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Saturday, November 7, 2026

Diipavali: why no fireworks + 2 more

Baba
Diipavali: why no fireworks

Note: The great festival of Diipavali is now upon us 08 Nov 2026. 

Namaskar,

As we engage in the wonderful occasion of Diivali or Diipávalii, may we all rejoice and celebrate both the social and spiritual aspects of this highly significant and grand occasion. This is one of our recognised Ananda Marga festivals which is designed to bring a renewal and rejuvenation throughout one's entire existence.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba's special description of Diipávalii

In Caryacarya part 1, Baba neatly outlines all our Ananda Marga festivals. Plus, in various other discourses Baba also talks extensively about certain festivals like Shravanii Purnima etc. And that is the case with Diipa'vali also.

In His June 1990 DMC discourse, 'The Cult of Spirituality-- The Cult of Pinnacled Order', Baba makes special mention of this event. In this discourse Baba explains how this festival known as Diipa'vali is linked with the enlightenment of the soul. That is the great significance of this day.
  • The darkness of the mind should be removed. 'In each and every house there is a festival of light, yet my home is dark', one should not say like this. Instead, there should be diivali (festival of light) in the home, and it is the diivali of the atma' (festival of soul) .
And if you wish to see Baba present that idea in the original Hindi, here is the link to the video
Hence Diipávalii is related with spiritual refulgence, sentient thought, and all psycho-spiritual ideas that are linked with light: Igniting the lamp of love for Parama Purusa.

Our A'nanda Ma'rga Baba places great emphasis on the celebration of our various festivals. They are a time of rejoicing in all the spheres of life.

According to Baba's above DMC discourse, Diipa'vali is the idea of cultivating an inner spiritual yearning for Parama Purusa, thereby illuminating one's entire existence with the sweet flow of spirituality. That is, infusing one's soul with the great love of Parama Purusa.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

How we should celebrate

Per abiding by The Supreme Command, each and every Ananda Margii does sadhana twice a day, at minimum. So it is our regular habit and practice to illumine our minds and hearts with that deeply spiritual flow. This is Baba's grace and His great gift to all Ananda Margiis.

So when the day of Diipávalii arrives then what are we to do? We are to dedicate even more time to our spiritual  practices of sadhana and kiirtan - enabling our existence to better reflect and capture the infinite love of Parama Purusa. By Baba's divine grace, may we all pass this occasion in this splendid and deeply meaningful way. And, of course, we may join any festival programs organised in our local units, as outlined in Caryacarya.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Diipávalii: Once collective Iishvara Pran'idha'na and Varn'a'rghyada'na, illumination, collective merry celebrations, entertaining visitors at one's residence, and procession with ta'n'd'ava dance." (1)


Firecrackers are dangerous

Here is a story from the 1960's as recounted by a senior margii. That is why this story is told in the first-person using "I". Here begins the story....
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

My visit with Baba during Diipávalii

During the 1960's I was a student and I would go and visit Baba often; He was always very gracious and would give guidelines and speak on various topics. As Guru, it was His grace that He allowed me to sit close to His feet and have His proximity.

On this particular occasion, in late October, during the time of Diipavali / Deepawali, all kinds of festivities were going on, including fireworks / firecrackers. In celebration of this festival, many in our local neighborhood were also shooting off firecrackers.


Money spent on firecrackers should be used to serve suffering humanity

At the time, I was sitting with Baba, attending to Him, in His quarters. Baba was speaking on various subjects, but He was interrupted again and again by the loud and disturbing noise of those firecrackers. Finally, He stopped talking entirely.

After a few moments, I said: Baba, people spend crores of rupees on firecrackers.

Baba replied: Yes. People misuse crores of rupees (tens of millions) on fireworks and erecting huge, multi-story paper temples on the road for this festival, and these temples only last 3 - 5 days. All the while, the common masses and poor people are suffering; they do not have proper food, shelter, clothing, medical care, nor education. They lack the basic requirements. It would be far better if the funds spent on fireworks were used to serve those impoverished people with that money - instead of wasting it on firecrackers and other dogma. That would be great social service.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
Baba continued: Not only are these firecrackers a drastic misuse and abuse of funds; they also create lots of noise and air pollution.

Reflection: why no fireworks

This above story gives a very good and meaningful guideline to us all. Unfortunately, nowadays in our AMPS there is also a competition of shooting off fireworks. Tragically, that negative trend has been adopted by some during Diipávalii / deepawali, as well as Ananda Purnima, and on select other festival days.

There are a variety of reasons why we do not support the lighting of fireworks during our Ananda Marga festivals or anytime:

1. Fireworks / Firecrackers are dangerous and can bring bodily harm such as moderate to severe burns, loss of limbs, loss of life, hundreds of deaths;
2. Fireworks / Firecrackers are costly and a waste of money;
3. Fireworks / Firecrackers create a huge amount of pollution
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

As Ananda Margiis, we should all be more conscious about this. We should not fall into trends of the general society. Those who purchase fireworks for these types of festivals should refrain from using them and safely recycle / dispose of them. That is the best thing to do; that will be in keeping with Baba's stated guideline.

It is just like if someone purchased a lethal dose of poison for their own personal consumption and later realised that life itself is very important, then they will not ingest it. Rather they will throw it away. Similarly, those who made the mistake of purchasing fireworks should not use those firecrackers, but rather safely dispose of them.

Conclusion

I also used to shoot off fireworks but after hearing this story I stopped immediately. This is a very practical and meaningful guideline. After all, money should not be used and abused but rather spent in a proper way, i.e. for the service of those in need.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The brief summary of the above story is: Baba points out how fireworks are a waste of money - better those funds should be used for the well-being of the people. Baba also guides us that fireworks create noise and air pollution.

On this wonderful festival of Diipa'vali, let us once again recall Baba's great boon upon all Ananda Margiis and illumine the light within.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "You should remember why You have been born. Following the path of devotion, you will have to ultimately reach Parama Purusa." (2)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Pratibha’

~ In-depth study ~

Many Diipavali celebrations around the world

Diipa'vali is not just a day celebrated in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha. Throughout the gamut of communities based on tantric traditions, Diipa'vali is recognised as a highly meaningful occasion. Estimates are that upwards of 900 million to 1.4 billion people celebrate Diivali. Whether one is a vidya tantric or an avidya tantric, whether one is an idol worshiper or one engages in prayer, whatever type of sadhana one does, Diipa'vali is the day when all are involved.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

At the same time, many materialistic and dogmatic people display fireworks in the external arena; that is also one aspect of this event. In Ananda Marga, as noted above we do not support the use of fireworks. Instead we might use safe, eco-friendly, electric lamps - if one has the desire to celebrate in this manner. After all, the term 'diip' means 'light' or 'lamp' and Diipa'vali is that occasion which is a festival of lights. And many come forward in various ways to celebrate this widely recognised occasion. In our Ananda Marga we have our own special, dharmic understanding of this great festival, as outlined above.

Social functions & festivals: "a great unifying force"

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "You should make arrangements for different types of festivity on the occasions of the ceremonial functions of the Marga. Ensure that those who enjoy the celebrations also get thereby healthy opportunities for their physical growth, mental development and spiritual progress." (3)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Many of the ills of society develop because people do not care to know other members of society. This ignorance of the condition and difficulties of others leads to intolerance and a lack of interest in the affairs of the other members of society. Common social functions bring different members of society together and are, therefore, a great unifying force. By performing certain functions collectively all the participants are engaged for some time in doing the same thing and brings about a feeling of unity and interest in others. In A'nanda Ma'rga such common social functions are specially encouraged. Milita Sna'na or collective bathing and dharmacakra or collective meditation are the basis for common social functions in the physical, psychic and spiritual fields. Common participation in such functions is a very unifying force and the participants of such functions will have no intolerance for each other; instead they will become more united. Such functions are therefore a great unifying force." (4)

Our Ananda Marga festivals bring charm in the life

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "When people become tired and uninspired, when they can no longer look towards the future with hope, when their colourful dreams are shattered, at that time the sweetness of a festival brings new joy and vigour in life. Thus in individual and collective life, the importance of festivals is tremendous. One should always remember that festivals should be such that all can take part in them without any ostentatious display of wealth, and with an upsurge of their life force. And these festivals should be conducted in such a way that people take part in them from a spontaneous inner urge. I hope that you will make such arrangements so that all are attracted towards your festivals which will be more and more charming-- and this will bring about your collective welfare." (5)

Various spellings of this festival day

Here it is also important to note that there are various different spellings of this occasion, depending on the language and area: 'Diipavali', 'Diivali', 'Diipa'vali', 'Diwali', and 'Deewali' etc; all refer to the same wonderful festival.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

According to the sadhaka, Baba added: The money misused on dogma should be used for social service. Those who love humanity will not misuse their hard earned wealth in this way. (Story recounted by Dr. Singh, a margii from Ranchi)

References
1. Caryacarya - 1, Social Functions and Festivals
2. Yoga Psychology, '91 Edn, p.140, The Cult of Spirituality – the Cult of Pinnacled Order
3. Caryacarya - 1, Social Functions and Festivals
4. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Social Psychology
5. A Few Problems Solved - 5, On Festivals


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Who stained the rivers with blood

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Religion and intolerance have created enormous harm in the world, have caused torrents of blood to stain the rivers red. In the present twentieth century, religions have assumed the form of “isms”. The people of medieval times fought among the clans and communities, and the people of today are fighting over their “isms”...To emancipate the masses from the unhealthy influence of “isms” there is no other way than universalism. Only universalism is free from the defects of any narrow isms because every thing of this entire universe comes within its vast periphery.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - part 7, The Five Kinds of Conscience (Viveka)

== Section 2: Links ==




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Friday, November 6, 2026

Baba’s response to courtroom antics + 5 more

Baba
Baba’s response to courtroom antics


Namaskar,

"As a lawyer, I was quite involved in Baba's court case during the Emergency period in India when He was unjustly incarcerated."

"In that case, the prosecuting attorney - i.e the CBI lawyer representing Mrs Gandhi's regime - was Mahadeva Babu. When the case opened and witnesses were being called, then Mahadeva Babu used to guide his witnesses while they were on the witness stand itself, right in front of the judge."
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

"As the designated Ananda Marga lawyer, I vehemently made objection to this tactic, as it was against the ethic."

"After one such objection, the prosecuting attorney Mahadeva told the judge, "Ramtanuk is a margii - not a lawyer - that is why he is objecting. He has special interest in Ananda Marga.""

"Mahadeva was insinuating that I did not understand the nature of these legal proceedings and that I was just a lay person in a court of law. This was the meaning behind his comment. That was his justification for why my objection was meaningless."

"Hearing and reflecting upon his comment, I became very disturbed."

Consulting with Baba

"At the first opportunity, I went to see Baba to inform Him of what was going on."

"(Aside: During the Emergency I used to get approval from the court to go and see Baba in jail in my capacity as a lawyer.)"

"I recounted to Baba all that was going on in the courtroom and in particular told Him of the problem with attorney Mahadeva. Mentally I was thinking that Baba will give His solution."
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

"Baba replied, "The CBI agents are externally very polite but internally they focus on their agenda. You should also be externally polite but internally dedicated to your cause. That is the way to deal with these people.""

"Baba furthermore told, "When any problem arises then remember your mantra and the proper answer will come.""

"I understood Baba's message and guidance. Thereafter, externally I maintained good relations with CBI personnel, and internally kept strict vigilance to our Ananda Marga discipline. And I kept focused on my ista mantra."

How Ramtanuk ji strikes back

"One day when the court was in session, the CBI lawyer, Mahadeva Babu, was again giving explicit hints to his witnesses while they were on the stand."

"Seeing this I felt completely disturbed and started repeating my mantra as per Baba's guideline. Then one idea came to mind."

"I objected and told the judge, "Your Honour, Mahadeva Babu was an Ananda Margii but he left and now he is a CBI man. To prove that he has zero allegiance to the Marga and is a trusted CBI man, Mahadeva Babu is employing all these underhanded techniques. That is why he is going against the ethic and coaxing his witnesses in the favour of the CBI. All because he wants to prove his unbridled loyalty to his CBI bosses.""
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

"The judge smiled and nodded in affirmation."

"The judge replied, "Indeed, it is no different from how a new convert to Islam will eat more onions to prove his credibility in the eyes of his Islamic elders." (Note: Everyone knows that Muslims in India eat onions with every meal. This is their signature ingredient. A lifelong Muslim can skip onions once in a while if he wishes because all know he is a Muslim. But a new convert to Islam will have to eat maximum onions at every meal. Then people will think he is a legitimate follower, otherwise not.)"

"Hearing this, other lawyers in the courthouse started laughing. They understood that Mahadeva was formerly in Ananda Marga and that now as a new convert to the CBI, he has to prove his loyalty. So he is doing extra, going beyond, and coaxing his witnesses in the court itself to show his allegiance to the government. Everyone clearly understood the joke the judge was making."

"Mahadeva Babu kept quiet and drowned in shame."

"From that moment forward, the problem was permanently solved, and Mahadava never hinted or coaxed his witnesses again while they were on the stand, and he never lodged a complaint against me, Ramtanuk, for being a margii."

Conclusion

There are many things to be learned from Ac Ramtanukji's story. The main guideline is that when encountering any tough and difficult situation, where the odds are stacked against you, then repeat your mantra and surrender to Baba. Then you are sure to receive Cosmic help and get His guidance about what to do. That will come in the mind, by His grace. That is what every sadhaka should take away from this story. We should also keep Baba's below teaching in mind.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

    “Vicaeti cánte vishvamádaya sa deva
    Sa no budhyá shubhayá saḿyunaktu.”

Ananda Marga ideology says, "If you are to say anything you should say – what? You may use only one sentence. “O Supreme Father, guide my intellect unto the path of bliss. I want nothing else, nothing more.” (1)

We should follow this in our practical life and use our inner spiritual treasure to link our unit mind with His Divine Cosmic Mind. Then one is sure to get the proper guideline at the proper time.

Lastly, Baba is not far. He is always sitting in your heart. He has not gone away as some dogmatic people believe. He is in the heart. With ideation, one can make that inner link with Him, by His grace. Devoid of that one is lonely, weak, and helpless. When a person thinks of themselves as a unit entity then they are weak, and when a person is linked with the Cosmic Entity then they are powerful.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Satyanis’t’ha Deva

Note: Ac Ramtanuk jii of Begu Sarai (Bihar) is a founding member of AMPS as well as a family acarya. As a lawyer, he worked assiduously throughout his life for Ananda Marga court cases. That was one of his great contributions. Above is his first-hand account of one of his experiences in the courtroom.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

About lawyering

Usually lawyers coach their witness before the trial, or before they take the stand. But Mahadeva was coaching and coaxing his witnesses while they were on the stand itself, directly in front of the judge. The only reason this was allowed to happen was that this case was being held during the period of martial law / Emergency in India.


Simple & intelligent, but not foolish

Baba guides us that as sadhakas we should be simple and intelligent, but not foolish.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam, Part 12, He Knows His Duty


Plagiary?

It is the accepted international standard and Baba's system not to copy another's work and publish it in your own way. Baba has given a very strict rule on plagiarism. Why is Baba against plagiarism or stealing someone's work? There are many reasons:

1) It is against the code of asteya (non-stealing).

2) Countless stories of bhaktas need to be published. But some do not want to do the hard work of compiling and writing these stories, so they just steal them from others. But new stories need to be told, otherwise so many unpublished stories of sadhakas will be lost and forgotten forever. So watch out for story thieves, and kindly help them not to steal by posting on social media in their own way. If you want to forward this story then attach the following yellow section with the story: 

“Courtesy of unknown bhakta via Ananda Marga Universal (https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/)”

This will be treated as the standard protocol.



*        *        *

The below sections are entirely different topics, unrelated to the above material.
They stand on their own as points of interest.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==


Song of Diipavali
 
"Álokojjval ei sandhyáy,maner mádhuri niye gláni sariye diye..." (Prabhat Samgiita #1894)

Purport:

On this refulgent Diipa'vali evening who has appeared in the vast blue sky. Who is that charming Entity who has come with boundless prema and removed all the blemishes from my mind. Which compassionate Personality has come and wiped away all the darkness and defects from my inner self. Who is that Entity who has come and made me clean and pure.

O’ the love personified Entity, the planets and stars have lit the lamp to receive You; their hearts are filled with an overabundance of love for You. By seeing Your infinite grandeur, even this great, silver-coloured galaxy has become spellbound and awestruck. O' loving One, You go on dancing, floating, and smiling with Your magnificent heartfelt expression. Who are You who has appeared before me.

My Eternal Entity, I have longed for You for hundreds of lives through countless cycles of birth and death. I have gotten a new life again and again with the sole desire to attain You. I thirst for Your exquisite bliss in each and every pore of my heart. My entire being is filled with the deep attraction for You, and I shall keep loving You with each molecule of this spiritually intoxicated stream of ideation. You have filled my soul with the light of bhakti. The river of my mental longing is overflowing with Your unparalleled mercy. Who are You who has showered unparalleled joy on me.

O' Supreme Entity, my Parama Purusa, today You have come in my heart on this resplendent night of Diipavali. Please accept my sastaunga pranam at Your lotus feet...


== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

True wealth

Prout philosophy says, "In the subtle economic sense, the value of wealth is the real wealth. Wealth, if not properly defined, may mean only riches. But the value of wealth is to be measured in terms of its capacity to purchase commodities. That is, the purchasing capacity of wealth is its real value. This real value of wealth has not yet been properly understood in numerical terms by economists." (1) 

Commonly in society - especially when dealing with laborers - people demand a certain wage. They think that that wage or salary defines their wealth. When, in actuality, the value of that wage is only relative to the cost of living / purchasing capacity. For instance, if a person was making $5 per hour and they got a pay raise to $7 per hour, but the cost of living (food, housing, medicine etc) doubled, then that pay raise makes them more poor. Why? Because their purchasing capacity actually decreased. That is why Prout philosophy states one’s true wealth is determined by their ability to afford the requirements of life. That is one’s purchasing capacity. And if one’s purchasing capacity increases then that has value. The reason being that it means they can buy more with the money they have. Whereas if one’s wage or salary increases but their purchasing capacity remains the same or decreases, then that pay raise does not signify an increase in wealth. 

Reference
1. Proutist Economics, Questions and Answers on Economics – Excerpt B


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Human in form only

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Those who have established themselves in their spiritual being through the practice of spiritual cult are the real human beings. Others, who do not move on the subtler and sublime path of spirituality, and behave like animals, are humans only in name. Human beings alone have the privilege to do sa'dhana'. Animals, because of their intellectual deficiencies, are unable to adhere to the spiritual cult...Human beings, on the other hand, have the capacity to develop even in the spiritual realm. Those who do not pay heed to this special gift are animals, nay, even worse than animals. Animals are unable to make efforts for their spiritual development, whereas humans do have this ability." (1)

Note: Generally people think everyone with a human body as being human, but according to Baba's above teaching all are not human. In the above guideline Baba differentiates how and why.

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 24, Mysticism and Spirituality


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Why no tolerance in collective life

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Human beings will have to practise tolerance. But this spirit of tolerance must be developed only in individual life; in collective life it must not be expressed. If a country illegally grabs even one inch of your land you must take one mile of the aggressor’s land; no spirit of tolerance in this regard is permissible. If you show your tolerance then they will take one inch today and one mile tomorrow. However, you can practise toleration as much as possible in individual life, and that will be considered a sign of greatness." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle


== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

इस विश्व  में तुम्हारे अलावा मेरा कोई नहीं

प्रभात संगीत 2180: तव पथ धरे, तव नाम करे, तोमार पानेइ चले थाकि ......

भावार्थ

हे बाबा! तुम्हारी कृपा से मैं तुम्हारा नाम गाते हुये आगे जा रहा हूँ।, तुम्हारे पथ आनन्द मार्ग पर चलते चलते  तुम्हारी ओर बढ़ता जा रहा हूँ। तुम मेरे लक्ष्य हो। तुम्हारे पास, तुम से निकट और निकट, पहुँचने के लिये मैं तुम्हारी और चल रहा हूँ । इस विश्व  में तुम्हारे अलावा मेरा कौन है? कोई नहीं। यही कारण है कि मैं आश्रय के लिये  तुम्हीं को पुकारता हूँ।

हे बाबा! तुमने अपने सजाए संसार में, अपनी पसन्द के अनुसार मुझे विशेष जगह दी है, और कृपा कर सब कुछ दिया है । हे परमपुरुष! तुम मुझसे ही क्या, किसी से भी बदले में कुछ नहीं चाहते, बस तुम अलौकिक रूप से सब पर अपनी कृपा उड़ेले जाते हो। आलस्य और दीर्घसूत्रता जैसे सब प्रकार के दुर्गुण मुझमें है, और निरर्थक बहाना बनाकर मैं सन्तुष्ट हो जाता हूँ । हे बाबा ! सभी कमियां मुझ में हैं  जबकि हे प्रभु!  तुम सदैव  कृपालु रहते हो, तुम मुझ पर अपनी कृपा में कभी भी कमी नहीं करते।

हे तारक ब्रह्म। बाबा!  तुम्हारे विराट्‌ मन के एकान्त कोने में, मेरे मन को जगह  तुमने दे दी है जहां से मेरा मन तुम्हें पुकारता है, स्पन्दन जगाता है। उस  स्पन्दन के अनुनाद से, मेरे हृदय में प्रेम का कमल खिला है, जो तुम्हारी चाह में तुम्हारी ओर तीव्र इच्छा से निहार रहा है। 


== Section 4: Links ==


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Upcoming: festival of lights + 4 more

Baba
Upcoming: festival of lights

Namaskar,

The 'festival of lights' - Diipa'vali - is nearly upon us (08 Nov 2026). This day is marked by joyous and blissful celebrations for one and all. The festival of Diipavali carries a sublime significance and is also a deeply meaningful event in the social sphere. Here below are Guru’s guidelines for how to celebrate Diipavali in our own units, as well as some of Baba's dharmic teachings about the inner meaning of Diipavali.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ways to celebrate Diipavali

Baba has laid down specific guidelines for observing the wonderful occasion of Diipavali.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Diipa'valii: Once collective Iishvara Pran'idha'na and Varn'a'rghyada'na, illumination, collective merry celebrations, entertaining visitors at one's residence, and procession with ta'n'd'ava dance." (1)


Something for everyone - from young to old

Diipavali is a wonderful occasion for all kinds of heart-warming activities. Per Ananda Marga Caryacarya, we will perform our collective meditation and Guru Puja, i.e. dharmacakra. And that will be accompanied by a wide array of social arrangements: Hosting friends and family, display of lights, spiritual dances, etc.

Festivals like Diipavali are also a perfect time for collective meals, collective bath, games and sports competitions, distribution of sweets, writing contests, art presentations, musical concerts, social talks, spiritual discourses, kiirtan, and all types of other unifying events.

Our social functions offer something for everyone - from young to old where every person from every corner of society can participate, whether they be margii or non-margii. In this way, our Ananda Marga festivals cater to a wide-audience with a diverse array of interests and liking. All types of socially-uplifting activities may be held. Here Baba gives His guideline for the starting point of festival Diipavali.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "At the outset of any festival or social ceremony, the Sam'gacchadvam' mantra is recited, the purpose is to impose the common ideal on all. The love for the entire humanity." (2)


Signify the triumph of the sentient forces

In India, and throughout the northern hemisphere, Diipavali is the darkest night of the year; it is the ama'vasya' (new moon or nil moon) night of the autumn season. And the term 'diipa' itself means lamp in Samskrta. So the Diipavali function is a display which signifies the victory of light over darkness. Citizens and hosts create a show of lights in the sky to signify the triumph of the sentient forces. And this basic idea is outlined in Caryacarya.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Diipa'valii / Ka'rttikii Ama'vasya'. [The new moon of Ka'rttika. As that night is the darkest night of the year, the celebration with... illumination symbolizes the forces of light or vidya' (knowledge) overcoming the forces of darkness or avidya' (ignorance).] (3)

Baba's above teaching is about overcoming negativity with a positive psychic force: Overcome darkness by light.
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Festivals & inner urge

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “People often feel bored with their humdrum lives, with their mechanical routines; thus a fresh start must be created through [[utsava [festivals]. In the Sanskrit language the meaning of the word sava is “to take birth”; the root verb sú plus al suffix equals sava, and su means “to take birth”.]] The substance which [[makes one feel that one’s body has been reborn]] is called ásava [an alcoholic drink thought to have energizing properties]. Similarly ut – sú + al = utsava [which means “festival”]. “Ut” means “above” and “sava” means “[[to take]] birth”; so utsava means “an occasion which gives human beings fresh inspiration to live a new life.” (4)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “When people become tired and uninspired, when they can no longer look towards the future with hope, when their colourful dreams are shattered, at that time the sweetness of a festival brings new joy and vigour in life. Thus in individual and collective life, the importance of festivals is tremendous. One should always remember that festivals should be such that all can take part in them without any ostentatious display of wealth, and with an upsurge of their life force. And these festivals should be conducted in such a way that people take part in them from a spontaneous inner urge. I hope that you will make such arrangements so that all are attracted towards your festivals which will be more and more charming – and this will bring about your collective welfare.” (5)

Light the lamp of the inner heart

The following idea is from Sadguru Baba’s DMC discourse of June 1990, “The Cult of Spirituality – the Cult of Pinnacled Order”: 

The external show of lights during Diipavali / Diipávalii is the outer presentation of the internal idea that we are to “illumine the inner heart with the divine effulgence of Parama Purusa.”

So the external show of lights done at our social functions is just to display the inner feeling of the heart - “to light the lamp of our heart with His divine love.” Because ultimately anyone can engage in the external show of Diipavali by lighting candles - but that is not the main goal. Rather, it is the inner heart’s lamp of bhakti which should be lit. So the real essence of Diipávalii - the inner Diipavali of the heart - is to engage in spiritual practices, by His divine grace. That is the unique aspect of this Ananda Marga festival.
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Otherwise just to engage in an external show of lights is not our tantric way. Our path of Ananda Marga is based on the most sublime spiritual ideal. So we practice everything in a spiritual manner - lighting the internal lamp of bhakti by His grace. This is Diipávalii in our Ananda Marga system.

Diipavali of the atma' (soul)

Here again is the central idea of what Baba spoke on 03 June 1990 in His DMC discourse: Cult of Spirituality:
  • The darkness of the mind should be removed. 'In each and every house there is a festival of light, yet my home is dark', one should not say like this. Instead, there should be diivali (festival of light) in the home, and it is the diivali of the atma' (festival of soul) .
And if you wish to see Baba present that idea in the original Hindi, here is the link to the video
Our A'nanda Ma'rga Baba places great emphasis on the celebration of our various festivals. They are a time of rejoicing in all the spheres of life.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "You should make arrangements for different types of festivity on the occasions of the ceremonial functions of the Marga. Ensure that those who enjoy the celebrations also get thereby healthy opportunities for their physical growth, mental development and spiritual progress." (6)

We should ensure that in all our AMPS units, there is a specially-designed program for Diipavali.
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Festival brings joy & vigour

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “When people become tired and uninspired, when they can no longer look towards the future with hope, when their colourful dreams are shattered, at that time the sweetness of a festival brings new joy and vigour in life. Thus in individual and collective life, the importance of festivals is tremendous. One should always remember that festivals should be such that all can take part in them without any ostentatious display of wealth, and with an upsurge of their life force. And these festivals should be conducted in such a way that people take part in them from a spontaneous inner urge. I hope that you will make such arrangements so that all are attracted towards your festivals which will be more and more charming – and this will bring about your collective welfare.” (7)

In our AM way of life, festivals or social functions serve a particular purpose. They satisfy a special need for the society as they bring one and all together. They help cultivate family feeling, cosmic brotherhood, and serve as a reminder that we are all one. Festivals strengthen the social fabric and bring social harmony and good feeling to all. They are a special way to help cultivate the feeling of 'one human society' and bring everyone close.
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Collective social functions brings unity

In His 'Social Psychology' discourse, Baba describes the unique role and special purpose which social functions like Diipávalii serve.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Common social functions bring different members of society together and are, therefore, a great unifying force." (8)

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Preservation of unity in society. If it is possible to enthuse the members of society with the following they will ensure unity in society - a common ideal, a casteless society, collective social functions and no capital punishment." (9)

Festivals, or collective social functions, are one of three or four specific recommendations which Baba gives for establishing and maintaining unity in the society.

Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Sutreshvara Deva

~ In-depth study ~

Naemittik kriyá & festival

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “Kriyá is of two types: Nitya kriyá and naemittik kriyá. Those actions which are essential for the preservation of human existence are nitya kriyá, whereas those which are occasional and done with some other purpose are called naemittik kriyá. For instance, eating, bathing, resting, spiritual practice are nitya kriyá, because without food, drink, bathing and rest, etc., physical human existence become endangered, and in the absence of spiritual practice human psychic degeneration is unavoidable. Hence, in the daily lives of human beings, spiritual practice is indispensable. Regular spiritual practice leads to psycho-spiritual parallelism. A sadhaka slowly and steadily advances spiritually and finally becomes ensconced in the supreme spiritual stance. Naemittik kriyá are actions which are occasional and done with a set purpose, such as employment, study, charity, festivals, observances, etc. Naemittik kriyá may have a certain value in human life but is not as essential as nitya kriyá.” (10)

Comforts of women during festivals

Ananda Marga Caryacarya, “Men and women are human beings having equal dignity. As the physical strength of women is less than that of men, the latter should always endeavour to save the prestige of women. As the mothers of men, women can claim this much as a right. Special attention should be paid to the comforts of women during festivals, at spiritual conferences, and on other occasions.” (11)

Festivals of Ananda Marga irrespective of caste

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “If the people of a particular caste are considered superior to other castes, economic injustice will be encouraged. In India, the so-called upper-caste Hindus perpetrate injustice on the Harijan community (the so-called untouchables). This has created a serious rift in the society. To eradicate this sort of social injustice, caste divisions should be completely abolished. In Ananda Marga, in the very first phase of initiation, a new member is taught to forget both their caste and colour. In the functions and festivals of a society based on caste divisions, the influence of caste prejudice is tremendous. In the collective functions and festivals of Ananda Marga, everyone, irrespective of caste, community or colour, can freely participate. In the society in general, the difference between castes and communities is given too much importance. Ananda Marga rejects these narrow sentiments.” (12)

Our festivals are for both young & aged

During diipavali, there should be various plans and programs for the children to enjoy this festival. They can engage in the arts, sports, music, spiritual practices, games, and competitions, and enjoy special treats etc.
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   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Humans are social beings. So every human being likes utsava. It is the desire of all that they will rejoice unitedly. In Europe Puritanism failed in the end, only because the Puritans failed to care for the desires of the general public. They preached their theory only to a handful of devotees of knowledge.”
   “Ananda Marga is for the general public. So, considering the necessity of the general mass, proper importance has to be given to the Utsava in social life. Enthusiasm in a utsava is the greatest in the children, in the tender aged boys, in the youths and last of all in grown ups. In the programmes of a Utsava, therefore, you shall think for the children first. Their sweet stammering noises ensure the success of the Utsava. But whatever arrangements you may make for the children, the youngsters, youths, or for the grown-ups, make that there is no dearth of discipline even to the minutest extent anywhere. Let there be complete harmony...” (13)

Also for diipavali there should be scope for the elderly and aged to engage in various activities, share their talents and experiences, and be treated with deep regard and respect etc.

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “A grown up man does not like that others should call him grown up. An old man does not like that others should tell him old. Do you know, why they do not like to be said so? The adults or the aged are nearing death. This means that one is drawing nearer death as one grow up and this is why one does not like to be told grown up or old.”
   “Taking this for granted regarding human psychology, you shall arrange for two or three items in the programme for the old to enjoy, so that they may think at least for a short time that they are not old, they have sufficient energy still left in them.” (14)

Our Samskrta names

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the ácárya/á. The word deva [deva for brothers and devii for sisters] should be suffixed to the name...the more the usage of deva / [devii] as a title, the better it is. The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings." (15)

References
1. Caryacarya-1, chapter 21
2. Prout Nutshell - 4, Our Social Treatise
3. Caryacarya - 1, chapter 21
4. A Few Problems Solved - 5, On Festivals
5. A Few Problems Solved - 5, On Festivals
6. Caryacarya - 1, Social Functions and Festivals
7. A Few Problems Solved - 5, On Festivals
8. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Social Psychology
9. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Social Psychology
10. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 4, Nitya Karma and Naemittik Karma
11. Caryacarya, part 1, Social Relationship between Men and Women
12. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 4, Our Social Treatise
13. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva)
14. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva)
15. Caryacarya - 1, The Process of Initiation


*        *        *

The below sections are entirely different topics, unrelated to the above material.
They stand on their own as points of interest.

*        *        *

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Rg veda’s place in history

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Although the Rgveda is mainly concerned with hymns, it also contains various tales and anecdotes. While not all of these stories and tales carry equal spiritual value, they are representative of the cultural heritage of those ancient humans. They paint a portrait of the gradual advancement of human thinking and the structure of society. When considered from this point of view, the language, literature and expression of the Rgveda is of special value to the world." (1)

Ananda Marga ideology states, “We can roughly say that civilization first started sprouting after the prehistoric age of the human race, that is, from the days of the first composition of the Rk Veda, about 15,000 years ago. A major change took place during the days of Lord Shiva towards the end of the Rk Vedian period (which lasted 10,000 years). (2)

Reference
1. Shabda Cayanika-2, Rk to Rkśa (Discourse 11)
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 8, Sadvipra, Táraka Brahma, Sadáshiva and Shrii Krśńa


== Section: Important Teaching ==

How to breeze through your saḿskáras

In the below quote Baba teaches the following points:
(a) Sadhakas do not get terrified when facing their bad samskaras / reactive momenta. Those who are confused think about their suffering always. 
(b) While undergoing suffering of their past deeds, they are focused on Brahma. And they continue on in their sadhana. Due to this, the seeds of their future samskaras are also burned. 
(c) Because one does sadhana, they always think they are pure - not a sinner. By this way they cleanse themselves. 
(d) Due to their normal sadhana, their suffering due to pain and pleasure wanes because they are always in bliss. So they do not feel any misery or loss. 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Learned people know that the requitals or consequences of deeds (karmaphala) are inevitably bound to follow one's actions, and so they do not waste time uselessly thinking about them. Fortified with courage and instilled with Brahmabháva they face all calamities of retribution bravely. They always consider themselves pure, for they have purged their minds of the past. Those who have tasted even a little of the flowing nectar of Brahma, know that they can never be impure. This constant thought of self-purity greatly helps to exhaust their saḿskáras or reactive momenta, as a result of which the saḿskáras held in the sthirabhúmi of their práńa are gradually destroyed. With the help of sádhaná or spiritual practice the spell of pleasurable and painful requitals ceases both internally and externally. Sádhakas call it the combustion of the seed of action in the fire of sádhaná." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 5, The Chariot and the Charioteer


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Why religious professionals are like parasites

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Religion is practiced for the fulfilment of mundane aspirations. This is the reason why a class of clergymen emerged centring around the religion. Ultimately the adherents of these religions become mere tools in the hands of vested interests. With the awakening of nityánitya viveka in human minds and the opening of the door of scientific knowledge, it will not be possible to deceive the people in the name of religion or by holding out the lure of happiness in the next world. The vested interests are quite aware of this fact and hence strive to keep the masses lost in the darkness of ignorance. Like parasites, they manoeuvre themselves to misappropriate, by injecting fear and inferiority complexes, a lion's share of what the ignorant masses earn with their sweat and blood." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 7, The Five Kinds of Conscience


== Section: Important Teaching ==

How to recognise & handle hypocrites


Ananda Marga Caryacarya states:

"Hypocrites are:"
    "(a) Those who give indulgence to falsehood;"
    "(b) Those who are ungrateful to their benefactors;"
    "(c) Those who do not keep their word;"
    "(d) Those who betray;"
    "(e) Those who slander behind one's back."

"You may come to a temporary truce with a hypocrite, but do not forgive till his/her nature is reformed. Immediate forgiveness is a special weakness of mind. It results in worse harm to society. Those who cherish class distinctions, communalism, provincialism and casteism while indulging in propaganda about universalism are also hypocrites." (1)

Reference
1. Caryacarya, part 2, Society, points #5 - 6


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Answer to religious intolerance

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Religion and intolerance have created enormous harm in the world, have caused torrents of blood to stain the rivers red. In the present twentieth century, religions have assumed the form of “isms”. The people of medieval times fought among the clans and communities, and the people of today are fighting over their “isms”...To emancipate the masses from the unhealthy influence of “isms” there is no other way than universalism. Only universalism is free from the defects of any narrow isms because every thing of this entire universe comes within its vast periphery.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - part 7, The Five Kinds of Conscience (Viveka)


== Section 2: Links ==

Postings on Democracy

In these few days and weeks, many minor and major elections are being held in numerous democratic states and nations across the globe. As Ananda Margiis, we should be cent-per-cent clear about Prout's critique of democracy so we can best educate others and raise awareness about the inherent weaknesses and deficiencies, as well as the positive points, of the various types of democracies that exist today. 

Political vs economic democracy

Economic democracy is the solution

A few weaknesses in democracy



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