Akhand Jyoti Magazine (Nov-Dec -2019)

VOLUME: 17 | ISSUE:6 Nov. - Dec. 2019 Augment Worthiness The divine blessings are considered invaluable, but to acquire them requires worthiness of that level. Clouds rain, but the hills and rocks cannot get its benefit. Only the deep pits get the advantage of filling themselves with rainwater. If the pot is kept upside down in the rains, then even if there is heavy downpour, it will remain empty. It has to be receptive to get filled. If the student/disciple is worthy, then akin to Eklavya becoming a great archer, he can become a master in his field. It is true that there is a need for a competent Guru (teacher/master/guide), but it is also required that the student/disciple be responsible and full of devotion and faith. Had Shivaji not dared to bring the milk of tigress and offer it to Samarth Guru Ramdas, and proved his worthiness, he wouldn’t have been able to get his blessings, and hence could not become Chhatrapati (emperor). Had Chandragupta not surrendered wholeheartedly to his Guru Chanakya, he wouldn’t have been able to become such a mighty king. Had Narendra not requested Mother Kali to bestow on him Gyan (knowledge), Bhakti (devotion), and Vairagya (detachment from worldly desires), he wouldn’t have been able to become a great saint, Swami Vivekananda. Only worthy persons get the blessings of spiritual masters or God. Therefore, one should aim at refining one’s personality and augmenting worthiness. - Pujya Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma, Acharya Convince yourself every day that you are worthy of a good life. Let go of stress; breathe. Stay positive; all is well. - Germany Kent 3 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

CONTENTS 1. Amrit Chintan Augment Worthiness.............................................................................................................. 3 2. From Chief Editor’s Desk Let Us Imbibe Refined Dharma in Our Lives........................................................................ 5 3. Our Responsibilities in this Era of Information Explosion ................................................... 7 4. The Vedanta School of Indian Philosophy............................................................................. 10 5. Science and Spirituality Evolution of Mind: Conscious to Superconscious Levels..................................................... 14 6. Craftsmen are Bearers of Creativity, Beauty and Growth .................................................... 19 7. Become a Part of the Solution, Not the Problem! ................................................................. 22 8. Malnutrition - A Cause for Concern ...................................................................................... 25 9. Yug Gita – 20 Lord is Teaching the Essence of Living a Sacrificial Life ..................................................... 27 10. Peace Pilgrim’s Wisdom – 20 The Way of Peace - II ............................................................................................................ 32 11. Pollution-free Air - A Necessity for Human Survival............................................................ 36 12. Odyssey of the Enlightened - 68 Auspicious Impressions of Sacred Energy - 3 ....................................................................... 38 13. Youth Column How to Become an Expert Speaker? ..................................................................................... 42 14. Amrit Vani Plans and Preparation to Usher in a Bright and Blissful Era................................................. 44 15. Effective Measures for Plastic Waste Disposal.................................................................. 49 16. Shantikunj News.................................................. (Inner Cover Pages & Back Cover Page) The real measure of our wealth is how much we’d be worth if we lost all our money. - Benjamin Jowett AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 4

From Chief Editor’s Desk Let Us Imbibe Refined Dharma in Our Lives? Param Pujya Gurudev once said – ‘In the medieval Then the question arises – what is true religion period, an effort was made to appease God through (Dharma)? The scripture says, ‘Dh³ryate worldly means, and in the process, God was made janairiti dharma¡,’ – that is, the one that is worth physical. This led to the understanding that God imbibing in human life is called Dharma. From behaves like a human being and that God has the this point of view, dharma is an art of living same desires and ambitions that humans possess. following which a person can achieve his goals A human being demands food, and God requires in a righteous way. It is not superstition; it is not Prasad. If you want to get some work done blind faith. But it is a constant effort to refine the through him, you will have to do his buttering. self, nurture a harmonious family, and awaken a As he is like a human being, you should offer him spirit of uplifting the society. gifts. For example, offer laddoos to Hanumanji, and your work would be done. Unless you give This easy-looking path, however, is not that him something, how can he be happy? This way, simple. Had it been easy, Nachiketa would not God was treated like a human being.’ (Discourse have to surrender to the God of death - Yama, delivered by him sometime in the 1960s) Dhruv would not have to do arduous penance, Meera would not have to drink the cup of poison, Even today, especially in India, various kinds of and Harishchandra would not have to pass elaborate rituals are carried out, and materialistic through painful tests. The path of Dharma, Gyana offerings are given in the temples to appease (knowledge), righteous wisdom, renunciation, God. There are hundreds of religious sects with ascetic penance, spirituality, etc. had always been their arcane rules and hidebound dogmas of challenging and would remain so forever. faith. Religion has become narrow-minded and prejudicial, that is obstructing the growth of Divine attributes like compassion, sympathetic human spirit. Considering these aspects, many attitude, equality, purity, cordiality, dutifulness, modern thinkers are contending that religion is an inclination of selfless service, love and the most despicable of social evils, responsible affection, etc. are the real elements of Dharma. for all the wars and conflicts around the world. Manusmriti has described the signs of Dharma In fact, terrorism haunting the world today is a like this: direct consequence of religious intolerance and zealotry. Dh•ti¡ kÌam³ damo’steya® ïaucamindriyanigraha¡ | Waking up this morning I smile. Twenty four brand new hours await me. I vow to live fully in each moment and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion. – Thich Nhat Hanh 5 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Dhirvidya satyamakrodho, daïaka® dharma Parhita sarasa dharama nahin bh³i, para pºÃh³ lakÌanam || sama nahin agham³i || (Meaning: There is no religion better than helping (Meaning: Patience, forgiveness, control of mind, others, and there is no sin worse than hurting non-stealing, inner and outer purity, control over others.) senses, wisdom, self-knowledge, truth, and equanimity – these are the ten signs of Dharma.) That is why Param Pujya Gurudev established In this regard, the advice of Yama to Nachiketa Gayatri Pariwar with the aim of alleviating the (as per Kathopanishad) is worth mentioning– sufferings of others and uplifting their spirits to follow the righteous path. In the present KÌurasya dh³r³ niïit³ duraty³, durgam circumstances, when selfishness has overpowered pathastat kavayo vadanti | the psyche of the masses, it would be true Dharma to awaken a sense of empathy in human beings (Meaning: The path of Dharma is challenging, and selfless service to humanity. Let us resolve to like walking on the cutting edge of a knife - so imbibe the real attributes of Dharma and inspire say the wise.) others to follow this path. That is why we find fewer people walking on this path and more people talking about it. People dream of accruing supernatural powers without nurturing these virtues. Dharma is not pageantry; its definition is pretty (Pranav Pandya) simple. In the words of Goswami Tulasidas (as expressed in the form of a couplet) in Ramcharitmanas, it is: The one great advantage of Bhakti is that it is the easiest and most natural way to reach the great divine end in view; its significant disadvantage is that in its lower forms it often degenerates into hideous fanaticism. The fanatical crew in Hinduism, Mohammedanism, or Christianity, has always been almost exclusively recruited from these worshippers [sic] on the lower planes of Bhakti. That singleness of attachment (Nishthâ) to a loved object, without which no genuine love can grow, is very often also the cause of the denunciation of everything else. All the weak and undeveloped minds in every religion or country have only one way of loving their own ideal, i.e., by hating every other ideal. Herein is the explanation of why the same man who is so lovingly attached to his own ideal of God, so devoted to his own ideal of religion, becomes a howling fanatic as soon as he sees or hears anything of any other ideal. - Swami Vivekananda I always remember that everything is here to teach me how to love. – Spring Washam AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 6

Our Responsibilities in this Era of Information Explosion We are presently going through the phase of web Along with Industrial revolution, the printing of media, which covers nearly all the traditional books also picked pace. Even during those times, and erstwhile communication media merged into people complained about excessive information. a single platform. Combined with smartphone Owing to a survey done in early 20th century, technology, it has led to an information revolution information available through print media was that has been profoundly impacting human life. doubling every thirty years until 1930. With the While this has brought in many conveniences to advent of electronic media, information was daily lives and helped make things easy, it has available at a much higher pace, and by 1960- also increased the circulation of negative and fake 70, it doubled every ten years. Then came the messages that have been misleading and hurting computer and the internet. the common man. It is becoming practically impossible to determine the authenticity and Looking at the possibilities of the information utilize the information that is exploding right at revolution, renowned author and visionary Alvin our fingertips. Toffler had written about information overload in his sensational book – ‘Future Shock,’ which is The information that was a medium for enhancing what we are witnessing today as an information knowledge and was the basis for cultural progress explosion that has swept the minds of the common is becoming the cause for stress, depression, man. We have reached a point where information conflict, disturbance, and misunderstanding. In is doubling every ten hours, implying that what this age of information explosion, it is proving took thirty years in 1930 is now happening in ten to be extremely challenging for the common man hours. to maintain a positive outlook and choose useful information from what is available to him. Facebook is the most popular among the social media in which three lakh status updates, two Historically, we can see that the dissemination and a half lakh photos, and five lakh comments of information has been improving with are posted per minute. Microblogging site development in technology. When the printing Twitter sees one lakh tweets per minute. Five press was invented, publishing gathered hundred hours of video content gets uploaded on momentum which led to the Renaissance YouTube per minute, and forty-five lakh viewers Movement or intellectual revolution in the West. are watching them. Two hundred million emails Information is the oil of the 21st century, and analytics is the combustion engine. - Peter Sondergaard 7 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

are exchanged per minute. Fifty thousand photos papers and research journals that are getting are posted on Instagram per minute. If we look at published, we will see that the information is WhatsApp, more than forty million messages are truly exploding to the skies. But the fact remains shared per minute. One can imagine what kind that the lion’s share belongs to social media. of effect this flood of information can create in a person’s life! In summary, we are living in the age of information explosion, where we are being In addition to social media, there is no shortage presented with a plethora of data. The majority of traditional media like newspapers, magazines, of the information is negative, pessimistic, television, etc. The information getting promotes conflict, misleading, and sensational, disseminated through these media also cannot which instead of solving problems creates more be ignored. Our country has nine hundred and confusion, causes disappointment and promotes twenty TV channels, out of which two hundred are frenzy and passion. This flood of information owned by the government. If we include regional is steering us away from enjoying the music of channels, then the number shoots up to two life and is leading to thought pollution because thousand. If we look at radio transmissions, there of which a person is unable to be in a healthy is FM and internet radio in addition to Akashvani balanced state for long. In the midst of all this, and community radio. To add to all this, thousands it is very likely that even a healthy individual is of magazines are getting published. If we begin subject to stress and depression, finally leading to consider the number of films that are getting to loss of mental stability. The number of people released, then the statistics go up the roof. To top suffering worldwide from internet and social it up, if we count the number of books, research media is always on the rise. Digital detox centers When I work with experimental gadgets, like new variations on virtual reality, in a lab environment, I am always reminded of how small changes in the details of a digital design can have profound unforeseen effects on the experiences of the humans who are playing with it. The slightest change in something as seemingly trivial as the use of a button can sometimes completely alter behavior patterns. For instance, Stanford University researcher Jeremy Bailenson has demonstrated that changing the height of one’s avatar in immersive virtual reality transforms self-esteem and social self-perception. Technologies are extensions of ourselves, and, like the avatars in Jeremy’s lab, our identities can be shifted by the quirks of gadgets. It is impossible to work with information technology without also engaging in social engineering. - Jaron Lanier Every second of every day, our senses bring in way too much data than we can possibly process in our brains. – Peter Diamandis AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 8

and even mental health care asylums are being you can do it by creating meaningful information. opened to treat such cases. India is also not Before blindly forwarding information, ascertain exempt from this risk. its authenticity, and only when found right, send it further. Read and understand the message before Under this increasing pressure of information, it forwarding in limited circles. Don’t blindly has become an enormous challenge to identify forward all the messages to everyone possible, and choose useful information. The human brain making it a headache for others. has a limited capacity to process information. Increased knowledge is sure to cause more stress Do not waste significant time reading trivial to the brain, and it is but natural that other social information on social media. Instead, you can abilities are getting affected because of this and spend quality time on meaningful information leading to chaos and imbalance in life. Man’s and use it to bolster creative activities. Instead of ability to focus and concentrate has been very adding content that fosters conflict and confusion adversely affected, and this has struck a blow into a society that is already caught in the web to the roots of mental stability and peace. Amid of its problems, let us all assume the role of these conditions, it is becoming increasingly responsible transmitters of information. We can impossible to have mental makeup for embarking certainly expect this from all the Pragya Parijans. on any serious creative activities. The human being seems to be gripped in the clutches of the The Web provides a media and is living the life of a phantom. convenient and compelling supplement to personal memory, With continuous technological advancements, but when we start using the the informational flow is bound to increase Web as a substitute for personal steadily. It’s a challenge to the media consumer memory, by bypassing the inner as to how he can utilize this scenario and derive processes of consolidation, we benefit. Also, there are certain responsibilities risk emptying our minds of their that each one of us has because, as a user of social riches. media and mobile, we are not only a consumer of information but also play a role of its broadcaster. – Nicholas Carr If you are active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, blogging, and other platforms, you (From: The Shallows: What the have the role of a citizen reporter. So, it matters Internet is Doing to Our Brains) a lot what you post on these platforms, what you like, what you share and what you comment on. If you want to subdue the meaningless messages, To all users of technology who are willing to take a chance, make a choice, and try a new way of doing things so that we can nurture and enjoy a happy, healthy planet.- Katherine Murray 9 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

The Vedanta School of Indian Philosophy Among the six schools of Indian philosophy Preeminent sage Adi Shankaracharya (788-820 Vedanta (Ved³nta) is honored as absolute. It is AD) is revered as the first scholar, in the post- like the sun in the sky of pure knowledge. As the Mahabharata times, who revived the teachings of name suggests, Vedanta literally means End of the Vedanta. He wrote the commentaries (Bhashya) Vedas, i.e., the ultimate essence of the immense of “Bramhasutras” and the ten prime Upanishads; knowledge encoded in the Vedas. Around 80% his “Bhagwat Geeta Bhashya”, “Mandyuka of the mantras (hymns) of the Vedas pertain to Karika Bhashya”, “Vivekchudamani”, etc, also instructive knowledge guiding the masses about are counted among magnum opus of Vedanta. The what should be done and what should not be study of these treatises is pursued by the scholars/ done, etc, for a happy and healthy coexistence seekers of Vedanta Philosophy. of humans, other beings, and Nature. Out of the remaining 20%, around 16% of the mantras Bhaskaracharya wrote a Laghu Bhashya on deal with the methods of devotional and spiritual Bramhasutras, emphasizing absolute knowledge practices (up³san³ and s³dhan³). Only 4% of and benevolent karmas as source of Moksha the Vedic mantras constitute the Upanishads – (ultimate salvation). Sarvagyatma Muni source of ultimate mystic knowledge. Maharshi has scripted explanation of Bramhasutras Badarayan (Maharshi Vyas, who also scripted the as a verse, which is popular as “Sankshep- epic “Mahabharata”) compiled the Bramhasutras Sharirak”. Swami Advetanand, who was a (that were derived from the Upanishads). These disciple of Swami Ramanand Tirth has given a are regarded as the origin of Vedanta Philosophy. detailed explanation of Adi Shankaracharya’s “Bhashyas” in the scripture titled “Brahmavidya Some scholars refer to the Vedanta Darshana Bharan”. Vachaspati Mishra’s “Bhamati” and as “Uttar Mimansa” and a related philosophical “Brahmatatva Samiksha” also excellently discuss explanation by Maharshi Jaimini as “Purva Shankaracharya’s treatises. Mimansa”. However, as Vedanta represents ultimate knowledge that counters and also In 13th Century AD, Chitsukhacharya wrote complements the limitations of other schools “Tattva Deepika” (also known popularly as “Chit of philosophy, including Purva Mimansa, our Sukhi”), a study of which is considered as a must discussion is focused here only on Vedanta. for Scholars of Vedanta. Sri Vidyaranya Swami of Sringeri Peetham has written several foundational Authentic Texts on Vedanta texts on Vedanta, such as “Jeevanmukti Vivek”, “Vivaran Prameya Sangraha”, “Brihadaranyak No self is of itself alone. It has a long chain of intellectual ancestors. The “I” is chained to ancestry by many factors… This is not mere allegory, but an eternal memory. - Erwin Schrödinger AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 10

Vartik Saar”, etc. His “Panchadashi” (in five - Brah® Satyam Jagata Mithy³, Jºvo Brah®aiva volumes) is most extensively read by the seekers N³para| (Meaning: Brah®2 alone is the absolute of Vedanta knowledge. truth, everything else in the entire creation and manifestation of Nature is an illusion, the jºva3 “Vedanta Saar” by Sadanand Muni, “Vichar is not different from the Brah®.) The concept Sagar” by Sadhu Nishchaldasji, and Pandit of Advaita also declares - Sarva Khalu Ida® Pitambarji, “Vichar Chandrodaya” by Pandit Brah®| (Meaning: every entity in existence or in Pitambarji and “Panchdashi” are regarded as transcendence is Brah®.) introductory texts (Prakriy³ Granths) on Vedanta which must be studied thoroughly under suitable The search for Absolute Truth guidance before attempting to read higher-level texts of Vedanta. “Vedanta Saar”, “Atmabhodh”, Vedanta regards Brah® as the only and ultimate “Tatvabhodh” give simple and short introductory truth, as Brah® alone is eternal. Everything thoughts; study of these is recommended as else is considered here as M³y³ (Illusion). This essential for the beginners. school of Indian Philosophy defines three levels of existence - (i) ϳïvata: that which exists Approaches to Vedanta everywhere beyond any constraints of time and remains invariant eternally; Brah® alone is such Vedanta philosophy regards the statements an ever-existent entity. (ii) Âbh³sa: that which (ïrutis) of the Upanishads as the only and ultimate is non-existent but appears to be existent; for pram³ña1. Different interpretations of specific example, when one has an illusion of a snake in a portions of Upanishads by different Rishis and rope lying on the floor, that ‘existence’ of snake is Acharyas are broadly classified by scholars as the only an illusion (³bh³sa). (iii) Vyavah³rikº: that diverse branches of Vedanta Philosophy. These which is non-existent but assumed to be existent are, namely, Adi Shankaracharya’s Advaita only to facilitate worldly transactions and the Vedanta; Ramanujacharya’s Vishishtadvaita ‘play’ of the present life; for example - self Vedanta; Nimbakacharya’s Dvaita-Advaita identity of a person, or that of any being, names Vedanta; Madhvacharya’s Dvaita Vedanta; and forms of things that appear in this physical Vallabhacharya’s Shudhadvat Vedanta; Acharya world in specific domains of space and present Chaitanya’s Achintya Bhed-Abhed Vedanta. time, etc. Swami Vivekanand’s teachings of Practical Vedanta may also be listed as another approach Vedanta regards the appearance and experience to grasping the core teachings of Vedanta. (perception) of the world, worldly transactions, social interaction, etc. as mithy³ like a world in a Principal Thought of Vedanta dream. As the world and experiences of a dream disappear in an awakened state, and the illusion Thorough analysis of the teachings of different of a snake in a rope disappears when there branches of Vedanta shows that at the core of all of these is the key principle of “Advaita Vedanta” The pure mind is itself Brahman; it, therefore, follows that Brahman is not other than the mind of the sage. - Ramana Maharshi 11 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

is light and one is able to see the rope clearly, the same event or thing differently according to similarly realization of the eternal truth of Brah® his mental state. These examples indicate that the (Brahmgy³na) removes all ignorance, illusions, ‘reality’ of everything, every experience, in this and attachment with mithy³ experiences and world is only temporary and relative; it, therefore, thralldoms of the world. cannot be regarded as “true”. In other words, all our experiences of ‘reality’ are offshoots of the According to Vedanta we remain deluded by influence of avidy³ that keeps us confused and m³y³ (illusion) and regard the world and every deluded by m³y³. experience, everything here as real, because of our avidy³ (lack of true knowledge), our Existence of the Soul, God, and Cosmic ignorance about the Brah®. However, this is like Creation: covering of the Sun by clouds; because of this covering or haze, we do not get sunlight, not even Vedanta describes the manifestation of Nature a sight of the Sun, but that doesn’t mean that the as a consequence of the evolutionary impulse of Sun is not there. Similarly, the shield of ignorance Brah® which gave rise to two levels of m³y³. and illusions (in our mind) keeps the knowledge With the manifestation of Nature, there also and realization of our true self (the soul, Brah®) appeared the five basic elements (Panca Tattva4) hidden from us and we continue to regard our and three intrinsic traits (Triguña5) of Nature. mental impressions, perceptions, and sensory The fundamental expression of the reflection of experiences as true. We associate our self- Brah® in first level of m³y³ - the Sataguñº M³y³, identity with our present body and name given (i.e., m³y³ imbibed only with satoguña) is God- to it, and we also identify other people by their Vishnu and Shiva. In Vedanta, God is realized physical (worldly) existence and names or titles as Sakriya Brah® - self-created, self-aware, and given to them. Existence of various things and (creative) expression of Brah®. The fundamental their properties are recognized and experienced expression of the reflection of Brah® in second by us as ‘real’ according to our sensory and level of m³y³ - the Tamoguñº M³y³, is the jºva and mental perceptions; different people may find, the inanimate cosmic creation. The foundational experience or react to a common event or thing texts of Vedanta present detailed description and differently; the same person too may experience lucid explanations of how the mutual combinations The Vedanta recognizes no sin; it only recognizes error. And the greatest error, says the Vedanta is to say that you are weak, that you are a sinner, a miserable creature, and that you have no power and you cannot do this and that. - Swami Vivekananda Actions are the louder expression of thought. The quality of thought is ordered by the nature of our inner belief and faith. - Swami Chinmayananda AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 12

and compounding of different proportions of of Vedanta revolve around self-realization or the Panca Tattvas and the Triguñas generated unification of the jºv³tm³ with its true-self - the different substances of Nature - including energy Brah®. and matter in the cosmic creation, physical and functional components of different beings (e.g., Notes: the sense organs, mind, intellect, and other faculties of the human species). 1. Pram³ña: Proof of authenticity; epistemological evidence. Vedanta identifies the soul (³tm³) as Brah® and therefore describes it as Sachchid³nanda 2. Brah®: Omnipresent, Eternal, (Sat -eternal truth, self-existent, omnipresent, and ever-invariant; Chit - having absolute Consciousness-Force. knowledge, self-aware, and self-illumined; Ânanda - unalloyed, beatifying, absolute 3. Jºva: An individual-self or a being - the soul blissfulness). Therefore the properties of the expressed in life-form. soul include the following: (i) Soul is different from the causal, subtle, physical bodies; (ii) 4. Panca (Pancha) Tattvas: The five basic Soul is beyond the Panch-koshas (the five elements of manifestation of Nature, which sheaths – physical shell, energy shell, mind also form the natural medium for its diverse shell, knowledge shell, and the self-conscious expressions. Namely, p•athvº (solid matter bliss shell) of a jºva. on or inside the earth), jala (water, liquids, and fluids), v³y¿ (air, gaseous states), agni Jºv³tm³ (jºva3) is the soul in life-form, which is (source of fire and energy) and ³k³ïa (the deluded about its true identity; it identifies and subliminal etheric expansion). experiences itself in terms of the three bodies - the Physical body; the Subtle body (the mind, the 5. Triguñas: The intrinsic tendencies of sat, raja, intellect, the five vital energies, the five faculties and tama. Satoguña implies the embodiment of perception, and five sense organs of action); of truth, the source of acquisition of and the Astral body (the unconscious mind and knowledge, pure intelligence, and faculties ‘ego’ - the sense of self-identity). of awareness, cognition, perception, mental trenchancy and peace, and emotional serenity. Like the other schools of Indian philosophy, Rajoguña is the source of all energies and Vedanta also aims at the ultimate salvation of activities in the macro- and microcosm, the individual selves from all sorrows, sufferings, basis of animate manifestation of Nature and thralldoms. This school of philosophy leads and expressions of consciousness (e.g. in to ultimate salvation (mokÌa) most effectively, the generation of thoughts and other mental as, the unique concepts and core teachings actions). Tamoguna: source of ignorance, inertia, and inaction; it is predominant in the inanimate Nature. The Soul appears to be finite because of ignorance. When ignorance is destroyed, the Self, which does not admit any multiplicity, truly reveals itself: like the Sun when the clouds pass away. - Adi Shankaracharya 13 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Science and Spirituality Evolution of Mind: Conscious to Superconscious Levels The spectrum of the functions and expressions to be investigated on these subtler levels of of the Omnipresent Consciousness-Force (CF) is consciousness. In fact, so far, the modern approach limitless like its eternity and infinite expanse in of the ‘science of mind’ (including psychology the manifested as well the transcendent realms of and other neurosciences) is mainly focussed on existence. It is not possible to grasp or analyze behavioural and intellectual studies. It has not it; even describing it in words or elucidating it been able to provide comprehensive definition of otherwise also appears beyond our reach. the mindencompassing its deeper powers. Manifested expressions of CF - at sensory External powers of the conscious mind are levels and in other functions and experiences reflected in the naturally awakened intellect; of the physical body havebeen investigated these have played wonders in the progress of the and understood to a great extent in modern world on many fronts. Eloquence and sagacity of laboratories. However, as discussed in some writers, orators, trenchancy of scientific minds, earlier articles of this series, even at physiological efficiency of business managers, creativity of and neurochemical levels, its manifestation in the artistic talents, etc, appear amazing many times. marvellous functioning and enormous potentials One can’t even imagine, what could be the of the brain has still not been deciphered nature of superior intelligence? If only about completely by modern scientists. Similar is 7% of the ‘naturally activated’ mental potentials the case with unrevealing of its yet unknown could conquer the material wealth of Nature and functions in the mental body (the conscious mind) develop such a materialistically advanced world, in terms of memory, intellect (mental perceptions what would be the powers of the hidden intellect, and logical reasoning), thoughts, and emotions. evolved emotions, and the extrasensory and super-conscious faculties of the mind? More challenging are the subconscious, unconscious, and extrasensory domains of the Preeminent spiritual masters and sages of the 20th mind, which, in the modern times, apart from Century like Sri Aurobindo and Pandit Shriram psychoanalysis of some precognitive powers of Sharma Acharya had analyzed multiple facets dreams, etc., have been mainlya subject matter and evolved levels of mind from ordinary to of research in parapsychology, metaphysics, superconscious realms. As thoughts generated and the so-called occultstudies. Much remains in mind get translated into actions, they are most One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious. The latter procedure, however, is disagreeable and therefore not popular. - Carl Jung AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 14

prominent in describing the nature of one’s mind. ponder over a chosen topic of knowledge. It is in Sri Aurobindo had scrupulously analyzed and such a mind that firm resolutions, new thoughts, scientifically explained the characteristics of and knowledge are generated. Positivity, peace, different levels of mind in terms of the nature of blissfulness and love and compassion last for thoughts. relatively long in the “Higher Mind”. The minds of great thinkers, philosophers, and trend-setting According to him,the level of one’s mind is scientists are best examples of this category. reflected in the clarity and depth and positivity However, the “Higher Mind” is still far from of one’s thoughts. There are hardly any active wisdom and knowledge of absolute truth. It thoughts in a dull (dormant) and dirty (i.e., lying can’t visualizeor discover higher domains of at the lowest level of evolution) mind. Slightly consciousness and spirituality. evolved or the so-called ‘Ordinary’ mind is trapped in the mire of unclear, arbitrary and As the “Higher Mind” becomes calmer mostly negative thoughts. The agility of such a (meditative), its thinking becomes deeper with a mind is so prominent that it can’t be in any state broader outlook towards life; it begins to evolve of experience for long - be thatsorrow, fear, or towards a more enlightened and developed state. even some entertainment or joy. Gradually As the name suggests, it is bright like a clear sunny evolved levels of ‘Ordinary Mind’ are like day; there is no place for the haze of confusion in successive steps in the journey of thoughts from this mind. The vision of an “Illumined Mind”can negativity to positivity, from agility to stability, also unfold and analyze the real cause behind from unclear and haphazard to clear and focused. various activities of Nature. Its imaginative power becomes more realistic. Extraordinary Sri Aurobindo has defined the successively creative talent naturally awakens in such a more developed levels of the human mind, as mind. Deliberations of such a mind also become -“Higher Mind” (ūrdhva m³nas), “Illumined enchanting like a poem; the literary creations of Mind” (udbh³sit m³nas), “Intuitive Mind” such a mind can deeply inspire the feelings of (antarbodhim³nas), “Over Mind” (adhim³nas), readers. In his literary creation “Future Poetry”, and “Super Mind” (atim³nas). he has cited and explained the ‘power’ of several verses of many renowned poets including John “Higher Mind” is superior to the “Ordinary Milton, William Wordsworth, Percy Shelley, Mind”, the flow of thoughts here is soothing and Rabindranath Tagore, Mahadevi Verma, etc. With serene like the silvery glow of the pure water further evolution, such a mind becomes more of the Ganges in the Himalayas on a full-moon stable and strong. Experience and dissemination night. Everything is clear and focused here. Such of the blissfulness of knowledge is the essence of a mind is able to clearly grasp, understand, and this more evolved state of an “Illumined Mind”. Consciousness is only possible through change; change is only possible through movement. - Aldous Huxley 15 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Beyond “Illumined Mind” is the “Intuitive Vedic Wisdom on Deeper Roots of Evolution Mind”. It is a state of the awakening of spiritual of Mind: acumen. Great seer-sages are endowed with this The Indian rishis (Vedic sages) were masters power. Such an evolved mind does not have of the human mind (including intellect). Their to study or search for knowledge elsewhere. It spiritually evolved acumen had a reach in the grasps the light of knowledge from within. The hidden roots of Nature and the cosmic expansion rishis (seer-sages of Vedic Age) had realized and sublime depths of the human mind. They absolute knowledge in this state of mind and had elucidated that the mind in its purest form expressed it in words as the Upanishads. is a medium for the expression and experience However, even this state of mind does not realize of CF in the inner-self; it is constituted of God in its infinite completeness; it explains the satoguña of the five basic elements. However, ultimate truth in words but does not have its for the purpose of its functions through the ultimate realization. (That is why the teaching brain and sensory faculties in the physical and study on this knowledge often appear only body, this satoguñi medium also gets mixed as an intellectual exercise – beyond the reach of with rajoguña. even the illumined state of mind.) If one is not aware and careful to discipline it, the Above the “Intuitive Mind” is the supreme level rajoguña pervaded in Nature accelerates extrovert of evolution of mind, which is called the “Over agility of the mind; as a result, it gets strayed away Mind” or the “Super-Conscious” mind. This is the from its core of inner bliss and light of conscience. state of realization of - the eternal unity of God Further, if one does not care to continually refine and the soul, the personal and the impersonal self, and illuminate his mind (in the light of wisdom), the Omnipresence of the Self-existing Supreme the influence of tamoguña prevailing in the Consciousness Force (Brah®). material manifestation of the world pulls it in the smog of ignorance.Consequently, itgets trapped How and Why the Evolution of Mind? in the mire of ego-driven, selfish tendencies and A natural quest arises here, as to why is this attractions, attachments of sensory pleasures, false difference in the levels of minds of people? If pride, andvicious web of negative tendencies, etc. it is originated from the eternal source of CF, As a result, it suffers infirmities, vices, sorrows, why the mind declines towards devolution? etc. Thus, a wonderful source of evolution also How to achieve its evolution from ‘ordinary’ becomes the ‘cause’ of decline and devolution. This to the higher levels and eventually to the appears to be the case with the so-called ‘ordinary’ superconscious levels? Absolute answers to minds of most people in the present times. these queries lie in what the wisdom of our ancient sages had discovered. The Vedic rishis hadused their body and mind as ‘natural devices’ and conducted spiritual Sooner or later on this journey, every traveler faces the same question: Are you a human intending to be a god, or a god pretending to be human? - Eric Micha’el Leventhal AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 16

experiments (of tapa, sw³dhy³ya, yog, of spiritual evolution but also for the welfare of s³dhana) towards sublime transmutation of the masses. consciousness. With gradual progress in these devout endeavours (spiritual experiments), Practical Guidance and Support for Ordinary they had also attained supernormal powers Minds: (siddhis), supramental talents, and awakening Maharshi Patanjali had propounded the of the extrasensory nuclei (chakras) of principles and methods of Ashtang Yog for vital spiritual energy (pr³ña). They had reduction of tamoguña, refinement of rajoguña, also accomplished the ultimate goal of a and inculcation and augmentation of satoguñain superconscious mind and had eventually humankind. In today’s world, only a superficial realized the absolute unity of the soul with the part of his teachings, popularly known as “Yoga”, Brah® (Omnipresent Eternal CF). is confined to physical fitness and general health. Most of the yoga teachers themselves are not They had also propounded a comprehensive aware of the fact that “Yog” is originally a discipline of knowledge and practices in science of holistic wellbeing and evolution of the science of yoga and spirituality to guide consciousness. humankind towards the righteous path of evolution (of consciousness). A saintly seer sage Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, a saintly of the modern times, Pandit Shriram Sharma seer-sage of the modern era, had revived the Acharya had revived this discipline in late 20th Vedic Philosophy and Science of Yog, Yagya, century, not only for the seekers of high realms and Spirituality in scientific light adopting Our first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, was a great supporter of cultural values and roots. Once his friend asked him, “There is always quarrel in the name of religion in our society, and hence, he should refute the importance of religion.” Rajendra babu replied with an anecdote, “Once a man was digging the road, and when he was asked about the reason, he replied sadly that there are too many accidents on this road every day. Therefore he wants to destroy this road forever” Rajendra babu asked his friend what he thinks about this man, who wants to destroy the road due to accidents. His friend replied, ‘That’s not the right solution. The right way would be to teach people discipline of walking or driving on the road, and traffic rules should be applied strictly as well.’ Rajendra Babu said this is what his answer on religion is. Religion is created for human beings to walk on a righteous path. The rules of following the religion are reflected in our behavior and discipline. Any mistake or disobeying the rules can cause an accident. Therefore the fault is not in our religion, but in the way, we follow it. Thinking is learning all over again how to see, directing one’s consciousness, making of every image a privileged place. - Albert Camus 17 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

a practical approach suitable for today’s Notes: world. He had attained supreme evolution 1. Triguñas: Already explained in the of consciousness through devout spiritual endeavours of Gayatri S³dhan³, and also article titled ‘The Vedanta school inspiredand guided millionsof disciples to of Indian Philosophy’ in this issue. follow the path of s³dhan³ for their mental (intellectual), emotional, and spiritual 2. Tapa: Ascetic disciplines of refinement and righteous development.He pioneered the revival of scientific spirituality self-restraint and penance. for raising the level of pr³ña (vital spiritual energy) and disseminated this knowledge 3. Sw³dhy³ya: Self-study and self- through practical training. training in the light of sagacious thoughts/teachings and inspiring deeds of elevated souls/great personalities. His spiritual acumen realized that nurturing the 4. AÌt³nga Yog: Yoga, as propounded by root of thoughts and emotions is essential for Maharshi Patanjali, consists of AÌÚ³nga (8 consistent growth and illumined ascent in the components or steps), viz., - Yama (non- eternal flow of life; he, therefore, mobilized violence, truthfulness, honesty, chastity, “Thought Revolution” along with his missions and non-possessiveness); Niyama (internal of “Emotional Refinement”, and “Personal, and external cleanliness, contention, tapa, Familial and Social Development”. Millions sw³dhy³ya, and iïwara prañidh³na – of people have benefited from his enlightening complete surrender to God/spiritual focus of discourses and great writings (consisting of yoga); Âsana (specific types of steady body- over 3200 books on almost all topics concerning postures); Pr³ñ³y³ma (energizing through human life). The personality refinement and deep and meditative breathing); Praty³hara spiritual s³dhan³ courses conducted at the (detaching the mind from sensory impulses fraternity of Gayatri Pariwar at Shantikunj, and focusing it introvert); Dh³rañ³ (mental Haridwar (www.awgp.org), and its other concentration), Dhy³na (mental stillness; centers provide necessary practical guidance deep meditation), Sam³dhi (transcendental and training to the aspirants. oneness with God/supreme spiritual light). In Acharya Sharma’s views, a human being is not 5. S³dhana: Devout spiritual an evolved animal, but a strayed god. His mission of evolution of consciousness aims at - the endeavor aimed at self-analysis, awakening of the divinity indwelling in the inner self of humankind and erection of an ambiance of inner refinement, and awakening. heavenly bliss and light on the earth. 6. Gayatri Pariwar: A large family like socio- spiritual organization founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. As natural selection works solely by and for the good of each being, all corporeal and mental endowments will tend to progress toward perfection. - Charles Darwin AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 18

Craftsmen are the Bearers of Creativity, Beauty, and Growth Craftsmen are bearers of creativity, beauty, and The first phase of human social and economic growth. It is not possible to imagine human development occurred during the Vedic era. civilization, culture, and growth without Discovering fire and harnessing it made a acknowledging the contributions made by fundamental difference to human life. This was technically competent, traditional craftsmen. indeed the first revolutionary step towards the They have played significant roles as ironsmiths, civilization of the human race, though today, goldsmiths, architects, sculptors, handicraftsmen, we cannot really relate to the importance of etc. in beautifying mother earth from time this discovery. The fire occurred naturally in immemorial to the present age with their excellent the jungles, but like a demon used to devour skills. everything that it touched. But by learning the controlled use of fire, it became possible to Bereft of all desires, like spiritual seekers, convert this adverse enemy into a favorable traditional artisans have put in enormous efforts friend, and this was a revolutionary discovery. with their tools to simplify and beautify human life. All the beautiful man-made objects that we The creation of useful objects and appliances find in the world around us have been created by for all human beings was the second step in the tireless efforts and hard work of traditionally development. Traditional artisans created skilled artisans. devices for the great kings as well as tools for At one time I thought the most important thing was talent. I now believe that - the young man or the young woman must possess or teach himself, train himself, in infinite patience, which is to try and to try and to try until it comes right. He must train himself in ruthless intolerance. That is, to throw away anything that is false no matter how much he might love that page or that paragraph. The most important thing is insight, that is ... curiosity to wonder, to mull, and to muse why it is that man does what he does. And if you have that, then I don’t think the talent makes much difference, whether you’ve got that or not. - William Faulkner He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist. - Francis of Assisi 19 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

the humble farmers. They created pots of mud, says – “Vishwam sarvkarm kriyamanasya sah copper, bronze, gold, and silver for yagya, vishwakarma samyak” – The One whose task pavilions for conducting yagya, weaponry, and is to create this entire world is Vishwakarma. chariots for kings; ploughs, coulters, and spades From time immemorial, the descendants of Lord for farmers and workers; and other several types Vishwakarma, the creator of the universe, have of equipment for tasks like beating, grinding, been busy in creating human settlements across cutting, etc. What is called industry today was the globe. There is no doubt that traditional once called the art of craftsmanship. Creation of artisans alone are responsible for adding new objects ranging from flying machines, palaces dimensions to human civilization. and forts, to fans, thermometer, barometer, and compass, to gunpowder, canons, and guns, and The craftsmanship that had prevailed in India all the items of luxury were possible only due to was of an extremely advanced level. In fact, this craftsmanship. Indian artisans created a very high quality of artifacts. The contributions made by them Stories of untiring hard work put in by traditional using their evolved technical skills became the artisans under extremely adverse circumstances foundational basis of rule and the state. In all the have become those classic chapters in history development that has happened in the world, the that can never be erased. Enormous passage of vital role played by workers and artisans cannot time also has not been able to destroy their work. be denied. When Britishers became the rulers, Vedic literature has described in abundance the they conspired and brought in industrialization creations and constructs of these craftsmen. A and thereby robbed the traditional craftsmen look at the fascinating and advanced creations of their inherited profession and rendered them by them in the long past era mesmerizes us even weak and helpless. India was a slave nation, and today. It makes us wonder how such marvelous the fortune of every Indian was determined by objects were created by them when there were no British government. Realizing the injustice and machines. It makes us bow down to their skills. oppression inflicted upon them, artisans actively participated in the freedom movements. Times Lord Vishwakarma has been regarded as the changed, freedom was won, but sadly, not much foremost proponent of technical knowledge and changed for the traditional artisans. They were craftsmanship. Vedas and Puranas have sung denied sufficient participation in the development paeans of praise for his creations. He also is schemes made after independence. They were left one of the seers of Vedas. “yo vishwa jagatam isolated to fend for themselves. kotsah sah vishwakarma” – one who creates this non-living and living world, and all its birds and Even after several decades, there is not much animals is Vishwakarma. Maharshi Dayanand change in their state. They continue to suffer. They have not earned freedom because economically Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind. – Johannes Brahms AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 20

they are not self-dependent and are still in the grip have occupied their area of work entirely. The of dire poverty. Democracy means a government supply of timber wood from forests has been of the people, by the people and for the people. nearly stopped, and raw material for creating Every race, caste, and creed must get an equal wooden artifacts has become very expensive. opportunity to progress in democracy. But As a result, carpenters now are under severe unfortunately, narrow-minded and lowly politics financial stress, and it has become difficult for have tied their feet and left them to compete in them to make both ends meet. On one side, a the race of development. Traditional artisans big lobby advocates for large subsidy and tax have fallen way behind politically, economically reliefs for large industries, while on the other and socially. hand, traditional artisans are in a state of crisis as they face severe shortage of supply Our seers coined the phrase ‘Vasudhaiva of raw material. kutumbakam’; it is synonymous with globalization. But the unjust form of This dichotomy is highly disturbing. globalization that is prevalent today has cast a Traditional craftsmen lack essential education negative impact on traditional artisans. Small and orientation to progress. Right from objects that our artisans create very deftly are the beginning, these people have laid the also now getting abundantly imported from foundation and made significant contributions foreign countries. towards the growth of Indian economy. To help them overcome their crisis we must patronize The whole world is turning into a global cottage industries and regularly purchase market, and as a result, production challenges their products. Economic stability for them are adversely impacting the lives of artisans is possible only when they are professionally directly. An evident example is the shutting reinstated and given opportunities for holistic down of small metal smelting and refining development. This would pave way for the industries of ironsmiths, goldsmiths, and brass holistic development of the entire nation, and smiths. Large foreign and native companies we must pay attention in this direction. We don’t value craftsmanship anymore! All we value is ruthless efficiency, and I say we deny our own humanity that way! Without an appreciation for grace and beauty, there’s no pleasure in creating things and no joy in having them! Our lives are made drearier, rather than richer! How can a person take pride in his work when skill and care are considered luxuries! We’re not machines! We have a human need for craftsmanship! - Bill Watterson Art, whatever form it takes, requires hard work, craftsmanship, and creativity. - F. Sionil Jose 21 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Become a Part of the Solution, Not the Problem! Today, we are living in an age that is full of towards their families. When, in due course, their problems. All of us seek solutions to these children turn to be insolent and useless, and the problems and want improvement in our society desired results are not obtained, they take no time and the scenario. But in this quest, we begin to in blaming the school and the teachers. In this have hope and expectations from others. We are way begins the conflict in which more emphasis more conscious of our rights than our obligations. is given to the rights rather than the duties. We want to relax happily after shifting the entire burden of responsibilities on our parents, In the blind race of selfishness, we are even guardians, elders, government, administration, suffocating the Nature, in whose lap we have social leadership, and mentors. When society been nurtured and brought up. Water resources and people do not function according to our are drying up, and rivers are being polluted. aspirations, we begin to blame them. Without River Ganga is still polluted even after spending sparing anyone, we even start to blame the millions of bucks. The water of the Yamuna River Almighty and also change our object of devotion. is no better than that of a dirty drain. We readily take a dip in these rivers and consume their water The state of ignorance is such that many of us do while presuming that it would destroy our sins not even care for our family, which is the link that and sorrows. But when we encounter the issue connects us to the society. Often, people fail to of increasing filth, toxic substances, plastic, and impart noble tendencies to their children and to garbage in these rivers, we become a part of the fulfill even their essential minimal responsibilities indifferent crowd and continue polluting them The human body resonates at the same frequency as Mother Earth. So instead of only focusing on trying to save the earth, which operates in congruence to our vibrations, I think it is more important to be one with each other. If you really want to remedy the earth, we have to mend mankind. And to unite mankind, we heal the Earth. That is the only way. Mother Earth will exist with or without us. Yet if she is sick, it is because mankind is sick and separated. And if our vibrations are bad, she reacts to it, as do all living creatures. - Suzy Kassem After every storm the sun will smile; for every problem there is a solution, and the soul’s indefeasible duty is to be of good cheer. - William R. Alger AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 22

with these hazardous substances. What is this accumulate more resources with the minimum sort of devotion or adoration, in which there is possible effort has turned corruption into an not even a little sensitivity towards those who are accepted social norm, which is eating up the committed to our welfare and amelioration? roots of our social and national life. On the one hand is Japan, where a public apology is sought, Today it has become a trend to merely observe even if a train gets delayed by a few seconds. On the rituals and try to plunder the entire spiritual the other hand is our country, in which the state merit (Punya) from the culture which has been of negligence is such that there is no sentiment of meticulously carved by our ancestors through responsibility even on the occurrence of massive their tenacity and sacrifices and nurtured by train accidents. their sheer hard work. In this scenario, it would be nothing more than foolishness to aspire for The intellectuals also have crucial contribution in a better life and liberation after death only by maintaining the dynamism of democracy along observing religious rituals. How could the true with the administrative community. Their radiant conception of religion be realized which could leadership is significant in shaping society. The infuse vital force into public life, until and unless virtues of self-abstinence, simplicity, nobility, the essence of spirituality is incorporated into it? honesty, altruism, sacrifice, and renunciation are life-giving to society. They inspire the mass All the faiths give the message of truth, love, non- consciousness to follow them just like an engine. violence, justice, fraternity, and peace, then why Such credible and trust-worthy leadership had is there so much hatred, violence, assassinations, a crucial contribution during the phase of our fear, suspicion, and terror in the name of independence movement, which has subsided religion? Culture is the basis of social life. So, substantially in recent years. The society has always how can we contemplate the development of given its support whenever it got such a leadership. peace, prosperity, and happiness in the society by refraining from it? Perhaps, we got political freedom at the time of independence, but the dream of complete The absence of a feeling of responsibility independence is yet to be realized. It is not possible towards society is a great crisis. Perhaps, we have to fulfill the objective of social transformation not been able to accomplish the task of cultural without the freedom of intellectual, ethical and development, which considers our obligations cultural aspects. The task of estimating a person as the foremost aspect of religion. Almost all on the high criterion of life based on our glorious the religious scriptures have elucidated the cultural and spiritual values is still not achieved. concept of following one’s duties, but it seems There is still a need to infuse noble tendencies to be absent in our public life. The avarice to and virtues into the institution of family, and Every problem has in it the seeds of its own solution. If you don’t have any problems, you don’t get any seeds. - Norman Vincent Peale 23 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

there is still left the realization of the presumption In spite of all its commercial pressures and of a sophisticated and cultured society. limitations, the media can still be a medium of constructive communication. The readers The role of education cannot be neglected in and viewers are not interested in the false this task. It is inappropriate to limit the part news and programs; neither does the audience of teachers only to teaching facts and skills, cherish such programs that do not appear to be which is creating troops of directionless degree- appropriate to them. On the contrary, various holders. The mentor actually has to embrace motivational and constructive films and the profound gravity of the Guru and it has to creative television programs are quite popular play the responsible role of an Acharya, who among the masses. The readers are reading could teach the lessons of life through his own spiritual columns, and viewers are referring to conduct and could impart such knowledge, inspirational and spiritual videos. If this had which could help the students in becoming self- not been the case, then the devotional channels reliant and give them the valiance and prudence would not even have started, neither would which could help them in facing the challenges have constructive programs earned such wide of future life. appreciation in the web media. Similarly, philosophy and literature work are the Probably, the time has come when the media messengers of development and play a sensitive should begin to give more and more space to role. The mediums, like music, dance, and movies, positive news and thoughts. This would not are expected to deliver healthy messages along only fulfill its commercial requirements but will with entertainment. They could not be given the also achieve the great objective of the positive arbitrary freedom of polluting the young minds transformation of society. and pushing the entire society into decline. Further, if every section of the society The role of media as the fourth pillar of democracy understands its responsibilities and fulfills it is also essential in this context. All of the above- with utmost honesty and commitment, then mentioned aspects reach to society through media there is no reason that the desired changes and either purify or distort the thoughts and cannot take place in the nation. Therefore, it feelings of the masses. Today we find that media can be concluded that in these ardent moments is propagating negativity, illusions, sensational of crisis of trust, instead of discussing the crimes, violence, vulgarity, etc. However, the widespread difficulties, we should be a part media could be a source of new energy and of the solution, not the problem. This is the inspiration for the society by sharing correct and demand of the time, the primary obligation of positive information, motivational examples and the era, fulfilling of which would lead to the stories of success. welfare of every being. A person who sees a problem is a human being, a person who finds a solution is visionary, and the person who goes out and does something about it is an entrepreneur. - Naveen Jain AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 24

Malnutrition - A Cause for Concern Today, a large proportion of our population is Fight Hunger Foundation and ACF India have affected by malnutrition, in which the biggest jointly launched a campaign in India titled share is of children and women. This is the ‘Generation nutrition program’. The report primary reason for their diseases and untimely of ACF states that in the entire South Asia demise. Hunger is the underlying cause of malnutrition is not as big a problem in any other most of the disorders in children and women. country as it is in India. According to the report, Anemia and goiter in women and diseases like 28% of the Scheduled Tribes, 21% of Scheduled rickets, night blindness and even complete loss Castes, 20% of Other Backward Classes, and of vision occur in children due to improper 21% of the village community are forced to nutrition. suffer the hazards of under-nourishment. Malnutrition is the state in which the required In the present time, malnutrition has become balanced diet is not provided to the body for an a cause of concern, even for the international extended period. This decreases the immunity, community. This issue is so big that the World due to which the body quickly falls prey to Bank has compared it to the epidemic, ‘Black diseases. According to the United Nations’, over Death,’ which led to the destruction of large one million children below the age of five die proportion of European population. every year in India due to malnutrition. Along with reporting the death toll of children due to Generally, malnutrition is considered a medical the non-availability of food, it also highlights the issue, and most of us think that it is a subject of wastage of food in our country. medicine. But it is a consequence of numerous socio-political issues. Our country does not suffer The position of India in South Asia regarding the from a scarcity of food grains. The record stock incidents of malnutrition is one of the weakest of food grains is increasing year by year rapidly. even today. The surveys conducted in the states of But, a large proportion of food is being wasted Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have found that in simultaneously. The cereals produced in a year the most poverty-stricken regions of the country, could not be stored properly due to the absence of children are dying with hunger even today. The proper storage facilities; neither does it reach the report also states that if proper attention could public easily. Most of the stored food either gets be paid to this issue and corrective measures are rotten and spoiled or is destroyed by the pests. taken, these deaths can be stopped. Moreover, rotten food grains are sold out to If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one. - Mother Teresa 25 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

alcohol manufacturing companies at throwaway the average daily intake of nutrients by an Indian prices. They are seldom used for satisfying the rural person has reduced by 500 calories of grains, hunger of the masses. 15 grams of protein, 5-milligram iron, 250 mg calcium, and about 500 mg vitamin A as compared Excessive hoarding of food grains leads to their to the year 1975- 1979. This is the same India where scarcity in the market, and this increases food about 70% of the population dwells in villages. If inflation, and thus, people could not buy them the amount of food items has decreased over time easily. The greatest ill-effect of inflation are borne and people are suffering from malnutrition, then by the people of lower and middle economic groups. this can be a grave danger for our country. Everyone experiences hunger, but the poor are The main meal of small children is milk. But due helpless and often are not able to quench it easily. to the ever-increasing cost of milk, children are Do those who live in temporary houses, dwell in the not getting it in the requisite quantities. According roadside shelters and the children, elderly and others to the statistics, children below three years of age, begging on the street get proper nutrition in their on average, get only 80 ml of milk per day, while food? Definitely not. Such people are somehow able their requirement is 300 ml. to have their meals and sustain their life. Eradication of malnutrition is a gigantic task, but What is the rate of malnutrition in our country? if the people of the country contribute to this cause In order to get an estimate of this number one it would no longer be a difficult task. The most can analyze the data of the ratio of the height to important requirement in this context is of the the weight of the children. Today, over 21% of peasants because the war against poverty, hunger the children in our country are undernourished. and malnutrition could not be won until and unless In the entire world there are only three countries- proper attention is given to agriculture. Djibouti, Sri Lanka, and South Sudan, where over 20% of the children are malnourished. According to a recent study conducted in When 21% children of any country are suffering America, it has been revealed that the investment from malnutrition, then on what basis can a great made in agriculture proves to be five times more economic future be predicted for it? This is a effective in eradicating poverty than that which subject to ponder upon. is invested in cities on building infrastructure. If we really want to put an end to hunger and This issue is even more severe because, according malnutrition in our country by the year 2022, to the report of National Nutrition Surveillance then we have to increase the investment in Bureau, the present standard of food in rural agriculture and encourage farming, while also India is much lower than that which existed about making proper arrangements for taking the field- forty years back. According to the report, today, produce to the people. Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity; it is an act of justice. - Nelson Mandela AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 26

Yug Gita – 21 Lord is Teaching the Essence of Living a Sacrificial Life In the previous episode, Lord Shri Krishna for the global good. This is a universal truth. In explained that we should perform actions with fact, it is the Supreme Lord, present in all the the spirit of ‘Paraspara® bh³vayanta¡’ (that beings, who enjoys the fruits of all the actions, is, helping one another to rise and grow). Let us yagya, tapa, etc. (Bhokt³ra® yajóataps³® again try to comprehend the core of the eleventh sarvabh¿tamaheïvaram) and the same Lord shloka of chapter 3 of the Gita. is established in daily yagya. Knowing- understanding this Lord is true Vedic knowledge. Dev³n bh³vayat³nena te dev³ bh³vayantu va¡ Ð Lord Shri Krishna is explaining the essence of Paraspara® bh³vayanta¡ ïreya¡ param yagya to Arjuna to impart this very knowledge. av³psyatha H 11/3H Again and again, he is trying to explain that the core of satisfaction in life and actions is yagya, (Meaning: With this (yagya), you nourish the and that of contentment is consuming only yajóa- gods, and may the gods nourish you; thus avaïiÌta (leftover after yagya). The one who goes nourishing one another, you will attain supreme against this principle, and works only to achieve good.) selfish ends, and enjoys the fruits of actions is a sinner. These words have been caused to be said by Lord Brahma like an order. Whenever the Symbolically, Lord is explaining that the offerings human community has worked selflessly, or given in the yagya to the gods present in the three for the common good, the natural forces too lokas (Bhu¡ loka – Earth, Bhuva¡ loka – Heaven, have cooperated fully. That is, if the actions and Sva¡ loka – Entire space), ultimately reach are performed with the spirit of yagya, then a the Supreme Lord. Similarly, there are three miraculous change is observed in the external lokas within a human being – the physical body environment also. The latter automatically - Bhu¡ loka, pr³na (vitality) - Bhuva¡ loka, and transforms accordingly. mind - Sva¡ loka. In this way, we not only purify the surrounding environment but also energize It is the external natural forces that are and control our mind-body system by conducting surrounding us in the form of divine powers. On yagya. If our actions are noble and we are getting pleased, they bless us. They cooperate performing them with the spirit of yagya, then and protect the community that works unitedly our inner-selves will be refined, and we will enjoy Find a purpose to serve, not a lifestyle to live. - Criss Jami 27 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

a stress-free and blissful life. Lord is advising those sinners eat only sin.’ (Shlokas 12 and 13 of Arjuna to take up the arms against Kauravas Chapter 3) because this is the action filled with the spirit of yagya. Param Pujya Gurudev, too, gave the reins If someone tries to pocket the benefits obtained by of ‘Thought Revolution’ in our hands and said – the collective efforts of many people (Tairdatt³n this is ‘Yugdharma’ (the religion of the present aprad³yaibhyo yo bhuòkte), then according to times). Pujyawar stressed more on the need for Lord, he should be called a thief (stena eva sa¡) living a sacrificial life than performing external (second line of 12/3). Wealth earned by collective ritualistic yagya. He said – ‘Keep the spirit of efforts should be distributed equally among the Ida® na mam while performing an action.’ All participants. This is the spiritual socialism of our activities related to ‘Yug Nirman Yojana’ Lord Shri Krishna. Possibly this eighth Avatar, have been termed by Pujyawar as ‘Yugyagya – right from his childhood, revolted against the Gyanyagya’ (Ref – page 46 of Pragya Abhiyan policy of Kansa that all the milk-butter should Nov-Dec. 1982). go to the ruler. He presented an example that no one has the right to exploit society. The one who In the next two shlokas, Lord says – ‘The gods, grabs the collective gains should undoubtedly be nourished by the Yagya, will give you the desired called a thief, fallen, ignoble. This is the opinion objects. So, he who enjoys the objects given by of the Lord. the gods without offering (in return) to them, is certainly a thief. The righteous, who eat of the The society in the ‘Era of Truth’ as envisaged remnants of the Yagya are freed from all sins, but by Param Pujya Gurudev, too, would endorse those who cook food (only) for their consumption, this fact. He wrote several times – ‘There would While the battle of Kurushetra was at its peak, Arjuna and Karna were fighting each other. Arjuna would shoot his arrows, and the impact of these arrows would be so much that Karna’s chariot would go back by 25–30 feet. Karna was no less. When he shot arrows, Arjuna’s chariot would also shake and go back by 3–4 feet. Krishna would applaud Karna every time his arrow hit Arjuna’s chariot. But not once did He praise Arjuna’s skills. At the end of the day, Arjuna asked Krishna: “Oh Lord, I have shot so many arrows at Karna’s chariot, it was being displaced like a feather in the wind, but not once did you appreciate me. Rather, you would appreciate his skill despite his arrows just displacing my chariot a little”. Krishna smiled and replied, “Oh, Arjuna, remember, your chariot is protected by Hanuman at the top of your flag, Me as your charioteer in the front and by Sheshnag at its wheels, yet the whole chariot would still sway and displace whenever the valiant Karna hit us with his arrows. But Karna’s chariot is not protected by any such force, he is on his own, yet he fights valiantly”. Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals. - Martin Luther King Jr. AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 28

not be any rich or poor in a society that lives a samagri offered in the yagya fire gets vaporized, sacrificial life. Everyone would have the right to and the vapors are shared by all. Ghee (clarified use natural resources wisely. The world would get butter) dropped in Praneeta Patra (in Yagya) is liberated from the policy of forcible exploitation given to all the Yajaks for rubbing on their bodies. when the exploiting community/nation gets All yajaks apply bhasma on their forehead, throat, punished by natural disasters.’ In November 1988 right shoulder, and heart. Whatever Prasad (kheer, issue of Akhand Jyoti (Hindi) magazine, in which sweets, etc.) is left out after yagya, is distributed he announced ‘Yugsandhi Mahapurshcharan,’ to all. Thus the spirit of this ritualistic yagya is he wrote, ‘The entire governance in the New Era ‘Sarvatobhaven samarpan.’ This is not limited to of Truth would be based on unity and equality. rituals alone. Lord says, ‘This spirit should get ….The ideal of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’ would be imbibed in our breath.’ Unless we understand this implemented in the form of socialism, collectivism, philosophy, we will not be able to comprehend organization-unification, etc.’ (pages 52-53) the essence of ‘mucyante sarvakilbiÌai¡,’ which talks of liberating the Yajak of all his sins. In the modern parlance of consumerism, how befitting is the ideal of Shri Krishna and the When Lord Krishna says that saints consume concept of the golden age of Param Pujya only the remnants of yagya (YajóaïiÌÚ³ïina¡ Gurudev? It is the consequence of disobedience santo), he means to say that in any industrious of the message of Yogeshwar Krishna that today community people working cooperatively and the world is facing the flood of natural disasters. selflessly distribute the produce (the outcome In the blind race of so-called progress and modern of their work) among themselves. Such selfless civilization, people have to face challenges of all people continuously work towards getting rid of kinds. The drama of tussle being enacted between their social debt, and hence they are saved from different countries is the result of non-compliance the sin of social theft. This way, they also get rid with Nature’s policy of yagya (give and take, care of the passions of sensual pleasures and achieve and share). The process of western consumerism the ultimate goal of soul-realization. This is the and globalization starts with the exploitation of best art of living according to Hindu socialism. natural resources and reaches human hearts. It This is also an ideal Indian Culture. increases the number of people in the society who deny the due share of eligible persons and use Hinduism professes that Earth is our Mother it themselves. This ruthless tendency flourishes and we are Her sons/daughters (M³t³ bh¿mi¡ in society, the shape of which can be seen with putro´ha® p•thivy³¡). Under such a situation, we wide-open eyes in today’s world. will all benefit from a collective endeavor. As we have discussed earlier, the Lord considers selfless It is said that the remnants of yagya are distributed people engaged in social welfare to be righteous, equally among the participants. The havan and those who cook food for themselves only (ye When you go in search of honey, you must expect to be stung by bees. - Joseph Joubert 29 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

pacanty³tma k³rañ³t) to be sinners. The greedy Ann³dbhavanti bh¿t³ni people knit the web of their business for achieving parjayny³dannasambhava¡ Ð selfish ends; they don’t bother for others. They Yajó³dbhavati parjanyo yajóa¡ are not affected by the problems of society. They karmasamudbhava¡ H (14/3) are always inclined towards evil tendencies; Karma brahmodbhava® viddhi therefore, in return, they get unrest and agitation brahm³kÌarsamudbhavam Ð of mind. Param Pujya Gurudev has rightly called Tasm³tsarvagata® brahma nitya® yajóe them Narpashu (humans with animal tendencies). He has advised us to become Devmanav (a divine pratiÌÚhitam H (15/3) being) from Narmanav (a human being). How? Meaning – All creatures come into being from Then the formula is the same – Deploy your food, and food is produced from rains; rains occur resources and skills in social welfare/service and from yagya, and yagya is born of selfless action. learn to live like a perfect artist. One should understand that such actions originate from Vedic scriptures, and Vedic scriptures In this chapter, the Lord has given a touching originate from the Supreme Lord. Therefore, the explanation of ‘Yagyakarma’ to his disciple, all-pervading (Brahma) eternally rests in yagya. Hindu Prince Arjuna. The incarnated Guru, in the Vedantic language, called the fire of yagya to be Lord Shri Krishana, like an expert teacher, is Brahmagni – the power to take the yajak towards establishing new dimensions for step by step teaching Brahma. This is the fire of self-knowledge, the of his disciple Arjuna. In order that Arjuna learns crest of yagya-fire of self–surrender; the remnant selfless – God-dedicated karma and after imbibing of this yagya is divinity or the ‘Somras’ (nectar) implements this ideal in the field, Lord has considered providing the bliss of immortality. It is a divine it essential to explain the eternal cycle of karma, giving task; it is Havya, where every action is devoted the example of yagya. This is the right policy to orient to the reconstruction of society and its welfare. a youth, with a scientific mindset, like Arjuna. Consuming the residue of this kind of yagya leads to self-realization and, ultimately, God- The anna (food) that is mentioned in shloka realization. How beautiful is the explanation of 14/3, by the Lord refers to all the material objects Lord Krishna to Arjuna? He says that yagya is the that are consumed or used by the senses. These only principle of world; without yagya nothing objects are needed to augment the vital energy could be gained in this world or the other world. of people. Now, these materials are produced by This knowledge is being imparted to Arjuna for the parjanya. The meaning of parjanya is not the a specific purpose. Lord is teaching him the core usual rains; it is the shower of vitality. Such rains of the art of living in the form of a sacrificial life. occur when the environment is favorable. So With this aim, Lord is conveying the central point when does this parjanya rain? Shri Krishna says in the following two shlokas – these are caused by yagya. This yagya, too, is not the usual ritual with the utterings of swaha. It The happiness of love is in action; its test is what one is willing to do for others. - Lew Wallace AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 30

refers to the collective effort done with a selfless Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, Param Pujya motive for the welfare of the society. Gurudev, etc. kept working till their last breath. These are the legends to be emulated. What is the essence of Lord’s saying – ‘Yajó³dbhavati parjanya¡’? This means that The voice of Lord that has appeared regarding a favorable environment is formed for raining yagya is educating about the culture of yagya; it parjanya when cooperative, selfless actions is the central point of Indian dharma – spirituality. are performed for global welfare (yajóa¡ He is conveying that a human being should karmasamudbhava¡). When the parjanya rains, not remain confined to physical requirements. the anna (food) contains prana (vitality), and the The ritual is merely the vehicle of emotions. people consuming that anna possess prana (energy) Yagya is not a ritual; it is a cycle of continuous in large amounts. This is the cycle of Nature. This selfless activity. Where does this selfless action has been called yagya by Lord Krishna. bear? Lord says in the fifteenth shloka that such actions originate from Vedic scriptures, and Vedic When we assume yagya to be a ritual, we cannot scriptures originate from the Supreme Lord. understand the hidden meaning of Nature’s yagya Concluding thus Lord says that the all-pervading in the form of the ecological cycle. The crux of (Brahma) eternally rests in yagya; that is, God is yagya is selfless action. Every great man has to do always present in the collective endeavor done for it. Param Pujya Gurudev used to write six hours global welfare (Tasm³tsarvagata® brahma nitya® daily. With this lifelong endeavor, he wrote 3200 yajóe pratiÌÚhitam). We should realize this truth. books that weigh five times his weight. What was the need to write so many books? Every great Param Pujya Gurudev said – ‘Thought revolution man has to engage in selfless work to give an is the urgent need of our times. It is the master example to others. key that can open the doors of the golden future for humanity (page 48, November 1988 issue of There was one Swamiji named Hari Maharaj in Hindi Akhand Jyoti). This thought revolution Ramakrishna mission. Later he was renamed will be possible by the development of talents, as Swami Turyananda. Once, he was giving spreading virtuous thoughts, and the genesis of a discourse in Benaras. One foreigner in the superconsciousness that will be generated by the audience asked – ‘Define spirituality in one line.’ collective arduous penance (page 51, December He replied – ‘Engage in regular selfless activity, be 1988 issue of Akhand Jyoti).’ A 12-year long an example to be emulated.’ If we can understand (1988-2000) Yug-Sandhi Mahapurashcharan was this definition of spirituality, then while doing our performed collectively for this purpose. This work, we will realize what it is to be ‘aaptakam’ is an excellent example of a selfless collective (the one whose all the desires have been fulfilled). endeavor for global welfare. Great men like Aadya Shankaracharya, Swami [To be continued] Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don’t let anyone limit your dreams. - Donovan Bailey 31 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Peace Pilgrim’s Wisdom – 21 The Way of Peace – II There is no greater block to world peace, or inner good wherever we find it. peace, than fear. It has led us to manufacture implements of mass destruction. What we fear You can only expect to change one nation-your we tend to develop an unreasonable hatred for -so own. After your nation has changed itself, the we come to hate and fear. This not only injures us example may inspire other nations to change psychologically and aggravates world tensions, themselves. If any influential country had the but through such negative concentration, we tend great spiritual strength to lay down its arms and to attract the things which we fear. If we fear appear with clean hands before the world, the nothing and radiate love, we can expect good world would be changed. I see no evidence that things to come. How much this world needs the any influential nation has such great spiritual message and the example of love and faith! strength and courage. Therefore disarmament will be a slow process, motivated by the wish to Peace and freedom! These things shall be! survive. How soon these things shall be - whether now or whether after great destruction and new The darkness that we see in our world today is beginnings and eons of time - is up to us! due to the disintegration of things out of harmony with God’s laws. The basic conflict is not between Much research and experimentation need to be nations, it is between two opposing beliefs. The done on peaceful ways of resolving conflicts. first is that evil can be overcome by more evil, We can work as groups, or as an individual that the end justifies the means. This belief is very right where we are, undertaking specific peace prevalent in our world today. It is the war way. It projects, commending and strengthening the is the official position of every major nation. It’s important that what thoughts you are feeding into your mind because your thoughts create your beliefs and experiences. You have positive thoughts, and you have negative ones too. Nurture your mind with positive thoughts: kindness, empathy, compassion, peace, love, joy, humility, generosity, etc. The more you feed your mind with positive thoughts, the more you can attract great things into your life. - Roy T. Bennett Nobody can bring you peace but yourself. - Ralph Waldo Emerson AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 32

Then there is the way that was taught two thousand I don’t believe the nations would or should give years ago - of overcoming evil with good, which up other rights. People have the most control over is my way, the way God taught. Never lose faith: their affairs at a grass-roots level. Anything that God’s way is bound to prevail in the end. can be fairly and efficiently handled at a grass- roots level should be thus handled, and only In order for the world to become peaceful, people delegated to a higher authority when necessary. must become more peaceful. Among mature people war would not be a problem - it would be The United Nations would have as its job maintaining impossible. In their immaturity people want, at a peaceful situation in the world. As long as we the same time, peace and the things which make remain immature the UN would have a police force war. However, people can mature just as children to deal with individual offenders against the peace grow up.Yes, our institutions and our leaders of the world-by removing them, I would hope, for reflect our immaturity, but as we mature we will their rehabilitation. Also it should have an unarmed elect better leaders and set up better institutions. peace force to deal with war prevention. While our It always comes back to the thing so many of us nation can deal with problems like inadequate food wish to avoid: working to improve ourselves. supply, the UN would have to deal with issues like a country striving for freedom-and freedom is now The sanctuary of peace dwells within. Seek it out the desire of all human hearts. and all things will be added to you. We’re coming closer and closer to the time when enough of us will I once said to a woman who believed in war and have found inner peace to affect our institutions Christian values: “On the one hand you talk about for the better. And as soon as this happens the Christian values, on the other hand, you say, institutions will in turn, through example, affect ‘Isn’t force the only deterrent they respect?’ This for the better those who are still immature. has been our trouble down through the ages-we have given only lip service to Christian values, Peace will probably come to the world in the same and lived by the jungle law of tooth and claw. We way as it has come to our land. Out of the chaos of have quoted ‘Be not overcome of evil, overcome civil war, Indian wars and the duels of hundreds evil with good’ and then attempted to overcome of years ago has come order. Mechanisms have evil with more evil, thereby multiplying the evil. been set up to avoid physical violence, while We worship God but have no faith in the working psychological violence still endures.The smaller of God’s laws of love. The world awaits the living units, the states, have given up to the larger unit, the of the law of love, which will reach the divine United States, the right to make war. Yes, I think the within all human beings and transform them.” time will come when the smaller units, the nations, will give up to the larger unit, the United Nations, The pastor of a large Canadian church, who had one single right: the right to make war. recently returned from a visit to the Orient, told Peace is liberty in tranquility. - Marcus Tullius Cicero 33 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

me that the Buddhists are sending two thousand Now, when the Germans occupied France, the missionaries to convert the Christians to the way French would often kill the German soldier who of non-violence! was patrolling and then the Germans would wipe out the whole block in retaliation. When During World War II, an American Sunday the Germans marched into Denmark, the Danish School teacher who was in the Pacific had people began a program of non-cooperation. You captured a Japanese soldier. In marching the know, they say the way to a man’s heart is through soldier to camp, the American discovered that his his stomach-many Danish people actually used prisoner spoke English. “You know what,” said that way. They would say to the German soldier the Japanese soldier. “I was once a Christian.” who was patrolling, The American deliberated a moment and then said, “Why did you give up Christianity?” A “As a representative of the Nazi Government, look of surprise came upon the Japanese soldier, you have no right to be here anymore than we and he answered with a puzzled expression, would have the right to be in your land, but you “How can I be a soldier and still be a Christian?” are also a young man far from home. Maybe What people do not realize is that nonviolence you’re homesick, and if you as a fellow human can be applied in all situations, including World being would like to take off your gun belt and War II. I met four of the Danish people who used come in and share our evening meal with us, you the way of nonviolence and love in World War II, are welcome.” It usually didn’t take more than and it was a wonderful story. one try. After that the German soldier would get There once lived a king who announced to prize the artist who would paint the best painting depicting peace. Many great painters sent their best art pieces. One of the pictures was of a calm lake perfectly mirroring peacefully towering snow-capped mountains. Over that was a clear blue sky with fluffy clouds. The picture was perfect. Most of the people who viewed the entries of various artists thought that it was the best among all. But when the king announced the winner, everyone was shocked. The picture which won the prize had a mountain too, but it was rugged and bare. The sky looked very angry; there was lightning. This did not look peaceful at all. It looked like the artist has mistakenly submitted his painting depicting storm rather than peace. But if anyone looked closely at the painting, he could see a tiny bush growing in the cracks in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. Amid the rush of stormy weather, the bird sat on her nest with peace. Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise or trouble. Peace means to be in the midst of all the chaos and still be calm in the heart. Peace brings with it so many positive emotions that it is worth aiming for in all circumstances. - Estella Eliot AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 34

to thinking, “Gee, these are nice people. What are befriended by the English people, and eventually we doing here?” The Danes also used nonviolent got to the United States. ways to protect the Jewish people in Denmark. Now obviously this represents the most amazing I met a Jewish woman who had been married and victory of the spirit under the most difficult living with her parents in Germany under Hitler circumstances you could possibly imagine. It at the time of World War II. She was married also illustrates something else. Who or what when she was sixteen. Her first child was born was that woman’s enemy? Was it the English when she was seventeen and the second when who destroyed her home and killed her parents, she was eighteen. She was nineteen when three or the Germans who killed her husband, or things happened to her. The first: her home was the Americans who injured her and killed her destroyed and her parents killed by an English two small children? The answer is amazingly bomb. I guess they thought they were liberating obvious: it was war that was her real enemy. It her. The second thing that happened: her husband was the false belief that violence will accomplish was taken away by the Nazis, and she assumed he something, that evil can be overcome by more was dead because she never heard from him again. evil. That was her real enemy, and it’s the real The third thing that happened: she was injured and enemy of all mankind. her two small children were killed by an American bomb. When I saw her she still carried the effects Just as a human soul that faces great difficulties of the injury. Again, we were ‘liberating’ her. also faces great opportunities for spiritual growth, so a human society that faces destruction In her injured condition she wandered round and also faces the opportunity to enter a period of round with the refugees. Sometimes extenuating renaissance. I think that, barring an accident, the circumstances make you take a spiritual leap. wish to survive will keep us from a nuclear war. She began thinking, ‘They have injured and even And I think both sides will change. We will move destroyed our bodies, but they have injured their toward more economic and social democracy, own souls, and that is worse.’ She was able to and they will move toward more political and feel compassion and pray for all connected with individual democracy. The ideal society has yet the situation, the killed and the killer. She was to be built-one which balances nicely collective able to maintain such a good attitude that she was well-being and individual well-being. befriended by German people, who at the risk of their lives, got her to England where she was [To be continued] [Reproduced with glad consent of the publishers – Friends of Peace Pilgrim] Before you call yourself a Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or any other theology, learn to be human first. - Shannon L. Alder 35 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Pollution-free Air - A Necessity for Human Survival Fresh and pollution-free air, to breathe, is a our body receives a sufficient quantity of oxygen necessity for every human being on this earth. through blood circulation. It is considered that However, as per the recent reports, entire we receive 95% energy in our physical system by environment is hugely polluted all over the oxygen and only 10% by food and water. Oxygen world. Now, the question is how to get fresh and level below 90% in the physical body is known as pollution-free air for our survival. Human beings hypoxia, means a low oxygen level, which results can survive without food for some time, but in various kinds of diseases. Cancer is one major without pure air, life would be in danger. disease caused by hypoxia. The air we inhale contains, by volume, Plants are the best source of oxygen in 78.08% nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen and small our environment. Tiny ocean plants – amounts of argon, carbon dioxide, neon, helium, called phytoplankton, that live near the water’s and hydrogen [according to “Earth Fact Sheet” - surface and drift with the currents, are the major nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov]. Our physical body works contributors. Like all plants, they photosynthesize well only in the situation when every organ of – that is, they use sunlight and carbon dioxide Why should I care if your children die from dirty water; polluted air; CFCs in the environment; plastic in everything that they ingest and breath; radiation from microwave towers, communication networks and mobile phones; radiation from nuclear fallout and artificial microbes bred for specific uses? You don’t? Otherwise, if you did care, you would actually get off your seats and do something. But you don’t. You just sit back and let everything happen because you believe that you can’t make a difference, but the truth is; everyone can make a difference if there is enough of us. It’s time to put greed aside and start living with the knowledge that you can make a difference. - Anthony T. Hincks You wouldn’t think you could kill an ocean, would you? But we’ll do it one day. That’s how negligent we are. - Ian Rankin AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 36

to make food. A byproduct of photosynthesis creates red blood cells. Psychiatrists recommend is oxygen. It is believed that phytoplankton morning walk to get rid of problems like anxiety contribute between 50 to 85 percent of the and depression. Doctors recommend morning oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere. Indian plants/trees walk for asthma and TB patients or any other like Peepal (Ficus Religiosa), Tulsi (Ocimum type of lung-related issues. Those who face sanctum), Neem (Azadirachta Indica), and the problem of sleeplessness, morning walk is Banyan tree (Ficus Benghalensis) provide more considered the best remedy. oxygen than other terrestrial plants. The amount of total oxygen required for one The human body needs a certain level of oxygen person to breathe for one full year is considered for its functioning. Low oxygen levels in the to be equivalent to the amount of oxygen released physical system result in difficulty in breathing. by five big size trees. However, ratio of plants, Besides many vital organs, like liver, brain, and trees, and human beings has been disturbed in kidney stop functioning correctly due to the lack today’s world due to cutting of trees from the of sufficient amount of oxygen and results in forests and urban areas, resulting in polluted air various kinds of physical ailments. and diseased society. Oxygen is not required just for the functioning of Oxygen is a precious gift from nature to human different organs but also their growth. Therefore beings. To increase the quantity of precious right diet is essential to achieve higher level of oxygen, it is essential to keep the earth green. oxygen in the blood circulation. For example Air is hugely polluted in the cities due to limited sprouted food contains lots of fiber. Similarly, number of plants in the environment. The number raisin, dates, carrot, ginger and green vegetables of concrete houses is more than the number of include lots of antioxidants. Fruits full of plants in urban areas. Even the forests are being vitamins and herbs with high level of iron help in converted into cities these days due to increasing absorbing more and more oxygen in our blood. population. Further, there is no replacement for Another great source of oxygen is water, and trees, which are destroyed. We must understand hence drinking a sufficient quantity of water is the importance of plants and trees in our lives. We vital to acquire more oxygen in the blood. must keep a balance of plants, trees and concrete buildings in our surroundings, where we live. Morning walk and deep breathing are other sources of increasing the oxygen level in the For our healthy body and mind, our environment physical body, improve blood circulation, and must be clean. As we have discussed above, energize entire mind-body system. Bones and plants and trees play very important role in muscles become strong with regular walking. harmonizing our mind-body system. Therefore, Fresh air received during morning walk also if we save plants, they will save our lives. The health effects of air pollution imperil human lives. This fact is well- documented. - Eddie Bernice Johnson 37 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Odyssey of the Enlightened – 68 Auspicious Impressions of Sacred Energy – 3 In Katara Keshavdev: Swami Akhandanand knew young Shriram as The other day, Swami Akhandanand Saraswati a devout sadhaka of Gayatri who was a great was telling Shriram – ‘Mathura’s ancient name tapaswi as well. He was also aware that the latter is “Madhura” or Madhuvan. Our Puranas was the editor of a unique magazine of scientific (scriptures of Hindu mythology) also cite a great spirituality named “Akhand Jyoti.” Swamiji was deal about it; for example ‘Punyam Madhuvan himself associated with a magazine of Hindu Yatra Sannidhvam Nityada Hare’; meaning: the Philosophy and Culture named “Kalyan” that supreme pious Hari – Lord Vishnu/Lord Krishna was published by Gita Press, Gorakhpur. He (His grace) pervades everywhere in Madhuvan. had been here to look after the expansion of his This old city and its palaces were located mainly ashram in Vrindavan. He used to give discourse in Katara Keshavdev, a village near present town on Bhagvat Katha, in spite of taking sannyasa. of Mathura. Lord Krishna was born here, so the Some fundamentalists were against him, as grand temple as mark of this divine event should ‘traditionally,’ so they argued, a Sannyasi should also be established here.’ not narrate the Bhagvat Katha. Some of them still used to address him by his original, i.e., Shriram had earlier met Swamiji at the time of pre-sannyasa name that was “Shantanu Bihari some religious discourse in that region. Swamiji Dwivedi”. was an eminent scholar of Vedant and Bhaktimarg and an expert orator of Bhagvat Katha. He was When Shriram asked him about the suitable site, an honored Acharya of Hinduism those days. He then he said – ‘It would be better if you consult also was among the leaders who had proposed the some great saint for this. I don’t feel confident construction of Krishna Janmabhumi Temple in to suggest anything at this moment.’ But he did 1950. He was actively pursuing the progress of offer a collaborative and supportive hand to this work. Shriram’s efforts. His simplicity and modesty touched some chord in Shriram’s heart. While When Swamiji’s information on the temple’s site they were talking, someone suddenly entered his paused a bit, Shriram told him about the purpose room calling “Dwivediji”…, “Dwivediji”….. of his visit. “We would like to develop a Centre He appeared an old associate of Swamiji. He for Gayatri Sadhana in Mathura. Kindly guide us informed something in Swamiji’s ears. Okay! in finding a suitable place for it”. Swamiji said and sent him with some other Believe in your infinite potential. Your only limitations are those you set upon yourself. - Roy T. Bennett AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 38

instructions. Then he turned towards Shriram Swamiji wanted to know about Shriram’s guru. and said – “I don’t understand why some people They both discussed for nearly half-an-hour in our society, who are part of religious activities, about the purpose and plans of the tasks that his do not like others taking up a similar task. You guru had assigned to Shriram. Then Swamiji want to spread the light of righteous thinking himself said that you must do these farsighted by propagating Gayatri Upasana. Why should projects independently. He further advised - people have any problem with that? But I know, “Shri Ramkrishna Dasji who owns this land for people have been opposing you. Many of the Krishna Janma Bhumi temple is reaching here Hindu priests and swamis themselves are also day after tomorrow. He may be able to help you against my efforts of constructing Lord Krishna’s in locating the kind of land you have in mind”. temple”. Shri Ramkrishna Dasji owned the land where With this, he hinted that the two (he and Shriram) Krishna Janma Bhumi temple stands at present. should support each other. He also proposed His ancestor King Parnimal had purchased it from that Shriram should join hands with his temple the East India Company in 1815. How the ancient project and continue expanding the knowledge temple marking Lord Krishna’s birthplace here, of Gayatri through this platform. Swamiji offered was destroyed by invaders in the 17th Century, is some land on the same premises where Shriram a separate issue (It is out-of-context here). The could pursue his activities making use of his land had remained disputed thereafter. When, literary brilliance and potentials of tapa. as part of British colonization, the East India Company took charge of Mathura, this land in There was nothing wrong with the proposal. Katara Keshavdev also became part of its estate. In a way, considering the opposition Shriram Except the Idgaah region the company auctioned was facing from the religious bodies there, all other pieces of land here. King Parnimal of the proposed arrangement was attractive as it Benaras purchased it. He wanted to see a majestic would have made things easier for him. But temple standing at the site of the original temple. somehow he felt that the in-depth research on However, his dream could not be materialized for Gayatri Mahavidya could not be carried out nearly 150 years. His descendants had to face a independently under such collaboration. He long battle in the court before finally getting the appreciated Swamiji’s offer but turned it down rights of the land. politely, saying – ‘I am with you for the grand initiative you have taken for construction of Swami Akhandanandji was keen on helping temple at Lord Krishna’s birthplace. However, Shriram. He was quite hopeful that Ramkrishna following my divine Guru’s instructions, I will Dasji would give the land for Gayatri Sadhana focus my work only on Gayatri Mahavidya.’ center without any hassle. He was very The possession of knowledge does not kill the sense of wonder and mystery. There is always more mystery. - Anais Nin 39 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

impressed by Shriram’s sagacious views that the center (ashram) there as the temple will be Bhagvat is a representative of Eternal (Sanatan) developed like a tirtha, so there is going to be a philosophy of Hinduism. And that the twelve cheerful ambience of religious fete every day in Skandhas (Chapters) of this holy treatise and around the temple. Someone else suggested are expansions of the sublime knowledge that we must make full payment for that piece of enfolded in specific syllables and sonic land; it should not be accepted as a gift or with vibrations of the Gayatri Mantra. special discounts. Someone favored different area. Three days passed this way! No place could Laboratory, Not Merely a Building! be finalized from among the ten-twelve sites seen Swami Akhandanandji had also praised so far. The night before the day of arrival of Mr. Shriram’s determination to make the knowledge Ramkrishna Das passed in contemplation on and practice of Gayatri Upasana reach in every various options. house. Although, like most Brahmins and masters of Vedic texts those days, he regarded Usually, Shriram would sleep at 8 pm and get that Gayatri Mantra should not be chanted by up at 1 am – hours before dawn of the day. But anyone except the dwijas. But he also was able that night even his minimal sleep quota remained to see that this conviction was not relevant in unfilled. His mind was engaged in thinking about today’s society. His mind did see the rationality the ashram. Arguments and counter-arguments on in Shriram’s views that all sincere seekers of pros and cons of available sites kept it occupied spirituality should be allowed to do Gayatri till late night. Without sleeping or taking proper Upasana and Yagya. But his convictions and life- rest for a moment, he got up at 1 am as usual long habit somehow prevented him from openly and set for upasana after bathing. Soon he went supporting Shriram’s venture of allowing every into deep meditation. The rising sun, the focus of aspirant to chant the holy Gayatri Mantra. But he concentration in the forehead, suddenly appeared did not discourage the young, radiant sadhaka thousand times brighter and grand. Like a gigantic and agreed that everybody had a right to seek fireball its flames (radiations) seemed to spread Almighty God as per the depth and intensity of beyond the limits of space. All smog of confusion one’s faith and devotion. and (mental) obscurity vanished in no time. Shriram’s search for suitable land was on. Those His inner-consciousness reached the high realm of days, discussions at home as well revolved supreme light within. The existence of the agile around this issue. Everybody had his/her views mind had immersed in a deep trance. By the time for or against the land on the premises of ongoing he came out of this trance, it was already the peak construction of Krishna Janmabhumi Temple. of forenoon. The sun had risen in the sky. Shriram Someone thought it would be good to have felt exceptionally energetic despite a sleepless We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience. - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 40

night before. All the mental struggle of thoughts other religious and devotional activities. However, concerning the Ashram site had disappeared. His the center I have been guided to develop will be mind was feeling enthused and empowered with located in some forest region outside the Mathura supreme confidence. His angelic guide within city. I would proceed further as and when I receive had assured him that the right place would be more details.” found at the right time; there is no hurry; he should simply continue with his efforts smoothly. Swamiji’s listened to Shriram seriously and Shriram also got a sublime vision of how the site expressed his best wishes. Then the two discussed would look like. many topics of religion and culture. They both shared the concern about the misconceptions Around 10:30 am the same morning, Shriram pervading in the present times about spirituality went to Swami Akhandanand’s place. Swamiji and sadhana-upasana. They talked about the welcomed him with cheers and said – “Oh, I need to bring true knowledge in light via suitable was waiting for you! There is good news for literature, development of gurukuls, training of all of us. When I spoke to Shri Ramkrishna dedicated propagators who would disseminate it Das regarding your objective and plans, he among the masses, etc. immediately agreed to give you desired piece of land in Katara Keshavdev. Dasji has also left Swamiji thought that traditional practices should it entirely up to you and me how we implement be preserved with minimal modifications as per this new project. So now your center will be changing times. Shriram warned that drastic near the temple premises!” changes are stored in the pocket of time, which may shake up the cultural values upside down. With a pause of a few moments, Shriram thanked There is a risk of complete blockage of the light Swamiji for his kind help and encouragement. of the conscience among mankind, and that Then he humbly conveyed, in view of the means extinction of humanity itself. So there is angelic message received during meditation early an utmost need to protect people from this self- morning, “The center has to be a kind of aranyaka. disaster. This, he considered can be achieved by The inspiration I received till now suggests that the bridging the gap between the ancient (spiritual proposed center be outside the town and near the culture) and the modern (material based science). banks of river Yamuna. So I think I will not be able Their discussion continued for more than two to construct it here. No doubt! This temple-site hours. They had to close it because of other where Lord Krishna was born and its surroundings scheduled tasks. They planned to meet again for are worthy of worship, and I sincerely respect your charting out collaborative efforts in this regard idea and advice. Your ashram here may also preach and then Shriram returned to Ghiya Mandi. the philosophy of Vedmata Gayatri along with [To be continued] Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Mead 41 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Youth Column How to Become an Expert Speaker? Everyone desires to be an expert speaker, the one otherwise the outcome won’t be satisfying. who can create an impact on the audience from The research also focuses on collating the stage and leave a lasting impression of one’s references, quotes, anecdotes and examples personality on the listeners. But very few can etc. related to the topic which make the talk achieve this end. Many find the task of public engrossing for others. The other advantage speaking tough. The primary reason for this is of this research is that it infuses confidence the fear of facing the audience. This fear could be in the speaker that he has sufficient material due to many reasons, but with adequate practice now which would be useful for the audiences all these can be handled one by one. So, here or which they do not know enough yet. are a few tips that can help overcome the fear of audience and develop excellent oratory skills. 3. Know the audience well - It is useful to know what is the level, way of thinking, the 1. Grasp on the subject – This is the most needs, and the problems of the audience. If crucial aspect. Deciding on the subject of this is understood, the quality of talk can get the talk is the first point. If there is a deep matched up with their standard. Otherwise, a understanding of the chosen topic, the task of talk given without knowing the mental level of speaking becomes easier. Jumping on to stage listeners could turn out to be a futile exercise and speaking without a good knowledge of and may not yield any positive outcome. the matter is unwise. This would display one’s immaturity and may even lead to earning 4. Practice regularly – Practice plays a vital ridicule of audience. The need for a good hold role. Unless a regular order of practice is on the subject should not be taken lightly. established, a person would avoid speaking in public. After one or two failed attempts the 2. Make an outline of the talk - Clarity is needed person gives up trying as well. It is only the about the overall plan of the talk and of ideas strong will power which has the capability to that need to be conveyed which are related to convert each challenge of oration into a great the subject and which can be stitched together. opportunity. The fear of public speaking is These often take time to collate and organize; actually self-created; it is often due to laziness but this is a very important step. An elaborate or negligence, or attempts to evade occasions and deep study of the topic is necessary, for of public speaking. The only way out is to You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart. – John Ford AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 42

face each such occasion and not evade it, self-confidence. However, even if one has and make the best use of the opportunity. fear and anxiety in mind before or during the Stage fear can be overcome with courage; talk, it is possible to slowly train and improve this is the only way to gradually improve body language by facing audience with self- one’s capability of speaking in public. determination. Theatrical acting with self- confidence helps in this. When behavior 5. Train yourself - There are many ways to gets ready, the thoughts and emotions also train yourself, like, while standing in front begin to follow. Effective oration requires of a mirror, or on the roof, or in the field, or good communication skills as well which near the bank of a river. It is also possible also can be gained by continuous practice. to practice lying down in bed or sitting on a chair with closed eyes or in a meditative state. 7. Be aware of your thoughts during Whatever method you chose for practicing, presentation - It is important to be aware always assume that the audience is in front about your own thoughts and feelings of you. Such a visualization would impart during oration, which ensures a steady confidence that you can face the audience. improvement in the art of delivery. Watching Similarly, it is possible to practice the talk own expressions, style and inner state during in the form of discussion about the various oration is an important process to learn points of the talk with friends or in a group. more about yourself, and is an attempt to overcome fear with awareness. Being aware 6. Deliver a final speech - The actual oration helps in knowing where the mistakes happen from the podium or stage is the final step, and which aspect requires improvement, effectiveness of which is determined by the and what new dimensions need to be added efforts put in the preparation and practice. to oratory skills. This can also be aided by Take a deep breath before starting and then recording own voice or video. Using these, begin the oration with confidence. Keep style of delivery, speed of speech, intonation, projecting ideas, thoughts and knowledge with and quality can be assessed, and body complete awareness. Body language, facial language and expressions can be reviewed. expressions etc. have their own importance, Then it would be possible to make necessary which get determined by the speaker’s grasp corrections and the oratory skills can be of the topic, connection with audience and further refined. It’s much easier to be convincing if you care about your topic. Figure out what’s important to you about your message and speak from the heart. - Nicholas Boothman There are three things to aim at in public speaking: first, to get into your subject, then to get your subject into yourself, and lastly, to get your subject into the heart of your audience. – Alexander Gregg 43 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

Amrit Vani Plans and Preparation to Usher in a Bright and Blissful Era (Translation of a discourse given by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya on the topic “Yug Nirm³ña Yojan³ Aur Usake Bh³vº K³ryakrama”) Let us begin with a collective chant of the might fall sick or suffer in several ways, but not Gayatri Mantra: the wild ones. Then why is it that a human being, “Om Bh¿r Bhuva¡ Swa¡, Tatsaviturvareñya® despite being endowed with so many potentials Bhargo Devasya Dhºmahi, Dhiyo Yona¡ and the splendid faculty of intelligence, often Pracoday³t ||” becomes unhappy, desperate, anxious, annoyed, jealous, frantic, etc. suffers in several ways, and Sisters and Brothers, keeps complaining about something or the other? Our Yug Nirman Yojana (mission to lay the The root cause of these complications lies in his foundation of a new era of peace, progress, and emotional core, which influences his mental state, bliss) has begun with the noble aim of refinement and hence his attitude, thoughts, and behavior in and evolution of thoughts, sentiments, and a significant way. emotional development of the masses. Of the many wonderful faculties bestowed upon human It is ironical that in spite of making amazing beings, the faculty of emotions - the source of progress and advancement in producing and sensitivity, love, and unalloyed joy - is supreme. possessing enormous tools of comforts and More than the circumstances, environment of pleasures, today’s society is starving for life, or any resources, it is this faculty which is happiness and peace of mind! Surprisingly this responsible for one’s happiness or tensions and complexity and problem appear to be more sorrows in general. Evolution and righteous use prominent in the urban community than the rural of the power of emotions can also solve most of or the less privileged sections. Is it that they the problems faced by the world today. How? remain ‘contented’ with whatever they get to fulfill their hunger, whereas the more ‘privileged’ Nature has provided substantial means and ones strive for further progress? Well, but why resources for the ‘naturally healthy and joyful’ in the endeavor of higher progress they have to survival of all creatures. Have you ever heard embrace negativity, lose the peace and natural of wild animals being dissatisfied or frustrated joy of their minds? Look at our ancestral history with their lives or being concerned, worried, and of Vedic Age! How our rishis enjoyed unalloyed sad about anything? The domestic or captured bliss and peace in utterly austere and ascetic life! animals or the animals harassed by mankind Moreover, in spite of having no material resources Closing my eyes and listening close, Biding goodbye to old meadows, Let the new stories begin, Causing a new spark, Smile to each blissful morning, As the sun shines to burn the shadows of the past! - Somya Kedia AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 44

and facilities, they were far more advanced than and so on, their growth and consequent effects us in terms of physical and intellectual potentials, would continue to trouble the patient till the progress and knowledge. real cause – infection, or impurity of blood – is cured. Similarly our emotional complexity, our On the contrary, think of the life of the giant, mental contamination, our wrong attitude would mighty, intrepid, brilliant, and talented kings continue to create one problem or the other for like Ravana! Ravana was supposed to have us and also our family, friends, and others with conquered many parts of the world and grabbed whom we interact. At a larger dimension, similar gigantic treasures and facilities; what is more, is the case of adversities and problems faced his kingdom was made up of gold! Still he by the world today. Emotional impurities like remained dissatisfied and unhappy in his life and selfishness, untoward passions, greed, cravings, generated adversities for others too wherever excessive ambitions, arrogance, envy, hatred, he went. You may also find similar examples anger, cruelty, animosity, etc, of individuals today. What is wrong with such people? Mainly, have given rise to numerous problems, they lack humane sentiments, they might have disorders, disparities, anomalies, disturbances, accomplished advancement on worldly, extrovert complexities, adversities, and challenges at fronts of life, but their inner selves have remained personal, social, national and global levels. crude and might have even accumulated the filth of vices and negative impressions of unethical The ancient history of India is that of holistic thoughts and deeds. development, prosperity, and divine peace and happiness. This land was reputed as the land Impurity of blood is, at times, manifested in the of gods. But there weren’t technological tools, appearance of acne. If one pimple is removed facilities, comforts there; no one there would by minor surgery, by applying medicinal gel, or have even dreamt of the superb materialistically by some other treatment, another will crop-up, advanced development, transportation, and While you desire lasting change with positive results, it will take a commitment from you to transform your dreams into a reality. Be aware that there can be tough moments when you’re ready to throw in the towel. Frustrating times when you may want to quit. When it gets rough, or you hit a roadblock, you must forge ahead and keep going. Despite blood, sweat, and tears, do not give up on yourself. You are worth the fight for a brighter future! - Dana Arcuri Things change, so I have to change too. - Adam Scythe 45 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

communication facilities that are seen today. In Thought-Revolution (Vich³ra Kr³nti), and spite of this, ancient India was so progressive dissemination of scientific spirituality (Vaigy³nika and prosperous! People were so happy; life Âdhy³tmawad) and adept art of living a worthy was so majestic here that ancient India was and progressive life (Sanjºvanº Vidy³) are our glorified as swarg³dapi garºyasº (superior to the major initiatives as part of Yug Nirman Yojna. heavens)! This was because people lived for high It is a global socio-spiritual movement aimed to ideals; their hearts (emotional core) were full of give positive and righteous direction to people’s selfless love, compassion, and mutual respect. thoughts, to enlighten their mind, to awaken their Sacrificing self-interest and bearing discomfort divine sentiments, and thus reverse the wrong, and pains for the service of others, for the good declining trends of the present, and transform of the society, was common. Social harmony and adversities into opportunities for the courageous mutual cooperation, coupled with adoption of rise. The problems and challenges before the simple living and high thinking led to all-round world are many and appear intractable. But they prosperity in ancient Indian society. Disciplined all could be checked and resolved if their root- life and hard-work and pleasant attitude blessed cause is removed. them with superb physical and mental health. Most of the problems of today are self-created, And, what is the state of our society, our lives and consequent adversities and threats are invited today? We have chosen to forget our great cultural by mankind. The origin of these lies in people’s heritage and ignore the ideals of human life, and own thoughts, attitudes, aspirations, and mental have let ourselves deluded, allured, and driven by malice and emotional weakness. For example, the glitter of name, fame, glamour, and passions if one is lured by glamour, lavish life-style, or of instinctive pleasures. In the rat-race of worldly pompous status, etc, his needs would never be gains, outer progress, and false-pride and mindless satisfied, and so would be his thirst for more ambitions, we have lost the nectar of soothing money. If income/production is less and the peace and emotions indwelling in our inner self. population and its expenditures and demands Driven by artificiality, our sentiments of love and are more, the economy of a family, a country is compassion, our feelings of joy and calmness, too, bound to be trapped in debt. Artificial lifestyle, have become artificial and adulterated. Before it addictions, and luxuries, and the culture of inflated is too late, we must rectify this mistake, remove consumerism and commercialization have not this impurity, and protect, nurture and rejuvenate only weakened our health but also disrupted the the natural spirit of humane emotions. Yug Nirman eco-system and the environment. Yojna has emerged to motivate and help more and more people in this endeavor, irrespective of their To a large extent, cravings of the consumers creed, caste, religion, and faith. for instinctive pleasures, lavish comforts, and Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. - George Bernard Shaw AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 46

excessive possession, and passions of the blind faith, and emotional exploitation in the industrialists, business people, and traders for name of religion are to be stopped, if they are making huge profits and expanding their hold on to be awakened, taught the truth of religiousness, market-power, are responsible for corruption at a and shown the light of prudence and reasoning, grand scale. Self-obsession, greed, and mentality this can be most effectively done only through of immediate gains, success without merit, the medium of religion. As they are mostly etc., spread this evil on other fronts of personal illiterate, innocent, and deluded, we have chosen and public life. As we all know, an arrogant, to disseminate good thoughts, cultivate scientific short-tempered, narrow-minded, self-obsessed, temperament, guide and motivate them through revengeful fellow generates foes and spoils the religious platform for their uplift, welfare, and harmony of ambience wherever he goes. In a intellectual and emotional development. Socio- more expanded form, this emotional malice cultural and grass-roots educative development and mentality of individuals and its cascading activities, and self-reliance and personality effects are directly or indirectly responsible refinement training programs also are integral for disharmony and conflicts at social, national part of Yug Nirman Yojna. and even international levels. Therefore, apart from contributing to, and cooperating with, The power of religious organizations is no less multifaceted approaches to save the future of the than any government in the social context. earth and humanity, our mission’s primary focus Religious organizations should, therefore, come is - treatment of the root. forward to help social reformation and uplift. In India there are about five to six million Religious teachings and sentiments have deep hermits, sanyasis, saints, priests, or religious impact on the emotions and thoughts of those who personalities who have been surviving on alms have faith. More than 80% of the Indian masses or devotional offerings. They are spread almost fall into this category. If their superstitions, across the entire country. There are nearly seven The seeds of the future must awaken in the present. Yet one can only act according to one’s own vision of the future. If our perception of the future is short, fearful, and narrow, our motives and actions will necessarily have a similar substance. An accurate view of the long periods to come gives the pilgrim a real sense of direction. Calm observation of human life shows that selfish people are not inherently bad. They are myopes; they should face their ophthalmological problem so that it can be cured and their suffering reduced. An understanding of eternal Duration, as taught in “The Secret Doctrine”, constitutes a major source of peace, inner and outer. A vast horizon, in time and space, is of the essence along the theosophical path. Right vision leads to right action. - Sri Aurobindo There are two main predictions for the future; it’s either appealing or appalling. An appealing future is created by people who identify their real values in life and believe in what they can do. - Israelmore Ayivor 47 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

hundred thousand villages here. So if about eight of His creation – the world. I am happy to see of these ‘religious masters’ adopt one village that our Yug Nirman Yojna has succeeded in each and work for the awareness and welfare generating mass awareness in this regard and has of its people then the goal of all-round progress also motivated many to voluntarily join this noble would be achieved in a short time. They may mission. begin with teaching basic hygiene, literacy and inspiring story-telling, and discourses; they may Many of the grand shrines in our country are so generate social harmony, and motivate people for affluent that even if a fraction of their monthly collective efforts to resolve the problems specific income is used for social reformation, and skill- to their village, help them make adept use of the development projects and farsighted self-reliant existing grants, if any, and seek support of non- progress, it would significantly strengthen the governmental organizations, in the nearby region. economy of our villages. Some fraction of the Most importantly, they should inspire people’s charity received by religious trusts should be devotional sentiments in righteous direction to used to develop and support educational institutes help spread goodwill and courage, dutifulness, that would produce dedicated talents who would and spirit of collective progress. disseminate the message of humanity, and divine Indian culture and wisdom that has the potential In many parts of Indian society, people confuse not only to help revert the declining trends and devotion or religiousness with some traditional allay the adversities, but also to guide holistic rituals, idol worshiping, and offerings made in a wellbeing and progress to usher in the era of shrine. Such blind faith and practices should be unalloyed love, absolute enlightenment, and uprooted. People must understand and also make lasting bliss. In spite of its meager resources, Yug others learn that true worship, devotion, or service Nirman Yojna has taken pioneering and trend- of God is offered through compassion, altruistic setting steps in this direction. service of the needy, and sincere efforts for the welfare of all, for the beautification (betterment) || Om Shanti|| Illuminate Every Home Those desirous of enlightened transformation at personal, familial, and social level must read and contemplate upon Yug Sahitya and follow it in practice. This literature, written in very lucid and self-explanatory style is focused on resolving the problems of today and guiding the path to collective enlightenment. Good books, volumes, or words containing the pure knowledge, elevated thoughts, and works of saints, sages, and altruistic reformers carry the strength of their life-force and thus have the potential to transform ordinary mortal beings into great personalities. [Note - Yug Sahitya written by Pujya Gurudev, Pandit Shriram Sharma, Acharya can be accessed at - http://literature.awgp.org/english/book] Positive thinking is powerful thinking. If you want happiness, fulfillment, success and inner peace, start thinking you have the power to achieve those things. Focus on the bright side of life and expect positive results. - Germany Kent AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 48

Effective Measures for Plastic Waste Disposal In India, the plastic industry is worth Rs. 1,10,000 (in Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Noida, and crores. Every year 1.3 crore tons of plastic is used Visakhapatnam) have purchased this technology in the country. Out of this, 90 lakh tons of plastic is so far, and are in the process of selling plastic disposed of as waste. Most plastic items (bags, etc.) tiles to the public soon. are made for one-time use. Due to this reason, the quantity of waste is increasing at alarming rates. It According to the director of National Physical is a challenging task to manage it effectively. Laboratory, the machine which is prepared for reuse of plastic waste costs about Rs. 18 lakhs. Microplastic is dissolving in our environment, It takes a maximum of Rs. 1 crore to set up a and its traces can be found in air, rivers, food, tile-making system, using this machine. For the water, etc. This non-visible microplastic can purpose of the experiment, plastic tiles were used become a threat to our body as it gets mixed in on the pavement outside the laboratory. These are food because of its packaging. The chemicals much cheaper and stronger than stoneware tiles. used to make plastics also get in our food, which can cause damage to our lungs, nervous system, The second example is making of roads using and reproductive system. plastic waste. In Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, economical, durable, and beautiful Burning plastic is also not a viable solution. roads prepared from plastic waste, are attracting On the contrary, it is more dangerous because attention from everyone. This has also provided when you burn plastic, it releases gases that an alternative to coal tar for many industries. This are not only harmful to the environment but system of disposal of plastic waste is going to be also detrimental to our body. That is why better implemented in the whole country. Hundreds of alternatives are being discovered to dispose of cities have shown keen interest in it. This model this plastic waste. of making roads from plastic waste is so superior that it can provide reliable management of plastic For example, National Physical Laboratory, waste, and at the same time provide enough New Delhi, has developed a technology to income for the people. manufacture tiles from environmentally hazardous plastic waste. These tiles are stronger Till now, about 3,222 kilometers of urban and and cheaper than stone tiles. Four companies rural roads have been prepared from the polythene The activist is not the man who says the river is dirty. The activist is the man who cleans up the river. - Ross Perot 49 AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019

and plastic waste of Bhopal. For this purpose, 10 The roads made from coal tar are costly to 12 metric tons of plastic waste is collected from because one kilo of coal tar costs is about the city every day by the entire team of garbage Rs. 46, while the price of one kilo of plastic collectors. The Municipal Corporation has is Rs. 5, and it takes several kilos of coal tar provided 2,000 cycle rickshaws to collect garbage to build a road. The roads made from plastic from house to house. This has provided livelihood lasts 9 to 10 years, while the ones from coal for the people who collect garbage. In this way, tar last 2 to 3 years. In this way, the cost of the collected plastic is sent to the disposal plant, plastic roads is meager. Coal tar cannot be where it is refined by scientific methods. Then it is used in making roads in the areas with black used as fuel in cement plants, as well as in making soil, which is why concrete roads are built. If membrane chips for road construction. plastic membranes are used in its base, then the age of the streets considerably increases In the process of plastic waste disposal, it is by many years. burned at a temperature of 1,400 degrees. At this temperature, the quantity of toxic gases released In this way, construction of tiles and roads from plastic waste is negligible. One can get the made of plastic waste is a perfect option for its same amount of heat by burning 1 kg of plastic disposal. This option will not only dispose of as by burning 5 kg of coal. The demand for the continuously increasing plastic waste in the plastic waste is continuously increasing since it country, but it will also be useful to the people is cheaper than coal, and it is better utilized too. without adverse effects. Any attempt to solve the ecological crisis within a bourgeois framework must be dismissed as chimerical. Capitalism is inherently anti-ecological. Competition and accumulation constitute its very law of life, a law … summarised in the phrase, ‘production for the sake of production.’ Anything, however hallowed or rare, ‘has its price’ and is fair game for the marketplace. In a society of this kind, nature is necessarily treated as a mere resource to be plundered and exploited. The destruction of the natural world, for being the result of mere hubristic blunders, follows inevitably from the very logic of capitalist production. - Murray Bookchin Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty. - Albert Einstein AKHAND JYOTI Nov.-Dec. 2019 50