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Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Doing pracara with religious followers + 4 more

Baba

Doing pracara with religious followers

Namaskar,
 
Strictly following the bhagavad dharma of Ananda Marga is ideal because it is based on rationality and universal well-being. But If someone is an adherent of harmful dogmatic teachings from the religions, then surely they are deadly. Here Baba points out the defective mind-set of such persons.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "It is very difficult to persuade religious bigots to follow the path of logic because according to them even to listen to others is a sinful act. This is nothing but mere sentiment. According to some religions beef eating is forbidden but the killing of deer and goats is permissible. This is totally irrational." (1)

In this age of reasoning, most are not convinced or drawn in by religions. Because religions do not follow the path of logic, so the good people just think such dogmatic teachings etc are outdated. For this reason the various religions are shrinking.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In comparison to a 100 years ago, religion on the whole is a much weaker force than it used to be. In the Middle Ages, millions were killed in the name of religion during the crusades. Today, however, religion is no longer the dominating influence in peoples' lives. Mostly it is just a namesake - i.e. something that people passively follow.

Most do not ardently adhere to the various religious rituals and mandates. People no longer base their lives on what the scriptures say. With the rise of science, people depend more on their logic and reasoning. They are no longer moved or swayed by irrational religious doctrines. Verily, religion is fading away in most parts of the globe.

Lambasting religions creates horrible backlash


If an overtly offensive attack is launched against those religions on the sentimental plane then there will be tremendous backlash. There will be a major uprising as waves of those followers will staunchly line up behind their religion.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Through such religions it is next to impossible to establish unity in the society. Religious differences should be minimized as much as possible, but it should be remembered that blind faith in a religion cannot be forcibly eliminated. To strike at any type of sentiment will only cause that sentiment to grow stronger." (2)

Why do we see - from time to time - profane language used by political leaders? Because of some political gain. This has happened time and again. It has happened in the past and will recur in the future. Intelligent people should always be alert and remain aware of such tactics. Those not in power incite tense situations to get the power and thereby create chaos in the society. This unfortunate maneuver occurs all around the globe. When we see such incidents it means some political gain is at stake. Those not in power want to come in power by escalating the situation and creating differences.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The key point here is that if we allow people to create religious conflicts by such ploys then fissiparous tendencies and divisive forces will rise and society will be torn apart. All remnants of peace will be gone. To lambaste any religion on sentimental grounds will only make matters worse. That is Baba's pointed warning. Religious leaders cannot say "use your brain" because the religions do not adhere to rational teachings.

So if we attack their religious sentiment by insulting them that will only invite a dogmatic resurgence of that religion. Everyone should be careful about this.

Psychological approach needed with religious followers


Here Baba outlines what our approach should be in order to create peace and harmony in the society.

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "Psychological methods will have to be employed to make people realize the irrational nature of blind religious faith. This requires a rational interpretation of philosophy through enlightened intellect. When the human mind is gripped by the fear psychology it gives indulgence to blind faith rather than logic and reason. If human fear is removed through logic and reason, the very basis for blind faith will be weakened. That is why human beings will have to be taught philosophical doctrines in a rational way." (3)

We are to generate interest in logic and reasoning within the common people. Gradually those believers will begin to use their brain and that is the most opportune time to teach them. So logic and reasoning are our faithful tools to combat religious dogmas. Resorting to insulting behaviours and / or belittling their faith will not do.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In His teachings on neo-humanism, Baba guides us to fight against isms and dogmas with our logic and reasoning. And that logic and reasoning can only be successful if one has inherent love for all of humanity. Such persons are sadvipras. They only can wipe away dogmas and isms. Whereas, if politicians try to crush, suppress or push aside the religions they will fail. The communists tried that scheme but they could not smother those religions. Rather such religions flourished underground.

Ananda Marga philosophy teaches us, "It should be remembered that there are certain differences in the society which should be taken into proper consideration. These differences are usually removed through natural fusion. It is not possible to eradicate them by force. When human beings come close to each other with a genuine feeling of unity, when they share the common joys and sorrows of life, those external differences gradually vanish as a matter of course. In the human society there are four main types of external differences: food, dress, language and religion." (4)

That is why Baba encourages inter-caste, inter-race, and international marriages. And indeed we see that in any metropolitan city around the globe where there is a wide representation of diverse ethnic groups living and working together, such as in New York, Sao Paulo, or Berlin, etc such types of heated social problems are much less.

We should rally around similarities not differences. We can also encourage rational philosophical discussions as that will clear up the minds of students.

Religions demands not using the brain


If we allow impulsive and fiery preachers to burn the Koran, Bible, Torah, Giita etc, then that will only ignite the flames of religious outcry and rebellion. That will be counter-productive.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The most detrimental aspect of religion is that people stop using their brain. In any era, country, or place where religion is very dominant, people are forced to blindly follow dogmatic edicts and keep away from rational analysis. In result, they degrade themselves to near animals.

This is not just limited to religious affairs, but in all spheres of life those believers become accustomed to blindly following certain politicians and radio show hosts. A leader declares: "Vote for this candidate", "support this proposition", "buy this product", and the people respond - blindly. So their habit to passively follow and obey - without using their brain or critical intellect - applies to social, political, and economic life as well. Verily that habit of not using their brain in other spheres of life is the byproduct of religion.

Everyone knows that the rational intellect is the unique quality of being human yet the religions mostly force people not to use their intellect - they stifle the entire method of free inquiry and open discussion. If we gradually encourage logic and reasoning - especially with youths - then gradually the hateful religions will be a relic of the past.

The rate at which religion is fading now is staggering; it is on a big downturn. We should raise the slogan of intellectual freedom and rational thinking. Then we can get success because religion does not allow such logic and reasoning. That is why Ananda Marga is working hard to establish educational and neo-humanistic institutions around the globe.

Respectful, philosophical debate, not attack religious sentiment


As margiis we should understand Baba's guideline for discussing the religions. In Ananda Marga, we appreciate healthy debates on philosophical grounds based on religious teaching and preachings. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Read any so-called religious book: one will seldom find anything resembling tolerance of the religious beliefs of others...If necessary, different views can be compared and presented in philosophical books. The philosophical and psychological loopholes in an argument may be pointed out without being disrespectful.” (5)

Hence we can respectfully speak about the loopholes of any of the religions in a very psychological manner. For instance in Christianity we can debate their positions on heaven, hell, and Satan etc, and with Hindus we can raise the point of idol worship etc. We can discuss why these things are right or wrong with regard to all the religions.

But these philosophical discussions should be carried out in a very respectful and dignified manner. There should not be an iota of hatred or disrespect towards any religion.

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, "Never attack the religious beliefs of anyone. Make the person understand gradually with logic. If you attack a person’s religious beliefs, it means you have attacked Ananda Marga." (6)

We do not support any type of attack on one's religious sentiments. That means no bible burning, no Koran burning, no destroying of idols, no wall writing about the religions using offensive language etc. It is fine to politely discuss the defects of idol worship, but we should not stand from afar and hurl rocks at those Hindu temples.

Debating the principles is very important, but we should not hurt their emotional or sentimental feelings towards their religion. That will only lead to social chaos and rouse the followers behind those religions. Because at that time their rational brain is not functioning, rather their ego and emotions are dominating. That is why the problems will escalate.


Use brain as to how far it is logically meaningful

The question comes: Why should we encourage philosophical debates? Because we believe in the liberation of intellect and free use of logic and reasoning. Before choosing any religion, one should use their brain to determine how far that religion is logically meaningful.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

It is commonly seen in society that when people are buying things in the market they carefully consider how they should spend their money. But when committing their entire heart and emotional feeling to a certain religion then they do not use their brain. They do not question its veracity.

For instance, Hindus believe that if you hold the tail of a cow on the bank of the Ganges in Varanasi and pay a priest 50 rupees to recite the rituals for "godan puja", then you will go to eternal heaven and receive all kinds of luxuries and niceties. Likewise in Catholicism, if a follower confesses their sin and gives money to the priest then their sin is removed and a seat is reserved for them in heaven. And similar tactics are done in Islam and Judaism as well. Followers are led by tales and tall talks.

Such an approach is not good. Everyone should use their brain and logic and see how far it is rational to surrender to those religious beliefs and theories.

In any geographical region where education is prevalent, the grip of religious dogma is melting fast. But where people are not well educated, they are more prone to illogical beliefs, rituals and dogma. So education is very important. It should not be forgotten that even in a so-called first world nation like the US, 14% of the population is illiterate - they cannot read and comprehend the newspaper. We should work hard to raise the intellectual standard of all peoples in all countries - that will help promote an environment of all-round respect and cordiality.

Conclusion


With the rise of science, logic, and reasoning, the influence of religion is far less than it used to be. However, if anyone insults, taunts, and attacks any religion, then those blind religious followers will create an uproar.

As in the case of all key issues, as Ananda Margiis we should be crystal-clear about Baba's teaching. We should know our stand - i.e. the stand of Ananda Marga. If someone threatens to publicly burn the Bible or the Koran, or mocks Hindu idol worship etc, that is bad.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba has given us all the teachings to form a harmonious human society. We should pay heed to His guideline of not hurting anyone's religious sentiment nor should we try and forcefully root out any dogma by methods of suppression, repression, or terror. We are all one people - brothers and sisters - united under the loving shelter of one Supreme Entity. Whatever differences we have should be sorted out in a respectful, safe, and diplomatic manner.

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "The more human beings live in unity, shoulder to shoulder, the greater the welfare of the human race will be. Let no one try to suppress others on the basis of nationality, language, religion or anything else in any sphere of life. Let the path of full expression of human intelligence be kept open forever." (7)
 
Namaskar,
In Him,
Sevika’
 
A few people believe their Proutistic samaj to be the holiest - and that their samaj should rule over the others. They claim all this in the name of Prout’s teachings on samaj. However, those who sincerely review the Prout samaj system will clearly recognise when anyone tries to make such claims, then that is groupism - and not part of the samaj system.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 

References
1. Prout Nutshell - 7, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2
2. Prout Nutshell - 7, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2
3. Prout Nutshell - 7, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2
4. Prout Nutshell - 7, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2
5. Human Society - 1, Moralism
6. Caryacarya - 2, "Society", Point #9
7. A Few Problems Solved - 3, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 3


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Should our Wts act / dance on stage?

Ananda Marga Caryacarya says, "An a'ca'raya or purodha' cannot actively participate in any acting." (1)

Note: Keeping Baba's above guideline in view, see the standard of certain Wts (acaryas and purodhas) who have acted on stage at various retreats and seminars. Every margii should be aware of the rules so that when something like this occurs they can come forward and help rectify the situation - thereby upholding Baba's teaching and the code of Caryacarya. Some purodhas were violating this rule in the past by singing and dancing rap music etc on stage at the annual overseas retreats etc - hopefully they have since mended their ways.

Reference
1. Caryacarya - 1, Social Relationship between Men and Women


== Section ==

मगरमच्छ व्यवसाय करते हैं, सेवा नहीं

पशु जीवन में सेवा नहीं है | पशु जीवन में अगर है भी, वह क्या है ? न, mutual transaction—जिसको कथ्य भाषा में व्यापार, अंग्रेज़ी में business कहते हैं | दो रुपया दिए, दो रुपया का नमक लिए—Mutual exchange | इसका नाम “सेवा” नहीं है | शास्त्र में इसका नाम है—“व्यवसाय” | हिन्दी में कहते हैं—“व्यापार” | “Commercial transaction” अंग्रेज़ी में कहते हैं | तो, यह पशु जगत्‌ में भी है | जैसे, घड़ियाल जानते हो ? मगरमच्छ—पानी में रहता है, बड़ा-बड़ा crocodile ?
क्या कहते हो यहाँ ?
[मार्गी लोग—“मगरमच्छ” |]
हाँ, मगरमच्छ | मगर | संस्कृत में मकर | तो, वह क्या करता है ? वह तो मांसाशी जीव है, carnivorous | वह खाने के बाद क्या करता है ? पानी में अब नहीं रहता है | वह पानी में जाता है केवल शिकार पकड़ने के लिए | वह पानी का जानवर नहीं है | जानवर ज़मीन का है | तो, वह उठता है, उठकर क्या करता है ? मुँह ऐसे रख देता है | हाँऽऽ [मुँह खोलकर] करके रहता है | उसके दाँत के भीतर में गोश्त घुस जाता है न ? तब, होता है क्या, कि छोटी-छोटी चिड़िया आती हैं | उसके मुँह के भीतर घुस जाती है | और जो दाँत में थोड़ा-थोड़ा जो गोश्त रह गया, वही वह चिड़िया खाती है | उस चिड़िया को खाना मिल गया | और, मकर का क्या हुआ ? दाँत साफ़ हो गया |
[हँसी]
तो, mutual exchange है | तो, उस वक्त मकर, मगरमच्छ कभी मुँह बन्द नहीं करेगा | तब तो वह चिड़िया मर जाएगी—सो नहीं करेगा | वह, mutual exchange है, व्यापार | चिड़िया कहेगी कि—“तुम्हारे दाँतों से, मैं क्या पा रही हूँ ? न, गोश्त पा रही हूँ |” और, वह देखता है कि—“तुम्हारी कृपा से मेरे दाँत साफ़ हो रहे हैं |” तो, mutual exchange | “रुपया दो नमक लो” |
[हँसी]
हाँ | तो, यह है business | 


 [यह बाबा के कैसेट से सीधे लिखा गया, बाबा का यह असली प्रवचन, अमृतोपदेश है। आनन्द मार्ग हिन्दी पुस्तकों में छपे प्रवचन तो नक़ली प्रवचन हैं, असली नहीं]  (1)

Reference
1. 15 October 1979, Nagpur


== Section ==

परमपुरुष! तुम बादलों के गर्जन और वर्षा के


प्रभात संगीत 298

हे परमपुरुष! बाबा ! अनेक युगों से यह सूखी और अनुपजाऊ धरती तुम्हारे आने की प्रतीक्षा करती रही है ,और अब बादलों के गर्जन और वर्षा होने के रूपमें तुम आ गये हो। गर्मी से प्रभावित होकर थकी हुई धरती ने नयी आशा  के साथ तुम्हारा स्वागत किया है।

बाबा, मेरे मन-मयूर के पंख सैकड़ों लयों और तानों में नाचने लगते हैं। गूॅंगे लोगों को भी भाषा मिली है, और अब वे अलौकिक पुरुष  की ओर दौड़ रहे हैं। हे परमपुरुष! तुम बादलों के गर्जन और वर्षा के रूपमें यहाँ आ गये हो ।

हे परमपुरुष! आज तुम को पाकर मेरा हृदय छलकने लगा है और सभी दसों दिशाओं में तुम्हारी  दिव्य प्रभा बहती जा रही हैं । हे परमपुरुष! तुम बादलों के गर्जन और वर्षा के रूपमें यहाँ आ गये हो ।

बाबा, आज मेरे लिये करने को कुछ नहीं है, तुम्हीं में तन्मय होकर तुम्हारे विचारों में डूब कर, मैं तुम्हारे ही रूप को देखता जाता हॅूं । तीनों लोकों की भूख और तीनों लोकों का अमृत मिलकर एक हो गये हैं। बाबा ! यह तुम्हारी ही कृपा है आज तुमने आकर भक्ति की अपार वर्षा की है। हे परमपुरुष! तुम बादलों के गर्जन और वर्षा के रूपमें यहाँ आ गये हो ।


== Section ==

Tear off the fog of dogma and march on smashing under your feet - Ananda Vanii #70

“In the crimson rays of the early dawn floats the trumpet sound from the distant blue void. The call resounds: Arise, awake and waste no time in sleep. Tear off the fog of dogma and march on smashing under your feet the sky-kissing challenges of the rocky mountains. Remember that victory does not come by itself. Victory has to be invited and welcomed with sweat, the warmth of the blood and the fiery flames of hard labour. The task you have undertaken has to be brought to its consummation. When the mission is noble victory is sure to come. So do not sit inert wasting your valuable time. Be ready to give a fitting response to the clarion call of the cosmos. Be ready from this very moment.”

Note: The above is one of Baba’s original Ananda Vaniis. These original and true Ananda Vaniis are unique, eternal guidelines that stand as complete discourses in and of themselves. They are unlike Fake Ananda Vaniis which are fabricated by most of the groups - H, B etc.


== Section 2: Links ==

Postings to Read
Way to enhance sadhana
A guide to cemetery meditation
Failure of hunger strikes
The worst bondage: blind attachment

Saturday, August 9, 2025

Way to enhance sadhana + 6 more

Baba
Way to enhance sadhana

Namaskar,

There are many points that create a good sadhana flow including kiirtan, svadhyaya, satsaunga, second lesson, diet, intermittent dhyana etc. All these contribute significantly to our meditative state and success in sadhana. But other practices like asanas also play an important, invaluable role.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

How certain vrttis become excited


AM Caryacarya states, "The relation between the physical body and the mind is very close. Mental expression is brought about through the vrttis, and the predominance of the vrttis depends on different glands of the body. There are many glands in the body and from each there is a secretion of a particular hormone. If there is any defect in the secretion of hormones or any defect in a gland, certain vrttis become excited. For this reason, we find that in spite of having a sincere desire to follow the moral code, many persons cannot do so; they understand that they should do meditation, but they cannot concentrate their minds because their minds become extroverted due to the external excitement of this or that propensity. If a person wants to control the excitement of these propensities, he or she must rectify the defects of the glands. Ásanas help the sádhaka to a large extent in this task, so ásanas are an important part of sádhaná." (1)

Seriousness


Some people do pseudo asanas - they do not follow Carycarya with regards to timing, number of rounds, and regularity. Nor do they follow the proper technique. When not done properly, then the approach is just pseudo. To get the best yield one must strictly adhere to Baba guidelines: (a) Proper duration for holding the asana, (b) correct number of rounds, (c) done morning and evening, and (d) proper technique.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Only this body can do sadhana


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “While the body is with you, you can practise Sádhaná. When your mind will be detached from your body, you won't be able to do anything, neither physical work nor spiritual work. So you are to do everything while this quinquelemental structure is with you.” (2)

Just before starting sadhana


In a nutshell, we are talking about (a) shashaungasana, (b) viirasana, (c) padmasana, and (d) siddhasana, all of which are featured and described in Caryacaraya III as well as in the Acarya Diary.

* Shashaunga'sana (Hare Pose): The real beauty and import of this asana is doing it directly before sadhana. This asana helps calm the mind and stimulates the pineal gland. Per Baba’s guideline, doing 8 rounds of this asana - 8 seconds each round - just before starting sadhana is extremely useful. This asana is quite beneficial in focusing the mind on sadhana. With it, the mind will not run hither and thither.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Best age of sadhana


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “Even in your old age, you will not be able to perform spiritual practices properly if you do not start the practice from an early age. The best age for doing Sádhaná is from 16 to 49, and the second-best age is from 5 to 16 and from 49 to 69. Before 5 or after 69, the glands become weak, distorted. So the best age for spiritual Sádhaná is 16 to 49.” (3)

* Viira'sana (Hero Pose): As you may know, this is our 3rd lesson asana. Some kneel on their knees without curling the toes underneath, because that is easier and more comfortable. But then 3rd lesson will not be strong. And without a pointed approach in 3rd lesson, dhyana is basically a waste of time. So viira'sana is essential for sadhana. The proper method is to curl the toes underneath. And in just a short amount of time, the position will become quite comfortable and one will feel how it enhances concentration. The mind easily gets more focused and there will be a strong surge of energy at each cakra point when doing third lesson.

Best vehicle for sadhana


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “The main thing here is that when all the glands are in proper order, that age [16-49] is the best age for doing Sádhaná. And the human body is the best structure for doing Sádhaná. Other animals cannot do Sádhaná. Their conscious mind is well developed, sub-conscious is less developed than human mind, and unconscious mind is still less developed, almost nil. The human body is the best body, the best vehicle for the purpose. So no intelligent person should waste a single moment so far as spiritual practice is concerned.” (4)

Example: asanas that help in concentration


* Padma'sana (Lotus Posture): Baba has placed great emphasis on this posture, especially in our practice of first lesson. In particular, it is helpful for doing shuddhis. Because the whole import of doing bhutashuddhi, asanashuddhi, and cittashuddhi is to withdraw the mind from worldly things and situate our mental feeling at our Ista cakra. And padma'sana helps goad the mind away from the physical realm. By first placing the right foot on the left thigh and then bringing the left foot over onto the right thigh, that will help straighten the spine and that enhances concentration. To complete the pose, we then place the right hand on top of the left. Plus the tongue should be rolled back towards the roof of the mouth.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

* Siddha'sana (Siddha posture): This asana looks relatively easy but is extremely difficult. Sometimes people refer to this as half-lotus so they think it is easier than padmasana. But in truth many find it much more difficult to do rightly. Siddha'sana is to be used primarily for dhyana. That is the specialty of this pose because the heels are pressed in towards the muladhara and svadishthana cakras, thereby controlling those lower points and their associated vrttis.

Once that area is suspended through this special process of siddhasana, then the mind will not degrade, and with proper thought and psychic approach the mind will move from its home at ajina cakra and rise up to Guru cakra. This is extremely helpful for sadhana.

Note: Due to the nature of this pose, it is for males only - for anatomical reasons and as per Guru’s guideline in Acarya Diary. In turn, sisters should sit in padmas'ana.


Siddhi in asana

Siddha means 'accomplished', 'practiced', 'comfortable', 'established' etc. We should become siddha in each of the four mentioned sadhana asanas. We are not hatha yogis who practice thousands of asanas all day long. But these four above asanas are integral to a spiritually-vibrated sadhana practice. Siddha means being able to sit in postures like padmasana for 1, 2, or even 3+ hours at a time without feeling any discomfort. Once the physical body is established in this pose, then the mental realm can truly delve deeper into the practice of sadhana. So we should all try to achieve a state of 'siddhi' in our spiritual asana practice.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Conclusion


There are many factors that contribute to a vibrant sadhana practice. That is why Sadguru Baba has graciously given Sixteen Points and other vital teachings and guidelines. All these enhance our sadhana practice. These meditative poses are helpful in rejuvenating one’s sadhana practice.

Namaskar,
In Him,
Shrutidhar

~ In-depth study ~

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “Spiritual aspirants should take care to purify their pituitary gland because this helps in spiritual sádhaná. The secretion of hormones in the upper glands maintains a balance in all the other glands. The pituitary gland is psycho-spiritual in nature, and the pineal gland is spiritual in nature.” (5)

Without this body, one cannot do Sádhaná


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “This body is Dharmakśetra. Without this body, one can not do Sádhaná. Animals can not do sádhaná because they haven’t got a human body. The human body is the most developed on this planet. (6)

Good company & sadhana


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “Pituitary and pineal glands: As a result of the sádhaná [spiritual practices] performed in previous lives, at the age of thirteen, after the sex glands are developed, the pituitary gland starts to function tremendously and one's thirst for spirituality is aroused. If such a person gets proper guidance from a preceptor, one achieves spiritual progress. If one falls into bad company, one's downfall is rapid. After getting proper spiritual guidance, one's mind rises upwards from the pituitary gland to the pineal gland, and with one's mind concentrated on the controlling point of the pineal gland, one attains salvation within a short span of time.” (7)


Seat of mind in abhidhyana

In trying to do dhyana many people unknowingly have their mind in ajina cakra - not Guru cakra. And they become habituated in this way, unbeknownst to them. But in that case, one cannot do true dhyana. To help ensure the mind reaches the Guru cakra, one can lightly touch the very crown of the head as that will help goad the mind in that direction. Without strong spiritual ideation and deep devotion, the mind will not reach up to that pinnacled point. So touching alone will not suffice, but it can help if the other factors are proper.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Lack of sadhana kids will be harmed

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Proper attention should be paid to the physical, psychic and spiritual development of small boys and girls. Just as they sit and study to develop their intellectual capabilities, they should also sit to do their spiritual practices with their parents. That is the way they will develop their spiritual practices. They should take diikśá [spiritual initiation] from an ácárya(á) [spiritual teacher] when they grow up. They should practice the lessons of sádhaná – japa, dhyána, ásana, práńáyáma, etc. – along with their regular academic lessons. All that is necessary for their trifarious development, and it must be perfectly balanced. One should remember that the absence of a proper balance will harm not only the individuals, but also the society as a whole.” (8)

Coward must do mayúrásana


Ananda Marga philosophy states, “By performing ásanas [postures for physico-psychic well-being] regularly, human beings can control the propensities attached to each cakra, and hence the thoughts which arise in their minds and their behaviour. This is because ásanas have a profound effect on the glands and sub-glands. How? All ásanas have either a pressurizing or depressurizing effect on the glands and sub-glands. For example, mayúrásana [peacock posture] has a pressurizing effect on the mańipura cakra. The secretions of the glands and sub-glands of the mańipura cakra and the propensities associated with them will become more balanced if this ásana is practised regularly. If someone has a great fear of public speaking, it means his or her mańipura cakra is weak. Through the regular practice of mayúrásana, this propensity will be controlled and fear will be eliminated. Other ásanas may have a depressurizing effect on the mańipura cakra, and if these ásanas are performed regularly the glands and sub-glands associated with the cakra will become less active. Increased glandular secretions generally make the propensities more active and vice versa. By practising ásanas regularly, one can control the propensities and either increase or decrease their activity. So spiritual aspirants should select the ásanas they perform very carefully. This effect of ásanas on glands and sub-glands has never been revealed before.” (9)

References
1. Caryacarya - 3, Ásanas
2. Ánanda Vacanámrtam - 14, Action and Reaction
3. Ánanda Vacanámrtam - 14, Action and Reaction
4. Ánanda Vacanámrtam - 14, Action and Reaction
5. Yoga Psychology, Bio-Psychology
6. Ánanda Vacanámrtam - 14, Action and Reaction
7. Yoga Psychology, Bio-Psychology
8. The Awakening of Women, Táńd́ava and Kaośikii
9. Yoga Psychology, Glands and Sub-Glands


*        *        *

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 ==

Negative MV can’t hurt sadhakas

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Negative microvita cannot influence a person’s mind at all when one’s mind is moving in the higher cakras. They cannot even fully control the body, although they can have a negative influence to some extent. If a person in a state of meditation keeps his or her mind concentrated at a higher cakra for a long time, and immediately after that negative microvita carried by the smell inference enter the body, these negative microvita cannot overpower the person, but they can do so partially. But if the mind moves towards crude objects, at that time the negative microvita do not spare the person – they will attack the person severely.” (1)

Note: Parama Purusa is the Supreme Controller and negative microvita fall under His jurisdiction. And by His grace, good sadhakas are never adversely affected by negative microvita. 

So only confused people think that negative microvita works independently of Parama Purusa. Most often, this is a result of some kind of religious dogma that’s been carried forth since childhood. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to remove the dogma of Satan from the mind when a person has been raised in such an environment. That is why even a few good margiis are confused on this point and view negative microvita as some kind of Satan. But that is neither rational nor consonant with Ananda Marga ideals.

The Semitic religions do not have any philosophy - just theology. And that is self-contradictory. Their theological approach states that Satan is all-powerful and works independently of God. But according to our Ananda Marga philosophy, Satan does not even exist; and, God alone is all-powerful and the Supreme Controller of everything. He lords over both positive and negative microvita. Everything is controlled by Parama Purusa. To fully understand this, however, one must study all of microvita philosophy. In closing, it has been proven here that Satan and negative microvita are not the same thing.

Reference
1. Microvita in a Nutshell, “Disembodied Souls and Microvita – Excerpt A”

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Take caution with uninformed public

Here following is Baba's short story:

Once there was a fierce contest between two headmasters from neighbouring villages in Burdwan district. It was also a contest between the villages themselves, for each claimed that its headmaster was the most learned. The contest took place in a field between the two villages.

One of the headmasters was a just and learned man, the other was a cunning fellow and a master of deceit. It was the latter who first addressed the gathering. “Ladies and gentlemen, being the underdog in this contest I humbly request you to permit me to ask my opponent the first question.”

“Certainly,” said the crowd. “A man of your humility should undoubtedly ask the first question.”

“Could you tell me the meaning of ámi jáni ná (*)?” the cunning headmaster asked his opponent.

“I don’t know,” replied the learned headmaster.

The cunning headmaster cast a triumphant glance around the audience. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he declared, “I asked him a simple question to which he replied, ‘I don’t know’. Just see how ignorant he is.”

“True! True!” shouted his followers, throwing their umbrellas in the air and dancing stick-dances in joyful abandon. The junior village police officer was so elated that he offered to buy everyone sweets.

The cunning headmaster then said, “Let me give him another chance.”

“Certainly! Certainly!” shouted the crowd.

“Sir, what is required to make viváha?” (**) asked the cunning headmaster.

“It’s quite simple really,” replied the learned headmaster, “ghaiṋ is required. That is, prefix vi plus vaha plus ghaiṋ is equal to viváha.”

The cunning headmaster glowed with delight. He peered at the crowd and said, “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, you are experts in the ways of the world – I am a mere child compared to you. Have you ever heard of anything called ghaiṋ being required in a marriage ceremony?”

“No, no, of course not,” shouted his delighted followers. “We’ve never heard of such a strange thing.”

“Let me tell you what is required in a marriage ceremony. Lets see… a priest, a holy stone, sacred fire, new clothes, towels, baskets, and so on, but nothing like a ghaiṋ. My fourteen [[times]] two – that’s, er, that’s fifty-two – generations [[of ancestors]] have never heard of this peculiar ghaiṋ thing.”

The crowd burst into applause. “Well said! Well said!” they shouted. “You are the most learned headmaster. Congratulations. You’ve won the contest.” (1)

Note: Here the point is that we should be very careful when surrounded by uninformed people and raising serious topics with them. 

Asterisk Notes

* ámi jáni ná: This is a Bengali phrase and the literal meaning is “I don’t know.”

** Sir, what is required to make viváha?: This is one way of asking for the etymological or grammatical breakdown of the term viva’ha. So that is how the learned person responds to the query. In day to day life for the common people, vivaha means marriage. 

Reference
1. Sarkar's Short Stories Part 1, The Headmasters' Contest


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Fatal effect of anger

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “When this anger creates its own vibrations in the mind, it exerts a tremendous influence on the nerve cells in a very short time, and causes disarray in the thinking process. The restlessness of the nerve cells causes a violent vibrational agitation in the nerve fibres, and as a result, the whole body starts trembling; the flow of blood to some parts of the body increases, and the functioning of the heart is disturbed. There is a tremendous deterioration of health. Such a person is easily defeated in any fight. Anger leads to premature death. This is not all. During anger the power of one’s thinking is impaired. Even long after the anger subsides, this state continues, and the constant brooding of the mind disturbs one’s spiritual sádhaná. So we see that the vrtti [propensity] of anger harms the body and stuns the mind and creates obstacles for spiritual progress. Shiva, the great yogi, was well aware of this truth, and thus He clearly stated, Krodha eva mahán shatruh [“Anger is a great enemy”].” (1)

Reference
1. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Shiva's Teachings – 1 (Discourse 9)


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Restraint in thinking

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Petty thoughts give birth to mean behaviour. And mean action is the result of mean behaviour. So a person who does not want to be the perpetrator of any mean deed must maintain restraint in their behaviour and integrity in their thought. That is why the savants and sages of every age and every country have laid enormous emphasis on good behaviour and good thoughts. Good behaviour and good thoughts are regarded as the fundamental human principles. If an honest person always keeps the company of a dishonest person then the honest persons thoughts are bound to degenerate under the influence of bad company. As a result of this degeneration of thought, they can or do wrong things. That is why wise people give so much importance to satsauṋga, that is, good company. In Tantra, special importance has been given to satsauṋga." (1)

Reference
1. Shabda Cayanika - 4, Ku to Kuiṋjara (Discourse 27)


== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

तुम किसके लिये अपलक नज़र से प्रतीक्षा कर रहे हो

प्रभात संगीत 3234 कार तारे तुमि माला गाँन्थियाछो, कार पथ पाने चेये आछो…

परिचय- इस गीत में परमपुरुष, छद्म रूप से  भक्त के सामने आकर उससे पूंछते हुए, अपनी लीला कर रहे हैं। इस प्रकार यह गीत परमपुरुष और भक्त के बीच का अनोखा संवाद है जिसमें परमपुरुष ने भक्त के सामने अपनी पहचान छिपा रखी है।

भावार्थ

हे भक्त! तुम किसके लिये यह माला बना रहे हो? तुम किसके लिये अपलक नज़र से प्रतीक्षा कर रहे हो। वह तुम्हारा सबसे प्यारा कौन है जो दूर रहकर तुमको इतना रुला रहा है, फिर भी वह तुम्हें सबसे प्यारा है! वह कौन है?  वह कौन है जिसको तुम इतना प्यार करते हो कि भूल ही नहीं  सकते? वह सत्ता कौन है जिसके लिये तुम हमेशा  व्याकुल रहते हो और हृदय से पाना चाह रहे हो?

हे भक्त! वह तुम्हारा प्रेमी कौन है जिसके लिये तुमने हृदय में दिव्य अमृत, एकत्रित कर रखा है, और उसका आसन सुगंधित फूलों से सजा रखा है? वह दिव्य कौन है जो तुम्हारा सबसे प्यारा है। वह कौन है जिसके इंतज़ार में तुम अपने अकथनीय कष्टों को भूल गए हो । और उसके ध्यान में अपने मन-चमेली की सुगंध से मतवाले हो गए हो?

हे भक्त!  किसके प्रेम ने तुम्हारे मन को बड़ा बना दिया है, जिसके कारण तुम अनुभव करने लगे हो कि---विश्व के सभी लोग तुम्हारे हैं । कोई भी पराया नहीं, और न ही कोई दूर है। हृदय में तुम अनुभव करते हो कि सभी मेरे निकट के संबंधी हैं । तुमने अपने हृदय के सभी दरवाजे और खिड़कियाॅं अपने प्रेम को उड़ेलने के लिये, और सम्पूर्ण मानवता की सेवा के लिये खोल रखे है।

 हे भक्त! तुम किसके लिये माला बना रहे हो? साधना और ध्यान करते हुए तुम किसकी प्रतीक्षा कर रहे हो तुम्हारा प्रेमी कौन है?

टिप्पणी-

1. चमेली की सुगंध. आनंद मार्ग दर्शन में, इस का यहाॅं उदाहरण दिया है यह सुगंध साधना से संबंधित है। प्रारंभ में भक्त को प्रभु से मिलने की बहुत तीब्र इच्छा होती है जो साधना की सिद्धि में समाप्त हो जाती है, और उनकी कृपा से इस प्रकार की सुगंध की अनुभूति होती है, और भक्त आध्यात्मिक रूपसे मदहोश  हो जाता है। जब साधक की साधना अच्छी तरह होते हुए  चरम पर पहुंचने लगती है, तो अनाहत, विशुद्ध और आज्ञा चक्रों से सूक्ष्म ग्रन्थिरस निकलते हैं । जिनकी इस प्रकार की सुगंध होती है जो साधक के मन को शांति  और तृप्ति देती है। यह परमपुरुष की समीपता के सान्निध्य से होती है। 


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Real vs fake humans

   Baba says, "The third essential factor of Bhágavata Dharma is sevá. Only humans are aware of their own identity. Plants, animals and material objects are not aware. A rupee does not know that it is a rupee. A mango tree does not know that it is a mango tree. A jackal does not know that it is a jackal. But humans know that they are human."
   "Human beings also know that Parama Puruśa is their source of impetus, is their Father, and that they are all His children. As His children, they have a brotherly relationship with all other jiivas, or unit beings. Due to this knowledge of brotherhood, the human is superior to all other beings. Parents are greatly pleased when they find that their children have been loved and helped by someone. Similarly, Parama Puruśa will be pleased when you serve His creation – not only human beings, but also plants, animals, and the rest of creation. That is, bhúta yajiṋa, pitr yajiṋa and nr yajiṋa are to be performed. Those who have this feeling are in the real sense of the term human beings. Just having the body of a human does not make a person a real human being, a rational being." (1)

Note: There are many, especially in materialistic societies, who do solely for their own self-gratification and personal entertainment etc. Sometimes it may look like they are doing social service work, but it is not social service in the true sense. Because they are doing that "service" only to enhance their own prestige, garner praise, or because it gives them some sort of selfish pleasure.

The proof is when the "service" work is no longer pleasurable or suiting their needs, then they stop doing it. In that case, what they are doing is not service, but a form of selfish indulgence.

If in their “service” activities, a person does not have the feeling of Brahma bhava, then what they are doing is not true service, but a form of selfishness. Those who are doing true seva are real human beings and those who lack this quality are not real human beings.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, The Requirements for Sádhaná



Role of margiis: past & present + 2 more

Baba
Role of margiis: past & present 

Namaskar,

It is well known that family margiis have played a tremendous role in the start-up, growth, and development of Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha (AMPS). During the first 7 or 8 years of organisational life, there were no Wts. It was those dedicated margiis who initially preached the gospel of Ananda Marga ideology. And even after the creation of the wholetimer cadre in 1962, Baba continued to place great responsibility on family margiis.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

Demolition of margii structure after 1990


Unfortunately, after 1990, in a destructive and systematic fashion, certain group leaders demolished many aspects of the margii side of the organisation. Most notably, the bhukti pradhan (BP) post has become mostly a shadow of its former self as group leaders fix elections to put their stooges in power and victimise those dharmika BPs, ensuring they have no voice at all.

The PKB (Purna Ka'lika Bandhu) position and other important margii posts have been all but eliminated. By sidelining and abusing those margii postholders, those positions have become eradicated entirely, or remain as mere skeletons of the way things were prior to 1990.

Let's take a brief look back and see the grand role bestowed upon family margiis in the formation of AMPS. This demonstrates that margiis have a rightful place in the organisational structure of AMPS as they provide a key sense of stability and balance. 
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com


Senior margiis requested by Baba to tour globe

While certainly many family margiis have had leading roles in AMPS, here we examine the case history of a few notable margiis from those early days. 

Margii B. of Tamil Nadu along with senior margi brother, the late Sri B.V.R. of Coimbatore (South India), travelled to Europe upon Baba's order to do AM pracar, participate in the first AM Global Conference held in Mainz, Germany, and in the first Prout Convention in Paris, France. Those days, it was no small matter to travel from India to Europe, and those were inaugural conferences and conventions, yet Baba entrusted the vital responsibility of being an organisational representative upon two family margiis.

In particular, Margii B. and R. focused on pracar efforts in Germany, France, Italy, and Switzerland. Then, on a separate tour, Margii B. was ordered by Baba to do AM pracar in Southeast Asia, in countries and places such as the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore. Along with many other duties and responsibilities, Margii B. was chosen as the master translator whenever Baba visited South India & Tamil Nadu.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

Margiis play a big role in AMPS


And verily Sadguru Baba placed great trust and faith in innumerable margiis and gave them numerous important organisational posts. Up through 1990, the PKB designation, Purna Ka'lik Bandhu or 'Whole-Time Friend of the Marga', held great honor, respect, and responsibility. 

Who can forget how important margiis like Sri Dharmenrda Rao of Devariya worked full-time as PKBs in India. Other notable PKBs were H. who was involved in ACB Society Building Department, P. who worked in the Publications Department in Tiljala, and Dr S. who was the in-charge at a clinic in Tiljala. All these aforementioned margiis and so many others made great contributions at the lotus feet of Baba for the development and growth of AM. With their full mind and heart, they did whatever was demanded of them and more, for the welfare of our Marga. Such margiis were eager to serve Baba and play a great role in the development of AMPS.

Still today, so many margiis have such a strong desire, but due to the present organisational climate, there is little or no scope for margiis to take on such roles. It is a terrible tragedy that today, that entire enterprise of the Marga has dried up due to the selfish and exploitative behaviours of certain so-called top Wt group leaders. Sadly, we do not see margiis being used in the organisation in a dynamic way these days.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

Monkey analogy


The whole situation can be likened to one shy, quiet person who was eating a very tasty meal. Seeing that individual, a wild gorilla thought he was much stronger and could bully that person. So the gorilla went over there and pushed that man to the ground and took away all his food. The gorilla ate what he liked but threw most of the food all about - just wasting it. In result, that person lost all his food and had no meal to eat. This is the analogy depicting the tragic state of affairs nowadays in our AMPS. The bully Wts have malevolently intervened and stripped family margiis of all their rights, posts, and responsibilities which had been bestowed upon them by Baba. 

Conclusion

All in all there is great benefit to be gained by allowing family margiis to play a dynamic role. And indeed it is not a question of "allowing margiis", but rather paying heed to Baba's wish: It is the birthright of margiis to have an important role. That is Baba's design and edict.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

By tapping into the great potential of family margiis, our organisation will increase its resources and capacity many fold. Plus, by these experiences, family margiis will become more dynamic and capable. And our wholetimers will have a better support structure and will be able to focus more on acarya type of programs, not just money-making etc.

So there is lots to be gained in all respects by creating a truly coordinated cooperative structure as in the days prior to 1990. By remembering the great contributions made by family margiis up till 1990 and restoring their dynamic role in the organisation, we will create a dynamic AMPS at the earliest.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "What I said just now is that now humanity is at the threshold of a new era. And so many epoch-making events, so many annals of history, are to be created by you boys and you girls. Be ready to shoulder that responsibility of ages to come. You boys and you girls, what do you say? Are you ready for your revised duties and responsibilities?" (1)

In Him,
Parashram

~ In-depth study ~

More of that history 

For everyone's awareness, here is more about the dynamic history of Margii B.'s dedicated involvement in the Marga. By Baba's wish, Margii B. got imprisoned during Indian Emergency in the years 1975 to 1977 for 21 months in Chennai Central prison.  
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

At the end of that time, he was in Salem prison along with the then P. A. Dada Ramananda ji & Dada Shiveshwarananda ji. And so many other incidents took place in the life of this humble soul in service to Lord Baba. And he always felt himself only to be a machine in the hands of Baba, just to inspire others. 

In 1964 Margii B. got initiated and within 15 days got the opportunity to hear Baba on one of His finest topics 'The Stance of Salvation and How to Attain It' at Salem itself. And he got his 1st lesson revised by  Baba in 1965 on the Tiger's grave at Jamalpur & much later on his insistence & by His Grace received microvita sadhana in 1987 at Tiljala. 

Margii B. was present when the eternal song of Proutists was sung by Baba with all the melody during a visit to Baba in Bankipur Jail after his release from the prison. And top of all it is His grace how Baba loves us through ordeals and crisis. His grace is causeless and endless.


Appendix: Key Info 

(A) The guidelines, rules, and regulations for Purna Kalik Bandhu are similar to those for LFTs. 

(B) The PKB (Purna Kalik Bandhu) position was given by Baba in 1989 - 90. In contrast, the ACB (Advisory Committees & Boards) system was given by Baba in 1980. 

(C) Here is a listing of some of the PKBs in the pre-1990 era:
  • Dr Suresh - Tiljala full-time doctor
  • Ac Dharmendra Rao Deoria
  • Ac Candranath ji
  • Ac Raghunath ji
  • Ac Pratapaditya' ji
  • Ac Harishankar ji
  • and countless others

References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 5, Humanity Is at the Threshold of a New Era


== Section 2: Links ==
Bhakti: what to remember

SUBJECTS TOPICS