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Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, New Delhi
 April 2009, Vol. 32 No. 4

CONTENTS FIRST WORD

4 Bhagwan Swaminarayan We need to expand our perspective to life.
Pleasing the Devotees of Botad
Shri Hari celebrates Fuldol... Seeing it from a cosmic perspective will give
7 Eternal Wisdom us deeper insights into our own. It will enable
Abhav-Avgun, Droh us to transcend our mundane attitudes, con-
Quotes from the Haricharitramrut Sagar... flicts and problems.
8 Philosophy – Swaminarayan Vedanta
Bhagwan Swaminarayan provides a cosmic
The Kathopanishad:
The Secret of Life After Death view in his discourses (Bhugol-Khagol
The story of Nachiketa’s determination... Vachanamrut), which finds its source in the
14 Perspectives Hindu shastras. He explains how long it takes
Is the Dollar Really Almighty...?
for a soul to get a human birth.
Balancing the accounts...
17 Indian History When the four yugas, i.e. Satya-yuga
Reconnect the Disconnection (1,728,000 years), Treta-yuga (1,296,000
Revive India’s proud traditions... years), Dwapar-yuga (864,000 years), and
19 Discourses Kali-yuga (432,000 years) pass, it is called
Niyam, Nishchay, Paksh
Qualities of a true satsangi...
one chokdi. Thus one chokdi amounts to
21 On Life 4,320,000 human years. And with the passing
Who’s in Control? of 1,000 chokdis one day (12 hours) of Brah-
God is the all-doer... ma (creator) ends. The same number of
24 BAPS Festival
chokdis amount to his one night. So, Brahma’s
Fuldol Celebration
26 BAPS News
single day and night amounts to
■ Royal Couple visit London Mandir 8,640,000,000 years. His 30 days make a
and The Swaminarayan School, month, 12 months make one year; and Brah-
London ma lives for 100 years. When Brahma dies,
■ National Family Seminars, UK
the brahmand, consisting of 14 realms (lokas),
is destroyed. This is called prakrut pralaya
Website: www.swaminarayan.org
E-mail: [email protected] (destruction). A soul gets a human body after
350,000,000 such prakrut pralayas. The total
Founder: HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas figure in human years is staggering!
Contributors: Sadhu Vivekjivandas, Sadhu Amrutvijaydas Now, let us come back to ourselves – the
Designer: Sadhu Shrijiswarupdas
Published & Printed by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith, way we live and think. This very thought of
Shahibaug, Ahmedabad–380 004. India.
our long, cosmic journey in our attainment of
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human life should definitely inspire us to live
Rupees Pounds US Dollars Rupees rightly, nobly, peacefully and with the ulterior
1 Year 400 6 10 60
2 Years 800 12 20 110 purpose of achieving moksha – as prescribed
3 Years 1200 18 30 160 by the Hindu shastras. ◆
SWAMINARAYAN HISTORY: TRANSLATION: SADHU VIVEKJIVANDAS

Pleasing the
Devotees of Botad
Shri Hari
showered all with coloured water and
celebrated the Fuldol festival in Botad.
But Daha Khachar, the host,
had one unfulfilled wish...

ut Maharaj, I have been left out,

“B untouched by a single drop,”

Daha Khachar declared.
“But I can see that you are wet. Why do you
say you have been left out?” Maharaj asked.
“Maharaj, you have drenched the streets of
Botad with colour, but my own darbar and its
precincts are dry.” official was enthralled by Devanand Swami’s
“Then let’s go to your darbar and celebrate.” soulful singing and the tune from the musical
Shri Hari and his entourage proceeded to instruments. He showed it by swaying to the
Hamir Khachar’s darbar with the same exuber- bhajan and music. Januba was delighted at Shri
ance. At the darbar, Maharaj sprayed coloured Hari’s darshan and impressed by Maharaj’s
water and gulal on the sadhus and devotees. greatness for having such accomplished singers
The entire precincts took on a red hue. Shri in his service. Then he beckoned his servants to
Hari was red from head to foot and so where bring the musical instruments he had brought
the devotees. Shriji Maharaj satisfied the wish with him. On seeing the instruments Maharaj
of Daha Khachar and his father, Hamir Khachar. asked, “You seem to be proficient in music.” The
Then Maharaj took a bath in a river on the official nodded humbly. Shri Hari stated, “I had
outskirts and returned to Daha Khachar’s dar- last seen such a variety of musical instruments
bar. An assembly commenced with bhajans by at the palace of Queen Kushalkunvarba.”
the paramhansas. Januba, a government official “Will your sadhus play them?” Januba asked.
of Ranpur, came for Maharaj’s darshan. He “Yes.”
bowed before Shri Hari and placed a donation The sadhus tuned the instruments and start-
of one rupee and a coconut at his holy feet. The ed playing them. The sadhus sang bhajans of

4 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

Holi. The strains were so eight years you have been
I ask
pleasing and soothing that the skirting Kutch. So have mercy
concert continued till early that my mind and and compassion upon us.”
morning. All became oblivious Shri Hari assured, “Gan-
heart forever remain
of how the time passed. And garam, the devotees of Kutch
with the dawning of a new engaged in your divine are always in my heart. I avoid
day the festival of colours and those who transgress moral
form, and that they
music came to a close. Shri injunctions. You all abide by
Hari went for his morning do not get enticed by moral disciplines. I will fulfil
ablutions to the nearby river your wish and pay a visit to
any material
with his sadhus and devotees. Kutch.”
The devotees and people of things. Maharaj took lunch at
Botad were happy and Hamir Khachar’s house. The
thrilled by the celebration and music. meal of dudhpak, puri, ghari, barfi and other
On the same day Gangaram Malla (wrestler), items were offered by him. His son, Daha
his son Madhavaji and other wrestlers arrived Khachar, pressed Maharaj to eat more. Shri Hari
from Bhuj. They bowed and touched the holy feet said, “You are asking me to eat more but go and
of Shriji Maharaj. Maharaj asked, “Gangaram, make sure that the devotees with me are well
these Kathi darbars are skilled at wielding the fed.” Daha Khachar assured Maharaj, “Bhaga
sword but they do not know the art of wrestling. Doshi is taking good care of them.” Maharaj
Exhibit your skills for all to see.” approved instantly, “Then there won’t be any
On Shri Hari’s command Gangaram and his lapse at all.” Then Maharaj praised Bhaga
team got ready to perform. Maharaj called Daha Doshi’s service, “This time, he disregarded his
Khachar and instructed him, “On their wrestling physical comforts in serving all. He was always
arena they have sand to absorb their fall. But ready and alert regardless of the time during
here it is hard, so place some mattresses.” Gan- day or night.” At that moment Bhaga Doshi
garam tried to dissuade Daha Khachar, entered. While prostrating he spoke appreciat-
“Maharaj, there is no need for any mattresses. ingly, “Maharaj, by your grace all is well. Your
Our bodies are tough and can bear the falls party has been fed to their hearts content.” Shri
because of our wrestling practices.” Hari expressed his joy and blessed Bhaga Doshi
The programme commenced with a bout by placing his hands on his head. “Sheth, you
between Gangaram and his son, Madhavji. Dur- have served splendidly this time. Therefore ask
ing the encounter neither could floor each for a boon.” At this Bhaga Doshi became emo-
other. Shri Hari and the audience watched with tional. He replied, “Maharaj, by your grace I am
bated breath. Finally, both the father and son well-off and well known. But my mind is not in
emerged victors from the bout. Maharaj was these material achievements. I ask that my
impressed by Madhavji’s tenacity and skill. Then mind and heart forever remain engaged in your
the other wrestlers too displayed their prowess, divine form, and that they do not get enticed by
and everyone appreciated and applauded their any material things.”
talent. Maharaj called Bhaga Doshi and Shri Hari was pleased and blessed him,
declared, “We should offer gifts to these “Sheth, by virtue of your service you have
wrestlers.” But Gangaram interjected, “Maharaj, received what you have prayed for. By my grace
the only gift we desire is that you come and your mind will not be entrapped in other things.
bless the land of Kutch. For the last seven to Now, do you wish to ask for anything else?”
April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 5
 Bhaga Doshi prayed, sage correctly. I do not prefer
My
“Maharaj, may my children to be alone and bereft of my
and their future generations successors devotees. Those who under-
be always attached to you out stand the glory of my devo-
are those who are
of love. And may they perceive tees, also understand my
your presence and divinity in wedded to and spread greatness.” Shri Hari agreed to
your lineage of successors.” his request.
ekantik dharma,
Shri Hari rectified Bhaga The next day Maharaj was
Doshi’s words, “Sheth, house- and have resolute on his way to Monji Pandya’s
holders have a lineage, where- house for his meal. He came
faith in me.
as I am a renunciant. Howev- across Bogha Luhar’s house.
er, my successors are those who are wedded to The latter had readied a bed in his verandah. He
and spread ekantik dharma, and have resolute had wished that Maharaj would come and sit on
faith in me. They are my kin and relatives.” it. Shri Hari entered his house and sat on his bed.
Bhaga Doshi failed to understand the pur- Bogha Luhar was pleased. Then Maharaj told him
port of Maharaj’s words. But Shri Hari had that he had sanctified his house. But Bogha
revealed the attributes of his true successor. humbly said, “Maharaj, how can you leave like
Then Shriji Maharaj and his sadhus visited the this. I wish to apply kumkum on your forehead
house of Bhaga Doshi. The latter performed an and do puja, and offer sugar crystals for prasad.
elaborate puja of Maharaj and offered dhotis to Here, please have one piece and give the rest to
the sadhus and parshads. To others he gave the others.” After fulfilling his wish Maharaj told
donations befitting their status. Then Maharaj Bogha, “I have taken a meal at your place.” Bogha
said, “Sheth, was the Fuldol festival celebrated was overwhelmed by Maharaj’s grace.
in accordance with your wish?” Shri Hari came to Monji Pandya’s house for
Bhaga Sheth replied humbly, “Maharaj, my lunch. When Maharaj finished eating he person-
wishes are trifle and small. It is you who had ally served food to the sadhus and then to Dada
magnified them and celebrated it in a grand, Khachar and others. Finally, Maharaj returned
unprecendented manner and magnitude. Daha to Daha Khachar’s darbar to make preparations
Khachar is also pleased beyond measure. And for his departure. The Kathi devotees, who had
that is why he uttered that you should celebrate come with him, were ready on their horses. Shri
another festival in Botad on such a scale.” Shri Hari mounted on Manki and the music band
Hari simply smiled and said that he wished to started playing a farewell tune. Everyone fol-
leave and permit others to return to their lowed Shriji Maharaj and his entourage to see
homes. In response Monji Pandya stood up star- them off. Maharaj exited through the gate of
tled. He prayed to Shri Hari, “Maharaj, tomor- Tajpur and arrived by a stepwell near Senthali.
row I have arranged a meal for you and every- Unexpectedly, Maharaj dismounted and sat on a
one else. I will not let you go today. You’ll have huge boulder. He blessed all the devotees and
to come and dine with the entire following.” instructed, “Now you may all leave for your
Shri Hari agreed, but asked, “You want the respective villages and towns.” He also told the
entire group with me to stay behind?” Monji devotees of Botad to return to their homes.
replied affirmatively, “They are all a part of you. Then Shriji Maharaj, his sadhus, Dada Khachar
I do not wish to exclude them.” Maharaj was and other darbars travelled to Gadhpur.
happy with Pandya’s understanding, and added, ◆
“Pandya, you have grasped my glory and mes-
6 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
ETERNAL WISDOM: TRANSLATION: SADHU AMRUTVIJAYDAS

Abhav-Avgun, Droh
First one develops a dislike (abhav), then one starts to criticize (avgun) and
finally one does not hesitate to openly malign (droh). If one’s focus on the glory of God,
his devotees and Satsang is not maintained, these are the stages through which one may pass,
ultimately leading to one’s own fall from the spiritual path. In the Haricharitramrut Sagar,
Bhagwan Swaminarayan describes the dangers of seeing faults in others and
teaches how to avoid such malicious behaviour.

1. On the way from Bandhia to Pipaliya, Shri removed the jiva suffers the miseries of hell – (I
Hari said, “If a true sadhu is walking, then even ask you to) come and touch my feet. Do not be
the contact of the breeze he generates grants dishonest. Dishonesty will not remain unnoticed
moksha. Even if the ignorant or irreligious bind, in one’s behaviour. One’s own actions are the
beat or insult him, he will not complain. He true test of one’s identity.”
only wishes for the good of all. One who dis- 4. At the residence of Jiva Khachar in Gad-
pleases such a sadhu is merely cutting his own hada, Shri Hari said, “When a ‘devotee’ is under
neck. The Vedas describe many sins, but there is the influence of evil, he perceives faults in all
no sin greater than to commit the droh of a other devotees, and falls from satsang. The life-
sadhu.” tree of such a wicked person who takes abhav
2. In Mankuva, Shri Hari said, “The sadhus of devotees rots from the roots and perishes.
and devotees are the form of Akshardham. If The rot in the form of abhav destroys such a
one develops abhav for them, then one falls person from within. A devotee who fears taking
from the path of (eternal) Akshardham, where abhav of others, and understands the glory of
Time has no entry. Those who develop abhav all other devotees never speaks derogatorily.
are not able to enter Akshardham. Even if all Such a devotee is never affected by evil influ-
the sadhus and devotees help him, he is unable ences. However, if one maintains a liking for lis-
to find Akshardham. The fault of taking abhav tening to talks about the abhav of others, then
is the biggest of all. Taking abhav of devotees is there is no guarantee about one’s future.”
even more harmful than the faults of lust, anger 5. One who wants to sustain satsang right upto
and greed. death should learn from the ways of the great
“Despite offering bhakti, one who considers devotees of the past. Without learning these
sadhus and devotees as insignificant may be ways, one may practice satsang for countless
offering bhakti, but I do not consider him as a years, but will not progress. Both sadhus and
devotee. One who does not respect devotees, householders should take note of this fact. One
considers sadhus as mere beggars, and despite who understands this talk will daily progress in
not having any virtues believes himself to be satsang and attain virtues. This talk I have
extremely great never develops any virtues. One revealed is highest of all. Only those who practice
who does not appreciate the greatness of oth- satsang will be able to understand it and will then
ers, how long will his own greatness remain?” have nothing more left to attain. This satsang is
3. In Mankuva, Shri Hari said, “Those who the highest chintamani. There is no chintamani
believe that even maligning a devotee slightly is other than this. This principle is understood by
a grave mistake, and that until such abhav is the wise, but others do not even recognize it.” ◆

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 7

PHILOSOPHY – SWAMINARAYAN VEDANTA: GUJARATI TEXT: SADHU BHADRESHDAS TRANSLATION: SADHU PARAMVIVEKDAS

The Kathopanishad
THE SECRET OF LIFE AFTER DEATH
ave you ever thought about the

H secret of life after death? One who

does will be able to think more
deeply about life. This is shown in the Katha
Upanishad (Kathopanishad). This thought
flashed to a young child, causing him to keenly
desire to attain that secret. He then reached the
doors of death. He patiently persevered to dis-
cover the secret of that which exists after death.
In fact, Death himself had to reveal the secrets
of life after death. And finally, only when that
secret was revealed, was the boy satisfied. The
story of this Upanishad is extremely captivating
and whoever reads it starts to think: Truly! The
Kathopanishad gives one an experience of liber-
ation whilst still alive.

INTRODUCTION
There is a shãkhã (branch) of the Krishna
Yajurveda called ‘Katha’. This Upanishad is
within that shãkhã, therefore it is called the
‘Katha Upanishad’. This Upanishad is spread
across two chapters, called adhyãyas, each with
three sub-chapters, called vallis. Thus, con-
tained within the six vallis of the Katha Upan-
ishad, we find clear and simple precepts on
brahmavidya through the story of Nachiketa.

THE STORY
A rishi named Vajashravas performed a Vish-
wajit Yagna. At the conclusion of this yagna,
one has to give one’s all in donation.
Vajashravas started donating to the Brahmins
accordingly. He began to donate his cows; weak
cows as well as strong, healthy ones.
Vajashravas’s son, Nachiketa, noticed this.
Although young, he was mature in understand-

8 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

ing, knowledge and faith. He knew that after a
yagna cows should indeed be donated, and it
would be wrong not to do so. But giving away
things that are a burden to oneself is not dona-
tion. Instead the giver himself becomes misfor-
tuned. The finest and dearest things should be
donated. This donation of weak cows by my
father is not proper: “¬ËÃÙŒ∑§Ê ¡ÇœÃÎáÊÊ ŒÈÇœŒÙ„UÊ
ÁŸÁ⁄UÁãº˝ÿÊ—– •ŸãŒÊ ŸÊ◊ Ã ‹Ù∑§ÊSÃÊŸ˜ ‚ ªë¿UÁà ÃÊ ŒŒÃ˜H” –
‘Pitodakã jagdhatrunã dugdhadohã nirindriyãhã.
Anandã nãma te lokãstãn sa gachchhati tã
dadat.’ – ‘One who donates cows that cannot
even drink water, cannot eat grass, cannot even
give milk and have aged, attains the loka
(realm) named ‘Anandã’, i.e. ‘where there is no
bliss’ (Katha Upanishad 1/1/3). Nachiketa
thought that by giving such worthless dona-
tions, his father will also attain such a misery-
filled loka. With such feelings, Nachiketa, who
cared for his father, was pained deeply. To stop
his father’s undesirable actions, he asked, “∑§S◊Ò
◊Ê¢ ŒÊSÿ‚ËÁÔ – ‘Kasmai mãm dãsyasi-iti’ – ‘O
Father! I am also a part of your wealth. Whom
will you give me to?’ (Katha Upanishad:
1/1/4.) His father did not reply. Nachiketa
repeated the question, ‘Father! Whom will you
give me to?’ His father stilled paid no attention.
When Nachiketa asked for the third time his
father became angry and said, “◊Îàÿfl àflÊ ŒŒÊ◊ËÁÔ
– ‘Mrutyave tvã dadãmeeti.’ – ‘I give you to
Death’ (Katha Upanishad: 1/1/4). This sentence
was meant to convey the message, ‘Go away,
don’t bother me right now.’ But Nachiketa was
an ideal son and he thought that regardless of
the fact that his father had said this in a fit of
anger, his words should not go unobeyed.
Hence, Nachiketa decided to go to the god of

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 9

Death, Yama Raja. His water. This was a grave
O father!
father found out and tried mistake, since a guest
to stop him. However, Those before us have all should be well looked
Nachiketa felt that his after. Therefore, O Brah-
died. Those present and
father was trying to stop min! For my offence to be
him due to the fear of those in the future will also forgiven and that I may be
death. He dumbfounded liberated, I bow to you
die. Because we are mortals,
his father with an eternal and request that you ask
truth. He said, “•ŸÈ¬‡ÿ ÿÕÊ like plants we grow and die. for three boons in return
¬Ífl¸ ¬˝Áì‡ÿ ÃÕÊ˘¬⁄U– ‚SÿÁ◊fl for the three nights you
So don’t worry, think about
◊àÿ¸— ¬ëÿÃ ‚SÿÁ◊flÊ¡ÊÿÃ ¬ÈŸ—H” spent fasting’ (Katha
– ‘Anupashya yathã purve the tendency of death and Upanishad: 1/1/9).
pratipshya tathã’pare.
let me do as you said.
Sassyamiva martyaha THE FIRST BOON
pachyate sassyamivãjãyate - Katha Upanishad: 1/1/6 Pleased with Yama
punaha.’ – ‘O father! Those Raja’s generosity, the
before us have all died. Those present and those young Brahmin, Nachiketa, asked for his first
in the future will also die. Because we are mor- boon, “‡ÊÊã¢∑§À¬— ‚È◊ŸÊ ÿÕÊ SÿÊŒ˜ flËÃ◊ãÿȪı¸Ã◊Ù ◊Ê˘Á÷
tals, like plants we grow and die. So don’t ◊ÎàÿÙ– àflà¬˝‚ÎCÔU◊˜ ◊Ê˘Á÷flŒà¬˝ÃËà ∞ÃØ òÊÿÊáÊÊ¢ ¬˝Õ◊¢ fl⁄¢U flÎáÊH”
worry, think about the tendency of death and – ‘Shãntasankalpaha sumanã yathã syãd veeta-
let me do as you said’ (Katha Upanishad: manyurgautamo mã’bhi mrutyo. Tvatprasrush-
1/1/6). His father gave him permission. tam mã’bhivadetprateeta etat trayãnãm
Nachiketa set off towards the palace of Yama prathamam varam vrune.’ – ‘O Death! Let all my
Raja. father’s thoughts come to rest. Let him be
pleased with me and free of anger towards me.
THREE BOONS TO A UNIQUE GUEST When I leave you and go home, let him recog-
Nachiketa reached the palace of Yama Raja nize me as “his son”. Let him talk to me with
only to find that Yama Raja was away. He wait- the same love and affection as he did before.
ed for three days without any food or water for This is the first of the three boons that I ask for’
Yama Raja to return. On the day after the third (Katha Upanishad: 1/1/10).
night, Yama Raja arrived. His old servants What pure feelings the child has for his
informed him of the unique young guest and father! He had surrendered himself to death to
suggested that he provide him some hospitality. stop his father’s liberation being ruined. He also
Yama Raja did so. He pleased the child with understood the pain that his father must be
water to wash his feet, flowers, a meal, etc. He feeling due to this incident. Therefore we see
also made a request, “ÁÃdÙ ⁄UÊòÊËÿ¸ŒflÊà‚˪¸Î„U ◊˘Ÿ‡ŸŸ˜ Nachiketa’s love for his father expressed here.
’˝rÊÔÛÊÁÃÁÕŸ¸◊Sÿ—– Ÿ◊SÃ˘SÃÈ ’˝rÊÔŸ˜ SflÁSà ◊˘SÃÈ ÃS◊Êà¬˝Áà Hearing this, Yama was delighted, since at
òÊËãfl⁄UÊãflÎáÊËcflH” – ‘Tisro rãtriryadavãtsirgruhe me’- such a young age he had asked for something
nashnan brahmannatithirnamasyaha. Namaste’s- which even elders would not have thought of.
tu brahman svasti me’stu tasmãtprati trinvarãn- Pleased, Yama Raja granted him his first wish.
vrunishva.’ – ‘O Brahmin child! You are worthy
of being offered prostrations. You have come to THE SECOND BOON
my palace as a guest. I am pained that you had Before asking for the second boon, the intel-
to spend three nights without any food or ligent Nachiketa clarified, “Sflª¸ ‹Ù∑§ Ÿ ÷ÿ¢
10 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
Á∑¢§øŸÊÁSà Ÿ ÃòÊ àfl¢ Ÿ ¡⁄UÿÊ Á’÷ÁÖ ©U÷ ÃËàfl¸Ê˘‡ÊŸÊÿÊÁ¬¬Ê‚ “ÿÿ¢ ¬˝Ã ÁflÁøÁ∑§à‚Ê ◊ŸÈcÿ˘SÃËàÿ∑§ ŸÊÿ◊SÃËÁà øÒ∑§–
‡ÊÙ∑§ÊÁê٠◊ÙŒÃ Sflª¸‹Ù∑§H” – ‘Svarge loke na bhayam ∞ÃÁmlÊ◊ŸÈÁ‡ÊCÔUSàflÿÊ˘„¢U fl⁄UÊáÊÊ◊· fl⁄USÃÎÃËÿ—H” – ‘Yeyam
kinchanãsti na tatra tvam na jarayã bibheti. prete vichikitsã manushhye’steetyeke nãyamas-
Ubhe teertvãshanãyãpipãse shokãtigo modate teeti chaike. Etadvidyãmanushishtastvayã’ham
svargaloke.’ (The word svarge refers to the varãnãmesha varastruteeyaha.’ – ‘O Yama Raja!
abode of Paramatma.) – ‘O Death! There is no There is one discussion that arises time and
fear in the abode of Paramatma. Even you, time again in the world and that is regarding
Death, are not there. Therefore there is no fear matters after death. Some say there is nothing
of things like old age. In Paramatma’s abode after death. Some say that there is something
there are not even any bodily feelings like after death. Please give me a clear decision on
hunger and thirst. It is a place full of supreme this matter. This is the third boon I ask for’
bliss. Therefore, muktas (liberated jivas) who (Katha Upanishad: 1/1/20).
are above all misery experience bliss there’ Before we proceed further it is worthy to
(Katha Upanishad: 1/1/12). Hence, “‚ àfl◊ÁÇŸ¢ note that Nachiketa did not ask this question
SflÇÿ¸◊äÿÁ· ◊ÎàÿÙ ¬˝’˝ÍÁ„U àfl° üÊgœÊŸÊÿ ◊sÔ◊˜–” – ‘Sa tvam- because he doubted whether there was some-
agnim svargyamadhyeshi mrutyo prabruhi tvam thing after death or not. This is clearly reflected
shraddhãnãya mahyam.’ – ‘O Yama Raja! You from his talks to Yama Raja in his previous
know agnividya by which one can attain that boon. His reason for asking is that the common
abode of Paramatma, teach it to me’ (Katha person is generally baffled on hearing contradic-
Upanishad: 1/1/13). “∞ÃŒ˜ ÁmÃËÿŸ flÎáÊ fl⁄UáÊ” – ‘Etad tory things. Sometimes, so called intelligent
dviteeyena vrune varena.’ – ‘This is what I ask people, due to their arrogance, mislead gullible
for as my second boon’ (Katha Upanishad: people with false logic. They confuse people by
1/1/13). Yama Raja readily agreed and became creating doubts regarding accepted facts by
a teacher. He taught him agnividya. One is natu- claiming that they are blind faith, a matter of
rally attentive in matters for which one has sentimentalism or false. Thus, Nachiketa
keen interest. Therefore, Nachiketa repeated requests, ‘Therefore, O Yama Raja! You are a
whatever he was taught. The teacher’s heart wise and skilled orator. Whatever you approve
was won over! Yama Raja showed his pleasure will be accepted by all. The true principle will
by saying, “ÃflÒfl ŸÊêŸÊ ÷ÁflÃÊÿ◊ÁÇŸ— ‚Îæ˜U∑§Ê¢ ø◊Ê◊Ÿ∑§M§¬Ê¢ be revealed by your words. People will also rec-
ªÎ„UÊáÊ” – ‘Tavaiva nãmnã bhavitãyamagnihi srunk- ognize what is false. They will identify empty
ãm chemãmanekaroopãm.’ – ‘From now on, this shows of words and webs of logic. People’s con-
agnividya that I have taught you will be known viction in the truth will become stronger. There-
by your name. And here, have this beautiful fore, O Death! You yourself explain to me the
garland of coloured gems’ (Katha Upanishad: secrets of life after death.’ This is Nachiketa’s
1/1/16). This was an additional blessing. One noble and humble request.
who is nirlobhi (free from greed) gets such ben-
efits without any endeavour. But Nachiketa COMPETENCE – THE ELIGIBILITY TEST
merely showed his gratitude; he did not care for Yama Raja was extremely impressed by this
the garland of gems. Indeed, as a result of Yama request. Indeed, Yama Raja knew how many
Raja’s boon, this knowledge is known by the secrets this young child had asked the solutions
name ‘Nachiket Agnividya’. for in this one boon. There was no option or
alternative but to reveal the heart of spirituality.
THE THIRD BOON The lofty mental attitude and intellect of
Asking for the third boon, Nachiketa says, Nachiketa, (who at first seemed a mere child)
April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 11
had already been experienced. Nevertheless, in ÿÊflÁŒë¿UÁ‚H” – ‘Shatãyushaha putrapautrãn-
accordance with the established traditions, vruneeshva bahoonpashoon hastihiranyamashvãn.
Yama Raja decided to test Nachiketa’s eligibility Bhoomermahadãyatanam vruneeshva svayam cha
and only then teach him the principles. jeeva sharado yãvadichchhasi.’ – ‘O Nachiketa! Ask
Yama Raja said, “ŒflÒ⁄UòÊÊÁ¬ ÁflÁøÁ∑§Áà‚â ¬È⁄UÊ Ÿ Á„U for progeny, fame, grandeur and a lifetime of a
‚ÈÁflôÊÿ◊áÊÈ⁄U· œ◊¸—– •ãÿ¢ fl⁄¢U ŸÁø∑§ÃÙ flÎáÊËcfl ◊Ê ◊Ù¬⁄UÙà‚Ë⁄UÁà hundred years. Ask for abundant elephants, hors-
◊Ê ‚Ρҟ◊˜H” – ‘Devairatrãpi vichikitsitam purã na es, etc. Ask for gold or a lot of land. Not only that,
hi suvigneyamanuresha dharmaha. Anyam varam ask to live as long as you wish’ (Katha Upanishad:
Nachiketo vruneeshva mã moparotseerati mã sru- 1/1/23). And then Yama Raja continues, “ŸÁø∑§ÃÙ!
jainam.’ – ‘Nachiketa! Ask for something else. ◊⁄UáÊ¢ ◊Ê˘ŸÈ¬˝ÊˇÊË—” – ‘Nachiketo! maranam mã’nuprãk-
What you want to know is very subtle. Even the sheehee.’ – ‘Nachiketa! Don’t ask about matters
devas have struggled to understand this matter. after death’ (Katha Upanishad: 1/1/25). Further,
You are still a child. This will not be easy to Yama Raja adds, “∞ÃûÊÈÀÿ¢ ÿÁŒ ◊ãÿ‚ fl⁄¢U flÎáÊËcfl ÁflûÊ¢
understand. Ask for something else’ (Katha Áø⁄U¡ËÁfl∑§Ê¢ ø– ◊„UÊ÷Í◊ı ŸÁø∑§ÃSàfl◊Áœ ∑§Ê◊ÊŸÊ¢ àflÊ ∑§Ê◊÷Ê¡¢
Upanishad: 1/1/21). In this way, he first ∑§⁄UÙÁ◊H” – ‘Etattulyam yadi manyase varam
showed him the difficulty of the topic. But, as vruneeshva vittam chirajeevikãm cha.
though attaining some new enthusiasm from Mahãbhoomau Nachiketastvamedhi kãmãnãm tvã
this matter, Nachiketa said, “ŒflÒ⁄UòÊÊÁ¬ ÁflÁøÁ∑§Áà‚â kãmabhãjam karomi.’ – ‘Moreover, O child! For
Á∑§‹ àfl¢ ø ◊ÎàÿÙ ÿ㟠‚ÈÁflôÊÿ◊ÊàÕ–” – ‘Devairatrãpi your boon ask for anything similar to what I have
vichikitsitam kila tvam cha mrutyo yanna suvi- told you. I will make you wealthy. Nachiketa! If
gneyamãttha.’ – ‘O Death! What you said has you ask, I will make you the king of the world.
only increased my curiosity further. There must You will be the Lord of all. Whatever you want
be some great secret hidden in something that from this world, I will bring before you’ (Katha
even the devas struggle to attain. Therefore, Upanishad: 1/1/24).
even if the matter is subtle, I want to know it’ Yama Raja continues with generous and glam-
(Katha Upanishad: 1/1/22). Then Nachiketa orous offers, “ÿ ÿ ∑§Ê◊Ê ŒÈ‹¸÷Ê ◊àÿ¸‹Ù∑§ ‚fl¸ÊŸ˜ ∑§Ê◊Ê°‡¿UãŒÃ—
continues to address Yama Raja, “flÄÃÊ øÊSÿ Á∑§‹ ¬˝ÊÕ¸ÿSfl– ß◊Ê ⁄UÊ◊Ê— ‚⁄UÕÊ— ‚ÃÍÿ¸Ê Ÿ „Uˌ·ÊÊ ‹ê÷ŸËÿÊ ◊ŸÈcÿÒ—–
àflʌΪãÿÙ Ÿ ‹èÿ—” – ‘Vaktã chãsya tvãdruganyo na •ÊÁ÷◊¸à¬˝ûÊÊÁ÷— ¬Á⁄UøÊ⁄UÿSfl ŸÁø∑§ÃÙ ◊⁄UáÊ¢ ◊Ê˘ŸÈ¬˝ÊˇÊË—H” – ‘Ye
labhyaha.’ – ‘When will I ever find a speaker of ye kãmã durlabhã martyaloke sarvãn kãmãnshch-
your calibre, who can simply explain the deep- handataha prãrthayasva. Imã rãmãhã sarathãhã
est principles lucidly?’ (Katha Upanishad: satooryã na heedrushã lambhaneeyã manushhyai-
1/1/22.) Therefore, “ŸÊãÿÙ fl⁄USÃÈÀÿ ∞ÃSÿ ∑§ÁpØ” – hi. Ãbhirmatprattãbhihi parichãrayasva Nachiketo
‘Nãnyo varastulya etasya kashchit’ – ‘I do not maranam mã’nuprãksheehee.’ – ‘Ask as you wish
feel that there is anything else worth asking for for whatever is difficult to attain in this world for
instead of this. Therefore give me only this’ enjoyment as you wish. These beautiful women
(Katha Upanishad: 1/1/2). (on this chariot) which no man can attain, I will
Yama Raja had by now realized the eagerness let you attain. But, O Nachiketa! The path after
of the child. Yet he felt that the test should con- death is imperceptible, above logic, and hard to
tinue. Brahmavidyã can only be digested by one attain; therefore do not ask for that’ (Katha
who is ãtmãrup (controlled by his ãtmã) not by Upanishad: 1/1/25).
one who is controlled by his indriyas (senses). Yama Raja tested him in every possible way.
Thinking this, he tried to tempt him with other He offered women, wealth, power and many
enticing things: “‡ÊÃÊÿÈ·— ¬ÈòʬıòÊÊãflÎáÊËcfl ’„ÍU㬇ÊÍŸ˜ other things. What was Nachiketa’s response to
„UÁSÃÁ„U⁄Uáÿ◊EÊŸ˜– ÷Í◊◊¸„UŒÊÿߢ flÎáÊËcfl Sflÿ¢ ø ¡Ëfl ‡Ê⁄UŒÙ all of this? The answer he gave was forever
12 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
etched in the golden pages of Indian history. nastat. Yoyam varo goodhamanupravishto
Here is the response of the child Nachiketa, nãnyam tasmãnnachiketã vruneete.’ – ‘O Yama
“EÙ÷ÊflÊ ◊àÿ¸Sÿ ÿŒãÃ∑Ò§ÃØ ‚fl¸¥Áº˝ÿÊáÊÊ¢ ¡⁄Uÿ¢Áà Ã¡—– •Á¬ ‚flZ Raja! Give me the solution to the matter at
¡ËÁflÃ◊À¬◊fl ÃflÒfl flÊ„UÊSÃfl ŸÎàÿªËÃH” – ‘Shvobhãvã hand regarding what happens after death. That
martyasya yadantakaitat sarvendriyãnãm is all; there is nothing else that Nachiketa
jarayanti tejaha. Api sarvam jeevitamalpameva wants’ (Katha Upanishad: 1/1/29). Emphasiz-
tavaiva vãhãstava nrutyageete’ (Katha Upan- ing his wish with such determination, Nachiketa
ishad: 1/1/26). The essence of this stanza is: ‘O became silent.
Death! We are all mortal humans. Everything Yama Raja was impressed by Nachiketa’s
you have told me to ask for – sons, animals, determination and maturity. He was momentari-
wealth, beautiful women, etc. are all “EÙ÷ÊflÊ—” – ly confused as to how to praise the noble child.
shvobhãvãhã – inexistent tomorrow. None of What he then said shows the impression
this will remain tomorrow. You yourself are the Nachiketa had left on him. He said, “üÊÿp ¬˝ÿp
one that brings an end to them all. Moreover, ◊ŸÈcÿ◊× Ãı ‚ê¬⁄UËàÿ ÁflÁflŸÁQ§ œË⁄U—– üÊÿÙ Á„U œË⁄UÙ˘Á÷ ¬˝ÿ‚Ù
attractive women and other pleasures that you flÎáÊËÃ ¬˝ÿÙ ◊ãŒÙ ÿÙªˇÊ◊ÊŒ˜ flÎáÊËÃH” – ‘Shreyashcha
suggest I ask for weaken the organs of knowl- preyashcha manushyametaha tau sampareetya
edge and action. As a result, one has to endure vivinakti dheeraha. Shreyo hi dheero’bhi preyaso
fatigue and depression. O Death, it is also a fact vruneete preyo mando yogakshemãd vruneete.’ –
that even if one enjoys such (mundane) plea- ‘O Brahmin child! There are two paths from
sures for a lifetime one will still not be satisfied. time eternal – one shreya and the other preya.
How can indulging in pleasures satisfy desire? The shreya path is that of liberation, and the
You tell me to ask for a long life, but compared preya path is that of enjoying material plea-
to Time itself it will still seem fractional. sures. Most people turn towards the preya path,
‘Therefore, O Yama Raja, keep your tempo- i.e. they are diverted by the desire for material
ral, misery-giving and unfulfilling elephants, enjoyment. Only a few who are steadfast and
horses and other means of enjoyment to your- wise choose the right shreya path. But you
self. I do not want them.’ astonish me.’ “‚ àfl¢ Á¬˝ÿÊÁã¬˝ÿM§¬Ê¢p ∑§Ê◊ÊŸ˜
Also, Yama Raja had suggested that Nachike- •Á÷äÿÊÿÛÊÁø∑§ÃÙ˘àÿdÊˇÊË—–”; “ÁfllÊ÷ËÁå‚Ÿ¢ ŸÁø∑§Ã‚¢ ◊ãÿ Ÿ
ta ask for ‘ÁflûÊ’ – vitta – i.e. wealth, and to live àflÊ ∑§Ê◊Ê ’„UflÙ˘‹Ù‹È¬ãÃH” – ‘Sa tvam priyãnpriya-
as long as he desires. Nachiketa countered that roopãnshcha kãmãn abhidhyãyannachiketo’tyas-
with the words, “Ÿ ÁflûÊŸ ì¸áÊËÿÙ ◊ŸÈcÿÙ ‹åSÿÊ◊„U rãksheehi.’ ‘Vidyãbheepsinam Nachiketasam
ÁflûÊ◊º˝ÊÄc◊ øûflÊ– ¡ËÁflcÿÊ◊Ù ÿÊflŒËÁ‡ÊcÿÁ‚ àfl◊˜–” – ‘Na manye na tvã kãmã bahavo’lolupanta.’ – ‘You
vittena tarpaneeyo manushyo lapsyãmahe vitta- understand women, wealth and power, which
madrãkshma chettvã. Jeevishyãmo lure the mind and divert most, as insignificant
yãvadeeshishyasi tvam.’ – ‘Who has ever been and scorn them. I cannot see the slightest cov-
satisfied by wealth! And in any case, the merit etousness in you! You have passed the test
gained by having your darshan I will attain that Nachiketa. You are truly eligible for brah-
also. Furthermore, how long one lives is in your mavidya. Therefore come, I have decided that
very hands. Therefore, if you are pleased, why the third boon you have asked for, regarding
should I worry about that’ (Katha Upanishad: that after death, I will now explain to you’
1/1/27). Hence, Nachiketa says, “ÿÁS◊ÁÛÊŒ¢ (Katha Upanishad: 1/2/3,4).
ÁflÁøÁ∑§à‚Áãà ◊ÎàÿÙ ÿà‚Êê¬⁄UÊÿ ◊„UÁà ’˝ÍÁ„U ŸSÃØ– ÿÙ˘ÿ¢ fl⁄UÙ We shall see Yama Raja’s explanation in the
ªÍ…U◊ŸÈ¬˝ÁflCÔUÙ ŸÊãÿ¢ ÃS◊ÊÛÊÁø∑§ÃÊ flÎáÊËÃH” – ‘Yasminnidam next installment.
vichikitsanti mrutyo yatsãmparãye mahati broohi ◆
April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 13
PERSPECTIVES: UK KISHORE MANDAL

Is the Dollar Really Almighty…?

financial catastrophe had been sim-

A mering through the weekend, with

desperate attempts to find a last-
minute suitor failing in vain. As Monday’s rush-
hour commute ensued, the inevitable devasta-
tion had become the focal point of the mass
media. The 158-year-old firm – which had sur-
vived the darkest hours of financial history –
crumbled and waved the white flag. As streams
of bewildered employees flowed out of the
building with personal possessions hastily
packed together in boxes, searching questions
were asked to those empowered with safe-
guarding such organizations from adversity.
A stone thrown in a pond generates ripples
that move ever outwardly. Thus, seldom are the
negligent actions of one individual exclusively
suffered by the wrongdoer. A reckless driver, for
example, endangers the lives of the passengers
inside the vehicle and pedestrians who inadver-
tently suffer injuries or worse because of his
careless driving. Political conflicts that lead two
nations into military battle invariably inflict suf-
fering to innocent civilians. Similarly, the effects
of the collapse of one of the world’s largest
financial institutions brought great misery not
only to those who worked tirelessly for its pros-
perity, but also to many more who were unre-
lated directly to the company or even the finan-
cial sector.
Irrespective of the debate that would natu-
rally follow events of this magnitude, an appar-
ent lack of discipline and control could not be
countered as a material factor. Psychologists
will lend their expertise to scenarios of this
nature by offering an insight into the rationale
behind such irresponsible behaviour. The key
players of such powerful institutions make deci-
sions to generate wealth. However, the urgency

14 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

of generating large profits became a critical fac- bility resulted in borrowers defaulting on their
tor. There is a culture of making large amounts payments, thereby exposing ‘greedy’ and irre-
of ‘fast money’ with significant risks. sponsible banks to huge bad debt and dwin-
The current global events in the financial dling client deposits. The borrowers could not
and money markets are symptomatic of the afford to repay, and so the banks suffered losses
greed that is arguably the greatest current on these loans. As news of this situation filtered
threat to modern civilization. Traders are into the media, customers became wary of
rewarded based upon the size of the profits they depositing their money with these banks. This
accumulate on behalf of organizations, which in caused a liquidity or ‘credit crunch’, a situation
turn, face pressure from shareholders for larger where a bank cannot sustain its operations
dividends. Mediocrity is not acceptable in because its bad debt is more than the deposits
today’s world and ‘contentment is not better in its books. House prices began to fall sharply
than riches’. This paradigm change has and the business model became unsustainable.
increased rapidly in recent times and, from a Banks were unable to recoup their losses from
theoretical perspective, has changed the lifestyle the security that was offered for the loans, and
of individuals and the business model of banks. the gamble of being able to borrow large
There had been a growing trend in the amounts of money for an asset that would
major world economies for banks to extend always increase in value failed dramatically.
mortgages to people who could not afford In response to this, many Western govern-
them. The business reasoning for this strategy ments are now bailing the failing banks by tak-
was to generate profits at the expense of the ing over the bad debt (toxic investments) from
somewhat unsuspecting borrower. As part of the them. In doing so, they are using the taxpayer’s
same equation, borrowers were driven by the money. The same taxpayer who is now being
temptations of materialism to live outside their punished did not enjoy the huge bonuses that
means. These borrowers borrowed more than the city workers used to make in good times.
they could afford, as they sought to own homes In summary, poorer people who can bearly
to satisfy their self-esteem and display them as afford decent meals are shouldering an even
a symbol of their status. bigger responsibility of carrying the City elites
Thus, we have compounded greed, on the on their shoulders. The same elites lived lavish
part of the borrower and the lender. The loans lifestyles from the sweat of the poor when times
that banks entered into were then subsequently where good.
‘repackaged’ and sold. Should the borrower Bhagwan Swaminarayan states in the Shik-
default on his obligations, the banks were legal- shapatri, “One should keep a daily record of
ly empowered to repossess their homes. Imag- one’s expenditure and income and should
ine a car showroom, for example, with a num- always live within one’s means….”
ber of cars that are in a very poor state of His sound financial principles, which address
repair, in a portfolio containing other vehicles even modern financial problems, tackle the core
that are relatively superior in quality. The true of this economic crisis for borrowers. The
extent of the stock of the business is camou- responsibility of monetary discipline rests with
flaged, because these substandard motors are the individual. The enticements for a lavish
part of the inventory – they may not be pur- lifestyle are ever increasing – we face a constant
chased and thus their value is disguised onslaught of advertisements, enticing us to
amongst the more elite models. believe the lie of greed. The annual expenditure
A consequence of this capitalistic irresponsi- of advertising for children’s products in Ameri-
April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 15
ca, for example, increased from $100 million in The lessons to be learned from the words of
1980 to $15 billion in 2004. Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Pramukh Swami
Man’s innate desire for material wealth is Maharaj are twofold: first, money is no surety of
fuelled by unscrupulous enterprises exploiting lasting and permanent happiness; moreover, it
his vulnerability. An endless availability of bor- brings associated unhappiness; and second, the
rowing to satisfy the hedonistic wishes of desire for material objects can lead one to borrow
instant gratification has transformed dreams to satisfy one’s wishes, and in some cases, to bor-
into attainable objects, albeit synthetically. What row an amount that one cannot afford to repay.
was once out of reach became readily available. This action ultimately yields unhappiness.
This led to a false economy, in which properties Pramukh Swami is a living embodiment of
and goods were acquired by those who could detachment. Dressed in orange robes and
not afford such possessions. always accompanied by the murti of Thakorji,
The consequence that the world is seeing for he inspires youths to remove their desires for
individuals is devastating. Repossessions of the riches of this world and become engaged in
homes are at record levels, recorded at an aver- the devotion of God. He invariably reminds us
age of 124 homes per day in the United Kingdom that we arrived on this earth without a penny,
alone. Families are being evicted from their lavish and will leave without taking any possessions.
properties because they cannot afford to pay their Although he underlines the problems associated
mortgages. The average amount borrowed by an with desire for wealth, he also guides people to
individual outside of their mortgage is almost focus their energies on God, the provider of true
£5,000. An unknown author has poignantly stat- and lasting happiness.
ed ‘Hindsight explains the injury that foresight Man has abandoned all notion of what is
would have prevented’. The foresight is encom- necessary to survive, even to live comfortably.
passed within the words of Bhagwan The requirements are now beyond what is
Swaminarayan. His principles were established to required to sustain a healthy, prosperous life. It
prevent families from suffering this pain. is said, “The earth provides enough to satisfy
One may naturally counter and suggest that every man’s need, but not every man’s greed.”
a desire for wealth leads to such consequences This discussion on individual carelessness and
in the most extreme of circumstances, and the misplaced priorities also applies to the large
sequence of events that has lead to the modern corporations who have provided the means for
financial crisis are unlikely to be repeated. slapdash individuals to embark upon their dan-
However, as Pramukh Swami Maharaj states, gerous journey of debt.
“There is no reason to believe that money alone BC Forbes, founder of the Forbes Business
brings happiness. One who is rich has many Magazine believes, “The man who has won mil-
dangers to face. One who owns expensive pos- lions at the cost of his conscience is a failure.”
sessions is ever concerned about safeguarding The corporations who were recording massive
such articles. Today, many have progressed and revenues from their ethically questionable prac-
accumulated wealth, yet with this comes the tises ultimately failed and brought many others
problem of taxes that burdens the mind. Wealth to their knees. Thus, the conclusion of the prin-
and materialistic possessions yield initial happi- ciples established by Bhagwan Swaminarayan is
ness, but within them are intrinsic problems. that sometimes, when you hold out for every-
Thus, even the rich are unhappy and that is thing, you walk away with nothing.
why Tulsidas says happiness lies in God and his ◆
holy Sadhu...”
16 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
INDIAN HISTORY: DR. MOHANBHAI I. PATEL (D.SC)

Reconnect the Disconnection

ome time ago Dr. K.B. Kushal of the Indian civilization, which was based on the pil-

S Dayanand Institute of Education, Man-

agement and Research was honoured
by the Indian Planetary Society with the presen-
lars of education, culture, research and health
came to be described as a giant mass of people
inhabiting a continent needing to be taught by
tation of a Lifetime Achievement Award. On the Western world.
that occasion, he spoke of the challenges of the However, Dr. Kushal said that contrary to
21st century. In particular, he stressed that Western propaganda and our own ignorance,
knowledge, more than material wealth, is going knowledge has always been given a place of
to be the most powerful asset. Already we know prime importance. He referred to vidya and
how important information and knowledge are while he was speaking parallel thinking went on
in shaping the course of the economy of all in my mind about what a great knowledge soci-
nations, large and small. ety our own civilization was in the past. Dr.
He lamented that though in ancient India Kushal, reminded us of ‘Jnãnam param balam’ –
there was recognition of knowledge, due to the ‘Knowledge is the greatest strength’ and a
continuous aggressions on the country over the stream of similar sayings. Sutras and couplets
last 1000 years, it became disconnected and we based on vidya started coming to my mind:
became lost, resulting in an era where we were ÿ·Ê¢ Ÿ ÁfllÊ Ÿ ì٠Ÿ ŒÊŸ¢, ôÊÊŸ¢ Ÿ ‡ÊË‹¢ Ÿ ªÈáÊÙ Ÿ œ◊¸—–
looked upon as an ignorant, backward society. Ã ◊àÿ¸‹Ù∑§ ÷ÈÁfl ÷Ê⁄U ÷ÍÃÊ ◊ŸÈcÿM§¬áÊ ◊ΪÊp⁄UÁãÃH
April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 17
 “Those who lack wisdom, austerity, generosi- books is not knowledge and wealth in the hands
ty, character, virtues and dharma are a burden of others is not wealth.”
on this earth and merely roam around like ani- Charak and Sushrut gave their writings on
mals.” medicine and surgery, respectively. Charak’s
Chanakya has said: treatizes on Ayurveda are still very good and
¬˝Õ◊ ŸÊÁ¡¸ÃÊ ÁfllÊ ÁmÃËÿ ŸÊÁ¡¸Ã¢ œŸ◊˜– being used in practice. Sushrut is known to
ÃÎÃËÿ ŸÊÁ¡¸Ã¢ ¬Èáÿ¢ øÃÈÕ¸ Á∑¢§ ∑§Á⁄UcÿÁÃH have performed more than 400 types of opera-
“One who does not acquire knowledge in tions including 23 delicate eye operations. This
childhood, wealth in youth, merits in middle was around 600 BCE.
age, what will he achieve in old age?” Then there was Varahamihir whose studies
And how important was knowledge to us: helped to calculate the distance between vari-
ÁfllÊ ŸÊ◊ Ÿ⁄USÿ M§¬◊Áœ∑¢§ ¬˝ë¿UÛÊ-ªÈ#¢ œŸ¢ ous planets and the earth, and who was also the
ÁfllÊ ÷Ùª∑§⁄UË ÿ‡Ê— ‚Èπ∑§⁄UË ÁfllÊ ªÈL§◊Ê¢ ªÈL§—– first to use the words anu (atom) and paramanu
ÁfllÊ ’¢œÈ¡ŸÙ ÁflŒ‡Êª◊Ÿ ÁfllÊ ¬⁄¢U ŒÒflâ (sub-atomic particle).
ÁfllÊ ⁄UÊ¡‚È ¬ÍÖÿÃ Ÿ ÃÈ œŸ¢ ÁfllÊ-Áfl„UËŸ— ¬‡ÊÈ—H Around the sixth century CE Aryabhatt
“Knowledge is a form of man – it is hidden carried out new research and contributed
wealth; it brings pleasures, fame and happiness some new developments. The most important
and it is the guru of all gurus. On foreign lands was calculating the relationship between the
it is one’s friend; it is equal to the best of devas. circumference and diameter of a circle as
Knowledge is revered in a king’s court, not 3.141 (pi).
wealth; a person without knowledge is like an Kanad, who lived on the banks of the River
animal.” Narmada, did research in atomic science. Baud-
Dr. Kushal spoke of our society having hayan’s Theorem, originally in Sanskrit, was
always been a knowledge society. taught to the Greeks and later came to be
Somehow we got disconnected from our known as Pythagoras’ Theorem. Also, our
past. Now, when knowledge is such a great numerals from one to ten passed from us to
source of power, it is very pertinent and nec- Europe via the Arabs and so came to be known
essary that we connect back to our past to as Arabic numerals. The zero was invented in
gain inspiration. We must develop the fields of India, without which present day mathematics
science, technology, economics, and others, and computer science would not have been pos-
not only for our own uplift but also to con- sible. In fact, logarithms and algebra were also
tribute to the world, as we were doing in the developed here in India and arithmetic was
past. always given the highest importance in our
And what a glorious past it was! scriptures:
Chanakya gave the first treatize on political ÿÕÊ Á‡ÊπÊ ◊ÿÍ⁄UÊáÊÊ¢ »§ÁáŸÊ¢ ◊áÊÿÙ ÿÕÊ–
science (Niti). He gave his first treatize on eco- ÃÕÊ flŒÊãà ‡ÊÊùÊáÊÊ¢ ªÁáÊâ ◊Íœ¸ÁŸ ÁSÕÃ◊˜H
nomics, Arthashastra, in 400 BCE – which is “Just as a feather decorates the head of a
more than 1,100 years prior to the father of peacock, a gem decorates the head of a snake,
economics in the West, Adam Smith, who wrote similarly, mathematics is the decoration of
Wealth of Nations in 1776. Vedanta and other Shastras.”
Chanakya says: In the 12th century the scientist
¬ÈSÃ∑§·È ÁSÕÃÊ ÁfllÊ ¬⁄U„USÃ· ÿŒÈœŸ◊˜– Bhaskaracharya of Amravati, Maharashtra, was
∑§CÔU∑§Ê‹ ‚◊Èà¬ãŸ Ÿ‚Ê ÁfllÊ Ÿ ÃÈ œŸ◊˜H the first to observe the principle of gravitation.
“In times of need, knowledge stored away in (contd. on page 22)

18 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

DISCOURSES: TRANSLATION: SADHU AMRUTVIJAYDAS

Niyam,
Nishchay, Paksh
Nishchay, Paksh
Swamishri’s discourse during the evening
satsang assembly in Gondal on
17 March 1999.
and Somla looked at each other and said to
each other, “Today there is a feast of dudhpak
and malpuva, and Maharaj himself is serving.
How can we forego such an opportunity? So
let’s give up the niyam of not eating rice, and
hat are the qualities of a staunch take the niyam of not eating wheat instead.”

W satsangi? Shriji Maharaj describes

a staunch satsangi as one who has
niyam, nishchay and paksh.
Having changed their niyam, they consumed a
heavy meal of dudhpak and malpuva.
The next day a delicious meal of sata and
Shriji Maharaj has laid down niyams in the jalebi was prepared. Everyone sat down to eat.
Shikshapatri. Some are common to all, some Sura and Somla thought, “These items contain
are specific for men, some for women, and wheat. Yesterday we changed our pledge and
some for people of special status. To observe decided not to eat wheat. But now let’s switch
these niyams is the characteristic of a staunch back to our original pledge – not to eat rice.”
satsangi. It is not proper if one does not follow So, do not observe niyams in this manner.
these niyams, to it is not proper. So sincerely Fluctuating like this does not bring stability in
observe the niyams Shriji Maharaj has given in observing niyams. If there is a steady flow of water,
the Shikshapatri. To observe his niyams is a even if it is just drop-by-drop, then it will develop
measure of one’s staunchness and all who have into a large pool of water. But if you pour only a
observed them have earned the blessings of bucketful occasionally, then it will all evaporate.
God. Niyams must be followed daily. But if one So a niyam is a niyam and should not be trans-
observes them one day and skips them the next gressed. Everyone must perform puja every
day and so on, then they will not bear fruit. A morning. If someone thinks, I’ll do it tomorrow, or
child who goes to school daily will benefit, the day after, or in the evening or the afternoon,
while one who does not attend will not. then the niyam will not be upheld. So it is
Many Kathis Darbars travelled with Maharaj. Maharaj’s agna for all to bathe and do puja in the
Among them were Sura Khachar and Somla morning. Read one Vachanamrut and five
Khachar. They decided to undertake a niyam, so Swamini Vato daily. Read the Shikshapatri, turn
that Maharaj would be pleased. Thus, they five malas and offer five dandvats daily. One must
pledged not to eat anything containing rice. The attend the Sunday assembly at the mandir, and as
next day, a meal of tasty dudhpak (sweetened per Yogiji Maharaj’s agna reach there on time (at
milk, rice and condiments) and malpuva was the start). In fact, take your seat a few minutes
prepared. All the sadhus and devotees sat down before starts, and leave only after the arti. This
to eat and then Maharaj began to serve. Sura way, one can be said to have obeyed the agna

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 19

properly. Otherwise, by coming late, one may good. By fulfilling one’s wishes there may crise
think that the niyam has been observed, but not difficulties or miseries. So, no matter what
so for the entire duration. If someone comes to hardships one faces, one’s nischay must be firm.
meet you, bring them with you or tell them to All those who have had unwavering nischay
come later. But at that time it is Swami’s (Yogiji have never had any problems.
Maharaj’s) agna, so reach the assembly on time. If one is facing death and God is there before
By following such niyams, one gets peace in life. you, then not to think ‘Why doesn’t God protect
Then there is nischay. Nischay is the firm belief me?’ is true nischay. It reflects the belief that
that Bhagwan Swaminarayan is supreme, the whatever he does is for my ultimate good.
avatari of all avatars, the cause of all causes, the Prahlad faced many hardships. His father
Master of Akshardham, the form of Purushottam tried to kill him, but Prahlad’s nischay did not
Narayan and he manifested on earth for the waver. He continued to pray to and worship
kalyan of the jivas. There is no difference between God. His father was powerful and king of the
the form in Akshardham and that which is here. three realms, yet Prahlad offered worship only
There is not even the slightest trace of maya in to God. His nischay was so strong that although
him. One should have nischay in God like one’s there were many attempts to kill him, he never
firm conviction that a mango tree is a mango tree doubted God’s greatness.
and a neem tree is a neem tree. Even if one is Bhagatji Maharaj also faced many difficul-
awakened from deep sleep this conviction should ties, but he, too, was firm.
persist. Simiarly, the conviction for Shriji Maharaj So, no matter what difficulties one faces,
must remain. No matter what actions he performs never resort to superstitions. Continue to pray
or what he says, but he is divine. He is totally pure to God. Have the conviction that whatever God
and he has no prejudices. This firm belief must wills – happiness or misery – one’s nischay will
remain forever. But if one day one praises and the not change. ‘Dãsnã dushman Hari ke di na hoy.’
next day one doubts, that is not true nischay. – ‘God is never the enemy of his devotees.’
Alaiya Khachar, at first understood this glory Now paksh. Paksh is to give firm support to
and brought 2000 into satsang, convincing them God and his devotees, no matter what difficulties
that by having refuge in Maharaj they will one has to face. In Vachanamrut Gadhada III-7,
attain moksha. Then he changed and began crit- Shriji Maharaj says that for one who wants kalyan,
icizing Maharaj, claiming that he is not God, there is nothing more able to give one pleasure
but a false Brahmin and that no one should go than God and his Sadhu. Just as one protects one’s
to Gadhada. In the Vachanamrut Maharaj has body and one’s relatives, one must protect God
said that one who does this will not experience and his devotees. Even if one’s son is at fault, one
peace. Swami says that such a person does not sides with him. This is atmabuddhi, since one
have true nischay. So, once nischay is firmly believes him to be one’s own. Such atmabuddhi in
established it must never waver. A mango tree God and his devotees is true paksh. Under no cir-
may not bear mangos, but it is still a mango cumstances should such paksh be abandoned –
tree – that is its original nature. There is no whether one faces death or injury, or honour or
change in that. So, one may or may not expe- insult. So, one should help support devotees of
tence miracles, one’s wishes may or may not be God to the best of one’s ability.
fulfilled, but still Shriji Maharaj is God. Just Thus, one with firm niyam, nischay and
because he may not fulfil one’s wishes does not paksh is a staunch satsangi. May all be blessed
mean he is not God. Even if he does not fulfil with such virtues. ◆
one’s wishes, whatever he does is for one’s
20 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
ON LIFE: UK KISHORE MANDAL

Who’s in Control?

t’s just gone past two o’clock on a chilly think of Maharaj and Swamishri and pray to

I but bright afternoon in January. You’re

on a plane at London’s Heathrow Airport,
waiting to take off. Your mind is already con-
him to look after you, and to help you, to save
you in your time of need.
The above story will no doubt ring a bell in
sumed by thoughts of the warmth of Dubai – your mind. A very similar incident occurred in
your destination. Half an hour later, the captain the city of New York on Thursday 15 January
announces, “Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your 2009. Minutes after take-off from La Guardia
captain speaking. I’m afraid we will be depart- Airport, a plane carrying 155 people, hit a flock
ing at approximately 3.00 p.m., slightly later of birds, and Captain Chesley Sullenberger
than scheduled.” A few passengers sigh at the quickly took the decision to ditch his plane in
announcement whilst you fidget with your seat the River Hudson, which splits Manhattan and
belt. New Jersey.
The time eventually passes and the plane Landing a commercial airliner in water is
roars into the air. Unusually, a few minutes after extremely rare and landing it successfully
take-off, the plane shakes considerably, and the requires an extremely high degree of skill. The
distinct smell of smoke engulfs your nostrils. fate of the other 154 people onboard the plane
Once again, the captain makes an announce- lay in the hands of Captain Sullenberger. His
ment, “Brace for impact!” heroic actions meant that, apart from one pas-
Panic circulates through your veins. You look senger who suffered two broken legs, no one
outside through the window to see you’re about suffered any serious injury.
to land on water. With your eyes closed, you As the plane came down into the water, each

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 21

passenger would have been fully aware that standing that the results of our labour are for
they were not in control of whether they would Maharaj to decide. It is also important to know
live to see the next day. Less dramatically, in our that we are much more likely to succeed by
day to day lives, there are also many times working hard since it is this which will earn us
when we are not in control and our fate does Swamishri’s grace, and it is only his grace which
not lie in our hands. For example, as you sit on will deliver the results we crave.
a bus, ultimately the bus driver is in control. The hustle and bustle of modern-day life can
When you sit an exam, obviously thorough result in much tension, anxiety and stress, even
preparation significantly increases the chances in the life of a satsangi. Yet again, the under-
of success, but ultimately the person who sets standing of Maharaj as the all-doer can provide
and marks the exam will determine your result immense benefit on this front. Swamishri often
– it is they who are in control! says that we should work hard and sincerely in
But ultimately, Bhagwan Swaminarayan and all aspects of our life and keep total faith in
our beloved Guruhari Pramukh Swami Maharaj whatever fruits that Bhagwan Swaminarayan
are in control. They are the all-doers. It is their dispenses. After all, it is said, “Dãsnã dushman
will that prevails. In the Swamini Vato, Gunati- Hari ke’di hoy nahi, jem karshe tem sukhaj
tanand Swami has said, “God is the all-doer. If thãshe”, which means that God can never be the
we want to sleep now we cannot, and once enemy of his devotee and whatever he does will
asleep even if a thief comes and robs us, we are result in happiness for the devotee. It may be a
unable to wake up. Thus, God is the all-doer.” short phrase but it can eliminate a lot of stress
So, what does this discourse mean for us as from our lives, if we remember it every day as
satsangi students? Does it now mean that we we encounter the ups and downs of life.
shouldn’t study hard for our exams because the So, remember: “Who is in control?”
results are in Maharaj’s hands? No, it in fact Nilkanth (Newsletter), UK, January 2009
means the opposite. We should still work ◆
extremely hard but with the additional under-

(contd. from page 18) So, we should reconnect to our rich tempo-
He designed the Khand Meru which thereafter ral and spiritual knowledge, which was over-
travelled to Europe and came to be known as shadowed and lost in some parts for 1000
Pascal’s Triangle. Also, we can go on listing the years due to foreign suppression and
great contributions to science by Brahmagupta, hegeanony.
Nagarjuna and many others. Now is the time to realize the true value of
Universities like Nalanda, Takshashila, our inheritance. Appreciate what is ours, co-ordi-
Ujjain, Vallabhipur and others flourished in dif- nate it with what is available from elsewhere
ferent parts of India. At these universities and proceed from here to more effective and
research was carried out, theses were written productive civilized behaviour where self
and knowledge was spread all over the world respect, dignity and originality become the order
through different channels. This is what H.G. of the day. In short, reconnect the disconnection
Rawlinson observed, “India suffers today in the and move forward.
estimation of the world, more through the ◆
world’s ignorance of her achievements than in
the absence or insignificance of her achieve-
ments.”
22 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009
BAPS: EDUCATION

THE SWAMINARAYAN SCHOOL, NAGPUR

Inaugurated in 1997 by HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj,
The Swaminarayan School in Nagpur, at present, caters for
students from Pre-Primary to Standard 12. Affiliated to the
Central Board of Secondary Education, this English-medi-
um school has attained a high pass rate in the Standard 10
Board exams.
Also, residential facilities for students of Standard 4 and above are available in the purpose-
built hostel.
The Swaminarayan School provides a pleasant study atmosphere, well-equipped infrastructure
and a sound value-based education that grooms students for their future careers and lives.
To apply for admission for the next academic year contact:

SHRI SWAMINARAYAN MANDIR

244 East Wardhman Nagar, Swaminarayan Marg,
Nagpur-440 008, India.
Ph.: 09372735888 (Chhatralay) 09325464349 (Gruhpati)

BAPS SWAMINARAYAN VIDYAMANDIR

Atladara, Vadodara

Admissions Open for Nursery to Class X.

Hostel facilities available for Class V and above.

■ English Medium Residential and Day School for Boys; GSEB Affiliated.
■ Offers admission from Nursery to Class IX.
■ Adding Class X from June 2009; Class XI & XII (Science & Commerce) from June 2010 &
2011.
■ Excellent residential facilities with provision for remedial coaching classes if needed.
■ Modern catering facilities to serve nutritious and hygienic food to more than 400 boys.
■ Staffed with a dedicated team of qualified and experienced teachers.
■ Importance of extra-curricular activities stressed along with regular academic schedule.

Please contact or visit our school for boys with your

ward for entrance test and admission.

The Director,
BAPS SWAMINARAYAN VIDYAMANDIR
Atladara, Vadodara-390012
Fax: (0265) 2680 080, Ph. 999 899 1045/46/42
E-mail: [email protected]

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 23

BAPS FESTIVAL

Fuldol Celebration
Sarangpur, 11 March 2009

ver 60,000 devotees from throughout ness and wealth, whereas the inconveniences

O India and abroad gathered in

Sarangpur for the grand double cele-
bration of Bhagatji Maharaj’s 180th Birthday
tolerated here are for the kalyan of one’s atma.
The purpose of this human body is to attain
kalyan. Gunatitanand Swami used to say, ‘This
and Pushpadolotsav in the presence of Pramukh body is for becoming akshar-rup and worship-
Swami Maharaj. ping Purushottam.’ So, these difficulties are tol-
Held on the spacious grounds of the BAPS erated for attaining ultimate kalyan and the
Vidyamandir, Sarangpur, the evening celebra- divine bliss of God.
tion assembly began with inspiring speeches by “Worldly desires, attachments and one’s
senior sadhus and bhajans. Afterwards, publica- nature are all forms of maya. Prayers are
tions by Swaminarayan Aksharpith in Gujarati, offered so that they do not hinder. To overcome
Telugu, Kannad and Tamil were inaugurated by maya, the refuge of God is required. To cross
Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Amrutvani 13, a the ocean, a small boat is of no use, one needs
selection of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s audio a large ship. Thus, God is the large ship that
blessings over the past year, was also released. helps one to cross the ocean of maya. We have
Thereafter, Swamishri blessed the assembly, the association of greats like Gunatitanand
“Yogiji Maharaj used to talk about ‘bhida bhak- Swami, Shastriji Maharaj and Yogiji Maharaj
ti’. You all understand the glory and divinity of and so should attach to them. How does one
Akshar and Purushottam, Shastriji Maharaj and attach to them? By following their wishes and
Yogiji Maharaj, respect their work and so you commands one will experience inner bliss and
all tolerate such difficulties here. eternal peace. As one’s satsang is strengthened
“All have been tolerating hardships for attachment for the world diminishes.
countless births. But that was for worldly happi- “One tolerates hardships to gain worldly

24 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

 they describe the glory of God.
“Shriji Maharaj is manifest Purushottam. His
divine abode is Gunatit. Shastriji Maharaj and
Yogiji Maharaj are bestowers of moksha. This
understanding must be strengthened. Bhagatji
Maharaj has tolerated a lot and never had any
pleasures. So, to attain kalyan of the atma one doubts in obeying the commands. Similarly, if
should cheerfully and patiently tolerate difficul- we strengthen this knowledge then whatever
ties. In life, one sometimes gets happiness and happiness or misery, honour or insult we face
sometimes gets misery. But amid this, one there will be no problems.
should retain stability (of mind) with the under- “All devotees of God have faced problems,
standing that whatever God does is for one’s but they have remained firm and never given
benefit. A doctor may inflict pain through injec- up. Because they had sacrificed everything for
tions or operations, but one believes that it will God, their knowledge gave them happiness.
cure the disease. This is the knowledge of Akshar and Purushot-
“Before, business and work were good and tam. The deeper this knowledge the greater
everyone was happy, but now there is a reces- one’s happiness and peace.”
sion and everyone is worried about what will Then, senior sadhus garlanded Swamishri
happen. But if we believe that whatever God with garlands of different materials devoutly
does will be for our good, we will experience prepared by various satsang centres.
peace of mind since God is the all-doer. This was followed by pujan and arti of Shri
“Out of ignorance one feels that one has lost Harikrishna Maharaj and Swamishri spraying
everything, but we all know and understand Shri Harikrishna Maharaj with saffron-scented
that (when we die) we will not take anything water as the sadhus sang Vedic verses.
with us. Everything will remain here. The more Finally, Swamishri sat on a specially pre-
satsang one practices and the more reading of pared rath and for one hour slowly coursed
shastras – Bhagvat, Gita, Swamini Vato, through the sadhus and devotees seated in the
Vachanamrut, Bhaktachintamani and others – assembly, drenching everyone with sanctified
one does, the more peace one experiences since saffron-scented water. ◆

April 2009 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 25

 B A P S BAPS NEWS N E W S
ROYAL COUPLE VISIT
THE SWAMINARAYAN SCHOOL, LONDON
Wednesday 4 March 2009
March 2009 to celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi.
After the mandir visit the royal couple visit-
ed the school where they listened to traditional
Indian music, sat with children of the Prep
School and took part in the Holi-themed activi-
ties. They then went to the Senior School where
they visited an arts class. Finally, the royal cou-
ple observed children playing Holi in the tradi-
tional manner of throwing coloured powder and
spraying each other with water. The pupils were
showered with flower petals by the royal couple
as a token gesture of their having taken part in
is Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, the festival.

H accompanied by Her Royal Highness

The Duchess of Cornwall, visited the
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and The
Following a Holi dance depicting the advent
of spring, the royal couple were presented with
mementos by the Head Girl and Head Boy of
Swaminarayan School, London, on Wednesday 4 the Senior School before bidding farewell. ◆

NATIONAL FAMILY SEMINARS

‘NURTURING HAPPY FAMILIES’
March 2009, UK
s part of BAPS Swaminarayan The seminars educated families through

A Sanstha’s ‘International Family Year’

the theme of this year’s Family
Seminars was ‘Nurturing Happy Families’.
speeches, presentations, interviews, videos and
interactive programmes on the theme, ‘The fami-
ly that sits together, plays together, works togeth-
The Seminars began with a reading of er and prays together stays together.’ The topics
Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s blessings: “From the covered included: ‘Family Time – Ghar Sabha’,
Swamini Vato and the life of Shastriji Maharaj ‘Sitting Together’, ‘Working Together’, and
and Yogiji Maharaj, one can learn how to practise ‘Praying Together’, ‘Playing Together’, ‘Family
Satsang and perform one’s duties so that one can Workshop’ and ‘Staying Together’. The families
experience peace continually. Therefore, the left with a strong commitment to do ghar sabha
more we engage in reading these books and at least twice a week. Some of the sessions were
strengthen our Satsang and also contemplate on conducted according to different age groups,
the way in which the gurus lived their lives, then while some were held as family sessions.
when we face challenges in our lives, we will also Seminars were held in Leicester, Ashton and
experience happiness and be able to lead a suc- two in London, with a total of 428 families
cessful life; our children will also become happy (1694 people) attending.
through this same inspiration.” ◆

26 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ April 2009

 1

ROYAL VISIT TO LONDON MANDIR AND

THE SWAMINARAYAN SCHOOL
On 4 March 2009, HRH Prince Charles and HRH Duchess of
Cornwell visited the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir and The
Swaminarayan School in London.
After a traditional welcome and darshan in the mandir, the royal
couple visited the school, which is ranked as one of the best
private schools in England.
1. The Prince and Duchess in the mandir observing the rangoli
after having darshan of the deities. 2. Joyous reception by the
staff and children of The Swaminarayan School. 3. The royal
couple observed the various cultural and artistic activities of the
3 school children.
Over 60,000 devotees feel blessed during the grand Fuldol celebration in Sarangpur, 11.3.2009