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Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Celebrating AP: food & finances + 3 more

Baba
Celebrating AP: food & finances

Namaskar,

Here we examine some of the key components (finances, food etc) regarding our upcoming Ananda Purnima gathering. High quality meals should be made available to any and all who attend. The most practical and rational way to do this is for margiis to contribute to this program according to their liking and means.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Sliding scale

Basically, donations should be requested from all the margiis – on a sliding scale. According to their capacity margii attendees can contribute. So there should not be a certain fixed fee for every participant. Rather, donations should be based on one’s financial condition. Those with more money can offer larger donations and those with financial constraints can give smaller amounts. So everyone should contribute something and if a person has the feeling and ability to give a bigger financial donation, that is welcomed. Along these lines, it is okay to let wealthier margiis give more, if they wish.


Donation box

However, the amount donated should not be revealed publicly. That would be insensitive and humiliating for those donating smaller amounts. One idea is to set up a special donation box; then people can offer even the smallest of donations and still feel comfortable. More about this has been appended below.

May we always remember that it is the feeling behind the giving that is most important, not the amount. All along, we have to find the right balance. That is why there should be a sliding scale, with no stated minimum amount. The main idea is that the food at programs like Ananda Purnima should be accessible to all. By and by, money should not hinder anyone’s participation.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Opportunity to create new margiis

Everyone should be encouraged to participate and bring their entire family, as well as their close, non-margii friends who are ready to participate. That means those non-margiis are ready and eager to join the Marga flow for a day of celebration - i.e. sing and dance kiirtan, sit quietly during sadhana, and follow a sattvika diet etc. That type of person is welcome to join. If however the individual is not ready and just wants to go outside and smoke during sadhana time then it is useless to bring that type of person. You know maximum positive attendance will make for a joyous celebration and it will give us the opportunity to create new margiis.


Pomp & show

In some bhuktis, someone steps forward with great enthusiasm to cover the cost of the entire program. But this should only be accepted when the person has sincere feeling for Sadguru Baba and the overall spirit of the celebration. That means their name should not be announced as being a big donor and there should not be a banner or signs / leaflets indicating that Mr. So-and-So sponsored the feast etc. Only the organising committee should be aware about the size of the donation. This is not for public knowledge or anyone’s personal name and fame. The central idea is that the donor should feel that they are feeding Parama Purusa. If any donation is offered out of pomp or show, then such monies should be politely rejected.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “If a person wants to feed you out of genuine intimacy, you should take that food happily, even if it is just grains and vegetables. But if someone invites you only to make a show to people, never accept his/her food.” (1)


Deception in Narayana seva

Special food should be made available for all attendees. There will be one kitchen: The same type of food for all, which is of top quality, yet very simple and sentient. So in Narayana seva - feeding of financially poor people  - the food must be planned beforehand. The same quality of food prepared with the kind intention should be prepared for all: Top Dadas, attending margiis, local non-margiis, and beggars etc. All should be served the same food.

Unfortunately, there are a few units that follow sinful style. Instead they pursue one of the following scenarios:

(a) They only perform Narayana seva (feeding of the poor) if there are leftovers. They do not specifically plan for there to be ample food for all. Only if some food was not prepared properly (burnt or not tasty), or if not all the food was eaten, only then do they have food to offer as Narayana seva.

(b) They designate rejected, lower-grade food as Narayana seva.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

(c) They prepare tasty, sweet, sumptuous food for dadas and margiis, and then serve plain veggies and potatoes with a little salt as Narayana seva. Here it should be noted that sometimes those impoverished people are insulted seeing that they are given second grade food. So in protest they throw stones, quarrel, refuse to eat, and return back home - hungry & thirsty.

(d) All of these types of situations are very bad and go contrary to the spirit of Narayana seva. Those who conduct themselves in the aforesaid ways do not feel that they are serving Narayana. They do not ideate that they are feeding Parama Purusa. That is why they misbehave in the above described manner. If they had a true feeling about Narayana seva then they would not act like that. So logically everyone should be convinced beforehand. Then the aforesaid problem(s) will not occur.

When doing Narayana seva, proper planning and a proper outlook are needed. An ample amount of food should be catered to all, regardless of their social standing. Everyone should be offered the same delicious food, whether they be a Wt or a beggar. There is no high or low, or first class and second class. The same food should be served to all - seeing all as part of our cosmic, universal brotherhood. Because Parama Purusa comes in the form of a beggar to eat.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba story: feeding Narayana

Narayana seva organisers shooed them away and gave nothing to eat...

Baba would often tell that He arrived on-site for Narayana seva at xyz AM unit but instead of being fed a proper meal, He was was not even allowed on the premises. Rather He sat and stood outside for hours, but was never allowed in nor was He given anything to eat. And in the end when He thought He might be given something, the organisers shooed away any and all beggars who were hanging around outside the campus.

Baba pointed out those units that behaved in this insulting and degrading manner. Hearing this, all were shocked and understood that Baba had come in the form of a beggar.

at His lotus feet,
Ma’la’

More about donation box

Concern: Some active margiis think that every donation amount should be accounted for and provided with receipts so that "Birthday committee" verify it. They want that there should not be any unaccounted money. That is the reason some do not want to keep a "Donation Box".
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Reply: Having a donation box does not mean that this is unaccounted for money. A margii panel or the bhukti / birthday committee could be in charge of counting the donation box during and after the event, and allocating how that money should be used. A donation box does not by definition mean that it is going straight into Dada's pocket or black hole.

The benefit of having a donation box is that then maximum margiis will be inspired to give. Suppose someone can only donate RS10. In that case he may feel shy and self-conscious, and think that others may label him as a "freeloader". Beleaguered by such thoughts he may not attend, and instead choose to remain away to save him from any embarrassment and humiliation about his small donation. Whereas he might freely give that amount in a donation box. So the donation box enables and empowers people to give whatever amount they can afford to offer.

By giving a donation and enlisting that publicly is India's old dogma where in the temple every brick is tainted by the names of donors. Ananda Marga philosophy does not appreciate this. One should not have the feeling that, "I donated xyz amount." If one thinks like that their donation will vanish. Their punya of giving will be lost in the face of some sort of egotistical or transactional donation where a person gives in order to see their name in lights. This destroys the service motive. Actually, naming the donors or citing their amount creates an inferiority complex in some and a superiority complex in the minds of others. To avoid this problem, the use of a donation box is very appropriate.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Forgive & forget

Universal festivals like Ananda Purnima are also a time for forgetting about past differences and starting new relations. They are a time for a fresh new start where we bury old issues, forgive and forget, sit together, and invite a clean, new beginning. Baba guides us that in personal life it is best to forgive others wholeheartedly - so long as the guilty party has fully rectified themselves. If the person has not rectified themselves then they should not be forgiven.

Ananda Marga ideology states, “In individual life you can extend maximum forgiveness – rather, the more forgiveness, the better….in individual life, however much one might harm you, you may forgive that person to the greatest extent possible.” (2)

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “Do not forgive till his/her nature is reformed. Immediate forgiveness is a special weakness of mind. It results in worse harm to society.” (3)

So in individual life there is a stipulation - one should be ever-ready to extend maximum forgiveness upon seeing that the person has fully rectified their wrongful ways. Matters of ideology or collective welfare are completely different. In that case, we have no right to forgive anyone - not under any circumstance.

Ananda Marga ideology states, “In collective life one has no right to forgive anyone...Suppose you are an inhabitant of India. If someone harms the collective life of India, you must not forgive them. Likewise, as you belong to the entire human race, you must not forgive anyone who harms humanity.” (4)

So while we cannot extend forgiveness to those who have harmed the collective, on personal affairs forgiving others according to Guru’s aforementioned system is an ideal course of action; and what better time to do this than on the blissful occasion of Ananda Purnima.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

References
1. Caryacarya - 2, Society, Point #37
2. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - 11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle
3. Caryacarya part 2, Society, Point #6
4. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - 11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle


== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

Controller of everything

Note: Only those bhaktas who feel a spiritual vibration in their heart can understand this song in the depths of their core.

"A'ma'r a'sa' a'ma'r ja'oya' toma'r kheya'l-kushii priyo..." (Prabhat Samgiita #2026)

Purport:

Baba, my taking birth and leaving, my coming and going, is depending on Your wish. My life, death is the way, but You are ever-present, infinite, and vast - bigger than the grandest of oceans, and I am just one tiny drop. There is no comparison between You and me. 

My Parama Purusa, for me, day and night, all these 24 hours are a big thing; but for You even billions of years is just one minuscule segment of time. For me one giant ocean is very vast; but for You it is even smaller than a single drop of water - or even less than that. That which is so insurmountable for me is absolutely ordinary for You. Because You are the Controller of everything; this entire creation lies within You.

Baba, I have come here due to the flow of Your divine source. And with the attraction of Your incredible grace I am floating on and on in this creation. For me, Your love and Your mercy are everything. Without that my existence has no value.  

Baba, there is no comparison between You and me. You are vast and I am meagre and I am completely depending on Your krpa... 

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Naming 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 ==

Creating blissful universal family

Prout philosophy states, “Ánanda Parivára or establishing a universal spiritual family involves not only a World Government but also a Universal Government. More correctly it is a universal social order. The question is, how can such a Parivára be established? This will certainly come through revolution which may be democratic or undemocratic; or it may be a pyramidical, palace or nuclear revolution. Among all the types of revolution, nuclear revolution is the best. The nucleus of creation is Cosmic Consciousness. It is also the goal of revolutionaries, and whatever they do by way of revolution with this goal in mind leads them to the culminating point of their life’s march. Revolution must have an ideological goal. In essence, revolution means controlling all the three nuclei of the universe – physical, psychic and spiritual. It is possible to make people conscious of Proutistic ideas in a democracy. This consciousness will have a repercussion in elections. Even before elections are held this consciousness may launch a revolution to change the social order.” (1)

Note: To establish a blissful universal family:
(a) For this sadvipras should be created:
(b) Sadvipras will bring revolution:
(c) There are various types of revolution:
(d) Nuclear revolution is ideal.

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 15, Talks on Prout


== Section: Important Teaching ==

First quality of a dharmika

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "The greatest quality of a person at a meeting or debate is the capacity to convince others. The highest quality in the battlefield is 'yudhi vikramam', or valor in the battle. While in danger, one's great quality is patience." (1)

When in danger, some become paranoid and some remain patient and calm. Depending upon one’s reaction, a person displays their weakness or their greatness. When danger arrives if one becomes paranoid or loses their wits, they will not be able to solve the problem. Rather they are liability. In that case, they are not a dharmika because they are missing the first point of dharma - i.e. dhrti  (patience). In contrast, if one's rational brain is keen and sharp when in grave danger, and that person is able to properly evaluate the situation and take the right course of action, it means that individual is a dharmika.

Here the point is not that if someone else's house burns down and you keep calm, then you are a dharmika. That is not the idea. Rather, the objective is to keep your rational mind functioning when your own house is burning down. If you can manage to keep your own mind balanced in a dangerous situation, you can resolve that issue in the best way according to circumstances. That is the quality of a true dharmika.

Normally it is difficult to gauge who is a dharmika and who is not. Everybody will try and claim that they are a great dharmika. If any problem comes that is the time to measure if one is a dharmika or not. If one becomes paranoid at the time of misery then that person is not a dharmika. And if they are calmly trying to resolve the issue then that person is a dharmika.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 4, The Ten Characteristics of a Dhármika


== Section 3: Links ==

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Sunday, April 19, 2026

Including all in AP celebrations + 3 more

Baba

Including all in AP celebrations

* The grand festival of Ananda Purnima is on Friday, 01 May 2026.

Namaskar,

In this following letter, I am going to enlist some new things how we are going to arrange and organise our Ananda Marga Ananda Purnima festival this year. A few fresh things have been included in our agenda.

Programmes for elders

Here Baba guides us how the elderly should also get scope to participate in special ways as well.

   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 grows 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.” (1)

Ananda Purnima is also an opportunity for artists to display their talents.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Take pains to see that all join in the Utsava. Give full opportunity to all the artists to make a display of their talents in art. Remember that taking food together is a special feature in a Utsava, without which half of the pleasure of a Utsava is marred.” (2)

Exhibition

Around the globe, and in our larger units especially, various exhibitions can be created that encapsulate a wide sampling of Baba’s teachings and programs. In this way, the theoretical side of Ananda Marga ideology and its practical expression can be highlighted. There could be a good news presentation of the wide array of Ananda Marga service projects and socially uplifting programs; plus via story, song, dance, and drama there should be joyous performances that highlight the history and development of Ananda Marga.In addition, there could be the special showing of Baba’s video and other renewing activities like a tree planting, musical performance, and other cultural activities.

Organising an Ananda Mela (fair of bliss)

A grand Ananda Mela can also be formed in selected places. This can feature local sentient shops, as well as cultural programs, sports and festivities, art, music, a children’s theatre and poetry competitions. Such a gathering could include non-margiis and margiis alike. That will build community relations and involve everyone. It would bring people together in a sweet way and the environment could be nicely maintained by having all the events monitored by margiis. Yet, at the same time, allow non-margiis to participate fully and be active up to certain levels.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Verily, this is an occasion for one and all and could include multi-day or even multi-week camps for honouring and celebrating this most glorified event of Ananda Purnima. Overall, such types of programs would draw in all the various sections of society and could occur over a month-long period, perhaps 2-weeks before through 2-weeks after Ananda Purnima - as some do in India with the Ram Liila*. Our Ananda Purnima should take on that type of significance and celebration, focused exclusively on Baba, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji.

   * Ram Liila: For those who are not aware, the Ram Liila is an annual theatre drama depicting the glory, greatness, and myth of Ram staged in the evening for several weeks. This theatre drama highlights the life of Ram for the public to see, learn and enjoy.

   In a similar manner, we should produce a theatre reenactment of all the great, dharmic events. This should include His younger years, the formation of Ananda Marga, the spread of devotion, the jail period, Emergency, how the margiis faced so many problems, how the communists were destroyed, the vast array of AM service projects, spiritual life, etc. All the good and bad times should be depicted for everyone to know.

Artful presentation of Baba’s liila, cartoons, paintings, & songs

The above programs will serve as a great complement to the numerous other festive ways of celebrating the grand occasion of Ananda Purnima. Some of those activities include: Poetry readings, debates, prize distribution, collective bath, collective food, narayan seva, clothing distribution, collective sadhana, medical camps, food distribution in nursing and convalescent homes, collective social service, singing and dancing of Prabhat Samgiita, the exchange of gifts, sports and games, display of Baba’s diorama, artful presentation of Baba’s liila, cartoons and paintings of how Baba has graced bhaktas, theatrical depictions of how negative forces could not diminish the glory of Baba and Ananda Marga.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Indeed, this is a time when everyone – young and old, wealthy and poor, literate and illiterate, etc – can come together and rejoice in the sweet celebrations of Baba’s divine advent. The festival of Ananda Purnima should be given utmost importance as it is the most festive day of the year.

Special Prabhat Samgiita programs

As everyone may remember, Baba has beautifully given the system of making extended Prabhat Samgiita programs whereby gathered margiis sing blissful and spiritual songs. Just like we often have our long akhanda kiirtan programs of 3, 6, or 12 hours – in the same way these programs of Prabhat Samgiita can also take place.

Many may recall how Baba used to sit on the dais and call for the rendering of Prabhat Samgiita at the grand celebration of our Ananda Purnima social function. And it would proceed step-by-step where first one purport was read out by a selected margii and then the singing of that same song would begin and small young children of 8 or 9 years of age would dance to that song. As soon as one song was completed then another would begin with the reading of the purport followed by the singing and dance performance of that very song. And in this grand fashion several songs were linked together – all the while maintaining a nicely formatted sequence where the first song celebrated Baba’s holy advent and then the next song depicts His divine blessings etc. By that way several songs are linked together creating one panoramic flow of bhakti.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Social service, CSS, Narayan seva, painca seva

In addition, during Ananda Purnima all the trades and departments of AMPS partake in their respective social service programs. VSS optees do CSS, i.e collective social service such as public cleaning or repair work or other physical works for the security, safety, and welfare of the society etc. Side by side, AMURT can operate their free medical clinics. Financial donations for further social service work should be encouraged. And SDM optees can arrange for a maximum number of initiations. In this way, Ananda Purnima is a day for doing all types of social service because we Ananda Margiis are declassed and perform all the sevas.

at His lotus feet,
Surta’tma’

Links to previously posted letters on this series have been appended below. 

References
1. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva)
2. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva)


*        *        *

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 ==

Crooks needed for Your magnificence

Note: If you are at the dinner table talking to your close companion who is seated next to you and looking directly at you, already you have their full attention. In that case, you need not address them by saying “O”. If you say “O” they may get irritated. So prefacing an appellation for God with “O’” such as in O’ Lord is not appropriate in our Ananda Marga. Saying “O’ Lord” signifies that that Divine Entity is far away - i.e. in the so-called 7th sky or heaven - and that one must cry out to reach them. And that goes against the spirit of bhakti. 

In our Ananda Marga, we know that Parama Purusa is watching us always. He is never far - always He resides in the heart witnessing all we think, do, and say. Hence there is no need to call out to Him using the phrases, “O’ God”, “O’ Lord etc.” One may simply address Him in a natural manner without the “O” preface and He will certainly listen to your call. But in melancholic songs, using the address O’ God, O’ Lord etc is appropriate.

"Káhákeo pápii bheve, bhay peyo ná ogo prabhu, 
pápii jadi ná thákito, mahimá kii pete kabhu..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0695)

Purport:

Prabhu, please don't be “afraid” knowing that someone is a sinner, a mahapatakii, or an evil person. I request You not to keep Your distance or have any aversion towards them. If there were no nefarious people, then how could You ever gain so much glory. All-pervading Entity, Your fame grows by saving them from their sin and negative samskaras. My Adored One, You steal away sin, and that is why Your name is Hari. If there were no wrongdoers and there was no sin for You to steal, then no one would call You Hari. That name - Hari - would be meaningless. That is why the presence of crooks is needed for Your magnificence. 

Baba, of the universe, do You think that only those always calling You with tearful eyes and folded hands are Your bhaktas. Or that only those strict in Sixteen Points, kiirtan, fasting, asanas, pranayama, bhajan, and dhyana sadhana etc are Your bhaktas? No, they are not Your only bhaktas; felons are also Your bhaktas. Miscreants also cry for Your help and with full surrender want Your mercy, so please do not forget them. 

Parama Purusa, the hearts and minds of those who are infamous transgressors are also full of bhakti. The only reason they are papiis (sinners) is because they don't want to become light by giving their burden of sin to You. Because of their exceptional prema towards You, they are unwilling to give the misery of their bad actions unto You. Rather they keep those reactions for themselves to endure. Divine Entity, Baba, such evildoers love you so much. They prefer to undergo the suffering of their negative samskaras on their own. Because of their considerable affection for You, they do not want to burden You with their sins. That is why they are known as offenders.

Baba, by seeing that someone is a scoundrel, please do not keep Your distance...


== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Sleep & nerve cells

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, “Yes, we were discussing sleep. After labouring beyond a certain point in the wakeful state, one's nerve fibres become exhausted and one feels the need to rest. In the wakeful state, as the nerve cells are constantly performing the functions of thinking and recollecting, they become fatigued. Thus for psychic and physical health, one needs to sleep – the exhausted nerve cells and fibres will fall into sleep of their own accord. The nerve cells of those who do physical labour become extremely exhausted, and that is why the moment they go to bed they immediately fall asleep.” (1)

Reference
1. Namah Shiváya Shántáya: Disc: 16


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Example of protozoic & metazoic mind

   Ananda Marga ideology states, “The protozoic minds are guided by instinct only. The protozoic mind is citta only, with no development of ahaḿ[tattva] or mahattattva. Ingesting food, supporting offspring – this is all done instinctively, according to their svabháva [spontaneously], the reasons being quite unknown to those creatures. The earthworm does not know that it is an earthworm. It moves instinctively, spontaneously, according to its undeveloped mind. The protozoic minds and the protozoic microcosm can be said to be the physical mind. A protozoic creature has only physical mind. The collection of protozoic minds in the human can be said to be the physical mind of the human, known as the [kámamaya kośa]. It is guided by instinct, there is no discrimination.”
   “But the metazoic mind moves with some intellect, or discrimination, as there has been some development of intellect in it. Hence the metazoic mind has control over the protozoic mind. The more the metazoic mind is developed in a creature, the more developed the creature is; that is, a metazoic structure will be more complicated. And where this complication has increased considerably, that physical structure is the human physical structure.” (1)

Note: Living cells act according to instinct because of their protozoic mind. There are many organs in the human body such as the kidneys and the liver. These organs have have a more developed mind, i.e. metazoic mind. So long as the kidneys and liver are in a greater structure like an animal or a human they will do their job. That is why doctors are able to perform kidney and liver transplants from one human body to another. So metazoic mind controls protozoic mind. And, in the human structure, both protozoic and metazoic mind comes under the domain of the unit human mind.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23, Knowledge and Progress


== Section 4: Links ==


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Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Preparing for Ananda Purnima 2026 + 4 more

Baba

Preparing for Ananda Purnima 2026

Namaskar,

Sadguru Baba’s holy advent is such an auspicious occasion that there is no aspect of life that has not been purified and made pristine by His holy arrival. Each and every aspect of creation is ensconced in bliss by His august presence.

In that wholesome spirit, our Ananda Purnima celebrations should be of an equal breadth, size, and stature. Every sphere of life should be touched by our Ananda Purnima ceremonies and festivities. This year, Ananda Purnima is on Friday, 1 May 2026. As usual, every unit may prepare accordingly for the best possible celebration.

Here below are guidelines based on Baba's divine teachings for how we can best maximize the festivities of the auspicious occasion of Ananda Purnima.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Celebrations in every local unit: invite non-margiis

Unlike centralised events like DMS etc, the occasion of Ananda Purnima is meant to be joyfully celebrated in each and every unit. It is a local function for one and all. Every unit is highly encouraged to host their own Ananda Purnima celebration. And, many ideal units do everything – more than a full-day program. Margiis and sympathizers often arrive the evening before to participate in an all-night kiirtan program (more about this below), followed by opening ceremonies and presentations. This continues into the day of Ananda Purnima itself with a special paincajanya and day-long celebrations including a varied array of activities and programs, culminating and concluding late that evening. So at the Ananda Purnima gatherings, the first iishvara pranidhana practice is done before breakfast, and the second iishvara pranidhana is done before the midday feast, and then there may be more as festivities extend into the evening etc.

Here the main point is that, blissful Ananda Purnima programs should take place locally in each and every unit. This is Baba’s prescribed system. As Ananda Margiis, we should encourage our entire family to attend the Ananda Purnima celebrations. Just as we are aiming to bring all of humanity under the banner of Ananda Marga, the same we should do with our own laokik family. About this all should be vigilant, otherwise that undermines the whole affair. All family members should be eager to attend.

The magnificent characteristic of all our Ananda Marga social gatherings is that all are welcomed - irrespective of age, colour, race, profession, educational standard, etc. All types from all places are invited. Indeed everyone comes together for sadhana, games, feasting, and other celebratory activities. By this way one social flow is formed thereby making way for a healthy, unified human society.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “Ánanda Púrńimá: Collective bath with snána mantra, twice collective Iishvara Prańidhána and Varńárghyadána, collective noon and night meals, merry celebrations, spiritual conferences, annual meetings of workers, children’s sports, and procession with táńd́ava dance. " (1)

Of course, this is the best time to invite non-margii relatives, neighbours, colleagues, and others so they will come to know about the teachings of Ananda Marga. By this way they may become sincere margiis in the future.

Pada kiirtan, pala kiirtana, avarta kiirtan

For the occasion of Ananda Purnima, various types of kiirtan programs can be organised: pada kiirtan, pala kiirtana, avarta kiirtan, akhanda kiirtan, nagar kiirtan etc.

As you may know, nagar kiirtan, the singing and dancing of Baba Nam Kevalam through the streets and parks etc, should be done just before sunrise as it creates a very sentient vibration at that hour. If done two hours after sunrise, then everybody is busy in the streets doing all kinds of mundane activities and people will not pay attention. Whereas in the pre-dawn and dawn hours, most everyone is still in their home and many are still sleeping. And if they awaken to kiirtan then their whole day will be blissful. They may not understand why they are feeling blissful but they will be benefited. In nagar kiirtan, the chanting should be soothing, not ear-piercing. As far as possible, this should be done with loudspeakers, bearing in mind the local customs and legal code. What is acceptable in India, however, may not be allowed elsewhere. The overall spirit is for a maximum number of people to hear the holy siddha mantra: Baba Nam Kevalam.

The sound should be natural with the overall spirit being to please Baba by singing and sharing this spiritual chant with others. Baba guides us that by this way there will be tremendous benefit.
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After each and every kiirtan program, there should be special prasad. Remember, Ananda Purnima is a grand festival for one and all - everyone: Some are involved deeply in spiritual sadhana, while some, such as the children, are interested in special treats like prasad. By this way, there will be something for everyone. All will think of it as a delightful and joyous celebration.

The celebrations for the auspicious gathering of Ananda Purnina should begin the evening before. So this year the actual day of Ananda Purnima is Thursday, 23 May 2024. That means maximum attendees should arrive on Thursday around sunset, and from Thursday evening to Friday morning an all-night kiirtana program should be arranged. Attendees should have designated time slots through the night to sing kiirtan - people will go turn by turn and keep the kiirtana going the entire night. That will create a strong vibration in the subconscious mind and generate a deep flow of bhakti. That will be the ideal lead-in to the Ananda Purnima celebrations.

Collective bath essential 

An essential component of Ananda Purnima is collective bathing that is done in a discreet, gender-separated manner. And It is possible to do collective bath everywhere. For instance, in Tiljala (Kolkata), in 1982 a large bathroom was made for collective bath. In one bathroom there were around 50 faucets connected so at least 200 people at a time could take bath there. So for collective bath, lakes are not compulsory. In every jagriti there should be such arrangements. Collective bath is very important; we cannot avoid this practice because it brings unity. 

There may be rental places and tent houses that may supply water on a short-term basis for a fee. Just like how for the DMC pandal they would hire contractors, similarly there are contractors that provide water for large collective gatherings. There are so many creative ways to arrange and finalize this work in cities. It is not compulsory to have lakes, ponds, and rivers for collective bath.  Collective bath (i.e. gender-separated) is integral and cannot be avoided as it is an essential point for creating unity. 
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Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Milita snána [collective bathing] and dharmacakra [collective meditation] provide grounds for common social functions in the physical, psychic and spiritual fields. Common participation in such functions is a very great unifying force. The participants in such functions will have no intolerance for each other, and will instead get more united. Such functions are, therefore, a great unifying force.” (2)

Firecrackers: Ignorance pollutes

Many units have stopped using firecrackers during our Ananda Marga festival celebrations. Baba’s expressed guideline is that firecrackers are a waste of money, create huge pollution, and invite serious injuries. Firecrackers are carcinogenic, dangerous, and wasteful on many levels. They should not be used at our programs. Instead the funds used for purchasing firecrackers should be directed toward enhancing our narayan seva and relief work that very day.

Think in this way: Suppose someone was depressed and they purchased poison to commit suicide. Yet then they came to the understanding that committing suicide is bad. Then they should not think that, "Since I spent money, how can I throw this poison away. I should use it anyway." Rather they should be happy and rid of this poison thinking that, "I saved my life." In the same way, firecrackers should be disposed of and put in the garbage bin according to the local codes.

Certainly, we all know that the holy occasion of A’nanda Pu’rn’ima’ signifies the day of advent of Taraka Brahma as Mahasambhuti Baba. And that on this wonderful and blissful occasion there is a morning and evening dharmacakra, collective bath, all-round merrymaking, and a sentient feast etc.
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Yet there are also other special components to the celebration of Ananda Pu’rn’ima which Baba has outlined. Some of these are listed and described below.


Events & new clothes to all family members

Here below are a few more of Baba’s many recommendations and guidelines for how to make the occasion of Ananda Purnima an even more memorable, joyful, and charming gathering for one and all.

(A) On the grand festival time of Ananda Purnima, all types of age groups should have their own programs that are appealing to them. Certainly there will be one central place for the entire gathering, yet at the same time specialised plans and programs for the various age divisions should be organised.

For the younger children there should be games and sports and / or a drama production etc.

For adolescents and teenagers there should be competitions in the various realms from kaoshikii and tandava to music, art, and literature. And their day should also include sporting events etc.

And likewise for adults, there should be a range of activities and programs from the spiritual singing of kiirtan to service projects, plus spiritual talks, dance competitions, and general socialising.
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(B) In addition, on Ananda Purnima the heads of households can utilise this as the time to arrange new clothes for all family members. Plus there should be toys for the children and the sharing of sweet treats. By this way one and all will know that something great is happening and that Ananda Purnima is a grand event.

(C) Ananda Purnima can also be made special by offering moderate gifts and presents or cards etc to those around you as a showing of love and affection.

Conclusion: spirit of utsava

   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 bhaktas 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...” (3)

at His lotus feet,
Anandaliina’

References
1. Caryacarya – 1, Social Functions and Festivals
2. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Social Psychology
3. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva)


*        *        *

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 ==

Your divine rhythm

“Janma dine ei shubha kśańe, práń bhará apár ánande…” (Prabhat Samgiita #0135)

Purport:

Baba, on this auspicious holy occasion of Your birthday, Ananda Purnima, by Your divine grace my heart is overflowing with infinite bliss. My mind is full of love. It sways in new colours and aromas; Your divine advent vibrates each and every pore and cell of this entire universe. With Your holy arrival, the entire atmosphere has become completely charged with spiritual bliss.

Baba, everyone is completely charmed by Your divine attraction; all are ensconced in spiritual ecstasy and lost in jubilation; the entire population is floating in cosmic bliss. By Your grace, my heart is drenched and overflowing by Your exquisite presence; I am overjoyed in getting You. All are dancing in Your divine rhythm.

Parama Purusa, Your supreme presence has transformed every person. You have graciously come, and with Your love You are keeping us all close to You. You have granted us shelter in You. Baba, You are the effulgence of light; You are in the bliss of all.

Baba, on this auspicious day, my only request is that You please remain eternally in my heart. I offer everything at Your altar…


== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Key to success #2

Namaskar,

Every human being wants to be successful. Who does not want to be successful? Whether in the realm of art, law, medicine, schooling, business, literature, science, or architecture - or any other field or endeavor - everyone wants to be successful. Knowing how to be successful then is an important recipe.

Baba has graciously given us His special guidelines wherein He explains how the 'Seven Secrets of Success' apply not just to spiritual life, but to worldly life as well. Here we examine the first secret of success: vishvása.

Vishvása: In spiritual life this means having firm determination for one's Goal. Yet Baba guides us that in worldly life this is also needed. If before studying for an exam, a student thinks that, "I will never be able to pass", then they are doomed. Certainly they will not be able to get success. Similarly, if an adult walks into a job interview thinking that, "I will not be able to get this job - it is beyond my qualifications", then they will have little or no chance of getting that job. So vishvása in worldly life is a big point. It refers to having confidence and a positive outlook before pursuing any endeavour.

Baba has blessed us all with great teachings which lead us to success, including how to utilize the Seven Secrets of Success in our worldly endeavours. So we should pay heed to this doctrine not just in spiritual life but in all our worldly dealings as well.

Baba says, "You, boys and girls, should remember the points and do accordingly. It will help you in your all-around success." (Ananda Vacanamrtam - 14, Seven Secrets)

Namaskar,
Bhakti Bhusana


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Do not display photo: AM marriages

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "The pratiika [emblem of Ananda Marga] should be placed in an elevated place in the marriage hall." (1)

In His above teaching, Baba gives clear reference that the pratiika should hold a prominent place in the hall during our Ananda Marga marriage ceremonies. At the same time, there is no mention in Caryacarya of having Guru's photo on display. 

The reason is that some non-margiis may be attending the marriage and Baba's photo should not be displayed in front of those who do not have utmost reverence for Him. That is why we should strictly follow Caryacarya and not put His photo on display during our Ananda Marga marriage ceremonies. Whereas, with the pratiika, non-margiis will positively accept it as a tantrika symbol and will have respect for it - just as every religion and organisation has their own symbol. So even if non-margiis do not know the full significance of the pratiika, they will accept it at face value and not degrade it. But that is not the case with the photo. 

To preserve the sanctity of the photo, at our Ananda Marga marriage ceremony we must not put Guru's pratikrti [photo] on display. On this matter, we must strictly abide by the dictates of Caryacarya, and not show the photo. 

Reference
1. Caryacarya - Part I, Marriage Ceremony


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Dwellings of Lord Shiva

In His following guidelines, Baba tells us where Lord Shiva was living. 

(a) Here below Baba clearly states that Lord Shiva was going to Varanasi and residing there, most notably during the winter season.  

In Ananda Vacanamrtam - 43, Baba says, "‘वाराणसी’ नाम हुआ था...शिवोत्तर तन्त्र period में लोग इसको पुण्य क्षेत्र मानते थे क्योंकि शिव यहाँ आते थे, रहते थे ।" (1)

(b) Next, Baba describes how during the hot season Lord Shiva was in the mountainous regions, including Mount Kailash. 

Baba says, "There have been five acknowledged Tantras since ancient times – Shaeva, Shákta, Gáńapatya, Saora, and Vaeśńava. Shaeva Tantra was equally present in this mountain region and its nearby areas. It was a little stronger in the mountains because this area is called “Shiva's Field”. The name of the mountains is also the Shivalic Range. Shiva used to remain mostly in this area, also in the Mount Kailash region." (2)

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam-43 (Pure), chapter 15
2. Shabda Cayanika - III, Kabala to Kaḿsári (Discourse 20)


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Best place for sadhana

You might have heard some people say that, “This place is very good for sadhana.” Especially, you will hear this in Ananda Nagar, Jamalpur, Tiljala, Ranchi etc. They like to create the feeling that in order to get a special blessing you have to come to Ananda Nagar, Jamalpur, Tiljala, Ranchi etc and sit under that particular rock or tree etc. And then only sadhana will be best. Because that place emanates a spiritual vibration. Baba’s below teaching debunks this idea. 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “To differentiate between different places for sádhaná, to consider one place more suitable than another, or to regard a particular spot as good and another bad, is to divide Brahma. Every place in this creation is the manifestation of the Supreme Cosmic Entity (Brahma), and to call one place good and another bad is to attribute these qualities to Brahma. If sádhaná is based on the consideration of good and bad, it will never be possible for one to develop the feeling of oneness with the rest of creation. One will never be able to love others as oneself. To Brahma every place is the same, and sádhaná can be practised anywhere.” (1)

If some place is isolated or a natural setting and there is no pollution of any kind, then that is suitable for sadhana in comparison to a noisy bus stop that smells like an open sewer. That is based entirely on the environmental qualities. The above teaching debunks the myth that some place is spiritually important, whereas other places are not.  

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Elementary Philosophy, Why Are People Afraid of Intuitional Practice?


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Prout based on intuition

   Prout philosophy states, “The approach of PROUT is subjective approach through objective adjustment. This presupposes a connecting link between intuition and intellect. This connecting link or touching point is called “Bodhi Jiṋána”. With the help of Bodhi Jiṋána, intuitional knowledge can be utilized for solving mundane problems. Thus PROUT is a Bodhi Jiṋána.”
   “Logic is a psychic survey. Such a survey may or may not be correct, therefore it is futile to follow logic blindly. The result of your psychic survey is called your rationality. This psychic survey, embedded in relativity, may or may not be correct. Intuitional vision is the best logic. Intuitional vision should be your guiding ideology. For example, it is an axiomatic truth that everything has come from the Cosmic Father and everything will merge in Him, but this truth is beyond the scope of intellectual logic.” (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 15, Talks on Prout


== Section 4: Links ==

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