Blissful times: Baba & Prabhat Samgiita + 4 more

Baba

Blissful times: Baba & Prabhat Samgiita

Note: Prabhat Samgiita day is on 14 September as that was the day Baba gave His first composition in 1982.

Namaskar, 

When I think about those days, I still feel the scene was as if heaven descended upon this earth. So blissful and charming, His presence was. Sometimes Baba would open His eyes and look around and then close His eyes and listen quietly.

When one song finished, if the song was new, then playing His divine liila Baba used to ask one and all: "Do you all approve of this song? Should I include it in Prabhat Samgiita?".

Margiis used to respond, "Yes Baba, it must be included! It is very good!"

Then, in His divine liila, Baba used to say, "You are my guardians. If you don't accept it, then I will tear it apart and throw it away."

Hearing this, everyone used to smile. And Baba used to say, "Ok, when you have approved this song, then it will be included in Prabhat Samgiita."

He used to do this type of grand play regularly. Sometimes it seems like He did this with each and every song. And always it was so beautifully done, and everyone basked in the sweet atmosphere.
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Everyone must sing

On another occasion, after Prabhat Samgiita had just been sung, Baba asked, "Who was not singing?"

Then immediately everybody became extremely alert. When the next song started, everybody was very careful, and all VSS personnel were keenly watching. That very day I felt that Baba was pointedly telling us that everyone should sing Prabhat Samgiita, and nobody should think that Prabhat Samgiita is for Bengalis only or for a few professional musicians etc.

By this way, by encouraging and attracting us all to step forward and sing, Baba used to come and bless us. And we used to sing Prabhat Samgiita. Those memories are unforgettable. This whole entire scene of receiving Him with Prabhat Samgiita was so blissful. I feel that Prabhat Samgiita is a special, unique gift which has no comparison.

Conclusion

This is a small glimpse into the glorious scene those days of how we would receive Him with Prabhat Samgiita and how He would shower us in His endless love.
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The conclusive idea then is that the reception of Baba is the greatest singular event in the life of a bhakta. This is the most cherished occasion and most auspicious moment. Baba has transformed the process and specially designated Prabhat Samgiita as the chosen medium whereby bhakas can receive Him, then that means Prabhat Samgiita has a special value. It has a sanctified role and blessed stance.

So it is our duty to recognize this truth and uphold the sacred standard of Prabhat Samgiita - and not allow others to taint this holy and divine treasure.

It was always so enchanting to be there to receive Baba those days. Still this divine scene is unfolding in the heart and mind of each and every sadhaka. In dhyana, we call for Him to come close and grace us with His presence. As beautiful as it was to be there those days, often I feel that receiving Him now in Guru cakra is even more sweet. Without all the external obstacles, one can openly share and express the feeling of the heart with Him - and always He responds.

Namaskar,
In Him,
Madhukar

Receiving Him before 1982

At all the gatherings prior to 1982, whether big or small, Baba was received with the strong force of the slogan, "Parama Pita Baba Ki-- Jai!". After September 1982, when Prabhat Samgiita was introduced, Baba was always received by the more intimate singing of Prabhat Samgiita.
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Of course at the large annual DMC programs when thousands and thousands were attending, then surely all were raising the 'Parama Pita Baba Ki- Jai!' slogan in one thunderous voice when Baba arrived in the pandal. So at the global DMC's that was the scene, even up to 1990.

But it should be remembered that at all such grand occasions, when leaving His room at the BQ (Baba Quarters) then those present were receiving Him with Prabhat Samgiita and then when He would arrive at the pandal for DMC, all the bhaktas would raise the Jai slogan. So both were being done. This was the case during His 1984 tour across India when He performed 16 DMC's, as well as in 1987 for the Bhagalpur DMC. Plus this was the normal way when He was in Ranchi, or Ananda Shiila, or Diigha etc. At all these places where DMC was held after 1982, Baba was greeted and received with Prabhat Samgiita when He emerged from the BQ, and then the resounding Jai slogan was raised when He reached the pandal. That is how it was for DMC.

On all other countless occasions, whether coming or going from His house, or for general darshan, or field walk etc, in all those blissful moments of His divine arrival, then Baba was always received with the tender sweetness of Prabhat Samgiita. This was the standard approach after 1982.

To field walk 

Already the driver had the car parked to that spot where Baba would come out from the house. And we would all anxiously crowd around and encircle the automobile - positioning ourselves in any way we could to see Baba when He would emerge from the house. All were involved in singing Prabhat Samgiita - everyone's mind fully vibrated with a strong desire to see Him. With this great anticipation and devotional longing, we would sing Prabhat Samgiita and look anxiously for His grand arrival.
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When we sensed that Baba would soon be coming, the inner spiritual yearning would be even more aroused - all wishing to see Him. Finally, the auspicious moment arrived and He would grace us with His exquisite presence. He was always so sweet and charming. On many occasions, Baba would stand there to talk and say something. The car was ready and the door was opened for Him to get in, yet Baba would move slowly to grant us time to gaze at Him. With His beautiful countenance, He would stand there inquiring about our welfare or giving some direction, and we would cherish each and every moment with Him before He would have to enter the car and go for a fieldwalk. It was such a blissful scene - even today - every moment in one mind's eye this can be experienced.

Upon His return a similar scene would occur. Once the gate to the driveway opened and we knew Baba's car was returning then we would quickly rush in and line up along the edges of the driveway. Whatever activities, duties, talks or dealings were going on stopped immediately. All were eager to get a spot to see Him. The vibration were palpable. Everyone came rushing, yet there was not much space along the driveway. There had to be enough room for His car to pass, yet all wanted to be close. Somehow we all managed to grab a sacred space - along that tiny area along the side of the driveway - in hopes of seeing Him. We would all anticipate His arrival, singing Prabhat Samgiita - anxiously watching for His car to come in from the road. Finally, He would arrive and while singing we would carefully watch Him emerge from His car. In this way we would receive Him. All were singing and some were lovingly calling and crying, "Baba, Baba, Baba. " The whole scene was so charged with love and bhakti. And still today and in the future also, sadhakas can intimately experience this same type of closeness - or even greater intimacy with Him.
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*        *        *

The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

Unparalleled charm

“Bandhu...ye va toma'ya bale kat'hora...
Ka'che ele bujhebe se jana, Sujana toma'ra mata keha na'i…” (Prabhat Samgiita #0268)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, my Bandhu, I won't ever be fearful of Your harshness. During the journey on this path of divine effulgence I will go on looking towards You. You are my everything.

Baba, those who say that You are not kind do not understand Your greatness. The reality is that Your harshness is covering Your heavenly softness.

Baba whoever tells You are unkind remains far away from You. If that person comes close, they will understand that no one else is as tender and charming as You. No one is as sweet and loving as You...

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Fasting: pregnant & nursing mothers

Namaskar,

Baba’s chief guideline about fasting is contingent upon one’s standard of health. If you are of excellent health then you can practice our AM system of fasting.

Ananda Marga Yogic Treatments states: “Only persons in very good health and with good energy should fast without water. Persons suffering from gall or kidney-stones should never undertake a waterless fast. Sick persons and people in mediocre health should observe fasting taking plenty of lemon juice and water. Persons who are very weak may take a small quantity of fruit and milk.” (1)

So in His above teaching Baba’s fasting guideline delineates three grades of people: (a) very healthy, (b) sick or mediocre health, (c) very weak.

In Him,
Kalpana Devii

Generally, when we women are pregnant we are in the prime years of our life and full of vitality. Our physical health is very good; indeed, it is the ideal time to sustain a new babe.

Hence, we mothers who are pregnant or breastfeeding and in very good health are encouraged to follow Baba’s fasting guideline from Sixteen Points. So long as a medical professional has evaluated your condition and can attest to the high overall state of health, then you are welcome and advised to fast. That’s to say, there should not be any confusion about this: There is no health guideline or conduct rule barring any pregnant or nursing mom from engaging in a dry fast. After all, neither pregnancy nor breast-feeding is a disease. You can be pregnant and / or breast feeding and be in a wonderful state of health. In that case, as a mother you may fast.

However, sometimes we may become sick or weakened during these times in which case we should consult a medical professional who is keenly familiar with yogic teachings and our AM way of life and then refer to Baba’s aforementioned guidelines about fasting.

There are times and conditions when Baba has given stipulations for women - and this is for our welfare. For instance:
 
(a) “A woman should be allowed to rest and abstain from all sorts of household chores for at least twenty-one days after a childbirth.” (Caryacarya - 3, General Health Rules)

(b) “During menstruation, pregnancy and within one month of delivery, women must not practise ásanas or any other exercise.” (Caryacarya - 3, Asanas, Rules for ásanas, Point #21)

But there are no such guidelines that bar pregnant / breastfeeding women from fasting. 

Reference
1. Yogic Treatments and Natural Remedies, Appendix: Fasting

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Know these three cardinal socio-political principles

  Prout philosophy states, “For the all-round welfare and development of human beings, society needs to follow some fundamental socio-political principles. Without the firm foundation of such principles, disunity, injustice and exploitation will flourish. To avoid this and to safeguard the interests of all people, the leaders of society must ensure that cardinal socio-political principles are strictly followed. Otherwise, individual and collective progress can never be achieved.”
   “There are three cardinal socio-political principles which should never be violated. First, people should not be retrenched from their occupations unless alternative employment has been arranged for them. Secondly, people should not be forcibly converted from one religion to another. Thirdly, no mother tongue should be suppressed. Occupation, spiritual practice and mother tongue are very important to human beings. If the sentiments associated with them are hurt, human beings will be deeply affected. So, you should never violate these cardinal socio-political principles.” (1)

   Prout philosophy states, “If any group tries to violate any of these three cardinal socio-political principles, you should immediately oppose them with a thundering voice and sufficient force. Victory will be yours, because you are supporting the collective psychology. But before launching any movement, you should make sure that the masses are conscious of their exploitation, otherwise the movement will not be successful. Although it may take some time to raise the consciousness of the masses, ultimately you will be victorious.” (2)

References
1. Prout in a Nutshell-16, Three Cardinal Socio-Political Principles
2. Prout in a Nutshell-16, Three Cardinal Socio-Political Principles

== Section 3: Links ==

Prabhat Samgiita Day - 14 September

Spiritual treasure: PS

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2022/11/prema-of-bhakta.html

Intimacy of PS

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/09/intimacy-of-prabhat-samgiita.html

PS: how it all began

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/08/history-what-devotees-were-singing.html

Postings to Read

AM lifestyle saves money

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/10/how-to-save-money-3-more.html

How to face controversy

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/loose-or-strict-3-more.html

Solution to flickering mind

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/04/how-to-focus-in-sadhana-2-4-more.html

About Baba's mango grove story

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/03/inner-sense-of-mango-story.html

Proper outlook: not here for long

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/06/how-ignorance-causes-depression.html

AM lifestyle saves money + 3 more

Baba

AM lifestyle saves money

Namaskar,

In this day and age, people waste a lot of time trying to earn more and more money - laboring anywhere from 8 - 10 hours daily, or even 18 hours in a single day. Plus most people are extremely worried about money - so they think about earning money even when they are not working. They eat, sleep, and dream about it. In this way their entire psyche and days are consumed.

The general psychology in materialism / capitalism is to earn more and spend more. That becomes their entire life - that is the unfortunate truth. The tragedy is that human life is about so much more than just collecting money. Human life is far larger than this.
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To resolve this important issue, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji has given a beautiful way of living that is very easy for everyone to do. And by following His guidelines, one is sure to save huge amounts of money. So if you are suffering from any sort of financial worry or fiscal need, then read this following letter.


Ways of save: AM way of life - 1

Here is a brief list of other ways any sadhaka of the Marga will certainly save money. Again, anyone can follow this approach and get the financial benefits.

- Fasting: By fasting 2 or 4 times monthly, we Ananda Margiis save 1 - 2 months worth of food over the course of the entire year. Plus fasting purifies the body and keeps us disease-free, and away from expensive medical visits.

- Marriage: In some traditions huge money or dowries are paid to get one's children married. We do not subscribe to such dogmas. Our social ceremonies are free.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya guides us, “A marriage feast is completely optional and depends upon the financial capacity of the people concerned. Arranging the feast by taking a loan or incurring a debt is prohibited.” (1)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya guides us, “For the celebration of this ceremony the arrangement of a social feast depends entirely on the desire and the financial position of the guardians concerned. Taking a loan or incurring a debt for this purpose is forbidden.” (2)

- Tiirtha / Pilgrimage: Traveling to so-called holy lands like Mecca, Jerusalem or Varanasi each year is an expensive proposition. In Ananda Marga, we do not have such destinations - the only tiirtha in Ananda Marga is atma-tiirtha, i.e. inside you.
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Ways of save: AM way of life - 2

- Ritualistic Prayer: In the various religions, prayer can be expensive as one must spend money on those rituals and related paraphernalia to please their imposed deity. For example, to please the monkey god one must offer laddu - which is an expensive sweet. To do this everyday becomes quite costly. In stark contrast, in Ananda Marga there are no such rituals and there is also no middleman between you and Parama Purusa. There is a direct link, whereas in the religions there is always a middle man between the follower and God, going through that middle man can be quite costly. Acaryas are not a middle-man.

- Birth & Death: Here again these entail social ceremonies that do not cost any money in Ananda Marga, whereas in the dogmatic churches and temples, moderate to large sums of money need to be paid. Plus without a large payment, one will not even find a spot in the cemetery or get a good casket, whereas in Ananda Marga the body is burned at no expense to the deceased or their family.

- Hobbies: In Ananda Marga, our only hobby is social service and helping others by collecting donations, or by volunteering, whereas in the so-called first-world nations average citizens spend enormous amounts of money on hobbies and recreational activities. Thus we save a lot in this department as well.

- Yoga asanas: The daily practice of yoga asanas helps keep the glandular system balanced and the body vibrant. By this way, one can enjoy enduring health and save huge money by avoiding costly medical visits, medicines, and related expenses. It also enables one to maintain their livelihood.  

- Psychic Disease: Ananda Marga sadhana keeps the mind balanced and without sadhana people encounter so many mental problems: frustration, depression, angst, phobias etc. In that case they have to spend big money on psychiatrists and psychologists.
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Ways of save: AM way of life - 3

- Inferiority Complex: Anyone with an inferiority is bound to be exploited. Sadhana will free the mind from such complexes.

- Religious 10% Taxes vs Ananda Marga 2% Donation: In most of the religions, the tax for the average member is 10% or so of their annual income. In Ananda Marga we donate 2% for social service projects and the welfare of society. By this way the overall status of society improves - there is less want and hence less crime. And all along we save 8% in comparison to those paying a religious tax where the money may be spent in all kinds of materialistic ways. Another benefit of the 2% donation is that Baba says the mind will become tamasik if one keeps all their money for oneself.

And there are a multitude of other ways in which we save money. And when there is less financial liability then there is far greater scope to devote more time for sadhana.


Best way

The guidelines in this letter are for everyone. If you are already an Ananda Margii or a sympathizer of the Marga, you will readily see how much you are saving by following Ananda Marga practices. Plus you may get some new tips as well.

And if you are not yet an Ananda Margii, then by reading the below you will get a clear-cut vision of how following our Ananda Marga way of life will benefit you financially. This letter is for absolutely anyone and everyone who wishes to save money and live a financially secure life.
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No intoxicants: save money

In Ananda Marga, as we all know, or as new people will soon learn, the use of intoxicants is not allowed in Ananda Marga - none. This is the first great way of saving money by leading life as an Ananda Margii. Cigarettes, beer, wine, and hard alcohol are all getting taxed verily heavily by the city, state, provincial and federal governments. So the prices of these substances are skyrocketing.

Smoking a pack a day over the course of a year would add up to more than several thousand dollars - at a minimum. And this type of increase is happening everywhere. The same thing is going on with regards to alcohol.

In Ananda Marga, there is no scope to use cigarettes, or any of these other legal intoxicants like alcohol etc. They are now allowed. That transmits into huge savings. Just ask any ex-smoker or ex-drinker and they will most assuredly tell you about all the money they have saved by quitting their habit.


No drugs, drinking alcohol: save money

Then of course there are the illegal drugs like hashish, cocaine, heroin etc. These all cost a huge amount of money - it is big business - but for Ananda Margiis this is a non-issue entirely. So here again a lot of money is saved. Included in this topic are other health costs and legal fees. If one is using intoxicants of any kind they will certainly have to spend more money on doctors fees, health concerns, insurance premiums, hospital care and other medications etc, since those intoxicants will ruin their health.

In addition, drinking and driving can kill you and it is illegal so if one gets caught by the police they will incur exorbitant legal fees in order to clear their name and stay out of jail, if possible. Same is the case if they are caught using illegal drugs. Not only are the drugs expensive and addicting, but one will have to spend huge money on attorney fees to clear their name in a court of law.
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So from multiple angles, our clean way of living that is free of any and all intoxicants saves us a lot of money. That is the first great savings for being an Ananda Margii.


Plant-based diet = money-saver

Our style of eating, i.e. our vegetarian diet, is also a big money saver. In most places, fresh fruit and vegetables are far less costly than meat - both on our wallet and our health. Our daily or weekly shopping is less expensive plus we will not face all the health issues that hinders meat-eaters. So we will not have to pay those big medical bills either.

Studies show how the foods for eating home-prepared vegetarian meals is cheaper (and healthier) than a meat-based diet. Also always look into buying foods in bulk - one can save a lot of money this way. There is much more involved in this point of food, but I think most of us are aware about them. And already there is a lot of information out there about the extreme financial and health costs of a meat-based diet.

No restaurants / dining out: One other aspect of the point of food is that as Ananda Margiis we do not dine in restaurants or hotels. Of course the reason we do not do this is because those places are not sentient: The dishes are dirty, the ingredients are unknown, and the cooks are non-sadhakas. So that is why true margiis / wts do not dine in such establishments. And eating in these restaurants is an expensive habit. By not frequenting restaurants, we save a lot of money. What average people spend on a single meal in a restaurant is enough funds for wise, vegetarian shoppers to eat for 1 or 2 weeks at home.


"Gambling house" always wins

Much of the world indulges in gambling - in some form or another - either in casinos, or on-line, or at sporting events, or in lotteries, etc. The tragedy with gambling is the the "house" always wins. People waste their time and hard-earned money and come home empty handed. Not only do they lose their money, but they lose their mental balance as well. Because as gambling is an addiction. People will even sell their most valued possessions in order to support their gambling habit. Indeed, even the great King Yudhisthira lost his entire wealth and property in a game of dice. Such are the ill effects of gaming and gambling.
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Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "The habit of making wagers is extremely undesirable. You must avoid lotteries and gambling." (3)

When there is no gambling allowed in AM way of life then there is no question of losing money or wasting one's time. This is an absolute money-saver.

In Ananda Marga, emphasis is placed on spiritual attainment, not material gain. According to Ananda Marga ideals, devotion is most important, not matter. In that case one need not earn a lot of money to purchase a fancy vehicle in order to gain prestige and respect in society. One need not compete with their neighbor in the material sphere. Rather, one should compete in good conduct and Sixteen Points. That is the most meaningful investment one can make - i.e. towards their spiritual life. By this outlook alone, one can save tremendous amounts of money and utilise their time in dharmic pursuits.


No financial and psychic loss

In our present era, to support the aforementioned race for material wealth, loans are a big, big point. Many people around the world, especially in the materialistic western nations, make it a hobby or even career in life to spend money which they do not have. People incur debt by taking big loans to pay for things that they cannot afford: clothes, fancy meals, i-Phones, sports cars, gadgets, etc. By this way they lose money in two ways: Firstly by purchasing a costly item which they do not really need; secondly by having to pay the interest on the loan for that item. It is a double loss.

Yet all "modern economies" around the globe are based on this faulty precept. Not only do individuals and families indulge in this, but entire cities, counties, states and even whole nations embark on this defective manner of taking loans to pay for things they cannot afford. From beginning to end this is a costly and mentally taxing affair. People stay awake at night wondering and worrying about how they are going to pay back their loan. And countries even go 100% bankrupt. That is what we are witnessing today.
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Baba's warnings on loan and debt

In Ananda Marga, Baba is entirely against the idea of taking a loan or incurring debt for superfluous items.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "To purchase, by incurring debt, serge where tweed will do, or gaberdine where serge will do, is surely against the principle of aparigraha." (4)

Indeed the entire spirit of aparigraha is to live in a simple manner, within one's means. This is only possible if one can to cultivate the requisite santosa (mental ease), such that a person will not senselessly run after material goods. As Baba points out in many discourses, the practices of aparigraha and santosa are closely linked.

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Human desire knows no end. Millionaires want to become multi-millionaires, because they are not satisfied with their million. Ask the millionaires if they are happy with their money. They will say, “Where is the money? I am somehow pulling on.” This answer indicates their ignorance of aparigraha. But such feelings have another adverse effect on body and mind." (5)

External allurements

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "Out of excessive fondness for physical or mental pleasures people become mad to earn money and amass wealth. As money becomes the be-all and end-all of life, the mind gets crudified. Constant hankering after money results in negligence of one’s health, and this makes the body unfit. Therefore, santos'a sa'dhana' lies in being contented with the earnings of normal labour, without any undue pressure on the body and mind. To remain contented, one has to make a special type of mental effort to keep aloof from external allurements." (6)

Hence by following yama and niyama and doing sadhana, one can easily become adept at the points of aparigraha and santosa. And this will lead to saving so much money - huge amounts. Because without aparigraha and santosa, one will become a prisoner to the consumer mentality of "buy this" & "buy that" which is so infested within capitalism.
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This topic of loans is highly linked with one’s mental state and yama and niyama. When the mind is balanced one will steer clear of all kinds of unneeded purchases as well as unnecessary loans, thereby saving tremendous amounts of money.

Conclusion: save lots of money

Baba has graciously given us the perfect system for living in this era of economic struggle and strife. By following His life principles we are bound to save large sums of money and feel relaxed about our financial picture.

So if anyone is suffering from economic turmoil, just become an Ananda Margii or redouble one's efforts in following 16 Pts. Then one will be worry-free and unencumbered by economic problems.

Let us remember that human life is short and it is meant for sadhana, not getting caught up in financial concerns.
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Baba says, "One should not forget that human life is short. From the moment of birth one slowly and steadily advances towards death with every passing second. This short period of time from birth to death is human life. Human beings have come from the world of invisibility and at the end of this short span of time will return to the world of invisibility. Those people can be called intelligent who utilize every moment of their short life engaged in spiritual practice." (7)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Anandeshvara                                                                                                                                                            

~ In-depth study ~

Baba's special order about loans

Here furthermore is another of Baba's special guideline about taking loans.

Baba says, "I am also giving one more advice in regard to aparigraha. If any Margis have to spend on anything in addition to the fixed expenditure (for example, expensive clothing, ornaments, articles of furniture, marriage, building, etc.), they should, before incurring such expenditure, obtain a clear order from their a'ca'rya, unit secretary or district secretary, or any other person of responsible rank. Similarly, permission is to be obtained before taking loan from any businessman or money-lender." (8) 

Because if you are drowning in loans and debt, your AMPS unit margiis will advise you and help create a financial plan for you to pay it back.

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Good for one and all

In this materialistic era, the mass of people weigh most of their decisions on money. People want to know what is most economical. This plays into our favour as this entire letter aims to show the innumerable ways how living life as an Ananda Margii saves you money. So this is a good pracara strategy: Save money by becoming an Ananda Margii.

In addition, challenging or severe economic times are mounting, so as Ananda Margiis we need not worry so much since in a multitude of ways our way of life is the most economical. It is a better deal fiscally. By saving money, working less, and sincerely engaging in sadhana, one will reach up to the height of spiritual realisation as well.

By the above listing of points, it is easy to see how and why our Ananda Marga way of life is great in all realms of life, including financially.
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Ananda Marga ideology states, “You take much service from the world, by way of subsistence and maintenance, which you must return, or else you accrue a debt. If you are burdened with a big loan at the time of death, what will happen? You will have to be reborn in order to repay your debt with interest.” (9)


References
1. Caryacarya - 1, Marriage Ceremony
2. Caryacarya - 1, Infant's Játakarma: The Naming of and First Feeding of Solid Food to an Infant
3. Caryacarya - 2, Society, Point #38
4. A Guide to Human Conduct
5. A Guide to Human Conduct
6. A Guide to Human Conduct
7. Ananda Marga Philosophy in a Nutshell - 4, Nitya Karma and Naemittik Karma
8. A Guide to Human Conduct
9. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 30, Self-Realization and Service to Humanity

*        *        *

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 ==

You continually save me

"Tumi pather dhu'loya nebechile, shudhu a'ma're upare tulite..." (Prabhat Samgiita #1384)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, You came down on this dusty path only for lifting me up; it is Your grace. You have done so many things for me, yet I remain oblivious about You. Even then You do not mind and You go on blessing me.

Baba, You made the path beautiful and lit the lamp to make my spiritual pathway crystal clear. On both sides of the path there was the chasm of vanity. In my blindness, I deviated and fell into that abyss. I did not use my eyes to see properly. Instead, I was covering my eyes with both of my hands and I kept moving until inevitably I lost the way and fell down into the deep, dark gorge of dogma.  

Baba, You then guided me and told, “Look towards the path and be fixed on the Goal.” And You also told me that with a pointed mind I should love that Ista, Taraka Brahma. But I did not care and instead remained oblivious and indulged in my lustful pursuits. I was completely engrossed in ephemeral pleasures in the mirage of my temporary and useless hobbies - even then You saved me. 

Baba, You descended on this dusty earth to lift me up from the dungeon and onto Your lap. You are so very gracious....

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Moral duty in suicide

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Those who commit suicide, do it when their mind is in a negative state. It is unnatural.” (1)

Note: Those in a balanced state of mind never commit suicide or opt for euthanasia (assisted suicide). The only people who commit suicide are those (a) in a poor emotional state, (b) affected by dogma, or (c) suffering from a severe mental ailment. If a person attempts or actually commits suicide it means their mind is not working properly. To prevent this social ill and personal tragedy, those with a balanced mind who are near the patient have the moral duty to intervene. They must save those mental patients who are planning or trying to commit suicide or euthanasia. 

Reference
1. A Few Problems Solved - 6, The Three Causes of Sin

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Good Health: know these two mudras

These two mudras - uddayan mudra and utksepa mudra - are very important for all-round health as they serve as prevention and treatment for numerous diseases. In the Ananda Marga Yogic Treatments book, these two mudras are pervasively used. So all should know how to practice these mudras - i.e. when to inhale and when to exhale etc. Actually they are so basic, there is no need to ask any acarya etc. The instructions are printed in Caryacarya part 3 for all to see. Everyone has access to this knowledge. People should therefore take it upon themselves to acquire the foundational knowledge of basic Ananda Marga practices, like these two important mudras.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “Ud́d́ayana mudrá: Standing, place the hands above the knees and bend forward a little. Gradually breathe out, to a state of complete exhalation. Keeping the breath out, draw the abdomen and lower abdomen inward as hard as possible, to touch the spine. Maintain this position for eight seconds. Then gradually inhale fully. Practise eight times.” (1)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “Utkśepa Mudrá: This mudrá should be practised in bed immediately upon waking. While lying on the back, one should flex both the arms and legs, bringing them over the chest, and then return them immediately to the extended position. After doing this three or four times, sit up in bed and drink a glass of cold water without allowing the water to touch the teeth. After this you should expose the navel area to the air, and walk up and down in this way for some time in the open air.” (2)

References
1. Caryacarya - 3, Mudrás and Bandhas
2. Caryacarya - 3, Different Yoga Practices

== Section 3: Links ==

Prabhat Samgiita Day - 14 September

Spiritual treasure: PS

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2022/11/prema-of-bhakta.html

Intimacy of PS

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/09/intimacy-of-prabhat-samgiita.html

PS: how it all began

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/08/history-what-devotees-were-singing.html

Postings to Read

How to face controversy

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/loose-or-strict-3-more.html

Solution to flickering mind

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/04/how-to-focus-in-sadhana-2-4-more.html

About Baba's mango grove story

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/03/inner-sense-of-mango-story.html

Proper outlook: not here for long

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/06/how-ignorance-causes-depression.html

Spiritual treasure: PS + 3 more

Baba

Spiritual treasure: PS

Note: The occasion of Prabhat Samgiita Day is 14 Sep. 

Namaskar,

The concepts of tiirtha, creation theory, neo-humanism, samaj, spirituality, morality, psychic disease, vices, physico-psycho-spiritual development, casteism, racism, personal and impersonal entity, types of bhakti, revolution, hypocrisy, yama & niyama, service, sacrifice, types of relation with PP, dogma, Prout, and more are all present in the compositions of Prabhat Samgiita.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Initially, through His various discourses, Baba first unveiled the spiritual science of Ananda Marga as He described in philosophical parlance how jiivas are to move ahead and attain Parama Purusa. And then later on through the medium of poetry and song, i.e. through Prabhat Samgiita, those same spiritual ideas are colourfully portrayed: how human beings are to proceed unto Parama Purusa.

Whole AM ideology is expressed in Prabhat Samgiita

And while His Prabhat Samgiita have so many unique and charming attributions, one of the special qualities of the divine songs is that the entire Ananda Marga ideology is illustrated within Prabhat Samgiita - indirectly, in seed form.

The main difference between the two is that in His discourses Baba is using impersonal prose and philosophical language. Whereas Prabhat Samgiita reflects a very personal and intimate mode of expression where the bhakta directly communicates with Parama Purusa.

So the fundamental ideas from His discourses are all expressed in Prabhat Samgiita. And the specialty of Prabhat Samgiita is that those philosophical ideas are expressed in a very personal manner - where the bhakta has a direct link with Him. The sadhaka is expressing his innermost feelings to Parama Purusa in a most intimate setting. In Prabhat Samgiita, there is a direct line of communication with Parama Purusa whereas in Ananda Marga discourses that personal link is not present.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Thus in the earlier era, before 1982, spiritual topics and teachings on bhakti were presented in a philosophical and literary way through His discourses. That was the only mode of expressing Ananda Marga philosophy in that era.

And then, later on, when the time was ripe, those same philosophical ideas were expressed in a more intimate and personal way by having a direct link with Parama Purusa. In that sense we can say that His Ananda Marga philosophy transformed into a deeply loving practice based in bhakti. All of Ananda Maraga ideology has been specially expressed in Prabhat Samgiita, it is His His grace.


AM teachings: lyrical form much easier to memorise

While the intimate, tender expression of Prabhat Samgiita is unparalleled, there are other practical reasons why Prabhat Samgiita was composed and used as a means of putting forth Ananda Marga ideological principles.

One of the main reasons is that when ideas or words are put in lyrical form then it is much easier to recall or memorise those exact expressions. Because there is a melody line and those ideas are compactly expressed. For that reason, remembering the exact lines of a stanza of Prabhat Samgiita is much easier than remembering the exact lines of a paragraph of any discourse. So this is one other distinct advantage of Prabhat Samgiita.

The other major advantage is that the sadhaka is directly communicating with Parama Purusa.


The significance of each song

Overall then we should seek to see each and every Prabhat Samgiita on a deeper level - going beyond the literal expression. By His grace we should try to understand what are the underlying philosophical concepts that comprise the intimate and personal style of Prabhat Samgiita.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Everyone who has been blessed by Parama Purusa to enter into A'nanda Ma'rga understands deep in their heart that the divine compositions of Prabhat Samgiita are highly spiritual treasures and something very special.


His eternal call

In particular, with regards to Prabhat Samgiita #0736 (appended below), it beautifully and descriptively expresses the supreme idea that Parama Purusa is always calling His bhaktas closer and closer unto His divine lap. His omnkara is forever resounding drawing us ever nearer to Him, sweetly pulling sadhakas away from any mundane allurements.

In the song, by His divine grace that sadhaka leaves those mundane attachments behind and responds to the Supreme call of Parama Purusa. By that way the sadhaka races with deep attraction after Him. This is the central theme that is expressed in the above Prabhat Samgiita.

So just as Prabhat Samgiita #0736 expresses the concept of bhakti that Parama Purusa is always calling and attracting bhaktas towards Him, similarly in His above discourse in the realm of philosophy Baba is expressing this same notion. And not just in this discourse but numerous discourses express this same idea.

Namaskar,
in Him
Radha

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The collective name of dance, song and instrumental music is sam'giita...[these] three things which are very much in use in the objective world but which are, at the same time, immensely helpful in spiritual life as well: these three are collectively known as sam'giita." (1)

This song #0736 (appended below) is anecdotal evidence how the entire AM philosophy is illustrated in Prabhat Samgiita.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


PS #0736: Your blissful resonance makes me float

Note: Only those who sincerely practice the higher lessons of sahaja yoga meditation can understand this song in the depths of their heart.

PS Intro: This below song reflects that deeply spiritual truth how Parama Purusa is always graciously calling the jiivas towards His Infinite Self through His eternal sound of omnkara - His murali dhvani, the divine sound of Cosmic Consciousness.

"Tumi je d́ekecho ámáy, áj je ghare tháká dáy, kii jádu áche tava rág ráginii te, bujhite náhi párá jáy..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0736)

Purport:

My Parama Purusa, You have called me to come to You. It is impossible for me to remain here in my abode, wasting my time in mundane attachments and ignoring Your call. I want to respond to You. What magic is there in Your tunes and melodies. It is difficult to comprehend how wonderfully magical Your tunes and melodies are, through which You are communicating with me. You are the nucleus of charm.

Baba, the Divine Entity, in the abode of my mind, the blissful vibrations of Your bánshii resonate incessantly - ceaselessly. By Your grace, I hear Your cosmic flute always: While sleeping, in my dreams, and in my awakened state, I hear the omnkara sound. I think only about You - it is Your grace. You are residing in my heart all the time, all the 24hrs. Prabhu, I feel the pain of longing for You. To relieve myself of that angst, I want to forget You. But how can I when You are there in my heart, always.

Baba, my Parama Purusa, no matter how many octaves I know, I am unable to sing Your glory. Your greatness is beyond narration. You remain beyond all musical melodies - out of the reach of my mind. By going close to You my entire I-feeling gets suspended in samadhi. My Supreme Guide, Your rhythms, the songs of Your exquisite flute, and Your blissful resonance make me float beyond all the lokas and establish me in the supreme realm. It is Your krpa.

Baba, the Ever-Present Entity, please give me shelter at Your lotus feet...

Note for Prabhat Samgiita #0736

[1] Bánshi / Flute: Ananda Marga ideology states, “The rhythm in which the vibrational flow of the cosmic mind vibrates the annamáya kośa of individual microcosms – veins, nerves, arteries, blood, lymph, etc. – is the initial stage of the divine cosmic sound. When this sound is heard in the anamáya kośa it resembles that of a cricket. When this cosmic sound vibrates the kámamaya kośa it resembles the sound of ankle bells. In the manomaya kośa it resembles a flute; ... in atimánasa kośa, the resonance of a gong; in vijiṋánamaya kośa the buzzing of bees or the rolling of ocean waves; and in hirańmaya kośa, a prolonged oṋḿ sound. Thus the cosmic sound is expressed in various ways according to the degrees of crudity or subtlety in relation to the fundamental factors. There are various physical and psychic expressions centring around the various degrees of cosmic sound. When one’s mind is confined to a particular stratum one hears the sound peculiar to that stratum only. A person who lacks concentration of mind cannot hear any expression of the cosmic sound. In the field of spiritual practice the divine sound is expressed in a spontaneous way.” (2)


Baba's discourses express same idea

And, as we all know, using different language this same idea Baba has also expressed in countless discourses. For instance, here below is one such example.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga ideology states, "With cosmic ideation set out from the starting point of moralism and advance towards supreme realisation. Your feet may bleed, cut by the thorns scattered on the road, the sky, rent asunder by the lightning and crashing thunder of the fearful storm, may fall on your head, but proceed you must. You are a born fighter. To flee the battle in fear and hide like a corpse in the hills is ultravarious to your existential vitality. You must advance towards the Supreme Entity, your original abode, smashing all obstacles on the path. From time immemorial you have been listening to the sweetness of His divine call. Can you remain oblivious to it, engrossed in your little world created by Ma'ya'?" (3)

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Merge the propensities expressed by your indriyas into citta (mind stuff), citta into ahamtattva (doer I), ahamtattva into mahattattva (existential-I feeling), mahattattva into jiiva'tma' (unit consciousness) and jiiva'tma' into Parama'tma' (Universal Consciousness). That will be your Supreme fulfillment, the state beyond which there remains nothing to be attained." (4)


Another example from a discourse

Here is another example of how in His discourses Baba uses the medium of philosophical writings to explain how Parama Purusa graces the bhakta by calling him closer and still more close.

Ananda Marga ideology states, "When the kun'd'alinii reaches the navel cakra, or man'ipura cakra, that is called vraja bha'va in Vaes'n'ava Tantra. And when it moves from the navel cakra to the trikut'i, or a'jina' cakra, that is known as gopii bha'va. And when it rises past the a'jina' cakra, that is known as advaya bha'va or Ra'dha' bha'va. Thus there are these three stages.During this process, one will hear the eternal sound of pran'ava [the onm sound] in the vast maha'ka'sha [void] in different ways, according to the different levels which the mind has reached. Sometimes one first hears the sound of rumbling clouds, sometimes ankle bells, sometimes the roar of the sea. When after hearing different sounds in this way the mind reaches the trikut'i, one hears the sweet and harmonious sound of the flute. These are various expressions of the pran'ava sound. The pran'ava sound is heard as the trikut'i or a'jina' cakra is crossed, but then when the mind merges with ...Paramashiva there is no sound, the silence itself is the sound.  There is no expression. These are some of the secrets of sa'dhana'." (5)

By reading the above passage one can easily grasp how the essence of Baba's above discourse is also uniquely expressed in His Prabhat Samgiita #736. Once again showing that AM ideology is neatly illustrated in Prabhat Samgiita.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 3, Song, Dance and Instrumental Music
2. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 6, The Expansion of the Microcosm
3. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 6, The Expansion of the Microcosm
4. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 6, The Expansion of the Microcosm
5. Discourses on Krsna & the Giita, Krśńa Unparalleled

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Farming in primitive age

This is an English summary of the original Bangla discourse - Ananda Vacanamrtam - 18 (B) ‘80, chapter 11,:

In the primitive age people were not aware how to cultivate the land. Still in present day India there are many tribes who follow those primitive ways. In that pre-historic era they used to burn the forest as a means of preparing the ground for planting. And when those ashes were mixed with the soil then the soil would become more fertile. Afterwards, using pointed stones or some sharp wooden pieces, those primitive people would then scrape the top layer of topsoil and spread the seeds.

After the rains came the seeds would grow and the crops would come. Usually after 3 - 4 years of continuous cultivation, the fertility of the land would decrease. Then those tribes of the prehistoric era would leave that place and go to another part of that forest. And in a similar way they would burn that section of the forest and re-start their process of preparing the land. This type of cultivation is called "jum-cha's'a". When the age of jum-cha's'a finished then the age of the plough came and then people used to cultivate using the plough. 

(English summary of Ananda Vacanamrtam - 18 (Bangla) ‘80, chapter 11, MGD, 30 March 80 Kolkata, History of Yajina - 7, p.126)

Note: Here above Baba is revealing the historical facts about how primitive tribes in the jungles used to live thousands of years ago. It was only after the mountain age that tribes started agricultural cultivation. Actually they were under pressure to do something because they had already killed most of the animal livestock of the jungle. So up to that time they were living in the mountains and hunting for their basic needs. But when there was a shortage of animals to eat, they came down to the plains area and started cultivating the land in the aforesaid manner. In that early era, they could not even invent a single simple tool. That is why they were scratching the land with sticks and pointed stones. Those days people also were moving naked and living in the trees making nest-type of houses. Animal skins were only used as the clothes in the winter season.

Reference
1. Summary of Ananda Vacanamrtam - 18 (B) ‘80, chapter 11, MGD, 30 March 80 Kolkata, History of Yajina - 7, p.12

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Way to honour expired purodhas

Here is an English summary of Baba’s original Hindi teaching: 

Suppose, in the past, your forefathers made some mistakes. Should we then think, "Our ancestors did this, so how can we not do this as well?" This type of mentality is dogmatic. Now, "Since our forefathers have made these errors, so we will also do those same wrongs," what type of argument is this? If our forefathers have done wrong then we should also commit those same mistakes?

If you have real 'shraddha' (reverence) for your forefathers then the errors done by them must be corrected immediately. When people realize any error, should it not be corrected? So, as soon as the wrongs done by the forefathers are rectified, the more shraddha is bestowed upon them. The only way to pay shraddha (homage) to one’s forefathers is to rectify their errors. In so doing, we pay their debt; we pay the "pitra rin". Is this not real shraddha?

Therefore the mentality,  "As these acts have been done by my forefathers or the people of past, so we will also do these things",  is termed as dogma.

Dogma: "पूर्वज जो किए थे हम भी करते रहेंगे”

Ananda Marga ideology states, "भावजड़ता | …...बङ्गला में कहेंगे भावजड़ता |" (MGD 1 Jan 1984 Ananda Nagar)

Note: Our ancestors who invented and inculcated the mahaprayan program did wrong. Those ancestors committed sin by inserting the dogmatic mahaprayan divas appendix into Caryacarya part 1. Per Sadguru's above teaching, it is our duty to correct the wrongs committed by purodha board members from that era. They made a horrific blunder and the only way to pay respect to such avadhutas is to rectify their wrongdoing by eradicating the mahaprayan divas program and removing it from Caryacarya - 1. That will be true service to those dogmatic purodha ancestors.

Discard harmful traditions 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Pseudo-spirituality cannot help us in our free thinking either, for our thinking is badly affected by dogma. When a human being sits alone and thinks, if the person thinks for the collective interest, then such thoughts are proper; but usually people do not think in this way. Usually they lament over the worn-out skeletons of the past. “This was done by, this was imposed by, our forefathers – when our forefathers have said this, why should I break with the old traditions? It was written in this way in the scriptures; and moreover if I follow these old conventions and traditions, what is the harm?” These types of dogmatic and dogma-ic thoughts will naturally stifle the free flow of human thought. And that is why whenever there is dogma, human thinking cannot be free; and for want of, for paucity of, free thinking, there cannot be any proper psycho-spiritual progress either. So here what we want is perfect spirituality and not pseudo-spirituality. Pseudo-spirituality cannot promote the cause of human welfare; the seed of welfare does not lie there. The seed of welfare cannot exist where the seed of dogma exists.” (1)

References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 5, Pseudo-Spirituality and Neohumanism

== Section 3: Links ==

Prabhat Samgiita Day - 14 September

Intimacy of PS

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/09/intimacy-of-prabhat-samgiita.html

PS: how it all began

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/08/history-what-devotees-were-singing.html

Postings to Read

How to face controversy

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/02/loose-or-strict-3-more.html

Solution to flickering mind

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/04/how-to-focus-in-sadhana-2-4-more.html

About Baba's mango grove story

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/03/inner-sense-of-mango-story.html

Proper outlook: not here for long

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/06/how-ignorance-causes-depression.html