Hurdles in Sadhana

Many persons aspire for spiritual progress but do not achieve the desired progress because of their halfhearted, lop-sided process of Sadhana. The goal of Sadhana is to violently shake man out of his body-conscious state of slumber, so that he becomes fully awakened to the reality of his true identity as an Immortal Soul. The holistic therapy for any disease involves treatment of the root cause of the malady. Mere palliatives do not serve the purpose. The same principle holds true in case of spiritual Sadhana. No doubt, the conventional rituals of Sadhana like continence, philanthropy, fasting, Jap, anusthan, yajna, etc. are beneficial as initial steps. Nevertheless, they do not constitute the totality of Sadhana. These rituals do enhance purity of mind, positive traits and nobility, but these alone do not lead to Enlightenment, which reveals the illusory and transient nature of the phenomenal world and our free identity as immortal souls - sparks of the Divine. The purpose of this passage is to help and guide a spiritual seeker to awaken to the presence of his indwelling Divinity. A person of awakened awareness of the spirit effortlessly lives a life of nobility, righteousness and loving kindness.

Once this paradigm shift of consciousness is accomplished, the confines of "I" and "MINE" expand infinitely to encompass the whole of the universe. Such a realized soul feel that he has far greater responsibilities to shoulder than mere caring for his narrow physical-self and related persons and things. As one climb higher and higher on this spiritual ascent, one's sense of belonging expands accordingly and finally, looking around as far as one can from the top of a hill, one discovers that he is none with all existence. Earlier, a person had to take care, perhaps, of his children, siblings, a few relatives, a few employees, some possessions, etc., but now these thousands upon thousands of things and people around appear needing his personal care. In other words, as one's field of vision widens on climbing a hill, so does the perspective of self on self-realization. The tiny egocentric, body-confined sense of I-ness vanishes for good.

Let us try to understand this concept through an analogy. Let us consider the air in a balloon as the limited-self. Blowing air in this balloon expands it and it occupies more and more space, till it bursts. The air in the balloon becomes part of the vast expanse of air surrounding the earth. In the same manner, progressive expansion of self identity ultimately leads to the realization that it was inseparably connected with all creation. It was the body-consciousness (the balloon), which was creating the illusion of an isolated, independent existence of one's own. In a nutshell, this is the vision of Self-realization. This is the basic tenet of the super-science of spirituality, which constitutes the core of the various religious faiths and mystic paths all over the world. In nutshell, this is the core of all disciplines of spiritual practices, irrespective of the people, places, or variety of worship.

Once having a glimpse of the true self, the seeker can never return to the confines of the old narrow perspective of self. In common human life in each moment, there is a lurking worry and fear of a possible disaster. Man is in desperate search of a perennial source of happiness, but he is seeking it outside of himself - in possessions, pelf, power and relations. When one dying of thirst in a desert finds an oasis of cool water, would one ever think of returning to the wasteland of scorching sand? ""Yadgatva Ba Buyartate Taddgan Oarnan Nan" proclaims the Divine Teacher in Bhagwadgita. It means, "Having experienced the bliss of Self-Realization who would like to come back for suffering mundane worldly woes?" Having reached the destination, the question of losing direction does not arise. Does one forget the way back to home after homecoming?

Vices like lust, anger, greed, infatuation and cravings for sensory pleasure keep man always entangled in the cobweb of misery. On account of the ever-changing nature of material world, one can never have lasting peace and happiness on this plane. Throughout life man keeps on lamenting for loss, craving for more and more of what he considers pleasant and getting frustrated on denial of his wishes. The attachment to the pleasant and repulsion the unpleasant are two root causes of retrogression, which drag the being to births in sub-human species of animal kingdom. (Laws of science of spirituality state that in course of its progressive evolution, the soul of a being inhabits bodies of successively higher more evolved species of biological kingdom and birth as a human being is the culmination of this evolution. It is further stated that indulgence in aforementioned animal traits sets the clock of progressive evolution backwards). The methods prescribed in spiritual practices in various faiths are meant to rise above the pull of these beastly tendencies. In the Bhagwadgita, human mind is personified as Arjun. In the battle of Mahabharata, which symbolizes the perpetual inner battle between the good and the evil within our own selves, he is exhorted by God-incarnate, Sri Krishna, to fight against the annihilate his own intimate relatives (evil traits) personified as the Kauravas. We will discuss latter that simple exercise for elevating the level of consciousness of man to a super-conscious state where he becomes totally free from degrading traits of worldly life. Self-Realization endows the seeker with celestial virtues of divinity. As mentioned earlier, progressive expansion of the ego-consciousness and the individual being attains at-one-ment with the omnipresent Supreme Being. Some scepters may interpret this path of soul-growth as the way of the recluse or the ascetic, who wants "Nirvana" (deliverance) or who desires to be detached from worldly life for altruistic pursuits. One may argue that this Sadhana is only for those who are interested in the benefits of life beyond death, whereas all efforts of a common man are focused on the pleasures of this world only; that most of the time of man in his daily routine is taken up by such things as business, job, education, entertainment, etc. and he has little or no inclination or time to think of and provide for life beyond death.

It is natural to have such doubts since in today's world, the confused mindset of man rreats well-being of self in this world and in the worlds beyond death as two different pursuits, whereas factually these cannot be compartmentalized. What pertains to this world is also covertly related to the other. These are inseparable like two sides of the same coin. The subject matter of this writing does not permit dealing in detail with this misconception. Suffice it to say that the cultivation of Self-Awareness is the most efficacious method of success in practical life of this world as well. All progress in this world goes hand in hand with the progressive evolution of human consciousness. One, who is endowed with the inner-strength of soul, has the capacity to succeed in all avenues of life.

The simple and natural method of communion with God is in knowing one's true immortal self, appreciating dignity of human life, finding out the specific role of human species in the creation of God, and thereafter starts functioning without any ego-centered motive as the Manager of His estate; whatever part of it has been entrusted to your care. There can be no more Soul-Satisfying art of living than this.

There should be no ambiguity in understanding this plain truth that there are two root causes of success or failure in any human endeavor: One - a correct appraisal of one's capabilities and shortcomings; and two- knowledge about availability of means and resources required to complete the assignment. In spite of being endowed with the best of intellect, one cannot arrive at the right decision in the absence of hard facts about these variables.

Spiritual masters say: Remember! The soul in you is indestructible. You are not a non-entity, but a magnificent creation of God.  Do not feel weak in any respect. Nor beg for anything. You are immensely powerful. There is no limitation to what you can do. The potentials with which you have appeared in this world can undoubtedly overcome all obstacles in your way to success. Your capabilities are more powerful than the obstructions to be overcome. Success and happiness are your birthrights. Wake up! Identify your true self; assess your means and resources and wisely go ahead towards the set goal. You will find that there is nothing that you aspire for is beyond your reach. You are the "Kalpavriksha" and "Kamdhenu" (heavenly tree and cow) of heaven, which grant all wishes. You are success personified. Come forward and take charge of what is your due.

In my view you are not merely a body, nor like any other less evolved species on earth, but are a manifestation of attributes of God. Body and mind are your tools. You are not a slave of your sensory organs. Animal-like habits cannot enslave you. The pollutants of thoughts cannot withstand your inner strength. In essence, a human being is an embodied soul, with the body as an instrument. Understand this distinction clearly and unambiguously. When man regards the "self" as his body, the soul cannot use the body effectively. The distinction enables the soul to make use of the body as an instrument of Self-Growth. This is the task before man. Any task can be successfully accomplished if there is clarity of vision and purpose. This is the Yoga of perfect skill in works (Yogaha Karmasu Kaushalam -Gita). Diligently aspire to be such a Yogi.

The purpose of this writing is to motivate you to make your due contributions to the real well-being of this world and the world beyond, leading you to the supreme goal of Self-Realization. --- May God enlighten your path

Gayatri Upanishad

Brahman Granths are offshoots of Vedas. Each Veda had several Brahman Granths but only a few are now available. With the passage of time most of them have disappeared.

Two Brahmans of Rig-Veda viz. Shankhayan and Etreya are available. Shankhayan is also known as Koupeetki.

Similarly, there are three Brahman granths of Yajur-veda also, ie. Shatpath, Kanva and Tettareeya, eleven Brahman of Sam-Veda viz. Aarsheya, Jaiminiarsheya, Sanhitopnishad, Mantra, Vansh, Samvidhan, Shadvinsha, Devat, Tandya, Jaiminya, Jaiminiya Upanishad Brahman and only one of Atharva-veda which is known as Gopath Brahman. Parse 31 to38 of Gopath Brahman are known as Gayatri Upanishad in which the important secret of Gayatri has been explained in the episode of discussion between Maitereya and Moudgalya. According to its literal meaning Gayatri is a prayer for illumination and uplifting of the intellect. But, in this Upanishad several secrets relating to Brahma-vidya (divine knowledge) and Padarth vidya (material knowledge) have been revealed.

Gayatri Upanishad starts with a narration in which Maitreya, who was a great scholar and delivered discourses on the three Vedas, had ridiculed Moudgalya by saying that he did not teach anything substantial to his disciples he enquired from Maitreya what he knew about the secret of gayatri. Maitreya could not give and reply.

Maitreya had very well understood the intention of Moudglya. When he pondered over the matter deeply he realized that he had not understood that secret of Gayatri by which the Mantra has assumed it's pre-eminence. Unless the fundamental basis was known it was no use knowing exterior symbols. He realized that it was no use delivering discourses on Vedas so long as their origin was not known. He, therefore, resolved that he would first understand the secret behind Gayatri and only then do any other work. He sent away his students and approached Moudgalya with humility and devotion befitting a true seeker and student who approached a master for initiation into sacred knowledge. Contrary to this, in modern times the students are most impertinent and disrespectful and all their education goes waste for want of proper discipline and blessings of the teachers.

Maitreya asked Moudgalya the secret underlying the first part of Gayatri and asked three questions. His first question was, What is Varenya of Savita, which means how that luminous God can be obtained. Secondly, what is the Bharga of that Dev. Thirdly, what is that medium by which God gives inspiration to all or by which the grace of God is attained?

Moudgalya replied (1) Veda and Chand are Varenyam of Savita. (2) Anna (food-grain) is known as Bharga of Dev, and (3) Karma (action) is that dhee element by which God gives inspiration to all, develops all. Let us now ponder over these three questions and their answers, one by one.

1.   Veda meand knowledge and Chand implies experience. In fact, God is realized by the knowledge of self. But the knowledge implied here is not mere surface knowledge. A man may read countless books like a donkey loaded with a heavy weight, he may deliver discourses like a parrot but all this does not add up to true knowledge. Our knowledge of truth should be based on self-experience. A man should have intrinsic faith in truth when once it has been established on the basis of reasoning, logic, proof and example. This faith should be reflected in our day to day conduct. It should first be determined with open-mindedness, truthfulness and impartiality which principles are appropriate, propitious and beneficial for the overall wellbeing. Once it is agreed that virtues like truth benevolence self-restraint, honesty etc. are the highest from every point of view, they should be put into practice. When true knowledge ripens and gets deeply rooted in devotion it leads to self-realization. Knowledge without experience is effete. Experience does not stand on sound footing without knowing the principles. When man's true knowledge culminates into faith, when he gets rid of vanity, deception, malice, hypocrisy, cunningness and conceit and when single-pointed faith and devotion reign supreme in one's psyche, God can be instantly realized. Thus, Savita has been described as combination, coordination, of Veda (knowledge) and Chand (experience). In short God can be realized through knowledge and experience combined together.

2.   Replying to the second question Moudgalya said that Bharga of Dev is Anna. Material resources are the strength of a superior person. Superiority or excellence can be strengthened only when anna (food) or material resources are available. Material resources and wealth constitute a power which, if it goes in the hands of the Asuras (demons) increase devilish tendencies and if it goes in the hands of Devata (godly person) promotes godliness. If power to govern a country lies in the hands of cruel and wicked persons they would spread viciousness. The extent to which Nepal has been ruined due to foreign rule in the past centuries is well-known. If this political power is handled by good, righteous people, the country can make exemplary progress, as has been done in countries like Russia, America etc. In his book on Geeta, Yogi Aurobindo has written that "peace and happiness will prevail in the world if Lakshyami (material prosperity) is possessed by virtuous persons. The world is bound to suffer calamity if Lakshyami goes in the hands of demons. "God-like persons need material resources, wealth, not for sensual enjoyment, greed, hoarding, vanity or doing injustice to other, but for defending and promoting godliness, so that the people may be able to make themselves strong, active and resourceful. Anna (food) or material resources have been regarded as the symbol of Lakshyami. Thus, Moudgalya replied that Bharga of Dev is Anna, the worldly s trength of good persons lies in material resources. Without material resources they will remain weak in the physical field.

3.   The third reply of Moudgalya is that action (Karma) alone is dhee element by which God inspires and uplifts all. This is absolutely true that everyone is uplifted and evolved through God's grace. God inspires everybody towards higher levels of evolution, towards progress. It should, however, be understood that inspiration is 'dhee'. Dhee means that intellect which gives inspiration and incentive to do God like deeds. A person who is favored by the grace of God is endowed with wisdom accordingly. Whether a person enjoys blessings of 'dhee' or not can be judged by examining whether he is industrious and diligent and does his work enthusiastically. A person endowed with such a nature should be considered to have been blessed with dhee element by God.

Several persons are habitually indolent, dull and apathetic. They do work half-heartedly without any enthusiasm. A little exertion makes them tired. Such person's would be considered to be devoid of dhee element. Obviously, they are doomed to remain unlucky in the absence of enlightened intellect which inspires men to utilize their energies in worthwhile pursuits.

There can be no two opinions that Moudgalya's aforesaid teaching is true. Those who blame one's luck and think that what is destined cannot be averted may feel satisfied by accusing others for their misfortunes but the fact is that they have been deprived of God's grace through his own indolence. This grace of God is available to all and is within everybody's reach. By adopting dhee, which also means purposeful industriousness, everybody can become entitled to get divine grace and achieve progress. God never deprives anyone of His grace. It is man himself who foolishly turns his face against it.

The last question which Maitreya asked was, what is Savita, what is Savitri? Savita has been regarded as devta (God) of Gayatri. Every Mantra has its own devta which denoted as to what is the subject of that Mantra. As Savita is devta of Gayatri it is apparent that the prime devta of this Mantra. It is for this reason that Gayatri is also known as Savitri.

Moudgalya replied that Savita and Savitri are inseparable. They are, in fact, one. They combine and form a pair. One is the Transcendent Source and the other its Creative Energy. Both complement each other.

The importance of Shakti Marg lies in the tapping of this power. Every atom is instinct with infinite power. The explosion of one atom may result in the destruction of the whole cosmos. But this happens when that supreme energy is properly released. The transcendental, luminous Almighty God is known as Savita and its Shakti (power) is known as Savitri.  Savitri is not different from Savita but complements it. They constitute one integrated pair. God is incomprehensible, unknowable, formless and transcendent. It is only through its creative energy; Savitri that inkling can be had of this absolute Divine.

This is a matter which can be understood only by deep and serious reflection. It is for this reason that the authors of Upanishad have tried to fathom this mystery by giving various examples, to make it easily intelligible to the people.

They say that mind is Savita, speech is Savitri. Where there is mind, there is speech and where there is speech there is mind. In the same way fire and earth, air and space, sun and moon and stars, electricity and lightening, Pran (vital energy) and Anna (food), Veda and Chand, Yagya and dakshina, day and night, hot and cold, fire and water (varoon) have been stated to be Savita and Savitri constituting one pair each. These are only a few examples. By giving these examples, the authors of Upanishad have sought to suggest that supreme Divinity cannot manifest by itself alone, so long as it remains in its Absolute Existence. It manifests only when there is a stirring of its Shakti (manifesting energy). Thus, absolute Savita manifests to man only through invocation of Savitri.

Lakshyami-Narayan, Sita-Rama, Radha-Krishna, Uma-Shankar, Savita-Savitri, nature and God, all these pairs indicate that each one of them complements the other and is the cause for the manifestation of the other. Jeev (soul) also, which is imperceptible, manifests itself on account of Maya (power of God). Human development also cannot be one-sided. Integrated human development and evolution is possible by awakening the dormant Divine Energy within.

Energy and the source of Energy both are inter-related. Just as Savita can be experienced only through the grace of Savitri, we should also awaken in ourselves, through collective Sadhana, all these marvelous energies of the Divine Mother. Our Sadhana has to be a collective effort of kindred souls.

Maitreya told Moudgalya that he had become his disciple; he had acquired real knowledge and secret of inter-relation between power and its source. He further told that whosoever will come to know about the secret of this knowledge will not be subject to mortality. Such a person will regard power as an inseparable part of his soul, he will never misuse it. He must utilize it for the greatest goal. 

Gayatri - The Deity of Bright Prosperity

Apart from harvesting virtuous potentials, inner peace and content and thus enlightening the personal life, Gayatri Sadhana enables prosperous growth of the devotee's social life too. The refinement of body and mind (educed by Gayatri) also adorns the external fronts of life with several boons. Because of his increased awareness and wisdom and prudent self-confidence, the Sadhak finds the same circumstances, the same obstacles as supporting and easily resolvable, which were adverse and challenging earlier.

Changing the circumstances of life at will may not be feasible for every one every time. However, changing one's approach and attitude to face the circumstances positively - is a natural sign of farsighted wisdom, Clash of one's imaginations, expectations and the facts of life is the major cause of distress and struggle in varied forms. Wise men always accept the reality with grace and avoid unnecessary troubles, tussles and tensions as far as possible. This prudence is aroused in the Sadhak of Gayatri and makes the movement of his life straight and smooth.

Happiness and delight are not generated by external means or materialistic possessions. These are indeed the relative reflections of one's own mental status and attitude. The mind, which was not satisfied even by royal accessories, luxuries and power and was thirsty for more and more, the same mind may sometime be inspired by a saintly preaching or inner voice to renounce every thing and begin to feel terrific bless and comfort in sleeping on the earth in a forest, eating raw fruits and roots. This drastic change is simply a consequent of different emotional conditioning and attitude that hold the key to all sorrow and joys.

The Triveni of Gayatri also purifies the trigunas - the three eternal tendencies immanent in Nature. It exalts the Satoguna and thereby induces spiritual illumination. It excels the force of Rajoguna, which awakens the hidden potentials and brightens prosperous progress of life in the physical domains too. Elevated optimism, zeal, sagacity, presence of mind, efficient decision making, beatified voice, graceful personality and many other familiar and rare faculties are evidential manifestation of this effect. The refined Tamoguna educes valor, fearlessness, endurance, chastity and courage to fight against injustice and exploitation, etc and enables the Sadhak march on the altruist path of social welfare.

With gradual progress of his dedicated Sadhana, the devotee of Gayatri subliminally undergoes a marvelous transmutation that consistently fosters the glory and growth of his prosperous and illumined life. Gayatri does not encoder golden coins or nectar; neither does it bestow boons in a magical way. But, it certainly arouses and inspires such physical, mental and spiritual potentials and talents so that under no circumstances a devotee of Gayatri faces any scarcity, fear or suffering. It is indeed a unique source of righteous progress and everlasting glory and prosperity.

Gayatri is Omnipotent Savior

Destiny does bring testing moments in one form or the other sometimes in everybody's life. The stormy winds of the Prarabdha of the sinful Karmas often appear to blow the eddy currents of crisis and ill omen. The attacks of diseases, disputes, monetary losses, threats, tragedies etc seem to compete with each other in augmenting the severity of the bad times. It is said that hardship does not come alone. It brings its children and friends along. Entrapped in the web of misfortunes from all directions, most of us would feel helpless, frightened, depressed and almost dead. Fear, anxiety and agony often suppress our courage and further multiply the strokes of the crisis.

The case of a true devotee of Gayatri is quite different. Destiny appears to favor him in all circumstances. Testing times seem to further sharpen his endurance, forbearance, courage, wisdom and faith in God. He is protected by these virtues that are firmly sown in him by the grace of Gayatri. The inspirations and inner strength blessed by the divine mother Gayatri are like savior boats that enable the Sadhak cross the cyclonic currents of adversities and crisis of all kinds.

Gayatri Sadhana bestows sublime protection, which often appears astonishing. Many a times the devotee is miraculously saved and emancipated from dreaded dangers and crisis. The divine powers aroused in his inner self by Gayatri Sadhana provide angelic support to the devotee. It is experienced that those who control and purify their mind and intellect by Sadhana, who eliminate their jealousy, ego, fury and all beastly tendencies, and cultivate altruist and generous sentiments are always blessed and guarded by thy savior Gayatri Shakti.

Gayatri Prayer

ü  Oh, mother, Gayatri! You are manifested in the  Eternal sound of Om. You are Tripada (hymn comprising of three steps: Tatsaviturvenyam, bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yonah prachodyat;  vedtriyi (source of three Vedas); revered by three gods - Brahma, Vishni, Mahesh; Creator anf protector of the three worlds (the heavens, earth and nether regions); knower of all the three times (past, present and future); and the ordainer of all the opportunities

ü  You possess all the three gunas (rraits): Satwa, Rajas, and Tamas. You are bestower of the three types of boons: Natural (materialistic), supernatural and spiritual. It is only you who provides salvation. You always see your devotees with compassionate eyes.

ü  You are Goddess of knowledge. You are an embodiment of compassion. In spite of being omnipresent you are holding the entire world in your heart. You are the invincible ultimate authority and more difficult to realize as compared to the realizable Supreme Spirit. You are the pupil of the eye of Lord Shankar, who is the Savior of this world

ü  You are the soul of this world and also a giver of supreme bliss. You are the shelter of the entire world and the ultimate being for its (world's) birth and growth. You are the controller of all the superhuman qualities and powers and also the giver of the same. I humbly salute you.

ü  You are the creator of all the materialistic resources and pleasures. You cannot be described by the grammatical components of Sanskrit. You cannot also be known by (studying) Vedas and Purans or their derivatives. You can only be realized by righteous wisdom attained through dhyan-dharma (meditation), etc,

ü  In spite of being Eternal and knowable by all, you are unattainable (unknowable). You transcend the three Lords Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. You are omnipotent and the energy of the entire world. It is not possible to perceive you by physical senses.

ü  An unfortunate person abandoned by you is deprived of power and prosperity. Even if such a person (in materialistic sense) is higher than Himalayas, he is not respected even by the common people.

ü  Oh, Mother Gayatri! Your divine radiance is present everywhere; in Lords Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, Sun and Moon, movable - unmovable, visible-invisible, subtler than subtle and greater than great.

ü  Oh mother! I pray that my intellect should hold your lotus feet in my mind (that is , my mind should always remain engrossed in your divine effulgence). Oh Goddess! I am not desirous of any boon other than this.

ü  Naturally, you are always kind to the needy and humble persons. Therefore, I have come to seek your shelter. Kindly accept my offering of love and affection.

Subtle Aspects of Yagya

The extremely subtle effects are by far the more important. Like humans, matter too, has three bodies -- physical, subtle and causal. The body which eats, sleeps, walks, acts; which consists blood, flesh etc. is visible man's physical body. Subtle body is that which thinks, considers and controls the physical body. Causal or astral body is that in which faith, convictions, aspirations etc. are deeply rooted. The subtle body is much more powerful as compared to the physical body. The casual body is several times more powerful than the subtle body.

The casual energy underlying all the Havishya used in Yagya is stimulated by the rituals prescribed for the Yagya performance. Only then alone it is possible to affect desired changes in the mind and consciousness of the participants. It this is not done, the effect of Yagya will be limited to the physical - chemical effects fo vaporization of specific substances. No doubt, several benefits can be derived by these effects too; the fumes of Yagya remove foul smell and spread soothing fragrance. It can also help in controlling virus infections and thereby promoting physical health. This is, however, an insignificant achievement, as compared to the vast potential of Yagya.

Importance of Yagya lies in the subtle power of the substances which are offered in the sacrificial fire. The selection of a particular wood or Havan Samagri depends on the purpose for which Yagya is performed.

In order to stimulate the causal energy of the offering, help of the science of Mantras is taken. The conductor of Yagya takes all precautions to ensure that the Mantras are uttered, pronounced and appropriated correctly in the pitch voice, rhythm and tone duly prescribed. Strict discipline is required to be maintained, and there should be no deviation. Shabda (the eternal and cosmic sound) is termed as Brahm. Ordinarily, it is used for exchanging of thoughts but at subtler and higher levels in Mantra, Shabda plays the role of getting transformed into potential energy.

The entire basis of the Mantra Shastra stands on the footing that the selection, interlocking and appropriation of words in a Mantra exist in such a way that it becomes possible to get miraculous advantage by making the causal energy of Shabda specifically enhanced and made more powerful.

All the pots and even water used in the Yagya are purified by specific Mantras before use. The fire-wood (Samidhas) are washed, dried and use dafter they are duly sanctified by Mantras. The process of Vedi Pujan and Yagyashala Pujan are resorted to make the Havan Kunda live….. with awaken causal energy. This as a whole is the scientific process of mass medication which strengthens the spiritual basis of the Yagya process.

It is generally experienced that Yagya (Agnihotra) --- atmosphere is very compatible and alluring for attaining spiritual uplift. Dr. Motohama of Tokyo, Japan has studied the effects of Agnihotra, with his instrument for measuring electric fields surrounding the body. He has reported that after performing an Agnihotra, the Anahata Chakra (cardiac plexus) exhibits similar condition that exists after psychic and spiritual healings.

The Genesis of Divine Culture

Once Mahatma Gandhi was invited to address the academia at the Jamia Millia University. He spoke for about half an hour but mostly on the Gayatri Mantra. This was annoying to the Islamic members of the management, as they considered it as a mantra of the Hindus. They expressed their resentment after the function was over. Gandhiji cleared their doubt saying that this is not a mantra of a Hindu priest; neither does it belong to any particular cult or religion. It is universal; it is the mantra of all human beings. It is a mantra of pure intellect, foresightedness, a source of divine illumination of the inner self. It is a mantra of awakening humanity in people's heart.

I fully agree with what Mahatma Gandhi said about the Gayatri Mantra. I feel that I have found our lost golden heritage in this mantra, found the invaluable gem that was lost in the vicissitudes of time. Some old snakes are known to have a special kind of gem (mani) in the crest of their hoods. They are said to possess powers, which vanish if this gem is lost. Some elephants are said to have pearls (gajamukta) in their heads. If this pearl is lost, the elephant goes mad. I do not know how far this information is correct. But I can talk about the Nepalese Culture, which was endowed with supreme powers of the "Kamadhenu". We have neglected and forgotten it, deformed it, and thus doomed our prestige and thrown away the crown of being the preeminent guide to the world and have also soiled our prestige. It is high time we awaken and do something to retrieve our lost treasure of divine culture and wisdom. I have tried my level best to revive our ancient, glorious culture that was enlightened by the Gayatri mantra.

Gayatri Mantra is a philosophy. It is the science of spiritual evolution. It is the source of elevated thinking. It is the seed mantra of social uplifting, global peace. It is worshipped as "vishwamata" (mother of the world). If we adopt it (its philosophy) in our thoughts and deeds, the world would once again prosper and shine with the glory of Vedic times. Gayatri is the mantra of divine knowledge. Its sadhana can purify and transform an ordinary character into a revered one. It is 'worshipped' as "Devamata (mother of Gods). I keep explaining to you’re the philosophy of Gayatri. You will live a fulfilling life, a memorable one if you could grasp and follow it through heart.

Now let me tell you something about the science of Gayatri. Are you aware that you are full of enormous powers, extrasensory capabilities? But these remain unexpressed and dormant. The vibrations generated by devout Sadhana of Gayatri Mantre, stir and gradually activate the nuclei of power hidden in your subtle and physical body. Awakening these endows you with supernatural powers. Gayatri Mantra also enlightens your intellect and inspires divine virtues in your inner self. Thus it can transmute an ordinary individual self into a divine self. This is how a divine incarnation, angelic being is 'born' in human form. Lord Ram and Lord Krishna were born in human forms. Like other humans they also left the physical sheath one day. But they were divine incarnations. They were Gods in human form; their divine powers and virtues were expressed as per the need of the era and purpose of their arrival on the earth. We are not angelic beings but that possibility is certainly sown in our deeper self.

The Role of Gayatri Yagya in Transformation of this Era

The relationship between Gayatri and Yagya (chanting of prayers with oblations into holy-fire) is mutual. Scriptures have called Gayatri as the mother of religion and Yagya as the father. Both are considered as complementary to each other and inseparable. Only the co-ordination of good knowledge and good deeds raises the level of a person and society. Keeping this truth in mind, Gayatri, the Goddess of good knowledge and Yagya, the symbol of good deeds are considered as two wheels of the chariot of Def- Sanskrit (divine culture).

There are three meanings of the word Yagya (1) Generosity of charity ( 2) coming together and organization (3) worship of deities, selecting and supporting excellence. Wherever these three good activities are adopted, greatness and gentlemanliness will come up and problems will be solved in no time. All the necessary axioms exist in the form of the philosophy of Yagya for the establishment of the tradition of Yagya - worship. (As in ancient times) these days also one can experience how the process of progressiveness on the basis of religious traditions can go to the heart and be successful. And it is being experienced also.

The initiative of establishing the dynamic revolution of the era in the form of the holy fire of the Yagya is such that with its help people's sentiments can be roused for removal of undesirability and crudeness and the revival of culture and courtesy.

Yagya has its own science. It has such effect (because of the total interaction of its power, its special origin from Rigveda, the mysterious procedures and collective good efforts) that it causes useful movements in the subtle astral planes. As a result of these divine vibrations the eradication of sickness, mental perversions and bad attitudes becomes possible.

Inseparably linked with Gayatri - Yagya is the process of 'Dev-Dakshina' (offering to the Gods) which means the pledge taken in presence of the holy-fire for discarding bad activities and adopting good activities. In the Yagya arranged by the Yug Nirman Yojana, those sitting around the holy-fire and offering oblations have to offer Dev-Dakshina and fill a printed form called Sankalpa-Pattra (the form of pledge). This offering is not in the form of money but in the form of Atma-Parishkar (self-purification) which means discarding at least one personal bad habit and special efforts to enhance a good activity. Bad activity results from personal immorality, prevalent superstitions and wrong social practices. The removal of undesirability under each of the above and adopting what is proper - that itself is the purpose of the Dev-Dakshina campaign. It can also be called the basis of support of creation of a new era and the fundamental purpose of the manifestation of Yug-Shakti (the power of this era, i.e. Gayatri). The one and only purpose of an incarnation's manifestation has been the removal of adharma (irreligiousness and immorality) and establishing Dharma (religiousness and morality). Only this thinking and action is present in the Gayatri from beginning to end. The Dev-Dakshina part of the Yagya is clearly the fulfillment of that aim.

Vital Role of Gayatri Sakti in Human Life

There is no way of glorious success in human life without Sadbuddhi. The support of Gayatri in this form is inevitable for all aspirants of progress and blissful prosperity. There is no path to spiritual evolution, realization of God, or ultimate salvation that does not emanate from the spiritual element of Gayatri Sakti. The Sadhaks or seekers of God should also note that thee is infinity, beyond all perceptions and thoughts. Thou is omnipresent and loves all without any discrimination. No one could have direct reach to thy realization. The subliminal shield of wide separation between the individual self and thy-self could be pierced only by the spiritual force of the enlightened soul. The gamut of the science of spirituality, devotional practices and ascetic endeavors are devised for the sole purpose of arousing this force. Absolute evolution of the Satoguna in the individual-self alone can revoke the hidden spiritual force of the soul and enable its linkage with its divine origin and thy realization. Gayatri Sakti, being the genesis and eternal power of Satoguna is therefore revered as the cosmic impulse of divine conjugation between the soul and the God.

Gayatri Sadhana is the ideal medium for reaching thy realms. Indeed the ultimate realization is attainable only in the sublime core of Gaya tri Sakti. Before entering it, it is only the sentient perception; and beyond it there remains nothing - the subtle senses of the subtle and the astral bodies too get concealed in the absolute void.

Thy devotion and thou realization also attained by the Sadhana, Upasana of Adi Sakti Gayatri and its manifestations in Parvati,-Shiva, Lakshmi-Narayana, Rhadhe-Krishna or Sita-Rama. The devotion of Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kali, Mahamaya, Savitri, Pravati, Sita or Radha is also the Upasana of Gayatri only.

Lord Krishna identifies thyself in the holy Bhagwat Gita as - "Gayatri Chandamaham" (I am immanent in the Gayatri Mantra). Gayatri Mantra is the universal Mantra of the Upasana of God. People might argue otherwise because of their ignorance and prejudices against a particular 'name' (manifestation) of thee, but every spiritually enlightened Sadhak, true devotee of divinity experiences and knows that there is no path isolated (insulated) from the sublime domains of Gayatri that could lead to spiritual illumination, divine attainments and realization of the Brahma.

Worshiping the Motherhood by Gayatri Upasana

Gayatri Upasana is the Upasana of the Viswa-Mata, Deva-Mata, Veda-Mata; it is the devotion of the eternal mother. The deity Gayatri is worshiped in the idol of a Goddess -the divine mother. Mother's love for the child is the most sacred, pure and supreme expression of love. Love experienced in other relationships, howsoever intimate or closed might be is not totally devoid of the influence of selfish attachments and expectations. But mother's love is truly selfless and free from all constraints and perturbations.

Fight from the stage of conceiving a child to raising and training him, she bears a lot and gives what all she has of the welfare of the child; she continuous to bless the child with abundant care and love. Her warm love demands to returns, has not expectations. The saying that "sons could be bad and ungrateful but the mother is never short in her love." Elucidates the limitless grandeur of motherhood. Worshipping God in a mother-form is a salute to the divine nature of motherhood. It also has great psychological benefits. Devotion develops an emotional relationship between the devotee and the deity. Needless to say, the intensity of this intimacy is most deep and natural when the devotee regards the deity as divine mother. The latter also responds accordingly and bestows motherly love upon its child - the devotee. As a child feels most secure and happy in the lap of his mother, the devotee also experiences the same while worshiping the omnipotent divine mother. The immediate psychological impact of this feeling induces soundness in his devotion and liberated the devotee from all tensions, doubts and illusions. When the Sadhak takes shelter in the lap of the Almighty Mother Gayatri and devotes himself, thou too embraces him with equal warmth and endowers the nectar of divine motherly love.

Womanhood is worshipable by men in all its expressions. What a woman gives him as a wife, sister, and mother at least deserves his acknowledgement in terms of amity, affection and respect in the respective relations. The science of psychology reveals that man would have been a cruel, harsh, desperate creature living in the primitive state (of civilization), had he not been fostered by the peerless love and aid of woman. The dry and thirsty land is delighted by the cool lashing of rains and expresses its joy by sprouting fresh greenery. The serene love and sympathy enshowered by woman similarly nurtures and helps excel the potentials of the man. However, the poison of uncontrolled lust, erogeneity and carnal desires often spoils the nectar-like effect that could be generated by healthy cooperation in a couple. The familial and social relations between men and women would have been far more beneficial for mutual welfare and progress had the purity of thoughts and affectionate emotions been insulated from the insidious sensuous passions. The toxic of licentious attitude and eroticism converts the nectar-fruit (of fulfilling relationship) into a deadly poisonous seed.

Gayatri Sadhana is an excellent spiritual remedy to naturally pacify the untoward passions and mental perversions and to purify the emotional fields. Worshiping Mother Gayatri as Vishwo-Mata - the genesis of motherhood the symbol of pristine womanhood gradually invokes sacred feelings and intrinsic respect for womanhood. The Sadhak's sincere attempts of continence over the sense organs, eliminating mental ailments - especially those driven by concupiscence, and his strive for mental concentration over constructive thoughts succeed effectively with the progress of this spiritual-conditioning. Beastly instincts cannot survive in the heart of a true devotee of motherhood. The Upasana of Gayatri as Viswa- Mata is the supreme experiment to educe this spiritual elevation.

Piercing of Kundalini (Chakra)

It is a great science to pierce through the Chakras, reach up to the Kundalini at its base, awaken it and utilize its energies for spiritual development. Kunadalini Yoga is far more hazardous than nuclear science. One must undertake it only under the guidance of an adept and not by reading tests on the subject.

Piercing of chakras is done through meditation. Everybody knows that human brain is like an energy-house and the mind is its main power current. Ordinarily movements of the mind are flickering and unsteady. On account of this turmoil, there cannot be concentration of energy on one point, so nothing worthwhile can be accomplished so long as the mind remains disturbed. In the absence of such concentration, precious moments of life are wasted. When the rays of the sun are concentrated through a magnifying glass, fire is produced. In the same way, with the help of accumulated energy of concentration, a Sadhak can pierce through the six chakras. Meditation is the super-science of the mind by which energy scattered in multifarious channels can be collected and conserved, thus, producing an exceedingly powerful beam of light.

 A different text has prescribed different ways of piercing of Shat Chakras. There are some systems, which are traditionally in vogue, in which the spiritual master (Guru) imparts specialized training to his disciple. Success can be achieved by all these methods provided this Sadhana is performed with utmost faith, devotion and confidence under the guidance of a competent guide. The easiest Sadhana by which these Chakras can be pierced through and a wakened without any hazards is described below.

A Sadhak should sit in Padmasan (lotus) posture in the morning with purified body and quiet mind. After doing Brahma-Sandhya (achman, shikhabandhan, pranayam, aghmarshan and nyas), Jap of Gayatri Mantra should be performed hundred and eight times. Thereafter, Vedmata Gayatri should be meditated upon in the form of light in trikuti. (If a straight line is drawn from one ear to another and another line is drawn from the middle of eye-brows to the middle of brain the meeting point is known as trikuti). Mind should be settled in the light of trikuti in a way just as a blacksmith puts a piece of iron in the furnace, takes it out when it becomes red hot, hammers it and prepares the desired object. On being settled for some-time in the light of Gayatri in trikuti, the mind becomes illuminated. Then it should be brought in agya-chakra. Emanating from the spinal cord, Brahmanadi goes through trikuti to Sahasrar. The illuminated mind is made to enter into the hollow channel of Brahmanadi and taken to agya-chakra. When the mind is settled there it experiences all the characteristics of the chakra as already described. Mind of the Sadhak experiences the petals, their letters, elements, seeds, divine power, instrument, lok, mount, characteristic and color of that chakra. In the beginning such experiences are hazy and dim. Slowly some characteristics of the chakra are visualized clearly, some dimly and some in a deformed manner. By and by they become more and more clear. sometimes there are differences in the characteristics according to the internal shape of chakras.

By concentrated performing Sadhana of each chakra for a month carefully, it is stimulated. In meditation its characteristics become clearer and in matrikas as well as in organs of senses and organ of action there are sudden and strange vibrations and stimulation and an itching sensation. These are symptoms of awakening of the chakra. When the form of a chakra starts becoming clear the Sadhak should go ahead and try to penetrate another chakra below the former one according to the aforesaid procedure. It takes about a month's time to awaken each chakra. When the Sadhana becomes ripe the gate leading from one chakra to another opens. However, the Sadhak does not find the gate and remains entangled in a labyrinth so long as there is immaturity in his Sadhana.

Gayatri Mantra is the Divine Culture

Every human being can refine his character, thoughts, talents and actions and transform himself into a great personality, become a world leader like George Washington, an intrepid warrior like Napoleon, a sage like Vivekananda and reach still higher realms of self-evolution. God has bestowed divine potentials in everybody, one only needs to realize, recognize and raise these by spiritual enlightenment. Gayatri sadhana can make it possible in this very life. I have researched and experimented myself on the philosophy and science of this mantra and found that all that is stated in the scriptures about its supreme spiritual force and cosmic radiance and divine power of evolution of consciousness is absolutely true. This is why I can tell you so confidently about it. I want you all, the whole world, to benefit by the divine grace of Gayatri. It will accelerate both your worldly progress as well as spiritual ascent. It is important for us. We need neither renounce the worldly life nor should we neglect our spiritual growth and wellbeing. The support of Gayatri Mantra guides our intellect and orients our capabilities for righteous progress on both the fronts.

I have been explaining and guiding you in different kinds of upasana-sadhana of Gayatri Mantra. Regular sessions for practice in this spiritually vibrant ambience of Shantikunj are also run here throughout the year. Everybody is welcome here. Now, let me tell you something about the siddhis (supramental achievements) bestowed by Gayatri. When and what does the Mother Gayatri bestow upon us?

Well, a mother loves every child but she gives only small toys and toffees and things like that to the tiny kids. She does not give precious gift or valuables to them unless they mature and she is convinced that they can take proper care of those things. What if a five-year old Ramesh asks his mother to give him the key of the lockers! Will she give it to him? No, instead, she would hide it carefully so that the kid won't see it. Yes, but once Ramesh is grown up and starts sharing the responsibilities of the household and is wise and capable enough to transact his duties, the mother would one day herself hand over the keys to him and his wife. When Ramesh was a child he would cry for sweet and expensive toys, and break them in no time. As a teenager he was wayward and would like to imitate whatever good or bad his friends were doing. Show-off, mischief making, quarreling were his interests then, but now things are different. He has matured not only in age but also in wisdom. Earlier he would compel his parents to purchase milk-care of 20 Rupees and eat half and throw away the remaining. But now he himself earns. He knows the value of hard earned money. He would even drink tea without milk if there is some scarcity at him, as he understands that the little children and the elderly need it more. He earns respect in the society because of his good nature and dutiful conduct. What if he were a drunkard, a hoodlum, or a lethargic chap who would do nothing except watching cinema and day dreaming? Then? Even his near and dear ones would not have believed him. No one would like to lend money or extend support to him. One earns his status in worldly life in the society as per his qualities and deeds.

Spiritual attainments are more precious than anything else in this universe. They can't be bestowed upon just anyone. Gods bless only the deserving devotees. What you achieve depends upon your purity, sincerity, and devotion in the sadhana. Siddhis will gradually emerge from within as you progress in the sadhana. A guru (spiritual master) helps you march along the path of spirituality only if you deserve it and only if you are dedicated towards this noble cause. He certainly guides you on how to become a deserving disciple and also initiates you in the sadhana and commences the journey on the path of knowledge. But your success will depend upon your own endeavors. He shows the path but it is you who has to step ahead. There is nothing like a magic wand in spiritual practices, as many of you might think. You may wish that the guru, or a great yogi, will put his hand on your head and you will attain some siddhis. But this is all your delusion.

Importance of Yagya in Gayatri Sadhana

Gayatri and Yagya constitute a pair. Gayatri has been called righteous wisdom and Yagya as righteous action. Coordination of both solves all problems. Yagya may be performed as and when it is convenient. It can be done by chanting Mantra and offering ghee and sugar into the fire. If it is sought to be made still briefer, the purpose of symbolic ritual of Agnihotra can also be fulfilled if a ghrit lamp is lighted, incense-stick is burnt and Gayatri Mantra chanted. If even this little work cannot be performed daily, it should be on any convenient day at least once in a month. Those who are not acquainted with the procedure and expert persons capable of performing the ritual as well as necessary materials is not available, can write solves all problems. Yagya may be performed as and when it is convenient. It can be done by chanting Mantra and offering ghee and sugar into the fire. If it is sought to be made still briefer, the purpose of symbolic ritual of Agnihotra can also be fulfilled if a ghrit lamp is lighted, incense-stick is burnt and Gayatri Mantra chanted. If even this little work cannot be performed daily, it should be done on any convenient day at least once in a month. Those who are not acquainted with the procedure and expert persons capable of performing the rituals as well as necessary materials are not available can write to Shantikunj for performance of the Yagya. Yagya is performed daily in the morning at Shantikunj for two hours in a Yagyashala.

Yagyas at a large scale are required to be performed to purify the subtle environment and destroy pollution permeating the atmosphere. It infuses religious favor and enthusiasm in the participants and they also get an opportunity to take a vow to give up one vice by way of dev-dakshina and adopt one virtue or righteous tendency. In this way big Yagyas help in inculcating ethical values.

The meaning of the word Yagya is to do sacrifice, charity and worship. Its practical message is that one ought not to spend his entire earnings on himself and his family but should also distribute a part of it for the welfare of others. It also implies that divinity and gentlemanliness should be respected and people should live together in mutual cooperation and loving kindness.

Prosperity and spirituality

Who among us does not want to have a prosperous life? Prosperity (samriddhi) has been categorizes as a divine grace, a noble resource (vibhuti) in the Vedic literature. Prosperity, as the etymology and the literal meaning of the Sanskrit word ''samraddhi" in a complete sense implies, good health, wealth and cheerful progress. Of these "wealth" seems to be the most attractive and powerful term in today's world. However, because of its materialistic connotation and worldly nature, it is often a debatable issue in the context of spirituality.

Many people regard wealth as an anti-thesis to spirituality. Religious preaching and lives of saints also espouse austerity and renunciation. But in spite of their faith and respect for such teachings, most people would find it hard to even think of living without

'Substantial' worldly resources! More so in today's world, when smooth discharge of primary duties like good education of children/youngsters in the family, or adequate healthcare of elderly parents, etc, itself demands sizable sums! What to do then? Sometimes or the other this puzzle must be churning the minds of all those who think.

Up till the past few decades the scenario continued to be overshadowed by materialistic attitude that mushroomed with massive industrial growth and urbanized civilization. Majority would not have bothered to care for the role of spirituality in human life. However the rising trends of disharmony in the families, social conflicts, psychosomatic problems, general feeling of insecurity, etc, have now made people realize that some links of life have got missed somewhere in a single track pursuit of money, name, fame and lavish possessions. More and more people are now getting interested in knowing and practicing spiritual principles in their quest for stress-free modes of work and fulfillment. It is therefore in the fitness of things to look at affluence and prosperity with a perspective of spirituality.

The Vedic Nepalese Culture attributes wealth (artha) as one of the four vital accomplishments (Dharma, arth, kama and Moksa) of human life. Dharma, Artha and Kama are the foundational pillars of human life aimed at ultimate enlightenment and transcendental ascent - Moksa. Dharma refers to righteous conduct and performance of altruistic duties. Arha (wealth) is the source of attainment of worldly resources and prosperous progress. Karma means creative zeal for pleasure and fulfillment of desires.

A rishi (Vedic sage) says - vidya dadati vinayam, vinayat yati patriatam, patratat dhanah apnoti, Dhanat Dharmah, Tato Sukham - implying, (apart from its other benefits) knowledge endows one with humanity; this adds to one's qualities which enable one earn dhana (wealth); wealth is used to carry out righteous duties to (eventually) attain unalloyed joy. Indeed, total renunciation of wealth or sacrificing material resources is not possible in today's world even for the seekers of spiritual elevation. Even the bare minimum necessities of sustaining a normal life would require some resources in some form. Those having responsibilities towards the family need much more. Escaping from duties is a wrong and anti-spiritual act. Without any money or worldly supports one would neither be able to bear the worldly responsibilities nor discharge the religious duties.

Ancient scriptures enunciate multiple facets of this issue, which are reinvestigated and guided by some noted thinkers of the present time.

The Revolution of Consciousness

In our ordinary state of ignorance, living only on the lower planes of existence, we identify ourselves with our bodies and lower minds. We feel ourselves to be different and separate from the world and from our fellow human beings; and we erect social barriers to demarcate our sense of psychic separation- walls of creed or caste, sex, race or nationality. We draw narrow circles around ourselves and those whose bodies and lower minds (philosophies, beliefs and prejudices) are similar to ours; and then we say to others, "Get out! You do not belong to our circle!" … "You are a foreigner!" …. "You do not belong to my church (temple, mosque)." …. This false sense of identification with our lower selves has created endless conflicts in the history of the earth.

But, in fact, only our physical bodies and our conscious and subconscious minds are different and separate from one another; on the level of super-conscious mind and the infinite self, all are One.

Those who have elevated their minds beyond the lower layers of their existence transcend all psychic and social barriers and attain universal vision. Realizing that all minds are part of that Universal Mind, waves in that ocean of Infinite Supreme and they feel an unbroken stream of love pouring out of them, flowing to all alike. They have embraced the universe as their own.

A poet once wrote, "He drew a circle and shut me out ….. But love and I drew a greater circle and took him in." The love-circle of such elevated souls is infinite - its center is everywhere and its circumference nowhere.

Only those with such an all-expanded, universal vision can bring about true unity and harmony on earth, for their all-embracing love is the solvent which dissolves all differences.

Today, there is a dire need of such love. There is too much hostility and fear, contempt and domination in the world, and not enough warm affection, respect and trust. This is due to the false and narrow ideologies which are constricting the psychic spheres of human beings - materialistic philosophies which confine us to the lower levels of self. The present human society, with its heavy emphasis on material and economic success and its total neglect of psychic and spiritual development. Materialistic economic theories such as capitalism and communism, recognizing only the existence of lower, material needs, have propagated false values; and the frantic scrambling to satiate the endless desires of the lower mind has bred frustration and greed, exploitation and strife.

Today a new, healthy human society must be created which not only fulfills physical needs byt fosters psychic and spiritual elevation as well, guided by those with universal vision, whose every thought is for the good of all. The world desperately needs their soothing touch of love.

There must be a comprehensive ideology which embraces all levels of human existence and which includes a practical psychic process to elevate us to the highest levels of lour being and realize our oneness. Then alone, can we shatter all the barriers which have turned us against each other in hate.

The leaders of such a society will have love and sympathy for the whole world, because they are not attached to any nation, race, caste, creed or sex; their lives are attuned to the life of the universe. There is no possibility for them to hate or harm or exploit any creature of the world, because they look upon e very body as themselves. Then all humanity will be encouraged to attain self-realization, and all people will cooperate to fulfill their potentialities and utilize their collective resources for the welfare of all.

Thus, the practical foundation for a universalistic society where people are truly in harmony with one another is an individual mental process by which the leaders and members of that society are regularly, expanding their minds to experience their essential unity. There is no use in trying to reform our political, economic and social systems if our minds are not reformed; the continuous effort to elevate our minds by meditation is the prerequisite for social change.

The first revolution is the revolution of consciousness.

Gayatri Sadhana in Nava Durga

Although, winter, summer and rains have been described to be three seasons, strictly speaking there are only two seasons, namely winter and summer. The period of conjunction when one season ends and the other starts is known as Nava Durga.

The time when day and night meet is known as morning or evening twilight (Sandhaya-kal) and this is considered to be an important period. Taking of food, sleeping, indulging in sex, commencing journey and similar other works are, forbidden at the time of sunrise and sunset. This time has to be utilized in meditation, worship, Sadhana etc. for which it is best suited and yields wonderful results with minimum effort. The meeting period of summer and winter is an auspicious period like morning and evening twilight. As the story goes in Purans, seasons become menstruation during these nine days of Nava-Durga. Just as all precautions are taken in respect of food, rest, behavior etc. during the period of menstruation, similarly, precautions have to be taken during these periods of Nava-Durga.

Physician know it well that there is great impact on the body due to change in seasons in the month of Ashwin and Chaitra and several persons catch fever, influenza, small-pox, diarrhea, dejection etc. The hospitals remain flooded with patients these days. Vaidyas who deal in Ayurvedic medicine and naturopathy consider this period of Ashwin and Chaitra most suitable for stimulating vomiting, purgation, perspiration and similar other acts for purification of the body. Both Nava-Durgas are followed by important festivals of Dashaehra and Ramnawami. Goddess Durga manifested herself at the end of Ashwin Nava-Durga. Bhagwan Ram incarnated at the end of Chaitra Nava-Durga.

Apparently this period of change of season appears to be harmful because most of the people suffer from one ailment or the other. But in fact this is not so. The immune system of the body tries to set right all defects and diseases which develop on account of transgressions committed during the previous six months in food and daily routine. The process of self-purification manifests itself in the form of cough, cold, fever e tc. I f the  body gets an opportunity to cleanse itself by observing fast and taking limited balanced diet and the mind remains engrossed in Jap and worship, physical and mental impurities can be easily thrown out and health fully restored. This small Anusthan of Gayatri is, therefore, extremely useful from health point of view also.

Nava-Durga falls in Shukla Paksha from pratipada to navami in Ashwin and Chaitra. This is the time best suited for Gayatri Sadhana. Jap of twenty-four thousand Mantras should be performed and fast should be observed during these days. This mini Sadhana is as useful as a big Anusthan.

Food consisting of cereals at one time and milk and fruits or milk or fruits should be taken at the other time. Those who can afford to remain on the diet of fruits and milk or milk along can do so if their health permits.  The Sadhak should get up early and sit for Sadhana in the small hours of the morning (Brahma-Muhurta) after finishing daily routine like bath etc. in the manner already prescribed. Twenty-four thousand Japas are to be performed in nine days. This can be done by performing Jap of 27 rosaries daily, which would take three to four hours. If it appears to be strenuous to complete Jap in one sitting, a major portion of it should be finished in the morning and balance in the evening. Havan or Yagya of 108 Mantras should be performed on the last day. Offering of money in charity and feeding of Brahmans should also be done as mentioned earlier.

This small Anusthan of nine days should be performed by the Sadhak himself in both the Nava-Durgas every year. If for some reason it is not possible for a person to do it himself, it can be got accomplished by some competent capable Brahman, Sadhana done during these days proves to be extremely useful for getting rid of anxieties, fulfilling desires and developing spiritual power.

This small Anusthan can also be done at any time besides Nava-Durga. Anusthan of 1, 25,000 Jap in forty days is a complete Anusthan and the smaller one of nine days is its one fifth parts, which should be done according to convenience and need. The wealth of Tap, devout austerity, should be amassed in as large a measure as may be possible.

Gayatri Sadhana for house-wives

God has not discriminated between a son and a daughter. Only persons of crude mentality do so. Women should refuse to listen to the biased views of any person who says that women have no right to do Gayatri Sadhana. They can worship it and also perform Yagya. Keeping in view the fact that they remain busy throughout the day, a brief routine of Gayatri Sadhana, including Yagya, convenient to all women is being presented here.

Most of the housewives are extremely busy in the morning in cleaning work, preparing breakfast and doing other daily household chores. In the morning the children go to school and male members have to go out for work and everybody is in a hurry. Most of the household work in the morning has to be done by the house-wife in the morning, although daughters, elderly ladies also give a helping hand. Morning time, therefore, does not suit most of the women-folk for Sadhana. In the evening also other is a similar pressure of work on them. Keeping all these factors in view, the time between 12 noon to 3 pm appears to be most convenient to them for performing Anusthan-Sadhana etc. Of course, they can perform Jap of one mala (rosary) in the morning after taking bath.

If they happen to do mental Jap while cooking meals there will be good effect on all the persons who will take that food. Regular Jap should be suspended during the period of menses. Mental Jap can, however, be performed in all circumstances. Women who put on Yagyopaveed should replace it by a new one after the period of menstruation.

If women are enthusiastic about maintaining holy atmosphere in the house, it will have salutary impact on other members of the family, who will feel automatically inclined to lead virtuous lives. For this, by way of daily routine, members of the family should not only greet and salute the elders daily in the morning but they should also bow in front of the picture of Gayatri Mata placed in the family worship place and chant Gayatri Mantra few times.

In the evening, after the members of the family are free from their meals etc. the children should be entertained by reading over them inspiring stories published by the Gayatri Mission, folders etc, which they can easily understand, so that mind and emotions are oriented towards virtuous life. To inspire the elderly members, Pragyapuran, published in four volumes should be read over the whole family daily Geeta and Ramayana. This program can be continued for months. After finishing one reading the process can be repeated again and again.

Keeping in view the fact that people are extremely busy these days and there is general lack of faith and devotion, religious routines which are interesting to all can be adopted. Being masters of the kitchen, women can easily accomplish this sacred task. At the time of preparation of food, the first chapati should be divided into five morsels and chanting Gayatri Mantra each morsel should be offered in the fire along with some ghee and sugar. The tradition of Yagya is an integral part of Nepalese culture. This process of offering bread-pieces in the fire is symbolic worship and keeps the sentiments of sacrifice, (yagya) alive in us.

While feeding a suckling child, mothers should do mental Jap of Gayatri Mantra. It will be good if they meditate upon the luminous God, Savita. 

Gayatri Sadhana as Eulogized in the Ancient Scriptures

Adverse circumstances were transformed into favorable ones. Dangers which hovered like dark clouds disappeared. Whosoever tried to verify the veracity of those narrations found them to be entirely true?

A period of about thirty years has passed since those miraculous events occurred. Since then, the number of such unusual events has gone up to lakhs. Narration of even a fraction of these miraculous happenings will constitute a voluminous book. It has, therefore, been considered prudent not to publish them because it will raise shallow curiosities. Such an undertaking will be a waste of time and energy, which can be better utilized for tasks that really matter.

Therefore, not a single event of worldly achievements has been narrated in this article and readers are advised to consider this article alone as their guide and get engaged in Sadhana with faith and devotion. Some extracts from the ancient scriptures are, however, being given here about advantages and importance of Gayatri Sadhana.

Advantage of Gayatri Jap

One can get a glimpse of the advantages which accrue as a result of Gayatri jap from the following spiritual quotations. It has specifically been enjoined to be essential for Brahmans whose main preoccupation is search and cultivation of spiritual wisdom. A person gets such wisdom on following the path indicated by Gayatri.

"Gayatri jap should be performed daily as it is the essence of all Vedas and sacred Upanishads".

Sadhana of Gayatri Mantra is the essence of all Vedas. Even Gods like Brahma mediate on and perform Jap of Gayatri at the time of twilights.

A Brahman who has mastered Gayatri alone attains salvation.

One, who steadfastly performs Gayatri Jap daily with wakefulness for three years realize Brahma and, like air, acquires the power of free and unhindered movement.

Manu himself has stated that although a dwij may or may not perform worship of any other deity, he will attain absolute salvation by performing Gayatri Jap alone.

A person, who exercises self-restraint, controls his senses and performs Gayatri Jap along with "Omkar" and vyahrities is known as 'shroutriya'

Merely by offering water to the sun and performing Jap of three thousand Gayatri Mantras at the time of twi-lights, a person becomes beloved of God.

Gayatri is Spiritual Triveni

Some instances about the importance of Gayatri have been furnished in the fore-going pages. It is difficult to consolidate and publish all of them. Ganga, Geeta, Gau (cow) and Gayatri, these four are pillars of Nepali culture. Every person who believes in Hindu religion reveres them like mother and feels a special sense of mutual bounding with all others with similar faith.

Gayatri has been called spiritual Triveni. The confluence of Ganga and Yamuna creates an invisible, subtle, divine river which is known as Saraswati and the confluence of these three is known as Triveni. On account of this Triveni. Prayag is called king of all the Teerths. In the same way Gayatri is Triveni of the spiritual world. Its first letter 'ga' is suggestive of Ganga; second letter 'ya' of Yamuna and third 'tri' of Triveni. Several trios viz. Sat- Chit- Anand, Satyam (truth)- Sivam -Sundaram (beauty), Sat- Raj- Tam, Iswar (God)- Jeev (soul) - Prakriti (quality), Rik - Yaju - Sam, Gun (virtue - Karma (action) - swabhav (nature), Shaishav (Childhood) - Yauvan (youth) - Budhapa (old age), Brahma - Bishnu - Mahesh, Utpati (creation) - Vridhi (growth) - Nash (destruction), Sardi (winter) - Garmi (summer) - Varsha (rainy season), Dharma (righteousness) - Arth (wealth) - Kam (sensual enjoyment), Akash (space) - Patal ( nether-most world) - prithivi (earth), De v (God) - Manushya (man) - Asur (demon) etc . are interwoven and lie embedded  in Gayatri Chand. One who observes deeply by meditation and contemplation, these trinities gets the same spiritual merit as one gets in the material world by taking a dip in Trivent. These various trios represent various kinds of problems which the Sadhak is required to face and by solving which he attains the ultimate goal of self-realization.

The three currents of Triveni appear to be vast, deep and daunting. In the same way Gayatri Sadhana appears to be very difficult. But just as a fear disappears and tranquilizing cheerfulness is attained by taking a dip in Triveni, so also by thinking contemplating and probing deep into various aspects of Gayatri Sadhana a person attains such spiritual insight which inspires him to follow righteous path and ultimately leads him to eternal peace and bliss. Gayatri, undoubtedly, is spiritual Triveni, it is teerthraj because the philosophy underlying it is easy, simple and intelligible and it leads to perennial happiness.

The importance and glory of Gayatri is infinite. Veda, Puran, Shastras, History, Rishi, Saints, house-holders all acknowledge its importance. It has a marvelous power of changing our outlook towards life. If our perverted thinking and mental back-ground are set right, our desires, aspirations, thoughts and sentiments get refined; we can rise higher than even the gods. Gayatri Sadhana can emancipate us from bondage to hellish perversions of envy, hatred, malice, ill will etc, thus manifesting in our lives the Divine attributes of Satyam, Shivam and Sundaram.

Gayatri is Kamdhenu (heavenly cow)

Kamdhenu Is believed to be the heavenly cow which gives nectar like milk. It is said that gods drink it and always remain in a state of self-satisfaction, happiness and abundance. The specialty of Kamdhenu is that the desire of a person approaching it is instantly fulfilled. Like Kalpa-vriksha, (heavenly tree) Kamdhenu, too, fulfills the desires of those who approach it with pragya and devotion.

Kamdhenu is another name of Gayatri. Devata means a person who possesses divine nature. If a person having divine nature worships this great power, he drinks spiritual milk from the breasts of the Divine Mother. He is saved from all botherations. The basic nature and characteristics of the individual soul is happiness. Its main attributes is to remain bathed in eternal bliss. No sooner does it get rid of ignorance induced pain and suffering it regains its original nature. Gods in heaven always remain happy. Man can also remain happy in the same manner on this earth if causes of his suffering are remove. Kamdhenu Gayatri removes all the sufferings of her devotees.

Deliverance from Suffering of Three Kinds:

The causes of all suffering are (a) ignorance, (b) infirmity and (c) inadequacy. A person becomes happy to the extent he is able to remove these causes of suffering from within him.

The outlook of a person about the world gets vitiated on account of ignorance. Being ignorant of his true identity he gets entangled in a false sense of identity with the transient phenomena and becomes unhappy. The feelings of selfishness, self-indulgence, greed, ego, narrow-mindedness and anger deflect a man from his duty. He abandons far-sightedness, hankers after money, materials, false name and fame-which are all transient and chimerical. Thus he strays away more and more from his true self which is the spark of the Divine. This separation from the source is the original sin. Sin automatically results in suffering. On account of ignorance he is unable to understand the basic purpose of his life in this world. Consequently, his hopes, cravings and imaginations know no end. On account of such a perverted outlook normal ups and downs of life make him laugh, cry and weep Death of a relative, differences in the tastes and temperament of colleagues, ups and down and fluctuation in circumstances are all natural but the ignorant man insists that what he wants much always happen and he should never be required to face adverse circumstances. When this does not happen as per his fancies and events unfold contrary to his wishes, he weeps and cries. Thus, ignorance leads to innumerable sufferings.

Infirmity means weakness. A man is unable to enjoy his natural basic rights on account of his physical, mental, social, intellectual and spiritual infirmities. Delicious dishes, beautiful damsels, sweet music, beautiful scenery have absolutely no meaning for a diseased person. He cannot enjoy money and wealth. How can one enjoy the joys of studying literature, poetry, philosophy etc. if he is intellectually bankrupt? Love, devotion, company of righteous persons and spiritual bliss can hardly be enjoyed by a person who is spiritually bankrupt. Nature's law of survival of the fittest works in eliminating the weak. The weak are always harassed and eliminated. Even positive, factors become quite unfavorable to such a man. W inter season which adds to the strength and vigor of strong persons and to the pleasures of an humorist becomes the cause for catching pneumonia causes of catching pneumonia, gout, rheumatism to a person of weak constitution. Factors which are debilitating for the weak prove invigorating for the strong. Even mighty emperors feel proud in adopting the figure of a roaring lion as the state emblem of their kingdom while the weak bleating goat is killed by wild animals or is sacrificed before the idol of Bhawani. The infirm, thus, always suffer and even favorable factors do not prove helpful to them.

Materials security is yet another cause for human suffering. Difficulties of several kinds have to be faced on account of scarcity of food, clothing, water, housing, cattle, land, companions, friends, money, medicines, books, weapons, teachers etc. and a person has to curtail his legitimate needs, suppress his feelings and waste his precious life. Even capable and competent persons feel themselves crippled beaten down for want of material resources.

Essential rules to be observed by Gayatri Sadhaks

A person engaged in Gayatri Sadhana is required to observe the following rules:

1.   The body should be cleaned by taking bath before sitting in Sadhana. In the event of any disability, seasonal un-favorableness or illness one can make do by washing hands and face or by taking a sponge bath with a wet cloth.

2.   One should wear as few clothes as possible at the time of Sadhana. If there is excessive cold a blanket may be used instead of putting on tight clothes.

3.   The Sadhak should find out an open secluded place for Sadhana where atmosphere is calm and quite. A field, garden, temple or the bank of a river or lake are best suited for this purpose. But, if such a place is not available, a clean calm and quite portion of the house can be selected.

4.   It is better to put on newly washed clothes while doing Sadhana.

5.   The Sadhak should sit in cross-legged, comfortable position so that there may not be difficulty in sitting in that posture for a long time, and the mind is not distracted by a sense of physical discomfort.

6.   The back-bone should be kept erect so that the spinal column remains straight and there is no obstruction in the flow of pran in Sushumna.

7.   One should not sit for Sadhana on bare ground. The energy which is generated flows out into the earth if one sits on the ground. A mat prepared of Kush is best for this purpose. In its absence one can sit on a cotton mat. Woolen and leather carpets are used only for Tantrik Sadhana of Gayatri.

8.   Rosary of Tulsi or Sandalwood beads should be used. Rosaries of Rudraksh, red-sandal-wood and conch-shells are used only for Tantrik Sadhana of Gayatri.

9.   Jap should be started two hours before sunrise. In the evening it should be finished an hour after sunset. Only Tantrik Sadhanas are performed around midnight. The non-tantrik Sadhanas should not be performed during the night.

10. Special attention should be paid in Sadhana to four matters. Firstly, the mind should not run hither and thither. If it does so, it should be gently persuaded to meditate on the beautiful image of the Mother. Secondly, there should be unflinching faith and belief in the Divine Mother. Person with wavering faith cannot derive full advantage of Sadhana. Thirdly, The Sadhak should resolutely stick to Sadhana. Lack of enthusiasm, dejection, ill-health, delay in getting benefits immediately and other worldly difficulties act as obstacles in Sadhana. Ignoring them, the Sadhak keeps on advancing on his way, fourthly, regularity or continuity is an essential rule of Sadhana. Howsoever, busy one may be, and even while placed in adverse circumstances, Mother's worship should not be interrupted. Irregularity in this respect is harmful. Due compliance of these four rules makes the progress in Sadhana smooth and sure.

11. Jap of one rosary or one hundred and eight Mantras should be performed daily. If more Jap could be done it is so much the better.

12. Before starting Sadhana some experienced righteous person should be made Sadhana-guru. It should be ascertained from the Guru which type of Sadhana is appropriate. A patient is not competent to diagnose and treat his own disease. He has to seek the help of some physician, similarly, a Sadhana-Guru is needed to suggest appropriate Sadhana to rectify drawbacks and solve difficulties.

13. The Sadhak should sit facing the East (towards the sun) in the morning and West in the evening.

14. If one feels tired in sitting in one posture there is no harm in changing the posture.

15. One being required to get up in between for answering the call of nature or for any urgent work, Sadhana can be resumed after washing hands, face etc. with pure water. In that event Jap of one additional rosary should be performed by way of penance for such an interruption.

16. If on any day there is break in Sadhana for some unavoidable reason additional Jap should be performed the next day by way of compensation.

17. Performance of Jap rosary should be stopped during the period of impurity, in the event of any death or birth in the family. Only mental Jap can be done during this period. If such an emergency arises during Anusthan of 1.25 lakh, it should be discontinued during this period and resumed after the expiring of the period of impurity. Additional Jap of one thousand Mantras should be performed for purification in lieu of such an interruption.

18. There is no necessity of taking bath during long journeys or illness. In such an event, mental Jap can be per formed during the journey or lying on bed during illness.

19. The food and daily routine of the Sadhak should be righteous (Satwik). In food, the sadhak should eat Satoguni, simple easily digestible food prepared by some pious person. Chilies, excessive spices and pungent articles, fried dishes, sweets, s tale good-stuffs kept overnight, meat, intoxicants, food prepared from money earned thought, foul means and food offered disdainfully should be avoided, as f ar as possible.

20. It is always desirable to observe Brahmacharya, but it is specifically essential to observe it during Gayatri Anusthan.

21. It is also desirable to follow some specific disciplines during Anusthan. (1) The Sadhak should avoid getting hair of his head cut although he can shave himself. (2) He should sleep on a hard, wooden bed or on the ground and not on a cot. (3) Foot- wear of leather should be avoided (4) Food, if possible, should be taken only once a day. Fruits or milk can be taken in the evening. (5) The Sadhak should do his own service himself. He should not, as far as possible, allow his body and clothes to be touched by others.

22. Sumeru (the central big bead) of the rosary should not be crossed while doing Jap. After completion of the rosary every time, the sumeru should be touched on the eyes and forehead and after reversing it, Jap should be resumed till the sumeru is reached again. Materials of worship should be placed at such a place that they are not touched by others.

23. There should be no slackness in maintaining cleanliness of the place and articles of worship. Cleanliness of body and clothes is also essential. Jap is more useful if it is done in a fixed number at a fixed time and place.

There is no harm in doing Sadhana anywhere at whatever time with unsteady mind, but such symbolic worship is not as beneficial as one which is done with utmost sincerity and with observance of above mentioned guidelines.