This beautiful day started with a seashore walk by His Holiness Sri Swamiji. As He was walking Pujya Swamiji narrated special prayers and offered respects to the sea. He stood along the seashore while the divine waters of the pacific washed His feet with humility and reverence. Later, Pujya Sri Swamiji hoisted the Indian and American national flags. He wore a tiny flag on the forehead and held both the national flags in both His hands. He spoke high of the motherland India, mentioning, specially the 77 Ashrams established by Him and also applauded the United States of America as a beautiful country. He also mentioned that He missed the motherland India on this day. A group of fifty devotees present there sang the national anthems of India and America followed by salute to the national flags. Later, Pujya Sri Swamiji gave the Independence Day message. Devotees present there were thrilled by His captivating words of advice. Summary of the speech:

"Today, we are celebrating the 62nd Independence Day of India. We are in Hawaii; we are remembering our divine motherland India on this occasion. Today is also the Hawaii state formation day. Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States of America, on this day. What a great coincidence! Every species, everybody and everything in this universe wants to be in a state of freedom. We are all governed by the laws of Nature; however we have a definite role to play in the society as embodiments of the divine. The concept of freedom is essentially close to the understanding of spiritual wisdom. Scriptures and seers talk about freedom of the Jeevatman. This body is essentially composed of the five elements and is perishable. The true spirit in every being is essentially a reflection of the Paramatman. The concept of freedom therefore is not only relating to the physical level but also the spiritual level. The platform for this body, mind and the spirit is this planet earth. We must therefore protect this planet just like we protect our body. This freedom at all levels can be achieved only by constant practice and renunciation i.e. placing the interest of the nation above personal interest. The Indian Tricolour clearly teaches us this aspect. The saffron color reminds us about the sacrifice given by many great souls to achieve this freedom. The white color reflects peace and tranquility and the green color reflects prosperity. The wheel in the center of the flag represents the DHARMA CHAKRA, the path of righteousness. Let us salute to the tricolor in all humility and gratitude and pledge to ourselves that we shall strive for the sake of our country. No freedom will be useful unless it is based on the tenets of Dharma. One must practice righteous living and make effective use of the freedom that has been blessed on us. Swamiji blesses all the resident Indians, non-resident Indians on this occasion and also all the Hawaiians. This beautiful Hawaiian land attained its statehood, on this day. America is a beautiful nation, a land of celestial beings- Gandharvas. Swamiji is very happy that a concert will take place here on Sunday. Swamiji blesses Kailasha, who put in all efforts to set up this stage for the flag hoisting.

Today is also the special Vara Lakshmi Puja (worship of Mother Goddess Lakshmi - Goddess of wealth and prosperity). Let everyone on this planet be showered with health, wealth and prosperity. Swamiji blesses all Veda scholars and students on the sacred Upakarma day (sacred initiation into and recapitulation of scriptures). Today is also a special festival of Raksha Bandhan, a festival to show the affection of brother and sister. May brotherhood blossom in the hearts of one and all on this planet towards fellow countrymen and fellow human beings! Jaya Guru Datta! "

Sri Swamiji, later, visited Pearl Harbor, Honolulu that was bombarded by the Japanese troupes in World War II- 1941. Sri Swamiji, along with a number of devotees boarded the USS Missouri also known as the ‘Mighty Mo’- a huge warship (885feet long, 108 feet wide and 209 feet tall, 48000 tons) with different kinds of warheads, projectiles, and missiles. USS Missouri has a remarkable history of more than five decades from 29 Jan 1944 to 4 May 1998, a living testimony to the surrender treaty of Japanese troupes (2 September 1945) to the allied forces at the end of World War II, and also relates to the Korean War and the Gulf war. Pujya Sri Swamiji silently prayed on the deck of the ship for all the war victims.

Pujya Sri Swamiji visited a handicrafts show room to observe and bless the native culture of Hawaiians. Sri Swamiji appreciated the pure pearls taken out from the oysters. Pujya Swamiji visits the Ruins of Ulupo Heiau temple and Polynesian culture – The history of Hawaii dates back to several centuries, when people from different parts of the globe guided by the astrological constellations canoed into this highly fertile and volcanic area and set up a new civilization. Life of the ancient Hawaiians focused on propitiating the Gods and the various islands housed many temples invoking peace, war, health, profitable fishing and farming. Heiau - the place of worship, ranged from a small house to massive open air temples with idols, large stone platforms and numerous idols. Mapele heiau, the agricultural economy temple is related to the God Lono. Offerings of pig, vegetables and tapa (bark cloth) were made with hopes of guaranteed rains and agricultural fertility and plenty. The luakeini heiau was the large sacrificial government war temple dedicated to kuka’ilimoko (ku).

His Holiness spent some time along with the devotees at the ruins of the Mapele Heiau with a family of descendants of the native Hawaiian Queen. Pujya Swamiji said that the Hawaiian Islands were formed sometime during the churning of the milky ocean by the celestials and demons. The greeting words used by the Hawaiians like Mahalo represents the name of Shiva. There are references in the Mahabharata about some of the concepts used by the native Hawaiians. The sky and earth were considered as the parents for all beings on the earth. Mahalo and Aloha (pronounced as mah’ ah ‘loh and ah’ loh’ ha) are two important words in Hawaiian language.

Alo=presence / face / front; ha=breath i.e. the presence of divine breath. Ma= in; ha=breath; alo = face/ front/ presence i.e. may you be in the divine breath. Sri Swamiji said that Mahalo in Sanskrit would mean Lord Shiva, who is the life force. There is a definite connection between the ancient Indian civilization and the Hawaiian culture. Sri Swamiji along with the devotees offered prayers at the Mapele heiau and asked all the devotees to chant Omkara for some time. Swamiji blessed the Hawaiian native family. The native Hawaiians are battling against the corporate agencies who are trying to patent the various varieties of Taro (a tuber), that was being grown by the native Hawaiians for several centuries. The natives offered fruits to all the devotees who were present there.

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BEFRIEND NATURE! YOU ARE NEVER ALONE!

Message of His Holiness during the morning walk in the lawns at Laguna Hills- 9th August 2008

Why at all should you feel gloomy that you are alone? Was there anyone with you when you were born? Does anyone accompany you when you leave this mortal body? Your family, friends, husband, wife, children everyone travels with you only a certain distance temporarily. You must befriend something that is always there, at all times, in one or other form. That is nothing but Mother Nature. We must learn to align ourselves with the nature. Nature speaks to you. Listen to those sounds and relish them. Their company is there for you in all births. There is no question of loneliness at all if you befriend nature. Learn to communicate with the nature. Nature is your eternal friend. While Sri Swamiji was talking to Kaliji about Nature, two Iranian people came to Swamiji, paid their respects and introduced themselves as Naturopathy doctors. It was a surprise to see them suddenly appear and interact at a time when Swamiji was talking about nature. They felt extremely happy to meet Swamiji and had the privilege of a photo with Swamiji.

Swami Narahari Teertha Aradhana at Laguna Hills, CA - 8th August, 2008

Devotees assembled at the residence of Smt. Kusum and Sri. Ashok Patel to offer prayers to Swami Narahari Teertha, Pujya Sri Swamiji’s father. In the holy presence of Pujya Sri Swamiji, Sri Srinivas Shastry, priest from Datta temple, Baton Rouge performed Abhishekam to Lord Shiva followed by Puja to Sri Narahari Teertha’s photograph. Devotees chanted the 108 names of Lord Shiva and Narahari Teertha followed by chorus singing of Pujya Sri Swamiji’s composition “Sundara Sundara Shiva Shiva” in Raga Abhogi. G. Sumitra, great granddaughter of Sri Narahari Teertha rendered Sangeeta Seva and sang ‘Sabhapate” a kruti in Raga Abhogi. Swamini Kali Ray was also present for the Puja.

His Holiness Sri Swamiji shared with the devotees a few of His reminiscences with Swami Narahari Teertha, father of Pujya Swamiji. In His childhood, Swami Narahari Teertha, then Narasimha Shastry was very closely associated with Ramana Maharshi and Swami Abhedananda, whose association influenced him a lot. The friendship was so strong that He would eat in the same plate as Swami Abhedananda. Narasimha Shastry was a great priest and was the only priest for nearly 20 to 30 villages in and around Bommeparti (present day Jaya Lakshmipuram). He was very famous for his valuable advice. People always sought his blessings for marriage, house warming ceremony, special Pujas and festivities and other auspicious functions. People were very fond of him. He was always having an attitude of giving to the people. His life was always like that of a child. He never liked to keep himself attached to or bound to anything or anyone. He truly believed and practiced Vairagya (Detachment). There was nobody like him in the entire village. People of that part of the country are generally very rugged and harsh, and non-yielding; however they would listen to his advice with rapt attention and follow His advice sincerely. He would keep them under total control. He would teach them the philosophy of Hindu religion and was successful in helping them to understand the greatness of Hinduism and prevent conversion to other religions.

He was always Swamiji’s friend and Guru. He taught Swamiji may things in life. He predicted many things in Swamiji’s life. He also told that something unusual would happen during the sacred Upanayan (thread ceremony) to Swamiji. Many years later, during the thread ceremony, Swamiji had the divine Darshan of Lord Ganapati in the huge fire of Homa and the divine Mudgala Purana chants were being continuously heard within (elaborately described in the biography of Sri Swamiji). That was the time when Swamiji was a priest boy in the Chamundi temple. Swamiji was staying with Seshagiri Shastry, the priest of Chamundi temple. The king of Mysore, Jaya Chamaraja Wodiyar would come to the temple often. He would not leave until he took the sacred ablutions from Swamiji only. He would wait till boy Swamiji came and give the sacred ablutions. Many years later, the king wrote a book on Lord Dattatreya also. He had seen Dattatreya in Swamiji.

One day, while Swamiji and his father were discussing Vedanta, Swamiji’s father told that he wanted to take Sanyasa Deeksha (oath of renunciation), not from Swamiji, but from a blind Sanyasi, who was always involved in penance, and would not touch anyone. So Swamiji searched for such a Sanyasi and finally Narasimha Shastry became Swami Narahari Teertha. He actually led a life of renunciation and detachment all through. He is one with Shiva now. I offer my respects to Him. During His last days, He wished to stay in a separate room with His daughter Varalakshmi. He always wanted to see Swamiji with a Crown on a Silver throne. He would say, “You are Vishnu, not an ordinary person. You don’t know.”

One day, He called Swamiji and said, “Cancel all your programs and stay back for 40 days.” He would sit in meditation for hours. While in meditation, chanting ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ He left the mortal body. There was no ailment, no doctors and no medicines. Till the end, He would do his routines on His own. He cherished the Rava Laddoo (a kind of sweet) very much. I miss him very much, but I know He is in my heart. He was a very nice person. He liked very much his grandson, Srinivas Shastry, the priest who came to perform the Abhishekam and Puja today. Kusum Patel’s family is having some connection with Narahari Teertha. That is why this event today here. Please pray for your desires and offer your respects.

Lankas sisters from New Jersey cooked the Prasadam for the Naivedyam. Young boys and girls, grand children in Kusum’s family played a few Bhajans on the sitar, flute and Tabla.

HIS HOLINESS SRI GANAPATI SACHCHIDANANADA SWAMIJI’S
INSTRUCTION TO ALL DEVOTEES REGARDING PHOTO SESSIONS WITH PUJYA SRI SWAMIJI

Following Narahari Teertha Aradhana Celebration, His Holiness announced that:

It is a sin to demand for a photo with Guru, except in the following special situations.

a. While performing Pada Puja.
b. While offering a garland, Vastram, Purna Kumbham or Arati.
c. When asked by Swamiji himself.
d. A group containing members with more than three Gotras (family names) with permission.

The photo should convey the message that the devotees are taking a picture with a divine incarnation. Demanding a photo with Swamiji, like posing with a family friend, invites great demerit to the devotee because the divinity aspect of Guru is being undermined. Furthermore, when people look at the picture of Pujya Swamiji, they draw energy from Him. He being a divine incarnate, can readily replenish His energies drawn by others. When people look at a picture of Swamiji with you, they will not only draw energy from Swamiji but also deplete your energies. Since we are lesser mortals, we cannot easily replenish this loss of positive energy. An informed video session with permission is however permitted.

Devotees are requested to take note of these instructions seriously and put them into practice.

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Sri Swamiji visits Venkateshwara Temple at Jackson MS, 4th and 5th Aug 2008

His Holiness Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji reached Jackson, MS, on the evening of 4th Aug 2008 at 3 pm. Pujya Sri Swamiji was given a warm reception by DYC president, Dr. V. V. Prakasa Rao and family. Later, in the evening Sri Swamiji visited the Venkateshwara temple complex undergoing remodeling. Mr. Baldev Patel, Chairman Hindu Temple Society of Mississippi offered the garland to Sri Swamiji while the priests chanted Veda Mantras and welcomed His Holiness with Purnakumbha. Sri Swamiji offered Arati to Lord Venkateswara and performed Sri Chakra Puja at the temple.

Later, Sri Swamiji blessed the devotees with a message and said that everything happens as per the divine plan of the almighty. The delay in the temple renovation activity is also a part of this divine play and not due to any human error. Sri Swamiji announced that He would perform Ganapati Homa, Navagraha Homa and special Kalasha Puja to ward off the obstacles in the progress of the remodeling activities. Sri Swamiji also instructed one and all to participate in the temple renovation project. Dr. Prakasa Rao spoke about Guru Tatva and narrated a few experiences of devotees with His Holiness.

On the 5th of Aug at 12 noon, Pujya Sri Swamiji offered Poornahuti to the Homa and surveyed the interior and exterior of the temples in all the minutest details, spoke to the artisans, sculptors and the temple trustees and blessed them with a speedy progress. The evening program began with Sri Chakra Puja in the Antaralaya of the existing shrine. Kalasha Puja by Sri Swamiji followed this with sanctified ablutions to be used by the priests during the Kumbhabhishekam celebrations that would take place 4 months later. The Kalasha was handed over by Sri Swamiji to the Chief Priest of the temple.

This was followed by a scintillating Bhajan session by Sri Swamiji. Interspersed with the beautiful Bhajans His Holiness gave a divine message to the devotees. His Holiness first sang the Bhajan “Nayakam Vinayakam” in Raga Varali.

Sri Swamiji mentioned that in Shaiva Siddhanta, Lord Ganapati has a form, whereas according to the Vedanta, Ganapati is a formless entity and is the phenomenon of Sound (OMKARA). This Bhajan is the essence of Mudgala Purana, a beautiful scripture on the phenomenon of Ganapati. This Bhajan talks about self realization or Atma Gnana. Questions like, Who am I? What is eternal? You? Your family? Husband? House? Sofa? Swimming pool? Money? Name and Fame? Who is your family? What is your permanent address? What is the purpose of life? Why are you always disappointed and sorrowful? What is permanent happiness? Who gives you happiness? Many such questions arise in the minds of every human. Only questions arise. No answers. The only answer to all such questions is Atma Gnana (knowledge of self).

From a mosquito to a man, everything and everybody is busy. All the 80 and odd million species are busy. We claim we have no time to attend temple or meet Swamiji. We give lame excuses and try to escape Satsang. “My program is fixed. I cannot go. I have party etc.” How many days will you live? 90 years? 95 years? 100 years? 120 years? If so, you will become an exhibit in a museum, and a sought after celebrity for TV channels and Newspapers enquiring the secrets of your health and longevity. What is the justification you have done for your spiritual progress in this birth? How effectively have you used your birth? Practice divine names. Come to the temple. Have a noble friendship. Practice Satvik living. Teach yourself this discipline. Teach your children this discipline. We think we are giving freedom. We don’t advise our spouse. We don’t advise our children. You think this is American Society of freedom. We should not advice. If so, then why don’t you follow all the rules and regulations related to food, health and many other matters? If you do not teach yourself and your children the spiritual disciplines, you are going to be a great loser. One day you will realize its necessity, but by then you would have grown old and not much physical strength to pursue spiritual austerities. Your body would have become crippled and withered out. Nobody will come to help you then. Ultimately you will realize that you are a big loser. That’s why; while you are healthy and strong, spend time in spiritual activities. This merit will accrue in your divine account. All the time chant the divine names of the Lord. Instead of yelling and groaning in pain, call out the names of God. In fact you must chant His name with every breath.

Sri Swamiji sang “Gurujina Naam ni vo” a song in Gujarati. Swamiji says this Bhajan is like Upanishad. Each line displays Bhakti and Gnana. Hariharananda composed this Bhajan. Likewise, many saints have composed in Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Hindi, Telugu Tamil etc all of them in simple common man’s language and essentially comprising the essence of the Upanishads. We unfortunately don’t sing or listen to them. Swamiji has also composed many Bhajans, which reveal the secrets of great scriptures and tenets of spiritual wisdom in very simple words. It is very easy for us to say that we do not understand the Bhagavadgita and the Upanishads. Actually we are lazy even to attempt. That is why great saints have always chosen Nama Sankeertana method for spiritual elevation. Each of these songs is therefore a pathway to self-realization (Atma Gnana). Sri Swamiji sang “Muruga Muruga”, a Tamil Bhajan for all the artisans. This was followed by “Naman Karo” in Hindi, “Ehi Srinivasa”, “Govinda Jai Jai”, “Palaya Govinda”, and “Krishnam Vishnum”.

At the end of the program all the artisans and sponsors working in the temple were honored with Dattavastram and Prasadam. Sri Swamiji blessed them and announced that this temple would become very renowned in years to come.

6th Global Gita Conference 2008 - New York

Message of Pujya Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji on 3rd August 2008

Many people have a misconception that Bhagavadgita is a subject meant for the highly intellectuals. It is not for a man with common intelligence. Further, it has so many chapters, so many translations and interpretations, so many apparently contrasting discussions. At some places, Krishna says I am everything, at other places, He says that He is only a witness. All these are misinterpretations, and arise out of a confused lazy mind not willing to make effort for understanding the spiritual truth. One must try and make effort to read and understand at least one Shloka of Bhagavadgita. It is a very practical scripture suited for everyone. If you love it, you will understand it. There is no confusion in the various elaborations that exist for the Shlokas.

Bhagavadgita is as essential to everyone as is the Prana or breath. The breath reiterates the penance of the Jeevatma (SO-HAM meaning ‘THAT OMNISCIENT PARAMATMAN IS ME). This essentially is the spiritual practice of every seeker irrespective of the religion. If you want to understand SELF (Atma Gnana), then you must read Bhagavadgita. It is therefore a natural phenomenon belonging to one and all. Many people wish that they be born in BHARATA just because this great spiritual wisdom roots itself in this holy land. BHA stands for BHAVA, RA for RAGA and TA for TAPAS or TANMAYATVA i.e. merging in the emotion and attachment with the Paramatma, another important message of the Bhagavadgita. That this body is like the Kurukshetra field, a constant tug of war going on within, the Jnanedriyas (sensory organs) and Karmedriyas are being misguided away from the Jeevatman by the powerful and illusive Maya, reiterates the ideology that this great text is essential for every Sadhaka who wishes to make this body an embodiment of the divine (DEHA DEVALAYA – the body temple). Krishna is the Paramatman. Arjuna is the Jeevatama. Then how come this science can belong only to the intellectuals? It is a method of salvation for one and all. It is like a mirror reflecting your true self. It is like the SADGURU itself. That is why, for your ease and convenience Swamiji has given you Gita Parichayam an introductory collection of few verses from the Gita, to help you to begin your journey into the Bhagavadgita, to improve your interest in this sacred self illuminating text (Swaprakasha). This is like a chocolate or an appetizer before a big meal. You must forego all reservations on Bhagavadgita and start reading at least one verse everyday to make your journey across the ocean of life comfortable. Swamiji blesses the organizers, delegates and all volunteers who participated in this program.

6th Global Gita Conference 2008 - New York

Message of Pujya Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji on 2nd August 2008

The word BHAGAVAD GITA in Sanskrit has five letters BHA, GA, VA, DGI, and TA. These five syllables represent five elements. BHA represents Earth element, GA represents Water element, VA represents Fire element, DGI represents Air element and TA represents Ether element. Similarly there are five important entities starting with the Sanskrit letter GA – GANGA, GITA, GOMATA (Cow), GURU and GOVINDA- worshiping each of these five gives different merits to man. Therefore, Adi Shankara said ‘Bhagavad-Gita kinchidadhita (reading at least a few verses from the Bhagavad Gita) meaning thereby that each Shloka from the Bhagavad Gita gives immense merit. It can change the life of a person. That is why GITA is called the essence of all Upanishads. A few people have a misconception that just by chanting the verses of GITA one does not get any merit, you need to understand its meaning. This belief is false. On the contrary, each chapter from the Bhagavad Gita gives a different merit.

In Padma Purana, Lord Shiva narrates the chapter wise merit of Bhagavad Gita to Parvati in the form of a story. Let us try to understand, the immense merit of the sixth chapter ‘Atma Samyama Yoga’ in the words of Lord Shiva. There was a town named ‘Pratishthanapuram’ on the banks of the river Godavari. King Janashruti, a pious, virtuous and a spiritual king ruled the land. He regularly performed the fire worship or Homa. The fire worships were so gigantic that the Kalpavruksha (wish granting tree) in the heaven had become black because of the flames. He would give away so much in charity that even the Kalpavruksha (wish granting tree) felt shy. King Janashruti would treat his countrymen like his own children and provided in time everything they needed.

The celestials were impressed with the King and wanted to give him boons. They assumed the form of Swans and started coming to Pratishthanapuram. While they were flying, a few Swans were flying fast. The Swan, Bhadraswa was leading them. The swans in the rear shouted at them and said, “Bhadraswa! Why are you speeding so much? Don’t you see, we are reaching Pratishthanapuram. If you are not careful the flames of Janashruti’s penance will burn you down. Go slow”. Bhadraswa, the leading swan, immediately laughed and said, “Don’t worry my friend. Follow me. Nothing will happen to us. This king’s merit is nothing before Raikwa Yogi’s penance”. King Janashruti who was walking on the terrace overheard the swans, and immediately felt an urge to see Raikwa Yogi.” He summoned his charioteer and instructed him to search for Raikwa Yogi and plead him to come to the palace on behalf of the king. The king’s charioteer searched for Raikwa Yogi in Gaya, Kashi, Mathura, Ayodhya and finally he reached the Manikyeshwara temple in Kashmir, where he found someone sitting under the tree similar to the description given by the king. In a state of ecstasy, he rushed to that person and prostrated to him. Humbly with folded hands the charioteer said, “Oh Mahatma! Raikwa Yogi! What is your full name? Where do you stay? Are you capable of traveling every where? If so why are you staying here? What do you plan to do now?” Raikwa yogi was pleased at the politeness and replied, “I don’t need anything. The devotees on their own come here, do service and go” The charioteer understood the mind of Raikwa Yogi and returned back to his kingdom and narrated the experience to his king. King Janashruti wanted to meet Raikwa Yogi immediately. He reached Kashmir with a thousand cows, two donkeys fully loaded with plenty of ornaments, money, clothes, gems etc. As soon as the king saw Raikwa Yogi, he prostrated and offered everything he had brought with him. Raikwa Yogi immediately shouted at the king and said, “You stupid fellow, do you think, I will be pleased with all these things. Take them away and get lost from here.” The king was terrified. However, he gathered some courage and requested Raikwa Yogi with folded hands, “What is the secret of you spiritual energy. How did you attain this state of equanimity? Please tell.” Raikwa Yogi replied, “Oh king! I chant the sixth chapter of Bhagavad Gita at all times and so I have attained this spiritual bliss and equanimity of mind. Even the celestials cannot tolerate the vibrations of my penance.” The intelligent king went back to his kingdom and started practicing Dhyana Yoga and finally attained salvation. Raikwa Yogi continued his Atma Samyama Yoga and attained spiritual bliss. The celestials returned back to their abodes.

Shiva says to Parvati, “Those who practice this chapter of Gita will attain the form of Vishnu.” So, please chant this chapter and get the grace of Lord Sri Hari. Jaya Guru Datta.

10th Anniversary of Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge

His Holiness Sri Swamiji arrived at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, Louisiana on 29th July 2008 at 10 am. Devotees collectively performed Puja to Lord Hanuman in the presence of Sri Swamiji and chanted Hanuman Chalisa.In the evening, His Holiness Sri Swamiji performed Sri Chakra Puja in the Annapurna Mandiram, opposite the Datta Temple and Trinity Hall.

30th July 2008, Morning, Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge.

After the Sri Chakra Puja, Smt. Hira Duvvuri and Sri. Suri Duvvuri offered garland to Sri Swamiji on behalf of all the devotees, commemorating the 11th Anniversary of the Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity. His Holiness blessed the devotees with the following message.

We were talking yesterday about the inner meaning of Puja. We saw the butter decoration for Lord Datta yesterday. Many people do not understand the inner meaning of such decoration, and offering ablutions with Panchamruta (cow’s milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar). Each of these has a sacred meaning and is performed while chanting the Veda mantras, which are code letters of conversation between the God and the Devotee. There are four Vedic chants – Rug, Yajur, Saama and Atharvana. Each conveys different meaning. Water ablutions gives knowledge because of the code words recited. Milk ablution reveals the truth. It heals skin disorders. Curd ablution enables our forefathers to attain Heaven. Such is the meaning of the code letters that are chanted during the Abhishekam. It helps to alleviate stomach ailments and kidney disease. Ghee ablution is useful for control of Kaama (desires), Karma (fruits of any action) and Krodha (anger). Ghee ablution to Lord bestows intellectual power and knowledge. Honey helps to understand the relationship of body, mind and soul. It promotes good physical and friendly relationship, also strengthens the mind. Sugar ablution with proper Vedic chants builds the relationship between Sadguru and devotee. These five types of ablution give good energy. Abhishekam is like a big celebration in many Hindu temples.

30th July 2008, Evening, Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge.

Sri Swamiji recollected and narrated some interesting anecdotes from His first visit to the US in 1976. When Sri Swamiji first visited the US with a team of 11 people including Rajaram Naidu, Arokya Swamy, Radhakrishna (Manasa Datta) and others, Swami Atmananda and His 40 followers were to receive Sri Swamiji at the airport, but due to some confusion they did not reach the airport. Mr. John (Ramana) had come to meet Sri Swamiji.

All of them helplessly waited with all their luggage and instruments on the streets not knowing what to do. Mr. Rajaram, their sponsor had lost his money and there was nothing to eat, drink or bath. Just then, Ramana came in to Swamiji and said, I shall take you to one of my friends Mr. Michael who will provide residence for you for the night. We will find a better place tomorrow. On the request of Ramana, Mr. Michael offered a small room to Swamiji and his Parivara, gave a few bananas and some water to drink. Everybody was hungry. There was no current, no water to bath and no money to eat. Arokya Swamy the Harmonist started crying, “What is this arrangement Swamiji. You are taken care of like a prince in Mysore. I am feeling very bad for the arrangements made for you here.” Swamiji laughed and said, “This is also good karma only. Don’t worry. Wait and watch.” It was already late night. What to do? Suddenly, Swamiji and all others started singing Bhajans along with the instruments. Mr. Michael came rushing inside and initially rebuked every one for the disturbance they were causing but he was very appreciative of Swamiji’s enchanting voice. He owned a Studio and expressed his desire to record Swamiji’s voice and Bhajans, the next day. It was already 3 am. The recording was supposed to take place at 5 am. So, everyone got ready and rushed to the studio. In a hurry they forgot to take the Tabla and Harmonium. They returned back, brought the instruments and gave the recording. As soon as Swamiji completed his recording of “Divya Nama Sankirtana”, He received a grand ten thousand USD. The next day morning, Swami Atmananda also came along with His disciples and apologized for the confusion that they had gone to some other airport. A Rolls Royce car was brought to take Swamiji. Swamiji’s mellifluous voice had by then already shown the miracle. Everyone was happy.

During the Bhajans in the evening, Swamiji started with “Om Om Om Gam Gam Gam” song, a composition on Lord Ganapati. He mentioned that this wonderful Bhajan was full of seed letters. Later, Sri Swamiji continued with a composition on mother goddess – “Devi Vande Sri Lalite.” Swamiji said that Sri Chakra worship is a worship of Universal energy. There is a great philosophical meaning embedded in this eight line Bhajan. Many people seek Mantra initiation from Swamiji. These Bhajans are itself initiations. No separate initiation is required. These are like Sri Vidya Upadesha. Each Bhajan has a strong energy. Sri Swamiji then sang the Hindi Bhajan “Datta tuhi vidhi tu hi vidhaan” and said that this is a Bhajan implying self surrender of the devotee considering Datta as the highest principle. The popular Hanuman Bhajan, “Hey Hanuman”, followed this.

The function came to an end with the devotees collectively singing the Kakada Arati of all the seven days, while Arati (ghee lights) was being performed to Lord Datta. Sri Swamiji instructed the devotees and members to make some special arrangement for the parking place and not to cause any inconvenience to the neighbors.

Discourse of Pujya Sri Swamiji at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA on the evening of 29th July 2008

His Holiness Sri Swamiji performed Sri Chakra Puja in the Annapurna Mandiram, opposite the Datta Temple and Trinity Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Later, Sri Swamiji asked the devotees to answer a few spiritual questions.

What is the meaning of Jaya Guru Datta? The devotees answered as Jaya means victory. Guru is the embodiment of God. While God is the formless Almighty, Guru is God in human form. Datta means gift. One who is compassionate and giving. Guru is that compassionate one who blesses us with knowledge and therefore victory to such Guru. Sri Swamiji said that this answer was 80% correct but more detail can be obtained from Bhakti Mala.

What is holy water? What does it mean? Why don’t you give coffee or juice instead of Teertham? What is Charanamrutam? Why camphor light? What is final offering? Devotees attempted to answer these questions, but Sri Swamiji was not satisfied with the answers and advised them to see www.dattapeetham.com and read Bhakti Mala.

Sri Swamiji, then said, “I have explained the answers to these questions several times and the inner meaning of these actions. You did not grasp it because you are attending Puja like a machine, robot, just like physical exercise. You are not participating in it spiritually. Puja is not a toys play”. We have fickle minds just like the behavior of a monkey. We always remember bad things only. We forget the good things. In fact it should be the reverse. Wise men do not brood over past sorrows and frustrations. Datta devotees must practice this art of dwelling in happiness forgetting all the miseries and remembering good things only. In fact, disappointments are appointments. Remembering the pleasant moments of the past helps one to tide over the present sorrow. If your mind contemplates on loss at all times, it naturally becomes gloomy.

Wise men are always found laughing and in good spirits. If you sit alone, you start thinking about your miseries only. You must realize that disappointment is in fact an appointment for next planning. It teaches us detachment. Detachment does not mean to run away from responsibilities. It only means to remain aloof. Saints are like flowers; they give fragrance and positive energy. Our mind and face should be like lotus. The body is like a temple. Soul is like God. You are attached to the sense organs, not to the soul and so you feel the pain. Ramana Maharshi, who was operated on His leg did not suffer pain even when anesthesia was not given. We must practice that state of mind. We must practice detachment. Unhappiness is like a powerful poison. It generally devours the happy moments. It converts the happy nectarian moments also into poison. Choose what you want- poison or nectar. Sacrifice your sorrow, depression and disappointment. Wash it out. Tune yourself to happiness. Then you will attain Moksha..

Jaya Guru Datta

Discourse of Pujya Sri Swamiji at Datta Retreat Center, West Sunbury, PA on 26th July 2008

After visiting the trinity rocks at DRC, Pujya Swamiji blessed the devotees with the rare chance of sharing their experiences in public. There was absolute silence and it was heart warming to see the devotees reliving their experiences. After they spoke their hearts out, Sri Swamiji blessed everyone with His divine discourse. Following are the excerpts.

Bhagatavam is a sacred text of the Hindus and is very important in one’s life. The stories of Lord Vishnu, how He protected the good and destroyed the bad are described in detail in this book.

As the result of a curse, when King Parikshita was left with only seven days to live, Suka Brahma came and initiated him. Before learning the Vishnu Purana, Parikshita was eager to know the experiences of the devotees of Lord Vishnu. So, Suka Muni narrated the stories of great devotees of Lord Vishnu, including those of Narada, Anjaneya, Prahalada and Ambarisha. After learning the experiences of all these devotees, Suka Muni began the narration of the sacred text of Bhagavata.

It is the same here. After learning the experiences of all these devotees, Suka Muni began the narration of the sacred text of Bhagavata.
It is the same here today. If you want to know Guru Charitra then you must first experience the Sadguru. All these experiences are the first few steps. These are important. They are necessary. But they are not everything. All these miracles, these experiences are only the first few steps. What is above all this is Gnana. These miracles are only to bring one close to Sadguru. They establish the friendship between the Sadguru and the devotee. They purify one’s atma. These experiences qualify you for receiving Gnana; the bigger miracle. Again, experiences with Swamiji are necessary. But they are not permanent. When we get Gnana, all these miracles disappear. If miracles are all what you want, then you will get no Gnana. We can compare experiences to appetizers. Like how we consume some juice or some sweet before we begin a sumptuous meal, similarly, we must gain such experiences before proceeding to the big meal that is, Gnana.

Apart from the friendship with Sadguru, association with the devotees here is also what we need. We must mingle with all; not simply coming, eating and going away. Lik,e as if it is their duty to serve you food. Nurture your friendship with them. Don’t quarrel. Don’t try to break the rules by saying that you are close to Swamiji. Like how Parikshita wanted to learn about the devotees of Sri Vishnu, you must also share with your co-devotees.

All these experiences are very nice. Some have not come here to the microphone saying that they need hours to talks about their experience. Some want to tell more and they write books. But are you saying that you can describe the miracle of Swamiji’s in your life in 10 minutes? It is a lifelong experience. Nothing can describe it. In fact, you need not talk about these. With the Sadguru, everything is heart to heart. You must believe that he knows everything, that each and everything need not be discussed with him. Just learn silently. Be happy and thankful that you have such a beautiful friend, such a powerful savior!

Jaya Guru Datta

Discourse of Pujya Sri Swamiji at Datta Retreat Center, West Sunbury, PA on 27th July 2008

Many people are confused about terms like Body, Mind, Soul, Jeevatma, Paramatama. Clarifications to such terms can be obtained in Vedanta classes. The Sun is self-illuminant, where as the planets shine by virtue of the Sun. The Paramatman is self illuminant and with His energy everything shines. Sun is not Paramatman. Sun is an example of the His energy. In this physical body shines the self illuminant energy called Jeevatma, a reflection of the Paramatman. The physical body is like a rented house which has to be vacated when the contract period is over. It is like a hotel room and you have to check out when the time comes. A medical student in the initial classes of anatomy feels a strange experience while dissecting the human body, gradually it becomes casual and indifferent for him and later even death or serious illness of any patient does not perturb him. If a human being can achieve that state of indifference to life and death in a matter of few years, how much indifferent would the almighty Parabrahman, the creator be.

Whenever there is an accident, the doctor first enquires for any head injury. Because the mind of any human is like a well programmed computer chip. Damage to this chip will result in irreversible loss to the individual. This combination of the mind and the soul principle is called the Jeevatma. Depending on the merits, demerits and desires, the soul attains another body. This struggle goes on till one attains knowledge of the self. In this process, ones heart is His real guru. You need a Sadguru to guide you in this process but ultimately your heart is you real guru. All devotees must treat this DRC as your body part and support its activities.

Jaya Guru Dat

Guru Purnima message of Parama Pujya Sri Swamiji on 18th July 2008, New Jersey, USA

Today we are celebrating Guru Purnima. We are remembering Guru Parampara and doing the Parampara Stuti. It is Guru Vamsha Vruksham. (Lineage) Many people do not know who is Sadguru, Parama Guru and the Guru Parampara. It is like our father, grandfather, great grand father and his father and fore fathers. But there is only one first father. He is Brahma. That is why we say Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara. Guru is a creator like Brahma, protects us as Vishnu and destroys confusion in us as Maheshwara These three actions are going on continuously in Guru. Brahma's creation is unique. We cannot explain Brahma's ideas. He is playing like a small boy. We are all small toys for Him. We all are tiny particles in His creation like small insects.

Some are protective, some are destructive and some are poisonous. What ever is His Sankalpa, it is good. He is very happy about His creation. No complaints. No questions. Every being in His creation is very busy. Even an ant is busy. Mosquito also is busy in biting. Birds also are very busy. Many people say we are very busy to follow Sadguru. We say Swamiji is in our hearts. No physical worship is necessary. We say work is worship and Swamiji also likes it. We don’t read Bhagavad Gita. We say it is confusion. If you study deeply, you will understand. If you study your Sadguru in depth, you will understand.

You feel Sri Chakra Puja is like a toy game. It is necessary to understand Guru Gita to understand idol worship. We have to control our Manas. In order to control that, we need idol worship. Vigraha gives Nigraha. We are giving discipline and controlling the sense organs. When we sit with Swamiji, we have very powerful concentration. What ever is the reason, we have come to Swamiji. Some attraction is there. We don’t know what it is. Swamiji's leela cannot be explained. How long miracles will work on us? There is some attraction beyond miracles.

Many people ask what is the benefit of visiting Swamiji? We say we don’t know. But if they ask repeatedly, our response will change. Slowly we speak out. But even then Swamiji's leela cannot be explained. You can only experience, you cannot experiment. Bhakti should not be experimented. Surrender completely. Do complete Atmarpana. Swamiji is like a Walmart. You will get what ever you want. You get Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Bhajans, fun.... anything. Don’t complain that Swamiji is like this... like that.... I don’t like Swamiji doing this etc..... You cannot say that because He is Walmart. If you don’t like, don’t go. You can taste what ever you want. But you must wait. Some people are in hurry to see Swamiji. Swamiji tests your patience also. By doing so, He will remove all your sins. Our Karma is getting washed away in long queues that we wait for Sadguru Darshana. You will forget all your pains in a moment.

In Hyderabad, devotees stand for more than 6 hours in queue for Swamiji's darshan on Yugadi day... they feel very happy for doing so...In America people sit only in Sofas. They drink coffee also with Straw. But why are you sitting on floor here? It is out of love and affection towards Swamiji that you have. You concentrate on one work at a time finish that and then take up the other one. Then you will succeed in everything. Your confusion is because you take up everything at one time. You all are doing everything half. Datta Stavam half, Puja half, food half, sleep half. Everything is 50 per cent only. That is why you don’t have good health. We say Ashthottaram is big. You finish in 8 or 16 names. Do anything with fulfillment and satisfaction. Today, this Nakshatra is powerful on Purnima day. This comes only once in twelve years. Swamiji wanted to concentrate only on Guru Purnima and cancelled the three months trip.

You are tiny human beings. Your quality is making mistakes. Sadguru quality is forgiveness. He will excuse all of you. You are showing your quality and He is showing His quality. Try and drive away Rakshasa Bhavas in you and put all your efforts to gather Devata Bhavas. Do well and speak good at least to your families or at least to yourself. Our family is a beautiful family. We got a Nandagokulam. Sadguru is living in your body. Don’t hurt yourself. Don’t get depressed. That is why Swamiji says don’t smoke. He is residing in you. Don’t spoil that divine inner energy. I bless you all that all your Sankalpas be fulfilled. May our relationship grow and be stable. May it be a good relation? Again, Swamiji is like a Walmart. Don't decide for yourself that He has this, He does not have this.... Swamiji has everything. You pick up what you want.

Jaya Guru Datta

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Guru Purnima message of Parama Pujya Sri Swamiji on 17th July 2008, New Jersey, USA

At 6.30 p.m on 17 July, Pujya Sri Swamiji walked with a smiling face as always into the hall with hundreds of devotees lined up to get a glimpse of him. On behalf of the Yoga Sangeeta and Datta Yoga Centre V.V. Prakasa Rao, President, Datta Yoga Centre, USA welcomed Sri Swamiji and thanked him for blessing the US devotees with his divine presence on the occasion.

Later, Sri Swamiji performed Sri Chakra Puja and delivered His message on the auspicious occasion.

“This year’s Guru Purnima is a special day and the US devotees are very lucky because you are in association with Swamiji. Association with Sadguru is very important. Brahma's creation is Supreme. We are tiny parts of his creation. Mother Earth itself is tiny. Imagine our place on earth. We are like sand particles. Man thinks he is big. In Brahma's creation earth also is not recognized. This creation is like a puppet show. Datta is the Sutradhari. We all are moving in His energy. All we have to do is do some good act. Good act is just to “Follow the Master”, and having trust in Guru and God. That is the battery for us. This trust charges us in our disappointment. If you are disappointed, sit for five minutes and meditate.

Our mind is like a monkey. Indriyas cannot be controlled. But lord has given Pragna, (Buddhi) that has to be used. We should have some purpose for this life. For knowing the purpose of life, Guru's association is essential. That is why we celebrate Guru Purnima. Like we have father's day, mother's day, Valentine’s Day, we also have Guru's day. We did not come into this earth accidentally. It is all computerized and we are here today because of our past Karmas. Each action of Guru has Vedanta in it. There are Navarasas in His face. Every action and movement is valuable. The sounds He makes’ also are valuable. It is very difficult for us to understand as we see Guru like a normal human being. It is wrong. His body is divine and lucky as the divine force and energy has chosen His body to live in.

Sadguru is Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva says Guru Gita. The almighty's energy has taken a human form in the form of Sadguru. If that force takes a form of Agni, we all will be burnt in that force. Since we are humans, that force has taken the human form to take us to ultimate. Sadguru is a mirror. Sparsha, Darshana, Sambhashana, Shaktipatha, Vakpaatha - all these are happiness on Guru Purnima day.

Looking into Swamiji's eyes is Drusthipaatha. He heals in different ways. Swamiji's voice is going into our body and vibrates. If you are not able to catch Swamiji's vibrations, try again and again. If a particular phone number is not reachable, we try again and again hoping to have good signal. Like wise, keep trying till you have good signal for communication. This is called Tapas. You should not get disappointed. It is your duty to try again and again. If you sit with good devotion and meditate, Swamiji can receive your vibrations where ever you are in this world. Sometimes we feel disappointed and say ok, Swamiji knows my situation; I will not attend this Puja, and not go for Guru Purnima and such. But you will be the first one to come and sit in the first row to witness the Puja. I do not know if you are falling in Swamiji's maya or Swamiji is falling in your maya. The more we try to go far, the more we come nearer. This is Guru’s Energy. This relationship with Guru is different from other family relations like parents, brothers, sister, husband, wife.... and this relation is very special.

Money does not matter to Swamiji. It is your love and affection that is tying you all to Swamiji. Relation with Sadguru is very rare. You must continue this relation and association. Do not lose it. Meditate with pure Mind. It has to be crystal clear. You all have surrendered yourselves at the feet of Sadguru. You should not go back. Sadguru is the owner for you now. If you try to go back, it will be "Datta Aparadha". Sadguru is like Agni. Once you surrender yourself, you cannot search for yourself again. If you try to do so, Rakshasatva will come. You should become Devata from Manava and not Rakshasa.

It is like feeding a kid with food and asking him to vomit the food. It is not possible. If you try to take yourself back, it is dangerous as different energy flows in you from the moment of your surrender. You cannot maintain that energy. Eesaavasa Upanishad talks about this. Once again on this Guru Purnima day, I bless you all. You all are my family members. You have not signed any papers that you are my family members but I have signed. So I will not leave you. Control your Chanchala. (Fickle mindedness) and burn your Chanchala. Experience Swamiji and not experiment Swamiji.

Jaya Guru Datta!

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