Sri Swamiji’s 58th birthday was celebrated in Datta Peetham from 11th June to 18th June. Earlier, a one-week camp of Children Jnana Bodha Sabha was conducted.

Vidyarthi Jnana Bodha Sabha

This summer workshop for children is being conducted every year during summer holidays to inculcate cultural, moral and spiritual values in children who come to Datta Peetham regularly. The number of students taking part in this summer camp is increasing year by year. This year, 297 children participated. They were divided into two age groups. There were 51 boys and 54 girls in the juniors’ group whereas there were 100 boys and 92 girls in the seniors’ group.

The camp was inaugurated on 4th June at 10 a.m.. Sri Swamiji asked the youngest boy and the youngest girl to light the inaugural lamp. All the students sang "Jaya Jaya Jnana Bodha Sabha" in chorus.

Sri Swamiji gave useful instructions to children in the inaugural address.

Children’s duties

Children should first develop discipline. They should give due importance to health also. We commit many mistakes without our knowledge. We should make conscious effort to rectify them and become ideal citizens.
Some children have the habit of biting nails. Biting nails will reduce memory power. It makes way for many diseases. Therefore you should give up that habit. Some people have the habit of biting their tongue or lips. This is also a bad habit.
Some people have the habit of shaking the legs while sitting on the chair. This will cause some problems in the Mooladhara Chakra. General health will also suffer. Some people have the habit of winking frequently. This is bad for the eyes.
Some people drink some water with every morsel of food. This will cause throat problems and gas problems. Water should be taken either before or after the meal in the required quantity. The food intake must also be regulated. Our ancient scriptures have explained in detail about all this. I can detect the disease of a person by just knowing his/her habits.
Erring children are my assets. To correct them is my job. But they should try to follow what is taught to them. If they don’t follow, I will not punish them. It is up to them to preserve their relationship with me. The Guru-disciple relationship should be carefully guarded all the time. Jaya Guru Datta.

The workshop was full of useful activities which aimed at personal development, improvement of personal and social hygiene, and improvement of memory, cleanliness and other aspects useful for children. There were lectures on different topics such as Guru Gita, Yoga, Sri Swamiji’s biography and the scientific achievements of ancient Indians. Sri Radhakrishna, Prof.Krishna Kumar and Sri Seetaram were in charge of organizing the camp.

On 10th June, the workshop concluded. The valedictory function was held at 10 a.m. Addressing the children, Sri Swamiji said

Develop tolerance
Students should develop strict discipline. Taking bath in cold water, sleeping on the floor are some austere practices. You should be able to manage even if there is no electricity and television. You should always have thoughts that are divine and sacred. You should have gratitude for your parents.

King Dasharatha sent his children Rama and Lakshmana to Vasishtha’s hermitage in a very tender age itself. They did not have even the basic comforts there. Still they endured the hardships for 12 years, during which time they used to eat whatever was available in the forest. Only when the disciples show such forbearance, they will earn the Guru’s blessings.

Today, in our Ashram, we are providing all the basic amenities. But you should try to stay here without using them. That is a Sadhana in itself. You should make it a point to attend the annual workshop in the Ashram every year. Then you will develop the strength to face hardships. You will also develop intimacy with Swamiji. Your power of concentration will also increase. You will do well in studies.

Bhakti Mala contains many valuable articles. You should read, understand and follow their messages.

Try to curtail unnecessary friendships. When you share your experiences (that you had with Swamiji) with others, exercise constraint.

Practice what you have learnt here. Only then the time you spent here will yield the desired results.

Veda Exams

Annual Veda Examinations began on 8th June. This is the seventh year in succession that the Peetham is conducting Veda Examinations. Students from different states had come to participate. Scholars from other states were also invited to officiate as examiners. In His inaugural speech, Sri Swamiji extolled the greatness of the Vedas and said that those who studied the Vedas were indeed divine beings.

The examinations were conducted in the Nada Mantapa for three days. This year, Shukla Yajurveda was also included.

On 11th June, on the auspicious day of the commencement of Sri Swamiji’s birthday celebration, the Veda Examinations concluded and the successful examinees were awarded certificates and cash prizes. Traveling expense of all the students who had appeared for the examination was borne by the Peetham.

Conclusion of Veda Examination
The valedictory function of the Veda Examination was attended by dignitaries such as Sri R.Venkataraman, former President of India and the Chairman of the 58th Birthday Celebrations, Sri Y.Bhaskara Rao, the Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court, Smt. Manjula Chellur, the first ever woman judge of Karnataka High Court and Justice Sri Rajendra Prasad and Sri Sudhir. The Examiners and the students were seated on the other side of the stage. Selected hymns from the four Vedas were chanted.
‘Pavamana Pooyamana Kramapatha’, a Vedic book, compiled by Sri Venkatakrishna Bhat (who has been conferred the title ‘Veda Nidhi’) and brought out by Datta Peetham was released by Sri Swamiji on this auspicious occasion. Sri Bhat was felicitated on this occasion.

Dr.P.V.Nath, a medical practitioner from UK has abridged and translated Sri Swamiji’s biography into English. This 300 page book was released on this sacred occasion by Sri R.Venkataraman.

In His benedictory speech, Sri Swamiji said, "Students should be given the highest knowledge. It is the best gift a Guru can give. The students should never give up the study of the Vedas and chanting of the Gayatri Mantra. They should also give due

importance to basic daily austerities.
"An extraordinary energy is flowing in the Ashram. It is the same energy that is guiding Swamiji. May that energy become available to the Veda teachers and thestudents."

Volunteers’ Parade

As a part of the birthday celebrations, Volunteers’ parade took place on 10th June. Sri Swamiji expressed appreciation for the volunteers who took out this parade even amidst rain.
The volunteers were given uniforms on this occasion.

Inauguration of 58th birthday celebrations

On 11th June, in the evening, the inaugural function of the birthday celebrations was held in the Nada Mantapa. His Holiness Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri participated as the chief guest. Sri R.Venkataraman, the former President of India was also seated on the stage. The birthday celebration was inaugurated by Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji by lighting the lamp. Many important releases (of publications) took place on this occasion. They are:
Sri Datta Venkata Sannidhi – video cassette (Telugu and English Versions) containing the consecration ceremonies of Datta Venkateshwara Temple.
Sri Datta Venkata Vaibhavam – audio cassette containing the Datta Venkateshwara Suprabhatam and other selected hymns sung by Rajakumar Bharati.
Bhajana Yogamu (Vol-3) (Telugu Book) a collection of Sri Swamiji’s Bhajans hitherto unpublished.
Sri Guru Samhita - Hindi translation of the original work (in Telugu by Sri Swamiji). Sri Bheemasen Nirmal has done the translation work. This book has been brought out by the Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Vagdevi Trust, Hyderabad.
The above four items were released by His Holiness Poojya Sri Swamiji.
Srimadramayana Katha Sravanti – a 31 volume audio cassette collection of Sri Swamiji’s live discourse on Ramayana in Telugu.
Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Kriti Mani Mala – a book containing 100 compositions of Sri Swamiji. Dr.Padma Murthy, an eminent musicologist has given the musical notations (according to Indian music) to these compositions so that musicians and the students of music may learn and render the compositions in the same tune as Sri Swamiji has sung.
The above two items were released by His Holiness Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji.
Sadguru Sookti Sangraha – a book in English containing Sri Swamiji’s Sooktis. Compiled by Prof.Krishan Kumar.
The Visible Almighty – a book containing poems about Sri Swamiji written by a devotee.

First Brahmotsava of Sri Datta Venkateswara

While the inaugural function of the 58th birthday celebrations was going on, the priests had completed the Vishwaksena Homa. They arrived in the Nada Mantapa with the Kankana (bracelet) to be worn by Sri Swamiji. His Holiness Sri Bala Gangadharanath Swamiji tied the Kankana to Sri Swamiji’s wrist. This marked the commencement of the first Brahmotsava celebrations, which went on till the 16th as per Vaikhanasa tradition. The following important events took place in connection with the Brahmotsava.
Shanti Kalyana on 12th
Garudotsava on 13th
Rathotsava on 14th
Abhisheka to Lord Dhanvantari on 15th
Teppotsava on 15th evening
On 16th June, Jyeshthabhisheka took place. The Brahmotsava concluded with the Maha Mangala Arati in the afternoon of 16th.

Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji’s speech
Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji, the pontiff of Adi Chunchanagiri Mutt, addressing the gathering praised Sri Swamiji for the wonderful work. Datta Peetham today is synonymous for innovations and progress in the spiritual field. In a way, it can be called as the spiritual Disneyland – where you can see spiritual wonders.
He also praised Sri Swamiji for His relentless efforts in upholding Vedic values and for His enormous contribution to the field of music. "Sri Swamiji has succeeded in bringing the gods of music to Datta Peetham so that the devotees can have the divine experience of music" the pontiff of Adichuncnanagiri said. He also expressed happiness for having participated in the 58th birthday celebrations of Sri Swamiji. He said that the devotees were really fortunate to have a Sadguru like Sri Swamiji.
He congratulated Sri Swamiji for installing the Dharma Dhwaja and said that it stood as a testimony to Sri Swamiji’s magnanimity and vision.

After this, Poojya Sri Swamiji addressed the gathering.

Poojya Sri Swamiji’s speech
Sri Bala Gangadharanatha Swamiji is very intimate to me. He has been visiting the Ashram since the early days of the Ashram. He has come here today even though He had a very busy schedule. In fact He has flown directly to Mysore from a village in Andhra Pradesh, where he was presently touring. This shows the degree of affinity He has for this Peetham.

Devotees throng to Datta Peetham in search of peace of mind. When a devotee caught in turmoil comes to me for help, I ask him/her to read ‘Datta Darshana’. Many devotees have reported that they found answers to their problems in that book.
Miracles are not important. Swamiji brings about purity of heart. This is more important.

All of you who have assembled here to participate in the celebrations are indeed fortunate. Everything that takes place is strictly traditional and has scientific meaning. Swamiji’s intention is to explain the essence of Dharma in a modern way. Jaya Guru Datta.
The inaugural function concluded with the chanting of Datta Stava after Sri Swamiji’s speech.

Pratyaksha Pada Pooja

12th June was Ekadashi day, Sri Swamiji’s birthday according to Hindu Calendar. After Srichakra Pooja and Purnahuti, sweets were distributed. The devotees had arranged a huge cake weighing 58 kilograms. Some devotees had brought 58 pieces of special sweets from Tirupati. All these were distributed as Prasadam among those who had gathered there. After this, Sri Swamiji inaugurated the toilet and bathroom complex built at a cost of 4 million rupees.

At 10 a.m., Sri Swamiji arrived in a procession and was received by the devotees in the Nada Mantapa. The devotees burst in to rapture when Sri Swamiji ascended the Audumbara Silver Throne placed on the stage.

Sri Prasad, Sri Harsha Sharma and other Ashram inmates performed the Pratyaksha Pada Pooja. The Prasadam of the first Brahmotsava was offered to Sri Swamiji.
Sri Swamiji then wore the gem studded golden crown. Sri Nagaphani Sharma, a renowned poet presented poems in praise of Sadguru Sri Swamiji. Sri Swamiji blessed Sri Chandrashekhara Sharma, Asthana Vidwan of Datta Peetham with a golden bracelet. Sri Chandrashekhara Sharma has accepted an invitation from the pontiff of Siddheshwari Peetham in Kurtalam to be the teacher of the future Peethadhipati there. Sri Swamiji also blessed Sri Telakapalli Vishwanatha Sharma.
In the evening Sri Swamiji conducted a scintillating Bhajan session and gave thought provoking speech. He insisted that every one should make use of the herbal bath arranged in Datta Peetham. ‘The herbal bath water is sanctified with more than 250 crystals and 72 herbs. In addition to it, it carries the vibrations of Swamiji. It has powerful healing energies’ Sri Swamiji said.

12-6-2000

After Srichakra Pooja and Purnahuti in the morning, Sri Swamji released the following items:
Jnana Sagara (Pearls of wisdom) English translation of Sri Swamiji’s speeches in Telugu telecast daily by Gemini Television Channel. The translation has been done by Sri P.G.Krishna Murthy of Machilipatnam.
Mystic in Dattatreya Tradition – a book compiled by Sri Radhakrishna and Sri Subramanyam. Gives a brief introduction of Datta Peetham.
Bhajana Yogamu Vivriti – containing commentary in Telugu on some selected Bhajans composed by Sri Swamiji. Sri Vedantam Kumara Swamy has given the commentary.
In the morning, Dr.N.Ramani, an eminent flutist gave a wonderful concert.
Sri Nittala Shatrughna Rao and his family members conducted ‘Burrakatha’ (a folk style rendering of a scripture) of Sri Swamiji’s biography.
In the evening, Sri Swamiji sang bhajans.

14-6-2000

After the routine Pooja and Homa in the morning, an instrumental music concert was held in Nada Mantapa by Sri Ullas Bapat (Santoor) and Sri Narayana (Veena).
In the evening, there was Divya Nama Sankeertana by Sri Swamiji. Many reputed musicians accompanied Sri Swamiji in this programme. (Sri Kumaresh and Sri Ganesh on violin, Sri Bhaktavatsalam on Mridangam and Sri Anando Chatarjee on Tabala).
In the afternoons (14th June to 17th June), eminent scholars conducted Question and Answer sessions, in which they answered various spiritually related questions of the devotees.

15-6-2000

Srichakra Puja and Homa were performed in the morning.
At 10 a.m., Sri Ganesh and Sri Kumaresh gave a wonderful violin-duet concert in which they played many Bhajans composed by Sri Swamiji. At the end of the concert, ‘Brahma’, a audio cassette containing Sri Swamiji’s Bhajans rendered by this duo was released by Sri Swamiji. Sri Swamiji expressed happiness at the performance of these young and dedicated musicians.

Inauguration of Dharma Dhwaja
Dharma Dhwaja is a unique structure conceived by Sri Swamiji. The aim is to highlight the essence of all religions in a unique and novel way. It took three years to complete this 60 feet monolithic structure. The purpose of this structure is not only to display the salient features of all religions, but to also demonstrate that the essence of all religions is the same.

Sri Swamiji inaugurated this pillar on 15th June at 6.30 in the evening. Sri Swamiji also switched on the sound-light-fountain show that is designed to narrate the meaning and message of the pillar. This show lasts for 40 minutes and the entire description is as though the pillar is explaining to the audience what it stood for. It is indeed a feast to the eyes. The narration is given in three languages – Kannada, Telugu and English.

Before the inauguration, Sri Prasad, the executive trustee gave a detailed description of the preparations and efforts behind this magnificent structure. Speaking on this occasion, Sri Swamiji said that sculpting this structure was a real test of patience and talent for the 120 odd sculptures who toiled for nearly three years under the able guidance of Sri Muthu Kannan. Sri Swamiji declared that they had come out with flying colours.

Sri Muthu Kannan, the chief sculptor was felicitated on this occasion and Sri Swamiji conferred on him the title ‘Asthana Shilpi’ (court sculptor). His assistants were also blessed with special prasadam.

After this, Sri Swamiji watched the first ever show of the Dharma Dhwaja. Sri R.Venkataraman was alongside Sri Swamiji during the first show.

Teppotsava (Raft Festival)
After the inauguration of the Dharma Dhwaja, Sri Swamiji proceeded to the Saptarshi Teertha (pond) behind the Venkateshwara Temple. There, the raft festival was celebrated with much grandeur. A music group that had come especially to participate in the festivities, played several Bhajans of Sri Swamiji and won the appreciation of the thousands of devotees who had gathered there.
Speaking after the Teppotsava, Sri Swamiji extolled the greatness of chanting the name of ‘Govinda’ and said that even if it is chanted unintentionally, it would yield great benefit. ‘Everyone makes mistakes. If one chants the name of the lord with devotion, all the sins will be washed away’ said Sri Swamiji.

Sri Swamiji warned the devotees about the ‘great sins’ described in our scriptures. He said that insulting the Guru, insulting devotees were as heinous as the Five Great Sins. ‘Becoming depressed and then blaming one’s self is also a sin’ – Sri Swamiji said.

Once we surrender to the Almighty, we should stop keep complaining. We should have total faith that He will navigate us through the ocean of Samsara. In fact, Teppotsava (raft festival) is celebrated to remind us about the fact that we are traveling in a boat navigated by the Almighty.

‘This place is a sacred land. The water here is sacred. So is the air you breath; the food you eat. Even if you do not have complete devotion, the Lord will help you."

16-6-2000

Pavamana Homa began in the Nada Mantapa as early as 5.30 in the morning. Sri Swamiji offered the Purnahuti of Pavamana Homa after the Srichakra Pooja.
Initiation of Bala Swami

Sri Swamiji initiated Sri Harsha, an inmate of the Ashram to a special Deeksha. This is a Deeksha preliminary to Sanyasa Deeksha. Sri Harsha Sharma has been selected by Sri Swamiji to be the future pontiff of Datta Peetham.

The Vedic scholars gave ‘Malapaharana Snana’ (purificatory bath) to Sri Harsha. At this juncture, Sri Swamiji Himself came near the pond and gave him the bath. After this, the "Krichchra Traya Prayashchitta" (a procedure that forms a part of initiation in to Sanyasa) was done. The Vedic scholars blessed him by chanting special mantras.
Speaking on this occasion, Sri Swamiji said that the initiation just then given to Sri Harsha was a preliminary procedure and that it would be followed by Sanyasa in due course of time. Sri Swamiji also instructed the devotees to address Sri Harsha as ‘Bala Swami’ with immediate effect.

Geeta Sachchidananda – Musical Ballet
In the evening, a musical ballet – Geeta Sachchidananda was held in Nada Mantapa. This is based on the composition of Sri Nagaphani Sharma, who has written Sri Swamiji’s biography in poetry form. It was staged by the renowned Oleti Rangamani Troupe. The Jayalakshmi Matru Mandali of Hyderabad had arranged this programme to raise funds to facilitate setting up a kitchen in Mekedatu for the convenience of the devotees who visit that place. The show went on for nearly three hours and won appreciation not only from the audience, but also from Sri Swamiji, who watched the entire show.
After the show, Sri Swamiji went on the stage and distributed prizes to the artists.

17-6-2000

After Srichakra Puja in the morning, Sri Swamiji distributed prizes to the winners of various competitions (sports, bhajans, Bhagavadgita recitation etc.)conducted in connection with the 58th birthday celebrations. Sri Sheetal of Canada won the prestigious Bhajan competition prize.

Jnana Bodha Sabha Conference
The main event of the day was the annual Jnana Bodha Sabha Conference.
Members of all the Jnana Bodha Sabhas (in India) and Datta Yoga Centres (abroad) participated in the conference. Sri Krishna Murthy, Member of Parliament lit the lamp and inaugurated the conference.

Sri G.S.Seetaram, the President of the Mysore Jnana Bodha Sabha welcomed the delegates.

The delegates of various centers submitted their reports and account statements at the Holy feet of Sri Swamiji.

Sri Swamiji, in His benedictory address, described about the various projects and activities that the centers have to conduct in the forthcoming year. (we are giving a list of instructions given by Sri Swamiji for the convenience of the members of different centers.)

Sri Swamiji’s instructions to all the centers
Do not spend too much money on buildings. Build only what is required. If you construct big buildings, their maintenance is going to be very expensive.
Take care of the center in Mysore also.
50% of the revenue generated from the Hundi should be compulsorily sent to Mysore Ashrama.
The Hundi should be opened every week.
Develop love and devotion.
Encourage volunteers. Do not curb the enthusiasm of the volunteers.
Give opportunity to everyone, especially to new comers.
Don’t curb a new comer because you feel that your importance will decrease.
Welcome suggestions from new comers too. Discuss and respect all suggestions.
Do not worry about the character of anyone. It is not your job. Swamiji will look after that.
Give adequate opportunity to youngsters. Train them.
Whenever you conduct any programme, send the photographs along with a report for publishing in Bhakti Mala.
Display the banner of Mysore Center along with your banner whenever you conduct any activity.
Each center should create a fixed deposit to support their activities.
Make it a point to send regular contributions to Mysore Ashrama.
Tulabhara with gold has been scheduled for Swamiji’s 60th birthday. Everyone should contribute for this.
Enroll for ‘Cottage Scheme’.
Keep aside small quantity of rice everyday and send it/ bring it to Ashrama.
Those who wish to visit Ashram when Sri Swamiji is not in Mysore should seek prior permission.
Those devotees who already have a cottage in the Ashrama should intimate before their visit. Only then it will be possible to reserve the cottage.
Be cordial with Ashrama staff members. Do not hurt them.
Those who send regular contribution to Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Trust will be given membership cards.

In the evening, at 5.30, Sri M.S.Gopala Krishnan, a renowned violinist gave a wonderful concert in which he played several compositions of Sri Swamiji.

18-6-2000

Today was the last day of the 58th Birthday Celebrations. Sri Swamiji was brought to Nada Mantapa in a procession. The gathering burst to rapture when Sri Swamiji ascended the Silver Audumbara Throne and wore the gem studded crown. As is the tradition in Datta Peetham, several scholars were honoured with titles.

Name of the recepient	Title
Sri Tangirala Bala Gangadhara Shastri	Veda Nidhi
Dr.N.S.Ramanuja Tatacharya	Shastra Nidhi
Sri M.S.Gopala Krishnan	Nada Nidhi
Sri Utpala Satyanarayana Acharya	Asthana Vidwan
Sri Gandluri Dattatreya Sharma	Asthana Vidwan
Sri Ramacharya	Asthana Shilpi

Each scholar was give a shawl, golden pendant, a citation etched on brass plaque and cash. After the felicitations, Sri Utpala Satyanarayana Acharya presented a collection of poems. Sri Dattatreya Sharma offered his work – Dattatreya- Bhakta Priya, a book in Telugu to Sri Swamiji.

The following books were also released on this occasion.
Nitya Ashrama Prarthana in Hindi
Daiva Vakku (Godword) Vol-3 in Tamil
After this, the devotees were given an opportunity to present their offerings to Sri Swamiji. This programme went on for nearly 4 hours.

Governor’s Visit
The valedictory function of Brahmotsava and Sri Swamiji’s birthday celebrations was held in the evening. Her Excellency Smt.Rama Devi, the honourable Governor of Karnataka, Sri. A.P Mishra (Supreme Court Judge), Sri Vishwanath (Minister for primary education, Karnataka), Sri Narayana (Worshipful Mayor of Mysore City) and other dignitaries participated in this function.

‘Amma Vodi’ (Mother’s Lap) is a special rehabilitation programme conceived by Sri Swamiji with a view to provide shelter to 250 destitute and handicapped women. This project is going to be taken up by the Hyderabad branch of Datta Peetham. In addition to providing rehabilitation, the purpose of the programme is to create spiritual awareness in these unfortunate women. A piece of land has already been procured for this purpose. It has been decided to rise funds quickly so that the programme can take off during the 60th Birthday of Sri Swamiji.

A brochure about this project was released on this occasion by Smt.Rama Devi, the Governor of Karnataka.

Datta Peetham donated a mortuary van to the Mysore City Corporation. The keys of the van ware handed over to the Mayor by the Hon’ble Governor.
Datta Peetham also made a handsome donation of 2 lakhs to the Police Kalyana Bhawan coming up in Mysore. Sri Chandrashekhar, the Commissioner of Police of Mysore received the Cheque from the Hon’ble Governor.

A van was donated to the Hyderabad center to help them in their activities.
To mark the 58th Birthday, 58 different articles were distributed to physically handicapped persons. These included tricycles, sewing machines, hearing aids, artificial limbs etc.

Speaking on this occasion, Her Excellency had special message for women. She said, "Our society stands on the firm foundation called family. There is no substitute to this. Many countries are realizing this fact. The responsibility of safeguarding this family system lies more with women. Even while achieving progress in every field, women should foster the system of family also. It is heartening to note that under the divine guidance of Sri Swamiji, you are forging ahead in this direction."

Sri Vishwanath in his speech praised Sri Swamiji for the social service being rendered by Datta Peetham. He said that it was indeed worthy of imitation and said that the government would extend all possible assistance in this regard.

Sri Swamiji in His benedictory address stressed the importance of love and devotion.

The birthday celebrations and the first Brahmotsava concluded with Sri Swamiji’s benedictory address.