Inspiring Talks of Gurudev Sivananda
23rd May, 1949
A DAY’S GAINS
After hardly five hours of rest, the Ashram was buzzing with activity at 4:30 a.m. this morning. A mild OM at the threshold brought Mrs. Mohanlal Saksena (wife of India’s Rehabilitation Minister) and others who were staying with her, out of the chamber of the Goddess of Slumber. The lady and the children looked extremely fresh after what a city-dweller might have considered hardly a nap of a few hours.
The morning university class began with Kirtan, Guru Stotras, Shanti Patha and prayers. Ere the mind could have sufficient leisure to fall back into its favourite grooves, Swami Krishnanandaji began his learned exposition of Panchadasi, dinning into the ears of the listeners: One alone is true; Truth is thy own Self: that Truth should be meditated upon constantly forgetting the wrong notion that the body is the Atman. Close on his heels follow Sri Ramamurthy’s Karma Yoga lecture, interestingly interspersed with stories, similes and illustrations, concisely and precisely telling the Sadhaka how he should behave in this realm of duality—for, by this time the rays of the sun have begun to illumine to the eyes of the mortal the vast creation of multiplicity and this talk on Karma Yoga gives the most timely reminder that ‘Even this is the Virat Swarupa of the Lord: it need not frighten you or bewilder you: serve without egoism: do your duty: realise the Self through all this.’ (On alternate days Sri Swami Chidanandaji delivers his inspiring lectures on Raja Yoga. Here again one is taught to feel that the perception of each external object, now gradually coming into the Sadhaka’s vision as morning advances, can be controlled and sublimated by an inner process of control of mind, that culminates in Samadhi revealing the true nature of the Self.) From Unity to diversity: from diversity back to Unity again. That is the process.
Nor should one imagine that the students are ever kept in the dizzy heights of Vedanta and that the layman who listens to these discourses could sink into Tamas, unable to rise into Satwa. As soon as the Raja Yoga class is over, Vishnu Swamiji will call ‘attention’ and begin the Yogic drill.
All done sitting: Yoga Mudra, Ushtasan, lateral twists of the spine, Paschimottanasan, an elementary physical culture, Uddiyana, Agnisara, Kapalabhati, Bhastrike (slow, internal and rapid), Sitali, Sitkari and eye-exercises. This round of exercises saves (those so inclined) from relapsing into Tamas, and adds to the Satwa of others.
These are immediately followed by Siva’s inspiring Kirtans and songs—each word pregnant with the Self-realisation of the sage, thrilling, elevating and tranquillising. One is inclined to feel at this stage that all the previous items were preparatory stages to this grand culmination. Maha Mantra Kirtan, Maha Vakya Kirtan, Soham Mantra Kirtan, Gita Kirtan, Yoga-Vasistha Kirtan—it is then that you are thankful for the bending and twisting and breathing that you had just passed through, for they have enabled you to enjoy the thrill of the Kirtan and attune yourself to Siva, by driving away the Tamas that might still have been lingering in the body and mind. The final OM chanting enables you to feel actually the unreality of externals and the Reality of the Kutastha. With a prayer for the peace, prosperity and health of all (for after the spiritual drill in the morning, you are in a pure state with a powerful Will which you are taught by Gurudev to use for the good of all), the class concludes. Then follow individual or group Suryanamaskara, Asana training and practice.
Needless to say that Mrs. Saksena and children enjoyed this morning class immensely, indeed.
Later Mrs. Saksena and party were shown the Photo-Phonics Department and the Sivananda Art studio. They (especially the children) witnessed with great delight the movie films projected through the editing equipment.
Soon after this the Yoga Museum. The significance of the arrangement, the meaning of the composition of the museum, etc., were succinctly explained to the party.
What a fund of knowledge does one gain in such a short time!
No wonder that a visitor remarked after last night’s Satsang: ‘I have never attended such a wonderful Satsang meeting as this!’ Even during the night Satsang the mind is never allowed a moment to stray away. Beginning with Kirtans, Bhajans, study of the Gita, Upanishad and Tulasi Ramayana, the evening programme includes a lecture by Swami Chinmayanandaji on the Upanishads and concludes with Siva’s Kirtans and Bhajans (in English, Hindi and Sanskrit). Siva often distributes a few of his spiritual vitamin tablets in short crisp and sweet poems, each one with a high concentration of spiritual truth, humour, and practical instructions! After Siva’s Kirtan, there is OM-chanting, Maha Mrityunajaya Japa, Arati, and Peace Chant.
Someone described this as Indra Sabha. And, aptly so, for there is every kind of instrumental music, many vocal Bhajanists hailing from various parts of the country singing the Bhajans of various great devotees. A wonderful mixture of indescribably ingredients, sweet, pleasant and God-intoxicating.
INDIAN PARLIAMENT AT ANANDA KUTIR
The sun was still young, and a calm pervaded the atmosphere near the Ashram. The tranquillity of the Abode of Bliss, with Mother Ganges perennially humming the Pranava, seemed to reflect the Peace Within of the Lord of Ananda Kutir (our Siva) who calmly and silently was going through the letters, signing them, and checking the addresses on book-packets.
It was a calm before a spiritual storm.
Dr. Gairola, the Tehri Minister of Health, came in and bowed to Siva.
‘Swamiji, OM Namo Narayanaya. Has not Sri Mohanial Saksena come in yet?’
‘No. Is he coming?’
‘Yes, Swamiji. He had promised to be here now and asked us to pick him up. By the way, our Congress President, Rashtrapati Pattabhi Sitaramiah, is here along with some other Congress leaders.’
‘Please ask them to come to the Ashram.’
The Minister, with the help of a couple of Ashramites, at once brought in the Rashtrapati. Thakur Krishnan Singhji, Education Minister of Tehru, and Sri Sampurnanandji, Education Minister of the U.P., and Sri Paripurnanand were also with the Rashtrapati.
Even as he was entering the D.J. Hall, after being received outside it by Siva himself, the Rashtrapati was attracted by the Suryanamaskar and Yoga Asan Charts. The party seated themselves in the Hall, facing the Ganges and the Himalayas. First, books started slowing around to them, Siva silently selecting for each one the books that would be most welcome to him.
(Messengers had gone about fetching tea, fruits, sweets etc.!)
The Rashtrapati’s first remarks were: ‘Swamiji, the more we learn, the ‘smaller’ we seem to become. What I have learnt and experienced during these seventy years has, I think, enabled me to begin life. I personally believe in Samskaras and that nothing is lost.’
‘Yes, yes, you continue the evolution in the next birth.’
By the time the Rashtrapati had obtained two sets of Suryananmaskar Photographs, and they had all taken their seats for the Prasad and coffee that were awaiting them, another party consisting of—Sri Mohanial Saksena, Union Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation, Sri M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Sri T. Prakasam, ex-Premier of Madras, Sri Prof. N.G. Ranga, A Congress leader, Sri Thirumala Rao, M.P., had also come in.
Books and Prasad flowed competing with the Ganga. The Rashtrapati was astonished.
‘You seem to have a Kamadhenu here,’ he exclaimed.
Sri Sampurnanandaji replied to him: ‘It is all the glory of Swamiji’s Tapasya. What cannot Tapasya achieve?’
Now the Parliament was in full session at Ananda Kutir. Discussion, questioning, heckling, humour—all were given full, informal play. One Minister vied with the other in claiming that he was keenly interested in the visit to the Ashram. Sri Sampurnanandaji was emphatic: ‘I am in charge of the Ecclesiastic Portfolio. Both Hinduism as well as Christianity are my concern. So, I have come to visit this great religious institution.’ Tehri Ministers replied to this with a smile: for they have always considered the Ashram their own. To Sri Mohanial Saksena the Ashram is his own home and the abode of one whom he adores and admires.
As these discussions were going on, Sri Thirumala Rao quietly slipped away and joined Siva for a private talk and a ‘closer view’ of one whom he had always admired from a distance.
The debate was in full swing. Ultimately everyone concluded that they had all done the wisest thing:
‘It is a God-given opportunity for all of us.’
Prof. Ranga’s gaze was attracted by the Telugu books in the almirah. ‘Doctor Saheb! There are Telugu translations of Swamiji’s works also.’
Calmly, and with all the seriousness of a seasoned Parliamentarian, Sri Thirumal Rao rejoined: ‘Why, Swamiji is an All-India figure; nay, his influence has reached beyond India’s shores, too. He is a world-figure now.’
Someone noticed that Sri Mohanial Saksena was merely witnessing the table. When the cup of coffee was taken near him, he quietly said: ‘Today is Ekadashi. I am fasting.’
For a high-ranking Minister to say that! No wonder. He is a great admirer of Siva, one of whose main teachings is ‘Fast on Ekadashi.’
After the discussion on the merits and glory of Ekadashi Vrata among the members and Ministers was over with, the Rehabilitation Minister, adamant in his resolve….
Siva whispered to us: ‘We shall do Kirtan for a minute.’ Sri Thirumal Rao at once caught up with the idea and made the announcement. Siva began with OM thrice. Immediately Sri Ananthasayanam Ayyangar sat cross-legged in his chair, in the customary Indian fashion while praying.
‘Hare Rama’ Maha Mantra, quickly followed by the Song of Admonition. Silent nodding of the head with half-closed eyes while Siva sang….
Time sweeps away Kings and Barons
Where is Yudhisthira, where is Asoka?
Where is Valmiki, where is Shakespeare?
Where is Napoleon, where is Sivaji?
Can you expect real Santi if you waste
Your time in cards and cinemas,
In novels newspapers?
The leaders were suddenly awakened to the realities of life when Siva thundered….
When your throat is choked at the time of death, who will help you for your Salvation?
The Rashtrapati, who was till then reclining against a pillar, suddenly sat up, as if to ask: ‘What is it you are saying?’
Then followed instruction: ‘The Song of A Little’.
Later Gita Kirtan, Upanishad Kirtan and Yoga-Vasishtha Kirtan.
Jeeve Kalpana, Jagat Kalpana,
All is Kalpana, Deergha Swapna
Sri Prakasham in a perfectly prayerful mood, nodded assent.
Then Soham Kirtan ending with…
Sarvesham Swasti Bhavatu
Sarvesham Shantir Bhavatu
Sarvesham Purnam Bhavatu
Sarvesham Mangalam Bhavatu
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah Sarve Santu
Niramayah, Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu
Maa Kaschit Duhkha Bhag Bhavet
Om Santih Santih Santih
Asato Maa Sat Gamaya
Tamaso Maa Jyotir Gamaya
Mrityor Maa Amritam Gamaya
OM Purnamadah Purnamidam Purnaat Purnamudachyate,
Purnasya Purnamaadaaya Purnamevaavasishyate
Om Santih Santih Santih
This conclusion of the Kirtan impressed all, for that indicated the true Jnani’s attitude ‘Savra Bhuta Hite Ratah’ (devoted to the welfare of all.)
As the party was leaving the Ashram, Padmanabhanji came up with this battery of cameras. The whole gathering formed into a group. Click….click. ‘Thank you’—bowed P.
Someone remarked: ‘All these cameras, too?’
The Rashtrapati was ready-witted: ‘Swamiji has developed a modern Ashram on our ancient ideals.’
25th May, 1949
MAHARAJAH OF SITAMAU
Siva was having his lunch when the Sitamau Rajah was seen coming towards the Ashram in a boat. He had sent word previously that he would be coming to Ananda Kutir today to have Siva’s Darshan. Even without finishing the lunch, Siva got up and walked up to the Ghat to receive the Maharajah.
Straightaway the party wended its way to the Mandir. They sang the Kirtan in chorus, led by Swami Chidanandaji. The Raja Saheb offered bael leaves and flowers to Lord Viswanath in great devotion and sang a few inspiring hymns in praise of the Lord. Coming out of the temple, he bowed to Siva and said:
‘I desire this one boon from the Lord and from your holiness. May devotion ever dwell in my heart. May I strive to become a true Bhakta. May I ever have Smaran of the Lord, my Lord Rama.’
The Raja Saheb then went round the temple. He noticed the big marble slab on the walls of the sanctum sanctorum put up to commemorate the inauguration of the Viswanath Mandir Moola Dhana with a generous contribution of ten thousand rupees which he had made in memory of Her late Highness, the Maharani of Sitamau.
‘And, even this act was made by me only with this one motive at heart. May I have devotion to Lord Rama. I felt that Swamiji’s Ashram Mandir founded here through Swamiji’s Sat Sankalpa would fulfil that purpose. The worship done here would bring about the peace of the departed soul and our Kalyan also.’
Raja Saheb believes only in devotion, though, as he said while Chidanandaji was explaining the Yoga Museum, he had mastered the Prasthanatrayi. ‘I want only devotion. I do not want Mukti even. I fully believe in the meaning of the stanza….
Abhimanam surapanam gauravam rouravam samam
Pratishtha sukrivishta trayam tyaktva bhajhetu
Abhimana is like Surapanam (drinking of toddy): respect in the worldly sense is equal to Raurava hell: getting established in name and fame is equal to a pig’s faecal matter: one should renounce the three, and then worship Hari.
Siva greatly admired the Raja Saheb’s humility.
Milk and fruits were brought. But the Raja Saheb went on repeating: ‘I have come here only to receive Swamiji’s blessings that I may have devotion to Lord Rama.’ He then touched Siva’s feet and departed.
Save later said to us:
‘My children! See the Raja Saheb’s humility. And, his thirst for devotion to His lotus feet. That should be a Sadhak’s motto.’
‘It is no doubt true that Bhakti Sadhana consists in remembering the Lord constantly. Very few people will be able to do this and this alone, without doing anything else. See the Raja Saheb himself. He has been a student of Jnana Marga: he is well read in the Upanishads, Gita and Brahma Sutras. And, remember that he has been carrying on the business of a State. He has been maintaining his own family. Side by side, he has been carrying on his devotional practices. That is the secret.
‘Karma Yoga should be nicely blended with Jnana and Bhakti. Do not be frightened if during the course of your work you sometimes forget the Lord, your mind stops the repetition of His name, and you seem to lose the Bhava. God is the Antaryamin. He will understand inner motive. You need not tell Him what you are thinking of. He will give you a greater abundance to devotion and Bhav. Early in the morning and at night say unto the Lord in prayer: ‘Oh, Lord, whatever I do is your worship only. Please be gracious enough to accept.’ This synthesis leads one to the goal very quickly.’
26th May, 1949
FULL-BELLIED PRAYERS
The Sadhu Bhojan arranged by Sri Gauri Prasadji of Swarg Ashram was in progress. Sri Narayanaswamiji was continuously singing some Stotras and Mantras. Siva asked Atmanandaji to recite a few hymns. The meals were over and the Manager said: ‘Ganga Mayya ki Jai’. Siva’s voice rang forth from his seat: ‘Ohji, wait a bit.’ All resumed their seats.
Siva asked an old South Indian woman to sing a few Tamil songs in praise of the Lord, of Vairagya, and of devotion. A South Indian young lad well versed in Hindi sang a Hindi Bhajan. This was followed by another Tamil verse. Siva then prompted a Punjabi mother to sing a Punjabi Bhajan. Every time someone finished, the Manager will say ‘Ganga Mayya ki Jai’, and every time Siva would stay the dispersal of the crowd. Last came the turn of a Marathi mother. ‘Sangitla, some Bhajan of Tukaram.’
The ‘Satsang’ in the dining hall lasted longer than the dinner itself. The diners who assembled at 10.30 dispersed at 11.45. In sophisticated society, too, dinners last that long. But, what a difference! When you are joyous, when you have satisfied your appetite, when you are ‘full’, you should utter the Lord’s name and sing His praise.
Instead, people waste these precious moments in idle gossip and chit-chatting. The mind during that period is calm and ‘satisfied’, and fresh desires and longing have not risen yet. That is the best time to sing His name and remember Him. That is the secret which Siva has revealed today. May all hosts take the hint.
LADDU AND MUD-BALLS
‘Atmanandaji, please take some Laddus’….(Siva gave him some)….‘Do we have the same Bhavana when we look at this as when we look at mud-balls?’
‘Swamiji, we have heard that they are the same: we have an intellectual understanding. But, how difficult to see one in the other?’
‘And, yet, people wish to rise at once to Vedantic Sadhana. They do not want Bhakti. They repeat ‘Sivoham’ and ‘Soham’. Till the Sadhaka actually feels and sees that Laddu is a mud-ball, he is not an Adhikari for Vedantic Nididhyasana. It is good to study Vedanta and to try to raise up the Brahmakara Vritti: but the Sadhaka should also engage himself in Nishkamya Karma Yoga and Bhakti, too.’
SONG OF ITIES
Siva was in full form this evening during the Satsang. He read the humorous poems from his ‘Vedanta Jyoti’. People often roared with laughter. Then he sang a couple of Tamil songs; then Hindi Bhajans, at the same time playing on the Harmonium. Then he suddenly sprang up and roared:
‘The Lord has enumerated in the Gita several virtues which every Sadhaka should develop to perfection if he wants to attain Mukti. Most of the virtues depend upon one another. Find out the quality that you lack; consciously develop it. Introspect. Analyse. Eradicate the opposite evil quality.’
He sang the Song.
‘If you sit at a particular place and at a particular time for meditation daily, the meditative mood will come automatically.
‘Simplicity. Have always the motto: Simple living and high thinking. Gandhiji was revered throughout the world even though he was clad but in a loin cloth. The fullness of awakened divinity should shine through you. Merely putting on beautiful clothes will not do.
‘When inside these is dirt and ugliness, merely putting on costly dress is sheer hypocrisy. You try to deceive yourself and God. Clean the heart; purify it. Then people will worship you.’
Siva noticed a Rishikesh Sadhu who disapproves of the use of English language, sitting in the audience.
‘Oh, Swamiji Maharaj, (In Hindi) I am only repeating what the Lord has said in the Gita. You read it in Sanskrit. I have put it in English. The idea is the same. The purpose is the same. Only a difference in mode of expression, in a superficiality—the language.’
‘English also will be the common language in India for another 20 or 25 years: afterwards also it will be one of the main languages here. People will want to go overseas for higher education and research. Man is not satisfied with a little income: nor with a little knowledge. He wants to earn thousands and is eager to expand his knowledge.’
Then he looked at us. We had been asked to keep ourselves in readiness to sing Nama Ramayan.
I KNOW WHEN YOU SHOULD BEGIN
‘No, not now. You should be ever prepared. When I say ‘begin’, then only can you begin. But, be always prepared.’
The remarks referred to a song, but I take it to be a command for the entire song of life. A Guru knows when his disciple should do what, when he is fit for particular Sadhanas. Disciples often delude themselves into a belief that they are fit for Nirvikalpa Samadhi and that their Guru is obstructing their progress by insisting on work and worship of God. They run here and there, lose themselves in the dense jungle of doubts and difficulties and ultimately perish. Beloved Sadhaka, stick to the lotus feet of the Guru and do his bidding. He knows best and you will attain your goal.
Siva then sang Kirtans, interspersed with instructions.
SOLUTION FOR WARS
‘You should sing with Bhav. Sraddha, faith and a belief born of conviction are necessary. Husband pretends to love his wife; wife pretends to love her husband. There is no real love at heart. Similarly, between father and son; between friends, too. Real love is the heart’s love. Develop this divine love. That is the only way to end quarrels, riots and wars.’
SPEND THE NIGHT IN YOUR OWN KUTIR
Sri Swami Suk Devanandaji who has a big Ashram on the other side of the Ganges—one of the oldest friends and admirers of Siva—had been invited to the Satsang today. He had delivered an inspiring discourse on the necessity during Kali-Yuga of the performance of Karma Yoga. The assembly dispersed, and Sukdevanandaji could not get the motor-boat to go across.
Chidanandaji was offering the guests bed, etc. to spend the night in the Ashram. Sri S. wanted to go via Lakshmanjhula. Siva at once saw the point.
‘Yes, that is a very good idea. Even though it means additional strain and walking a couple of miles and loss of an hour’s sleep, you will have peaceful rest afterwards.’
This is an object lesson for all Sanyasins.
CONSERVE PRANA: INSPIRE, LET THEM PRACTISE
A member of S.’s party acquiesced and added: ‘Yes, Swamiji. Further, Swami Sukdevanandaji has to attend the morning class in his Ashram, too.’
Siva said: ‘Sukdevanandaji! You have lectured enough: worked enough. Please take care of your health. If you go on lecturing like this for hours on end each day, you are wasting your life-breath. You should simply inspire people; then they should practise. Later on, all that you need do is to silently watch your disciples’ progress. Occasionally, you can deliver discourses, too. They should practise and realise themselves.’ It was friendly advice from sage Siva that went straight to the heart of Sr. Swami S.
DECIDE: DO IT AT ONCE
Another member of Sukdevanandaji’s party raised some objection, and suggested that they might all spend the night at Ananda Kutir.
‘Swamiji, once you decide, stick to it. Sukdevanandaji is going; you all follow him. Stick to your decisions. Do not waver.’
How many of us fail in this respect! This tenacious adherence to decision is SIVA: and that is one of the secrets of his great achievements.
GIRL ABANDONS PARENTS AND FOLLOWS SIVA
Thus came to a glorious conclusion the day’s function arranged in memory of the late Sri Gyaneshwari, a grand-daughter of Judge Saheb, in whose memory a Kutir had been built at the Ashram. G’s mother, too, was present during the whole day’s proceedings. She was greatly pleased.
‘Gyaneshwari was a saintly soul. Her devotion to Krishna was equalled only by Mira’s. She was Mira herself. She left just when we were arranging for her wedding, to join her Lord. It was she herself who later, (after she had passed away), asked Judge Saheb to build a Kutir for her in Swamiji’s Ashram so that she could be always near him. It was she herself who had arranged all these functions which have drawn Swamiji’s grace upon her departed soul.
She wanted to follow Swamiji. She has fulfilled her own wish.’
THEN AND NOW IN KASHMIR
A Professor from Kashmir who has migrated to India (Punjab) has come with his family. Siva at once recognised him as one whom he had known during his (Siva’s) Kirtan-tour in Kashmir.
UNPRECENDENTED CROWD AND SIVA’S AGAD BHUM
‘Swamiji, how well do we all remember your famous Agad Bhum song and dance. In spite of all that has happened since those days of peace, plenty and prosperity, the memory is still fresh in us of the eager throngs of men and women and children who would sit through whole days listening to your sweet, stirring Kirtans. I was only a small boy then, but I have the most vivid memory of this one thing in my life.’
His father, who had listened on with approval to his son’s talk, now put in his: ‘And, what gatherings! Swamiji, in all my life in Kashmir I have never again seen such a mass of humanity assembled together.’
I was inquisitive: ‘Did the figure run to thousands?’
‘Thousands?’—the old man felt disappointed. ‘Not less than ten thousands every day; and that looked like a sea of heads that swung to and fro in the fashion of waves, to the tune of Swamiji’s Kirtan. It was a sight for the gods.’
The old woman I could positively see was lost in a reverie: the picture of Kashmir, then, stirred and roused up by Siva’s Kirtan, perhaps floated before her eyes—and she was satisfied within herself.
23rd May, 1949
A DAY’S GAINS
After hardly five hours of rest, the Ashram was buzzing with activity at 4:30 a.m. this morning. A mild OM at the threshold brought Mrs. Mohanlal Saksena (wife of India’s Rehabilitation Minister) and others who were staying with her, out of the chamber of the Goddess of Slumber. The lady and the children looked extremely fresh after what a city-dweller might have considered hardly a nap of a few hours.
The morning university class began with Kirtan, Guru Stotras, Shanti Patha and prayers. Ere the mind could have sufficient leisure to fall back into its favourite grooves, Swami Krishnanandaji began his learned exposition of Panchadasi, dinning into the ears of the listeners: One alone is true; Truth is thy own Self: that Truth should be meditated upon constantly forgetting the wrong notion that the body is the Atman. Close on his heels follow Sri Ramamurthy’s Karma Yoga lecture, interestingly interspersed with stories, similes and illustrations, concisely and precisely telling the Sadhaka how he should behave in this realm of duality—for, by this time the rays of the sun have begun to illumine to the eyes of the mortal the vast creation of multiplicity and this talk on Karma Yoga gives the most timely reminder that ‘Even this is the Virat Swarupa of the Lord: it need not frighten you or bewilder you: serve without egoism: do your duty: realise the Self through all this.’ (On alternate days Sri Swami Chidanandaji delivers his inspiring lectures on Raja Yoga. Here again one is taught to feel that the perception of each external object, now gradually coming into the Sadhaka’s vision as morning advances, can be controlled and sublimated by an inner process of control of mind, that culminates in Samadhi revealing the true nature of the Self.) From Unity to diversity: from diversity back to Unity again. That is the process.
Nor should one imagine that the students are ever kept in the dizzy heights of Vedanta and that the layman who listens to these discourses could sink into Tamas, unable to rise into Satwa. As soon as the Raja Yoga class is over, Vishnu Swamiji will call ‘attention’ and begin the Yogic drill.
All done sitting: Yoga Mudra, Ushtasan, lateral twists of the spine, Paschimottanasan, an elementary physical culture, Uddiyana, Agnisara, Kapalabhati, Bhastrike (slow, internal and rapid), Sitali, Sitkari and eye-exercises. This round of exercises saves (those so inclined) from relapsing into Tamas, and adds to the Satwa of others.
These are immediately followed by Siva’s inspiring Kirtans and songs—each word pregnant with the Self-realisation of the sage, thrilling, elevating and tranquillising. One is inclined to feel at this stage that all the previous items were preparatory stages to this grand culmination. Maha Mantra Kirtan, Maha Vakya Kirtan, Soham Mantra Kirtan, Gita Kirtan, Yoga-Vasistha Kirtan—it is then that you are thankful for the bending and twisting and breathing that you had just passed through, for they have enabled you to enjoy the thrill of the Kirtan and attune yourself to Siva, by driving away the Tamas that might still have been lingering in the body and mind. The final OM chanting enables you to feel actually the unreality of externals and the Reality of the Kutastha. With a prayer for the peace, prosperity and health of all (for after the spiritual drill in the morning, you are in a pure state with a powerful Will which you are taught by Gurudev to use for the good of all), the class concludes. Then follow individual or group Suryanamaskara, Asana training and practice.
Needless to say that Mrs. Saksena and children enjoyed this morning class immensely, indeed.
Later Mrs. Saksena and party were shown the Photo-Phonics Department and the Sivananda Art studio. They (especially the children) witnessed with great delight the movie films projected through the editing equipment.
Soon after this the Yoga Museum. The significance of the arrangement, the meaning of the composition of the museum, etc., were succinctly explained to the party.
What a fund of knowledge does one gain in such a short time!
No wonder that a visitor remarked after last night’s Satsang: ‘I have never attended such a wonderful Satsang meeting as this!’ Even during the night Satsang the mind is never allowed a moment to stray away. Beginning with Kirtans, Bhajans, study of the Gita, Upanishad and Tulasi Ramayana, the evening programme includes a lecture by Swami Chinmayanandaji on the Upanishads and concludes with Siva’s Kirtans and Bhajans (in English, Hindi and Sanskrit). Siva often distributes a few of his spiritual vitamin tablets in short crisp and sweet poems, each one with a high concentration of spiritual truth, humour, and practical instructions! After Siva’s Kirtan, there is OM-chanting, Maha Mrityunajaya Japa, Arati, and Peace Chant.
Someone described this as Indra Sabha. And, aptly so, for there is every kind of instrumental music, many vocal Bhajanists hailing from various parts of the country singing the Bhajans of various great devotees. A wonderful mixture of indescribably ingredients, sweet, pleasant and God-intoxicating.
INDIAN PARLIAMENT AT ANANDA KUTIR
The sun was still young, and a calm pervaded the atmosphere near the Ashram. The tranquillity of the Abode of Bliss, with Mother Ganges perennially humming the Pranava, seemed to reflect the Peace Within of the Lord of Ananda Kutir (our Siva) who calmly and silently was going through the letters, signing them, and checking the addresses on book-packets.
It was a calm before a spiritual storm.
Dr. Gairola, the Tehri Minister of Health, came in and bowed to Siva.
‘Swamiji, OM Namo Narayanaya. Has not Sri Mohanial Saksena come in yet?’
‘No. Is he coming?’
‘Yes, Swamiji. He had promised to be here now and asked us to pick him up. By the way, our Congress President, Rashtrapati Pattabhi Sitaramiah, is here along with some other Congress leaders.’
‘Please ask them to come to the Ashram.’
The Minister, with the help of a couple of Ashramites, at once brought in the Rashtrapati. Thakur Krishnan Singhji, Education Minister of Tehru, and Sri Sampurnanandji, Education Minister of the U.P., and Sri Paripurnanand were also with the Rashtrapati.
Even as he was entering the D.J. Hall, after being received outside it by Siva himself, the Rashtrapati was attracted by the Suryanamaskar and Yoga Asan Charts. The party seated themselves in the Hall, facing the Ganges and the Himalayas. First, books started slowing around to them, Siva silently selecting for each one the books that would be most welcome to him.
(Messengers had gone about fetching tea, fruits, sweets etc.!)
The Rashtrapati’s first remarks were: ‘Swamiji, the more we learn, the ‘smaller’ we seem to become. What I have learnt and experienced during these seventy years has, I think, enabled me to begin life. I personally believe in Samskaras and that nothing is lost.’
‘Yes, yes, you continue the evolution in the next birth.’
By the time the Rashtrapati had obtained two sets of Suryananmaskar Photographs, and they had all taken their seats for the Prasad and coffee that were awaiting them, another party consisting of—Sri Mohanial Saksena, Union Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation, Sri M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Sri T. Prakasam, ex-Premier of Madras, Sri Prof. N.G. Ranga, A Congress leader, Sri Thirumala Rao, M.P., had also come in.
Books and Prasad flowed competing with the Ganga. The Rashtrapati was astonished.
‘You seem to have a Kamadhenu here,’ he exclaimed.
Sri Sampurnanandaji replied to him: ‘It is all the glory of Swamiji’s Tapasya. What cannot Tapasya achieve?’
Now the Parliament was in full session at Ananda Kutir. Discussion, questioning, heckling, humour—all were given full, informal play. One Minister vied with the other in claiming that he was keenly interested in the visit to the Ashram. Sri Sampurnanandaji was emphatic: ‘I am in charge of the Ecclesiastic Portfolio. Both Hinduism as well as Christianity are my concern. So, I have come to visit this great religious institution.’ Tehri Ministers replied to this with a smile: for they have always considered the Ashram their own. To Sri Mohanial Saksena the Ashram is his own home and the abode of one whom he adores and admires.
As these discussions were going on, Sri Thirumala Rao quietly slipped away and joined Siva for a private talk and a ‘closer view’ of one whom he had always admired from a distance.
The debate was in full swing. Ultimately everyone concluded that they had all done the wisest thing:
‘It is a God-given opportunity for all of us.’
Prof. Ranga’s gaze was attracted by the Telugu books in the almirah. ‘Doctor Saheb! There are Telugu translations of Swamiji’s works also.’
Calmly, and with all the seriousness of a seasoned Parliamentarian, Sri Thirumal Rao rejoined: ‘Why, Swamiji is an All-India figure; nay, his influence has reached beyond India’s shores, too. He is a world-figure now.’
Someone noticed that Sri Mohanial Saksena was merely witnessing the table. When the cup of coffee was taken near him, he quietly said: ‘Today is Ekadashi. I am fasting.’
For a high-ranking Minister to say that! No wonder. He is a great admirer of Siva, one of whose main teachings is ‘Fast on Ekadashi.’
After the discussion on the merits and glory of Ekadashi Vrata among the members and Ministers was over with, the Rehabilitation Minister, adamant in his resolve….
Siva whispered to us: ‘We shall do Kirtan for a minute.’ Sri Thirumal Rao at once caught up with the idea and made the announcement. Siva began with OM thrice. Immediately Sri Ananthasayanam Ayyangar sat cross-legged in his chair, in the customary Indian fashion while praying.
‘Hare Rama’ Maha Mantra, quickly followed by the Song of Admonition. Silent nodding of the head with half-closed eyes while Siva sang….
Time sweeps away Kings and Barons
Where is Yudhisthira, where is Asoka?
Where is Valmiki, where is Shakespeare?
Where is Napoleon, where is Sivaji?
Can you expect real Santi if you waste
Your time in cards and cinemas,
In novels newspapers?
The leaders were suddenly awakened to the realities of life when Siva thundered….
When your throat is choked at the time of death, who will help you for your Salvation?
The Rashtrapati, who was till then reclining against a pillar, suddenly sat up, as if to ask: ‘What is it you are saying?’
Then followed instruction: ‘The Song of A Little’.
Later Gita Kirtan, Upanishad Kirtan and Yoga-Vasishtha Kirtan.
Jeeve Kalpana, Jagat Kalpana,
All is Kalpana, Deergha Swapna
Sri Prakasham in a perfectly prayerful mood, nodded assent.
Then Soham Kirtan ending with…
Sarvesham Swasti Bhavatu
Sarvesham Shantir Bhavatu
Sarvesham Purnam Bhavatu
Sarvesham Mangalam Bhavatu
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah Sarve Santu
Niramayah, Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu
Maa Kaschit Duhkha Bhag Bhavet
Om Santih Santih Santih
Asato Maa Sat Gamaya
Tamaso Maa Jyotir Gamaya
Mrityor Maa Amritam Gamaya
OM Purnamadah Purnamidam Purnaat Purnamudachyate,
Purnasya Purnamaadaaya Purnamevaavasishyate
Om Santih Santih Santih
This conclusion of the Kirtan impressed all, for that indicated the true Jnani’s attitude ‘Savra Bhuta Hite Ratah’ (devoted to the welfare of all.)
As the party was leaving the Ashram, Padmanabhanji came up with this battery of cameras. The whole gathering formed into a group. Click….click. ‘Thank you’—bowed P.
Someone remarked: ‘All these cameras, too?’
The Rashtrapati was ready-witted: ‘Swamiji has developed a modern Ashram on our ancient ideals.’
25th May, 1949
MAHARAJAH OF SITAMAU
Siva was having his lunch when the Sitamau Rajah was seen coming towards the Ashram in a boat. He had sent word previously that he would be coming to Ananda Kutir today to have Siva’s Darshan. Even without finishing the lunch, Siva got up and walked up to the Ghat to receive the Maharajah.
Straightaway the party wended its way to the Mandir. They sang the Kirtan in chorus, led by Swami Chidanandaji. The Raja Saheb offered bael leaves and flowers to Lord Viswanath in great devotion and sang a few inspiring hymns in praise of the Lord. Coming out of the temple, he bowed to Siva and said:
‘I desire this one boon from the Lord and from your holiness. May devotion ever dwell in my heart. May I strive to become a true Bhakta. May I ever have Smaran of the Lord, my Lord Rama.’
The Raja Saheb then went round the temple. He noticed the big marble slab on the walls of the sanctum sanctorum put up to commemorate the inauguration of the Viswanath Mandir Moola Dhana with a generous contribution of ten thousand rupees which he had made in memory of Her late Highness, the Maharani of Sitamau.
‘And, even this act was made by me only with this one motive at heart. May I have devotion to Lord Rama. I felt that Swamiji’s Ashram Mandir founded here through Swamiji’s Sat Sankalpa would fulfil that purpose. The worship done here would bring about the peace of the departed soul and our Kalyan also.’
Raja Saheb believes only in devotion, though, as he said while Chidanandaji was explaining the Yoga Museum, he had mastered the Prasthanatrayi. ‘I want only devotion. I do not want Mukti even. I fully believe in the meaning of the stanza….
Abhimanam surapanam gauravam rouravam samam
Pratishtha sukrivishta trayam tyaktva bhajhetu
Abhimana is like Surapanam (drinking of toddy): respect in the worldly sense is equal to Raurava hell: getting established in name and fame is equal to a pig’s faecal matter: one should renounce the three, and then worship Hari.
Siva greatly admired the Raja Saheb’s humility.
Milk and fruits were brought. But the Raja Saheb went on repeating: ‘I have come here only to receive Swamiji’s blessings that I may have devotion to Lord Rama.’ He then touched Siva’s feet and departed.
Save later said to us:
‘My children! See the Raja Saheb’s humility. And, his thirst for devotion to His lotus feet. That should be a Sadhak’s motto.’
‘It is no doubt true that Bhakti Sadhana consists in remembering the Lord constantly. Very few people will be able to do this and this alone, without doing anything else. See the Raja Saheb himself. He has been a student of Jnana Marga: he is well read in the Upanishads, Gita and Brahma Sutras. And, remember that he has been carrying on the business of a State. He has been maintaining his own family. Side by side, he has been carrying on his devotional practices. That is the secret.
‘Karma Yoga should be nicely blended with Jnana and Bhakti. Do not be frightened if during the course of your work you sometimes forget the Lord, your mind stops the repetition of His name, and you seem to lose the Bhava. God is the Antaryamin. He will understand inner motive. You need not tell Him what you are thinking of. He will give you a greater abundance to devotion and Bhav. Early in the morning and at night say unto the Lord in prayer: ‘Oh, Lord, whatever I do is your worship only. Please be gracious enough to accept.’ This synthesis leads one to the goal very quickly.’
26th May, 1949
FULL-BELLIED PRAYERS
The Sadhu Bhojan arranged by Sri Gauri Prasadji of Swarg Ashram was in progress. Sri Narayanaswamiji was continuously singing some Stotras and Mantras. Siva asked Atmanandaji to recite a few hymns. The meals were over and the Manager said: ‘Ganga Mayya ki Jai’. Siva’s voice rang forth from his seat: ‘Ohji, wait a bit.’ All resumed their seats.
Siva asked an old South Indian woman to sing a few Tamil songs in praise of the Lord, of Vairagya, and of devotion. A South Indian young lad well versed in Hindi sang a Hindi Bhajan. This was followed by another Tamil verse. Siva then prompted a Punjabi mother to sing a Punjabi Bhajan. Every time someone finished, the Manager will say ‘Ganga Mayya ki Jai’, and every time Siva would stay the dispersal of the crowd. Last came the turn of a Marathi mother. ‘Sangitla, some Bhajan of Tukaram.’
The ‘Satsang’ in the dining hall lasted longer than the dinner itself. The diners who assembled at 10.30 dispersed at 11.45. In sophisticated society, too, dinners last that long. But, what a difference! When you are joyous, when you have satisfied your appetite, when you are ‘full’, you should utter the Lord’s name and sing His praise.
Instead, people waste these precious moments in idle gossip and chit-chatting. The mind during that period is calm and ‘satisfied’, and fresh desires and longing have not risen yet. That is the best time to sing His name and remember Him. That is the secret which Siva has revealed today. May all hosts take the hint.
LADDU AND MUD-BALLS
‘Atmanandaji, please take some Laddus’….(Siva gave him some)….‘Do we have the same Bhavana when we look at this as when we look at mud-balls?’
‘Swamiji, we have heard that they are the same: we have an intellectual understanding. But, how difficult to see one in the other?’
‘And, yet, people wish to rise at once to Vedantic Sadhana. They do not want Bhakti. They repeat ‘Sivoham’ and ‘Soham’. Till the Sadhaka actually feels and sees that Laddu is a mud-ball, he is not an Adhikari for Vedantic Nididhyasana. It is good to study Vedanta and to try to raise up the Brahmakara Vritti: but the Sadhaka should also engage himself in Nishkamya Karma Yoga and Bhakti, too.’
SONG OF ITIES
Siva was in full form this evening during the Satsang. He read the humorous poems from his ‘Vedanta Jyoti’. People often roared with laughter. Then he sang a couple of Tamil songs; then Hindi Bhajans, at the same time playing on the Harmonium. Then he suddenly sprang up and roared:
‘The Lord has enumerated in the Gita several virtues which every Sadhaka should develop to perfection if he wants to attain Mukti. Most of the virtues depend upon one another. Find out the quality that you lack; consciously develop it. Introspect. Analyse. Eradicate the opposite evil quality.’
He sang the Song.
‘If you sit at a particular place and at a particular time for meditation daily, the meditative mood will come automatically.
‘Simplicity. Have always the motto: Simple living and high thinking. Gandhiji was revered throughout the world even though he was clad but in a loin cloth. The fullness of awakened divinity should shine through you. Merely putting on beautiful clothes will not do.
‘When inside these is dirt and ugliness, merely putting on costly dress is sheer hypocrisy. You try to deceive yourself and God. Clean the heart; purify it. Then people will worship you.’
Siva noticed a Rishikesh Sadhu who disapproves of the use of English language, sitting in the audience.
‘Oh, Swamiji Maharaj, (In Hindi) I am only repeating what the Lord has said in the Gita. You read it in Sanskrit. I have put it in English. The idea is the same. The purpose is the same. Only a difference in mode of expression, in a superficiality—the language.’
‘English also will be the common language in India for another 20 or 25 years: afterwards also it will be one of the main languages here. People will want to go overseas for higher education and research. Man is not satisfied with a little income: nor with a little knowledge. He wants to earn thousands and is eager to expand his knowledge.’
Then he looked at us. We had been asked to keep ourselves in readiness to sing Nama Ramayan.
I KNOW WHEN YOU SHOULD BEGIN
‘No, not now. You should be ever prepared. When I say ‘begin’, then only can you begin. But, be always prepared.’
The remarks referred to a song, but I take it to be a command for the entire song of life. A Guru knows when his disciple should do what, when he is fit for particular Sadhanas. Disciples often delude themselves into a belief that they are fit for Nirvikalpa Samadhi and that their Guru is obstructing their progress by insisting on work and worship of God. They run here and there, lose themselves in the dense jungle of doubts and difficulties and ultimately perish. Beloved Sadhaka, stick to the lotus feet of the Guru and do his bidding. He knows best and you will attain your goal.
Siva then sang Kirtans, interspersed with instructions.
SOLUTION FOR WARS
‘You should sing with Bhav. Sraddha, faith and a belief born of conviction are necessary. Husband pretends to love his wife; wife pretends to love her husband. There is no real love at heart. Similarly, between father and son; between friends, too. Real love is the heart’s love. Develop this divine love. That is the only way to end quarrels, riots and wars.’
SPEND THE NIGHT IN YOUR OWN KUTIR
Sri Swami Suk Devanandaji who has a big Ashram on the other side of the Ganges—one of the oldest friends and admirers of Siva—had been invited to the Satsang today. He had delivered an inspiring discourse on the necessity during Kali-Yuga of the performance of Karma Yoga. The assembly dispersed, and Sukdevanandaji could not get the motor-boat to go across.
Chidanandaji was offering the guests bed, etc. to spend the night in the Ashram. Sri S. wanted to go via Lakshmanjhula. Siva at once saw the point.
‘Yes, that is a very good idea. Even though it means additional strain and walking a couple of miles and loss of an hour’s sleep, you will have peaceful rest afterwards.’
This is an object lesson for all Sanyasins.
CONSERVE PRANA: INSPIRE, LET THEM PRACTISE
A member of S.’s party acquiesced and added: ‘Yes, Swamiji. Further, Swami Sukdevanandaji has to attend the morning class in his Ashram, too.’
Siva said: ‘Sukdevanandaji! You have lectured enough: worked enough. Please take care of your health. If you go on lecturing like this for hours on end each day, you are wasting your life-breath. You should simply inspire people; then they should practise. Later on, all that you need do is to silently watch your disciples’ progress. Occasionally, you can deliver discourses, too. They should practise and realise themselves.’ It was friendly advice from sage Siva that went straight to the heart of Sr. Swami S.
DECIDE: DO IT AT ONCE
Another member of Sukdevanandaji’s party raised some objection, and suggested that they might all spend the night at Ananda Kutir.
‘Swamiji, once you decide, stick to it. Sukdevanandaji is going; you all follow him. Stick to your decisions. Do not waver.’
How many of us fail in this respect! This tenacious adherence to decision is SIVA: and that is one of the secrets of his great achievements.
GIRL ABANDONS PARENTS AND FOLLOWS SIVA
Thus came to a glorious conclusion the day’s function arranged in memory of the late Sri Gyaneshwari, a grand-daughter of Judge Saheb, in whose memory a Kutir had been built at the Ashram. G’s mother, too, was present during the whole day’s proceedings. She was greatly pleased.
‘Gyaneshwari was a saintly soul. Her devotion to Krishna was equalled only by Mira’s. She was Mira herself. She left just when we were arranging for her wedding, to join her Lord. It was she herself who later, (after she had passed away), asked Judge Saheb to build a Kutir for her in Swamiji’s Ashram so that she could be always near him. It was she herself who had arranged all these functions which have drawn Swamiji’s grace upon her departed soul.
She wanted to follow Swamiji. She has fulfilled her own wish.’
THEN AND NOW IN KASHMIR
A Professor from Kashmir who has migrated to India (Punjab) has come with his family. Siva at once recognised him as one whom he had known during his (Siva’s) Kirtan-tour in Kashmir.
UNPRECENDENTED CROWD AND SIVA’S AGAD BHUM
‘Swamiji, how well do we all remember your famous Agad Bhum song and dance. In spite of all that has happened since those days of peace, plenty and prosperity, the memory is still fresh in us of the eager throngs of men and women and children who would sit through whole days listening to your sweet, stirring Kirtans. I was only a small boy then, but I have the most vivid memory of this one thing in my life.’
His father, who had listened on with approval to his son’s talk, now put in his: ‘And, what gatherings! Swamiji, in all my life in Kashmir I have never again seen such a mass of humanity assembled together.’
I was inquisitive: ‘Did the figure run to thousands?’
‘Thousands?’—the old man felt disappointed. ‘Not less than ten thousands every day; and that looked like a sea of heads that swung to and fro in the fashion of waves, to the tune of Swamiji’s Kirtan. It was a sight for the gods.’
The old woman I could positively see was lost in a reverie: the picture of Kashmir, then, stirred and roused up by Siva’s Kirtan, perhaps floated before her eyes—and she was satisfied within herself.
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