Ulhas no Rang

‘Kshanbhangur duniya ma satpurush no samagam ej amulya ane anupam labh chhe.’
- Param Krupalu Dev

With this sentiment in our consciousness, we all set out to observe Holi under the divine shelter of P.P. Bhaishree. The location chosen for this event was a spacious and picturesque guest house at Kalyan BMC water filtration plant. The name of the river seemed to complement the emotions surging in our heart, ‘Ulhas’, loosely translated as exuberance and joy.

A beautiful view greeted us when we reached: orange sun rays splayed at the horizon framing the lush green of the grass and the quiet blue of the still waters. These natural colours of the universe set the mood for the day.

Our eagerly awaited day started with a sumptuous breakfast, after which it was time to provide food for our hungry souls. The swadhyay was flagged off by Br. Vikrambhai and Nimit singing, ‘Anand rang Prabhu tera rang’. It was now Br. Minalben’s turn, who with her characteristic charm, urged P.P. Bhaishree to empower us to be able to burn our negativities in the Holi bonfire. Br Vikrambhai and Hiren then sang the evergreen and all-time favorite bhajan, ‘Jogi re kya jaadu hai tere pyaar mein’.

Br Vikrambhai highlighted in his typically expressive and eloquent style the importance of Holi by saying that people humbly render their gratitude to Lord Agni, the god of fire, by offering gram and stalks from the harvest. By doing so, they are repaying the loan rendered to them by Lord Agni. Hence this is a festival when we need to say a heartfelt thank you to all those who have done anything for us no matter how small or big it is.

Since a long time now, P.P.Bhaishree has been dwelling on topics that not only enable us to spot our weaknesses but also provide us with clear and precise way to eradicate them. This time, he taught us how to pull up spiritually while at the same time balance our sansar by inculcating the quality of ‘Swawalamban’ (self-dependence). Through the example of Little Prahlad and Holika, he conveyed how a person whose heart is filled with bhakti and has purity of mind can conquer any difficulties that come his way.

Elaborating further on the quality of Swawalamban, P.P.Bhaishree said that success knocks only on the doors of those who strive to find and make their own doors. Only those who have applied this golden rule in their lives have succeeded. Citing another aspect of Swawalamban, P.P.Bhaishree further said nobody can be your support until you support yourself. We have to believe in ourselves. God has given us innumerable strengths, tolerance, ability, enthusiasm and spiritual power. We need to harness these and move ahead.
P.P.Bhaishree said that only a person who believes in recognizing challenges and testing himself can move ahead in life. The negativity of those around us should never be given the power to curtail or inhibit us. Stressing his point further, P.P.Bhaishree quoted Swami Ramtirth who has said that “In all aspects of life, independence is my main asset as this provides me with an answer to a lot of questions.”

During his discourse, P.P.Bhaishree took up a very crucial point. He pointed out that we are the ones who decide our own worth. The world just accepts our portrayal. So, we need to respect ourselves for others to respect us.

P.P.Bhaishree then lit a lamp in our hearts when he said that, a person who has undoubting faith in Satdev, Satguru and Satdharma and who does all his agnaas with dedication is sure to break through the shackles of ignorance. However, he also said three other qualities of independence, internal awareness and introspection of one’s deeds and thoughts are equally important.

He further said that we need to believe in ourselves and also in our ability to tackle all that comes our way with equanimity and peace. P.P.Bhaishree then said that all of the above is possible only when our faith is so strong that it cannot be deterred by anybody.

As a parting message, P.P.Bhaishree said that, Holika can only burn the negativities of a person who chooses to live like this. As we stay pre-occupied and run frenzied in our sansar, shades of negativity begin to envelop our minds but just like the sun that had by now started casting its bright light on the Earth; our minds too got illuminated and warmed by positivity, happiness and faith, thanks to P.P.Bhaishree’s powerful blessings and words.

After swadhyay, we prepared for the holy tilak. Holi is the only occasion in the entire year when P.P. Bhaishree personally places the holy tilak on the forehead of each and every disciple. Hence, every devotee craves and cherishes this moment. The devotee in turn wows to walk on the path chalked out by his guru, thereby diminishing the distance that separates them.

There was a buzz of excitement as P.P.Bhaishree began the process of applying tilak. His eyes brimmed with love and compassion for each disciple in equal measure. Thus blessed, we then danced to the tunes of pious bhajans; every step and breath filled with devotion.

After garba, we all surrounded P.P.Bhaishree as he once again blessed us by sprinkling rose water. Holi is an occasion that should not be missed by any disciple as it gives each and every soul ample opportunities to be blessed individually by his physically manifest god. These waters acted like a coolant to eliminate the fire of negativity from our lives.

We then gathered for a delicious lunch comprising mouth-watering delicacies. After lunch, it was time to part. P.P.Bhaishree departed but only after reminding us again that the quality of swawalamban should be ingrained in our lives.

After his care left, there was a sudden void in the atmosphere. But his love made us feel complete, cleansed and purified. Our hearts were filled with joy. It was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful days of our lives. It was there and then, that we resolved to strengthen our focus and make firm efforts to invest in the path shown by our savior.

(Click image to enlarge)

Compassionate Bhaishree & Minalben listening to the plight of villagers suffering from drought.

 દેવચન્દ્રજી કૃત  ચોથા અભિનંદનજીન સ્તવન  

Here at vani [વણી ] tirth, the last destination of our Nasik Dharmayatra (January 2013), we shall try to understand the 4th AbhinandanjinStavan written by the great Devchandraji Maharaj, who inducted himself in pure self-restraint. As prescribed by Tirthankar Bhagwan he became a Jain monk and zealously followed the supreme religion of the soul.

Being a spiritual soul, our only ultimate goal of this life and there after is to seek emancipation ( liberating our soul from pain, misery and sorrow born out of constant reincarnation). To make this final goal possible we shall have to realize several intermediate goals which keep changing  in accordance to our progress.

Each of these immediate goals helps us to ascend on the ladder of spirituality or take us further on the pathway to Moksh. In our journey, these are like milestones, cheering and motivating us, to work harder as the last goal has become more nearer more achievable.

Each temple or place of pilgrimage is very important and essential as it helps us to be near Vitrag Bhagwan, who is quintessence of infinite equanimity, peace, bliss and knowledge. First and foremost we  need to idolize and lovingly worship them. In praise and prayers it is essential that we stay in their close proximity and hence precisely in this 4th Abhinandanjin stavan DevchandrajiMaharaj deeply and candidly ponders on the question of how we shall come near.

Let’s try and study the first stanza of this holy composition,

કયું જાણું કયું બની આવશે અભિનંદન રસ રીતી હો મિત્ત 
પુદગલ અનુભવ ત્યાગથી, કરવી જસુ પરતીત હો મિત્ત   

O! My friend, though I have complete faith in Vitrag Abhinandan Bhagwan, but still, at this moment I feel uncertain of what shall make me absolutely curious? How will I develop deep interest in knowing him? If at all I get attracted by his pious charms then who will make me aware of his true inherent nature. How will I closely come near to Him?

On contemplation, it seems that first I need to retract and disengage myself from various worldly objects and matters. Indulging in them I get so involved and lost that it becomes impossible to focus and concentrate on Him. Significance drives interest and interest builds concentration and concentration parts experience that impels our intelligence to unearth what is still not known. O! My well-wisher this seems the way, the path that I need to adopt.

પરમાતમ પરમેશ્વરુ, વસ્તુગતે તે અલિપ્ત હો મિત્ત
દ્રવ્યે દ્રવ્ય મિલે નહીં, ભાવે તે અન્ય અવ્યાપ્ત હો મિત્ત 

Looking at myself, I am the sum total of all that I can call is mine. Starting from my physical body and my psychic powers, family, ancestors, friends, clothes, house, wealth, my reputation and profession, these are the means by which I know myself and how someone else can relate and identify me.

Consecrated in your pure consciousness my lord O! Supremely divine AbhinandanBhagwan, you have detached and disassociated yourself from all of these. Therefore how do I perceive and relate to you?

As I understand, the awareness, the true self is so different from the various experiences that it endures. Being intangible it has no shape colour odor or taste. O! My savior,  AbhinandanBhagwan, you in your transcending nature cannot be seen. Even if I could see you, you are so entirely and singularly focused to your own being and thus would not even acknowledge my presence. Persistently inhabiting, within the boundaries of your nature you are so uniquely separate thus how do I be coherent to your sovereign existence. Two discretely different substances do not unite and always stay in their lone identity so how will I be intrinsic with you?

શુદ્ધ સ્વરૂપ સનાતનો નિર્મલ જે નીસંગ હો મિત્ત   
આત્મ વિભૂતે પરિણમ્યો, ન કરે તે પરસંગ હો મિત્ત 

In this self-regulated universe, the cosmic wheel of time rotates ceaselessly. The soul, matter, time, space and principles of motion have always existed. Each soul is uniquely exclusive and is not created by any external elements. When we perceive from the fundamental or principle view-point the worldly souls may get externally obscured by karmic influx but internally they remain divinely pure. It’s nature does not get brewed or compounded by anything. Intact in its own characteristic it forever remains what it is.

O! Peerless and perfect Abhinandan Bhagwan, through penance and austerities you have cleansed and purified your soul. Not even the minutest part of your soul remains externally masked by any karmic particles. Settled in profound equanimity, you are transparently clear. No attraction or aversion just sublime awareness of the self. While my soul is still tainted and contaminated. O! The most noble and divinely pure Bhagwan you have reclaimed and instituted yourself in such excellence so how do I, an unworthy poor soul reach out to you? How shall I befriend and patronize you?

પણ જાણું અગમબળે, મીલવું તુમ પ્રભુ સાથ હો મિત્ત   
પ્રભુ તો સ્વસંપત્તિમયી, શુદ્ધ સ્વરૂપનો નાથ હો મિત્ત 

Jain faith and ideology speak of life’s infinite potential and the way to its realization. Every single living being has inherent ability to survive, stay safe, be contented, free itself from shackles of karmic bondage and experience its eternal, peaceful and blissful nature. Happily optimistic I am now eager to follow the 14 ancient texts that contain your direct teachings. A number of other parallel scriptural traditions also continue to keep the essence of your preaching. Wide variety of subjects are so well analysed in these Agamsutras. Owing to lifelong experiences of deep meditation and rigorous conduct, the torch-bearer of your reign Shree Sadguru simplifies those profound and complex concepts. Hearing and understanding the scriptures from Sadguru, I shall in my broad contemplation, acquire knowledge and find the road map to reach you. For being near and dear to Abhinandan Bhagwan we first need to be close to Bhaishree, surely in Him we shall find Abinandan Bhagwan. 

Beholding you in my eyes I can evidently discover that you are so immersed in your divine self. You are the king of your inner kingdom. Sitting on the throne of self-consciousness, you hold and govern your real self. Unlike you, I am caught in the web trap of the illusory world. Enslaved by my own desires, I chase, seek, explore all that is not mine and keep on dwelling in distress and agony. Graciously magnanimous, O! Abhinandan Bhagwan, now I can precisely and positively apprehend and deduce the difference, between your greatness and my ghastliness. I am experiencing your abundant grace, as manifesting in my thoughts you are revealing yourself to me. Fully enlightened you are the omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent.

પરપરિણામિકતા અછે, જે તુજ પુદગલ જોગ હો મિત, 
જડ ચલ જગની એઠનો, ન ઘટે તુજને ભોગ હો મિત.   

It’s the happiness that we seek from every aspect of all our pursuits. In complete faith we have tried deriving happiness from various objects and relationships. Unfortunately the happiness if gained at all is just a flash of light, soon followed by various shades of disappointing darkness. Despite of being capable of learning from our past experience we still continue committing the same mistakes.

The bird chatak, thrives only on pure rain water drops and the chakor to its brim would drink the nectar-like moonlight. The hans is able to separate milk and water, drawing our attention to discriminate between good and bad and the eternal and transitory. These birds too can understand and live righteously. Misguided and wrong in my deeds, shall I prove to be even worse than these birds? Will I pursue the same pleasures that have proved to be full of pain. I feel so ashamed and horrible for I am eating the same food that I have earlier chewed and spewed? In the infinite cycle of birth and death I have in repeatedly committed the same mistakes and have endured enormous pain.

Nothing outside ourselves has the power to keep us eternally happy and at the same time nothing of that is capable to keep us clinging to it. Mindfulness, concentration and insight are the inner strength that drives us to compassion, understanding and happiness.

Chasing my desires why do I waste this precious human life-like a deer running after the mirage in a desert. Why can’t I find the musk that is lying within me? Knowing that the great fragrance of divinity is within, I shall now dive deep inside me, to inhale the perfume of self-knowledge. Dwelling in my immortality I shall not get disillusioned by the mortal world. O! bounteous and tender-hearted Bhagwan Abhinandan Swami you now seem to be in my conscience, counseling and controlling me.

શુદ્ધ નીમીત્તી પ્રભુ ગ્રહો, કરી અશુદ્ધ પર હેય હો મિત્ત
આત્માલંબી ગુણલયી, સહુ સાધકનો ધ્યેય હો મિત્ત. 

Sustaining in goodness and being continuously progressive, is what we need to assure for ourselves. Cause and effect if properly studied can help us to sustain in goodness. Many factors influence us and at times we get overshadowed too. Our existence is besieged by duality of life. Good and bad, brighter and the darker side both co-exist within and outside us. It’s our power of discrimination that will make us anchor to all that is only and only good and pure.

Our performance widely depends on these external factors. In this stanza, most skillful and conversant ShriDevchandrajiMaharaj is suggesting a perfect style that would undoubtedly craft our character. Jealousy, hatred, lust, anger, ego, pride, all worries and anxieties, fears, mental torments and tribulations entirely need to be conquered.

Withdrawing from everything that hinders our spiritual evolution, let us bind and bolt ourselves to Lord AbhinandanBhagwan. Under him, we are completely safe and secure. On the path of truth we may face unique problems, but the universal solutions offered from his infinite vision and knowledge would help us in many ways.

Serenely steady with much ease he is resting in his own enclosure of deep self-awareness. Peace and happiness are what we experience by just looking at him. Scanned by His pure gaze we too start shedding the impurities that have made us corrupt and immoral.

For an aspirant his final goal is to be like Him. To achieve this we need to hold on to those main key characteristics of our soul, those important traits that help us to recognize the true me, the nebulous invisible soul.

જીમ જીનવર આલંબને, વધે સધે એકતાન હો મિત્ત,  
તિમ તિમ અત્માંલંબની ગ્રહે સ્વરૂપ નિદાન હો મિત્ત.  

In my contemplation I profoundly think about you. Absorbed in deep meditation, O! AbinandanBhagwan you are fully awakened and liberated. So pure and divinely perfect you are embodiment of countless virtues. Soaked in peace and equanimity I find you to be heavenly delightful.

The ray of your attention is focused towards your innate being, and now, your sacred individuality has been focal point of my concentration. Keeping eye in eye, as I match your steady gaze you are enlightening me. Drenched in showers of your grace I feel so blessed and so fortunate. Your awareness is transpiring and is awakening me too. Noble and pious your holy liveliness is the core point of my meditation. Your brilliance is brightening me. You are the sole reason of my evolution.

My body, my speech, my mind and all my senses, my intellect, my innate being, in absoluteness I offer and surrender to you. The more I become yours the more you reveal yourself to me. In oneness my ego is shrinking and soon it will perish. In veneration I hold you high in me. I immensely adore you O! Colossal of Divine Bliss Abinandan Bhagwan, you are the fragrance of my life and essence of my soul.

સ્વસ્વરૂપ એકત્વતા સાધે પુર્ણાનંદ હો મિત્ત, 
રમે ભોગવે આત્મા રત્નત્રયી ગુણવ્રંદ હો મિત્ત       

Growing in oneness I earnestly keep you alive in me. Even while I carry out my worldly duties, I persistently try to hold on to my self-awareness. In the continuous flow of consciousness, I am experiencing a deep inner sense of peace and tranquility and an innate sense of joy and happiness that has no outer cause.

Knowledge and insight that you have imparted has gifted me those divine eyes by which I can recognize and see the truth. Illusion or delusion can no more cheat or captivate me.

Paying attention to my consciousness I have known that the seeker is the one that is searched for. In the arena of awareness the world emerges and gets exterminated. The awareness is the screen that remains stable and constant while the world projected on it keeps on differing and deviating.

Resting in present the mindfulness integrates my past experience and judiciously leads me to the direction I want to lead myself in future.

Knowing feeling and being is the trinity of  knowledge faith and conduct. Submerged in pure awareness you know you feel and you become what you truly are.

Complete in my consciousness I am the power that knows, does and seeks. Right perception Right Knowledge and Right conduct are the tree jewels that combine the path to Moksh. In my belief of myself I perceive and rest in me. Disease decay or death I have triumphed all and have attained immortal joy and bliss.

અભિનંદન અવલંબને, પરમાનંદ વિલાસ હો મિત્ત,
દેવચંદ્ર પ્રભુ સેવના, કરી અનુભવ અભ્યાસ હો મિત્ત.    

O! AbinandanBhagwan, taking your refuge, I am on a spiritual pilgrimage. In my purposeful expedition I am trying to know how vast, how deep, and how solemn you are. In your company, my life has become a celebration. Till now death had been a dark door to another life but now it shall be gateway to immortality. I am bathing in truth, love and purity that you have showered. In this holy realm there is no fear, no doubt, no indecision only oceanic ecstasy and cosmic consciousness. The experience is simply divine, self manifested and equally compounded of joy and consciousness.

O the lord of lords, you are the altruistic motivator for all those who want to be liberated. You have proved yourself by walking on the path that you profess. By worshiping you I become humbly aware of my faults and weaknesses. My gratitude and love for you has no bounds as you have fully awakened my latent Godliness. With each moment of realization you have enabled me to drink the elixir of immortality. My Saviour O! AbhinandanBhagwan, I am yours and you shall remain mine forever.

Vikram Na Vandan

Shree C.U. Shah, 14-May-1918 to 31-Jan-2013

Making the most and reaping the best out of his 95 fulfilling years, Shri C.U.Shah bid adieu at 12.39pm on Thursday 31st January 2013.  Death for him was a doorway to the plateaus of higher existence. In natural progression he shall now speed up his journey to eternity.

Born on 14 th May1918, Shri C.U.Shah was a true philanthropist, avid educationist and a man of perfection. Charity flowed in every cell of his body.

Though his contribution towards various other causes has been substantial, but education and medical aid have always remained as his favourite fields of charity.

A legendary personality Shri C. U. Shah was a visionary, who dreamt big not for himself but for the well being of the entire human community.

In the form of many different institutions, he has planted numerous trees; all of which have grown tall and broad, and even in his absence they will continue to give shade to many generations to come. Shankar Netralaya, C.U.Shah medical college, engineering college, is to name a few, such 90 institutions today flourish under his name.

What we have done for our self alone dies with us, but what we have done for the world remains and becomes immortal. In gratitude he shall be lovingly remembered for ages as these institutes are to live for many centuries to come.

With him passing away, something important within us has also passed away, and to that extent we are poor today. Passing away of a soul such as Shri C.U.Shah is a big loss, not only to those who knew him but even those who only knew of his extensive charity.

He intelligently gave away his wealth to honest hands, dedicated heart, and persevering mind and therefore, through them he could achieve the purpose sooner then later.

His charity had immense purity and due to his personal care and concern the institutions he established have progressed beyond imagination.

A law graduate, he worked for many years for respected Meghji Pethraj but his dynamism and business acumen excelled him in life to become an able business entrepreneur. Compassion overflowing from his generous heart could sense and realize the pain and needs of the society that he lived in. He had passion to earn not for himself but to serve the society. His efforts were graced by his destiny and he was blessed with profits which he then spent to earn not for his body but for his soul.

At a later age he married Dr Sadgunaben, a highly noble soul. Living in his shadows but under the commands of her Guru P.P.Bapuji she rose to become a quiet saint. Her spiritual heights were such great that Bapuji bestowed his divine reins to her and thereafter she was adoringly and reverently addressed as Gurumaa. Shri C.U.Shah was most fortunate of having such pious life partner.

 Shree C U Shah with PP Bapuji and PP Gurumaa

Minalben, his daughter was a gift of love for him. He raised her like his son. She imbibed all his virtues and today our appreciation for her in many ways is due to his wonderful mentoring. She is a miracle that never ceases to be miraculous in her loving and caring. She was always there besides him taking care of all his needs. While travelling to hospital in his car keeping his hand in hers he left his mortal existence.

Shree Raj Saubhag Satsang Mandal – Sayla is one amongst those great institutes that he has pioneered. In the year 1983 it was majorly from his donations that the trust was able to build a contemporary spiritual retreat. Few years later he too surrendered and became Bapuji’s disciple. For him religion of humanity was fundamental. Understanding him completely Bapuji looked after him in a very special way.

Though his visits to Sayla ashram were few, but his observation was minutely perfect. His valued suggestions and guidance was seriously appreciated and implemented by Bapuji. Till his last breath Shri C.U.Shah was the president of our esteem institution.

Each time when Bapuji returned from Mumbai he would be there in his Mercedes car to honour Bapuji and bid him goodbye at the railway station.

Death is more universal than life as everyone dies but not everyone lives. We salute his spirit, value his principles, treasure his legacy and cherish his memories, for he lived many lives by living just one.

In keeping with the decades old tradition at Raj Saubhag Satsang Mandal, around seventy-five fortunate mumukshus under the auspicious guidance of Pujya Bhaishree embarked on a 5 day dharamayatra to the interiors of Maharashtra commencing on Wednesday , 2^nd Jan 2013 and ending on 6^th Jan Sunday 2013.

We started early at 6 am on day one, taking our first halt of the day at the Shahapur Manas Mandir. The sight of Adinath Bhagwans pratimaji elevated us  in to serenity and tranquility. We took the opportunity to do Pakshal, Pooja, Aarti and Mangal divo. From the temple of Aadinath Bhagwan, we did darshan of the Kshetrapal diety which is basically a heavenly being who protects the temple vicinity.

 We were fortunate to meet  Sadhviji Arpanyasha and her guru Acharya Rajhansji.  Acharya Rajhansji ‘s  composed manner and genuine thirst for liberation left everyone amazed.  Acharyaji in a single line explained the entire path to self realization. He said that “when there is complete immersion of a disciple in his guru, only then can he  achieve the guru Krupa i.e samyak darshan “.

At 2 pm, after having lunch at Shahapur, we left for Dharmachakra tirth and reached there at around 4pm. Our arrival was followed by a swadhyay of Param Pajya Bhaishree . At Dharmachakra the moolnayak is Parshwanathji. On the lower floor of the temple there is a 12ft awe inspiring statue of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami depicting the start of his journey towards enlightenment following  his diksha ceremony.

After freshening up we left for Deolali at 7 pm and went for darshan of  Mahastiji Preetisudhaji and Mahasatiji Madhusmitaji. After expressing mutual happiness and joy of meeting again and reminiscing on previous meetings, we engaged in some spiritual discourses with them.  Preetisudhaji in her melodious voice along with other mahastijis sang a few bhaktipads. We retired back to our rooms on reaching Dharmachakra after having dinner in Deolali.

The second  day i.e 3rd Jan Thursday we left early in the morning for Gajpantha. Gajpantha is a renowned and an auspicious Digamber thirthkshetra. It is believed that seven Balbhadra (elder brothers to the Vasudevs) known as Vijay, Achal, Sudharma , Suprabh, Nandi, Nandimitra and Sudarshan got salvation here. Eight crores other ascetics are also said to have attained salvation from his place. Gajsukumar is also said to have attained liberation from this very place, which is where it gets it’s name from. After a climb of about 400 strenuous steps we reached at the top of this tirth. Our sights feasted on a beautiful 194 inches tall statue in black stone of Bhagwan Parshwanathji which was found here during an excavation. Amidst melodious chants of these bhagwans, Pujya Bhaishree did jal and akshat puja of a 2500 year old idol of Bhagwan Mahavir, in the Digamber tradition.

The climb down was followed by a hearty breakfast. We then visited the stunning derasars at the base of the mountain – Ancient pratimaji’s adorned every corner of these temples. An ancient idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath in green stone and seated in Ardha-padmasan (half lotus posture) truly captivated our hearts. It is said to have been excavated from a field many years ago, and ever since it’s installation at Gajpantha, the tirth has progressed tremendously. In the neighboring temple we paid our homages to 92 idols of Tirthankars – 24 each from the present, past and future Chovisis of Bharat Kshetra and 20 present Tirthankars that wander the land in Mahavideh Kshetra.  This was followed by a much awaited sermon by Param Pujya Bhaishree. Bhaishree explained Parshwanath Bhagwanji ‘s stavan by Devchandraji. Through the stanzas of the stavan Devchandraji had sung praises of Bhagwan’s tremendous qualities of Equanimity, compassion and sharpness. Devchandraji explains how he himself had attained self-realisation inside a temple in Khambhat, when upon glancing at Bhagwan Parshwanath’s idol he had experienced a great sense of bliss engulfing his entire being!  Vikrambhai ‘s soul stirring singing and Bhaishrees eloquence left everyone feeling mesmerized.

From Gajpantha we reached Trambakeshwar, an ancient Hindu temple in the town of Trimbak, in the Nashik District of Maharashtra ,a pious and holy place for devotees of Shiv. It is located at the source of the Godavari River, the longest river in peninsular India. After soaking in the sanctity of Trambakeshwar ,  we left for Deolali to meet Preetisudha Mahasatiji. Once again we benefited from some deep spiritual discourse on Letter 913 from the Vachanamrut , after which we left for Dharmachakra and retired to our respective rooms.

On Friday the next day we did kesar pooja at the derasar at Dharmachakra and then left for Ankai. On reaching Ankai we visited some ancient caves which contained pratimajis of Bhagwan Mahavirswami and Bhagwan Aadinathji carved into the rock faces. The atmosphere was magical and transported us back into the days when blessed seekers of the truth probably lived and meditated here.

Post lunch we met Hasmukhmuni Mharaj saheb who in his simple yet precise manner explained the teachings of Lord Mahavir and also the art of living joyfully.  Hasmukhmuni is the founder of the meditation ashram at Ankai and under his auspices numerous followers observe austerities and engage in deep mediation and contemplation for days on end. Mumukshoos sat mesmerized for almost an hour and a half listening to Maharajsaheb’s deep words emanating from his gentle heart, all the while soaking in the selfless love that his stoic eyes showered upon everyone. Under the guidance of Maharajsaheb , his disciples had put together a beautiful display explaining various concepts of Jainism through stories, 3D models and charts. The final display was an awe-inspiring set-up explaining the intricate concepts of Bahiratma, Antaratma and Parmatma. After a quick visit to this demonstration,  we left for Satana to relish a sumptuous dinner and then left for our final destination for the day, Mangi Tungi.

 Mangi-Tungi is a prominent twin-pinnacled peak with plateau in between, about 125 km from Nasik, Maharashtra. Mangi, 4,343 ft (1,324 m) high above sea level, is the western pinnacle and Tungi, 4,366 ft (1,331 m) high, the eastern pinnacle. Around 4,500 steps lead to the foot of the peak, with caves which are enriched with several monuments of historical and religious prominence carved out from solid rocks. Besides, there are numerous caves containing ancient idols of Tirthankaras such as Mahavirswami, Aadinathji, Shantinathji and Parshwanathji. This place holds great spiritual significance for it is believed that Bhagwan Ram, Hanuman, Sugreev , as also 99 crore other ascetics had attained liberation from this place.

 At 5:30 am on Saturday, 5^th Jan, we set out to pay our homage to this holy place. With Param Pujya Bhaishree as our guiding light and the moonlight and star studded sky for company we set out with chants reverberating in the sky in P. Vikrambhai’s emotive rendition. Simply watching Bhaishree gave us the strength to start the arduous Yatra.

Enroute to the final and highest point of Mangi we could get to, we did darshan of Bhagwan Munisuvrat swami  which is believed to be visited regularly by countless heavenly beings in the early hours of the morning. There  were also installations of the lotus feet of the Tirthankars at various points along the route. We could also see in progress a 108 ft statue of Bhagwan Adinath that is being carved on one side of Mt. Mangi. The sheer amount of rocks displaced on the slope gave us an idea of the monumental scale of this project. A whole pond had been created in the valley to provide cooling water for the rock cutting machinery.

As the first rays of the rising sun kissed the mountain, the whole atmosphere turned magical. A thousand multi-colored hues filled the sky and a great sense of inner peace filled us all. It was like the Sun god was offering its his prayers to all the great souls and saints at the start of the day.

After the first stage of ardous climb of 2800 steps of Mangi tirth, everyone relaxed and did bhakti.  As was customary Param Pujya Bhaishree adorned the traditional puja clothes and on behalf of all the mumukshoos  performed  puja of Mahavir Swami  and Aadinath Bhagwan in the digamber tradition.

There is also a pond named Krishna Kund, which is said to be a witness of the last days of Lord Krishna. According to texts, elder brother of Lord Krishna, Balram also practiced austerities in this very place. There is a cave named Balbhadra Cave where idols of Balram and many others are installed.Legend has it that Balram was so distressed at his younger brother’s death that he walked around with his dead body for six months in the hills of Mangi Tungi. Finally he was awakened to his folly, and after performing Krishna Bhagwan’s final rites, he adopted monkhood and performed severe austerities in these hills. Now his bodily form was so attractive that , wherever he went women were drawn to him. Once it so happened that women folk that were drawing water at a well were so awe struck by his beauty that instead of tying their pots to the rope, they ended up tying their children who breathed their last as they were hauled into the well. Distraught at this disgusting materialistic world, Balram decided to go high up into the mountains and meditate with his face turned away from the valley and towards the peak. It is for this reason that there is a very unique idol of Balram in Mangi – the idol has it’s back towards the worshippers and face towards the mountain. We paid our homage at this place and moved further.

 There are five caves on the periphery of Mangi’s  upright rock about 1/3^rd the way up – we did a circumambulation of the rock visiting the caves and doing darshan of various tirthankars. We had to walk about 2 km on a plateau joining the two peaks and then there was a climb of about 500 steps rising almost vertically to the lower section of the Tungi’s upright rock. On the way we did darshan of Bhagwan Krishna’s Samadhi place built by Balbhadra. Following that we descended about 500 steps to join the path for Tungi tirth.There are five temples on this great Tirth. There are two caves named on Bhagwan Chandraprabhu, the 8th Tirthankara, and other is Ram Chandra Cave. Ancient idols of Hanuman, Gava, Gavaksha, Neel etc. are here. In one cave there is an idol of Ram’s chief of army Kritantvakra in the stage of ascetic saint.

 Here, Pujya Bhaishree did pakshal puja of Chandraprabhu Swami. We completed the parikrama and started getting downhill to the base of this tirth. The descent was equally arduous but the divinity in the air combined with the graceful aura that Bhaishree radiated, made everyone forget their worries and confidently tread in his footsteps.

Pujya Bhaishree was greeted by other mumukshus who were not able to join the ascent when he arrived at the foothill amidst much fanfare and devoutional chanting.

At the base of this tirth is a splendid pratimaji of Munisuvrat Bhagwan which is carved out of Black marble and is 21 ft high. We paid our homage at the derasar and then paid a brief visit to the Mahasatiji who is behind the upliftment of the Mangi Tungi tirth. Eighty-eight years of age and frail at health, her entire being radiated a sense of peace and calm.

 After completing this amazing yet difficult jatra we left for Vani in the evening. Our arrival at Vani was followed by Bhaishrees satsang. Bhaishree looking lovingly at the exhausted muumukshoos urged everyone to rise above this mundane body consciousness and with firm resolve focus only on the eternal flame that shines within us.

On our last day of the jatra i.e Sunday the 6^th we did pooja, aarti and mangaldivo at Vani. Here, the moolnayak Bhagwan was Parshwanathji. There is also an 860 year old Pratimaji in this tirth. The Aarti and Maangaldivo was followed by Pujya Bhaishrees swadhyay and a small note of thanks to all the volunteers who made this jatra possible and comfortable.

Post lunch we left for Bombay from Vani with mixed feelings in our hearts – on the one hand there was awe at the amazing souls of yesteryear who had walked the path of the Arihants despite countless obstacles and attained their goal, on the other there was a tremendous sense of gratitude towards PP Bhaishree , for without him we would never have had the opportunity to participate in such spiritually elevating trips, and yet there was a sorrow, the sorrow of going back to our mundane worldly lives after nearly fifteen amazing days spent in the Shibir and Jatra. We reached Bombay at around 7 pm, and with a heart full of fond memories, we bid adieu to one another.

- Vyoma Gandhi

Kartiki Poonam November 28, 2012, was Paramkrupaludev, Shrimad Rajchandra’s birth anniversary. It was a day to remind us how fortunate we are that we live in a time and space enriched by his legacy. It is because of him that we are in this transitional movement toward eternal bliss.

Shahpur-Manas Temple

The Kartik Poonam closely followed P.P. Bhaishree’s birthday on November 24, also an equally holy day in our calendar. Mumukshus generally observe Param Krupaludev’s birthday by a thanksgiving pilgrimage to the Shatrunjay Mahatirth. Over 110 mumukshus to express their overflowing emotions of joy,  devotion and gratitude, reached Shahpur-Manas temple.

At 8 am, P.P. Bhaishree arrived at the  Shahpur dharmashala at 8 am to an effusive welcome from all mumukshus. After breakfast, everyone reached Adinathji temple for puja which started with a chant in the glory of the Lord. With dancing hearts, the mumukshus participated in the puja with P.P. Bhaishree followed by chaityavandan.

A captivating darshan tour of the Shatrunjay mountain and the temples nearby and an opportune sighting of the Kshetrapaldada followed.

P.P. Bhaishree’s satsang was arranged in a grandly decorated hall nearby.  P P Bhaishree, Br Minalben  Br Vikrambhai  garlanded Param Krupaludev’s chitrapat and adorned it with a tilak.  An auspicious lamp was lit. Everyone participated in the aarti of Param Krupaludev and satgurudev with effervescent emotion. Some bhakti later, P.P. Bhaishree began his swadhyay based on letter 913 from Vachanamrut. He explained this profound letter in his amazingly simple style that could be understood and appreciated by all mumukshus at different levels on their spiritual journey. Br. Vikrambhai conducted the proceedings.

Br Dipakbhai & Atmarthi Bhavnaben Felicitated by P P Bhaishree

Param Pujya Bhaishree’s Swadhyay in Session

As Br. Deepakbhai Ambani’s family had sponsored this wonderful pilgrimage, Br. Vinubhai and Br. Lalitaben felicitated the family with a shawl, coconut and gift. The Ambani family felt honoured to be able to felicitate P.P. Bhaishree with a shawl and an attractive chitrapat of Lord Parshvanath and the Navkaar Mahamantra.

Everyone dispersed after lunch, taking back with them a bit of the sparkling purity of the place and the grandeur of the occasion.

Seema Kamdar

Deep within us we all have longing that incites us to do something to fulfill it. Some of us seek fulfillment in possessing and accumulating wealth, some in achievements that make us renowned, some in performing good deeds, helping others and some in bringing love to their relationships. These things do give us moments of exhilaration. Similarly kids of IVY swadhyays were eager and passionate to celebrate birthday of their spiritual tutor Brahmanisht Minalben. They were fervent in their desire as they perfectly knew how important they were in her life.

The only thing that can satisfy us entirely at all times is if we have a secure relationship with someone who will never, never fail us. There is someone who is absolutely powerful and strong, yet absolutely loving and tender. We always want to be connected to such a soul. In their company we find peace and rest. They reveal truth and under them we get shaped and moulded. She carves goodness by chiseling out all that is unwanted, dreadful in our soul which we have been carrying with us from ages.

Thus along with their parents they took this opportunity to wish and celebrate Minalben’s birthday which actually was on 17th of November. As this was the first swadhyay thereafter, they were all too excited to make colourful cards for her. Many of them prepared food for the whole group and the mothers were surprised to see their young ones helping them to cook the meal. Joy and Happiness filled the room as they came in. They loved, adored and cherished her acquaintance.

As humans we have limit to our patience and sometimes we run out of it and show our displeasure and anger towards our kids when they perpetually break the rules but her compassion and patience are unparallel. She never gives up on them.

The celebration started with the devotional prayer followed by Minalben’s discourse on Karuna Bhavna. Thereafter Vikrambhai spoke of those essential virtues that are needed to make us worthy of walking on the path to Moksh. He concluded the session by reading out various cards made by small wonders and a meaningful letter addressed to Minalben by Veer Shah.

Vikrambhai read with warmth and emotions expressing awe at the beautiful gestures conveyed so well by the little ones. Thereafter with rejoicing heart and enlightening eyes Vikrambhai read a special poem which he had written for the occasion. It conveyed his deepest veneration and highest salutations for her. The delight and elation of his heart were worded and named as

“Celebrating Her Virtues”

You are the silver moon of our holy nights
Your guiding light makes our way bright.

So gentle and so pure, she happily endures,
Refreshingly new, she is always true.

Able and efficient she puts her heart,
Whatever she does becomes a piece of art.

She loves but never expects,
In her, spirituality always reflects.

Loveliness and understanding blend together,
She is like a white feather or Golden heather.

Gets young as she grows old,
God’s divine magic unfolds.

With you we prosper in peace
In stillness of silence self realization is at ease

Bapuji and Guruma’s sacred daughter,
Taking up Bhaishree’s reigns she is our next holy altar.

Celebrating her Birthday IVY wishes her all the best,
Under her refuge we feel so blessed and at rest.

With cake cutting the ceremony reached its summit as all children were awaiting and were enthralled in that moment. A scrumptious lunch nourished our appetite and satisfied our taste buds too.

In complete modesty and humbleness Minalben credited P.P.Bapuji, Guruma and Bhaishree for all the accolades and praises conferred on her. She also thanked her family members as without their support it wouldn’t have been possible for her to travel and be with mumukshus so often.

The celebration ended as we swirled and danced in devotion praying for Bhaishree and Her presence in each moment of our life.

Spirituality provides fulfillment to human life. Those who are self realized are embodied forms of spirituality that is apparent in holy books and scriptures. We celebrate their being amid us by celebrating their birthday. We celebrate their existence because under their direct refuge and inspiration we can start and strive for an inner self-development. As we develop, we can perceive the oneness in all and acquire  an elevated consciousness that will bringout  the god-like attributes in us.

“Tumhare darshan ki bela hai mausam ras rachane ka, Liye ulhaas ki sanse samay bhakti mein jeene ka”

Piety and euphoria filled our hearts as we awoke, the sun too had resolved to sanctify the earth and was casting a golden halo across the endless white swathe of clouds that had materialized on the horizon. It was a bright morning; one could tell that the gods too had decided to join in the birthday celebrations of our dearest guru, P.P. Bhaishri, who had on this very day graced this planet 69 years ago, only so as to fill our life with his fragrance.

We were far but our minds were at our guru’s lotus feet. Time seemed to move at an unusually slow pace that day, as we waited to catch a glimpse of our guru.

Welcoming Param Pujya Bhaishree

The mood was set at Pracharya B.N Vaidya hall in Dadar, Mumbai,  by Br. Vikrambhai, Nimit and Hiren as they sang, “Jogi re, kya jadu hai tere pyaar mein” and amidst this chanting entered P.P.Bhaishri. He was welcomed by Br. Minalben and Himanshubhai Jain and their families.

Jogi Re, Kya Jadu Hai Tere Pyaar Mein

His twinkling eyes overflowing with abundance of love and compassion also radiated inner bliss as; they set upon each eager disciple who, while bowing in reverence, tried to catch his eye. Our separation was over; our lord was now physically amidst us and our joy knew no bounds.

As we settled in our seats, Br. Minalben with her characteristic charm took the mike and smoothly led us into the world that defined our true nature. As P.P.Bhaishree was entering into the 70^th year of this human birth, the theme for the evening which was sponsored by Br. Minalben, Himanshubhai and their families was ‘7’.

Br. Minalben started the proceedings for the evening by invoking 7 great souls who have been an inspiration and guide for generations to follow i.e. Lord Mahavir, P.P. Krupalu dev, P.P. Bapuji, P.P. Guruma, P.P. Shantidada, P.P. Bhaishree’s father, Pujya Shri Anantrai Kothari and his mother, Pujya Kantabaa, to be with us as we commemorate one of the most important days of our lives.

Br Minalben’s Welcoming the Guests

In accordance with the theme, abbreviations of each of the seven sargams were prepared by Br. Minalben in a way they depicted P.P. Bhaishri’s virtues. The initials of the seven colours of the rainbow were used by her to describe the love and qualities of the disciples.

The host families then welcomed P.P. Bhaishree and demonstrated their enthusiasm, love and devotion for P.P. Bhaishri through the medium of dance. The group sang 7 chants that rent the auditorium and resonated in our hearts — P.P. Bhaishree AMAR rahe, JAYWANT rahe, NIRAMAY rahe, ANANDMAYE rahe , DIRGHAAYU rahe,, SWARUPASTHA rahe , P.P.Bhaishree ki Jai ho Jai ho Jai ho– as he was invited to take his position on the dais.

Br Vinubhai’s & Himanshubhai Jain’s Families Performing Welcome Dance

Br Vinubhai  and Himanshubhai Jain along with their families then gathered on stage to welcome their beloved guru, Jhanvi then applied the tradional tilak as a symbol of their reverence. This was then followed by guru-aarti by the members of both the families. Our eyes and hearts brimmed with emotions. It was a blissful moment as pure love enveloped the auditorium.

Jhanvi Applying the Tilak

Seizing on the moment, young mumukshus performed a robust qawaali led by Br. Vikrambhai, Hiren and Nimit. Dressed in costumes complete with qawaali caps, they got us swaying  to the devotional song, “mujhe raas aa gaya hai,” pledging unwavering love for the guru and supplicating to him to take charge of their lives so that they could cut through the tangles of life and detach themselves from the vicious web of births and deaths. The moment was celebratory and the mood charged.

Qawaali Performing Quintet

Qawaali Supporting Quartet

It was now time for the cake and the icing on the cake as well – P.P. Bhaishri’s swadhyay. Sensing the pulse of the moment, he hit on the root cause that kept us away from our souls. Worry, he said, was keeping us away from this indescribably beautiful world that lay within us. Defining worry, he said it was a sign that we were becoming weak. In order to put an end to this self-inflicted misery, he asked us to fill each moment with the fire of life; each moment is golden. Once spent, it cannot come back, he emphasised. Happiness cannot come to those who wait for it, we need to seize each moment and make it ours. Each statement held a world of worldly wisdom and transcendental knowledge, which was ours for the asking if only we knew how to use it.

Explaining the importance of living in the present, he said evocatively that fretting over the past and worrying about the future was like agonizing about the past and future waters, while sitting on a lotus. An enlightened individual is always content as he lives in the present; it is only and only when we live in the present that we can shed the baggage of futile qualms. Only then can we come close to our soul and achieve the purpose of this human birth. One can start living such a life at any point of time, P.P. Bhaishri assured us, but we should be willing to put in tremendous struggle for that uphill climb. Also, a predominant quality one requires for this task is complete samarpan (surrender). Such a pious soul always feels the presence of his guru within him.

P.P. Bhaishri concluded this empowering swadhyay by blessing us with the will power required to live the life that he had outlined.

P.P.Bhaishri then launched a C.D. on “aagnabhakti” recorded in Br Minalbens, Rupaben’s and Vikrambhai’s melodious voice. This C.D. was given as “prabhavana” to the “mumukshus”.

Launching of the Bhakti CD

It was now time for cake-cutting, P.P. Bhaishri cut two cakes, the second on behalf of P.P. Gurumaa, while we looked on and sang gustily, “Tum jeeyo hazaaro saal, saal ke din ho pachaas haazaar.” Br Minalben then fondly recited a poem in P.P. Gurumaa’s memory.

Cake cutting Ceremony

Mumukshus then had the opportunity for individual symbolic thanksgiving – “guruvandana”. Everyone queued up to greet P.P. Bhaishri personally. As each one went before him and bowed to not just greet him but also surrender his ego and appeal for the strength to grow like him, P.P. Bhaishri’s eyes were steady and smiling. They shone on each and every one unequivocal love and that indefinable quality that always fills one with an otherworldly peace.

We then proceeded for a sumptuous dinner comprising Italian and Indian delicacies.

Br. Minalben concluded the first part of the jubilatory event by pointing out that this was just the commencement of our celebrations as next year we would meet once again in order to rejoice the completion of P.P. Bhaishri’s 70 years. She echoed our sentiments, when she sought the blessing of the 7 guruwaryas of Shri Raj Saubhag Satsang Mandal Sayla (P.Shri Saubhagbhai P.Shri Shamaldasbhai, P. Maniben, P.Shri Kalidasbhai, P.Shri Vajabhai, P.Shri Chotabhai Desai and then our very own and dearest P.P.Bapuji) on our beloved P.P. Bhaishri to ensure his climb to the 7th gunsthaanak (layer of spiritual existence), which is the highest stage that can be reached by anyone in human birth in this age.

The second part of the evening was a Gujarati play, “Ek Apurav Khela” based on the life of P.P. Anandghanji Maharaj. The play filled us with reverence at the grandeur and magnitude of our saints and gnanis.

As the evening ended, it was time to part from our guru, but we left with the confidence that he was there with us, showing us the way, each and everyday.

Purvi Boardia

Pujya Minalben had gone to Sayla on 17th november specially to celebrate her birthday in Param Pujya Bhaishree’s presence. A large number of mumuxus were present in Sayla and together they celebrated the birthday with a special swadhyay by Param Pujya Bhaihsree.  Followuing that, he had a few words to say about Pujya Minalben which you can read by  clicking here  ’Param Pujya Bhaishree on Pujya Minalben’s Birthday‘.

 On 16th November,after the swadhyay at shantiniketan, Pujya Vikrambhai had the also given a vivid description of what Pujya Minalben has achieved under Bapuji’s guruma’s and Bhaishree’s auspicious shelthers. Pujya Vikrambhai has summed up her divinity by singing and comparing her spirituality with a particular pad. Regrettably we do not have the recording of that recitation but the wordings are repeated here: Pujya-Minalbens-birthday-by-Pujya-Vikrambhai.pdf  . These are sure to arouse our devotion for her and in turn for Bhaishree.

We have some of the photos from Sayla celebration where Param Pujya Bhaishree’s forthcoming birthday was also celebrated.

Wish you and your family a very Divine Diwali. May the coming year be loaded with abundant Spirituality.

Diwali is the day of emancipation as on this day Bhagwan Mahavir attained Moksh. He showed us the path by practically walking on it. Every facet of his being and even the smallest of his action had brought to life those fundamental principles that he had preached. Observing austerity with inner detachment he demonstrated how we need to tread on the path of salvation. Keeping his spiritual ambassador, [P.P.Bhaishree] in our mind, we can imagine how immensely great Bhagwan Mahavir was.

For soul seekers like us, it is the illumination of the Soul that is Diwali. We are that self luminous light which steadily shines brightly. In true sense, Diwali occurs only when we are able to identify and experience this inner light. We have our savior P.P.Bhaishree, in whose life each day is a Diwali. He fills our life with peace, happiness and contentment. Firmly grounded in self awareness, each moment of his life is so complete.

We don’t need to kindle this light as it is already burning bright within us. The need is to realise it, to be aware of it. Believe me, it’s not a Herculean task, let us close our eyes and sit quitely, withdraw our attention from the subject of our senses and try to still the wandering mind. This way we shall determine our own living reality. Irony is that we have been around us and yet have not found our self. Our search has remained outside and the one that is searching, the consciousness, is unaware of its own existence.

The luminous energy field is lying beneath the veil of our mortal existence. In every form of life, it is the physical body that has always been the focus center of our attention. Utmost care and concern for its well being has remained our foremost objective and therefore we have completely neglected and overlooked the luminous self that is so evident. But once its powerful glow is known then it will dispel the darkness of ignorance and free us from all the bondage and miseries of reincarnation.

Under Bhaishree we are sure that our pursuits will certainly reach the absolute truth. Following his commands and applying his practical teachings, we too like him shall be able to integrate different virtues. These virtues collectively shall build our character and lead us to unearth our infinite being. Diverting our concentration from the body, mind, intellect we need to focus on the unchanging everlasting power that supports and gives life to all of these. Presently we are obsessed and possessed by matters that have different shapes, colour, odour and taste but by relinquishing them we can certainly regain and control our self that is currently lost.

In the coming New Year, we shall read scriptures that introduce us to ourselves and more than reading we will contemplate and meditate. We are aware that more we think, meditate and observe silence; we shall realize the innate power, dwell in it and remain charged.

Being modest about our own goodness we shall adore and adopt good virtues of others. Restraining from being slaves of our desires, we resolve to remain happy. We are determined to endure all that comes our way with perfect equanimity. Before taking any decisions we shall judiciously review the purpose of this human life? Before embarking on any important task, we promise to sit quietly and evaluate all the possible consequences. Being calm and patient on the basis of our inherent divinity we shall actively be dutiful and play roles that we need to without any expectations in return.

On this auspicious occasion of Diwali, Bhaishree has taken 6th adhyayan of Acharang Sutra called “Dhut”. Dhut means to clean, ધોવુ.Wash out the dirt and the filth that has been obscuring our soul. Words fall short in describing how wonderful and blessed we feel as we celebrate listening to his insightful swadhyays.

May the light of your soul spread joy where ever you go.

Vikram Na Vandan.

This Diwali lets light up in Bhaishree’s virtues.

Immensely fortunate we are those blessed souls who can walk along with Bhaishree on the path of love and light. He truly is our source of inspiration, knowledge and guidance. Lifting our consciousness to a higher realization he continuously raises us above the miseries of life. With him our horizons get broader and our outlook wider enabling us to see the truth, that’s shinning bright in every living being.

Like the soil allowing the rain water to penetrate, we too must become permeable and absorb his divinity and his virtues. Under his refuge and with his help, spiritual life is awakened, innate powers start propelling, growth is activated, and we are sure to become holy and perfect. For receiving his pure impulses we need to continuously bind ourselves to him, by staying near him and following his commands with utmost faith and sincerity.

With the same soft eloquence Bhaishree continued, we must train our self to identify smallest good that others have and express our honest admiration by applauding their achievements. Recognizing good in others helps us develop a power, to abolish the bad in us. We need to pursue our values and accept our vulnerabilities. Values and ideals motivate and guide our choices. 

We are habituated to instinctively find people’s faults.  Whenever we come across a mean old man or a rebellious teenager, a cold-hearted criminal or a self-centered celebrity, an arrogant politician or a common man haunted by ego, we need to be alert and compassionate in our perception. God asks us to see good in them. This is the path of human evolution.

Each virtue has immense power in it. They collectively build our character. Harnessing the power of virtue is what I want you to realize and work for. Good character traits have to be acquired and nourished. Thus, we must begin to build up good virtues. One way to do this is to recognize the habits of our mind, paying attention to what we like and dislike, what we prefer to eat and how anxious we are for our looks, whose company we prefer, how we function in our day to day living. Are we lazier and start resting before we actually get tired? We need to compare and reconcile our life style, our priorities, and our values with those great souls who have become Saints. Our habits have to be beneficial to us and to others. Aim at perfection in everything.

Then highlighting on a very important aspect Bhaishree asked us to listen carefully. We must be judged largely by what we do and say, how we act and react towards other people, how we adjust ourselves to the problems of life. True advancement is reflected more in our day-to-day conduct, thoughts, and actions rather than our vision or other experiences. Living a good life is living a virtuous life.  A good man is a man who functions well.  He thinks before he acts. His ability to think rationally makes him wise. A self controlled mind enables us to act in a fair, righteous and a balance manner. When we are honest in our effort and honest about our intentions, we attract the natural love from everyone.

If we recognize our inner evil but neglect efforts to conquer it, then our lives are instantaneously stained with it. In that sense, a good person is someone who struggles against immorality and sins. It is by fighting the evil that we eradicate vices within our lives and so we purify our existence and also the world that we live in.

Then giving a perfect illustration, Bhaishree wonderfully distinguished the soul and the body. When we look at ourselves from outside we can only see the surface of what we have become. We can’t see or perhaps cannot even imagine the inner core, which, like in the example of the coconut, is the only part that really can nourish us and give us energy. The shell (in the case of the coconut) serves as a protection but we certainly can’t eat it.

In our case, the core (center) consists of natural or inner qualities such as peace, love, power, truth, happiness and so on. The shell is the ego which consists of features or personality characteristics we have acquired through the journey of our lives such as experiences, abilities, memories, learning, habits and beliefs – in short, all that we are referring to when we say: ‘I am so-and-so, from such-and-such family or organization or city’.

While we are limited to these characteristics of our role play, our true qualities remain within us. Through deep reflection and meditation we can break the shell and activate our inner qualities from which our values or principles are born. Born as humans our sole purpose is to realize God. God is within us and therefore every aspect of our life can provide us an opportunity to experience Him. He is the intrinsic power, the energy by which our body can remain active.

In meditation, we go into the depths of our true self, deep within our true being. When we delve within, we realize the power that knows. The concentrated mind will find out the treasures of the soul, perennial joy, eternal bliss and immortality. These divine traits connect us to others as they too have the same in abundance like us. Seeing our own manifestation in them we abstain from opinions and start living an unbiased, neutral fulfilling life.

Bhaishree came to the end of this third pedestal of seeking good virtues in others but before concluding he benevolently cautioned us “Although many of us can speak most wonderfully on spiritual matters, but when it comes to action and living a spiritual life, we find ourselves so awfully deficient. Religion, [dharma] which is the highest knowledge and the highest wisdom cannot be bought, nor can it be acquired from books. We may wander to all corners of the world, we may explore the Himalayas, the Alps, and the Mount Sinai, Athos or Tabor, roam in the deserts of Sahara or Gobi, we may observe severe penance or sit for hours reading or doing rituals or in sacrament, we will still not find it anywhere until our heart is ready for receiving it from our true Guru. It comes only when a divine Guru arrives in our life, and we start serving him with a childlike confidence and simplicity. Seeing God manifested in him we must freely open our heart to his influence. Only those who come to seek truth with such a spirit of love and veneration, to them the peer of the realm, reveals the most wonderful things regarding truth, goodness, and inner beauty.”

Conclusion: Bhaishree ceaselessly bestows his divine grace, his divine virtues, let’s be worthy for assimilating and holding them within us.

In your Service

Vikram Na Vandan.