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SeeAlwaysInside
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SAI
SeeAlwaysInside
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This festival signifies the beginning of the harvest season God does not exist for those who deny Him. He exists for those who believe in His existence. He says 'yes' for those who say 'yes' and 'no' for those who say 'no'. You may say 'yes' or 'no', but, for Sai, everything is 'yes, yes, yes'. If someone were to tell you that God does not exist, teach him a lesson saying, "God may not exist for you but He does exist for me. You have no right to deny the existence of my God. "With such courage and conviction, you should uphold our ancient culture. Being born as the children of this land of courage and valor, do not give scope for weakness of any kind. You are not weak, you have all the strength in you. Take a pledge to accomplish the task of restoring our ancient culture with courage and determination. God Himself has taken three pledges - that, He will incarnate age after age for the establishment of Dharma (Parithranaaya Saadhunaam Vinaashayacha Dushkritam Dharma Samsthapanaarthaya Sambhhavami Yuge Yuge), that, He will take care of those who constantly contemplate on Him (Ananyaah Chinthayanthomaam Ye Janaah Paryupaasathe Theshaam Nithyaabhiyukthaanaam Yogakshemam Vahamyaham) and that, He will grant liberation to those who surrender to Him completely (Sarvadharmaan Parithyajya Maamekam Saranam Vraja Aham Twa Sarvapaapebhyo Moksha Ishyaami Maasuchaha). Likewise, you too should take three vows that you will firmly believe in the existence of God, that you shall see Him and that you will become one with Him. Make every effort to fulfil these vows. Develop love in order to acquire Divine grace. You cannot get even a handkerchief unless you pay for it. You are asking God for peace, happiness and liberation. But what are you giving to God in return? Offer your love to Him and receive His grace in the form of peace, happiness and liberation. You have no right to ask unless you give. Only through love and service will you earn the right to ask. Tomorrow marks the commencement of holy Uttarayana. It is for this auspicious moment that Bhishma waited for 56 long days lying on a bed of arrows to give up his mortal coil. Tomorrow the sun begins its northward journey, which is most auspicious. Make best use of the divine proximity of Sai. Once you lose this precious chance to serve the Lotus Feet, you will never regain it. Sai confers devotion, power and ultimately liberation on you. Never get misguided by the words of others. Keep this in mind and redeem yourself. This festive day has been celebrated from ancient times as a day of fulfillment and joy. Every festival is a social occasion, arising in society, flourishing in society, and promoting the well being of society. Every festival has been designed to promote the welfare of society. With social changes, festivals also have undergone changes. Today's festival is an extremely important one for Bharatiyas. It is a festival to celebrate the glory of the Sun God. The Sun moves every month from one sign of Zodiac to the next. Sankranthi meaning 'sacred change' - occurs every month as the Sun moves from one house of the Zodiac to another. But special sacredness attaches to the movement of the Sun to Capricorn (Makara-Sankranthi). The Sun
appears cool On Sankranthi day the farmers rejoice over the fullness of the granaries in their homes with the newly harvested crop. When the Sun enters the sign of Capricorn, he begins his northward motion. The sun shines in every human body illuminating the 'six chakras'. Of these chakras (spiritual centres in the body) two are most important: the Hridaya Chakra and the Sahasraara Chakra. The Hridaya Chakra has eight petals. God is the Lord of the eight- petalled Hridaya Chakra. These eight petals are regarded as eight consorts of the Lord. In this context the Lord is adored in the form of the Sun. The world cannot survive without the Sun. The solar system is derived from the Sun. Hence the Sun is worshipped as Divine. The ancient sages adored the eight petalled Divine centre in the heart and thereby reached the Sahasraara Chakra and enjoyed supreme bliss. Today's holy festival is related to the beginning of the apparent northward movement of the sun (Uttaraayana). The sun moves every month from one house of the zodiac to the next. Today the sun enters the house of Makara (Capricorn) and hence it is known as Makara Sankraanthi. This auspicious day heralds the conferment of many worldly and spiritual blessings on man. The Sankraanthi day is a witness to the prospective successes of man in many fields. Sankraanthi day marks the arrival in the farmers' houses of the grains which are the fruit of their labors. Sankraanthi is a holy festival for a worldly achievement. It is also a cherished day of rest in the cool atmosphere. Man needs days of rest after a period of hard work. Only then he can enjoy peace of mind. "Samyak kranthi iti Sankraanthi". Sankraanthi confers peace and heralds a welcome change. It brings out the inner joy in people. It effects a change in the life-style. It generates sacred thoughts. Sankramana is the time when the inward journey towards a pure and unsullied heart is made. Just as the sun embarks on his northward journey, Sankraanthi is the day on which the intellect should be turned towards the Atma for Self-realization. The Veda has declared the Uttaraayana as a sacred period. The great warrior Bhishma, lying on a bed of arrows, waited for 56 days for the advent of Uttaraayana to end his life. The puranas have stated that whoever passes away in Uttaraayana will attain liberation. In the movement of the sun from house to house in the Zodiac, the entry into Capricorn is most important. Capricorn is a sign of peace and contentment. According to the Gregorian calendar, Sankranthi begins on January 13 or 14. This confers a kind of mental and physical peace. Few people understand the true significance of festivals like Sankranthi. Man cannot secure enduring bliss through physical pleasures. He has to discover that the source of this bliss is within himself. Sankranthi enables man to make this discovery, like a man who carrying his spectacles on his forehead searches for it everywhere and discovers to his joy that it has been with him all along. The Divine is not anywhere else. It is enshrined in one's heart. Hence, the man who seeks the Divine within his heart redeems himself. He then attains liberation. All external spiritual exercises are of temporary value. They should be internalized to experience lasting bliss. All mental exercises also leave the heart unaffected. In the nine paths of devotion, beginning with listening to sacred things and ending with total surrender of the self (Aatma nivedanam), the last is the most important. After "Aatmanivedanam" (total surrender) there is no need for any other effort. "Sankraanthi" gives the call for this total surrender. Sankraanthi is a kind of family festival. Yes. This is so. But the whole world is one family ("Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"). The festival relates to the entire world. It is not confined to one's kith and kin. Sankraanthi is related to the entire mankind. Whether people realize it or not, Sankraanthi promotes in one and all a feeling of happiness. Sankraanthi promotes mental transformation. It illumines the minds of people. It induces the unfoldment of inner feelings. It brings about the manifestation of the invisible Atma within everyone. Sankraanthi is pregnant with such immense significance. It influences not only the mind but also the powers of nature. Nature is a projection of the mind. The world is rooted in the mind. (Manomoolam idam Jagath"). When the mind is turned towards the heart and the heart is filled with the Divine, the mind will cease to be a source of trouble. The mind is the master of the senses. When the senses are controlled the mind is under control. Only the master of the mind can attain Madhava (the Divine). In the Dwapara Yuga the cowherds and cowherdesses used to experience boundless joy in the presence of Krishna, forgetting themselves in their devotion to the Lord. On Sankraanthi Day they used to employ cow-dung as a sacred means of cleansing purposes. They demonstrated also the inner significance of the Sankraanthi celebration. They placed three balls of cow-dung in front of their houses, fixing three pumpkin flowers on their top and went round singing and dancing in adoration of Krishna. What is the significance of these three balls of cow-dung? In olden days, people used to sprinkle water mixed with cow-dung in front of their houses. The cow-dung helped to destroy the bacteria in the atmosphere. The cow-dung was considered a symbol of health and happiness. The first cow-dung ball represented Krishna who was worshipped as Gopala (the protector of cows). Krishna was adored as bestower of joy and health. The second cow-dung ball was placed as a symbol of the Govardhana Hill which Krishna lifted and thereby demonstrated his divinity. The third cow-dung ball symbolised the cow, which is the source of health and joy for the people as the giver of milk. Gopala, Govardhana, and Go (the cow) were worshipped in this manner. Among vegetables the pumpkin has a place of honour as the largest in size. The Gopikas looked upon the pumpkin as a symbol of large heartedness. Hence, pumpkins were offered as fitting gifts on Sankraanthi Day. What is the gain from this offering? The pumpkin does not rot quickly. It can be preserved for a long period. Any number of edible preparations can be made from it. It can also be used in combination with many other vegetables. Because of its distinct qualities, the offer of a pumpkin also meant making an offer of one's virtues. The Sankraanthi festival should be regarded as the day on which man turns his vision towards God. Man's life may be compared to a stalk of sugarcane. Like the cane, which is hard and has many knots, life is full of difficulties. But these difficulties have to be overcome to enjoy the bliss of the Divine, just as the sugarcane has to be crushed and its juice converted into jaggery to enjoy the permanent sweetness of jaggery. Enduring bliss can be got only by overcoming trials and tribulations. Gold cannot be made into an attractive jewel
Love of Motherland - Love of God
The principle of Atma has neither birth nor death; it has neither beginning nor end; it is all pervasive and is the eternal witness; Atma is Brahman and Brahman is Atma (Poem in Telugu)
The Lord of Puttaparthi will always protect you. He is the ocean of compassion. Holding your hand, He will take care of you. He will never forsake you. Recognize this truth. (Poem in Telugu)
Bharat is the holy land of the Vedas and the sacred rituals like Yajnaas and Yagaas. It is the motherland of many noble souls. It is the land of sacrifice that has taught to the world morality and code of conduct.
Embodiments of Love!
Bharat is the center of truth, righteousness and morality. It is your great good fortune to have been born in this sacred land. This is the land of merit, penance and sacrifice (Thyaga). Such a Thyagabhoomi (land of Thyaga) is being converted into a Bhoga Bhoomi (land of pleasure). We do not need a Bhagya Bhoomi (land of wealth) or a Bhoga Bhoomi (land of pleasure). It should remain a Thyaga Bhoomi. So, every citizen of Bharat should develop the spirit of sacrifice and work hard. Bend the body, mend the senses and end the mind - this should be your endeavor. Live up to the reputation of Muddu Biddalu (dear children) of this motherland. Do not become Moddu Biddalu (dunces) or Chedda Biddalu (bad children). Your motherland will feel proud of you only when you become noble and ideal. You may not hold any worldly qualifications, but you can take pride in the fact that you are the sons of this sacred land of Bharat. This in itself is the greatest qualification. Bharat is the land endowed with the wealth of spirituality, sacrifice and bliss. Born in this sacred land, every Bharatiya should resolve to foster spiritual values and the spirit of sacrifice. Consider service as your duty. Service is God. Divinity can be experienced only through service.
On deep enquiry, you will know that you are God. You are in God and God is in you. Understand this truth and act accordingly. You should be able to say with conviction that you are a spark of the Divine. If someone were to question where is God, you should say with courage and conviction that God is everywhere.
Never doubt the omnipresence of God and say that He is here and is not there. In fact, you can find Him wherever you search for Him. (Telugu Poem)
God does not exist for those who deny Him. He exists for those who believe in His existence. He says 'yes' for those who say 'yes' and 'no' for those who say 'no'. You may say 'yes' or 'no', but, for Sai, everything is 'yes, yes, yes'. If someone were to tell you that God does not exist, teach him a lesson saying, "God may not exist for you but He does exist for me. You have no right to deny the existence of my God." With such courage and conviction, you should uphold our ancient culture. Being born as the children of this land of courage and valor, do not give scope for weakness of any kind. You are not weak, you have all the strength in you. Take a pledge to accomplish the task of restoring our ancient culture with courage and determination. God Himself has taken three pledges - that, He will incarnate age after age for the establishment of Dharma (Parithranaaya Saadhunaam Vinaashayacha Dushkritam Dharma Samsthapanaarthaya Sambhhavami Yuge Yuge), that, He will take care of those who constantly contemplate on Him (Ananyaah Chinthayanthomaam Ye Janaah Paryupaasathe Theshaam Nithyaabhiyukthaanaam Yogakshemam Vahamyaham) and that, He will grant liberation to those who surrender to Him completely (Sarvadharmaan Parithyajya Maamekam Saranam Vraja Aham Twa Sarvapaapebhyo Moksha Ishyaami Maasuchaha). Likewise, you too should take three vows that you will firmly believe in the existence of God, that you shall see Him and that you will become one with Him. Make every effort to fulfil these vows.
The year 2000 has commenced. Many have given a bad picture of what lies ahead in this year. But there is nothing bad in this world. Even that which appears to be bad is also good. So, never consider anything bad. How can evil enter God's creation? Everything happens according to His Will. There is no scope for bad events to take place, when the Divine Will is always good and pure. How can you point out something as bad when Divinity pervades everything? Good and bad lie in your Drishti (vision), not in Srishti (creation). You should have firm faith that whatever happens is good for you and face any eventuality with courage. Students having such courage and conviction are needed today. You all know that the world is facing many hardships. Human life will find fulfillment only when one acts with courage and conviction in the face of adversity. Never get disheartened and retrace your steps. God has created you not to lead a selfish life. Uphold Dharma for the welfare of humanity, even if it were to be at the cost of your life. After all, death occurs only once in a lifetime. Everything happens according to God's Will. Man who has been created by the Divine Will should sanctify his life by following the Divine command. No matter what others say or do, have unflinching faith in God. Only the good face impediments in their path. Whatever happens is for your own good. When a student fails in the exams, he does not give up. He works hard to attain success in the next examination. Similarly, never give up in the face of adversities in life. The pleasure is an interval between two pains. Vyasa said, Na Sukhaath Labhyathe Sukham. Happiness results only when you overcome difficulties. Happiness has no value in the absence of difficulties, just as light has no value in the absence of darkness. Difficulties are part and parcel of human existence. So take them in your stride.
Once Kunti prayed to Krishna for incessant difficulties so that she could remember Him always. She said, "Krishna, when my husband, King Pandu was alive, hardly did I remember You because I was immersed in all pleasures and comforts. After his death we were put to untold suffering, as a result of which we remembered You always. Now I realize the value of difficulties. They help me to remember You always. I am ready to face any hardship, but kindly ensure that my love for You never diminishes."
Forty-two years had passed after the Kurukshetra war. Arjuna was returning from Dwaraka. The entire clan of Yadavas were embroiled in squabble, as a result of which they perished. Krishna too had left His mortal coil. Sighting Arjuna at a distance, Dharmaja went up to Him and enquired about the well being of Lord Krishna. Arjuna fell down in a heap saying, our friend, mentor and God, Lord Krishna is no more. On hearing this Kunti collapsed and breathed her last on the lap of Dharmaja. A grief-stricken Dharmaja gave vent to his feelings, "Oh Mother! Have you gone in search of our dear Lord Krishna? It appears to be so. Life is meaningless without Krishna. All along we lived with Krishna, earned name and fame and emerged victorious in the war. All this was possible because He was by our side. There is no meaning in life after Him." He summoned Bhima and asked him to make arrangements for mother Kunti's funeral. Arjuna was asked to make arrangements for the coronation of his grandson, while Nakula and Sahadeva were asked to be prepared for the Mahaprasthanam. All the three activities - Kunti's funeral, coronation of Parikshit and the Pandavas Mahaprasthanam were to take place on the same day. Only Dharmaja could execute these diverse duties with equanimity.
Having performed the last rites of their mother Kunti and crowned Parikshit, the Pandavas left Hastinapura for the forest. Draupadi who considered the five Pandavas as her five life breaths also followed them. The Pandavas remained united both in pleasure and pain. Such unity is lacking today. Happiness and sorrow are like passing clouds. One should not be elated in times of pleasure or depressed in times of pain. One should remain equal minded, unaffected by happiness or sorrow. This is the sign of true devotion. Devotion does not mean performing Puja or undertaking rituals. Devotion stands for constancy of love for God. It also means implicit obedience and subservience to the will of God. Lakshmana followed Rama to the forest as he considered Him to be his very life-breath. On reaching Chitrakoota mountain, Rama instructed Lakshmana to put up a shelter. When Lakshmana asked Him to show the location, Rama replied, "Erect it at the place of your choice." Hearing this Lakshmana fell in inconsolable grief. He said, "What sin have I committed to hear such harsh words from You? Have I not surrendered to Your Will? Do I have likes and dislikes of my own?" Seeing Lakshmana's plight, Sita remarked, "Lakshmana, why are you so agitated? Rama neither beat you nor did he admonish you." Lakshmana replied, "Mother, I would have been happy if beaten or scolded by Him, but I cannot bear to hear that my likes and dislikes are separate from His. There is no greater sorrow than hearing such words from Lord Rama." This incident reveals the intensity of devotion and total surrender of Lakshmana.
Surrender implies that the 'individual will' should become one with the 'Divine Will's. Obey the Divine Command implicitly without questioning. That is the sign of true devotion. Whatever God does is for your good. God subjected Pandavas to innumerable hardships. Ultimately victory was theirs as they obeyed His command implicitly. Through devotion and sincerity you can achieve anything in life. Do not crave for Bhoga (pleasure); aspire for Yoga. Yoga means union with God. Bhagavad Gita starts with the chapter Vishada Yoga. Arjuna's Vishada (sorrow) turned into Vi]aya (success) on account of his association with Krishna. Before attaining success in any endeavor one has to face hardships. Pleasure and pain come together just as the bitter rind and the sweet juice coexist in an orange fruit. You cannot enjoy the sweet juice of sugarcane unless it is crushed. Likewise, gold has to be put in fire, hammered and cut before it is made into a beautiful jewel. Similarly, humanness will shine forth only when one undergoes trials and tribulations.
Hiranyagarbha is another name for Divinity. If you place this Divine gold in your heart, you can make any ornament of your choice like truth, righteousness and peace. Just as no ornament can be made without gold, you cannot obtain the jewels of Sathya, Dharma and Santhi without Divinity. Hiranyagarbha is immanent in everyone. This is why Swami calls everyone Bangaru You pray Lokah Samasthah Sukhino Bhavanthu (let the whole world be happy). It is possible only through Divinity. Develop love in order to acquire Divine grace. You cannot get even a handkerchief unless you pay for it. You are asking God for peace, happiness and liberation. But what are you giving to God in return? Offer your love to Him and receive His grace in the form of peace, happiness and liberation. You have no right to ask unless you give. Only through love and service will you earn the right to ask.
Man is composed of five sheaths viz., Annamaya Kosha, Pranamaya Kosha, Manomaya Kosha, Vijnanamaya Kosha and Anandamaya Kosha. As mentioned earlier, human body corresponds to Annamaya Kosha (food sheath). Each sheath - Anandamaya, Vijnanamaya, Manomaya, Pranamaya and Annamaya Kosha - is subtler than the other in that order. In order to attain liberation, one has to reach the subtlest of all these sheaths, i.e., Anandamaya Kosha. The same is declared in Vedanta too. This Ananda is also referred to as Brahmananda. Such bliss can be experienced only through Divine Love.
Chanting of the Divine Name of Lord Sai Rama will destroy mountains of sins. I often tell you Pibare Rama Rasam (drink the nectar of Lord Rama's Name). Tulsidas prayed to Rama for the nectar of His Divine love. When sugar and water are mixed, syrup is formed. Likewise, when your love becomes one with the Divine love, you become immortal.
Do not hate anybody. Love all. Many of you feel bad, thinking that Swami does not speak to you. But, you do not enquire whether you are following Swami's teachings or not. I too follow certain rules and regulations. When I give you something, you should make proper use of it. Otherwise, what is the point in My giving? When I give you what you ask for, is it not your duty to do what I say? I feel it is better not to speak than to speak and lose the value of My words. Each word of Mine has immense value associated with it. I will fulfil your wish only when you obey My command. God does not have anger or hatred towards anybody. But, you have to face the consequences of your actions. As is the action, so is the reaction. Yad Bhavam Tad Bhavathi (as is your feeling, so is the result). If you are good, I will certainly yield to your request. Sometimes, I behave as if I am angry, only to put you on the right path. Without understanding this truth, you feel bad that Swami is ignoring you. To what extent have you given place to Swami in your heart? To what extent are you putting His teachings into practice? I take all this into consideration. When a beggar asks for alms, the lady of the house gives him food. Sometimes she even forgoes her own share of food to serve the beggar. But if she finds the beggar throwing away the food, would she serve him the next time? No. Likewise, Swami too stops talking to you if you do not follow His teachings. I do not have any desire whatsoever. I do not need anything from anybody. I do not hate anybody. If you make proper use of what is already given, you will be given much more. Enquire whether your actions are in accordance with Swami's teachings. It is not easy to attain God. You can attain Him only through love. It is possible to understand Divinity only when you get rid of evil qualities. When your heart is filled with negative thoughts, how can you expect God to fill it with His love and grace? First of all, cleanse your heart of all evil qualities. Only then can God fill your heart with His love and grace.
Students should cultivate character along with acquisition of knowledge. Education without culture is useless. Just as current flows when positive and negative come together, likewise your life will be redeemed when education is coupled with culture. Students are good, but they do not know the right path. Some know what is good, but they do not follow because of limitless desires. As worldly desires increase, naturally the desire for the Divine grace diminishes. Head can be filled with noble feelings only when it is empty. But it is not possible to do the same if it is already stuffed with worldly desires. So, first and foremost, rid your head of all desires. I am giving you time for that and I am waiting to shower My grace on you. I will certainly fill your heart with divine love. I am always ready, ready, ready. Those who keep the vessel of their heart pure, easily attain Me.
Embodiments of Love!
Human life is highly sacred and Divine. It is gifted by God. Make proper use of it. Make your parents happy. How can you please Swami if you cannot please your parents? First and foremost, earn the love and grace of your parents. Only then you will be the recipients of Swami's love and grace. Students! Your Sports Meet was most wonderful in all respects. I begin My discourse with a poem, which is like a plate and end it with a Bhajan, which is like a lid that covers various delicious items. The same can be said of our Sports Meet too. The programs of the Institute students were like delicious dishes served on a plate. The Primary School children covered the 'plate' with the lid of love. As a result, this Sports Meet has left an indelible impression in the hearts of one and all. Make everybody happy. That will make Swami also happy. The Primary School children are highly virtuous. They are of tender age. They don't have in them even a trace of worldly desires. I told you earlier the story of Madalasa. She used to keep the child in a cradle while revealing its true identity and explaining the ephemeral nature of this world. She would tell the child, "My dear one, you are one of purity, wisdom and supreme bliss. Wake up from the sleep of attachment (Moha), then you will realize that the Samsara (world) is but a dream." She transformed her sons into renunciants. Seeing this, her husband got annoyed. "Who will take care of this kingdom if you send all the children to the forest?" She replied, "How long can one rule over a worldly kingdom? It is only for a temporary period. I am crowning my sons as the emperors of Hridaya Samrajya (kingdom of the heart), which is true and eternal."
Every human being is essentially pure and divine. But due to the impact of Kali Age, even young children are getting enmeshed in family life. Such being the case even God will not come to your rescue. Once you get carried away by the sleep of family life, you will certainly get dreams of bad thoughts. Then how can you expect God to speak to you? If you have chosen the worldly path, enter the family life and be happy. Gradually develop detachment and devotion. Discharge your duty sincerely. Having chosen family life on your own, it is sheer ignorance on your part to blame God for your suffering. People commit sin and consequently when they are confronted with difficulties, they blame God saying, He does not come to their rescue. There can be no greater ignorance than this. So, never commit sin. Divinity can be experienced even in family life. Do not blame God for your suffering. You have to reap the consequences of your actions. God is the eternal witness. It is a great mistake to criticize God. Leave everything to His Will. Sarvakarmaam Bhagavad Preethyartham (let all your actions be pleasing to God). Then you can achieve anything in life.
[Bhagavan concluded His Discourse with the Bhajan, "Bhajana Bina Sukha Santhi Nahi. . . "]
Revelations of Divinity If all your ambitions do not materialize, do not waver or get depressed. He is a realized one who is cheerful in the face of all adversities. (Telugu Poem)
Embodiments of Love! Men and women students!
"Ekaamsena Sthitham Jagat", the whole universe is based on one fragment of the Divine. Just as the sun's rays do not exist in the absence of the Sun, so also the world cannot exist without divinity, the primordial basis. Here on this table you find a flower, a cup, a mike and a handkerchief. The word 'IS' is used to connote the existence of all these items. Here the emphasis is on the word 'IS'. There is a picture, there is a pot and there is a person. The word IS proves their existence. This explains the principle of divinity in full. The Shakti (power), Leelas (divine play) and the effulgence of God are limitless.
The five elements are responsible for the protection and sustenance of the world. Earth, the first element, is the basis for mountains and hills, rivers and oceans, villages and cities, jungles and forests. You can very well imagine the immense power of the earth, which supports all these. The earth is endowed with infinite power. Scientists have discovered that the earth rotates. True. Logically speaking, the rivers, oceans, mountains, villages and the cities should also rotate when the earth, the basis, rotates. It is not so in reality. It is only the earth that rotates. The railway track is the basis for the train to move. If the tracks also start moving, what would be the plight of the passengers? From this it can be inferred that the track is the aadhaara (basis) and the train, the aadheya (based on). The table is the basis (aadhaara) for the mike (aadheya) to rest upon. Make an effort to understand the relationship between the support (aadhaara) and the supported (aadheya). The earth, which is the repository of all powers (electrical, magnetic etc.) forms the basis, sustains and protects all the objects on it. There is no power, which is not present in the earth. The earth is able to support all the beings on it because of its infinite powers.
Seen or unseen, water, the second element, is present all over the earth. It is the water that sustains the life principle of humanity. It supports life on earth and is responsible for the evolution of life.
The third element, Agni (fire), is also all pervasive. It is present in the form of Jataraagni in the human body. It is this Jataraagni, which maintains the temperature of the human body at 98.4 degrees Fahrenheit. There is fire even in the ocean. That is termed as Badabaagni. There is fire even in trees. When two branches rub against each other, fire is generated. Fire is immanent even in a stone. Fire emerges when two stones are struck against each other. Investigations on these lines will reveal that there is no place without fire.
Similarly the fourth and fifth elements Vayu (wind) and the Aakaasha (space) also are all-pervasive. The Aakaasha is the basis for all. It is the origin of sound. In fact all the other elements originated from Aakaasha. Therefore we can conclude that the divine power which is omnipresent and omnipotent is present in all the five elements. When the five elements themselves are so powerful, how much greater the power of God should be! Though the five elements, which are essentially divine, are present in man, he is in quest of divine power which he feels is present elsewhere. These powers are insignificant for God who is aware of the past, present and future. So, make an attempt to understand the omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent nature of God.
The whole world is also a conglomeration of the five elements. The world cannot exist in the absence of even one of the elements. Whether you see them or not, the five elements are present everywhere. Here is a small example. Though air is invisible and intangible, it is all-pervasive. Similarly, divinity is invisible and intangible, yet, is omnipresent. Without realizing the divinity within him, man becomes egoistic and feels that all his accomplishments are due to his education, intelligence and physical prowess. But in reality it is the divinity that protects and safeguards man at every step from womb to tomb. No one has the power to protect one's own self. It is only the divine power and divine Will that enables man to protect himself. Only divinity has freewill, none else.
Whatever God says or does is for the welfare of humanity. God is selfless. There is no trace of selfishness in God. What is the benefit accruing to the sun by rising and setting. None at all. Sunrise and sunset are for the benefit of mankind. It enables man to discharge his duties during the day and rest during the night. Similarly, every act of God is for the benefit of mankind, not for His own.
As Narsimhamurthi pointed out Kasturi once urged Me not to neglect this body in the process of saving a devotee. I replied that this body has come for the sake of devotees and shall be utilized for doing anything and everything for their welfare. Body attachment is human and total detachment is divine. Attachment to the body is responsible for all suffering and misery. Since God does not have any body attachment, He does not attach any importance to the suffering of His body. Once He assumes a body, many things are bound to happen to the body. Whatever happens is for the welfare of the whole world.
Students, both boys and girls are very good. Students participate in various activities, be it academic or sports, only with a desire to please and satisfy Swami. I am very well aware of this fact. No doubt students strive to please Swami and make Him happy. But, they do not enquire what actually pleases and satisfies Him and makes Him happy. Will Swami be pleased if you display your valor by jumping through a ring of fire or for that matter from a lorry moving at a high speed? Will it satisfy Swami if you display your courage by doing dare-devil stunts on motor bikes like jumping over 10-20 people lying on the ground. I am pleased when you are safe and sound and the audience are pleased and happy with your performance. He is the blessed one who conducts himself in a manner, which hurts neither himself nor others. You should be safe and secure and at the same time desist from activities, which cause apprehensions in others. This is what I want. I am pleased with Nidarsana and not with Pradarsana (exhibitionism). Even a small action done with a heart full of love pleases Me.
I am very well aware of the fact that the year Pramaadi is fast approaching. January is the first month of the New Year. If you experience happiness in the beginning you will be happy throughout. Start early drive slowly and reach safely
While returning from Bangalore (in the month of December), I instructed the Warden not to bring the boys for sports meet. They attributed various reasons to this word of Mine. There may be many reasons (Kaarana), but what I am interested in is the action (Kaarya). After coming over here I told the Vice Chancellor that I do not object to boys participating in various sports and games such as badminton, tennis, volleyball etc. At the same time I cautioned him to ensure that no harm is caused either to the participants or to the audience during the course of the program scheduled for the 11th. Students are tender hearted, full of noble feelings and love for Swami. They planned various programs with a view to please Me. I was very well aware of the impending danger. But, students were not receptive to My words. I felt there was no point in advising them in such a situation. Only when they face the consequences of disobeying My command do they realize the value of My words. Till this moment nobody is aware of what exactly happened on the 11th morning. They said that the sports meet was a grand success. I am also happy when you are successful. Students performed extremely well. Each contributed to the success of this event based on his capacities and capabilities. That morning as I entered the stadium, I spotted two lorries. Immediately I could visualize the danger lurking in the corner. I saw the lorries with huge scaffolding placed over them. The boys planned to perform a few acrobatic feats on them. I knew that one of the rods was not fitted properly and was about to give in. If that were to happen the boy would suffer a major head injury and spinal breakdown. I willed that the boy should be saved and decided to take it upon Myself.
Prior to this one boy suffered a spinal breakdown and had been admitted to the Manipal Hospital in Bangalore. I willed that such an untoward incident should not recur. Once the spinal column breaks it is impossible to set it right. Immediately I arranged for an ambulance to shift the boy to the hospital in Bangalore and gave 10,000 rupees to defray the immediate expenditure. I also ensured that our doctor accompanied him. Parents shed tears of gratitude when they came to know of the love showered by Swami on their son. The doctor said that the boy would not be able to sit or lie down as his spinal column was badly damaged. I told him, "Don't entertain any misgivings. Do as I say." Miraculously, by the time the boy reached the hospital, he could sit. He entered the hospital and sat on the bed. He regained sensation in all his limbs which were numb till then. No danger whatsoever. He was protected because of My infinite mercy and boundless grace. All students should be safe and secure. I have repeatedly declared that students are My property. I consider students' welfare as My welfare and their happiness, My happiness. I never think of My happiness and My comfort. My only concern is that the students should not be disappointed or put to any inconvenience. A day prior to that I had instructed four boys to surround the chariot and keep a vigil. They are also full of love and devotion for Swami. But I noticed that none of them were present at that spot. Nobody is to be blamed. No one does this deliberately. Swami is the very life-breath of the students.
I asked for the chariot to be stopped. A senior devotee was driving the chariot with all sincerity, love and devotion. He stopped the vehicle in accordance with My command. Just when I was about to speak to the Vice Chancellor, the driver accidentally put his foot on the clutch instead of applying the brake. That resulted in a jerk and I fell down on the chariot. As a result I suffered injuries on my head, hand and My spinal column was badly damaged. What the boys had to face, I took it upon Myself. Many men and women were seated in the gallery, but I took care that none noticed My injuries. I pretended as though nothing had happened. The Vice Chancellor was worried thinking that Swami was unable to get up. I knew that any further delay would cause anxiety in the minds of devotees. So, I immediately got up forgetting the pain and started blessing the devotees waving My hands. The pain was so intense and the cut on My hand so deep as though it was pierced with a knife. But the sleeve of the robe covering My hand was intact. This incident gives you a glimpse of the infinite power of Divinity.
I found Myself in an awkward situation. I had to walk up to the dais without My injuries being noticed. So I willed that no one should notice My injuries, lest they become anxious. I walked up to the dais and took My seat. But in the meanwhile the dhoti below the robe was drenched in blood. Concerned that the devotees may get to know of this I walked into the bathroom discreetly. The available towels were insufficient to wipe the oozing blood. I did not want to leave the bloodstained towels in the bathroom, lest someone notices them. Though there was excruciating pain, I washed the towels Myself with soap, squeezed them and put them up for drying. Under no circumstances do I reveal My suffering, pain and fatigue. Some boys were curious to know why I went to the bathroom repeatedly. I replied, "Why are you concerned? It is My job?" Usually I go to the bathroom only twice a day, morning and evening. Since it was bleeding profusely, I had to go to the bathroom 5-6 times in that short duration. In the meantime two students came and prayed that the flag may be hoisted. When I got down from the chair the sensation was such that it seemed as though I was subjected to electric shock. Reflecting on the incident I feel like laughing to Myself. I could not stand firmly on the ground. I thought I should not be deluded by the attachment to the body and walked forward smilingly to hoist the flag. Then I lighted the lamp. I found Myself in an embarrassing situation. I could not sit in any posture comfortably. When I exhort all devotees to give up body attachment, I should set an example Myself in this regard. Saying to Myself in this manner I conducted myself accordingly.
The Primary School children performed extremely well and desired to have a photograph with Me. Acceding to their prayers I walked up to them and took photograph, as I did not want to disappoint them. Subsequently I had to walk up to the play field five more times to take photographs with remaining students. In this manner I detached Myself from the body. My body was numb. There was no sensation whatsoever. My head was reeling. I resolved to make them happy no matter what happened to the body. I decided to keep this to Myself. Concerned that the bloodstains may be visible while returning to the dais from the playground, I ascended the steps leading directly to My seat. Is it possible for a human being to conceal such a major injury from the public gaze for a long time being amidst such a huge gathering? No. I was seated on the chair for five long hours. I am relating all this so that students and devotees may comprehend the nature of divinity. Anyone in My predicament would not have been in a position to sit in the chair even for a second. It would have been impossible even to put a step forward. It was as though the electric shock was piercing My body. It is the electric current, which gives shock, but when I am the current Myself, where is the question of Myself being subjected to shock?
With that feeling I sat through the whole proceedings and returned to the Mandir. The Central Trust members followed Me, but they were not aware of what had happened to Me. The senior devotee apologized for what had happened. Then I told him, "why do you worry about the past? Past is past. I am happy. Do not worry about Me." All of them had their lunch. After the lunch it started bleeding again. All the students were waiting outside for photographs. Again I went into the bathroom to wipe the blood. Noting this Indulal Shah cried out, "Swami, what is this?" I told him lovingly, "Indulal Shah, whatever had to happen to the body has happened", saying so I showed him My injury. All of them cried out in agony. They noticed blood all over. I told them that I would not reveal anything in future if they expressed their sorrow like this. No one knew about it until I reached the Mandir. Likewise, I take upon Myself the untold suffering of students and devotees at various points of time in order to protect them. No one is responsible for this mishap. You may find fault with one individual or other, but no one is responsible for this. Whatever had to happen, happened. That's all.
You are bound to experience the pain and pleasure that you are destined to have even if you hide yourself in a dense forest. When the time comes, your body is bound to perish, in spite of utmost precautions. (Telugu Proverb).
Even mighty emperors and kings who had taken all precautionary measures had to give up their body at the appointed hour. Whatever is bound to happen will happen. One should not resist this unduly. The year Pramaadi is fast approaching. There will be dangers in all fields - politics, education etc. This is an indication of the forthcoming dangers. No one needs to worry about My welfare. I can do anything and everything. Here is a small example. During the Mahabharata war Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna. Krishna diverted all the arrows aimed at Arjuna towards Himself protecting Arjuna in the process. As a result every arrow wounded Krishna and He was bleeding profusely. As Krishna was the charioteer, He had to receive instructions from Arjuna regarding the direction in which the chariot should move. In those days there were no indicators like left and right as we have today. Therefore, Arjuna had to press the region beside the right eye of Krishna with his iron boot to indicate that the chariot should move to the right. Similarly, he had to press the region beside the left eye to indicate to Krishna to turn the chariot to the left. As a result Krishna's face was also bleeding. The whole body of Krishna was drenched in blood. No one observed this, as it was wartime and all were busy in discharging their duties and also due to the fact that Krishna was seated at a height much lower than that of Arjuna. Therefore, only Arjuna could be seen and not Krishna. Krishna protected Arjuna as promised by Him earlier. When Arjuna and Duryodhana approached Krishna for help before the war, Duryodhana opted for Krishna's seven lakh strong army, whereas Arjuna preferred Krishna to the army. Then Krishna assured him "Arjuna, you don't need to fear. The army is comparable to the compartment of a train whereas I am the engine. Compartments can move only when the engine pulls them. So, do not worry, the engine is with you, Arjuna". Arjuna also responded saying "Krishna, it is enough if you are with me." Therefore, all the dangers that were to befall Arjuna were taken upon himself by Krishna. Many such incidents of God protecting His devotees have taken place in all the ages.
So, whatever happened on that day, was entirely due to My will. Neither the students nor the driver are responsible for this. Everyday the students used to enquire as to why I was walking so slowly. I told them, "I don't have enough place to run, if only it is there I am ready even to run." I was conversing with them with a smile on My face. I am narrating this episode only to affirm the fact that I go to any extent to protect My devotees who obey My commands. When I returned to the Mandir I called those four boys. They noticed My injuries and were crestfallen. I chided them for not obeying My command. I asked them, "Why were you not present there at that time as commanded by Me? If only you had obeyed My command, this incident would not have occurred." I told them not to feel sorry about it.
So all those dangers that are to happen during the course of this year have happened. So, follow the divine command, be safe and secure and earn a good name for the institution and make your parents happy.
Tomorrow marks the commencement of holy Uttarayana. It is for this auspicious moment that Bhishma waited for 56 long days lying on a bed of arrows to give up his mortal coil. Tomorrow the sun begins its northward journey, which is most auspicious. In olden days people used to sing songs describing the arrival of Sankranti.
The sun
appeared cool and serene;
Whatever I will has to happen and none can come in My way. I would like to mention one more point. Last year, on the 19th of November all the ladies gathered to celebrate "Ladies' Day". They said, "Swami, we are wearing the saris gifted by You and experiencing the bliss of Your divine presence. What can we do in return to express our gratitude to You? Please give us a chance to serve You." I replied, "You don't need to do anything, be always happy. That is enough." But some of them pleaded that they be given a chance to provide food to the Sevadals, who are coming in large numbers from various parts of the country to render services in Prasanthi Nilayam. I assured them, that I had already willed it and that it will materialize in a short time. I have willed that the Sevadals should be provided good food, entirely free of cost, for 365 days a year. I have already made arrangements for this. I have got the sheds put up. All the necessary items like gas cylinders, utensils, plates, spoons, rice, dhals etc., have been already procured. None is aware of this. Sathya Sai is a silent worker. From tomorrow onwards food will be served for Sevadals free of cost for ever. Then I summoned the members of the Central Trust and asked them as to what work they were doing. "What is the use of occupying high positions if you do not discharge your duties sincerely?" People from all walks of life and from different strata of society, are coming to serve as Sevadals every year. I may give them food free of cost, but who will bear their travel expenses. The railway fare is increasing day by day. In olden days even 20 rupees were enough to reach Madras from here, but these days even 200 rupees are insufficient. I commanded them to approach the railway authorities for concession travels for the Sevadals. I talk sweetly, at the same time I am stern when it comes to a question of discharging one's duty. I told them either you do this work or resign. The Central Trust members have negotiated with the railway authorities and got the travel concessions sanctioned for Sevadals. Man plunges into action only when told strictly. The railway authorities were very happy. They thanked Me saying, "Swami, it is our good fortune that we got an opportunity to serve Your devotees." Not only this, in order to ensure that the Sevadals and devotees reach Prasanthi Nilayam, without any inconvenience, the Central Government has sanctioned 50 crore rupees for the construction of a railway station near the petrol bunk. We will have trains connecting Penukonda, Dharmavaram and Prasanthi Nilayam. The other day the officials of the railway department had a meeting in Delhi and arrived at this decision. Everybody should be able to reach Prasanthi Nilayam comfortably for Swami's 75th birthday. One may board a train either in Bombay, Madras, Delhi, Hyderabad etc. to reach Prasanthi Nilayam.
Once upon a time this Puttaparthi was a small hamlet with a population of barely 100 people. In such a small village as this who would expect a University, an Aerodrome, a Super Specialty Hospital and a Railway Station to come up in such a short period of time? All these things are happening during the lifetime of the Avatar, which is unprecedented in the history of mankind. During the time of no other Avatar were such stupendous tasks achieved in such a short period of time. Many more wonderful things are going to happen. Today you are able to see Me from close quarters. But after some time you may have to see Me from a distance of a few miles.
So make best use of the divine proximity of Sai. Once you lose this precious chance to serve the Lotus Feet, you will never regain it. Sai confers devotion, power and ultimately liberation on you. Never get misguided by the words of others. Keep this in mind and redeem yourself (Telugu Poem)
I have taken upon Myself this suffering only for your sake and in response to your prayers I have decided to cure Myself now for your sake. "Don't give room for any anxiety. Now Swami is 100% perfect, perfect, perfect."
Follow Swami's command, earn a good name, secure good marks and set an ideal to the rest of the world. That is what I want. In addition for the volunteers, we are making efforts to provide adequate accommodation to the devotees by constructing 100 sheds more. To provide accommodation to the foreigners a suitable piece of land of 150 acres has been acquired on the hillock. For the 75th birthday who knows where one would be placed? But, if you have Swami's grace, you belong to Swami, wherever you may be. Swami is always with you. Never entertain the feeling that Swami will be away from you. Have firm faith in Swami.
In future, you can conduct your programs without hindrance. In the coming year you can organize the sports meet in ways more grand than this. I will not put any brake on your activities. But in certain aspects, you must follow My commands. It is for your good and not Mine. Be safe and secure and lead an ideal spiritual life. Today we find restlessness, anxiety and worry prevalent all over. Spirituality is the only solution to all these ills of society. Due to lack of spirituality man is subject to depression and disease. Diseases are the products of the mind, not the body. Lack of peace of mind results in depression, which in turn leads to disease. Develop physical strength, have faith in God, experience bliss and share it with your fellow beings. Whatever may happen never give up spirituality. It is only devotion to God that protects Bharat, nothing else. Distance yourself from animal qualities and develop human qualities and be one with the divine. How can you understand divinity when you are not able to understand the importance of human values? First practice human values then divinity manifest itself. Take to the path of spirituality, and go around the four corners of the country propagating spiritual ideals and strive for the welfare of the world at large. [Bhagavan concluded His divine discourse with the Bhajan "Govinda Krishna Jai Gopala Krishna Jai..."]
Promotion of Unity: Students' Duty Before
desiring anything one must make himself worthy.
To achieve fame man must qualify himself to deserve it. It is by one's generosity (daanam) that one achieves a good name. By Truth alone is Heaven realized. Character is the root cause of all happiness for man. Hence, to get happiness, or go to Heaven or to earn a good name, one must acquire the requisite worthiness. Significance of Sankranthi This festive day has been celebrated from ancient times as a day of fulfillment and joy. Every festival is a social occasion, arising in society, flourishing in society, and promoting the well being of society. Every festival has been designed to promote the welfare of society. With social changes, festivals also have undergone changes. Today's festival is an extremely important one for Bharatiyas. It is a festival to celebrate the glory of the Sun God. The Sun moves every month from one sign of Zodiac to the next. Sankranthi meaning 'sacred change' - occurs every month as the Sun moves from one house of the Zodiac to another. But special sacredness attaches to the movement of the Sun to Capricorn (Makara-Sankranthi).The Sun
appears cool On Sankranthi day the farmers rejoice over the fullness of the granaries in their homes with the newly harvested crop. Uttaraayana When the Sun enters the sign of Capricorn, he begins his northward motion. The sun shines in every human body illuminating the 'six chakras'. Of these chakras (spiritual centres in the body) two are most important: the Hridaya Chakra and the Sahasraara Chakra. The Hridaya Chakra has eight petals. God is the Lord of the eight- petalled Hridaya Chakra. These eight petals are regarded as eight consorts of the Lord. In this context the Lord is adored in the form of the Sun. The world cannot survive without the Sun. The solar system is derived from the Sun. Hence the Sun is worshipped as Divine. The ancient sages adored the eight petalled Divine centre in the heart and thereby reached the Sahasraara Chakra and enjoyed supreme bliss. The Sahasraara Chakra has a thousand petals. Each petal carries sixteen phases (Kalas). Thus the Sahasraara Chakra is said to represent of 16,000 gopikas, while the eight petals of the Hridaya Chakra are adored as the eight consorts of Krishna. The syllable 'go' in the word gopikas has four meanings: The Veda, the cow, the earth and the faculty of speech (vaak). The gopikas derive their different attributes from these different meanings. They chant the Vedas, protect the cows, nourish the earth and proclaim the glories of the Divine by their speech. The Five Elements In making an offering to Krishna, the mantra that is used is Kleem Krishnaaya Govindaaya Gopijanavallabhaaya Swaaha. It is interesting to explore the full significance of this mantra. Kleem means the earth. It is the first element. Krishnaaya signifies water. 'Govindaaya signifies Fire (Agni). 'Gopijanavallabhaaya' signifies Air (Vaayu). 'Swaaha' signifies Space (Akaasa). The mantra thus represents all the five elements in the cosmos as manifestations of the Divine. The Cosmos cannot exist without these five elements. They are all pervading. It follows that there is no place in the Cosmos where God is not immanent. The Gopikas, through this mantra, taught the world that God should be adored as the omnipresent Divine everywhere in the Cosmos. Hence in every atom, in every particle, the Divine is present all the time. The ancient sages reached the thousand petalled Sahasrara through the adoration of the Lord in the eight-petalled lotus of the heart. They used all their God- given intelligence for this spiritual goal. But modern man is using his intelligence only for worldly ends. The sages considered cultivation of virtues and good qualities and righteous conduct as true education. What do the eight petals of the heart represent? They are: Love (Prema), Truth (Sathyam), Forbearance (Sahanam), Sacrifice (Thyaga), Compassion (Daya), Beauty (Sundaram) and Bliss (Ananda) and Santhi (Peace). To realize the Bliss of the Divine, all the other qualities have to be fostered. God is the embodiment of all these eight attributes. Sacrifice is the most important of them. The Chakora bird is the example for man in the pursuit of purity. It will not drink any water except what rains from a cloud in the sky. It sees in a dark rain bearing cloud the Divine form of the Lord. Man should seek to see and experience the Divine in every object and every being. Students should experience the Divine in all their studies and sports. It has been said: Life is a game, Play it! The Power of Love Life must be permeated with love. Through Love, Truth can be realized and a righteous life can be lived. The ancients attached the highest value to good character. They considered that if character is lost, all is lost. Today people consider that if wealth is lost all is lost. They attach no value to character. Men should strive to lead a virtuous life. The gopikas provide the supreme example of how to lead a life dedicated to the Divine. The episode of Uddhava's mission to the gopikas and their reaction to it as described in the Bhagavatham shows what true and one-pointed devotion to Krishna meant for the gopikas. They had totally surrendered their minds and hearts to Krishna. This day marks the entry of the Sun into the sign of Capricorn in his northwards journey (Uttaraayana). Bhishmacharya, lying on a bed of arrows after he fell wounded, waited for the commencement of Uttarayana to give up his spirit to the Lord. He lay on the bed of arrows for 56 days. This signifies the sacredness of this day. This is the moment for filling one's heart with divine feelings. The God Within There is no need to seek for God in a temple, mosque or church. He is enshrined in every human heart. Unfortunately people go on expensive pilgrimages to all sorts of places forgetting that God is the dweller in their hearts. Why should Indian students go abroad for studies or for jobs? It is better to earn ten rupees within India than ten thousand rupees abroad. This craze for going abroad is utterly meaningless. It is better to lead a good life within India than pursue the mirage of careers abroad. In this context, it is good to remember the teachings of the sage Narada on devotion. Narada is misrepresented as one who reveled in promoting discord. This is totally wrong. He expounded the highest truths about Devotion (Bhakti) and taught how man should realize oneness with God through intense devotion. Unity in Diversity What people need today is the yearning for unity in diversity. Human beings are like the limbs of the body of society. They are integral parts of society. Society is a part of Nature and Nature is a limb of God. Hence the integral and organic relationship between the individual and God through Society and Nature should be properly understood. The body is important in the spiritual process. The Gita has declared that the body (Kshetra) and the indwelling Knower (Kshetrajna) are one. Hence men should engage themselves in sacred actions which will promote the welfare of society and uphold its reputation. To transform society the first requisite is individual transformation. Purify your heart. Then society will also become pure. You should adhere to truth like Harischandra, prepared to face any ordeal. Never go back on your plighted word. Advice to Students Students! You have participated in many games. Prizes are awarded to winners in sports. But do not aspire for prizes given by others. Seek the reward of self-satisfaction. You must have the feeling: "I have done my duty". Duty is God. - Work is worship. Today the wardens approached me and said that Swami should distribute prizes to the winners in the sports events. I did not agree at the outset to distribute. A prize is called bahumathi. The meaning of bahumathi is 'multi-minded'. When a single mind can play so many monkey tricks, what is the result of bestowing many minds? There is a saying that a bachelor is equal to a hundred monkeys. I do not like to confer prizes that unsettle the minds of the students. What is the prize that should be awarded to the students? You are good! You are good! That is the award that you should earn from Swami. Many prize-winning students look forward to getting Padanamaskar at the Feet of Swami when they receive the prizes from Swami. Yesterday I allowed all students to offer Padanamaskar because they were willing to forgo receiving of prizes. It is their spirit of sacrifice that has enabled them to get this benediction from Bhagavan. From Self-confidence to Self-Realization The spiritual edifice is built on the foundation of Self-confidence. The wails are made up of Self-satisfaction. Self-sacrifice is the roof. Self-Realization is fulfillment in life. Students! Fill your minds and hearts with these sacred spiritual truths and go out into the world to spread the spiritual message in every street and every alley. The world today is in utter confusion. Unrest and fear stalk the world. To eliminate this disorder and fear you have to instill devotion among the people. Today the world lacks righteousness and spirituality. The people are immersed in materialism and worldliness. They are after power and pelf. This is utterly wrong. Money comes and goes. Morality comes and grows. You may carry on your vocational duties. But along with it, render social service. See the divine in the people whom you serve. "Oh! My God!" Even an agnostic occasionally invokes the name of God. For instance, on one occasion, Jawaharlal Nehru was visiting the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. During the worship of the Goddess, Nehru noticed a large emerald adorning the idol. He enquired about the value of the emerald. He was interested in the value of the gem. But the devotees in the sanctum were meditating on the divine form of the Goddess. They were concerned about Divinity. Nehru looked at the idol from a worldly point of view. When he was informed that the ornament was worth several lakhs, spontaneously he exclaimed: "My God!" What made him think of God? Because, there is God in everyone. When expressing surprise at something one exclaims: "Oh! My God!" In this manner, people give expression to the Divinity within them unconsciously. A Lesson to the Pandavas Doubts about God may arise sometimes even among staunch believers. This may be illustrated from an incident in the Mahabharata. Once, while the Pandavas were in exile in the forest, Krishna visited them. Krishna was told that the five brothers used to take turns during night to keep a vigil over the activities of evil spirits and demons. One night an evil spirit appeared before the Pandava brothers and they had great difficulty in fighting it. In view of this, Dharmaja, the eldest of the Pandavas, tried to dissuade Krishna from participating in the sentry duty. Krishna, however, insisted on taking his share. During that period no evil spirit appeared. Then came Arjuna's turn and Krishna watched the scene from a distance. To Arjuna's surprise, no evil spirit appeared while Krishna was there. Krishna then explained to Arjuna that evil spirits were only a reflection of one's hatred and fear and when one is free from these, no evil spirit will appear or do any harm. Krishna revealed that the Divine existed even in the so-called evil spirits and that if one gets rid of the evil qualities within him the evil spirits can do no harm. One's anger assumes the form of a demon. If you develop love, everything you confront will have the form of love. This was the lesson Krishna taught the Pandavas. Students should eschew bad qualities like anger, hatred and envy. By manifesting love, they will enjoy bliss. "Follow Your Dharma" The essential message of the Gita is: Follow your Dharma. Do your duty without expectation of the fruits thereof. If you are a householder, perform your duties as a householder. Whatever your stage in life, act according to the duties appropriate to that stage. If everyone does his duty, there is nothing greater in life. But there is one duty that is common to all stages - it is 'hridaya-dharma' the duty dictated by the heart. Fill your hearts with love. Thereby you can accomplish anything. Start the day with Love, Fill the day with Love, End the day with Love - this is the way to God. Cups for the Campuses I am presenting to each campus of the Institute a silver cup. Accept it as my love offering to every student individually. Everyone should develop a sense of oneness with all. The world today suffers from divisiveness. Students should go out into the world and promote the sense of human unity. That will be the offering you can make to me. You are all my property. And I am yours. Let us share each others Love. That is the true path of devotion. It is not ritualistic worship that is the true mark of devotion. It is the feeling of identification with God that is the essence of devotion. During the recent Unity Cup Cricket Match one reputed cricketer observed: "I don't do any work on my own. Whatever I do, I regard as Swami's work. Because I was doing Swami's work, my work was taken care of by Swami. I was not attending to my work. After coming here, I received a telegram to the effect: 'Your task has been accomplished successfully'. He then announced that "while I was attending to Swami's work, Swami carried out my work". Likewise, if you do Swami's work, your work will be taken care of by Me. Dedicate every action to the Divine. The response will be equally Divine. This has been described as 'Divine Vibration'. That vibration will sustain and support your life. [Bhagavan then handed over five mega silver cups to the representatives of the three campuses of the Institute, the Junior College of Anantapur, Higher Secondary School and a special cup to the children of the Primary School in appreciation of their superb presentation]. [Bhagavan concluded His discourse with the bhajan: "Bhajana binaa sukha santhi nahi". But after the bhajan was over, Bhagavan made a short speech calling upon the students to take up social service in the villages after they go back to their homes. This is the way to make use of their studies and put into practice Swami's teachings. "Instill in the villagers devotion to God. Practice what you preach. This is true service. "]
Let Prema and Thyaaga be Your Ideals Students! Embodiments of Love! "Uthsaaham, Saahasam, Dhairyam, Sakthi, Paraakramam, Shadaithe yathra thishtanthi thatra Devasahaayakritam" (Where zeal, determination, courage, intelligence, ability and heroism are present, there Divine help is manifest) (Sanskrit Sloka). In any field, at any time, for any man who is endowed with these six precious qualities, success is assured. These qualities contribute to the all-round prosperity of a man. All success attends on one with these six qualities. However, these qualities confront various difficulties from time to time. Just as a student has to face various tests these qualities also are subject to trials. Such trials should be regarded as stepping stones to one's high achievements. These trials are in the form of losses, troubles, pains, suffering and calumny. One has to overcome these troubles with courage and self-confidence and go ahead. Students in particular have to develop self-confidence. Without self-confidence, the six qualities cannot be acquired. In fact, self-confidence should be the life-breath of every person. Unfortunately, students today lack self-confidence and have become a prey to peacelessness because of their involvement in sensual pleasures. Students should develop self-confidence and embark on the journey of life with faith in God. Viswamitra, relying on his intelligence and physical strength, the power of his weapons, sought to wage a war with the sage Vasishta, who relied on the power of the Divine. Ultimately he realized the truth that his powers were of no avail against the power of the spiritual and, giving up his kingdom, undertook a severe penance. Physical prowess is no power at all. It is really a sign of weakness. All physical powers are indeed powerless. All worldly wealth is impermanent. Man today pursues these fleeting pleasures, forgetting his inherent divinity. CULTIVATE SELF-CONFIDENCE Students should cultivate self- confidence and manifest their divinity in their speech, their songs, their sports and all actions. However, occasionally the weakness in them may come out. For instance, when they succumb to troubles, are overcome by grief and are unable to face losses, they show their inner weakness. Students should confront such situations with fortitude. Be fearless. When you face difficulties with courage, you are bound to succeed. Hence, have confidence in yourself success in all areas of life. It may be asked: What is the benefit one derives from these six good qualities? The answer is that you will secure both worldly and spiritual benefits from these qualities. DUTIES AND RIGHTS Self-confidence is helpful to secure advancement of the individual, but it is not enough to promote the welfare of society or the world. A whetstone is used for sharpening a razor and not for making the stone smoother. Similarly, good qualities have to be fostered for refining one's nature. These qualities are essential like the different limbs in a body for its well-being as a whole. People should realize that human birth has been given to them to lead ideal lives. Good qualities enable one to lead a good life. But even for the good life a price has to be paid. That price is good conduct. This means that you derive the happiness that results from a good life only when you discharge your duties. Pleasures are of two kinds: temporary and lasting. Permanent happiness can be got only by performing your duties. First do your duty and then enjoy the fruits. Today people do not discharge their duties but wish to enjoy the fruits thereof. This cannot give them happiness. Everyone should realize that he is born to discharge various obligations and not to enjoy rewards for unrendered services. Man should realize that he has no claim to rights. His role is to carry out his duties. When he performs his duties, he will reap the rewards in due course. People today do not discharge their duties, but fight for their rights. Students! At the outset realize your duties and carry them out. Duty is God. Work is worship. It is foolish to expect rewards without performing one's duties. People are wasting their sacred human birth by neglecting their duties. Students should realize that neither youth, nor wealth, nor wife and children are permanent. Only truth and righteousness are everlasting. You must base your lives on truth and righteousness and should be prepared to face any challenges with courage and confidence. FIVE ADVISERS Everyone has five advisers in life. They are: Who, When, Where, What and How. Before undertaking any action, answers should be got for these five questions. When the correct answers are got, the action based on them will be the right one. People today act without concern for these factors. In this matter everyone can rely on his own judgment, using his powers of observation and discrimination. All the instruments for this purpose are available to everyone in his organs of perception and action. In every limb and organ there is a divine power. This divine potency is called Angirasa. The name is derived from the fact that the Divine is present in every limb (Anga) as an essence (Rasa). There is no need to search for the Divine outside yourself. You are Divine. All your powers are Divine potencies. Develop the conviction that whatever happens to you is for your good. Education is not solely for earning a living. Essentially it is a process of Self-realization. Without understanding his own Self, how can one understand the world or achieve anything worthwhile? Without Self-knowledge what is the scientific knowledge (Vijnaana) he can acquire? What is the value of scientific knowledge without wisdom? Hence one should acquire, along with scientific knowledge, discriminatory wisdom and awareness of Self (Atma-Jnaana). INNER MEANING OF FESTIVALS All Bharatiya festivals have esoteric significance. They have a deep spiritual meaning. Today's holy festival is related to the beginning of the apparent northward movement of the sun (Uttaraayana). The sun moves every month from one house of the zodiac to the next. Today the sun enters the house of Makara (Capricorn) and hence it is known as Makara Sankraanthi. This auspicious day heralds the conferment of many worldly and spiritual blessings on man. The Sankraanthi day is a witness to the prospective successes of man in many fields. The advent of Sankraanthi is glorified in a song which describes how farmers greet the sun and celebrate the gathering of harvest and enjoy the fruits of their labors. [Swami sang the song in Telugu]. Sankraanthi day marks the arrival in the farmers' houses of the grains which are the fruit of their labors. Sankraanthi is a holy festival for a worldly achievement. It is also a cherished day of rest in the cool atmosphere. Man needs days of rest after a period of hard work. Only then he can enjoy peace of mind. "Samyak kranthi iti Sankraanthi". Sankraanthi confers peace and heralds a welcome change. It brings out the inner joy in people. It effects a change in the life-style. It generates sacred thoughts. People today do not recognize these sacred changes. They are all immersed in worldly acquisitions and have no regard for higher things. They should instead seek every opportunity to cultivate good qualities. AVOID ENVY AND HATRED These good qualities are the six (mentioned at the beginning of the discourse). When these qualities are present, there will be no room for any bad tendencies to develop. Today, students suffer from two bad qualities, which are undermining their humanness. These are envy (Asooya) and hatred (Dwesham). These two are partners in evil. They are twin pests. A beautiful tree with rich foliage can be destroyed by a pest operating at its roots. Envy is such a pest. It converts even a happy, affluent person into a miserable being consumed by envy. In the Mahabharata. Krishna described to Arjuna how the Kauravas were consumed by envy towards the Pandavas even though they were enjoying the kingdom. [Bhagavan recited a poem in Telugu]. The demon of envy had seized hold of a good royal family and was ruining it. Students feel envious towards a boy scoring good marks. Envy rears its head when a boy is exceptionally intelligent. Some feel envious seeing a person who is well off and happy. Some tend to be envious of those who appear to be cheerful and confident. Envy has no limits. Students should see that they give no room for envy. Envy is a self- consuming malady. It is incurable. One who is always blissful will overcome all difficulties. The courageous man can face death without fear. GLORY OF SANKRAANTHI Students! You must understand that the Sankraanthi festival has come to remind you of your latent potentialities. People look forward to many worldly benefits also from this sacred occasion. It is also celebrated as a day when a sacred bull is taken from house to house while the owner recites the Ramayana story. [Swami sang a ballad describing the scene as it was in olden days]. The festival is also a joyous occasion for the young folk. The Sankraanthi festival is more important than any other festival because it is the day when the newly married son-in-law visits the home of his bride and is entertained lavishly. [Swami sang a poem describing how the son-in-law is honored by all the people in the village]. From ancient times such festivals have been a source of joy to the people of Bharat. Alas! Such festivals have gone and the people have taken to purely worldly pleasures. Of what avail are these pleasures? They are artificial. People have forgotten the heart and lost their peace in the bargain. UBIQUITOUS FEAR The whole world is ravaged by unrest and fear. [Swami song a song in which the poet mourns the plight of modern man, steeped in fear and misery]. Man is haunted by fear wherever he goes or stays. The only way out of this situation is for people to take refuge in God. The protective grace of the Divine will free men from fear. Where devotion and love exist together, there will be no room for fear. It is their absence that is the cause of fear everywhere. Students! In whatever you do, either studies, or games, in singing or in the jobs you may take up, see that you invest them with sacredness and purity. In the songs you sing, if there is no joy for the listener, what is the use of your singing? "Why sing if you cannot be melodious? What is the use of education without humility? Without a pure heart, why worship Siva? A heart without love is a block of stone". [Telugu Poem]. Fill your hearts with love. That love should be pure and genuine. Today mutual courtesies have become artificial and insincere. DIVINE LOVE Students should cultivate selfless love as one of the basic human values. Position, wealth and strength may come and go. Only divine love is permanent. Love is God. God is love. That is the truth, irrespective of nationality, race, or religion. Education should be divorced from jobs. Its purpose should be the acquisition of the highest knowledge (Vijnaana). That is the concept upheld by Bharatiya Culture. Students will be ideal citizens of the nation only when they develop Self-confidence and the feeling of spiritual oneness. Develop the spirit of sacrifice and become defenders of the nation's integrity and honor. You must strive to promote the welfare of society. Eschew ideas of "me" and "mine". You will then become one with the Divine. When you identify yourself with all, you can derive infinite joy. Once upon a time the demons were present in small numbers. But today it is difficult to tell who is a demon and who is a human being. Get rid of any trace of demonic qualities. Become human and then go towards divinity. Students! You have received today prizes for your success in sports. In the same manner, you should score successes in your lives in the outside world. BHAGAVAN'S EXAMPLE Develop the quality of forgiveness (Kshama) and refrain from harshness in speech. Sai is the example for you in this regard. All sorts of people indulge in calumny and criticism. Swami remains totally unaffected. Why should I follow their example? I must follow my own way. If I follow another I am a slave. Therefore, I never follow another's ways. I adhere firmly to what I deem as good. You must realize that if you give up forbearance and forgiveness, you will have no peace. I am always at peace. What is the reason? Because I am always patient. You must also remain likewise. Whatever any one may do to you, do not bother about it. What is it you lose on account of their behavior? If you resort to retaliation, you will worsen your condition. You have no idea either of your strength or your disability. You must face boldly such attacks and not allow yourself to get agitated over them. Students should win by their forbearance. Forbearance should be your life- breath and your ideal. By your fearlessness set an example to the world. DOUBLE BLESSING It is an auspicious coincidence that today you have both the prize distribution function and the holy festival of Sankraanthi. On this doubly blessed day you have to enjoy the sweetness of this combination, like the mixture of sugar and milk, and pledge yourselves to lead a dedicated life. The Upanishads have described the Lord as verily sweetness itself ("Raso vai saha")You have the sweet essence of kindness (Karunaarasa) in you. You are also filled with compassion and peace. Luckily you are free from grief ("Sokarasa"). You are free from bad qualities. Do not let them in. Foster the spirit of kindness. Treat life as a great game and be victorious in it by leading an ideal life.
Life is
a game, play it!
This is what you have to achieve . Therein lies your true human worth. Human life does not consist in getting married, bringing forth children and being caught up in that endless round. They are the routine of worldly existence. There is nothing wrong in it, but it should not be your ideal. Whatever you may do in ordinary life, base your life on the ideal. In the army, people are assigned different duties. But two things are common to everyone: parade (drill) and use of the gun. Likewise, two things are essential for students: love (Prema) and sacrifice (Thyaaga). Adhere to these two ideals. Love all. Be prepared for any kind of sacrifice. Without the spirit of sacrifice life has no meaning. For the sake of helping others or for promoting the welfare of society you must be ready even to give up your lives. To realize God, continually yearn for Him. You must constantly pray for the opportunity to experience God. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa used to feel sad if he did not share the vision of the Mother on any day. Pine for God at all times. When you get God's grace, all the planets will be in your favor. You must ceaselessly strive to win God's grace. Never give up the search. [Swami sang two songs to illustrate how the devotee should pray to God]. Do your duty and God's grace will follow. Pray from the depth of your heart for the well-being of all people.
[Bhagavan conferred His benediction on all the students and devotees and
concluded His discourse with the bhajan: "Prema muditha Manase Kaho".]
Triple Transformation: Sankranthis Call The sun
appeared cool and serene;
Embodiments of Love!
Bharatiya festivals are full of inner significance, imparting bliss, and not ostentatious shows. Every festival has a unique significance of its own.
The sun moves into a house of the zodiac every month. In a year he goes round the twelve houses of the zodiac. Of these, the main houses are four. The first is Makara Sankramana (the zodiacal sign of Capricorn ). The second is Karkataka (or Cancer). The third is Thula (Libra). The fourth is Mesha (Aries). Of these four, the most important is Makara (Capricorn). The entry of the sun into Capricorn has physical, ethical, social and moral significance.
THE NORTHWARD JOURNEY
From today the sun starts on his northward journey. What does the north signify? It is considered the direction leading to Moksha (Liberation). The sun is said to move towards Himaachala. Himaachala is made up of two words: Hima + Achala. Hima means that which is white as snow. Achala is that which is firm and unshakable. What is the place to which this description applies? It is the region of the heart. In a heart that is pure and steady, the sun of Buddhi (the intellect) enters. There is no need to undertake a journey in the external world. The Uttaraayana (or the Northward Journey) means turning the intellect inward, towards the heart. The bliss that is experienced within alone is true bliss for man. All other external and sensory pleasures are ephemeral. Only the Atmic principle is pure, permanent and infinite. This has been termed the abode of Moksha (Liberation). The journey to Moksha is called the quest for liberation.
Sankramana is the time when the inward journey towards a pure and unsullied heart is made. Just as the sun embarks on his northward journey, Sankraanthi is the day on which the intellect should be turned towards the Atma for Self-realization.
The Veda has declared the Uttaraayana as a sacred period. The great warrior Bhishma, lying on a bed of arrows, waited for 56 days for the advent of Uttaraayana to end his life. The puranas have stated that whoever passes away in Uttaraayana will attain liberation.
INNER MEANING OF FESTIVALS
In the movement of the sun from house to house in the Zodiac, the entry into Capricorn is most important. Capricorn is a sign of peace and contentment. According to the Gregorian calendar, Sankranthi begins on January 13 or 14. This confers a kind of mental and physical peace.
In this period, farmers and others laboring on the soil enjoy a period of rest. The farmers are at ease enjoying the fruits of their labors. Their granaries are filled with grains of all kinds. Farmers have no other period of rest. During this month, farmers enjoy peace of mind and body.
Few people understand the true significance of festivals like Sankranthi. Man cannot secure enduring bliss through physical pleasures. He has to discover that the source of this bliss is within himself. Sankranthi enables man to make this discovery, like a man who carrying his spectacles on his forehead searches for it everywhere and discovers to his joy that it has been with him all along.
The Divine is not anywhere else. It is enshrined in one's heart. Hence, the man who seeks the Divine within his heart redeems himself. He then attains liberation. All external spiritual exercises are of temporary value. They should be internalized to experience lasting bliss. All mental exercises also leave the heart unaffected. In the nine paths of devotion, beginning with listening to sacred things and ending with total surrender of the self (Aatma nivedanam), the last is the most important. After "Aatmanivedanam" (total surrender) there is no need for any other effort.
THE CALL TO SURRENDER
"Sankraanthi' gives the call for this total surrender. Dr. Subba Rao (in his speech prior to Swami's discourse) said that Sankraanthi is a kind of family festival. Yes. This is so. But the whole world is one family ("Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"). The festival relates to the entire world. It is not confined to one's kith and kin. Sankraanthi is related to the entire mankind. Whether people realize it or not, Sankraanthi promotes in one and all a feeling of happiness.
Sankraanthi promotes mental transformation. It illumines the minds of people. It induces the unfoldment of inner feelings. It brings about the manifestation of the invisible Atma within everyone. Sankraanthi is pregnant with such immense significance. It influences not only the mind but also the powers of nature. Nature is a projection of the mind. The world is rooted in the mind. (Manomoolam idam Jagath"). When the mind is turned towards the heart and the heart is filled with the Divine, the mind will cease to be a source of trouble. The mind is the master of the senses. When the senses are controlled the mind is under control. Only the master of the mind can attain Madhava (the Divine).
LESSONS FOR YOUTH
Young people should realize that the root cause of all their bad thoughts and bad actions is the food they consume. The nature of the food determines the state of the mind. Food does not mean merely what is eaten, but includes all that is received through the senses and stored in the mind. The mind, as Dr. Subba Rao said, has the power of attraction. It attracts impressions of all kinds from the external world. What do we find in every home today?
There is a television set. TV sets are installed in every room in the houses of the rich. From the moment television made its appearance, the mind of man has been polluted. Before the advent of TV men's minds were not so much polluted. Acts of violence were not so rampant previously. Today TV is installed in every hut. People watch the TV even while taking food. The result is that all the foul things seen on the TV are being "consumed" by the viewer. Concentration on the TV affects one's view of the world. The scenes, thoughts and actions displayed on the TV set fill the minds of the viewers. Unknowingly, agitation and ill-feelings enter their minds. In due course they take root and grow in the minds.
HARM DONE BY TV
Hence, while taking food, you should not discuss dreadful incidents. No room should be given to subjects which excite the mind. Silence should prevail during eating. Even sound waves enter us and affect our mind. Hence people should avoid seeing TV while taking food.
There is now what is called "Star TV". It is doing great harm to human life. The temporary satisfaction given by it is followed by lasting damage. It is like a sword coated with honey. As you lick the honey, the sword will cut your tongue.
Not Bharat alone, but the whole world is suffering from the consequences of TV. The world is racked by disorder, discord and frustration.
Men today are plagued by a whole battery of troubles from birth to death. How can they hope for happiness amidst this sea of troubles?
They have to change their vision, their thoughts, their words and their conduct. This is the meaning of "Sankramana". Unless you purify yourself, what can any number of Sankraanthis mean to you? You tasted sweet prasadam this morning. After some time, its taste is gone. It is not sweet food that is important. You must fill your life with holy thoughts. That is the purpose of sacred festivals.
FREEDOM AND HUMAN VALUES
Young people ask why they should not enjoy freedom as the fish, birds and animals do. They should understand that each of these creatures are enjoying freedom in accordance with their own sphere of life. Similarly man should enjoy freedom related to his human condition. You cannot call yourself a human being and lead the life of an animal. Enjoy the freedom of a human being. To be free like an animal is to become an animal yourself.
What is the freedom a man can enjoy? Man is governed by certain restraints. He has to adhere to truth. He has to follow righteousness. He has to cultivate love. He has to live in peace. He has to observe non-violence. Sticking to these five values, man can exercise his freedom. These five values are associated with the five elements which make up the cosmos. These five elements maybe used in different ways, but they are the basic substances constituting the universe. Beyond these five, there is only one sixth element, that is, the Antahkarana, the Inner Motivator, which is identical with the Atmic Principle.
To exercise freedom in its true sense, man has to respect the five basic values. It is in that freedom he will find free bliss.
NO IMITATION
In exercising freedom you should not merely imitate others. Imitation has become a deadly disease among modem youth, in matters of dress or other behavior. They should consult their conscience in all matters rather than copy others. Films and TV have totally demoralized the people. People have become completely oblivious to Divinity within them.
People today have lost the quality of forbearance. The sages in the past allowed even anthills to grow over them while they were immersed in penance. Today people cannot tolerate the slightest disturbance by a fly or a mosquito.
Young people should cultivate forbearance and tolerance. Without peace of mind there can be no happiness. Peace can be got only through sacred thoughts.
Youth today have lost confidence in themselves. They are affected by criticism leveled against them. They should see that if the criticism is justified, they should correct themselves. If it is not justified, they should ignore it. Taking myself as an example, I may tell you: if somebody somewhere says "Sai Baba has a mop of hair" I accept it, as it is true. If someone were to say to my face, "Sai Baba is bald", I will ignore it, as it is not true. Why should I bother to quarrel with him? If you are criticized for a fault that is not in you, you can ignore it even if the whole world joins in the criticism.
When we pronounce "Santhi, Santhi, Santhihi", three times, it is a prayer for peace of body, mind and the spirit. Though people have been mouthing this prayer for thirty years, they have not found peace, because they have not enshrined peace in their hearts. They must learn to speak sweetly and softly.
STUDENTS' DUTY
Students! Apart from educational programs, do not look at TV at all, especially while taking food. Concentrate on the work on hand, whether it be eating or anything else.
You are observing many things in the world today. You must see how you can make use of your knowledge to make the world better. Students (boys and girls) must pledge themselves to rid the world of its ills. Earning incomes is not a great thing. To ensure peace and prosperity in the world is the highest achievement. You have to strive for peace in the nation, starting with peace in the home.
Above all, unity is important. Young people should promote unity and serve the nation. They should be a power for peace wherever they go. Educated young men should be examples of discipline and good behavior. Revere parents and elders, love the Motherland and uphold its greatness.
Sankraanthi should be hailed as the harbinger of unity and peace. This was the immemorial message of the Vedas. "Let us live together in harmony and strive together''.
[Bhagavan concluded His discourse with the bhajan: "Bhajana binaa sukhaa santhi nahi"]
The Sacred Message of a Holy Festival The Sun
appeared serenely peaceful
Embodiments of the Divine Atma! Yad Drisyam Tannasyam (That which is perceived is perishable). Everything associated with the phenomenal world is continually changing. That which is subject to change is impermanent. What is unchanging is the eternal. By attaching excessive value to the changing things of the world, man is making himself remote from the changeless and eternal Reality. Men should endeavour to realise the eternal and unchanging Atma (Omni-Self). In a year, the Sun passes through the 12 houses of the Zodiac in 12 months. The Sun's entry into each house of the Zodiac is described as a Sankaramana. Kraanthi means change. Sankraanthi means a sacred change. The Sun's entry into every house in the Zodiac is not considered as equally holy. What, then is the reason for giving special importance and sacredness to Makara Sankraman the entry of the Sun into (Makara) Capricorn? Besides the physical qualities associated with the Sun's movement into each house of the Zodiac, there is an inner spiritual significance relating to the Makara Sankramana. The Sun's entry into Capricorn takes place in mid-passage between the months of Margasirsha and Pushyam. In the Bhagavad Gita, Sri Krishna has declared: "Among the months I am the month of Margasirsha." The Margasirsha month is the crown among the 12 months. What is the reason? Among the planets of the solar system, the Sun is the presiding deity. Without the Sun the life process in the world will cease. During the month of Margasirsha, the world experiences the abundance of the harvested food grains, which sustain and confer joy on the people. Every farmer's granary is filled with grain. The weather during the season is cool and pleasant. It is an appropriate time for enjoying peaceful rest. It is the time when man is free from burdens of daily toil and can devote his time to enjoyment with his children and his cattle. However, what is the connection between these physical comforts and the spiritual significance of this season? Man is a lover of the beautiful. He rejoices at the sight of good food. It may be asked whether such joy, which he experiences is related solely to physical things or has it an inner spiritual basis? It is not the body that experiences joy. It is the Atma (the Indwelling Spirit). The joy that one derives from looking at others is not related to the body but the Atma. What the eye sees, the ear hears, the mind thinks, or the heart feels, all of them are experiences of the Atma. The senses are only instruments. Every experience is a reflection of the Inner Being. Only when this truth is recognised will it be possible to comprehend to some extent the nature of the Divine
EXAMPLE OF THE SUN GOD For all actions, the inspirer, the performer and the experiencer is the Sun God. For man, caught up in a meaningless existence and going through an endless round of futile activities, the Sun-God stands out as the exemplar of tireless and selfless service. He enjoys no respite from work. He is above praise and censure. He carries on his duties with absolute equanimity. Everything he does is only for the well-being of the earth and not for causing any harm. It is only man's senses which prove helpful or harmful to him. When man submits to his senses they become his enemies. When man masters the senses they become his friends. Friends and enemies result from the strength or weakness of men. Earlier, a student in his speech mentioned that to Vibhishana, who believed in God, Rama was a friend. To the unbelieving Ravana, Rama became an enemy. Hence, man's happiness or sorrow stems from his belief or disbelief.
FAITH LEADS TO GOD The primary motto for man should be Faith (Trust). The ancients declared: "Believe and live." Without Faith you cannot live happily. Only when you have the belief that one is your mother you develop love for her. Likewise, a woman loves a baby only when she feels he is her child. In the same manner, the recognition of the Divine arises from Faith.
Where there is Faith, there is Love. All that is taught or learnt today appears to consist of pompous verbiage concerning the external world. Doubtless, there is a great deal of talk about Divinity and Spirituality. But one cannot notice in these preachers any sacred mark of Truth, Love or Peace associated with Godly men. Are men to be esteemed for the clothes they wear, the speeches they make or the punditry they display? No. The only person worthy of esteem as a wise man is the one whose actions correspond to his thoughts and words. The Divine judges men by their thoughts and motives. God sees only the inner purity of man's motives and not his external appearance or the power and pelf he possesses. Valmiki, Nanda, Kuchela, Gajendra (the Lord of Elephants), the child Dhruva, the illiterate Sabari, Vidura and Hanuman are all examples of beings who enjoyed God's grace only through their devotion and not because of birth, wealth, scholarship, or any other accomplishment (Swami recited a poem bearing on this theme). What is Bhakthi (Devotion)? Devotion is directing one's sacred love towards God. Man gets bound by his attachment through egoism to the transient things of the world. Your primary task is to discharge your duty. This does not mean renouncing worldly life or your obligations to your family. Keep your mind serene and unruffled. All the changes affect the external. They do not affect the internal experience. Entertain always good thoughts and feelings. In this connection, an incident from Jesus's life may serve as a good example. Jesus saw in the market place a woman who was being stoned by people around her as one who had gone astray. Jesus approached them and said: "Oh People! you are all persecuting this woman for some physical misconduct. Think how many sins you are committing mentally. Whoever has not committed such a sin even mentally, let him cast the first stone. All others have no right to throw stones at her!" People go on judging who is a sinner and who is a pure person, but they should enquire within themselves how far they are sinners or meritorious. Everyone must try to keep his mind free from bad thoughts. The Sankraanthi Festival is intended to make people embark on this exercise in transformation.
SYMBOLISM OF SANKRAANTHI CELEBRATION In the Dwapara Yuga the cowherds and cowherdesses used to experience boundless joy in the presence of Krishna, forgetting themselves in their devotion to the Lord. On Sankraanthi Day they used to employ cow-dung as a sacred means of cleansing purposes. They demonstrated also the inner significance of the Sankraanthi celebration. They placed three balls of cow-dung in front of their houses, fixing three pumpkin flowers on their top and went round singing and dancing in adoration of Krishna. What is the significance of these three balls of cow-dung? People are inclined to despise cow-dung. But in the eyes of the Gopikas they were sacred. In olden days, people used to sprinkle water mixed with cow-dung in front of their houses. The cow-dung helped to destroy the bacteria in the atmosphere. The cow-dung was considered a symbol of health and happiness. The first cow-dung ball represented Krishna who was worshipped as Gopala (the protector of cows). Krishna was adored as bestower of joy and health. The second cow-dung ball was placed as a symbol of the Govardhana Hill which Krishna lifted and thereby demonstrated his divinity. The third cow-dung ball symbolised the cow, which is the source of health and joy for the people as the giver of milk. Gopala, Govardhana, and Go (the cow) were worshipped in this manner. Among vegetables the pumpkin has a place of honour as the largest in size. The Gopikas looked upon the pumpkin as a symbol of large heartedness. Hence, pumpkins were offered as fitting gifts on Sankraanthi Day. What is the gain from this offering? The pumpkin does not rot quickly. It can be preserved for a long period. Any number of edible preparations can be made from it. It can also be used in combination with many other vegetables. Because of its distinct qualities, the offer of a pumpkin also meant making an offer of one's virtues.
SANKRAANTHI: THEN AND NOW Today such a holy festival has been converted into a day for the enjoyment of jaggery and til, totally missing its inner significance. People are immersed in the darkness of self-indulgence. Rice cooked with jaggery is a special preparation for Sankraanthi day. What is the reason for this? In the old days, this sweet was prepared to celebrate the gathering of the harvest and after the cows had been fed with the sweet rice, it was scattered over the fields. On the third day, all the cattle used to be decorated and taken round the bazaars in procession. For this reason, the festival was called in Tamil Nadu Mattuppongal - The festival of the cattle. The bull is much more than a mere quadruped. As the vehicle of Siva, it has an honoured place in the Siva temple as Nandi. Its eyes are always directed towards the Lord in the Sanctum. The Nandi is worshipped before one enters the sanctum. The Sankraanthi festival should be regarded as the day on which man turns his vision towards God. Man's life may be compared to a stalk of sugarcane. Like the cane, which is hard and has many knots, life is full of difficulties. But these difficulties have to be overcome to enjoy the bliss of the Divine, just as the sugarcane has to be crushed and its juice converted into jaggery to enjoy the permanent sweetness of jaggery. Enduring bliss can be got only by overcoming trials and tribulations. Gold cannot be made into an attractive jewel without its being subjected to the process of melting in a crucible and being beaten into the required shape. When I address devotees as Bangaaru (Golden one), I am considering you as a precious being. But only by going through the vicissitudes of life with forbearance can you become an attractive jewel. You should not allow yourself to be overwhelmed by difficulties. Develop self-confidence and have firm faith in God. With unshakable faith, dedicate yourselves to the service of your fellowmen and lead exemplary lives. Today the Sun-God begins his northward journey. It is the beginning of Uttarayana - the northward journey. The noble and heroic warrior Bhishma waited for 56 days so that he could give up his life in Uttaraayana.
DO YOUR DUTY LIKE THE SUN The Sun in entering on his northward journey, hailed the Himalayas in the north as the beauteous abode of Lord Siva. The heart should be regarded as the abode of the Lord and the vision should be turned to experience the Divine. The human heart itself symbolises the Himalayas as the abode of purity and peace. The Sun's northward journey is a pointer to the path man should take to realise God. The Sun is the supreme example of selfless and tireless service. The world cannot survive without the Sun. Life on earth is possible only because of the Sun. The Sun teaches man the lesson of humble devotion to duty, without conceit. The Sun is the supreme example for everyone that he should do his duty with devotion and dedication. Doing one's duty is the greatest Yoga, as pointed out by Krishna in the Gita. Let your actions and thoughts be good. You will then experience the Bliss Divine. Sankraanthi is intended to bring about various changes in man's attitude so that he may sanctify his life. It is a festival not intended for Bharatiyas alone. Its message has a meaning for everyone in the world. It has a message for people of all climes, creeds and countries. Kraanthi (change) and shanthi (peace) both reside in the heart. You need not search for them in the outside world. Discover them within you. This is your duty. Serve your parents and society. Lead a Godly life, dedicating all your actions to God. Live in Love!
[Bhagavan concluded His discourse with the bhajan, "Prema muditha manase
Kaho: Rama, Rama, Ram!"]
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