonder, the treasure of spirituality opens many avenues where a person can explore hidden aspects of his character and personality.

Well, there are also certain points that we need to ponder over.

Show a thankful gesture

We are often filled with complaints and grievances and this hampers our ability to see positive sides of many things in life. This shows that we often forget the fact that there might be people deprived of the luxuries that we enjoy in our lives.

So, one must express thankfulness to God at every moment and find happiness in what one has.

Mingle with people

Be it our college life, corporate environment, or a fitness centre where we visit daily, we come across people from all walks of life at every place. But we might get along well with only some of them. Does it mean that we build a feeling of dislike for those whom we couldn’t mingle with? Certainly, no. It’s good to be polite with everyone. Nevertheless, the situation demands leaving the company of a person whose mannerism seems odd to you.

Anger... the biggest enemy

A small issue, when not handled peacefully, worsens the situation. Anger is a major impediment that weakens your ability to comprehend the situation and therefore, you might end up with unfavourable consequences. So, learn to control and manage a situation with patience.

Track your life events

You must have learnt about writing a Diary Entry in your school. Put it into practice and start maintaining such a record that is updated regularly with your emotions and sentiments. Write whatever good you do in a day or even if you make mistakes. Read the entries to sustain the goodness of your deeds mentioned in it as well as to rectify the mistakes.

That was a walk-through of some key points. So, set off your journey of change and stay away from negativities like ego, hatred, jealousy etc. Unveil your goodness and become a source of inspiration for others as well.

for more information visit to : DJJS

DJJS Ram Katha, Guided the Path to Righteousness

Lord Ram’s entire persona inspires to follow the righteousness as each part of his character puts him in the category of an idol. He was not only the epitome of an ideal man, a son, a brother, a friend, a husband, a father and a king but also a veteran manager. In words of HIS Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj ji, Lord Ram is Right Action Man (RAM). According to Maharaj Ji, a true devotee, who is always following his master’s commands, can imbibe the invaluable qualities of Ram. Just like Vibhishana, who stood for righteousness in spite of the Ravana’s (his brother) numerous bad words, a true disciple’s faith never wavers.

In order to encourage congregators towards righteousness and to make them understand the supreme philosophy of Lord Ram, Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS)- a non- government, non-profit and a leading spiritual organization, head and founded by His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, conducted a seven days program of Shri Ram Katha from May 8th -14th,2016, at Latur, Maharashtra.

The program initiated with the devotional prayer at the lotus feet of Lord Ram. DJJS extended warm welcome to all guests, preachers, volunteers and congregators. Then after, a series of melodious bhajans composed with words of wisdom and tuned with extreme devotion, just made people engaged in the divinity of environment.

The spiritual discourser of the program- Sadhvi Praveena Bharti Ji, disciple of Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, cited many profound examples of Lord Ram’s actions and words. A devotee with traits of unshakable faith, extreme patience, perseverance, complete devotion and discipline, can definitely reach to the Almighty. Just like, Vibhishana was firm and patient to the core even after facing the wrath of his brother Ravana, was ready to accept the death but never let his faith waver. He even sacrificed his mighty family. To such exceptional devotees, Lord Smiles and say-“I am extremely pleased to have you as my devotee; your dedication is the most precious. By saving you from negativities, I not only serve my duties, but also take the responsibility of saving individuals with great values.”

Sadhvi Ji also stated that to reach at the pinnacle of righteousness and devotion, one needs to have divine knowledge and grace of a perfect master since these traits are not easy to acquire or imbibe. DJJS, along with spreading the message, also provides the technique of acquiring the right path which is ‘Brahm Gyan’. Many devotees learnt this technique, thereby taking first step to the divinity.

for more information visit to : DJJS

Don't Bother About Taunts of Others!

Don't Bother About Taunts of Others!

The person responsible for making France one of the great nations in the world was none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. When Napoleon was a small child, his mother sent him to a school in another town, though the family was not very rich. Napoleon had to study in a small place. The room in which he stayed was not in a good locality. The neighbourhood was full of quarrelsome, teasing, mischievous people who tried to let him down and make fun of him. When he sat for studies, a lady would trouble him calling him a bookworm and that he would die in the room with his head in the books one day.

Napoleon's mother used to write him a letter every week. Once, she wrote– 'Son, time is waiting for you to emerge as some useful personality. So, take advantage of the time and grab every opportunity of the student life. This is a formative period. If you miss the opportunity, you will have to cry for your whole life because then nothing would be left. That is why make right use of every minute you have at your disposal.'

Napoleon used to read the letters and get fresh inspiration from them. He, thus ignored the people who made fun of him and concentrated totally on his studies. One day, some students along with that lady stood in front of his small room and made a lot of fun of him. They taunted him saying that he is a termite… He does not know anything except licking books…  He is a useless fellow who does not go out, does not attend any party or dinner… who does not know anything about the world...

Napoleon listened to all those remarks quietly. Meanwhile, he received a letter from his mother. His mother had written– 'Son, your father died when you were a very small child. At that time, I was the only one to pray for you and to see dreams for you to be realised. If you forget your books and goals, what will happen to those dreams? You would be forced to bow in front of the world all through your life. On the other hand, if you would become someone worthwhile, the world would salute you and take your name with honour. Therefore, you should not let your valuable time go in vain.' And, while concluding her letter, she wrote to him that he was born in France; and, since his father was no more, so France itself was his father. Therefore, he should make every effort and bring glory to his great nation.

Napoleon, during his student life, took healthy food and did regular exercise. And, it is a tested formula that healthy food, right exercise, and a cheerful disposition keep the body and mind healthy and alert. Napoleon studied well. He topped in every class. After completing his studies, he became the supreme commander of the French Army and took France to the pinnacle of glory.

One day, while riding on a horse along with his soldiers, Napoleon went to the locality where he used to study in a small room. The French police surrounded him for security purposes. People from the neighbourhood crowded around him. Napoleon was sitting on the horse. Meanwhile, the lady who used to make fun of him came there. Her name was Helena. She was old by now. Napoleon asked her about the boy who studied in that small room. She told Napoleon that he was a bookworm and must have died somewhere. Who will know of him now? He was only seen when he went for jogging and exercise. Otherwise, he kept sitting day and night inside the room and never lifted his head from his books. He may not have perhaps raised his head to even see the world.

Napoleon smiled and told the woman that the same boy was sitting on the horse in front of her as the supreme commander of the French Army. His achievement was the result of one-pointed concentration on his goal and his determination to attain it! If he had bothered about the world, then, he would not be known to the world as one of the greatest military leaders who revolutionised the military organisation and training in France.

for more information visit to: DJJS

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

  Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

On the bank of Kshipra river, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, during the epic celebration of Kumbh Mahaparv, Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan holds a mega event consisting of three kathas, Rudrashtadhyai, Vilakshan Yoga Shivir, Ayurvedic health camp, and much more. In the series ofkathas, the primary occasion, Shrimad Bhagwat Katha, was held from April 24th to April 30th, 2016.

Katha orator, Sadhvi Aastha Bharti Ji is a world-renowned narrator and purveyor who does not only theorize the holy katha but also indicates towards the practical aspect of the tale. Sadhvi Ji, the daughter disciple of His Holiness Sarv Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, the head and founder of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, has experienced the same herself practically. She proclaimed that all narration in any holy scripture known to mankind has a practical aspect that can only be perceived with the guidance of a true master.

Amongst some key attendees was respectable Morari Bapu who kindly granted his presence as well as paid reverence to kathavyas Sadhvi Ji. In addition, Sant Sh. Mahesh Guru Ji from Prem Yamuna Sewa Trust, Ujjain, Sh. Rakesh Ji Dagor, BJP-Sambhagiya Sangathan Mantri Sambhag, Ujjain, Sh. Santosh Ji Verma, Atirikt Jiladish Jila Ujjain, Sh. Jagdish Ji Kulmi, Chief Manager – Narmada-Jabuva Gramin Bank, Ujjain all appeared as chief guests at the grand event.

All spiritual manuscripts, religious texts, and divine contents, point towards one eternal law: God can be seen.

Similar is the declaration in Bhagwat Gita where Lord Krishna showed HIS true form to Arjuna amidst the battlefield. Thus Arjuna, a seeker and a devotee of the Lord, realized the practical aspect of all principles imparted by Lord Krishna, thereby epitomizing the principal of ‘Seeing is believing’.

Sadhvi Aastha Bharti Ji enunciated that His Holiness is revealing the same experience today through which she, along with countless beneficiaries, have seen God. Brahm Gyan is the scientific technique of experiencing the light of Lord within; the sole proof is that any seeker of the Lord can experience it as well.

Amongst a current of sadhus, religious ascetics, and yogis, how can one identify a true Guru? Sadhvi Ji explained, citing the Bhagwat Gita, a true Guru such as the Jagad Guru, Lord Krishna, is the one who can enable one to fathom the true form of the God within. A perfect master does not limit the seeker to the boundaries of traditions and rituals but takes him to the abode of Lord Himself.

The Katha enriched the audience from all fronts of life with the true message behind the Holy Scripture instilling the quest to know God beyond the rites and customs set by society.

for more information visit to : Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

Spirituality – The soul of economy

          Spirituality

The burning question was raised many a millennia ago. The questioner was a seer of the Vedic times and the question was targeted at the entire humankind. The same question continued to crop up from time to time. No doubt, every society attempted to answer this question according to its dominant nature and preponderant psyche. But, did the world get a satisfactory answer to the question mouthed by sage of yesteryears? Could this answer help in establishing a flawless and stable system of economy? Or, has it led to more economic problems than actually solving them?

CAPITALISM – WEALTH BELONGS TO THE INDIVIDUAL

Capitalism as a system of economic development began in the 18th century. This century witnessed the outbreak of Industrial Revolution. Machines began to be used for bulk production. Since mass production required heavy investment of capital, therefore those who could afford and invest adequate capital-fuel reaped windfall profits. Within no time, they became the owners of huge wealth and began to dominate the economic fabric of society. This gained acceptance at the altar of underprivileged and the deprived sections of society. Owners of capital amassed more and more wealth and with it they could usurp power and position in society. This lead to the birth of capitalistic system of economy. Under this system, wealth came to be understood as a personal property belonging to the individual concerned. “Work and Earn” became the dominant ideology. Income earned became the sole property of the owner of the capital. Other factors of income-generation became irrelevant and their claim and interference in any manner whatsoever was considered unacceptable. Even state interference was ruled out. All these became accepted principles of capitalistic system of economy.

Thus, the only this answer provided by this system to the age-old question – “Whose wealth is this?”

Was that “The wealth belonged to the individual who earned it.” But, was this answer appropriate? Passage of time proved a decisive factor. Evil consequences started coming to the surface with lapse of time. The nations, which were forerunners in embracing this system, began to feel the piercing pangs of cut-throat competition. Poor became poorer. Rich became richer. Millionaires became billionaires. A few rich cornered the wealth and resources of the nation. As a result, the society witnessed extreme economic inequalities. Sky rocketing buildings alongside huts became a common sight.

How utterly ironical it was! The situation was akin to uneven circulation of blood in a living body. While some organs received blood more than required, others were deprived or received too little. Under such circumstances, what can one expect the state of the body to be? Its depreciation is certain! Deficient organs would get de-activated on being dried up. The ones with excessive blood supply would also not remain healthy. They too will decay.

In exactly the same fashion it also became the destiny of the capitalistic economy. On the one hand, the poor were deprived of the bare minimum necessities of life and total deprivation became their life’s integral part. On the other hand, rich became richer to such an extent that their coffers began to swell. As a natural consequence, vices engulfed them. Promiscuity and licentiousness became their lifestyle.

Depravity and wickedness not only descended on social fabric, but also moral values witnessed a steep fall. While the rich exploited the poor, the poor, in order to fill their bellies, stopped distinguishing between right and wrong means. In course of time, the grave shortcomings and pitfalls of the capitalistic economy led to the nations to plunge into state of utter disorderliness. Gloom descended all over the world.

The dark side of capitalism made it clear that it failed to provide a suitable answer to the age-old question. This led the world to move to a new system to run the affairs of the world economy.

SOCIALISM – WEALTH BELONGS TO THE SOCIETY

The proponents of socialism like Karl Max, etc. declared in Unison – “Individual property is theft; property owners are thieves.” Thus, they advocated that the system of personal property should be destroyed. Wealth should be declared as income of the society and be distributed proportionately in the society and be distributed proportionately in the society without any discrimination whatsoever. On these fundamental principles emerged socialism. Complete ownership of wealth was bestowed upon the society. The age-old Vedic question received a new answer – ‘Wealth belongs to the society.’

The question is whether this experiment was logical and rational. Certainly, the solution to the discriminatory practices of capitalism was inherent in this system. The system provided solution to the economic inequalities, which prevailed in the capitalistic system of economy. Through this system, exploitation could be checked to a large extent. However, amidst solutions and finer points of this system, another grave problem cropped up which itself exposed the serious loopholes in the system. There emerged a larger issue of immense concern to both the producer and the consumer. The system usurped the all-important elements of personal freedom. All crucial decisions pertaining to production came to be taken by a handful of planners and bureaucrats. Bureaucracy reigned supreme in every walk of life. Since the system predetermined the wages of individual, skill and innovation got dissolved over a period of time. Since there was no personal profit, nobody felt motivated to put in extra labour and skill. Lethargy began to prevail all around. People opted for leisure in lieu of hard work. All this together inflicted a hard blow to socialism. The impact was so powerful that even a strong nation like USSR could not bear it and ultimately collapsed. Many East European nations also became victims of immature and impracticable policies of this system.

Thus, the age-old Vedic question – “Whose wealth is this?” remained answered on the social horizon too. These developments forced the economists and policy makers to propose another answer to this vital question. There emerged another system to run the economic fabric of the society.

MIXED ECONOMY – WEALTH BELONGS TO BOTH THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE SOCIETY

In reply to Vedic Question, this system said, “Both the individual and the society have the ownership of wealth.” The wealth belongs to both. As a result, the world witnessed co-existence of both the private and the public sector. In lure of personal profit, the private sector started devising best skills and practices to produce goods and services at the optimum level. On the other hand, the public sector started utilising national resources in a planned manner for social welfare.

The merits of both, Capitalism and Socialism, were merged to gain maximum profits and attain the goal of social well-being. But, every coin has two sides. Just as the merits of the two previous systems were up for grab, even so, the demerits were also there to follow the suit. Many other serious issues also surfaced. To cut things short, this system also did not prove fault-free.

The aforementioned facts are not meant to convey that all these system were a total failure. Moving on these lines, some nations could undoubtedly achieve an all-round development. The progress and advancement of nations like USA, Japan, etc. is today witnessed by the whole world. However, the fact also cannot be ignored that none of the systems proved perfect and fool proof. Each system suffered from some or the other shortcoming.

A system can be perfect only under one condition – when it not only propels industrial progress but also boosts the moral and ethical wealth of both the producers and the consumers mentally and ethically. An ideal system would be one which not only lays a strong foundation for economic growth but also sow the seeds of satisfaction, patience, and selflessness in the minds of people. Only a system, which pays equal regard and attention to both the aspects of human evolution, can be perfect and fault free. Such a system, capturing the two-fold purpose of human development, alone can provide a logical and rational answer to the vital Vedic question.

SPIRITUALISM – WEALTH BELONGS TO GOD

The Vedic seer had not just raised a question of immeasurable significance for the entire human race, but had also provided answer to the question itself. If we refer to the Sanskrit version and connotation of the question – Kasya svid dhanam, we would know that the question itself provided the answer. Inherent in the connotation is the answer to the question. The entire expression when disintegrated implies – K+asya svid dhanam –Wealth belongs to God alone. Therefore, Spiritualism declares unequivocally that wealth belongs neither to an individual nor the society. It belongs to God only. It is just an offering to humankind from the ever benevolent Lord. We are only trustees empowered to make use of it in a rightful manner.

Recipient of an offering is then required to follow religiously an age-old special tradition. Under this God-ordained tradition, one is not permitted to hoard wealth or use it for personal deeds alone. It has to be mutually shared and expended. Then and then alone, it gives pure pleasure to all. It has been said that something which pleases all is oblation – Prasaadam. Spiritualists, in every age, advocated this very system of dealing with wealth.

The system entails the following guiding principles:

·         Wealth in our possession should be looked upon as a gracious offering from God.

·         Never ever hoard wealth in your personal coffers.

·         Never restrict it to personal use only.

·         Help should be heartily extended to the needy and deserving.

The ideas were presented to the posterity by the Vedic seers through their powerful messages and soulful personal examples. Hereunder, is presented a brief description of some examples:-

In Shrimad Bhagvat Puran, Lord Krishna dwelt upon an important principle of economic policy. He declared that “a man has rightful right on quantity which is sufficient to pacify his hunger. The one, who considers as his own more than what is needed by him, is a thief of society and liable to be punished.”

Bhagwan Mahavir also depicted the same principle in words – “wealth more than one’s need is liable to be abnegated like sacred cow’s meat.” Thus, all enlightened souls have criticised the tendency of hoarding. They have said that such tendencies are apt for ants and bees, but, for humans this mind-set is deplorable.

The Vedas also proclaim – “Those who consume their earned income alone and do not share with others, all their efforts for income-generation are futile. Remember, this wealth will one day become the cause of their death.”

In this roaring message is inherent a profound warning too. The sages, in fact, endeavoured to convey to the humankind that even if one amasses wealth like Duryodhana, a villainous character in the famous epic Mahabharata who denied lawful share to his brethren, he will surely be defeated in life. A similar message is also depicted in the Holy Gita. One of its verses says – “Those great ones who consume remains of a religious sacrifice are liberated from all sins. But, those who look for only themselves, they only earn and accumulate sins.” At another place, the Holy Gita advises not to hoard more than required. Never consume alone. Share with others.

What should really be done with earned income? The system of economy whose sole basis is spiritualism presents an altogether different philosophy. It advises us to distribute earned income among the deserving and needy people of the society. Saint Kabir has also given similar message through one of his verses. The verse says – “When water enters the boat, the instant reaction of the boatman is to pour the water out using both his hands. In the same vein, when the wealth swells up in our coffers, we should demonstrate humanness by giving it away in charity to the society with both hands.”

It, however, does not imply that earning is a bad proposition. This system goads us to work hard using fair means and earn. But, all this should not be for self-interest rather for philanthropic purposes. It should be inspired by goodness at large. We have heard of Emperor Harshvardhana, who would work hard for five years to run the affairs of his kingdom. And then, at the conclusion of the fifth year, he would give away everything in charity.

Not just one, there have been umpteen philanthropists in the past. Large heatedness has been the cornerstone of philanthropy of the Aryans of yesteryears. Self-abnegation and self-extrusion has been the tradition. Hoarded wealth was declared to be the cause of death and giving away in charity was compared to immortality.

Charity – How, How much, and to Whom is a significant aspect of this deed itself. Charity should not be done blindly. Spiritualism does not advocate irrational charity. Act of charity should be performed with clear and clean heart, and with utmost humility. There should not be even a tinge of self-praise and pride. God should be regarded as the only giver and we as only His instruments. Give away charity as per your economic status. Give only to the needy and the deserving. Make sure that your act of charity should not propel the recipient to take begging as a matter of habit. Give only to the one who is truly impoverished and hapless. Only such institution should benefit by your charity which are doing real public good and welfare. – These were ideals and rules that were enshrined in the economic system proposed by the spiritualists of India.

Saint Kabir has said – “If such a system is introduced in the society, down to the level of an individual, this will lead to a flawless system of economy in which nobody will earn and spend using unfair means.” This will surely reinforce and establish the finer points and merits of Ram Rajya. All will be suffused with the sense of large heartedness and philanthropy. None will be poor, impoverished, and sorrowful. There will be health, happiness, and wealth all over.

It is, therefore, imperative for the materialistic world to pay heed to our Saints’ exhortation. Pay heed and act to usher into an ideal world. Deeds and wealth become productive, constructive, and justifiable when acted upon by internalising eternal religion. Practical spirituality (Brahm Gyan)is the foundation of a sound economic system. This is the eternal truth.

for more information visit to : DJJS

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

The happiness for which you are searching is nowhere outside but within you. To get the eternal happiness, there is a need to seek for the True Master. These beautifully words reverberated in Chakan, Maharashtra from April 19 to 25 during Shrimad Bhagwat Katha organized by DJJS (Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan). Katha orator, Sadhvi Padamhasta Bharti Ji, preacher disciple of Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, made it very clear that today's generation have to first seek for the company of true master and then only he can establish the true meaning of birth.

Each day of the Katha was vibrant with oration based decorations meticulously planned by DJJS volunteers. Many high profile guests and dignitaries also marked the divine assembly. It was bliss for everyone to attend such an enlightening Katha whose orator herself was self-realized by revered Gurudev Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji (Founder and head of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS). DJJS is a socio-spiritual organization whose pillars are carried by selfless volunteers who are generously dedicated towards the mission of world peace.

Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji is a visionary saint, whose motto is to establish world peace by uniting all the inhabitants of the world into one global family. He quoted “The situation of the world cannot be grimmer than what is today, wherein upheaval and widespread calamity are just a press of button away to save the world from going into pieces, the need is to reform the terrorism mindset of its building blocks. Individual reformation can also lead to world reformation and the pre-requisite for that is Brahm Gyan- the art of governing one’s own self.

Sadhvi Ji orated, “People are so busy in decorating the destructive body that they forget the presence of a holy soul living within them who is craving to become auspicious with the grace of self realized master of time.” The preacher even made it easier for devotees to fathom "Why we need guru?" and "What is Brahm Gyan?" by singing bhajans (Devotional songs) in Maharashtra’s mother tongue ‘Marathi’. The beginning lines say it all:

' aaji soniyancha dinu warshe amrutancha ghanu,

hari pahila re hari pahila re sabhayabhntari awgha vypak murari!"

These lines were sung by Saint Gyaneshwar ji when he was bestowed upon with divine knowledge by his true master. It means “That the day of today is the golden day, I saw the father of universe and it lead to holy nectar fall within me.” We only request you to take one small initiative to meet your beloved GOD and you shall have it for sure.

for more details visit to : Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

Shri Krishna Katha

Shri Krishna Katha

Today’s time is full of conflict and contradictions. At one end, a human being desires materialistic success, the one that give him money, power and fame and on the other end, clinging on to values, family, YOGA, meditation etc. Somewhere a human being wants best of both the worlds but end up compromising both. In such circumstances, DJJS, under the divine guidance of His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji is putting their conscientious efforts to convey the path of ‘striking the balance amidst contradictions’.

Yet another attempt in the form of Shri Krishna Katha was made by DJJS which provided the rich resource of the ancient legacy to the masses and infused in them the inevitable divine endowment.

Enlightened the masses with their deep spiritual and scientific meanings. She beautifully touched every stage of Shri Krishna’s life elaborating on his role as a spiritual Guru and divine knowledge (Brahm Gyan) he bestowed on Arjuna amidst the chaos of battlefield. Complemented with shlokas from Bhagavata Purana, she elaborated on how every stage of Shri Krishna’s life starting from birth has been for the benefit of mankind. She forced audience to introspect and realize that each step in Lord Vishnu’s incarnation on Earth in the form of Lord Krishna is full of challenges and difficulties but why? Couldn’t Lord chose an easy life for HIMSELF? She made the audience think that each divine act of HIS was just and just for the benefit of the mankind.

Discussing on the glory of Satsang and need for a Guru in one’s life, Shri Krishna says, ‘It is only by association with the wise and the righteous, that many who were of a Rajasic or Tamasic nature have attained ME’. With the axe of Divine knowledge (imparted by Guru) sharpened by the one-pointed devotion acquired by the service and worship of a true Guru, one can steadily cut asunder this tree of Samsara.

The preacher stressed upon the need of Brahm Gyan in present day too. She stressed upon the fact that Arjuna was confused in battlefield but for today’s human being, each day is a battle field, whether it is work, home, travelling on roads etc. and so a spiritual intervention is much more needed. Audiences were mesmerized with the divine thoughts and bhajans performed from time to time during the program. They also got to know about the Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS) and its mission for Global Peace through Brahm Gyan.

for more information visit to :  Shri Krishna Katha

Mind via Meditation

              Mind via Meditation

It is aptly said that our thoughts translate into our actions. If we can channelize our thoughts in the right direction, our actions will automatically be beneficial to self and the society. It looks easy in saying but much harder to put it in practice is what most of us thinks. It is true to some extent but not impossible to achieve.

Many scientifically inclined minds have tried and are trying to analyze the thought process by studying the brain signals and patterns using various techniques.

‘Creating Brilliance in the Mind via Meditation’

The event commenced with Swami Ji introducing the neuroscience involved behind the arising thoughts in an individual’s mind. Presenting HIS holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji’s research, the gripping talk then moved on to how an individual could critically distinguish between negative and positive thoughts and why the distinction is significant in the first place.

Towards the concluding phase of the first part, Swami Ji then explained how ‘Brahm-Gyan (divine knowledge)’ based meditation is the most simplest and effective tool to fine-tune the neuro-signals and enable them to stay positive in the long-run.

The attempt was to ‘understand the Neuroscience behind the thought processes’.

Leading the attendees into the basic and practical session of meditation and highlighting its subtle benefits on the body. It was thereby proved practically that controlling and guiding our thoughts are not impossible, need is to practice the technique daily.

It is our daily dose of staying healthy, happy and positive. There is no other silver bullet. The positive feedback from the attendees was evident of the high caliber seminar delivered by Gurudev’s disciples.

for more details visit to : Mind via Meditation

Inner Evolution & Spirituality

Inner Evolution & Spirituality

In thoughts, deeds, intentions, and character, it is only a wise person who can benefit himself as well as others. It is only a follower that can be selfless and dedicated to others. Wisdom comes with devotion and devotion is yielded from surrendering. For a devotee, there is no variance, all is one and one is all.

Countless devotees attended the program and felt refreshed from the divine vibes reverberated through the enlightening sermon and devotional tunes. The energetic stage set up through which precious discourse and the melodies disseminated supplemented the divine ambience.

The divine of His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, founder and head of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, spoke about patience, tolerance, and self- control. All are required on the trail of spirituality. Self-control brings strength, tolerance leads to division, and patience results in tranquility, all are characteristics of spiritual progress. As it has been said,

“ To bring the change in the world we need no more worldly revolutions,but inner evolution. ”

Bring the Change in the inner chambers of the hearts of each individual must occur in order to see the change outside in today’s painful world. Such a change is possible through the proper technique of Brahm Gyan, a scientific method to achieve peace.

The worshippers were seen habitat in the harmonious hymns as well as embedding the spiritual guidance into their hearts. All allegation touched hearts at the individual level bringing out emotions and providing clarity to wandering minds.

Attendees participate for this event month-long and aspire to deepen their roots transcendentally between programs. The monthly event serves as a inspiring call to generate progress on the path that Satguru trends forth for a disciple.

The program came to a close as it brighthed the dark minds, brought rest to the drifting zeal, and sprung up the reposing souls.

for more details visit to : Inner Evolution & Spirituality

Mobiles/ Smartphones/ Tablets

Mobiles/ Smartphones/ Tablets- Use Them Smartly To Avoid Associated Health Risks

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP; a healthcare society) recently reported that working on smartphones/tablets even while commuting or after getting back home has made people “screen slaves.” “Hand-held devices are increasingly making people work beyond office, with nearly two-thirds of the people continuing to work outside office hours on their handheld devices at an average of extra 2 hours every day, apart from 6 and 1/2 hours of regular office time”– reported the study findings of CSP. Interestingly, if we add the leisure time or travel time (for some over 4-5 hours) we are glued to smartphones/tablets apart from work, we would realise that the 'screen indeed rules our lives today.' Somebody rightly said, “We don't own our phone; rather, the phone owns us.”

EYE PROBLEMS, POSTURAL ISSUES, AND STRESS WITH EXCESSIVE USE

Research shows that as people struggle to concentrate on small screens and little fonts on smartphones/mobiles/tablets, they blink less (especially on subways, metros, or buses), leading to eye strain, headache, dry eyes, red sore eyes, and blurred vision apart from irritation. Further, most people have postural problems while looking down at these hand-held devices for a long time, especially when they do so while traveling and beyond the workplace. Most people using these devices outside their workplace are not maintaining the posture compared to that at a workplace, which causes strain in the neck and shoulders, apart from causing pain (Turtle Neck Syndrome). Somebody remarked in a lighter vein, “When people first started using mobiles/smartphones, they thought it was pain-in-the-neck, for it made them accessible 24x7, but they never knew that it would actually cause a pain in the neck.”

“Postural problems are the leading health risk of hand-held devices, even when used at workplace, as fewer than 25% users were seen to take care or think about their posture while working in front of screens at their workplace/office,” the CSP research findings reported. Further, findings showed that regularly working extra in the evenings puts one at an increased risk of back and neck pain, along with stress-related illness. “People need to learn to talk to managers about excessive workload and learn to discipline themselves by switching off their smartphones after office to cut down the screen-time,” commented the chairwoman of the CSP, Dr Helena Johnson.

Interestingly, earlier in 2009 too, The Canadian Physiotherapy Association issued a similar advice and warned that extended use of touchscreen devices (smartphones/tablets) in awkward positions could lead to stiffness, and muscle/joint pain.

Also, smartphones/mobiles were linked to stress and behavioural problems (predominantly irritation) in 16% users in a study done in the University of Staffordshire. Another study showed that blood pressure became lower in those who had given up using mobiles/smartphones or cut down its use, indicative of its stress-inducing potential. Further, prolonged exposure to hand-held devices for stressed out work schedules as shown globally also adds to mental stress, leading to mental problems like anxiety and depression.

Therefore, stay tuned with us and keep striving towards a perfect state of good health, physically, mentally, and socially. We would do our best to empower you in doing so. Good day!

MINIMIZING HEALTH-RISK OF HAND-HELD DEVICES

1. To ward off eye risks of smartphones/tablets, it is recommended not to hold them close. Increase the font size, and give eyes rest by taking regular and frequent in-between short breaks and gazing into distance for a couple of minutes.

2. Bending the head down should be avoided while using these gadgets for a long time. A few minutes of rest should be given every hour or two, with the neck and shoulders straightened/stretched during the rest period. Also, regular physical activity with yoga sessions would take care of strained back and neck.

3. While individuals need to be made aware, employers should also help their staff by counselling on better working habits, doing yoga postures or physical activity at gyms, and make them aware of the importance of maintaining good posture on-screen.

HAND-HELD DEVICES: THERE IS MORE TO IT!

Environmentalists claim that smartphones/mobiles are damaging our environment and consequently our health. But, to forsake them is beyond the scope of the present article. In fact, other studies across the globe also suggest mobile screens to be transmitting viral infections through our fingertips. Moreover, smartphones/ mobiles have also been implicated in destroying our focus and creating stress in most people as they obsessively kept checking their menu screen, news, e-mail, and apps regularly in spite of no new information coming. Further, radiations from mobiles/smartphones have been linked to brain tumour/cancer, sleep disturbances, and infertility in men who keep cell phones in their trouser pocket. We would undoubtedly like to ponder over these health risks caused by smartphones and other hand-held devices in one of our future issues.

Therefore, stay tuned with us and keep striving towards a perfect state of good health, physically, mentally, and socially. We would do our best to empower you in doing so. Good day!

for more information visit to : DJJS