ராதே கிருஷ்ணா 16-03-2012
History :
In Ramayanam, Prince Rama went to forest for 16 years as a self-imprisonment, Prince Barathan (Prince Rama’s half-brother) was empowered by his mother to be the new king. However Prince Barathan grieved by the conduct of his mother, refused to accept the throne and pleaded with Prince Rama to return as the next king. Out of respect for the elders, Prince Rama did not adhere to Prince Barathan’s request. As a compromise, Prince Barathan returned to kingdom with Prince Rama’s wooden Padukai (sandal) and placed it on the throne and ruled the kingdom as a disciple to the padukai.
On numerous satsangs, Satguru Swami Gnanananda Giri, Satguru Swami Haridhos Giri and Satguru Swami Namananda Giri had stressed the importance of padukai’s worship. This form of worship is considered as one of the most powerful of guru worship. Worship of padukai literally means providing service to guru and follow strictly to the commandments of the guru. This invokes the holiest borne between the guru and the disciple.
Pranas to the Lotus feet of Guru Maharaj Sathguru Swami Gnanananda Giri and with the blessings of Swami Haridhos Giri Maharaj. The Swami Haridhos Giri Seva Samajam came into effect on the 1st of November 1999. Sri. Maya Krishnan, a devotee of Guruji, invited His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri to witness the Grahapravasam Pooja of his new house in No.7, Jalan Mahkota Dua, Bandar Baru Klang, 41150 Klang, Malaysia. A large gathering devotees and followers were there to witness this event.
During the Grahapravasam something unusual happened in front of His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri (Namaji). The coconut in the Kimball suddenly split into two, precisely and perfectly with a loud thud. The water in the coconut did not spill outside anywhere. His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri retorted that this signifies that Guruji is with us.
The first Namavali that His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri gave to the devotees who gathered in the house for the Grahapravasam Pooja was to recite the Holy Mantra – Om Sri Gnananandaya Namaha. This Mantra, Om Sri Gnananandaya Namaha was continuously chanted for twelve hours in the house.
In the Year 2000, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri visited the Klang Samajam, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri conducted a series of Satsang and discourses. During one of His Holiness discourses, Swami emphasized the importance of the Pournami Pooja and the Navaratina Maalai.
From that day onwards Pournami Poojas were conducted monthly at the shore of the waterfall in the jungles of Bentong from 7.00pm until 10.00 pm. Bentong is town in the Pahang State and is about 64 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur
During one of His Holiness Swamiji’s visit to Klang Samajam, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri was taken to the Bentong jungle, where the Pournami Pooja was conducted. His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri said that His Holiness Swami Gnanananda Giri has done his tapas here.
Every month the Pournami Pooja was conducted in the Bentong jungle. The participation of devotees especially the women and children was not encouraging, as the distance and time taken to travel to this place. His Holiness Namaji requested Sri Maya Krishnan to conduct the Pournami Pooja in his house, No 7, Jalan Mahkota Dua, Bandar Baru Klang. Swami wanted maximum participation of members, devotees, women and children to attend. From that day onwards, every month the Pournami Pooja was conducted at the above premises till today. Besides the monthly Pournami Poojas, Bhajans were held and conducted every Sunday from 6.00pm until 8.00pm.
His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri further suggested that in order to get Gurumaharaj and Guruji’s grace and blessing, The Samajam must get the Pathukas of Guruji. His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri (Namaji) said that if the Samajam members are willing to do daily Abishegam and conduct the prayers to the Pathuka, then His Holiness is willing to give the Pathuka of Guruji to the Klang Samajam.
One devotee immediately responded to His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri words and immediately donated US $1,000.00 and inaugurated the fund for the Samajam to get the Pathukas.
At the weekly Bhajans session, Sri Maya Krishnan suggested that the Pathuka be in Gold plated. The woman devotees who gathered at the bhajan session got the ball rolling by donating their gold chain on which their Thali adored their neck and donated other loose gold jewelry items.
Up to the year 2001, the Samajam did not have any official name on their own. When His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri visited the Klang Samajam, the members of the Samajam requested His Holiness to give a name for the Samajam. His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri officially named this Klang Samajam as SWAMI HARIDHOS GIRI SEVA SAMAJAM of Klang.
In September 2001, The Samajam obtained the Pathuka from His Holiness Namananda Giri (Namaji).The Pathuka was taken to all the holy places where the feet of His Holiness Swami Gnanananda Giri touched the ground. During the Yatra of the Pathuka , Sri Tanaratnam (yoga master), Sri Maya Krishnan, Sri Varatharaju, Sri Ganeshamoorthy and Sri Venugopalan accompanied His Holiness Namaji to the various places. The Pathuka was taken to Tapovanam, Siddhalingam, Attiampati (Salem ), Sree Gnanananda Mandali in Chennai, Sree Gnanananda Mandali in New Delhi
In February 2002 His Holiness, personally brought His Holiness Guruji’s Pathuka and handed over the Guruji Pathuka to Sri Maya Krishnan and Sri Jayamanoharan. at the KLIA Airport
His Holiness regularly visits the Samajam in Klang , Malaysia
In February 2002, His Holiness visited Malaysia for the Maha Kumbaabishegam for the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Taman Sri Muda in Klang, Sri Bala Subramaniar Temple in Penang and at various temples to give His Holiness Satsang and Namasankeerthanam.
During One of his Holiness visit, Sri Maya Krishnan and Sri Jayamanoharan informed His Holiness that the house could not accomadate the devotees who attend the Bhajans when His Holiness comes here. Sri Maya Krishnan and Sri Jayamanoharan expressed their wish and desire to His Holiness that the Swami Haridhos Giri Seva Samajam needed an Ashram to conduct Prayers and Namasankeerthanam. His Holiness Swami Namaji gave His approval and blessing to the Samajam to pursue this matter.
During one of His Holiness visit, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri toured the area around Taman Sri Muda , where a Hindu Temple
His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri was interviewed for a Tamil New Year program in the Malaysian Cable-TV channel Astro. His Holiness delivered a message on Guru Bakti, conduct of living and the path to Godhead.
In March 2003, His Holiness conducted a discourse on Namasankeerthanam in various temples and places namely in Sri Mariamman Temple in Taman Sri Muda, Vivekananda Ashram - KL, Sri Subramaniar Temple in Teluk Pulai, Sri Thandayuthabani Temple in Seremban and Sri Subramaniar Temple in Kajang. Besides the above places, discourses were conducted at devotee’s houses.
In September 2003, About 45 women took part in the Tiruvillaku pooja in the presence of His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri. On the same day, Swami gave blessings to all devotees with Amman Appearance.
On 23rd May 2004, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri inaugurated the commencement of the building works. The buildings works are progressing smoothly. On 28th August 2004, the Doorway pooja was conducted.
On 10th September 2004, The Samajam made arrangements for the devotees to attend the Kanagabishegam for His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri (Namaji) and Mahapooja for Guruji. A total of 65 devotees assembled in KLIA for this event. As per wish of Guruji, bhajans were conducted in the plane for half an hour before take off in KLIA in the Indian Airlines and another half an hour of Bhajans in the plane, after landing in Chennai Airport
The Samajam members attended the Kanagabishegam for His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri and Mahapooja for Guruji in Thennangur. On 12th September 2004, His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri accompanied the devotees from Malaysia Salem
1st December 2004, Opening Ceremony of The SRI GNANANANDA ASHRAM at 10.00 am. The building works has been completed and the Official opening of the ASHRAM will be conducted and will be declared open by His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri (Namaji)
The SRI GNANANANDA ASHRAM is a two storey building. On the ground floor, there is a small hall and three rooms complete with bathroom attached. One room is specially for Swamiji’s and the other two rooms are for the visitors to the Samajam. The first floor contains the main Prayer hall and for the Namasankeerthanam. Around 500 to 700 people can be seated. The area around the Ashram will be landscaped and are for future expansion.
Mission :
The Samajam is a spiritual and social welfare organization. Its main goal is to spread the teachings of “Sanadhana Dharmam” (Hinduism) through “Nama Sankirthanam” to the Hindu community.
The Samajam has its head quarters at Dakshina Halasyam, Thennangur, Tamilnadu, South India, (their website is :www.thennangur.com) and has branches in Singapore, Sri Lanka, Japan, London, Australia, USA and Canada.
The objectives of establishing an ashram is to enhance and uplift Indian culture and arts and as well as a support for social activities. It will also be a brindhavanam for persons seeking clarity, peace and self-nourishment. Some of the activities are:
Indian cultural activities
1) Meditation
2) Yoga
3) Nama Sangkeerthanam
4) Classical Music & Instruments
5) Tamil Language
6) Sanskrit Language
Social Activities
1) Provide support for orphanage and old folk’s home.
2) Providing support during catastrophic situations.
3) Spiritual Library to enhance knowledge.
Introduction to Adhi Shankara
Our humble offerings to the Lotus feet of Adhi Shankara, one of the greatest philosophers ever to grace this planet. Shankara's glory cannot be described in mere words. He is the embodiment of Jyana and His writings, clarity in his philosophy and the devotion he expresses cannot be questioned.
Adhi Shankaracharaya was born during the time when Hinduism was divided into various sects and the ritualistic practice had taken predominance over actual philosophical practice. Shankara, in his indisputable style, set out on a difficult mission and changed the outlook of the country and its people by revamping the vast Hindu literature into simple easy to understand language.
The Life of Shankara
Vidyaadhiraaja lived in the small village of Kaladi in Kerala, South India. His only son, Shivaguru, was inclined to asceticism and spirituality. However on Vidyaadhiraaja's insistence, Shivaguru married Shivataarakaa (also known as Aryamba) from a nearby village. In spite of a virtuous life, they were not blessed with a child for a long time. However the prayers at the Vrishabhachaleswara temple in Trichur borne fruit. Lord Shiva appeared as an old man in a dream to Shivaguru and gave him a choice of hundred sons who would be happy or a single son who would become a great sage but condemned to a short life and severe life. Shivaguru choose the latter. The couple was then blessed with a wonderful son and they named him Shankara. According to historians, Shankara was born in the year Nandana (26th year of the sixty-year cycle) in the lunar month of Vaishaakha (corresponding to May/June) under the Zodiac sign of the Archer on Monday in the year 805 AD. It is said that Shankara could read, write and speak Sanskrit at the age of one.
Shivaguru did not live long thereafter and died when Shankara was five, and Shankara was raised under the loving care of his mother. He started studying arts and sciences based on the Vedas. He was a prodigy and completed his Vedic studies at the young age of eight. At this age, he exhibited ascetic tendencies. Shankara requested his mother's permission to become a Sanyasa. His mother, Shivataarakaa gave Shankara her consent. He proceeded north and reached the banks of Narmada. He saw a group of Sanyasins surrounding an imposing old man, who was deeply engrossed in meditation. Shankara folded his arms respectfully and prostrated before the old man and exclaimed, "I bow down before my guru, Govinda". Govinda Bhagavatpada greeted him fervently as a long promised disciple (Legend has it that Govinda was promised this disciple by his guru, GauDapaada). During this time, Shankara became acquainted with the foundations of Advaita and wrote several Shiva hymns, some philosophical treatises, and the commentary on Brhadaara Nyakaopanishad.
At the age of fifteen, Shankara reached Kashi and started to spread the Advaita philosophy, and started writing the commentaries on the Brahma Sutras, the Upanishads and the Bhagvad Gita. During his stay in Kashi, he wrote Bhaja Govindam. In a very short time, he had established himself as an authority on Vedanta philosophy. Shankara then proceeded to tour the vast country of India. And established his philosophy. This is often referred to his Dig-Vijaya. His spiritual insights and vast knowledge won him many disciples and he won many debates. Shortly after the death of his mother, Shankara had to endure the blow of another death - his guru, Govinda. He paid his last respects to Govinda and established a temple in his honour.
In Kashi, Shankara resided with his disciples in one of the most famous ghat, Manikarnika (the earring of Shiva). This ghat is probably one of the most visited ghats and occupies a honourable place in the neighbouring temple of Visvanatha. During his regular visits to the temple, an untouchable man with a dog blocked him. Shankara requested him to go away. The untouchable man then said "Oh, Shankara! By saying go away, go away; do you mean a body made of food is asking another body made of food to go away or is it a request from one consciousness to another consciousness? Oh, Expounder of Advaita! How can you preach the Truth, when you yourself are so blinded by the outward appearances and by Maya?
Shankara immediately realised his folly and offered his pranaams at the feet of the untouchable and composed a poem called “Manishhaa Panchakam” that explemlfies that the atman shines forth equally in a Brahman and an untouchable. The "untouchable" was none other than Lord Shiva himself who wanted to remove the last traces of ego in Shankara.
Shankara continued his Dig-Vijaya and traveled around the land refuting all objectionable practices. Shankara founded
the Dasanami order of Sanyasis. As the name implies, it is divided into ten groups namely Aranya, Ashrama, Bharati, Giri, Parvata, Pori, Saraswathi, Sagara, Tirtha and Vana. To spread his teachings evenly around the country, he established Mutts in four places; Vimala Pitha in Puri with which Aranyas and Vanas are associated with the mantra "Prajnanam Brahman". Kalika Pitha in Dwaraka, associated with Tirthas and Ashramas, with the mantra "Tat Tvam Asi". Sarada Pitha in Sringeri, associated with Bharatis, Puris and Saraswathis with the mantra "Aham Brahmaasmi". The Jyotir Mutt in Badrinath associated with Giri, Parvata and Sagara with the mantra "Ayam Adma Brahma". He also installed the Sri Chakaras in many temples like Kamakshi temple of Kanchipuram, Nara Narayana temple of Badri and Guhyesvari temple in Nepal, etc. He appointed his disciples as the head of each of this mutts. He placed Sri Sureswaracharaya as the head of the Mutt in Sringeri, Sri Padmapada in Dvaaraka, Sri Totaka in Badri and Hastamalaka in Puri.
the Dasanami order of Sanyasis. As the name implies, it is divided into ten groups namely Aranya, Ashrama, Bharati, Giri, Parvata, Pori, Saraswathi, Sagara, Tirtha and Vana. To spread his teachings evenly around the country, he established Mutts in four places; Vimala Pitha in Puri with which Aranyas and Vanas are associated with the mantra "Prajnanam Brahman". Kalika Pitha in Dwaraka, associated with Tirthas and Ashramas, with the mantra "Tat Tvam Asi". Sarada Pitha in Sringeri, associated with Bharatis, Puris and Saraswathis with the mantra "Aham Brahmaasmi". The Jyotir Mutt in Badrinath associated with Giri, Parvata and Sagara with the mantra "Ayam Adma Brahma". He also installed the Sri Chakaras in many temples like Kamakshi temple of Kanchipuram, Nara Narayana temple of Badri and Guhyesvari temple in Nepal, etc. He appointed his disciples as the head of each of this mutts. He placed Sri Sureswaracharaya as the head of the Mutt in Sringeri, Sri Padmapada in Dvaaraka, Sri Totaka in Badri and Hastamalaka in Puri.
Among his disciples, the above four disciples are considered the primary disciples. Tradition says that Sureswaracharaya is the same person as Mandana Misra and he is the most prolific of writers. Several works have been attributed to him. Totaka, whose original name was Giri, was a simple person among the disciples of Shankara. The disciples of Shankara thought that Totaka was slow-witted and incapable of understanding complex philosophy systems. To teach them a lesson, Shankara bestowed more intellect on him prompting Giri to write an extempore poem in praise of Shankara in the difficult Totaka meter. Thus, he was named Totaka. Once Shankara was standing on the banks of a river. Some of clothes were on the other side of the river, where his disciples were standing. Shankara requested these disciples to fetch his clothes. Since there was no boat around, the disciples hesitated, except for one called Sanandana. He started to walk in the water and for each step he took, a lotus appeared and the disciple crossed the river without touching the water below. Hence, Shankara named this disciple, Padmapaada (“padma” means lotus, “paada” means feet).
Shankara also composed Atma-bodha, the awakening of the alman, as a favour to this disciple. Hastamalaka was considered to be an unusual child and the confused parents brought him over to Shankara. Shankara immediately identified him to be a prodigy and requested his parents to leave Hastamalaka with him. Shankara, it is said, asked even his other disciples to leave Hastamalaka alone to enjoy the bliss of Brahman. This could explain only one work being written by Hastamalaka.
Shankaras next journey was to Kashmir where he again held his philosophical acumen and triumphed in various debates. This was followed by a visit to Nepal, where he had a vision of Sri Dattatreya, (the author of Tripura Rahasya, Avadhuta Gita) guru of Patanjali (of the yoga sutras). At least three versions exist on his Maha-samadhi from this world. A place near the shrine at Kedamath is supposedly his place of disappearance. Another version says that he merged with Mother Kamakshi in Kanchipuram. Yet another version insists that he climbed Mount Kailasa and disappeared. It is generally agreed upon that he attained Maha-samadhi either on the month of Vaishaakha or Pausha in the year 837 A.D.
Coming to the life of the present form of the eternal soul of the Swamiji. He was born long ago at Mangalapuri in the
Jagadguru Sree Sivaratna Giri Swamiji could gauge the spiritual depth of the boy Subramanya before him and immediately accepted him as His Priya-Shisya. The earthly parents of boy Subramanya in their search for their beloved child came at last to Pandharpur where they saw Him under the affectionate care of the Jagadguru. They were advised properly in the matter and they could understand the secret of the advent of Subramanya. They went back after having been fully convinced about it. For over 18 years, the blessed Subramanya under went his probation under the Jagadguru. He was initiated into the esoteric knowledge of Advaita and when the time came for the Siddhi (eternal rest) of the Jagadguru - Sree Sivaratna Giri Swamiji - He transferred all his of penance to His Priya - Shishya and christened him as Sree Gnanananda Giri while granting Him the order of Sanyas. He was also nominated as successor to the Peetha of the Jyothir Math. H. H. Sree Sivaratna Giri Swamiji entered into Mahasamadhi on the Purnima day of Chitrai Every year now the Chaitra Purnima day is observed at Thapovanam in memory of the Jagadguru Sree Sivaratna Giri Swamiji.
Much moved by the separation of his revered Guru, Sree Gnanananda Giri Swamiji did not desire to continue long in the Peetha and so he nominated another Sishya as His successor and started out to the high Himalayas . For over sixty years he did severe penance at Mansorvar and other places and then moved out on 'Pada Yatra' from the Himalayas to Kanyakumari and to places outside like Ceylon, where he met a number of great men of spirituality.
His Greatness
The Swamiji has mentioned that he knew personally of the initiation given by Totapuri to Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836 - 1886) At Dakshineswar and similarly of the initiation given by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa to Narendra (later Swami Vivekananda). He has also met Saint Ramalingam of Vadalur (near present Neyveli 1823-1874). He had come across the boy Ramana in the Madurai Salem
Ardent Disciples: Swami Haridhos Giri
Swami Haridhos has been highly blessed by the Great Guru Sree Gnanananda Giri after severe tests. Swami appointed
Swami Haridhos Giri (Guruji) in Thapovanam. This is evidence in the picture in Swami's room in Thapovanam. Guruji has been commanded to take up this service of spreading Bhakti among the people all over the country. His devotion to the Guru is unique and he swears that whatever he says is because of the Grace of the Guru who inspires him then and there to say and sing. The message he got from the Guru is: "When people praise you many do not become egoistic but ignore them in all humility. And do not be worried about the insults thrown at you likewise. Then you will settle down well". This is equally a message to us all to see such a Great Guru is to know Him: "To know Him is to know God, for God and Guru are one and the same".
Swami Haridhos Giri (Guruji) in Thapovanam. This is evidence in the picture in Swami's room in Thapovanam. Guruji has been commanded to take up this service of spreading Bhakti among the people all over the country. His devotion to the Guru is unique and he swears that whatever he says is because of the Grace of the Guru who inspires him then and there to say and sing. The message he got from the Guru is: "When people praise you many do not become egoistic but ignore them in all humility. And do not be worried about the insults thrown at you likewise. Then you will settle down well". This is equally a message to us all to see such a Great Guru is to know Him: "To know Him is to know God, for God and Guru are one and the same".
Thapovanam, its Inspiration and Role today
Sathguru Sree Gnanananda Giri Swamigal established his ashram, Sree Gnanananda Thapovanam on the northern bank of the river South Pennar in the South Arcot district in Tamil Nadu about 47 years ago. The sage himself gives an idea of the role he intended for it in his own explanation of the name of the ashram.
"Tapas" is intense heat with its derivations, zeal, fervor, austerity, and asceticism. "Vana" (in Tamil "Vanam") is a wood or a forest. The Sanskrit word "Tapas" is derived from "Tap" meaning 'to consume by heat' or 'to mortify the body' or to 'undergo severe penance'. Tapas implies a concentration of the senses and the mind, a mastery of will and thought, by the habitual practice of exercising restraints over the bodily desires and affections which are linked to lower objects so that the aspirant may advance in their life of holiness.
Sree Gnanananda was a monument of a man, a legend in his own lifetime. His glorious spiritual ministry is believed to have been phenomenally long, lasting at least well over a century - none knows for certain how long. That he had conquered the process of ageing of the physical body was evident from the observation of many devotees over few decades. The core of his philosophy was the negation of the ego and all that is non-Self, i.e. body, mind, etc. Sree Gnanananda never spoke about his birth and parentage. All achievements, spiritual and temporal, belong to the realm of the ego and so Sree Gnanananda did not speak about his sadhana, spiritual attainments which was obviously extra ordinary, or even about the disciples who received his guidance. He was truly established in the Transcendental Adivatic experience, a Jivamuktha, living from moment to moment, not reflection on the past nor looking forward to a future. Thus, Sree Gnanananda's earlier life is shrouded in mystery. He was believed to have been born in the early years of the last century in a village called Mangalapuri in Karnataka. He left his home even as a boy when he experienced a special descent of Grace - Saktinipata, and was drawn to Pandharpur, the famous center ofMaharashtra mysticism, on the banks of the river Chandrabhaga. There he met his Guru, Sree Sivaratna Giri of Jyothir Math, and the northern regional mutt in India Srinagar Himalayas . After many years of Tapas, he later traveled on foot throughout the length and breadth ofIndia , as well as Tibet , Burma and Sri Lanka
At the turn of the last century, Sree Gnanananda was staying in Sampathgiri hills of Polur near Thriuvanamalai. Wherever he went, all people were drawn irresistibly of caste, creed or nationality, by the dignity and strength of his personality, no less than by his charm and childlike simplicity. In the course of his travels in the later years, he settles sometimes for some years at spots, which attracted him. Inevitably wherever he settled in any place in this manner, a small band of devotees congregated around him and as facilities had to be provided for them, an ashram would come into being. He would then remain for sometime teaching anyone who wished to learn. But his love of solitude however would impel him to disappear one fine day and retreat to a remote spot. Up to his final settling down a Thapovanam, the Swami was first and foremost a Paramahamsa Parivrajaka par excellence, and he would not allow himself to become the prisoner of any institution, even one of his own making. Such ashram or places for his stay grew up around him at Kallakudi, Sreemushnam, Sulur, Atiyampatti and Siddhalingamadam. We have reliable accounts of his stay in the last two ashrams, both of which he left, walking out of them in the same spirit of freedom in which he had originally come to these places, a true monk without any belongings or obligations. He exemplified in himself that love of insecurity and anonymity which is the hallmark of a genuine Sannyasin, and it was only as a concession to the devotees and aspirants who came to him, that he allowed ashrams to grow up in the places where he stayed.
He himself appears never to have planned or established any institution from his own deliberate choice or volition. This is entirely in consonance with his abdication of the pontificate of Jyothir Math and his philosophy of the Parivrajaka life he adopted and his life of uncompromising non-attachment and freedom. This aspect of the founder's personality has to be understood, if the role and inspiration of Thapovanam today is to be appreciated properly.
Sree Gnanananda received devotees of all ages, of all stages in life, of all races - men, women and children. They were all exposed to the transforming influence of his grace. He constantly reminded the that the human birth is rare to obtain, and it is not to be wasted in pursuit of material wealth and sensual pleasures, he pointed out again and again, that the goal of life is to realise God and the Self. He gave the devotees what they wanted so that in course of time, drawn to him by his infinite compassion and surrendering themselves completely to him, they might themselves aspire for and seek from him what he wanted to give them - the liberating knowledge.
In Attiampatti and Siddhalingamadam, uneducated common folk thronged to him and he introduced to them to the rendering of Tamil devotional lore, such as Thevaram and Thiruvachagam and taught them simple religious practices. Perhaps, Swamiji valued such simple religious and pure rustic love more than that of others.
Sree Gnanananda who renounced his title to a math, did not desire Thapovanam to be developed as a Math with himself as its head. Yet, here the glory of Adi Shankara is sung. Sankara's padukas are worshipped constantly and the homage is paid to the old traditions, particularly to that of Sannyasa, more than in any of the traditional maths.
Gurudev did not provide for a line of succession by choosing one of his disciples and declaring him to be his successor to head the ashram. But he was keen that the monastic lineage or parampara should continue and monks of the ashram pursuing Vedantic Sadhana and meditation should continue to be given all facilities in the same manner as was provided by Him.
During the final years at Thapovanam, Sree Gnanananda exhibited the entire spectrum of Hinduism in his person and teachings, just as the entire spectrum of the Indian public Hindu, Christian and Moslem came to him for guidance, consolation and inspiration. Always he aimed at elevating those who came to him. But he realised that they could be elevated only from where they already are.
It was only during his later years in Thapovanam that Swamiji have initiation into Sannyasin to a few of those who were ready. The enunciated disciples were encouraged in the study of Vedanta and the path of meditation on the formless. Sadgurudev established in 1969 his last ashram at Yercaud; called Sree Gnanananda Pranava Nilayam, specifically as a retreat center for contemplation on the Atman, the Turiya, the Ardhamatra of OM, and the pranava as the name itself indicates. He was anxious that his monastic disciples should not be disturbed by the increasing crowds of devotees who were coming to Thapovanam. This ashram in the hill station provides a fine environment in which they could pursue their specialised sadhana.
There is no ritual or communal worship at Yercaud. The pictures of Sree Gnanananda, the Buddha, Swami Vivekananada, the sacred heart of Jesus and the Kaaba of Mecca are hanging on the wall of the central hall. The monks and aspirants are to devote themselves completely to meditation and study. The older Sannyasins who could not stand the rigour of the climate of Yercaud continued to live in Thapovanam. Swamiji himself, some months before his Mahasamadhi recalled a senior Sannyasin and an advanced aspirant from Yercaud to Thapovanam.
Sree Gnanananda initiated Pada Pooja or the worship of the Padukas (sandals) of his Guru and of Sri Adi Shankara to emphasize the importance of devotion to tradition. Guru Padukas signifies the unbroken succession of the spiritual masters and their tradition. Paduka is a subtle symbol of the Guru himself in its gross form; it is, as it were, Guru's Grace in a congealed form. Through the Guru Padukas one is linking oneself not only to the particular Master but also to the whole tradition to which he belongs. Swamiji has so exemplified the spiritual tradition that He has indeed come to embody it. When we worship the Guru, we worship the whole tradition; we feel it is our Guru who speaks to us through it.
The ritualistic worship of the padukas is only symbolic of the disciple's total surrender to the Guru and his Sraddha or faith in his teachings and in the tradition. This tradition leads one beyond itself to transcendence. Devotees belonging to different traditions perform Pada Pooja. To each of them, the Padukas represent the tradition to which he belongs. Sathguru Sree Gnanananda in transcending all traditions has become the Guru of all.
Devotees of Thapovanam are well aware that their Masters is a Siddha Purusha. Even when he was physically amidst them, his presence was not limited to his body, the place or time. They have had various accounts of his operation in different planes at the same time. All this has helped the devotees to learn not to identify the presence of the Master with his physical body only. Moreover, Swamiji over the years had by his words and discourses taught the devotees the truth of the concept of Guru. Through the hymns and songs sung everyday, the Guru- Tattwa had sunk into their consciousness. In accordance with the Hindu tradition, the devotees had developed the conviction that Guru is verily God Himself. Hence, they could worship him and seek his Grace as from God, even when his physical form is no longer visible to their eyes.
The site of Thapovanam is a spot already hallowed by contact with saints and sages of yore and is located within the spiritual aura of Arunachala. It was deliberate intention that Swamiji chose to shed his body at Thapovanam so that the future generations could benefit from his powerful spiritual presence in the Samadhi situated in already hallowed surroundings. Shirdi Sai Baba declared: "My tomb will speak; my clay will give you replies. My shrine will bless my devotees and fulfill their needs. Sree Gnanananda assured his devotees that his Samadhi would be a Jive Samadhi, i.e.; he would retain his subtle body without dissolving it and would continue to shower his grace on them.
The Jiva mukta has cast off the limitations of the physical body and now his presence in Videha Kaivalya has become all pervading. An abiding Peace encompasses and penetrates the ashram premises and the very air is redolent with his powerful Presence. Indeed it is not confined to Thapovanam. As before, even now wherever devotees may be, they find his unfailing Grace and immediate support in a more potent inner Presence. They now realise the significance of his often repeated assurance. "Swami will always be with you". For him which has become all and everything, even as there is no coming, there is no going away. Although the eternally youthful, lustrous, sweet and smiling face of the sage, lotus-like in tinge and form, may not be visible to their gross vision, his continued and uninterrupted presence and constant shower of Grace have been the definite experiences of all devotees who surrender to him.
There is no Thapovanam apart from Sree Gnanananda and the inspiration of Sree Gnanananda is the inspiration of Thapovanam. We have had a few glimpses of Sathguru's inspiration. We would request those interested in a deeper study to refer to the book "Sathguru Gnanananda", - Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Publication.
Swami Haridhos Giri (Guruji) was born in the sacred month of Margali under the auspicious star of Utharattathi. He was born in the sacred
His father, Sri Nott Annaji Rao, was an ardent Bhagavatha and a devotee of Swami Gnanananda Giri. His mother was very pious soul. They belonged to a royal heritage but the princely life with wealth and pleasure had no charm for Guruji in his younger days. He too, like so may great saints, lived an ordinary life of a human being in this mundane world but his urge was taking him away from all these pleasures and pain-ridden life. Even while he was youth he was attracted to Namasankirthanam, the inspiration emanating from his father. Every Bhajan held in any part of the town he happened to live in, found him with eager eyes and throbbing enthusiasm. He gradually experienced in his own self a desire overflowing in his heart to take up this as his walk of life. Thus, the seed for a change in him was sown early in his teens.
In 1954, One day when Guruji was sitting on top of a hill enjoying the nature around him, Guruji saw a small fire about 200 yards away, he asked some of his workers at the tea plantation, where Guruji was working at that time to check it out. The workers went down the hill to check and told Guruji that they could not see any fire around that area. For one week Guruji saw that fire. Then one night Guruji heard a knocking at his door, as Guruji opened the door, Guruji again saw the fire there and suddenly it disappeared and His Master appeared before him. The Master told Guruji that his place is not here and that Guruji is for the world.
The next day Guruji told his boss about the fire and the appearance of His Master. His boss said that it is only an illusion and gave him 15 days leave. Guruji went back to Madras Himalayas to do penance. For three years and half years he mediated without water and food. Then the vision of His Master appeared before him asking Guruji to come back to his Master. In six months, Guruji walked from the Himalayas to Madras
Guruji entire personality became aware at once that his innate urge could thus be fulfilled at the lotus feet of his Master, the light of Thapovanam, Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal. Guruji became the favourite Chela of Swami Gnanananda Giri the moment Guruji touched Thapovanam. Spontaneous was the surrender too. The dawn of a Guru-ShisyaBhave life thus started.
Swami Gnanananda decided the very moment that Guruji must be to the world people. Swami Gnanananda also decided that the Knowledge and Happiness should be spread around the world and the only disciple who can spread this knowledge is Guruji.
After many trials and tests on this selected Chela, Swami Gnanananda Giri appointed Swami Haridhos Giri (Guruji) and told him to spread and sing in the praise of the Lord known as Nama Sankirthanam, as the only pathway to salvation. Swami Gnanananda Giri gave Guruji His Paduka, blessed him with the hidden treasures of our great scriptures and commanded him to undertake a life of renunciation and the mission of spreading the great cult of Namasankirthanam with a musical discourses on saints and sages who had tread this soil in a similar manner.
Guruji together with Namaji formed the Gnanananda Namasankirthana Mandali, Madras
Guruji then toured the world over to spread the Gospel of Swami Gnanananda Giri. Guruji wanted the cult of Namasankirthanam as a world movement, and it needs its own visual means of recognition and also when fraternity meets to bring about a sense of friendship, mutual trust and special greetings to be exchanged.
The Namasankirthanam movement piloted by Swami Haridhos Giri adopted the sign of two fingers "V". The two fingers represent symbolically "Radhe Krishna" .Guruji also emphasized the need for a permanent establishment to propagate Namasankirthanam. It was the command of His Master, Guruji chose Dakshina Halasyam (Thennagur Village
To say a few words of our experiences with Guruji is only to say superficially what we know about him. His mind and thought, day and night is his Lord. A shining example of his devotion to the Lord is perceivable when we sit before our Guruji to hear his Bhajans. It is stupendous; it flows from the heart of the Lord to the mind of the people.
Differences of caste and creed, race and religion, means nothing to him. He sees no distinction between rich and poor, friend and foe. He is with everyone but away from the one whose heart is not with him. In short, he is a man for the ordinary and divine for the devoted. So the divinity in him is experienced by the devotees. It is too difficult for anyone to picture the divine grace, expect to experience - any amount of writing would be an unfinished one.
One who has heard about Guruji would expect to see Him in beards and with matted locks; his body smeared with sandal paste and Thulasi Mala around his neck, and clothed in Ochre - coloured robes. But no, as he is fond of saying, he is just an ordinary devotee irrevocably yoked to his Master and dedicated to service of his fellowmen. His endeavor is to see that humanity raises its level for the betterment of mankind. When atheism is rearing its head, Guruji is spreading the belief is God, a lofty spiritual knowledge combines with a child's heart in his communion with those who seek him and those he seeks out. Often he quotes that his mission is to see that every soul in this earth sings the praise of the "Lord" and the Great Souls with devotion, thus getting out of the egoistic lives.
With undaunted courage and a free heart, he pours forth from various platforms the greatest necessity for today's men - to cast away their thirst and greed for enjoyment and self-satisfaction in this pain ridden mundane life and to join the select few great men of the past in realizing the goal through the easiest means - the Namasankirthanam. Thousands remain pinned to their seats to hear his mellifluous music accompanied by his brilliant eloquence on spiritual lives of yore. In order to propagate this ideal, under command of his Master, He parts of the world, like in Canada, London, Japan, U.S.A., Zambia, Sri Lanka , Australia, Malaysia and Singapore
With a great inspiration springing fourth by the constant communication with his Master, he has embarked on the great path of spiritual renaissance envisaged by his Guru. May all his devotees and yearning souls pray and get Guruji's blessing.
Sanathana Tradition (Hindu way of life) lays importance to Guru Shishya Order. This discipline has its roots back to the days of Vedas: Veda proclaims "Acharya Devo Bhava" meaning Guru is Lord Almighty Himself. So it proclaims, "Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheswaraha - Guru Sakshat Param Brahma Tasmai Sri Guruve Namaha". Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, Guru is Iswara - Guru is the embodiment of that omnipotent and Omniscient Brahman, salutations to Him. Adi Sankara, who brought a renaissance to Hindu Pantheon, declared that the "Brahman" is in you and in the form of ultimate intellect. That ultimate knowledge is "Self Realisation" - the experiences of the entire creation, protection and destruction in you. Having propounded the theory of oneness in you and God (Monism). He ultimately pronounced - "Guror Angri Padme Thathah Kim. Thathah Kim - Thathah Kim". There is nothing supreme than the lotus feet of Guru. Such is the greatness of "Guru Tatva". Guru leads one to light from Darkness. So he is called Guru. Adi Sankara having declared the eternal truth set four branches in four directions of the Indian Soil. In North, it is Badrikasram, in the East Puri, in the
Looking back on "Swami Namananda Giri's" early years, one can see the making of the 'Saint' in him. It is often said that one should not ponder upon the mundane life of any saint. 'Rishi Moolam & Nadhi Moolam' ought not to be explored upon. One should not attempt to investigate on the source of a River and Source of a Rishi as both are beyond human comprehension. But the course of a River or life of a Saint can be experienced as seen from the benefits the humanity receives from both.
'Swami Namananda Giri' (Namaji) in his mundane life was named as Dandapani. The name itself indicates that he will one day see the path of renunciation. 'Dandapani' is one of the names attributed to Lord Muruga. The story behind this is a well known one. Lord Siva with His Consort Parvathi, once, was having a fruit in His hand. He told his two sons, Vinayaka and Muruga that he will give the fruit to one, who makes a round of the world first. Lord Muruga mounted on his Peacock began to make a journey round the world. Lord Vinayaka in his inimitable way went round his parents and got the fruit. Muruga cursed himself and admired the intelligent approach of his brother Vinayaka. Then he took a stick in his hand (Dandapani) and robed as a Sanyasi mounted on his Peacock and flew to Palani Hills. The reality behind this incident is to express being represented by Vinayaka by going round him and Muruga traveling the entire Universe. Dandapani, the name represents total renunciation from the worldly action and plunging into the spiritual realization. This was well evident from the childhood days of Namaji. Though he was normal like any other Youth in his external activities, his mind was always in search of the eternal truth. He least interested himself in mundane activities or pleasures of life. After completing his early school studies, came to Madras
Swami Namananda Giri's Association dates back to 1950's when in contact with our Swami Haridhos Giri (Guruji) of Sri Gnanananda Giri Peetam, Thennangur. In the month of Ashada, the full moon day in the holy month is "Guru Poornima". On this day, in the year 1959, (on 7th July 1959) Sri Gnanananda Nama Sankirtana Mandali was founded with the blessings of Sathguru Swami Gnanananda Giri, at Panduranga Mandir, Vadapalani, Madras
The immortal Sri Nott Annaji Rao who was a doyen in the field of Sampradaya Bhajan, patronized the Mandali and headed the Nama Sankirtana Bhajan and taught them the Sampradaya Bhajan in the traditional style. Sri Nott Annaji Rao was a jewel amongst the Bhagawathas and he had a special soft comer for the then rustic young lad, who was keen to learn Sankeerthanam. Sri Namaji had never undergone any special training in music and did not possess any basic knowledge on karnatic music. But Sri Nott Annaji Rao had chosen Namaji as his successor and he helped him to get the blessings from Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal. As a token of his accepting Namaji as his chosen disciple in Namasankeerthanam, Sri Nott Annaji Rao had handed over his own "Jalara" (Tal) to Sri Namaji.
At a very tender age, like true disciples of the great master, both Sri Guruji and Sri Namaji went around our motherland to spread the message of our master and the spiritual teachings and of course Namasankeerthanam. They had undergone innumerable difficulties on all front as they were young, though full of knowledge, their looks prevented them to be accepted by elders. They had bare minimum cash at their disposal in their life. On many occasions they had to walk their entire distance to perform namasankeerthanam throughout the night for a paltry sum for the priceless "Nama".
It was Swami Gnanananda who spotted these talented twins, Guruji and Namaji. Swami Gnanananda initiated Guruji and shaped him, his Chief Disciple. Endowed with the grace of Guru Maharaj. Guruji became the shining star of the Great Master. Though he was in service, Sri Namaji had his mind set on "Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal" who had advised him to be a part of our Sri Guruji in all his activities. Namaji became his first follower and disciple. Namaji thereafter remained as a shadow of Guruji. He was virtually managing the spiritual activities of Guruji in the conduct of Bhajans & Melas. As said earlier, Namaji was not interested in furthering his official duties and waited for an opportunity life as he was always not interested in the routine activities. Yet, it is again the desire of Guruji, Namaji went through this Asrama - Gruhastasram - Namaji spent his entire prime of his life with Guruji and he became part and parcel of Guruji. Thus Sri Guruji had started Mandalis at various centers and Sri Namaji assisted him.
Sri Guruji had taken a few chosen disciples to Himalayas in 1993, and on September 9th, 1993, after successful completion of the spiritual tour, Guruji therefore thought fit to ordain Namaji as his successor in his spiritual mission. Gave him the Sansaya Asrama at the holy city of Haridwar on the banks of Ganges and ordained him as Asrama name of Swami Namananda Giri. Hailing at the Guru Parampara of Swami Gnanananda Giri and dedicated his life for Nama prachara and spreading the bliss of eternal happiness - Ananda, he was rightly named as 'Nama Ananda Giri' by Guruji.
It was an unforgettable occasion when Sri Guruji had perhaps intended to announce that Sri Namaji should carry on with the unfinished tasks, just the way Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal had honoured our Guruji at Thapovanam in 1973 among the chosen few. We had to face a great misfortune when His Holiness Swami Haridhos Giri took "Jala Samadhi" on 4th September, 1994 at Prayag.
After the Jalasamadhi of Guruji on 4th September 1994, Sri Namaji was inducted to the trust founded by Guruji (Viz. G. A. TRUST) as Managing Trustee. From that day onwards, he has been the spiritual guide to the devotees of Guruji spreading his Master's Voice, heard by millions of devotees far and near. The grace of Guru Maharaj coupled with the force of Guruji, Namaji shines as a spiritual star of Nama Sankeerthana Tradition.
Sri Namaji has now been touring all over the world propagating the ideal of Nama Sankeerthanam. He travels throughout the year and conducts lectures and bhajans to uplift the masses from the bondage of life. His musical discourses are well attended by the devotees who experience the Nama Ananda and liberate themselves from miseries of the world. Sri Namaji has also been conducting this Namasankirthanam every second Sunday at the Narada Gana Sabha in Chennai.
We fervently await Sri Guruji's arrival with the hope that we should be in his company again - that is what Sri Namaji says often. Sri Namaji keeps himself busy with the spiritual activities of the Peetam and Mandalis. We appeal to Sathguru Gurunathar to give us sufficient strength to share the burden of Sri Namaji's task.
Swami Namananda Giri, the Chief disciple of Guruji, is the present Pontiff (Peedathipathi) of Sri Gnanananda Giri Peetam, established by Guruji at Thennangur in Tamilnadu , India
Swami Gnanananda Giri Swamigal Swami Namananda Giri Swamigal (Namaji)
Swami Haridoss Giri Swamigal (Guruji)
Please visit: www.thennangur.com
Sathguru Swami Gnanananda Giri a disciple of Swami Sivaratna Giri of Jothir Mutt, one of the four Amnaya Mutts established by Adi Sankara, relinquished his Peetam and toured the length and breadth of India, Ceylon, Burma and Malaya (now Malaysia) before He could establish an abode for peace at Tapovanam in late 40s.
'Kalau Sankeerthya Kesavan' (chant the name of the Lord Kesava) is the catchword for emancipation of human race from worldly turmoil, said Sage Suka to King Parikshit. Then was born, the Namasankeerthanam.
Several Godmen descended to this earth to propagate the ideals of Namasankeerthanam; the celebrated Maharashtra Saints, Sankeerthana Mummurthigal, Meera, Chaithanya Maha Prabhu, Badrachala Ramados & others - the line continues. The crest jewel of Sankeerthana Tradition of this century is Swami Haridhos Giri, affectionately called 'Guruji' who lived for establishing Namasankeerthanam and made people realise the words of Sage Suka.
Touring the world to spread the gospel of Swami Gnanananda Giri, Guruji emphasized the need for a permanent establishment to propagate Namasankeerthanam. It was the command of His Master, Guruji chose Dakshina Halasyam [Thennangur village] as the abode for spreading the knowledge of Sanathana Dharma through the medium of Namasankeerthanam and at the same time imparting education on ancient texts, such as Vedas, Puranas etc. "Dakshina Halasyam" has a divine tale behind it. It is the place where Goddess Meenakshi was found as a small child by the Pandyan king, hence it is called 'Halasyam' and as Dakshina Halasyam. It is but proper to install a temple for Goddess Meenakshi at this place. Infact, there existed Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple
Human upliftment is achieved not only by spiritual pursuits but also by extending help to the poor and down trodden. This was the cardinal rule which Guruji adhered to till his last breath. He therefore established this spiritual abode, with an accent on social service to the poor. An old age home has now been constructed with 50 independent rooms with all facilities together with big Dormitory in the second floor. This premises is named as ‘Lakshmi Bhavan’ will remain a place of peace and tranquility, in an atmosphere of divinity for those who had no help from their kith and kin and need help at the evening of their lives.
Veda Patasala in the Gurukula system undertaken by the leadership of late Brahmashree Sukabrahmam Sasthrigal, a doyen in the field, is now functioning with 12 students on the rolls. Apart from Vedic education, general proficiency in English and allied subjects are imparted to students. A separate endowment is created for running this institution and this needs supplementation.
There is a saying in Tamil that 'one should not live in a place where there is no temple'. Sri Guruji, in order to blend the styles of North and South in Architecture has built a temple for Pandurangan and Rukmayee in the style and form a Puri Jagannath temple with front Gopurams on Pallava style of Architecture. The temple was completed and consecrated on 9thFebruary 1996. This temple has an unique Art decoration, first of its kind in India temple Architecture
Guruji is still with us in His omnipotent form and He is depicted in a formless-form as a Brindavan in the 'Matam' constructed in a grand form. This 'Matam' is annexed to the temple of Guru Maharaj
'Food for thought' should always be supplemented by 'Food for the Body'. A huge Dining Hall and kitchen to provide food (Annathanam) for more that 2000 persons at a time had already been constructed and completed. This well equipped kitchen with all appliances will serve the needy as well as the guests. Sri Guruji has perpetuated a scheme known as 'PPF' which will provide food for all those who come to Ashram as well as to the inmates of old age home. This fund is contributed by the Devotees from all over the world.
Tastes differ. In our Ashram, People from all walks of life will come for spiritual knowledge. A good serene atmosphere is needed. Cottages are constructed in 'Santh Nagar', and each cottage is furnished with all modern amenities for Yatri's comfort. Luxury, though not required in Ashram life, it cannot be ignored. Six luxury cottages each at a cost of over Rs.12 lakhs have been constructed. More cottages will be constructed after receipt of funds for the same from the devotees and philanthrophists.
'Namasankeerthanam' is the keyword for Guruji. A hall with all the Baghavatha Saints with their images have been decorated beautifully and it is unique. It carries the message of Sage 'Suka' in its physical form. An auditorium to accommodate more than 1000 persons with a huge stage has been built to conduct external events, discourses and other like gatherings.
It is the blissful desire of Sri Guruji to build a multi-purpose hospital to cater to the needs of the poor and needy and this project is already taken up by the Trust. Yet another project in the vision of Sri Guruji is to open an educational centre to cater the poor and deserving in scholastic and collegiate courses with due emphasis on the Indian ancient culture. This project is yet to begin. The nature and expenses of the project depend on the munificent donations from the devotees of Guru Maharaj and Guruji. This complex will be an abode for spiritual upliftment to the entire humanity without any discrimination of caste, creed or sex and this will remain a fore-runner for future generations in understanding and appreciating the catolicity of our Dharma and the values of human life. A mere glance at the colossal way Sri Guruji has set His Mission for the sake of humanity resounds the words of Guru Maharaj.
Mr.Mano of Swami Haridhos Giri Seva Samajam, Malaysia were specially flown to India to get the blessings from His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri on the invitation for Ashram opening before the invitation were distributed to devotees worldwide.
Photo: Mr.Mano & Mr.O.Raja with Swami at Gnanananda Mandali, Chennai.
Mr.Mano of Swami Haridhos Giri Seva Samajam, Malaysia were specially flown to India to get the blessings from His Holiness Swami Namananda Giri on the invitation for Ashram opening before the invitation were distributed to devotees worldwide.
Photo: Mr.Mano & Mr.O.Raja with Swami at Gnanananda Mandali, Chennai.
Ashram Opening Invitation - Special Pooja by Mr. Mano & Mr. O.Raja
Sri Gnianananda Giri Peetam, Dakshina Halasyam, Thennangur, Tamilnadu.
Special pooja at Jagathguru Swami Gnanananda Giri Thapovanam, Tamilnadu.
| (Click on the link below for the full article). |
Added on
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25/08/09
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Guruji's Darshan (contributed by Mr.Patchiappan - Selangor, Malaysia).  |
27/05/09
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| Gnana Anandham (contributed by Ms.Rajeswari Raghuraman - New York, USA). |
25/04/06
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| Swami saved my sister (contributed by Ms.Rajeswari Raghuraman - New York, USA). |
25/04/06
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| His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal's Sweet Leelas! Vada Malai ! (contributed by Mr. Havesh Nagarajan - NUS, Singapore) |
21/04/06
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| Enlightened Guruji (contributed by Dr. Mrs.Indra Sivayoham - ENGLAND). |
20/04/06
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MY SISTER WAS SAVED FROM THE SEA BY SWAMI THATHA
(contributed by Miss Lavanya Vaishnavi Sridhar (11 years old), London, United Kingdom).
Radhe Krishna.
My maternal grandparents and both my parents are all devotees of Swami thatha and Guruji thatha. My mother is very very devoted to him. She taught us all (my younger sister, my two younger brothers and me) that when we believe in Swami thatha and Guruji thatha they will be there with us always through everything, even for small things. She always believed like that and everything in her life happened according to what They wanted. We always have poojas and bhajan singing in the house which our mother and grandmother organise and we children love to sing, pray and listen to stories about Their miracles. For us too, from a very early age we have always felt the presence of Swami thatha and Guruji thatha everywhere we go, in whatever we do. I always love talking also to Namaji thatha and get His blessings before my exams or any important events or on festival days.
There are lots and lots of stories I could write from the experiences of my family and myself and it would be wonderful to write them all down. But I can write and write and write and Their miracles will never stop. It happens continuously to all those who believe in them. However something happened recently which I would like to share with you all.
It is now school summer holidays in Britain
When we went back home my sister (who is 9) told us this. The sea was a bit deep for her further on, but she came anyway since most of us were in the deeper end. Twice she fell in the water.
One time she fell, she nearly drowned. She kept trying to get out, but the waves kept coming over her head forcefully, stopping her from getting out. When she tried to hold on to the sandy bottom of the sea to try and balance herself to stand, it just kept getting eroded and she could not get a grip. Because all of us children were constantly running in and out of the sea, and there were many of us who went together, no one had noticed and no one was nearby.
She was so scared and couldn't breathe properly. From underneath she started praying to Swami thatha to save her. After a few seconds she felt a gentle push from underneath her and found herself going up. She found herself being pushed, still gently towards the shallow end and she was able to hold her head and shoulders above the water. Just as it came, the force that pushed her, she didn't feel it anymore. Her hair was plastered in front of her face and she was dripping. She couldn't see properly because the salt water was stinging her eyes but all she could see was a bright orange in front of her. She could feel the presence of Swami thatha there, with her, until she was able to get to shore and run to Mummy.
My mother and I were shocked when we found out. My Mum immediately said, ' See, this is what I always say. If you believe Him, we will never want for anything else, even protection for our lives'.
Swami thatha, Guruji thatha and Namaji thatha will always look after and bless their devotees. And I am grateful that my family and I were given the divine Blessings to have Gurus such as them guiding us in our lives.
GURUJI'S DARSHAN
(contributed by Mr. Patchiappan - Selangor, Malaysia).
Radhe Krishna.
It was nice to read so many experiences by devotee sisters and brothers all over the world. The year was 1983, at age of 21; I was blessed to spend some time with Guruji. Just out from college I did not know what to do with my life, surrounded by dark clouds. The question of existence persisted which nobody could define honestly and clearly. The list of miracles by Guruji is endless. But nothing matches one touch from Him. That's when you shall experience the Truth, Sat-Chit-Ananda.Guruji flagged off my spiritual race. He taught me the purpose of life. Once Guruji comes into your life you are saved. This was one of the Greatest Soul that came to live among us. He knows exactly your past and future. As long as one is sincere and humble in whatever position he/she resides, Guruji guides. Just like the mother hen looking after her chicks.
Guru Seva was one of His primary concerns. An excellent “Sangeetha Vidwan” and singer. Super intelligent and super humble, some words to describe Guruji.
It has now passed 27 years and still His words of wisdom keep ringing in my heart and guiding me through this samsara life. My most happiest moment in life was with Guruji, todate nothing matches it.
Radhe Krishna.
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GNANA ANANDHAM
(contributed by Ms. Rajeswari Raghuraman - New York, USA).
Radhe Krishna.
Have you ever wondered how Thapovanam was like 60 years ago? Swami Thatha was in Siddhalinga Matam before moving there. This Siddhalinga Matam is situated near Thirukoviloor between Villupuram and Thapovanam. People in and around those places will come to visit Swami, one among them is a great soul P.R.Subramaniya Iyer who gave a part of his land to build an Ashram at the present Thapovanam. This place as you know is situated on the
In those days people were even scared to go out during day time and there were only trees and bushes like forest on both sides of the road. During those times these places were frequented by Highway dacoits. They were notorious and scared each and everyone who comes to settle down in those regions. They always carried a stick which was lit and they were called "Theevatti Kollaikarargal".
Mr. Subramanian is an ardent devotee of our Guru Maharaj. He was always there in Thapovanam when we were young. He will help the Priests in their arrangement of materials for the pooja. He is still there helping in functions like Thulabharam, Pada Pooja etc. One day Swamiji was sitting in Manimandabam and He asked my mother whether she knew how Subramanian came to Swami. Amma always liked to listen to Swamiji narrating such incidents.
During the early days Swami with the help of the locals had built a small hut in our Thapovanam. It was a small parnashala with only a room for our Guru Maharaj. The villagers sometimes brought food and Swami accepts them. Swami did not go out to ask for food. Look how simple our Guru Maharaj is. His Master Shri Shivaratna Giri Swami made him the 6th Peetadhipathi of Jyothir Mutt (in Kashmir ) established by our Adi Sankara. Our Swamiji could have been a Madathipathy with pomp and show with chariots, horses and elephants following him. But he renounced it. He walked all over the place from Himalayas to Kanyakumari, must have walked on water and went to Sri Lanka and Malaya (now Malaysia South India and to this place.
I think we are the most privileged of all the rishis yogis and the gopikas. As our beloved Guruji, Swami Haridhos Giri always used to say that in Kritha Yuga, Thretha Yuga and Dwapara Yuga, one has to perform yagya yaga japa tapa etc to attain Mukthi. In Kali Yuga, we may not have time to do all yagnya yaga japa tapa etc. Bhagavan comes in the form of Saints and our Guru Maharaj came all the way to redeem us. Even at that time there were many who pose as Sadhu or Saint by wearing the noble saffron attire and cheat people.
The “Theevati” dacoits I was referring earlier once thought that our Swamiji must be one among them. People from in and around the villages started to come and have darshan of Swami. The dacoits felt that if this continues, they can no longer live in those places and plan their attacks. So they decided to scare the Swamiji and it was decided that one new moon day was ideal to plan attack.
The dacoits in the guise of the villagers came and looked inside the ashram. There was only one room with a thatched roof and a small bed and a chair in them. The Swamiji was quite old, staying alone and all these made them happy because they can easily scare him. The no moon night finally came. Swamiji knew what is going to happen. He was lying on the cot like Palli konda Ranganathar, waiting for the midnight drama. The dacoits gathered with some cans of kerosene oil. The roof was very dry because it was some time in April when the temperature was more than 100. They poured kerosene on the hut and the leader of the gang with his pandam came to the front to light the hut. They were expecting our Gnana to run away from the fire so that he will not come to that place again. What an anti climax for them. The hut did not catch fire. The gang began to panic. The leader smelled one more can of kerosene in order to make sure whether it was kerosene and poured all over the hut and lighted again. It did not catch fire this time too. So all of them knew that Swamiji was not an ordinary one who would have flown away by this time. They decided to run away instead but alas what happened to their legs they were stuck glued to the ground. Our Gnana was simply enjoying this with his eyed closed. The dacoits started shouting in chorus "Swami engala kapathunga" and it echoed all over the place.
Our Gurunathar came out and they all saw he was the embodiment of kindness. He spoke to them about the right and the wrong way. He spoke to them to lead decent life where their own children should be proud of them. He arranged with the villagers to donate some land to these folks so that from then on they can work and live decently. All of them changed their lifestyle and come to our Swamiji for blessings. One such person was our Subramanian who was so lucky to be with Gurunathar and till now he is staying in the Ashram doing all chores in Tapovanam.
Gnana Anandam will continue…
Radhe krishna,
Rajeswari Raghuraman
VADA MALAI ! – His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal's Sweet Leelas!
(contributed by Mr. Havesh Nagarajan - NUS, Singapore).
Radhe Krishna !
With Humble Salutations at the Sathguru's Lotus Feet, I take the opportunity to share the wonderful "Vada Malai" Experience at Tapovanam.
As per Swamigal's Instructions, My Aunt's (Father's Sister) marriage was performed at Tapovanam under the Gracious Blessings of Sathguru Gnanananda Bhagawan. On the day of marriage, everyone including the guests had arrived at Tapovanam. My Grandmother was busy making all the arrangements for the function. In the meantime, Swamigal was seated in His Chair at the Kovil. That day, a number of devotees and Lawyers from Delhi 
By know many Devotees were getting worried and they started praying to Swamigal asking for Pardon if they had unknowingly committed some mistake. But still Swamigal did not respond. After a long time, (may be 4 hours!) Swamigal called for a piece of paper and wrote on it "Prema Amma Vai 1008 Vadamalai Satha Sollavum" ( Ask Prema's mother to Offer 1008 Vada Malai). It was referred to my Grandmother! as Prema is the name of my Athai who was getting married that day!. My Grandmother immediately came running to the Kovil, and all the devotees contributed and immediately preparations of the Vada for the Vada Malai began and Vada Malai was offered to Gnana Hanuman. So wonderful is the Leela of the Divine Master.
Earlier my Grandmother had mentally prayed that she would offer 108 Vada Malai if the marriage function went well ! But till today she wonders with amazement and joy how Swamigal changed the number 108 which she promised to offer to 1008 on that day!! From that day onwards, offering Vada Malai to Gnana Hanuman is a regular feature at the Holy Tapovanam.
Earlier today, before writing this wonderful Leela, I was thinking what is the significance of Vada Malai to Hanumanji and the Divine Compassionate Sathguru planted the thought in my mind regarding this as follows "Vada” - A South Indian Delicacy has a circular shape with a central hole. It is made of various combinations of ingredients but in all cases, the shape is always maintained as stated above. The significance of Vada lies in its structure and its preparation.
Vada is prepared by frying in oil and thus saturated with oil, this represents Hanumanji's Bhakthi saturated with Lord Rama. The outer ring of the Vada represents the Bhakthi principle saturated with the Divine. The various ingredients of Sathya, Dharma, Prema, Shanthi and Ahimsa (Truth, Right Conduct, Love, Peace and Non-Violence) are mixed together and the outer ring of the Vada is made saturated with the Divine Name. Now coming to the central portion of the Vada, it is a Hole!, yes, this represents the mergence of the Bhaktha with the Formless, Absolute Divine (Para Brahman). When One is saturated with Unconditional Bhakthi like Hanumanji, The Divine compassionately blesses the devotee with the "Gnanam" to merge with the Supreme Divine Principle which is formless and attribute less. This represents the Gnana Marga. Hanuman who was saturated with unconditional Love for Lord Rama merged in Him.
Finally, the Thread that is used to tie with Vada as a "Malai" ( Garland
RADHE KRISHNA !
ENLIGHTENED GURUJI
(contributed by Dr. Mrs. Indra Sivayoham - ENGLAND)
During H.H. Swami Haridhos Giri's visit to England
This episode is not surprising as our Guruji has a vast empire of devotees drawn from all parts of the world whose destiny is Sadu Sambandam and they await the arrival of their Guru for emancipation from Maya and the tethers of materialistic attachments, and to show the illumined path to unison with the Paramathman. Sri Gnanananda Giri Swami, Guru of Guruji.
RADHE KRISHNA .
| (Click on the link below for the full article). |
Added on
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| Guru Paduka Puja (extracted from the Swami Haridhos Giri Seva Samajam Opening Day Souvenir Booklet) |
29/04/06
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26/04/06
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| Pearls of Wisdom (by His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal) |
20/04/06
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| Namasankirthan and Guru (by His Holiness Sathguru Sri Swami Haridhos Giri) |
20/04/06
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| State of Meditation – Jala Samadhi ! (by His Holiness Sathguru Sri Swami Namananda Giri) |
20/04/06
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GURU PADUKA PUJA
If you have faith in the Guru's Holy feet, If you have deep feeling for the Guru's Holy feet, If you imbibe the state of the Guru, Then you don't have to look for God, God will come looking for you
- Bhakta Tukaram
"The Guru's Holy feet are worshipped or revered because all the Guru's Shakti dwells in the Holy feet. If you did research into this, you would find that the vibrations of the inner self constantly flow out through the Holy feet. The nerves that come from the Sahasrara reach right down to the Holy feet. The Holy feet serve as the support for the whole body. This is the reason the Holy feet are given so much importance. More Shakthi flows form the Holy feet than any other part of the body, the glory of the Guru's Holy feet for the Guru's sandals is great. Kularnava Tantra says: "Remember the Guru's sandals, they provide protection against great diseases, great disturbances, great evils, great fears, great calamities, and great sins,"
The foot of Guru is no ordinary foot. Gurupaddangre Paadodakam Ganga . All holy waters, including Mother Ganga, live in the Guru's Holy feet. This is what you should think in your heart when worshipping the Guru. All holy waters, all Devathei, or angels, and all sacred hills abide in the Guru's Holy feet. One should have firm Sankalpa (intention, determination) to behold all Gods in guru's Holy feet. The Trimurthis - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva - live in Guru's Holy feet. These three Divine Forms symbolize the removal of the three qualities of nature that keeps the soul in bondage. The three qualities are tamas (sense of ego), rajas (passion, desire) and sattva (goodness and purity) when these three qualities are removed, then the soul becomes free or sanyaasi. In this state, one renounces desire and becomes like a stone - not senseless, but chinmaya (full of light). So, after Guru Patha Puja, it is to surrender the three qualities to the Divine Trinity. This is the significance of self surrender to the Holy feet.
Guru's Holy feet.
For the sake of His disciples, the formless Guru takes the form in Padukas. Guru lives in Padukas. A devotee should pray
"Oh my Guru, wherever my mind goes, may your form be there. Wherever my head bows in salutation, may your Holy feet be there." The Guru continuously tests the devotees. It is very dangerous for the devotees to look on the Guru as an ordinary man. The devotee must think that the Guru is higher than Shiva, Vishnu or Brahma. If one thinks that the Guru is the physical form and activities, then it becomes very easy for doubts to infiltrate the citadel of devotion, and after a while, to completely overcome it. Nothing the Guru says or does is ordinary; there is always a higher reason.
"Oh my Guru, wherever my mind goes, may your form be there. Wherever my head bows in salutation, may your Holy feet be there." The Guru continuously tests the devotees. It is very dangerous for the devotees to look on the Guru as an ordinary man. The devotee must think that the Guru is higher than Shiva, Vishnu or Brahma. If one thinks that the Guru is the physical form and activities, then it becomes very easy for doubts to infiltrate the citadel of devotion, and after a while, to completely overcome it. Nothing the Guru says or does is ordinary; there is always a higher reason.
Manduka Upanishad says: "The Guru's Holy feet are like the foundation on which a building stands. The Guru's Holy feet are the two elements in the mantra So'Ham which means 'I am that.' The statement 'I am that' (So'Ham) is packed with richness and significant meaning. The two syllables, Ham and Sa, have a number of esoteric meanings. ‘Ham’ is Shiva, the all pervading supreme reality, the absolute Being. He is the Lord or God, the support and the foundation of all things, sentient and insentient. In the form of pure concisiousness, He permeates all creatures and dwells in them as their own innermost self. The Scriptures calls this experience as Purusha, the eternal witness. ‘Sa’ is Shakti, the energy of Shiva. She is the divine Cosmic power that creates and maintains the countless galaxies and worlds. She is the consort of Shiva, the active aspect of the formless, the attributeless Absolute. She is the joyous divine energy that unfolds the universe, assuming the billions of shapes and forms that we see around. Shiva is the experiencer and Shakti is the experienced - objective universe. She is referred also as Prakriti or the force of nature. She is the energy that powers our mind and that enables us to walk, talk, eat meals, and perform our work.
The Guru Geeta also says that the Guru's Holy feet have two different lusters - one is white and other is red - representing Shiva and Shakti. Shiva is associated with the white color, and Shakti, the divine energy with the red color. In these Holy feet of Guru, Shiva and Shakti live as one and through them the disciple realizes the unity. He sees Shiva and Shakti as red and white lights shining through the Guru's Holy feet. The Guru's Holy feet should be worshiped everyday, for by their means one easily realizes the immanent and transcendent aspect of Shiva (form and formlessness aspects). Their luster radiates in the upper spaces of Sahasrara Chakra.
Within this FULL MOON in the sahasrara, we find 'pots of nectar' also referred to as 'nectar of the Moon.' This pot of the nectar has the shape of a delicate crescent moon and is downward turned. From here the nectar flows down through the Sushumna Nadi. This nectar is more intoxicating than honey could ever be. The sound (inner Nada heard in meditation) will make you taste a divine elixir. It is sweeter than the sweetest. Every drop is worth millions. By taking it you get rid of all sickness. There will be no more suffering, no more want, no more feeling of 'I and mine.'
The Lalita Sahasrahama says: "Salutations to Her (Shakti) who sends stream of nectar from the transcendent moon in the Sahasrara." The Shiva Samhita says: 'The Sahasrara is the thousand petaled lotus in the Brahmananda. In its center is the region of the moon and a triangle which continuously showers nectar. This moon nectar, which grants immortality, flows in continuous stream..."
The Paduka Panchaka also mentions that the Guru's Holy feet are cool like the nectar of the moon. In other words, just as the moonbeams cool us of after the heat of the day, in the same way devotion to the Holy feet of the Guru extinguishes the fire of sorrow and suffering and gives us peace.
The Paduka Panchaka says: "I adore the two lotus Holy feet of the Guru in my head. The jeweled foot stool on which they rest removes all sin. The Guru's Holy feet are pinkish-red like young leaves. The toe nails resemble the full moon shining in
all its glory. The Guru's Holy feet are radiant with the beautiful luster of lotuses in a lake of nectar." When the Guru Gita speaks of the water of the Guru's Holy feet, it is referring to this lake of nectar. There are number of verses that explore this image.
all its glory. The Guru's Holy feet are radiant with the beautiful luster of lotuses in a lake of nectar." When the Guru Gita speaks of the water of the Guru's Holy feet, it is referring to this lake of nectar. There are number of verses that explore this image.
The Guru Gita says: "the water of the Guru's Holy feet has the power to dry up the mire of one's sins, to ignite the light of knowledge, and to take one smoothly across the ocean of this world."
"To obtain knowledge and detachment, sip the water of Guru's Holy feet, which destroys ignorance and ends karmas, the cause of rebirth. Muktananda says it is not the water of Guru's physical Holy feet that will make you immortal; it is only the nectar flowing in the Guru's abode situated in the Sahasrara that will make you immortal, and that nectar can be received by the grace of the Guru.
In the course of meditation, when the mind becomes stabilized in the Sahasrara, this nectar begins to flow. Only after drinking this nectar can you be said to have drunk the water of the Guru's Holy feet. It is not the water of the Guru's physical Holy feet that matters. The true Holy feet of the Guru lie in the sahasrara; it is the nectar flowing from them that gives immortality.
NEED FOR GURU
(Gist of the talk delivered by His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal on 3-5-1958 at the occasion of Chitra-Pournami).
The celebration has gone to the satisfaction of all. A question may be asked “What for is this celebration?” This Chitra Pournami happens to be the day when the Light of
The world, we live in, exists in the akasa of blissful Chaitanya, which is the nature of God. It is Divine Grace that sustains it. People are aware of this manifest divine aspect, but perceive only the inert world and all the while unceasingly persevering to attain happiness; they finally find themselves struggling only in the sea of misery. This is due to ignorance. Persons who are in the grip of this ignorance, however hard they endeavour, do not get out of the domain of darkness without the aid of a seer. However much a man acquires learning in the scriptures, that learning does not avail him as long as he is not put in the inner path by a true preceptor proves ineffective in dispelling the delusion.
A man asks several persons to show him the path to Tirukoviloor (the nearby town). All of them show paths that slightly differ from each other. He walks some distance along each path shown to him, and then entertains doubt and returns back. He is restless and does not reach Tirukoviloor. This applies to the spiritual journey also towards the goal of life. That is why; one must get stabilized in devotion to a single preceptor and in the pursuit of a single discipline.
It is on the Guru who, depending upon the latent impressions of his past life and mental fitness can show an individual the appropriate path and, what is more, can impart to him the needed vigour to pursue the proper discipline that lead to the goal. Sri Rama and Sri Krishna have shown the way by undergoing similar training under Sri Viswamitra and Sri Sandeepany respectively. In a similar way the gem-like disciples Sri Totakacharya, Sri Padmapadacharya, Sri Hamstamalakacharya and Sri Sureswaracharya, of Sri Sankara Bhagavad Pada have lived at the hermitage of their Guru and set a worthy example to us.
What need is there for a Guru? Cannot we ourselves read books and know God? We may ask. Even if the God Vishnu were to appear in His form with four hands holding conch, disc and mace, laymen with their minds full of undesirable tendencies, will yet suspect Him and call it a deception. Duryodhana, who witnessed the cosmic form of Krishna , is himself a striking example of this trait.
In the holy region of Kashmir , there was a huge banyan tree that served as a retreat for several Sadhus for a long period. Even as the seeds of a tree are borne to distant places through winds or birds, a seed of this banyan tree of wisdom, by virtue of Divine Will, has reached this Thapovanam.
One of the songs of Pattinathar describes the nature of a true ascetic:
The meaning of this verse is: A man who has taken to ascetic order by abandoning all external attachment is several hundred times greater than a householder; a man who has abandoned even internal attachment is several hundred times greater than the man who has only external renunciation. Oh the God of Kanchi ! How am I to praise the greatness of one who takes to the study of scripture with a view to destroy the sacrilegious, abides in Supreme Intelligence, transcends the pair of pleasure and pain and annihilates the mind.
All the qualities mentioned at the last portion of this fine utterance of Pattinathar adorned my gracious preceptor in fullest measure. This day is the auspicious Day of Remembrance of that Great Soul.
The souls, depending upon their past karma, takes lives in the world. If people do not let the mind go the way it drags, and direct it by controlling it through intellect towards God, it is possible to burn away the cotton-like heap of past karma and attain realization. The Self is the witness of all acts of individual souls. But the individual soul (Jivatma) is in the grip of a darkness like the one that exists in the new moon night. This darkness does not get dispelled by anyone except the Sathguru.
Even as a boat is needed to cross a vast ocean, a Sathguru is needed to cross the ocean of agnana, ignorance and to impart the vision of the Supreme. It is necessary to culture the mind before seeking the aid of a Guru. Towards this end, one has to practice devotion consisting of nine parts like sravanam, learning etc. It is also necessary to adhere to a single preceptor, a single mantra, and a single discipline. One should also seek the company of saints and liberated men living around and serve them. Sathguru, depending upon the inner fitness of the individual, initiates him in the discipline of either karma, action, bhakthi, devotion or Gnana, wisdom.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
(By His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal)
His Holiness Sathguru Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal used to guide the spiritual aspirants through letters. Here is an English translation of one such letter written to a devotee. The translation does not, of course, faithfully reflect the precise meaning of the original.
- Remove the three obstacles.
- Cleanse yourself of three impurities.
- Extinguish the two deeds.
- Practise forbearance also.
- Protect yourself against ignorance and delusion.
- Drive away the demon of desire.
- Have compassion for all living beings.
- Have faith in Divinity.
- Have companionship with men-of-wisdom.
- Shun the wicked.
- Be humble towards everyone.
- Utter kind words.
- Annihilate the ego.
- Be firmly absorbed in the self.
- Perform without fail your duty with peace and tranquility.
- Be desirous of helping other living beings.
- Do not desire other’s help.
- Ignore the knowledge derived through the five senses.
- Enrich the knowledge of Truth Absolute.
- Pass your days retreating within and detached from the sense-objects of the external world.
Let us pray the Omnipotent Almighty for His Grace.
Om Tat Sat
Siddhalingamadam
17th March 1955
NAMASANKIRTHAN AND GURU
(By His Holiness Sathguru Sri Swami Haridhos Giri) Share3
The age of Kali is the best of all the four ages of Krita, Dwapara, Treta and Kali. The other Yugas are comparable to the flower, the tender and unripe fruit, while the Kaliyuga is the ripe fruit. In this age one may obtain the Sannidhya of the Lord by mere utterance of Lord's name. In other ages the performance of difficult and arduous penance was the 'sine quanon' of, such realisation. Thapas under five fires, controlling the fires in the body and living on air were some of the arduous penances performed in other ages. But in the age of 'KALI' even the very remembrance of the Lord carries one to the Feet of the Universal Father. May we all pray to attain His Holy Feet through such easy means!
Birth and death are two great afflictions living beings are subjected to on account of 'Karma'. Death awaits round the corner all embodied beings. Thought of death makes one's body and soul shake with fear. The mind wonders 'Is there no remedy to avert both these afflictions?' The Shastras proclaim that there is only one remedy to avert the great sorrow of death and the great disease of birth as also to yield great joy here and hereafter. The Gnanis, Acharyas and the Realised Souls, descendants of Maharshis of yore, having obtained and partaken this great remedy and enjoyed bliss, have in their generosity served the remedy to those who have sought it. And this remedy is 'GURU BHAKTI'. Nothing Else!
We have taken, birth as human beings. It is on account of great merit that it is so. Other births come out on account of sin. We see so many other living creatures. But from the lives of saints we observe that it is in this human body that one is able to achieve what is good here and hereafter. Saints are the life blood and sustenance of the Universe. In accordance with the teachings of Guru, we have to look on this world as the 'Lila of the Lord' and the Jivas as many walking temples. To live according to the teachings of Guru is the best proof of 'Guru Bhakti.'
Selfless service to others generates love in ourselves. Therefore love flows in our minds and we realise the Lord of love personified and dive deep in the ocean of 'Ananda'. This is the end and aim of human life.
Celebrations of our Gurus are the proof of the devotees' Guru Bhakti and this is also a Gnana Yagna. Sath Sang, prayer to Sathguru, Pranayama, the wise sayings of the Gnanis, Nama Sankirtans, and lectures are all various items of this Yagna. Among Nava Vidha Bhakti, Nama Sankirtan is the best. It is confirmed by the great Bhaktas of our Punya Bhoomi. It was their practical and precise experience towards immortal happiness.
We need decent dress to wear and protect us from heat and cold. So we get good clothes, measured by good tailor who cuts the cloth appropriately and stitches the same which adorns our bodies. Similarly our minds have also to be protected against heat and cold, pleasures and pains, sukha and dukha, and birth and death. The dress that we use and need for this purpose to protect our minds is 'NAMA SANKIRTAN'. The tailor who measures us in all respects and fits the apparel of Bhajan to suit us in all ways is our SATHGURU.
His teachings in this regard need our attention. Nama Sankirtan is our excellent means for Bhakti Yoga. And the easiest of all Yogas is 'Bhakti'. Each one may select the name of that Lord that suits and attracts him most and sing the melodious songs composed on Him by His real devotees to achieve one-pointedness of the mind. Nothing helps more than Bhajan. The best form of collective worship is 'Nama Sankirtan.'
Nama Sankirtan is really a tasty one. 'I do not desire to become a singer, but desire always to be tasting its sweetness' says a great devotee; meaning thereby that he does not desire to merge in the infinite but only to revel in the delight of singing the glory of the Lord. This is proof of the sweetness of 'Nama Sankirtan'.
To devote attention solely to the music aspect of the Bhajan without understanding the importance of the words used is not the way to enjoy the full benefit of Bhajan. It is needful to appreciate the full meaning of the words as also the music and forget oneself therein in order to extract the maximum benefit of Nama Sankirtan. If the meaning is not appreciated, then one derives no benefit from the Bhajan. Only when the joy of music leads on to enjoyment of the Lakshiya, then only we are able to enjoy the joy of the Divine. That is the end of GNANA.
So it is clear that songs must be sung with full appreciation both of its meaning and music. Guru is God in human form. Even as the hill-dwellers burn grass to cut a footpath or make a field, so too does a Guru tell the people what to do and what not to do. Sri Adi Sankara, the Nayanmars, Ramdas, Tukaram, Namdev, Kabir, Mira are among the thousands of saints who showed the way of Bhakti Yoga through Bhajan, and also have composed songs in praise of the Lord. Following their footsteps without the abuse of music to wrong ends and devoting music solely for the development of Bhakti, may we attain the one-pointedness of mind and enjoy bliss.
Some people seem to harbour the wrong notion that Bhajan is meant only for uncultured people. This is a sinful thought. To remove such ill-conceived thought, Sri Bodendra Swamigal graced this land by his divine Avatar and has given us the method of doing Bhajan. So let us follow our Guru, and obtain through the grace of Sathguru the Lord and infinite joy.
May the ALMIGHTY bless every one of HIS CREATION!
JAI SRI RAMA KRISHNA HARI !!
JAI SRI RADHAKRISHNA HARI !!
JAI SATHGURU GNANANANDA !!
STATE OF MEDITATION
(English translation of an article in Tamil written by His Holiness Sathguru Sri Swami Namananda Giri)
One’s lifestyle is filled with an array of habits and practices. It is often not possible to see any two homes with the same practice. Even if you find a phenomenon where two homes share the same practice, the methodology would differ significantly. A good example of this would be the “Varalakshmi Viratham”. Not all families tend to celebrate this occasion. A girl may celebrate the occasion during her maidenhood days. But she may marry into a family which does not practice the celebration of Varalakshmi Viratham, we often get to see certain people who spend their lives giving and donating to the society. When we reflect on these people, we say things like “His grandfather was just like him. So was his father”. Thus we see certain values being followed generation after generation. We now are able to understand via our experience that much of one’s habit and practices are passed down from one generation to another. Likewise there is a great lineage of Gurus in the spiritual world known as the “Guruparampara”.
The Guruparampara is one which advocates and administers goodness and teaches us to get rid or stay away from evil. There have been many such Paramparas in the world to help us move up the spiritual plane. One of which is the Guru Parampara of the “Adwaitha” philosophy. The first Guru of this parampara is Adi Sankara. One of the great saints who came in this parampara was none other than our Guruji (Swami Haridhos Giri).
Adi Sankara established Jyothir Mutt in North India and one of the “Peedathipathis” was Sri Sri Sivarathina Giri Swami. Next in line was our Sathgurunathar Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamigal. Following our Sathgurunathar was his best and most loved disciple; Swami Haridhos Giri. Family practices do not stop!
When we analyses the lives of our great lineage of gurus, we are often awe-struck with our findings. Why is this so? Let us look at the lives of three saints in our guru parampara:-
- Sri Sri Sivarathina Giri Swami
- Sri Gnanananda Giri Swamil
- Sri Haridhos Giri Swami
Sri Sivarathina Giri Swami handed over the administration of his mutt to one of his disciples and went towards “Manasarovar” in Mount Kailash
Our Sathgurunathar Swami Gnanananda Giri was devastated upon the separation of his Guru. One can easily bear all forms of sadness, but to be separated from one’s guru is something which is unbearable and thus our Sathgurunathar decided to leave the mutt and go in the same way his guru went. He too went towards “Manasarovar”. He too stepped into the river and soon was totally submerged. There he sat for may years in the same state of Samadhi as his guru. Thus just like his guru, he came out of his Samadhi state upon receiving an order from his guru to bring goodness to the world, to help people cross sea of births and deaths and to vanquish the sorrow of people! Only because of this had we been blessed to find our Sathgurunathar.
There have been many who are blessed by our Sathgurunathar. One such disciple was Brahmanandar. There was an occasion when Brahmanandar argued with Sathgurunathar and earned the displeasure of our Sathgurunathar. Our Sathgurunathar told Brahmanandar not to stand in front of him and just go away. Brahmanandar started to walk backwards, so as not to show his back disrespectfully towards his guru. As he walked backwards, Sathgurunathar started to follow him till they both reached the famous theertha “Pushkar”. Sathgurunathar waved his hand and signaled Brahmanandar to go into the river and he was totally submerged. Sathgurunathar then left the place leaving Brahmanandar in the river. He went all over the world for hundreds of years and he finally came back to the theertha one winter. When the whole river had turned into glacier except for one point; the place where Brahmanandar was! The heat that dissipated from his meditation had kept that spot from freezing. Sathgurunathar said “Brahmananda! Get up and come out!” Immediately Brahmanandar came out of his Samadhi state and prostrated at the feet of his guru. Sathgurunathar had done all these to let the world know the greatness of Brahmanandar. Then Brahmanandar sang the great song “Aajasaki Mere Sath Gurugar Aaye”, which was the starter to hundreds more which came along the way.
Now coming back to something more recent; yes! September 4th 1994, the day when our Guruji walked into the “Alaknanda” River. He entered the river with his radiant smile and soon partially submerged. Then he suddenly disappeared. People all over the world became devastated hearing about this incident. News reached everyone that our Guruji had gone into “Jala Samadhi”. Everyone seemed to have fallen into a bottomless pit of sorrow and found it very difficult to come out of it. But if one realizes that this sorrow is baseless, one would probably not feel any sorrow at all! It all happens due to the fact that we don’t understand the meaning of Samadhi. We mistake Samadhi for death.
Let us get into the analysis of the word “Samadhi”. Samadhi can be split into “Saman + Adhi” which means to be equal to (Saman) one from the beginning (Adhi), which just means that one is thoroughly in universal vibration with the Lord. As said before, “Family practices do not stop”. Just like Sri Sivarathina Giri Swami, just like Sri Gnanananda Giri Swami and just like Brahmananda; they had all been in the water in Samadhi state for many years before they finally came out. SO WILL OUR GURUJI !
But the question is when? Only Guruji knows. So what can we do? We should increase our intensity of our state of surrender to the lotus feet of Sathgurunathar and Guruji, we should be like the “Gopis” devastated upon the “Separation” of the beloved Krishna . We should keep waiting and thinking that we will get to see Guruji and Gurunathar in their physical forms. We should all follow the advice and practices taught by Guruji. We should all think that all actions are done through the compassion of our Guruji. If we all can be like this, and pray together that Guruji appears, Guruji will come out of his Samadhi and appear! This is a promise!
Jai Shree Radhe Krishna !
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