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YGG: JEEVANI Book 3
YOGESHWAR GURU GANGESHWAR
JEEVANI- BOOK 3
WRITTEN IN HINDI BY SMT. RATAN BEHAN FOZEDAR.
प्राक्कथन।
पितरं मातरं विद्यामन्त्रदं गुरुमेव च।
यो न पुष्णाति पुरुषो याज्जीवं च सोऽशुचिः॥
सर्वेषामपि पुज्यानां पिता वन्द्यो महागुरुः।
पितुः शतगुणामाता गर्भधारणपोषणात्॥
माता च पृथिवीरुपा सर्वेभ्यश्च हितैषिणी।
नास्ति मातुः परो बन्धुः सर्वेषां जगतीतले॥
विद्यामन्त्रप्रदं सत्यं मातुः परतरो गुरुः।
न हि तस्मात्परः कोऽपि वन्धः पूज्यश्च वेदतः॥
वस्तुतः As a matter of fact: In this world , there is no greater Devata than the Mother and Father and Guru !
Mother and Father have given us this mortal body which is a means for Moksha –this is their mercy and gratefulness! Therefore,
who can be more worthy than them?
A father is worthy of worship, praise and is a well- wisher—he is the Devata who is visible प्रत्यक्ष देवता, but the Mother raises us in her
womb and nourishes us and that is why she is hundred times more worthy of praise than the father.
Like the Prithvi ( earth ) she is always patient and forgiving and desires the well being of all without any bias, therefore there is no
greater friend and well wisher than the MOTHER in this world!
It is also true that the one who gives us knowledge and the Mantra -the GURU deserves more praise and adoration than a Mother!
According to the Vedas there is no one more worthy of respect and worship than the – Sadguru .
How can one compare or praise the good fortune of those who have been lucky to be associated with you who is well- known as a
Vibhuti in the world and is the living embodiment of the Vedic literature वेद वाङ्मय !!
The luck of such devotees cannot be compared or praised as all words will fall short!
माया मनुष्यं हरिम् –You have donned the garb (स्वाँग ) of a human and appeared on this earth as an Avatar in Bharat Bhoomi for the welfare of the world!
You are the best of the Teerths (pilgrimages) and to serve you and be under your patronage and company can grant one Moksha.
The darshan of such Yogeshwars is very rare even the Devtas, but we are really lucky that we are able to get your darshan since the past so many years!
Those who worship their Ishta Devta only as an Idol( Murti) and limit it to just that, would not have been able to get your darshan , touch ,
circumambulation or the seva of your lotus feet!
It would have been impossible!
अहो वयं जन्मभृतो लब्धँ कार्त्स्न्येन तत्फलम्।
देवानामपि दुष्प्राप्यं यद् योगेश्वरदर्शनम्॥
किं स्वल्पतपसां नृणामर्चायां देवचक्षुषाम्।
दर्शन-स्पर्शन -प्रश्न,प्रह्व,पादार्चनादिकम्॥
न ह्यम्मयानि तीर्थानि न देवा मृच्छिलामयाः।
ते पुनन्त्युरुकालेन दर्शनादेव साधवः॥
If a knowledgeable ( Gyaani ) great man is served for even a very short time he has the ability to remove all our sins and pains!
The main purpose of your Avatar has been to bring back the Vedas and restore their glory and to remove the ignorance in the world by
the knowledge of the Vedas and bring the sleeping world alive !!
उतिष्ठ जाग्रत,प्राप्य वरान्निबोधत
This is the proclamation!
Meaning:
Arise, awake, find out the great ones and learn of them; for sharp as a razor’s edge, hard to traverse, it is difficult to go on that path , say the sages.
Kathopanishad ( 1-3-14)
Shankar Bhagwan trapped the flow of the Ganga when she descended from Swarg and coiled her in His locks so that the descent of the
water could be controlled! This great feat was possible only because of His Divinity!
Are you ( Gurudev ) Bhagwan Shankar who adorns the Crescent Moon on His head and the Snake around His neck, the
Uma-Shakti -Ardhnarishwar Swaroop of Bhagwan Shankar or are you ( Gurudev) the one who is bestowed with enormous beauty and
Aishwarya and is the Poorna Paratpar Purushottam पूर्ण परात्पर पुरुषोत्तम Shri Krishna who has by the power of Vishwa Mohini come with
the Ved Vani on your lips to give the nectar of the Vedas to the devotees and loved ones??
Note: परात्पर ( higher than the highest ) पुरुषोत्तम( the best among men /Purush).
The decision is in the hands of the readers who will decide based on their bhavana( feelings) .
Just as
Naam-Naami नाम–नामी ( Name -Reknown/reputed one)
Gunna-Guni गुण–गुणी ( Quality – Meritorious /gifted one )
Are one and the same always ( are two sides of the same coin)
Gurudev your name GANGESHWAR is made up of the two words SHANKAR and YOGESHWAR.
Your name has the effulgence of BOTH!
If I were to describe these qualities further I would need to write another book on it!
The entire world is in the throes of Adharma, Unethical values, bribing and cheating and is waylaid from the path of living a
correct lifestyle which has the enormous ability to bring in light and happiness.
There is violence and perusal of inhuman values which is throwing man in the depths of darkness and thus he is drowning in the
ocean of Samsara with no help at hand!
There is only one saviour under such situations and that is BHAGWAN VED- which is Sakshaat Shri Krishna! साक्षात् श्री कृष्ण
Vedas are Shri Krishna Personified!
The innumerable teachings of the Vedas have the ability to save Jeevas!
That is why YOGESHWAR GURU GANGESHWAR has already been compiled in two books for the people of all walks of life and now
the third book is being written which has the detailed description of Gurudev’s centenary celebrations, the Janm Shatabdi Mahotsav.
All efforts will be made to elucidate all the events of this auspicious occasion.
I am writing your divine biography with the objective of telling the world about your efforts to spread the message of the
Vedas like the flow of Ganga from the mountains in the entire world, so that the darkness of ignorance can be removed and
to motivate the people of the world to walk on the path of Knowledge so that their life is full of progress and happiness and
thereby they can take advantage of being born as a human being and experience Jeevan Mukti.
उत्कर्षशील प्रेममय और आनंदमय जीवन बनें
On behalf of all those people who have never had your Darshan ( never ever seen you) or those who were lucky enough to have
a brief association with you , or those who desired to spend more time with you but because of worldly duties were unable to do so,
I am chronicling the events of your life for such people so that they get the satisfaction and enjoy and feel exhilarated !
This Gangeshwar Charit-Ras-Ratnakar will always be available for everyone to experience joy and happiness.
More than half my life ( says Smt Ratan Behan) has gone in serving you and I have had the opportunity to be under your patronage छत्र छाया
I consider this has been possible only because of your mercy and grace.
During this period, I had the good fortune to see several aspects of your divinity.
I call them the GEMS—Ratn रत्न .
I saw-
Detachment पूर्ण अनासक्ति ,
Renunciation and wisdom वैराज्ञ और विवेक
Restrain and abstinence संयम
Unbiased and impartiality संमदृष्टि
Tolerance सहिष्णुता
Truthfulness सत्य
Patience धीरता
Bravery वीरता
Forgiveness क्षमाशीलता,
Generosity औदर्य ,
Straightforwardness and Honesty ऋजुता
Compassion करुणा
Such is the treasure house of your innumerable sterling qualities !
Slowly-slowly these colourful waves of your qualities sieged my entire being and I was cleansed from outside and inside and
thereby the impurity of many lifetimes was removed and filled my life with peace which was otherwise devoid of wisdom and discernment.
It was as if a seasoned and clever sculptor had made an attractive piece of sculpture from marble and infused it with his own qualities and decorated it.
The qualities that appear in me like art, beauty, love and gentleness are all actually the Prasad of the most kind and generous Gurudev.
Whatever one is interested in or loves to do one can certainly accomplish that !!
In life there are some relationships that are so dear and we never stop to sing praises of such relationships.
But the praises of knowledgeable Mahtamas can never be enough! One can carry on for several Yugas to sing their praises and yet they will never end!
The qualities of Bhagwan Vishnu could not be encompassed in the 12 chapters of the Shreemad Bhagwat also and then for me to
sing the praises of a Saguna Sakaar Brahman who has so many divine qualities which cannot be counted it will not be a possible task.
Time will fall short but not His greatness and the stories will never end!
Therefore, it is my request to the readers that they gather the treasure from this biography which has so many gems embedded
so that their life becomes full of bliss and their life as a human being achieves it’s main goal –that of Bhagwat Prapati—God Realization.
Gurupad Pankaj Raj
Ratan
I bow at the lotus feet of my Guru.
सः जनासः इन्द्रः।
नहि नु अस्य प्रतिमानम् अस्ति अन्तः जातेषु उत ये जनित्वाः।
( ऋ.वे.४–१८–४).
The divine Seer of the Rig Ved Mantras Maharishi Vamdev who is considered as one of the foremost of all the Rishis is known
to be the Drishta of the above Mantra that appears in the 4th Mandal of Rig Ved.
The following words are mentioned for Indra the Devta of all Devtas ( in other words Parmeshwar )-
The ones who are born and the ones who will be born, among them, there is none like him.
This testament of the Vedas aptly describes our Ved MurtiSwaroop , the knower of Ved Vidya, the one who lives His life according
to the teachings of the Vedas, Ved Darshan Acharya Anant ShriVibhushit Maha Mandaleshwar Sadguru Bhagwan SHRI GANGESHWARANANDJI MAHARAJ .
In every age Ved Dharma has been in peril and to save the Vedas , every age has seen the coming of a Sarveshwar ( the Lord of all )
on the land of Bharat who has protected the Vedas and spread the teachings.
Our Sadgurudev is one among the league of many Acharyas , Sant and Mahants who have appeared in Bharat.
You are a ChaturVed Bhasyakaar. चतुरवेद-भाष्यकार ( you have written commentaries on all the four Vedas).
You have written new meanings in the light of सात्वत-पक्ष ( truthful aspect ) of the mantras of Rig Ved , Yajur Ved , Saam Ved and
Atharva Ved and presented them in your commentaries.
BHAGWAN VED– the epic form of the four Vedas that was published and distributed throughout the world and in Bharat was a unique feat of Gurudev.
Inspired by your nectar like words the Jeevas obtain divine knowledge and can proclaim-
अपाम् सोमम् अमृता अभून्म
अगन्म ज्योतिः अविदाम देवान्
(ऋ.वे.८—४८—३)
Meaning:
We have partaken Som ( the elixir of life), सोम का पान किया है
We have become Immortal , अमर बन गये है
We have got the divine Vision, दिव्य ज्योति प्राप्त हुई है
We have come to know the Gods. देवों को जान गये है
Hey! Amrit Putra! Hey ! Friend of Mankind! I will just say that if one wants to cross over this ocean of life then the easiest way is to
seek refuge at the feet of Sadgurudev because as per the words of BHAGWAN VED —
सः जनासः इन्द्रः।
( Rig Ved 2—12—9 )
हे मनुष्यो, वह इन्द्र है. वही परमात्मा है।
Oh Mankind! He is Indra and He is ParamAtma!
तन्मे मनः शिवसंकल्पमस्तु।
( य्.वे. ३४–१ ).
The powers of the MIND are introduced and elucidated in the ShivSankalp Sukta of Yajur Ved Chapter 34.
The Activities of the Mind मन की गतिविधियाँ are explained in a scientific manner and the ways and means of uplifting the mind in case
it falls in the well of darkness because of the evils of the world and becomes ASHIV अशिव ( inauspicious/evil )
There is a prayer at the end of each of the mantras asking for divine help to rise from the darkness of ignorance.
तन्मे मनः शिवसंकल्पमस्तु।
( य्.वे. ३४–१ ).
May my mind nurture auspicious and beneficial pure thoughts.
The auspicious thoughts can be introduced and can become firm in the mind only when Man goes beyond the desires of the world and the Vaasnas.
It is certain and is a well -known fact and experienced by one an all that the Mind is full of Vaasnas, Karmas and Samskaars that
have been gathered over many lifetimes.
Vāsanā ( वासना) is a behavioural tendency or karmic imprint which influences the present behaviour of a person.
Such a mind cannot be trained to nurture auspicious thought.
What is to be done then?
Our Shastras and the Rishi Munis have given us advice to resolve this dilemma.
They say that we should be vigilant at all times while performing any action by the mind, body or with our wealth. तन मन धन
Whatever action we undertake should be done with an auspicious and pure thought and Bhavana.
In one of the Stotra in the Shiv Manas Pooja a plea is made—
आत्मा त्वं गिरिजा मतिः सहचराः प्राणाः शरीरं गृहं
पूजा ते विषयोपभोगरचना निद्रा समाधिस्थितिः ।
संचारः पदयोः प्रदक्षिणविधिः स्तोत्राणि सर्वा गिरो
यद्यत्कर्म करोमि तत्तदखिलं शंभो तवाराधनम् ।।
– शिवमानसपूजा
ātmā tvaṃ girijā mati: sahacarā: prāṇā: śarīraṃ gṛhaṃ
pūjā te viṣayopabhogaracanā nidrā samādhisthiti: |
saṃcāra: padayo: pradakṣiṇavidhi: stotrāṇi sarvā giro
yadyatkarma karomi tattadakhilaṃ śambho tavārādhanam ||
Oh Prabhu!
Thou art my Self (Ātmā); my intelligence is Mata Parvati (Girija) ; my life forces, sense-organs, are Your attendants;
My body is Your abode (Temple of the Lord); experiencing the objective world is Your worship; my sleep is the state of Samadhi ;
Moving about with two feet is circumambulation of You, O Lord;
All the words and speeches are hymns about You.
Whatever action I perform, O Lord Shambu- Oh Guru! it is all Your (Aradhana) worship alone.
There is no difference between Shambu Shiv and Sadguru.
Smt Ratan Behan says-
Therefore, I plead to my Gurudev to make my mind pure and auspicious.
Hey Bhagwan! May all the words that I speak become your JAP.
All the art forms that I make be your Creation.
My walking and moving around become your circumambulation ( Pradakshina).
My eating become an oblation in the sacrificial fire ( Havan).
My lying down becomes a Pranam or salutation to you,
In this way the offerings made by my आत्मार्पण बुद्धि ( the intellect that makes all offerings to the Atma ( the Lord ) within ) all my enjoyments
in my life become your pooja ( an offering to you Gurudev).
निजात्मन् वाचक Dear Reader who are my close to my heart let me confess that it is very easy to say but difficult to practise but not impossible at all!
To make this simple and easy to accomplish there is a very simple solution and that is to do the Shravan श्रवण of Prabhu Sadgurdev’s Katha, to
reflect and do the Manan मनन of Sadgurudev’s Charitra ( the story of His lifetime activities ) and to contemplate and imbibe these values
of Gurudev in our life! This will be the Nidhidhyasan निदिध्यासन !
By doing this our mind can become auspicious –Shivsankalp शिवसन्कल्प
NOTE:
Sankalpa (Sanskrit: संकल्प) means an intention formed by the heart and mind — a solemn vow, determination, or will. In practical terms a Sankalpa means
a one-pointed resolve to focus both psychologically and philosophically on a specific goal. A sankalpa is a tool meant to harness the will, and to focus and harmonize mind and body,
Shiv –means auspiciousness.
The Gopis of Vrindavan contemplated on Shri Krishna’s form and leelas and constantly did His darshan in their mind and thereby became one with Him.
I am writing this book and this endeavor is purely for my own satisfaction and it is my labour of love स्वान्तः सुखाय as I enjoy doing
this because as it gives me happiness and I hope that, may all those who read it also become beneficiaries of that joy.
Like my mind may your minds also become SHIV SANKALP –
( to dwell on the auspicious WILL of the Divine which helps in developing calm clear thoughts, and to cultivate a conscious resolve
( Sankalp )in alignment with our dharma).
During the year 1974-1975 at the ripe old age of 95 years Gurudev undertook the mission of Ved Prachar and Prasar
( teaching and disseminating the knowledge of the Vedas) and travelled to South East Asia,Africa, London, America, Canada, Indonesia, and West Indies.
In all these places Gurudev did the Sthapana of the Sanatan Dharma Granth BHAGWAN VED at the Universities, Libraries, Mandirs and at homes of devotees.
He met and had discussions with several people of High positions, Scholars and those who love the Sanskrit Language.
During these talks He spoke about the Vedas, their importance, the usefulness and the glory of this Sacred Granth.
After continuously travelling for four months Gurudev returned to Bharat on 31st July 1975.
Ved and Gurudev are inseparable.Only those who know Him can understand this, as there can be no words to speak on this topic!
In spite of the intense travelling Gurudev’s did not endure any fatigue or ill health but in fact when He returned He was more energetic
and enthusiastic and everyone were surprised to see this!
With this introduction I will now delve into the rest of the Leelas of Gurudev from 1976 to 1980 for the disciples and to do that I request
your permission and blessings!
स्वागत समारोह :३ अगस्त
WELCOME FUNCTION: 3RD AUGUST-1975.
Since Gurudev were away from Bharat for a long time it was natural that when He returned the disciples were very eager to welcome and felicitate Him.
After a two days rest on returning to Bharat the local devotees of Bombay had organised a Welcome Function at the K C College in Churchgate.
The Principal of the College Shri Hotchand Advani was also present as a guest, and Pujya Paad Shri Swami Akhananandji presided the Function.
The hall was packed!
When Gurudev arrived on the stage everyone welcomed Him and displayed their intense Shradha and devotion. They expressed their joy and happiness.
The program carried on as per the plans. Smt Ratan Behan who had travelled with Gurudev for all the four months gave a brief description of the tour.
Shri Swami Akhandanandji and Shri Advani ji in their talks praised Gurudev for this accomplishment.
In the concluding speech Gurudev. spoke about the people abroad and expressed his happiness at the enthusiasm of the people, their hospitality,
love and their nature of renunciation.
He also acknowledged and applauded the curiosity, appreciation and respect for our Samskriti and literature by the foreigners.
The audience listened with rapt attention and were spellbound by the Pravachan.
Our entire travel plan was the culmination of the efforts of the Chainrai Family.
In London and in Lagos Gurudev and all those accompanying Him had stayed with Shri Murlidhar , Shri Pitambar and Shri Giridhar Bhai.
During the days that we were there they had stalled all their personal work and business and gave Gurudev total support and co- operation.
12th August 1975 was the marriage of Shri Giridhar Chainrai’s son Purshottam. Gurudev attended the wedding and gave His Aashirwaad.
ON the next day Gurudev attended the Tulsi Jayanti at the Tulsi Manas Mandir in Parel-Bombay.
15th August was the Independence day.
Shri Hari bhai Dresswala and Shri Agarwal, who are very close devotees and Sadhu Sevaks had organised a ‘Welcome Function’
at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan for Gurudev.
A large number of people attended the Function to felicitate Gurudev and to have His darshan and get blessings.
Many of the people who spoke congratulated Gurudev and in the end Gurudev gave a short Pravachan and gave Aashirwaad to one and all.
मनुर्भव—मानव बनो
BE HUMAN
तन्तुं तन्वन् रजसो भानुमन्विहि
ज्योतिष्मतः पथो रक्ष धिया कृतान्।
अनुल्बणं वयत जोगुवामपो
मनुर्भव जनया दैव्यं जनम्॥
( ऋ.वे. १०–५३–६ )
Meaning:
Hey Manushya( Humans)!
तन्तुम्- the Cobweb ( tantu तन्तु )of Karmas in life.
तन्वन्–Expand them.
रजसः– From this beautiful Prithvilok
भानुम् -In Surya Lok
अन्विहि- Enter ( Surya Lok ) by the intelligence obtained from learned people and ancestors.
कृतान्- Those who are prepared
ज्योतिष्मतः-Effulgent, and endowed with Dharma and Knowledge.
पथ- on the paths
रक्ष-protect
जोगुवाम्-The ones who do the bhakti of Bhagwan and sing His Stutis ( praises).
अपः= of the karmas,
अनुल्बणम्- properly
वयत- weave the fabric of karmas properly –make it ready!
मनुःभव- Become a contemplative Human being. ( मननशील मानव)
दैव्यम् जनम् जनय- Produce off springs having divine qualities.
Note:
मनुर्भव जनया दैव्यं जनम्
–ऋग्वेद 10.53.6
ऋग्वेद तृण से लेकर परमब्रह्म तक का ज्ञान कराता है।
Rig Ved gives us knowledge from that of a blade of grass तृण to the Highest Knowledge of Parbrahman.
उसके ज्ञान का मूलभूत सारतत्व यही है कि हे मनुष्य तू स्वयं सच्च मनुष्य बन तथा दिव्य गुणयुक्त सन्तानों को जन्म दे अर्थात् सुयोम्य मानवों के निर्माण में सतत प्रयत्नशील रह।
The Essential teachings are, that one should be an exemplary Human being and be endowed with Divine qualities and produce
children with similar qualities ( also groom other human beings with such divine and exemplary qualities ).
मनुष्य, मनुष्य तभी बन सकता है, जब उसमें पशुताओं का प्रवेश न हो।
A Human being can be a real human only when he does not let the animal
instincts overpower him.
ऋग्वेद हमें वह सब ज्ञान प्रदान करता है, जिससे व्यक्ति एक प्रबुद्ध मानव रहता है, वह न पशु और न दानव बनने पाता है।
This is the Knowledge that Rig Ved gives us by which a Human being does not let the animal or demonic attributes enter within him.
August 1975………..in Bombay.
Quoting the mantra from Rig Ved , discussed earlier Gurudev gave a very interesting Katha in His Pravachan.
He said-
“Once a father was reading something and while relaxing on an armchair.
His small son was sitting next to him who was very naughty and in his hands was a map of the world. In a fit of naughtiness, he tore the map but a little while later he wanted to put it back the way it was.
He put all the papers on the floor and tried to put the map back as it was before. He spent several hours but to no avail.
His father was watching everything and he softly said-“Son, Try and turn the map around. At the back of that paper is a picture of a man.
Keeping that picture as your focus try and assimilate the torn pieces and automatically you will get the atlas back.”
The child did just that and he was able to get the map back in the original form.
The meaning of this story is that if ‘Man’ ( Manav) is kept as the focus then all the questions in the world can be answered very easily.
The problem these days is that we have forgotten ‘Man’ altogether and forgotten Humanity.
Today Man is not Human anymore! There is greed, violence and other demonic traits in Man.
Our Ved says- Manurbhav मनुर्भव- Be A Man.
Manu मनु –be a contemplative person.
Manu is the first Man and is known as the Aadi Purusha.
Manu is endowed with all the qualities that are expected in a Human Being.
It is for this reason that Manuमनु is called the Ideal Human Being.
Bhagwan Ved gives us encouragement and motivates us to be an Ideal Man.
In the Mahabharat Bhagwan Vyas says
-गुह्यं ब्रह्म तदिदं ब्रवीमि नहि मानुषाच्छेष्ठतरं हि किंञ्चित्।
(महाभारत १२-२८८-२०).
There is no one more superior than MAN.
To be born as a human being is the best, as all the other creations in the world do not have all the special qualities that a Human Being has.
And if such a Human being loses all these qualities then what becomes of him?
He becomes an Animal!
If Man lives a life of a Human being then he has the capacity to achieve divinity. He can also give birth to divine off springs.
What needs to be done to achieve this divinity is mentioned in the above mantra.
Spread the cobweb of Karma.
If we spread the cobweb of karmas by performing —
Karmas-Nishkaam Karmas,
Karmas for the benefit and welfare of the world,
Yagnas and Charity and good deeds,
then when we leave the body we can reach Swarg Loka by the rays of the Sun.
Ved Bhagwan tells us that our ancestors gathered this profound and effulgent knowledge that removes our ignorance and should be protected by us .
This is one way of paying back the debts to our Rishis . This is called–ऋषि ऋण
Further in the third pada of the Mantra, Ved Bhagwan says in the most poetic manner:-
‘Weave the fabric of Karmas with good deeds—Punyas.’
In short I want to say that the first requirement for a man is to become a Human Being ( rise above the animal instincts) and perform all the karmas that you are meant to do.
Create a beautiful fabric of Karmas ! Follow the path that our elders have followed and become divine!
Bring progress in your life by walking on the path of righteousness and become a Divine being from a Human Being.
When we follow the path of the ancestors we will attain divinity without much effort!
श्रद्धा की महत्ता
THE IMPORTANCE OF SHRADHHA.
Ever since Gurudev did the Sthapana of ‘Bhagwan Ved’ which is the Granth of Sanatan Dharam and Arya Samskriti there has been a surge of attraction for the Vedas in the hearts of the people– just like the iron is attracted to the magical Paras stone or the bumble beetle to the lotus flower.
Generally, at auspicious occasions devotees keep the Shreemad Bhagwat Paath, Geeta Paath or the Garuda Purana Katha but now they all seem to opt for the Bhagwan Ved Parayan at the times of Marriages, Thread ceremony or Shradh.
It has been seen that the people have great faith and regard for Ved Parayan and very happily give dakshina to the Brahmins and reward them suitably.
Rig Ved 10th Mandal 151 and Taitrriya Brahmana’s 1-8-8 Sukta is famous as the Shradhha Sukta. श्रद्धा सूक्त
It mentions the importance of SHRADHHA as progress of Man is dependent on Shradhha.
The Fire is ignited because of Shradhha and it is because of Shradhha that the oblations are offered in the Yagna Fire.
Shradhha is higher than Knowledge and Renunciation , Wealth and glory ,Righteousness and Fame. ज्ञान–वैराग्य,धन–ऐश्वर्य एवं धर्म–कीर्ति से श्रेष्ठ है।
It is mentioned in the Ved-
श्रद्धयाग्निः समिध्यते श्रद्धया हूयते हविः।
श्रद्धां भगस्य मूर्धनि वचसा वेदयामसि॥
ऋ.वे. १०–१५१–१
वेद पारायण परंपरा
The TRADITION of VED PARAYAN.
On the 16th and 17th of August there was a Ved Parayan by the devotee from London Shri Bhailal Bhai and the New York devotee the young Nari Pohani.
On 25th of August was the Porrna Aahuti of the Parayan along with Sant Bhojan and Prasad distribution.
Whenever Gurudev are in Bombay there are several Ved Parayans by devotees.
On 27th August devotee Shri Shiv Bhagwan kept a Ved Parayan at his residence which concluded on the 4th of September.
On the same day the flow of Vedic Chanting commenced at Shri Naresh Bhai Sekasaria.
On 30th August was the appearance day of Nand Nandan Shri Krishnachandra Bhagwan and this Janmasthami day was celebrated with joy and happiness.
The Kirtan Singer Professor Ram Panjwani, Daleeliji and others sang lovely and soothing bhajans which touched the hearts of the listeners.
On 2nd September, Gurudev’s old devotee Smt Katy Behan organised a Ved Parayan at Tulsi Nivas.
The mere darshan of Bhagwan Ved is enough to eliminate the sins of many life times.
The regular chanting and studying of the Vedas is also very beneficial.
If the esoteric meanings of the Vedas are not understood then one should approach one’s Sadguru or any other learned scholar to understand the meanings and reflect on them with concentration and with a pure heart.
If we do that, then with the blessings of Gurudev we can progress in life and experience bliss.
It is for this reason that it is written in the Vedas-
कृण्वन्तो विश्वमार्यम्
( ऋ.वे.९–६३–५).
This Updesh is for Man to inculcate good Conduct सदाचार and become the best among others श्रेष्ठ
In one of the Mantras of the Vedas there is a prayer for the above-
ॐ विश्वानि देव सवितर्दुरितानि परासुव।
यदभद्रं तन्न आसुव।
शुक्ल–यजुर्वेद ३०–३
O Creator of the entire Universe, endowed with all the glories ( Aishwarya), the giver of all happiness, Parmeshwara! Please remove all my shortcomings and bad habits from my heart and whatever is good for me and beneficial for me let those come to me because the bad and the good qualities cannot exist at the same place simultaneously.
The Biographies of Great Men.
महापुरुषों के चरित्र
The Biographies of great men are written with the objective of opening up the lotus within our heart and this can happen when we read about their life with utmost Shradhha .
When we do that then the impurities of our heart, the woes, feelings of enmity and other emotions that make us unhappy are replaced with bliss, peace and love and a unique ray of light is projected which makes the lotus within the heart bloom and radiate ( प्रफुल्ल-विकसित) and when that happens, we are able to perceive the unique identity of that Great Person almost instantly.( whose biography we read ).
When their good qualities which are like the flowers spreading their fragrance instil in us a new surge of light and perception then the calming effect of their knowledge which is soothing like the moonlight enters every pore in our body ( रोम-रोम) and divine energy is created.
The heart feels detached from the worldly ties and transactions and the ATMA seems to be in search of a new and different path!
To achieve this high state we have to have to nurture complete faith ( संपूर्ण विश्वास ) , continuous and persistent practice (सतत अभ्यास) , inexhaustible patience ( अटूट धैर्य) , renunciation (वैराग्य ) and mental peace ( मानसिक शांति).
Gurudev gave the Yagnopaveet Diksha to Harish, Mukesh and Ishwar the sons of the devotees from Manila( Philippines ) Shri Daulatram and Vimla Behan Uttamchandani.
On the net day their daughter Madhu was married and Gurudev attended the wedding to bless the newly-weds.
बारिया में भागवत् सप्ताह
Bhagwat SAPTAH in BARIYA.
After the Janamasthami celebrations Gurudev stayed in Bombay for a few days and soon after started His travels once again!
On 22nd September at the request of the Rajmata of Dev Garh Bariya Gurudev went to their Radha Govind temple to attend the
Poorna Aahuti of the Bhagwat Katha.
Gurudev spoke about the leelas of Banke Behari during His pravachan.
On the next day the occasion of RADHA ASHTAMI was celebrated in the Mandir.
संसार–नदी के पार उतर जायँ
Cross over the RIVER of Life.
“ Prabhu! I am quite tired of the different roles that I have to play in this world! There is no peace and quietude anywhere!”
This was a complaint of a devotee to Gurudev!
“Beta, The river of life is filled with rugged stones and to cross this stony river अश्मन्वती नदी is not easy!” answered Gurudev.
“Prabhu! What kind of stones?”
“ Desire, anger and attachment are the stones. The jealousy of one’s own relatives or friends or spite for the enemies come in the way and
blocks our path like the stones and does not allow us to cross this river of LIFE!
Tell me, how can the boat of the Human being’s life cross the River of Samsara easily and without any efforts?” Gurudev asked the devotee.
“What shall one have to do?”
“Listen Son, first of all you have to ARISE उतिष्ठठत if you need to cross this river of life.
Make a determined vow in your mind to make the required efforts!”
“Yes, Maharaj!” replied the devotee.
“Just getting up and being alert will not suffice!”
संरभध्वम् प्रतरत्
Cross this river of Samsara along with your friends, well-wishers and relatives.
In order to cross the river, we need to take the help of the boatman and in the very same manner we need to take the help of the wife, son,
brother and sister, relatives and friends if we want to cross over this river of life.
Maintain friendly relationships with all of them. Remove any kind of grudges from your heart!
Do not bear grudges or be envious of kith and kin –मा भ्राता भ्रातरं द्विषन्—
Remember this VEDIC statement and remind yourself to be friends with one and all!
“Prabhu, we love them but they do not love us.” was the plea from the devotee.
Gurudev said-“ No, it cannot be like that ! If your heart has true love for them then one day they will eventually accept your love. Just as
we earn money by money we can earn love by giving love.
Paramatma lives in the heart of the others also , and the heart is known as Pyaar Ka Sagar ( the ocean of love). If you love them ,
then tell me why will that ever loving Lord the embodiment of love fail to respond?
The devotee replied-“ They will surely give love!”.
Gurudev said –“When we make the attempt to cross over this river of Samsara along-with all relatives and friends then we must
leave behind all the inauspicious things or paths . अशिवाः असन्
We must leave them here अत्र जहीमः
If we sit in the boat and carry all un-necessary cargo then our boat will surely capsize and we too will drown!
Therefore, whatever is inauspicious— leave it behind in the Samasara!
The devotee replied—” Will surely do that !”
Gurudev asked-“ Do you know what will happen then?”
“No, I do not know.” confessed the devotee.
“ Gurudev replied –“ Then let me tell you in the words of Ved Bhagwan —
वयं शिवान वाजान् अभि उत्तरेम—we shall cross this river of Samsara to reach the auspicious Swarg Loka.
वाजो वै स्वर्गो लोकः ( तै.ब्रा. १८-७-१२ )
Vaaj is the name of Swarg Loka. If you cross the river of Samsara , you are sure to obtain the lovely and beautiful Swarg Loka.
We need to wake up from the deep sleep of ignorance and maintain friendly relationships with everyone. There is nothing else
that we need to do!–”replied Gurudev.
Gurudev quoted the following mantra during this conversation-
अश्मन्वती रीयते सं रभध्वं उतिष्ठत प्र तरता सखायः।
अत्रा जहाम अशिवा ये असन् शिवान् वयमुत्तरेमाभिवाजान्॥
(ऋ.वे.१०-५३-८. यजु. १५-११, अथर्व. १२-२-२६).
अश्मन्वती – a river full of stones and rocks.
रीयते—flows rapidly.
सखाय—you must unite –become ONE.
उतिष्ठत—Arise! Get ready ! कमर कस लो ( prepare yourself).
संरभध्व—Unite!
प्रतरता—Swim across the river.
अशिवाः असन् –let go of whatever is inauspicious!
जहाम- renounce them here only!
वयम् शिवान् वाजान् अभि उत्त्तरेम- we will go across to the beautiful Swarg Loka that is beneficial for us.
This concluded the question and answer with the devotee.
नडियाद होकर अहमदाबाद
To AHMEDABAD via NADIYAD.
On 14th of September was the Ved Sthapana at the Ranchhod Mandir in Bariya and Maharaj Jaideep Singh himself performed this auspicious work.
In the evening Gurudev arrived at the Santram Mandir in Nadiyad in Bhai Ambalal’s car.
First of all , Gurudev offered a garland of flowers to the patriotic and brave leader of the country -Shri Vallabhai Patel.
After that the Shobha Yatra for BHAGWAN VED commenced bedecked with flowers.
Vallabh Vidyanagar VishwaVidyalaya’s Vice Chancellor Shri Chiman Bhai had the honours of installing the Vedas at the Santram Mandir.
Gurudev gave a pravachan on the occasion.
मयि धेहि-मुझे प्रदान करो
BHAGWAN VED has a treasure of PRAYERS for fulfilling desires.
The Vedas are like the Himalayas—Majestic and have an inexhaustible number of gems ( Ratna) अनन्तरन्तप्रभव
Which gems must we choose and which to discard! This become a huge problem!
My situation is like that of Upamanyu who was made to sit near the Ocean of Milk क्षीर सागर ( says the authoress Smt Ratan Behan ) .
I quote below the words of the Vedas which express this dilemma so that my Guru Bhai and Behans aspirations and desires ( आकांक्षा ) are resolved.
तेजोऽसि तेजो मयि धेहि।
वीर्यमसि वीर्य मयि धेहि।
ओजोऽस्योजो मयि धेहि।
मन्युररि मन्युं मयि धेहि।
सहोसि सहो मयि धेहि॥
य. वे.१९-९
PRABHU !! you are –
The effulgence/lustre तेज
The seed of creation- वीर्य
The vigour /power ओज
The enthusiasm मन्यु /उत्साह
The power सह ( उत्तम बल ).
We pray to you that you grant us all these qualities so that we can live with peace and happiness in this world and in the end when we depart from this world we find a place at your feet!
All the above mentioned qualities seem to be like synonyms to some but with enthusiasm and efforts we should strive and obtain Spiritual strength आध्यात्मिक शक्ति
If we do that then the words like effulgence, vigour and power etc will not seem to be synonyms पर्याय !
During the trip, Gurudev visited the home of Sardar Vallabhai Patel and then returned to Nadiyad.
O 17th of September there was a reception to honour and felicitate Gurudev on the successful completion of the trip abroad.
Several distinguished personalities attended this function and among them were many Vedic Scholars and also devotees and admirers of Gurudev.
Gurudev were honoured with garlands on behalf of various organisations.
On 18th of September Gurudev returned to Ahmedabad by car.
पंचायत भवन में भगवान वेद
BHAGWAN VED at the Panchayat Bhawan.
On the 20th of September Gurudev installed a copy of BHAGWAN VED with His lotus hands at the Balwant Rai Mehta Raj Panchayat Bhawan Gandhi Nagar.
The head of this Bhawan, Shri Goverdhan Bhai welcomed Gurudev and the chief guest of the day was Shri Kundanlal Dholakia, the member of the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha.
The guest of honour was Shri Maniklal Gandhi.
The Education Minister Shri Naval Bhai Shah and others also attended the function.
Gurudev gave a Pravachan on the topic of Vedas.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks.
On 21stof September was the Ved Sthapana at the Raipur Sanskrit Vidyalaya and Gurudev gave a pravachan on this auspicious occasion.
Among the trustees , Shri Seth Mahendra Kumar Kanhaiyalal was present and amongst the scholars was Shri Bal Krishna Pancholiji.
On 27th of September Gurudev’s old devotee and disciple Swami Madhvanandji took a copy of Bhagwan Ved to Vallabh Garh for the Sanskrit scholar , Shri Vanshi dhar Sahani—Karshini ji as a prasad from Gurudev.
राग स्वरुप भगवान् वेद
BHAGWAN VED’s form as a Raag ( Melody).
From 1971 onwards till this day, I have been most fascinated with the name and fame of BHAGWAN VED and have been watching with total joy and astonishment its distribution, promotion and popularity प्रचार और प्रसार.
My intellect and my heart have accepted Guru, Veda and Ishwar as One form of non-duality ( Advait). अद्वैत रुप
Vedas are knowledge , the light of the Sun, Love and all these are the names which we generally give to Ishwar who has innumerable names and this has also been the declaration of the Vedas-
एकं सद् विप्रा बहुधा वदन्ति।
Ekam Sad Vipra Bahuda Vadanti.
Bhagwan is that one Supreme reality ( Truth /satya ) and the learned people refer to this reality/truth by many different names.
For many years I have been requesting Gurudev to reveal the knowledge of the mysterious form of the Vedas.
Since ancient times Rishis and Munis, ऋषि –मुनि, philosphers and writers दृष्टा–सृष्टा , renunciates तपस्वी, Wise men ज्ञानी and the Yogis योगीजनों have called BHAGWAN VED, the pillar of Sanatan Dharma.
I wanted to know how they had visualised the Vedas in different forms in their meditations. I wanted Gurudev to tell me about the origins of the Vedas.
I am very fond of music, and therefore, I was curious to know why the Saam Ved mantras are set to music. Why are the Richas of the Vedas in different notes like the Udattaउदात्त् , Anudaatअनुदात्त , Swaritaस्वरित ? How are these mantras set to classical melodies ( Raags)and beats ( taals) . I was impatient and wanted to know the originations of these melodies and how these Raags emanated.
( These are the thoughts of the authoress of the biography Smt Ratan Behan Fozedar who was a devout disciple of Gurudev for many years and she traveled with Gurudev on the trips abroad for Ved Prachar).
NOTE:=
UdAtta उदात्त्–This Swara is rendered in the normal pitch note . For practical purposes, we refer this as the medium note (or normal) since that letter is rendered normally without any raise or lowering of the (basic) pitch. A UdAtta akshara is left unmarked and normally printed.
AnudAt . अनुदात्त This Swara is rendered in the lower note compared to UdAtta.
The letters/aksharas are marked with ‘ — ’ (an underline symbol) below it.
Swarita . स्वरित This Swara is rendered in the upper note compared to UdAtta. The letters are marked with “ I ” (an upper stroke above the letter).
Dheergha Swarita: दीर्घ स्वरित This Swara is rendered in the upper note like Swarita for twice the time (Maatra) scale applicable to the letter for which it is marked.
The Dheergha Swarita is marked as “ II “ above the letter. This is an extension of Swarita only through elongation of time of rendering.
Smt Ratan Behan says that her heart desired to know the many mysteries surrounding the origins of the Vedas and finally one day the moment did arrive when she had a conversation with Gurudev in Haridwar during the holy hours of the evening when the Sun was about to set and they were both near the banks of Ganga Maiyya.
On this occasion Gurudev spoke about the Vedas and here are some of the words spoken to Gurudev to Smt Ratan Behan.
Gurudev said—
“Beti, The form of the Vedas cannot be described in words. An entire lifetime spent in practising and studying the Vedas would not be enough because the effulgence of the knowledge within the Vedas cannot be known by anyone!
And its knowledge ज्ञान–प्रकाश has the light that is immeasurable अपरिमित
However, the history of the Vedas as described in the Puraans पुराण is very interesting.
Listen—the dwelling place of the Devatas is where the Sumeru mountain lies, which is the king amongst all mountains and is full of light and is Golden and is adorned with priceless gems and has abundant beauty of nature.
It is दीप्तिमान, स्वर्णमय, रत्नमय शिखरों से सुशोभित
Attracted by the beauty of this place Bhagwan Shri Krishna went there.
This beautiful place called Ved Nagar वेद–नगर is in Jambu Dweep.
( Bharat is referred to as Jambu Dweep in the Puraans ).
In this Ved Nagar, Bhagwan Ved is there at all times as an embodiment ( Saaakar). साकार होकर विद्यमान रहते हैं।
In the court of Bhagwan Ved , Goddess Saraswati is present holding the musical instrument -Veena and a Book, singing the praises of Bhagwan Shri Krishna who is the beholder or अधिष्ठानभूत supporter of all the Three Lokas.
( Tribhuvan त्रिभुवन ).
The Apsaras dance there and Naradji plays his Tambooru.
The Gandharvas play different instruments to please Bhagwan Ved. Over here one can here the waves of Music and Stutis, in 18 groups ( the melodic structure is categorized into 18 groups called jati, which are the fundamental melodic structures ).
The music is in 8 beats ताल, seven notes ( scales) सप्त स्वर and three ‘grams’ तीन ग्राम.
Note:-
In ancient music, order of intervals in an octave was classified as Grams.
- Octave is a series of eight notes occupying the interval between (and including) two notes, one having twice or half the frequency of vibration of the other.
In ancient Indian Music there three Grams.
1.Shadaj Gram.
- Madhyam Gram.
- Gandhar Gram.
Indian Classical Music is based on the first two Grams.
Continuing the conversation between Gurudev and Smt Ratan Behan on the topic of Vedas as per the story in the Puraans.
“ So, Gurudev if the Taal and Svar were Grams then the different Raags must have been also present there?”
Gurudev replied-“ Yes, Why not?
In VED NAGAR there are Raag and Raginis and their five wives and 8 children who reside there in the Saakar form ( as an embodiment).
Bhairav, Megh Malhar, Deepak, Malkaus, Shri Raag and Hindol are the names of Raags.
There colour is brown, green, the peacock green colour is for Megh Malhar , golden for Raag Deepak and the Reddish ( Arun ) colour for Shri Raag.
The Raag Hindol is white like the Swan.”said Gurudev.
“Hearing the vivid descriptions of all the Raags and their colours, my mind imagined a beautiful seven coloured rainbow and this impression got imprinted on my heart. There was the silent Ganga river flowing just near us and the Sun was about to set on the horizon and had spread its red light on the Earth as if to say good bye.
The birds chirped with joy and were proceeding to their nests. Seeing this beautiful sight my heart was overjoyed and was totally immersed in the thoughts of Gurudev.
In the backdrop of the setting Sun ,my heart seemed to give the beat to the melodious music of the Richas of the Vedas with their Svaras and was mesmerized by the flowing Ganga . The complete harmony between the notes of the Richas and the flow of the river Ganga seemed to be present in my Gurudev –an embodiment of divine Knowledge”.
( says Smt Ratan Behan ).
It was time to return to the ashram now. I got up and bowed and paid my respects to Gurudev.
Such a golden opportunity is rare and can be obtained only by good luck.
Speaking about good luck , I recall a beautiful Stuti penned by the great Krishna Bhakt the poet Jaydev.
The last few lines of this Stuti are as follows-
श्रीजयदेव-भणित-विभव-
द्विगुणीत-भूषण-भारम्।
प्रणमत हृदि विनिधाय हरिं
रुचिरं सुकृतोदय-सारम् I
Continuing the conversation between Gurudev and Smt Ratan Behan on the topic of Vedas as per the story in the Puraans.
“ So, Gurudev if the Taal and Svar were Grams then the different Raags must have been also present there?”
Gurudev replied-“ Yes, Why not?
In VED NAGAR there are Raag and Raginis and their five wives and 8 children who reside there in the Saakar form ( as an embodiment).
Bhairav, Megh Malhar, Deepak, Malkaus, Shri Raag and Hindol are the names of Raags.
Their colour is brown, green, the peacock green colour is for Megh Malhar , golden for Raag Deepak and the Reddish ( Arun ) colour for Shri Raag.
The Raag Hindol is white like the Swan”-said Gurudev.
“Hearing the vivid descriptions of all the Raags and their colours, my mind imagined a beautiful seven coloured rainbow and this impression got imprinted on my heart. There was the silent Ganga river flowing just near us and the Sun was about to set on the horizon and had spread its red light on the Earth as if to say good bye.
The birds chirped with joy and were proceeding to their nests. Seeing this beautiful sight my heart was overjoyed and was totally immersed in the thoughts of Gurudev.
In the backdrop of the setting Sun ,my heart seemed to give the beat to the melodious music of the Richas of the Vedas with their Svaras and was mesmerized by the flowing Ganga . The complete harmony between the notes of the Richas and the flow of the river Ganga seemed to be present in my Gurudev –an embodiment of divine Knowledge”.
( says Smt Ratan Behan ).
It was time to return to the ashram now. I got up and bowed and paid my respects to Gurudev.
Such a golden opportunity is rare and can be obtained only by good luck.
Speaking about good luck , I recall a beautiful Stuti penned by the great Krishna Bhakt the poet Jaydev.
The last few lines of this Stuti are as follows-
श्रीजयदेव-भणित-विभव-
द्विगुणीत-भूषण-भारम्।
प्रणमत हृदि विनिधाय हरिं
रुचिरं सुकृतोदय-सारम् I
MAY 28
JEEVANI—
Continuation of
Book 3- YOGESHWAR GURU GANGESHWAR
Biography of
Ved Darshanacharya Sadguru Shri Swami Gangeshwaranandji Maharaj Udasin.
October 1975……..
इन्दिरा गांधी से मुलाकात
MEETING WITH INDIRA GANDHI.
Gurudev arrived in Delhi from Ahmedabad.
On the morning of 29th of September Gurudev met the Prime Minister Indira Gandhi .
They spoke on several issues. Smt Indira Gandhi respects Gurudev and considers Him like a father.
I have heard this myself on many occasions and many others also have endorsed it.
Whenever she arrives to the ashram she does her Pranams with total shraddha and displays humility and reverence.
The ex-Prime Ministers Shri Jawaharalal Nehru and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri also had a lot of respect and faith for Gurudev.
Smt Indira Gandhi also has the same respect and consults Gurudev and takes His guidance from time to time so that she can serve the children of Bharat Maata well and perform her duties for the progress of the nation.
Sants are the visible Avatars of the Lord and we all know that they go around the country rendering help and guidance to the people and often because of them the Vedas, Dharma, Samskriti and Bharat Maata are protected.
हरिद्वार में वेद प्रतिष्ठा
VED PRATISHTA in HARIDWAR.
On 2nd of October Gurudev arrived in Haridwar from Delhi.
Shri Indireshcharandasji, the Mahant of Dehradun is an old acquaintance of Gurudev and often Gurudev and Mahantji meet one another.
On the 5th of October Gurudev met him in Dehradun and returned to Haridwar.
On the next day the Navratras commenced.
That same evening there was BHAGWAN VED installation at the ‘Garibdasji Dharamshala’ of Shyam Sundardasji.
In the afternoon the installation was at Avdhoot Mandal Mahesh ji’s ashram.
दिल्ली से बम्बई
From DELHI to BOMBAY.
On the 7th of October Gurudev returned to Delhi from Haridwar and the next day went to Vrindavan.
After celebrating the festival of Dushera Gurudev returned to Delhi and then proceeded to Bombay to attend the wedding of Ashok, the son of Gurudev’s close devotee Shri Gobindram Seomal.
On the next day on the 18th of October was the Bhagwan Ved installation at the home of Gurudev’s devotee Shri Karmashi Sommaiya.
The temple was very beautifully decorated.
After the Ved Paath , Gurudev gave Pravachan and thereafter gave His Aashirwad to one and all.
On the 19th of October was the wedding of Shri Dharamdasji’s son Shri Ashok and Gurudev attended the wedding to bless the newly- weds.
On the next day was Bhagwan Ved’s pooja and Pravachan by Gurudev at the home of Shri Gobindram Seomal.
उत्तर भारत में
In NORTH INDIA.
On 21st October Gurudev went to Delhi by air and the next day arrived in Amritsar to attend the ‘Nirmal Silver Jubilee Anniversary’.
On 26th of October Gurudev inaugurated the celebrations of the above mentioned event and also gave a Pravachan.
Later Gurudev went to the ashram of Dr. Sadhwi Krishna Behan and gave a Pravachan on the topic of Vedas.
बहनों को वेदाध्ययन की आज्ञा क्यों नहीं है?
WHY are WOMEN not permitted to study the VEDAS ?
Several lady- members of the Congress party came to meet Gurudev to take His blessings.
There was an interactive talk with these ladies and during this session one of them asked an important question.
“Prabhu, I think that in our Samskriti women have not been given justice!!”
Gurudev asked-“How?”
She replied-“ The ladies do not have the liberty to read the Vedas! Why is that so?”
Gurudev replied-“ Listen, you have to understand this and pay attention to what it actually means!”
“ How ?” was the natural reaction of the lady .
Gurudev answered-“ There was a father who had two sons.
One of the two was totally immersed in Studies and the other one looked after the family matters.
He would work for the house all day long and would assist his parents in several of their duties.
One day the father called both his sons and said that I want both of you to memorize 20 mantras from the Vedas by this evening and chant them for me.
The child who always spent his time in Vedic Studies memorised the 20 mantras by evening but the other son was busy in the house all day long and was unable to do the task of memorising the mantras.
Tell me would it be appropriate for the father to scold the son who was not able to memorise the mantras?”
The lady who had questioned replied-“ Of course not! “
The other ladies also agreed!
Gurudev said _”In the same manner the lady of the house whether she is the mother or the sister devotes her time to attend to the household chores all day long. During the Vedic period there were no taps for filling the water nor were there machines to grind the wheat. The butter also did not come from the Dairy like it does these days.
The ladies would wake up while it was still dark during the early hours of the morning and begin their duties. They would give fodder to the cows and then milk the cows.
Then they would go to the river or the lakeside to take a bath and fill pots of water and bring them home for everyone to drink.
If there was no river nearby they would draw water from the well. If there was any old person in the house or a small baby , a disabled or an injured person in the house they would bring water home for their needs.
They would churn butter, grind the wheat and corn and cook the meals. After a short rest in the afternoon they would clean the harvest brought from the fields, make thread from the cotton and from that thread weave the cloth and make clothes.
They would also have to take care of the guests and then feed the family members in the evening. All these various duties had to be performed by the women in those days!
Now you only tell me if the women also devoted their time to Vedic Studies like the Men and were asked to memorize the Mantras then would they not be over worked with the various responsibilities?”
The lady said-“ Yes, Prabhu. Surely the load of work would increase and perhaps all the ladies may not have been able to manage !”
Gurudev explained-“Therefore our ancestors in their wisdom and foresight did not put on the added responsibility of Vedic Studies on the women.”
The obvious question was put up. “ So can we ladies not read and study the Vedic mantras?”
Gurudev answered-“ Why not Behan! In the Vedas itself there are 27 such women who are called Rishikas. All these 27 women were the Seers of Ved Mantras. They had the darshan of Ved Mantras.
Now you all only tell me how can the ladies who have been Seers be denied the studies of the Vedas? If all of you so desire, you too can study the Vedas.”
This was the concluding reply given by Gurudev.
मुख. मंत्री श्री बाबुभाई पटेल से मुलाकात:
MEETING with THE CHIEF MINISTER SHRI BABUBHAI PATEL.
On 30th October Gurudev went to VallabhVidya Nagar and stayed at the residence of the Vice Chancellor Shri Raman Bhai Patel.
The Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri BabuBhai Jassbhai Patel came for darshan of Gurudev.
Gurudev and Shri Babu Bhai had talks related to the matters of politics.
On that day was the BHAGWAN VED Sthapana at the Vallabh-Vidya Nagar by the Governor Shri K.K. Vishwanathan on the occasion of the centenary Celebrations of Shri Vallabh Bhai Patel.
There were Pravachans by Shri Chiman Bhai, Shri Raman Bhai and Shri GulabBehan.
On the 1st of November Gurudev proceeded to Baroda from Vallabh Vidya Nagar and stayed at the home of His dear devotee Shri Magan Bhai Patel of Dinesh Mills. After a one day stay of rest Gurudev went to Vrindavan on 2nd November.
वृन्दावन में दीपोत्सवी:
DEEPAWALI in VRINDAVAN.
On 2nd of November was Deepawali.
The next day was the Utsav of ANNAKUT.
On 31st October was the Poorna Aahuti of the Bhagwat Saptah kept by Shri Damodar Chainrai, Shri Madhuri Maata, Shri Mathuradas and Vishni Behan. The Kathakaar was Pujya Shri Mool Behariji.
As has been explained earlier there have been Ved Parayans at many different places because of the inspiration given by Gurudev.
This is the result of the Shubh Sankalp of great Men. It is for this reason that Vrindavan is the centre for several spiritual activities.
On 7th of October, there was a meeting of Teachers under the auspices of Gurudev . Everyone was duly honoured and given Dakshina at the end of the meeting.
भगवान से भगवान की कामना करो
DESIRE BHAGWAN from BHAGWAN.
During the stay in Vrindavan one of the devotees had the good opportunity to ask Gurudev some questions.
The devotee was very happy and fortunate to get this occasion of solitude with Gurudev and in his excitement he blurted out—”I have received extreme grace from Bhagwan. During my childhood I was very poor. I got a Sadguru like yourself! You looked after all my needs and even taught me! With the grace of the Guru I was able to get a good job also a wife and children thereafter.
In short, Prabhu, I got everything that I asked for in life! I was able to obtain whatever I required in life.
Prabhu, tell me the mystery behind this?”
At first Gurudev started laughing and then said-“ Beta, the Leela of Nand Nandan is indeed strange! Your Ishwar Bhakti, Guru Shradhha, and Sant Seva should continue to prosper is the reason that the you have been progressing in life granted by Bhagwan. But never forget one thing! These are all products of Maya! You cannot get Mukti from this Samsara with all these achievements and things!”
The devotee was bewildered –“ Then why does He give us all these things?”
Gurudev explained—” Beta, I just told you that the Leela of Nand Nandan is unique and unfathomable. He grants His devotees all that they ask for so that they do not ask for HIM!
If a devotee JUST asks God for HIM then He will surely do that! Just like He came for His devotee Prahlad !”
The questioner asked-“ Then tell me Gurudev what should a devotee ask for?”
Gurudev replied-“ Beta, ask Bhagwan or pray to Him that He, Himself comes to you.
Bhagwan se Bhagwan Ki Kaamna Karo!
When you leave aside all the material things of the world and ask Bhagwan to give HIMSELF to you He will surely come running to you! So long as the Vaasnas ( the desires ) of the world are nurtured in the mind Ishwar will remain far away from you! Therefore, in your state of intoxicated Bhakti desire ISHWAR and not all the mundane things of the world! You should also know that once you have known Ishwar there is nothing in this world that is अप्राप्य UNOBTAINABLE!
The entire world can be yours for the asking! The eight Siddhis and nine Nidhis would be at your service at all times ( prosperity and achievements are easily procured ). अष्ट सिद्धि नवनिधि would serve you all the time!
Note :=
Siddhis means the fulfilment of any effort.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali states that Siddhis are attained by Janma ( birth) Aushadi ( drugs), Mantra( sacred word) Tapas ( austerity ) and Samadhi ( perfect concentration).
The eight Siddhis –the Supernatural powers gained by Sadhanas ( yogic exercises and spiritual practices) are–
ANIMA- Power to assume minute forms.
MAHIMA-Power to expand to huge proportions.
GARIMA-Power to grow heavy.
LAGHIMA-_Power to become light or weightless.
PRAPTI-Capacity to obtain even the most difficult things.
PRAKAMYA- Having irresistible will.
ISHITVA- Perfect mastery over the Body, Senses and capacity to create and destroy outside objects.
VASITVA-Full control over the movement of physical objects.
NIDHIS are treasures belonging to Kubera.
Mahapadma: Great lotus flower
Padma: Lotus/ a Himalayan lake with treasures
Shankha: Conch shell
Makara: Crocodile
Kachchhapa: Tortoise or turtle shell
Mukunda: Cinnabar/ Quick Silver
Kunda: Jasmine
Nila: Sapphire
Kharva: Cups, vessels baked in fire
In the Hanuman Chalisa we read that Hanuman had Asht Sidhis and Nav Nidhis.
However, for a Sadhak these Siddhis and Nidhis can be an obstacle in their Sadhana. and therefore one should not strive for them.
श्री कृष्ण सर्व के आधार
SHRI KRISHNA is the SUPPORTER of everything!
The Supporter of the Vrindavan Bhoomi is Shri Krishna. He is the कर्णाधार ( -the one who steers the Ship or the one who has the ability to do everything ).
All the Moveable and immoveable objects in the world are all supported by our dear Prabhu –Shri Krishna Chandra Bhagwan.
A human being constantly desires something or the other! Wife, wealth, son, vehicle, fame, name and fame, victory etc are all that a Human Being desires for all the time!
The question is how far can all of these desires be fulfilled???
The answer is very simple!
In Shri Krishna!
The Gopis went to the Lord because of their love, Kans remembered Krishna out of fear, Shishupal out of jealousy, and several Rishis and Sants because of their Bhakti—all went to the Lord and got Mukti in one way or the other!
You may recall that Prabhu has a Sudarshan Chakra in His hand that rotates all the time and this Chakra has a message for us.
The name is SU-DARSHAN
Look at this –it has a beautiful ( SU) darshan ( form).
When we see the Sudarshan Chakra we get inspiration that Prabhu is also beautiful like the Sudarshan Chakra and on the move at all times and gives life to all the creation. He is the centre of the entire creation and keeps it going!
Prabhu’s Ras Leela also indicate the same –
He is at the centre and the Gopis move around Him.
This shows that Prabhu is the focal point of the moveable and immoveable world and the entire creation moves around Him.
We can benefit, if we take refuge at His feet.
स्तुति से बन्धमुक्ति ( वेद कथा का आध्यातमिक रहस्य)
Freedom from bondage by Stutis. (The metaphysical meaning behind the Ved Katha).
One day a devotee asked Gurudev-
“Can the Stutis( prayers) free us from all bondages?”
Gurudev replied-“ Surely! Beta!”
“How?” was the other question.
“There is a Katha in the Vedas. Once a Rishi named Rebh was caught in the noose of an Asura and was thrown into a well. He remained there for ten days and for that entire period he was most unhappy. Finally, he got fed up and earnestly prayed to the Ashwinis.” replied Gurudev.
“What happened after he said the Stutis?” asked the devotee.
“What do you think must have happened? Bhagwan, always has the motherly love for all His children and that is why He arrived immediately after listening to the Stutis and freed the Rishi. He removed him from the dark well .” concluded Gurudev.
The devotee asked-“Is there some secret in this story?”
Gurudev replied-“The words of the Vedas are full of mysticism. Rebh Rishi in the story symbolises the Human Being.
Greed, Anger , Desires are the Asuras.
These Asuras tie up the Human Being and throw him in the well ( the world). When the desire arise in the Human being to free himself from this bondage he automatically cries out to Bhagwan, who immediately responds and liberates him!”
“You mentioned that Rebh was in the well for ten days. Please tell me what these TEN days signify.” said the devotee.
There are 5 senses of Knowledge ज्ञानेन्द्रिय and 5 senses of Action and the total become 10.
The ten days in the story denote that the Human being is entangled in each of these ten Senses and when he gets Vairagya ( dispassion ) from these senses he approaches Prabhu and prays and chants Stutis and finally in the end, gets Mukti with the Kripa of Nand Nandan.”
Gurudev has great reverence for the Cow, Brahmins and Learned Scholars and holds them in great esteem.
It is for this reason that Gurudev has special connection with those scholars who are constantly immersed in Svadhya ( study of the Shastras). स्वाध्याय-रत विद्वान.
Ever since BHAGWAN VED has got the Epic Book form and become Saakar the Vedic Brahmins have been infused with a new effulgence. There is no doubt about this!
The Dharma Rishis of Bharat, those who know the Vedas received the light from BHAGWAN VED and sprung back into action now that they have finally got the Book form of the Vedas.
The happiness seems to denote the joy experienced when a lost treasure is found or when a dying person comes across the Sanjeevani Plant that gives a new lease of life.
Among the many Vedic Scholars who are like the many stars in the sky ( the Nakshatra Mandal) Gurudev is like the full moon lending brilliance to the horizon.
Smt Ratan Behan says-
“Once I was reading the ब्रह्मवित्सूक्त-ब्रह्मा ब्रह्म दधातु मे in the Bhagwan Ved Granth when suddenly a thought occurred to me in the form of desire.”
“Hey Ved Murti Guru, take me to that place where the Brahm Gyanis go because of their intense penance and knowledge. Please take me to that place and give Brahm Gyan to me also!”
On the 8th of November Pandit Ras Behariji started the Bhagwat Katha at the Shrout Muni Ashram in Vrindavan which was organised by Bhai Bhuramal Agarwal, Bajrangi and Mani Behan.
The Ved Shivir also started when Pandit Shri Rishi Shankar ji came from Kaashi.
On 11th of November was Gopashtami day and the prayers were performed to Banke Behari ji and a Ved Parayan lasting for 21 days commenced.
On 16th of November, was the Poorna Aahuti of the Bhagwat organised by Seth Bhuramal.
On 30th November was a Sabha for members of the Ved Shivir and for the teachers. There were several Pravachans during this function.
On the next day the 21 day Ved Parayan concluded.
On 3rd December, all the students and the teachers went to the Banke Behari Mandir for darshan and offered Prasad and garlands of flowers and also chanted Vedic Mantras and the sweet and melodious chants from Saam Ved.
On 8th of November Gurudev went to the ashram of Prabhupad Bhakti Vedant Swami.
In the evening Gurudev participated in the Mukund Hari ji’s Utsav and gave darshan to the people.
कलकत्त्ता में
IN CALCUTTA.
The Calcutta devotee Shri Ram Lubhaya is a Param Bhakt and Sevak of Gurudev.
On 9th December Gurudev arrived in Calcutta from Vrindavan to attend the wedding of Shri Lubhaya ji’s son. On the 11th and on the 13th was the wedding of Shri Lubhaya ji’s two sons.
Pramod with Nisha
Praveen with Renu.
Gurudev attended the wedding and blessed both the newly- weds.
On the same day Shri Bhagraj’s son was also married.
On the 18th of December on the day of Geeta Jayanti there was a Geeta Paath, Pooja and a Pravachan on the teachings of the Geeta.
This was held at AMAR BHAWAN.
पितेव पुत्रस्य सखेव सखयुः
On the occasion of Geeta Jayanti Gurudev in His Pravachan said-
“Friends,the relationship between the Vedas and the Geeta is like that of mother and daughter!
Sometimes you must have seen in life that the daughter looks so much like her mother in many ways.
Her body, her skin colour, height and also in her behaviour the daughter is like the mother and often copies her. Sometimes she even uses the exact same words spoken by her mother or changes a few words here and there!
The Samskaars given by the mother are deeply rooted in the daughter.
Samskaras are the mental impressions left by all thoughts, actions and intents that an individual has ever experienced.
They are there in every nerve of hers!
Ved Maata and Geeta are also the same!
The Geeta speaks the words of the Vedas! ( just like the daughter speaks the words of her mother ).
For example, let us take one mantra from the Vedas and one Shloka from the Geeta to establish this fact.
आ हि ष्मा सूनवे पितापिर्यजत्यापये।
सखा सख्ये वरेण्यः॥
( ऋ.वे. १—२६—३ )
वरेण्यः—worthy of praise. Most Excellent.
पिता—like the Father.
सूनवे—to the Son.
या आपिः -Friend or a dear one
आपये-to the friend or to his dear one
सखा-friend
सख्ये-to the friend
हि ष्म-always
आ यजति – grants the wishes
IN THE SAME WAY HEY AGNI DEVA!
Hey Paramatma! You also grant us what we desire ( अभीष्ट ).
MEANING of Mantra:— Just as a father to his son, a friend to his friend and a lover to his beloved grants everything in the same way Hey Paramatma you also grant us all that we desire. This is our prayer!
After reading the Mantra from the Vedas let us read see what the Bhagwat Geeta says-
After Arjuna has seen the Vishwa Roop of Bhagwan he has come to know the real Swaroop of Prabhu, therefore he prays to Prabhu and says-
तस्मात्प्रणम्य प्रणिधाय कायं
प्रसादये त्वामहमीशमीड्यम् |
पितेव पुत्रस्य सखेव सख्यु:
प्रिय: प्रियायार्हसि देव सोढुम् ||
tasmāt praṇamya praṇidhāya kāyaṁ
prasādaye tvām aham īśham īḍyam
piteva putrasya sakheva sakhyuḥ
priyaḥ priyāyārhasi deva soḍhum
SHREEMAD BHAGWAT GEETA
CHAPTER 11-SHLOKA 44.
tasmāt तस्मात् —therefore;
kāyam कायम्—my body;
praṇidhāya प्रणिधाय —prostrating —Dandavat on the Prithvi
praṇamya प्रणम्य —bowing down – doing Namaskaar.
īḍyam ईड्यम् —worthy of prayers/ Stutis.
īśham ईशम्—Ishwar
tvām त्वाम् —your;
prasādaye प्रसादये —I please you
deva देव—Lord- Hey Deva!
putrasya पुत्रस्य—of the Son
pitā—पिता father;
iva इव —like the /AS
LIKE THE FATHER FORGIVES HIS SON.
sakhyuḥ सख्युः— A friend with a
sakhā सखा—friend;
iva इव—like the /AS
LIKE A FRIEND FORGIVES HIS FRIEND.
priyāyāḥ प्रियायाः—with the beloved;
priyaḥ प्रियः—a lover;
LIKE THE LOVING WIFE IS FORGIVEN BY HER BELOVED.
soḍhum सोढुम्—forgive
arhasi अर्हसि—you should;
PLEASE FORGIVE ME.
YOU ARE CAPABLE OF FORGIVING ME !
Learned men must note that Geeta Maata has used the words of Ved Maata and thereby established the firm relationship between the two and made us aware of this truth.
The words of the Ved mantra पिता सूनवे, आपिः आपयेः and
सखा और् सख्ये have been replaced by पितेव पुत्रस्य प्रिय: प्रियाया:
We see that these words are quite similar and mean the same.
BHAGWAN VED calls Ishwar वरेण्यः – worthy of Praise.
In the Geeta Prabhu is called इश and ईड्य
These words also express the different Bhavs ( sentiments ) that are expressed in the mantras of the Vedas in several places.
Now I will tell you the most important aspect of this Shloka!
The father tolerates the mistakes of his son and even forgives him and this Bhav/ sentiment can be seen in the VATSALYA Bhakti वात्सल्य भक्ति of the Bhakti Marg.
A friend forgives a friend—this is SAKHYA Bhakti .सख्य भक्ति
The lover forgives the beloved—this is MADHURYA or KANTA Bhakti माधुर्य / कान्ता भक्ति
In just one mantra of the Vedas and in one mantra of the Geeta three kinds of Bhaktis are illustrated ( द्योतन ) very clearly ( समुचित रुप ).
Further on we may add that we often see that the daughter is always one step ahead of the mother.
By that same adage we see that Geeta ji has used the word प्रणिधाय कायं and by doing so has expressed one more ‘Bhav’ than Ved Maata.
The other Bhav expressed in the Geeta is VANDAN Bhakti .वन्दन भक्ति
We can also call this as DASYA Bhav. दास्य भक्ति
जयन्ती पर बम्बई में
IN BOMBAY FOR THE JAYANTI.
On 27th December Gurudev arrived in Bombay by air for the Janm Jayanti Utsav.
On 25th of December Gurudev gave His blessings at the wedding of Chiranjeevi Bharati Manohar.
On the next day Gurudev gave BHAGWAN VED as prasad to Shri Shv Shankar Apte ji in Poona.
On 29th of December Swami Krishnanand and Swami Govindanandji commenced the Ramayan Paath at Tulsi Nivas as part of the Jayanti Utsav.
The katha was very engrossing and the recitation of the Ramayana very pleasing to the ears! The people sat captivated from morning to evening listening to the Katha and never seemed to tire !
On the 6th of January 1976 was the Poorna Aahuti of the Ramayan Paath, followed by Arati and distribution of Prasad.
There was Brahman Bhojan also after the completion of the Paath.
९५वीं जन्म जयन्ती
95th JANM JAYANTI.
7th January 1976 Paush Shukla Saptami day was the 95th Janm Jayanti of Gurudev.
Like every year, all the devotees gathered in Bhai Balchand’s house at Warden Road where everyone offered their Pooja and Arati.
From 6 am in the morning till 12 pm in the afternoon there were huge crowds of devotees offering flowers, fruits and gifts to Gurudev.
In the evening the celebrations were at Tulsi Nivas.
Sants were seated on the stage on either side of Gurudev.
It appeared as if the Nakshatras were surrounding the Moon!
The crowds watched this pleasing sight and had the good fortune to have Sant Darshan.
Param Bhakt and exponent in Kirtan Shri Ram Panjwani, Param Shri Krishna Premi Daleeliji sang beautiful bhajans.
The atmosphere was charged with their kirtan and it seemed that it was Vrindavan Dham here and now!
The devotees of Shri Krishna receive the nectar from the Kirtan which gives them the opportunity to remove all the blemishes within their Inner Self.
The sweet voice of the Kirtan Singers spread the soft light of the moonlight and created waves of joy in the hearts of the devotees.
The glory ( Mahima) of Krishna Sankirtan is so aptly described in the following words —
चेतोदर्पणमार्जनं भवमहादावाग्निनिर्वापणं
श्रेयः कैरवचन्द्रिकावितरणं विद्यावधूजीवनम्।
आनन्दाम्बुधिवर्धनं प्रतिपदं पूर्णामृतास्वादनं
सर्वात्मस्नपनं परं विजयते श्रीकृष्णसंकीर्तनम्।
( श्री चैतन्य चरितावली )
Meaning:-
That which purifies the impurities that are on the mirror of the Antah karana, that quietens the fire of agony and sorrows of the Samsara, that which has the ability to distribute the softenss of the Moon light, give knowledge, that which helps cross over the Samsara of life, distributing nectar at every step and that which bathes the Atma with the awareness of the SELF, is the SANKIRTAN of Shri Krishna.
The Jayanti celebrations concluded with Gurudev’s Ashirwad followed by Arati and Prasad distribution.
Till 5th june
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