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Monday, March 24, 2025

Psychic disease of Indian youths + 4 more

Baba

Psychic disease of Indian youths

Namaskar,

There are numerous ways in which inferiority complexes affect one's daily manner. The irony is that often those afflicted do not realise or like to admit it, which means they can never grow and overcome this debility. And not every Indian succumbs in this way. Not all desire to give up their local habits and customs in favour of European styles and fashion. But this is a dominant trend. Because of their inferiority complex they lose their sense of rationality and discard their own trusted approach and their prana dharma and latch onto cheap, western pseudo-culture. This is a theme in India, as well as around the globe. In His Prout discourses Baba Himself has discussed this in great detail.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


How inferiority complexes manifest in day to day life


All should read this with an open mind. Although the following examples are related with India, no one can say that an entire population in any given country or region is good or bad. Not every inhabitant of India has an inferiority complex, however the majority of the educated people suffer in this way. It is evident by their behaviour. And, in reality, these issues are global in nature and pervasive in so many lands and communities. It is not limited to a particular country.

In this era of extreme capitalism and mass-produced pseudo-culture, a potent tool is needed to protect peoples and communities from being enveloped and swallowed up by the dominant, exploitative, economic machine. Already, native populations and minorities have been made to feel inferior by the dominant class. On points of language, dress, finances, and religion etc, they have been taught that they are not as good.

1. DRESS: Since the time of British rule - i.e. for hundreds of years - Indians have become more and more self-conscious about their dress. At every opportunity they adopt European fashion and give up their own clothing. Indian males gave up using a laungota long ago; plus they adopted western style suits etc. Simultaneously, Indian females have left their traditional dress where their bodies are comfortably covered and adopted western, half-naked fashion. This has grown to such a degree that now they wear all the provocative outfits of western pseudo-culture such as low-cut tops etc.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

When people are not bound by their school or work dress code, and they have the option to wear what they wish, that is the time they express their fancy by unknowingly accepting and wearing clothes of the dominant outside group, i.e. western capitalists. This is all a function of an inferiority complex where they adopt the fashion and habits of the ruling. Some may claim that they are just doing as per their wish. But when people suffer from a serious inferiority complex then their entire power of discernment (sense of viveka) is dysfunctional. The mind cannot think properly. In that case they blindly give up genuine and useful habits and eagerly accept degrading ones advocated by the exploiters.


Embarrassed by their own dharmic traditions


2. HANDSHAKE: Throughout India the handshake has become the symbol of modernity and success. The people no longer like to do namaskar mudra when they see one another. They think that is outdated and out of style. They do not want to be seen doing that. Instead, they want to use the handshake. This is a clear-cut sign of their feelings of cultural inferiority. In that case they discard their sentient and rational approach of doing namaskar, and mindlessly accept the custom of the dominant powers, i.e. the handshake. Those in India prone in this way will justify that this is their preferred selection. But when overwhelmed by feelings of inferiority, they are not in position to make a carefully considered, well-thought decision.

3. HUGGING: Hugging and casually touching the opposite sex has become a growing phenomenon in India. After centuries and centuries of abiding by the great, old tantric codes of gender separation laid down by those exalted rishis and yogis, India has fallen prey to the dirty pseudo-culture ways of the west. They think that will make them modern and part of the internet culture etc, when in fact it just leads to their downfall and degeneration. In actuality, much of India is either openly ashamed of their great past or they just simply do not want to recognise it. The outcome is a full on embrace of nasty, pseudo-culture values where members of the opposite sex openly hug and kiss in public as a form of greetings and so-called friendship. Those youths have an inferiority complex about the India of old, and they do not want to abide by those great, longtime tantric values. They are much more eager to follow the lewd trends they see on the internet and in nasty, pseudo-culture media like movies etc. It is a sad and tragic situation.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

4. FOOD: Although India is rooted in a great tradition of sattvika / vegetarian diet, many are rushing towards western fast foods, snacks, and other unhealthy options. Some traditions are irrational and should be discarded, but a vegetarian diet is well-known to be very suitable and beneficial. In that case, it would be rational to maintain such a tradition of eating vegetarian. But that is not what is happening. The younger generations either lost the ability or never even cared to learn how to prepare traditional Indian fare. They just became caught up in the western food fancies. They think preparing a chapati is what their grandmother would do, and that this is not fit for a modern girl or boy. They do not want to be seen in this way. This is the result of being steeped in an inferiority complex, which thereby shuts down one's ability of discrimination and decision-making. So this is another example of how the dominant culture has imposed its customs by imposing an inferiority complex upon the subjugated masses.

The irony in most of these instances is that often the traditional approach is better, yet people are quick to give it up as they do not want to be branded as outdated or dumb. So they readily adopt the custom of the dominant group so others will think they are smart, modern, and savvy.


“My way is not good enough”


5. CINEMA: It is well-known that Bollywood is just an offshoot of Hollywood. In these films traditional Indian / tantric values have been cast aside and pseudo-culture imagery reigns supreme. If the public had more appreciation and respect for their heritage they would not be so inclined to see such films. That would pressurise the movie producers to appeal to sentient and spiritual themes and values. Instead, feeling burdened by and ashamed of their tantric heritage, Indian moviegoers wholeheartedly embrace and are enamoured by silver-screen stars who portray pseudo-culture Hollywood storylines. Here again some may simply offer that they enjoy such films. But when people are entrenched in an inferiority complex, they cannot make careful, rational decisions. That faculty is lost. And when those films are the cause of so much angst in society, (just look at how this has affected the US and especially youths), it defies all logic to invite this into your social life. Yet that is the trend nowadays.

6. LANGUAGE: Many educated people in India feel shy and ashamed to speak their mother tongue in the marketplace. They think that if others hear them speaking in that way, then they will be branded as a lowly person. This is their fear. Because of this ingrained inferiority complex, they would adopt Hindi or English etc. In contrast, those not suffering from this type of inferiority complex will certainly speak their mother tongue in public; they will not feel shy or embarrassed.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

7. ENTERTAINMENT: Partying, cocktails, spas etc. The entire range of European entertainment is being absorbed by the Indian public. All generations, but especially youths, want to feel and look western and they do this by emulating the pseudo-culture nightlife made famous in the west. They feel their own traditions are archaic, boring, and from a different era. This is another way how their cultural inferiority complex manifests. Even though their own tantric traditions were more rational and logical, they readily opted to adopt European manners as they were encumbered by an inferiority complex that completely ruined their psychic discernment. That is the unfortunate circumstance.


Swapping out tantra for pseudo-culture


8. HYGIENE: For centuries rishis taught the Indian populace countless secrets for good health and hygiene. And the people benefited greatly. Now they do not want to know about those past traditions. Instead they want to embrace the Americana way. One clear-cut example of this is the use of toilet paper. No longer are Indian citizens interested in using water to clean themselves, i.e. their back side. They would be horrified to admit to townspeople that they only use water; such is the depth of their inferiority complex. They prefer to proudly announce that they use toilet paper.

9. FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS: The tantric tradition in India has always been spiritually based - ground in dharma and / or religious rituals, not marred by intoxicants like alcohol etc. Yet now New Year's in India more resembles a materialistic dance party. This is the growing trend where people are eager to leave behind their family's sentient tradition like not touching or hugging the opposite sex social settings, and instead be part of the party scene as depicted on the internet and in movies etc. They feel that by this way they will be accepted as "cool" or "modern". Because of their inherent inferiority complex, they are ready to stoop to the depths of depravity in hopes of being labeled as western and modern. Such is the sad development that has taken place.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

10. DHARMA: More than any other nation, India has been known for its God-oriented way of life. Baba Himself has told that India is the only land whose prana dharma was spirituality. Instead of actively pursuing this path, a growing number of Indian citizens have been turning towards Christianity - the religion of outside exploiters who came to dominate India. Weighed down by their own inferiority complex, people are converting to Christianity thinking this to be a more sophisticated or socially respectable religion.

11. MONEY: India is the single country on this earth that looked upon this world through the vantage point of spirituality. In tantra, wealth means spiritual wealth. Ever since the British invasion and the exposure to western ways, the allurement of money has slowly and steadily grabbed the upper hand until now it is completely rampant. Today people do and die for the dollar and have tragically lost all connection with spiritual ideals. Now it is money and materialism. They think this will give them the prestige and respect they deserve.


Conclusion

These are some of the many ways that depict how our brothers and sisters of India are suffering from an inferiority complex. This is a microcosm of what is happening around the globe. Oftentimes, traditional communities disregard their own heritage that is filled with truth and goodness and adopt cheap, pseudo-culture values of modernity because they are ashamed of their past and want to be associated with the new world. This is the sad and unfortunate trend nowadays - and it is all predicated upon the imposition of feelings of inferiority.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar.
In Him,
Divyajyoti Sharma


How they sow the seeds of exploitation


Once this type of inferiority complex has been set in the mind, the capitalists== can proceed speedily with their exploitative machinery. To varying degrees, this has happened with innumerable peoples and communities around the globe. The only way to rectify the situation and put an end to this cycle of exploitation is to inject those peoples and communities with new prana and vital energy. Then they will have the strength and courage to shed themselves of this inferiority complex and stand up to those exploiters. So long as they feel inferior they are prime targets of exploitation as the capitalists==will mercilessly impose their will with little or no resistance by the exploited masses.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

So long as the Indians felt inferior to the Britishers, and so long as the African-Americans slaves felt inferior to the white capitalists, unbarred and unhindered exploitation was in vogue. They did not have the self-respect or inner confidence to think that they should not be subjugated or victimized in this way. Rather they were brainwashed by the perpetual propaganda of the capitalist elites that they are not worthy. With this inferiority complex suffused in the mind, they were verily shackled and made lame targets of merciless exploitation. That is the extreme danger of suffering from an inferiority complex; yet the exploiters know that their own domination is dependent upon the imposition of that inferiority complex upon those masses. That is the struggle at hand in any exploitative regime / relationship. There are so many examples of this around the globe. Yet, the moment those exploited populations are made aware of their inherent value and that they too are the blessed children of Parama Purusa and have the right to live on this earth with dignity and respect, then the darks clouds of that inferiority complex will evaporate, and the arduous struggle for equal standing will begin. Then and only then will those days of exploitation be finished.


~ In-depth study ~

How dominant group (Britishers) imposed their will


Prout philosophy states, "The English colonialists were also cunning enough to discern the práńa dharma of the people of India, and they deprived them of the freedom to express their práńa dharma. The British wanted to bring the entire Indian race under their colonial grip to make the people slaves. They reformed the old educational system of India and bluntly introduced the English system of education. The English education system was contrary to that of India, because it was based on an objective approach and the complete denial of the subjective approach. The British colonial masters educated the subjugated race on the lines of their own education system, and produced a peculiar group of people who were neither Indian nor civilian nor serviceable. These so-called educated people of India were a complete departure from the mass of Indians in their habits, behaviour, thoughts, modesty and personal integrity. That is why a gulf of difference developed between the so-called educated people and the village people of India. By applying these subtle tactics, a group of people in India became European in attitude although they were Indian in colour, and this group were instrumental in perpetuating the British Raj in India." (1)


How dominant group harms others 

Cooptation refers to the process of absorbing or assimilating individuals, ideas, or groups into an existing system or structure, often to neutralize opposition or maintain control. Here are some examples across different contexts:

Political Cooptation: A government might invite opposition leaders into its ranks by offering them positions of power, like cabinet roles, to quiet dissent. For instance, a dictator could appoint a vocal critic as an advisor to keep them aligned with the regime rather than leading a rebellion.

Corporate Cooptation: A company facing pressure from environmental activists might coopt their message by adopting "green" branding or hiring prominent activists as consultants, while continuing harmful practices behind the scenes. Think of an oil company launching a sustainability campaign to deflect criticism.

Social Movements: A radical protest movement might be coopted by mainstream politics when its slogans or symbols are adopted by a political party, diluting the original intent. For example, a grassroots anti-establishment phrase like "power to the people" could be taken up by a major party to win votes, stripping it of its revolutionary edge.

Cultural Cooptation: A dominant culture might adopt elements of a minority culture, like fashion or music, often commercializing it. An example is the mainstream adoption of hip-hop by large corporations, turning a once-countercultural expression into a profitable industry, sometimes detached from its roots.

Institutional Cooptation: A university facing student protests about tuition hikes might create a "student advisory board" to give the illusion of influence, while keeping decision-making power with administrators.

These examples show how co-optation can be a strategy to manage threats or criticism by bringing them into the fold, often altering their original purpose or impact.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Another example of co-optation is the contemporary yoga movement that exists primarily in the west. Thousands of years ago in India, the concept and practice of yoga was given, and the aim of yoga was to unite oneself with the Supreme Entity and become one with Parama Purusa. Centuries upon centuries later, yoga was hijacked by big corporations and pop stars whereby today yoga has been completely detached and separated from its roots. Sadly, yoga has lost its origin. It exists these days as some type of pseudo-culture exercise for the sake of beauty. For this reason, mostly females join yoga classes, and yoga has been reduced to just some type of bodily exercise. Its original value has been completely lost by co-optation.

References
1. Prout in a Nutshell, Talks on Education – Excerpt B

*        *        *

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 ==

Pours His merciful compassion

"Je tomáre bhálobáse he vásava, tumi táre bhálobáso ki ná..." (Prabhat Samgiita #4487)

Purport:

O’ the love-personified Parama Purusa, maybe I am confused but I often wonder if You care about those who have affection for You, or not. Your liila sometimes unfolds by making others laugh and other occasions making them cry. Your way of expressing affection is beyond my understanding. 

The flowers are blooming but then fall to the ground and become one with the dust. The beautiful spring loses its existence in the burning desert. So many buds withered away and fell apart before they even bloomed. Similarly, even though He is showering His grace always, to the outsider it looks like He does not have any feeling for the soft, tender expressions of those bhaktas. That is why many brand His liila as unkind, despite the fact He has suffused His creation with His supreme benevolence. 

He has made the soft siivantii, chandramallika (chrysanthemum) flower with countless thorns around it. And He covers the charming full moon with the dark, black clouds. This is His grand play. When the fragrant sandalwood tree spreads its aroma all around, He puts countless poisonous snakes coiled around it. Why He plays His liila in this is way I can’t understand. He pours His merciful compassion upon every jiiva, but some do not feel this in their heart. Although, He inundates all with His bliss, some do not feel it....

Note: In the first stanza of this song, the bhakta is asking Parama Purusa indirectly thereby referencing his own situation. Especially in this particular line, "I often wonder if You care about those who have affection for You, or not." This type of scene happens on the path of bhakti. It is just like how small little kids express their unhappiness with their mother for leaving them and not returning back right away. In the same manner, bhaktas of the highest order will benevolently express their disappointment with Parama Purusa for not looking upon them in the way they wish to feel His presence. 


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Importance of mother tongue

Prout philosophy states, “”For the all-round welfare and development of human beings, society needs to follow some fundamental socio-political principles. Without the firm foundation of such principles, disunity, injustice and exploitation will flourish. To avoid this and to safeguard the interests of all people, the leaders of society must ensure that cardinal socio-political principles are strictly followed. Otherwise, individual and collective progress can never be achieved.” (1)

There are three cardinal socio-political principles which should never be violated…..Thirdly, no mother tongue should be suppressed.

    Prout philosophy states, “Several decades ago, Hitler invaded France. He planned to teach everyone German and eradicate French. If he had done this, regardless of anything else that he did, the people would have revolted.”
   “The psychology of suppression undermines the progress of a country. People will eventually revolt against it and restore unity. The sentiments of people cannot be forcibly suppressed for a long time. Human beings best express themselves through their mother tongue. If people’s mother tongue is suppressed, it is equivalent to strangling them. The suppression of people’s mother tongue is a sin.” (2)

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


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Respect the disrespected

   Ananda Marga ideology states, "Human beings neglect many things in this world without any plausible reason. They forget that Parama Puruśa resides in every object, even the most neglected one. They fail to look at the world with proper social benevolence. Suppose a pig is writhing in pain. The onlookers casually say, “Well, it's only a pig – let it die,” and thus neglect Parama Puruśa in the form of a pig. Such an error will result in their overall progress being retarded. One should not detest anything as everything is a manifestation of Parama Puruśa. Parama Puruśa cannot hate anyone or anything in this world – how can He, all are His manifestations – so on what grounds can humans hate anyone or anything. If one hates His manifestation it means that one hates Parama Puruśa Himself. Let no human being be so arrogant.”
   “It has been said, “Amáninam mánadeyam” – “respect the disrespected.” Those who are disrespected and rejected by society should also be recognized by us as manifestations of Parama Puruśa. We must respect them with due honour as Parama Puruśa has chosen to manifest them in that particular way. We should always be very courteous to them. Hence the third duty of a devotee is to respect those people whom no one respects. We must approach those who are unloved, ridiculed, and in need of affection, and tell them we care for them. By honouring them and restoring their dignity we will make them happy; their minds will become filled with joy." (1)

Reference
1. Anadna Vacanamrtam - 7, How Should a Devotee Behave?


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Utterly ridiculous strategy

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Some people consider it propitious to have a holy dip in the Ganges on certain auspicious days. Other people think that by standing knee-deep in water in the winter season they will attain virtue. It is sheer nonsense to expect emancipation in this way. These are merely physical actions which do not guarantee emancipation. However, they may bring emancipation in one way – one may contract a virulent typhoid fever or pneumonia and expire! Na muktirtapanáddhomádupavásah shataerapi. There are some people who die after fasting for thirty or forty days. The members of their community think that they have attained salvation thereby, but one cannot attain salvation by fasting in this way.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 10, Ideation on Brahma


== Section: Ananda Vanii ==

Be vigorously active


Original Ananda Vanii states: "Parama Puruśa has blessed you with hands to work and legs to move; has infused you with the stamina to act; has endowed you with practical intelligence, so make the best use of them in the fight against the demons. You must not sit idle relying on fate. Be vigorously active." (Ananda Vanii #46)

Note: Sadguru Baba has assigned a number to all His original and true Ananda Vaniis. In contrast, Fake Ananda Vaniis do not have any number. By this simple formula, one can easily recognise which is a true Ananda Vanii and which is fake. For the upcoming occasion of January 1st 2017, all Ananda Marga units should use one of Baba’s original and true Ananda Vaniis, not a fake one. By this way, one will surely get His blessing.


== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read
Chequeando el punto nº 10 de los Dieciséis Puntos
How they get off course
Unique quality of mind
When stories undermine pracara


Sunday, March 23, 2025

Raising margii children + 5 more

Baba
Raising margii children

Namaskar,

Baba has given the duty to every margii in the Supreme Command to bring others on the path of Ananda Marga. You might have seen when doing pracar in the general society their tendency is extroversial and they cannot grasp the central idea of spirituality. It is very difficult to bring them on the path of sadhana and spiritual practices; and, in result, despite our hard efforts, the outcome is very meagre - very few margiis are created, if any. To solve this problem Baba has given a grand program to start primary schools across the planet. Unfortunately those programs have been left by the wayside. We could not start primary schools based on neo-humanism everywhere.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Making margiis on mass level


To create Ananda Margiis on the mass level, in a huge quantity, we have to make countless primary schools across the planet based on neo-humanism (rational and analytical thinking). High schools and colleges will not serve the purpose. Maximum academic primary schools are needed, grounded in the tenets of neo-humanism. The main reason is that it is too late to teach spirituality when those kids are teenagers. At that age their minds are no longer flexible to absorb a new outlook. It is only when those kids are in their infancy that they will easily grasp the value of spirituality and they will start thinking in a new and different way. In that environment, when they grow they will be ready to learn higher aspects of Ananda Marga spiritual philosophy. The central idea is that if you want to truly teach anyone then start in their early years. And if it is done late, ie during their teenage years, then it is very difficult. The same formula applies to one’s unit family as well, i.e. inculcate spiritual ideals in infancy. This following letter discusses this approach of how to make your child an ideal, dedicated sadvipra who will be an asset to your family and the society-at-large.

One of the most dramatic and glaring problems we face is how to bring our margii children into the fold - i.e. onto the spiritual path. In this modern era of mass media and consumerism etc, children are easily allured in other directions. In this series certain key points have been discussed such as introducing children to the path of Ananda Marga early in life, creating special Ananda Marga programs for margii children, and celebrating Ananda Marga festivals in our own locale and home etc. Those are also cited below for your review. Here following are more aspects to this highly important topic of building a healthy Ananda Marga society that incorporates 100% participation and involvement of our margii children.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Child education: without spirituality it is animal life


So many times we see that our children are raised primarily caring for their physical well-being and intellectual progress. People want their children to be disease-free and smart. Often that is looked upon as a great accomplishment in raising a child. Verily, in the greater society that is enough for a child to be called 'developed' and 'educated'.

Essentially, in the greater society, the spiritual realm is not recognised, so the competition for becoming great is limited to the other two spheres: physical and psychic. In turn, some margii parents may also be drawn in this direction. They want to make their children prepared and competitive in those two realms because that is what everyone else is doing and that is what the general society values.

However, according to Baba, physical and psychic progress is not enough: That is not the whole picture. Spirituality must also be included in human progress.

Ananda Marga ideology states, "You know, human expressions are trifarious in character. Human beings have so many physical manifestations, psychic desires and longings, and also a spiritual thirst. This spiritual thirst is the specialty, or rather the special characteristic, of human beings, and there lies the difference between humans and other animals. Where there is no spiritual thirst in a man, physically he may be like a man, but actually, psychologically, he is not a man. So this special determination of human beings should always be encouraged, so that man may develop for an ordinary human being to a superman." (1)

Thus, per Baba's view, it is that spiritual component which allows one to become great and it is that spiritual aspect that separates humans from the animal world.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Physical & psychic is not enough


Unfortunately in some margii families, there is greater emphasis placed on the physical and psychic development of our children - while spirituality is looked upon as less crucial, less necessary. This is not always the case but it can happen. One hurdle is that often due to a huge concern about the future financial success of our children, we as parents sometimes think that getting a good general education is the main aspect of life. And once this is achieved then spiritual values can be imparted.

But this brings two problems: Firstly it pushes us back into the animal world. Because as Baba describes even animals impart physical and psychic training to their offspring.

Ananda Marga ideology states, "This spiritual thirst is the specialty, or rather the special characteristic, of human beings, and there lies the difference between humans and other animals. Where there is no spiritual thirst in a man, physically he may be like a man, but actually, psychologically, he is not a man." (2)

So merely sticking to that two-fold approach is not enough.

Teach early: "Who am I, what is my goal"


Hence our children must be awakened to the idea of who they are and why they have been born - as well as what is the goal of life. These existential cum spiritual topics are needed to create the whole human personality.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The second problem is that waiting to impart spiritual values later in life means raising a child without any spiritual education at all. Those early years of a child's life stand as the foundation for nearly all their future endeavours.

This much even the terrorists and dogmatic religions understand. That is why they start at the earliest moment to indoctrinate their children into their way of life. Because they know if you can teach a child early then you have taught a child for life.

In Ananda Marga we should follow that same principle, lest we become disillusioned and depressed when we see that at the age of 18 or 22 our children have not the slightest interest in Ananda Marga and are instead soaked up in materialism, pseudo-culture, etc. This outcome should be averted and the solution is imparting spiritual values and spiritual practices in the very earliest part of their childhood.

Conclusion


Here then Baba provides an ideal picture of how our margii should grow and how we as parents can help support that process.

Ananda Marga ideology 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 diiks'a' [spiritual initiation] from an a'ca'rya(a') [spiritual teacher] when they grow up. They should practice the lessons of sa'dhana' - japa, dhya'na, a'sana, pra'n'a'ya'ma, 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." (3)

Clearly then having a well-mapped out spiritual routine is necessary for all our children. Just as we would think it intolerable for them to go to school without their homework completed, similarly no child should pass the day without setting aside ample time for their spiritual sadhana etc. This is Baba's supreme directive and by His grace in that way the child, the family, and the society will be greatly benefited.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
in Him,
Nirupama'

Why Margiis should reproduce more


Baba wants margiis to have many children, and if you do not have more than 4 - 5 children (both gender) you will not be considered for Family Ac training. Those margiis of good standard and strict in 16 Points should have many children as that way society will grow. And on the other side, thieves, swindlers, and degraded people and sick people should not have children. Those with only 1 - 2 children of the same gender will not be granted family acaryaships. In a 1990 discourse, Baba guides us that Parama Purusa is against family planning because many souls are waiting in queue for a human body so they can complete their journey and attain moksa, by His grace.


~ In-depth study ~

How to make children strong Ananda Margiis

Here are ways to help make our children into good sadhakas and established Ananda Margiis. These are things which we, as Ananda Margiis, have inculcated into the lives of our own children in our home as well as things we hope to bring into their lives in the near future:

1. Bring them into Ananda Marga life as early as possible. Their food habits and bedtime stories should all be sentient based and flavoured with the sweetness of bhakti and neo-humanism.

2. By the age of four or five, try to make their formal education immersed in Ananda Marga ways of doing and thinking. Songs and games should be universal in nature and kiirtan should be incorporated into their daily life. One minute or two minutes before their various activities.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

3. Margii children should be encouraged to play and interact with other margii children. If there are no other margii families in the local school district then try and make arrangements for margii children to play together after-school or on the weekends. This is what we have done and it has had a big effect.

4. The celebration of Ananda Marga festivals is also a great way to bring children into the flow of our Ananda Marga. Instead of them thinking that various dogmatic religious holidays are the best time of year. Rather may we educate our children about our Ananda Marga festivals and in our own house those days should be treated with a wonderfully festive and holiday atmosphere.

Puzzles, song, dance, meditation, stories


5. Attending the sectorial retreats on an annual basis are also an important aspect. The children should meet all our acaryas and be comfortable with our Ananda Marga way of life. Going twice a year to big retreats throughout their childhood will help them establish the base that Ananda Marga is their home and family. Then even if they are not able to attend an Ananda Marga school, there remains a distinct memory of Ananda Marga in their childhood.

6. On Sundays, it is very good to have two dharmackras: either one after another or going on simultaneous. The latter may be better. In either scenario it is needed for there to be a weekly children’s dharmacakra that is perfectly Ananda Marga based yet also suited to the needs and interests of the children. The DC should be age appropriate where games, puzzles, song, dance, meditation, stories, and philosophical tales are all merged into one.

7. The key point is to bring Ananda Marga into your child’s life from the very outset of their existence and to increase those activities as the child grows. The content of their activities, the friends they have, and the emphasis that we as parents place on Ananda Marga all help to establish our children onto the proper path.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Children’s Ananda Marga camp


Let us organise children's camps or scout camps - separate from our main retreats. Let each local unit make 1-3 day camps throughout the year, with longer camps every six months or so. These camps can be joyful, active experiences where margii children come and participate many activities and programs: drama, theatre, sports, games, kiirtan, sadhana along with stories and poetry etc. These children camps can be organised 5-6 times per year. The camps should be gender-separated for those who have entered adolescence while those younger children still in their pre-pubescent years can be in co-ed camps. Certainly the camps will have to be organised according to age and grade-level as there should not be a wide range of ages in the groups.

Again, it has to be emphasized how important such camps are. We have a lot to offer our youths; by learning Ananda Marga ideals they will be wholly transformed. So these camps are invaluable. Already the various religions organise these types of camps. The irony is that those religions have nothing dharmic to teach those children. Whereas, the children who attend our camps will be taught skills, techniques and philosophy that will wholly change who they are are.

By this way our margii children will gradually develop an understanding and appreciation for our Ananda Marga way of life. This will allow internal and theoretical understanding to sprout. Side by side, participating children will make new friends and get satsaunga. This will help steer their course into the dharma of Ananda Marga.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Such camps and Ananda Marga activities should begin as early as possible in the lives of our children, perhaps at the age of four or five. That is the critical time. Because if one misses it then and instead waits for the early teenage years like 12 - 14 etc, then it is basically impossible to bring those children into Ananda Marga. Already they have formed their general approach that is usually painted in the color of pseudo-culture.

That is why Baba has emphasized that neo-humanistic education should be imparted in our primary schools and to young children in general. So those places that have such schools are really fortunate and where those schools are not yet in place these Ananda Marga camps can serve as a solid alternative in this transitional period.

The role of parents


Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The mental outlook of children has already been moulded in a particular fashion by the influence of their family environment before they start school. No matter what or how much they learn at school, it is extremely difficult for them to free themselves from the influence of their family. Drawing on what they have learned in the family, the immature minds of children begin to learn about the world and understand it, and to receive ideas and master language so that they can express those ideas. Unhesitatingly they adopt their elders’ way of looking at the world. Hence the primary responsibility for acquainting children with the world lies with their parents or guardians. Children will become assets of society in the future to the extent that their parents or guardians discharge their duties properly." (4)

Ananda Marga philosophy states,  "Parents will have to take on most of the responsibility for the moral and spiritual education of the child. It should be the duty of society as a whole to ensure that the children of immoral and unrighteousness parents are brought up as virtuous citizens. If possible such children should be removed from the unwholesome environment of their parents." (5)

Thus, as margiis, as mothers and fathers, as acaryas, and as sadhakas, it is our combined and collective responsibility to bring each and every child into a spiritually inspired and subtle way of living. All should come into our Ananda Marga society and become the pillars of the future humanity.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Parents must not do bad things in front of children


In various discourses Baba warns parents not to perform bad deeds or unhealthy habits in front of their children. Best is for parents to rectify their behaviour in all respects. Where weakness remains such as drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, then at least those parents should never do this in front of children. Then those kids will not be inclined to emulated that behaviour. This is a very important point in raising children.

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 12, The Four Kinds of Approach
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 12, The Four Kinds of Approach
3. 5 March 1984, Jammu, Táńd́ava and Kaośikii
4. Human Society -1, Education
5. Human Society -1, Education


== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Despicable mentality of billionaires

Prout philosophy states, "The capitalists of this modern world are anti-dharma, or antisocial, creatures. To accumulate massive wealth, they reduce others to skin and bones gnawed by hunger and force them to die of starvation; to dazzle people with the glamour of their garments, they compel others to wear rags; and to increase their own vital strength, they suck dry the vital juice of others." (1)

The mentality of the capitalist exploiters described in Baba's above teaching is on grand display in the below article where billionaires put on a big show of saving the environment when their real interest is to heighten their own riches. 

~ The below excerpt is courtesy of Daily Galaxy ~

A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: The Illusion of Billionaire Benevolence


The recent retreat of billionaires from climate advocacy is not just a policy shift — it’s a revelation. For years, figures like Gates, Bezos, and Musk have positioned themselves as champions of the environment, leveraging their wealth and influence to shape public perception. 

Yet, their actions often tell a different story. From withholding COVID vaccines from impoverished countries to investing in union-busting corporations, these billionaires have consistently prioritized profit over people.

Gates’ association with Jeffrey Epstein and his efforts to buy media influence further tarnish his image as a benevolent philanthropist. These actions reveal a calculated approach to philanthropy, one that serves to enhance personal wealth and power rather than address systemic issues. 

As the climate crisis worsens, it’s clear that relying on billionaires for solutions was never a viable strategy. Their retreat from the fight against global warming is a stark reminder that true change must come from collective action, not the whims of the ultra-wealthy.


The Billionaire Playbook: Profit Over Planet

The withdrawal of billionaire support from climate initiatives is not an isolated incident. It reflects a broader pattern of behavior among the ultra-wealthy: prioritizing profit over long-term environmental goals. 

Bill Gates, for instance, has long been criticized for leveraging his philanthropy to advance his financial interests. His involvement in the Global Fund, a privately-funded rival to the World Health Organization, led to increased costs for basic medicines as for-profit actors entered the global health sector.

Similarly, Gates’ for-profit green energy investments, such as those in Arnergy and Mission Zero Technologies, continue to thrive even as his nonprofit efforts falter. This duality highlights a fundamental truth: billionaires are, first and foremost, driven by their bottom line. 
~ The above excerpt is courtesy of Daily Galaxy ~

Reference
1. Problems of the Day, Point #1


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Are humans social?

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Some animals are gregarious and others are not. The tiger is not a gregarious animal – it prefers to move alone. Goats are not gregarious, but sheep, elephants and lambs are. Human beings are social beings. They do not like to remain in isolation." (1)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "You know that humans are gregarious beings. There are some living beings who live in groups or clans, and some who live in isolation. In very olden days, human beings lived in clans" (2)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “You are social beings. One cannot live in isolation. When you feel thirsty, you can’t manufacture a spade, dig a well, and draw water yourself. One person will make a spade, another will add the wooden handle, and another will dig the well — this is how we work collectively. This is the way for human beings to live. In all spheres of human existence, in the aesthetic sphere as well, humanity should live collectively. You should live in unison. You should vibrate together to the same music. You should move in a common psychic flow. You should fight collectively against your common enemies. Unitedly you should face all problems, mundane and supra-mundane. In a word, you must reflect the spirit of harmonious collective living in conformity with the spirit of the Vedic mantra Sam’gacchadhvam’ sam’vadadhvam.” (3)

Note: This is Baba’s special guideline which is lacking these days in the society. All should understand they do not exist alone, by themselves, in isolation. With collective spirit, all have to work together. By that way, many works can be done for the great cause, by His grace.

References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 4, Plants, Animals and Human Beings
2. Namah Shivaya Shantaya: Disc 8
3. Namámi Krśńasundaram, Disc: 26


== Section: Important Teaching ==

How to overcome avidya maya

Ananda Marga ideology states, "The avidyá force declares war on those whose desire or inclination is towards vidyá; this gives rise to a hostile tendency in the recesses of their minds, against which they have to struggle. At home the husband, wife or the other members of the family become dissatisfied with them, and create various obstacles. In the field of their activities the opportunities arise for depravity, meanness, bribes etc., and they have to maintain their self-control. The locusts of desires come swarming in to destroy the very bud of their sádhaná. So they must carefully avoid such temptations for their own safety. But those whose movement is truly towards vidyá, who are determined to follow the path of vidyá by sacrificing their all, will eventually become immune to all obstacles. No amount of scornful taunts or diatribes will be able to check their lightning speed. They will emerge victorious, weathering and defying all storms, and eventually stand firm and erect like the Himalayas; and the storms and squalls will rebound back in disappointment."

"When the Sádhaka or the spiritual aspirant will stand untrammelled and resolute, with the courage of his conviction, and self-confidence, all snags and dangers will gradually wither away – will timidly disappear from his path...Obstacles are the concomitants of sádhaná, struggling is a good sign. By these obstacles sádhakas can understand that their spiritual practice is on the right track. Spiritual philosophy comes into being only when sádhakas struggling with avidyá’s hindrances, vindicates their move towards Brahma after defeating the base propensities of avidyá by their own intellect and judgment." (1)

References
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 3, Supreme Benevolence and Mundane Pleasure


== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

This Prabhat Samgiit is for 3rd class bhaktas

(Here Sadguru is talking about how master-slave relation is not good.)

“कुछ लोग कहते हैं कि “जीव, परमात्मा का बन्दा है |” बन्दा-वन्दा नहीं है | बन्दा क्या है ? यह पारिवारिक सम्पर्क है | कोई कहते हैं कि—”परमपुरुष का मैं तो दास हूँ |” दास-वास तो नहीं है | दास काहे ? पारिवारिक सम्पर्क है | दास काहे ? दास-मालिक का सम्पर्क नहीं है | गुलाम-मालिक का सम्पर्क नहीं है | विश्व ब्रह्माण्ड की सृष्टि उन्हीं से हुई है | सब उनका है | सब उनके मन में है | तो, तुम जिनके मन के भीतर में हो, तुम तो उन्हीं के हो | और, वे तो तुम्हारे सबसे निकट हैं | एकदम अपने हैं |” (1)
                                   
प्रभात संगीत 4335  जमीं आसमा तुम्हारा, तुम्हारा जहाॅं सारा...
भावार्थ
हे परमपुरुष बाबा! यह धरती और यह विशाल आकाश  तुम्हारा है। यही नहीं पूरा ब्रह्माॅंड तुम्हारी सम्पदा है। तुम सब कुछ के एकमेव स्वामी हो, तुम मेरे सर्वाधिक प्रिय हो। मैं तुम्हारा गुलाम  हूँ, तुम मेरे मालिक हो, मैं तुम्हारे  निर्देशानुसार आगे बढ़ना चाहता हॅूं। तुम मेरे सब कुछ हो ।

बाबा!! तुम सभी शक्तियों के श्रेात हो, जो कुछ भी सूर्य में  शक्ति है वह तुम से ही आती है, जो कुछ भी सुगंध फूलों के बगीचे में  है, वह तुम्हारी ही है । तुम वह परमसत्ता हो जो मेरे हृदय में रहती है, तुम मेरे हृदय के तारे हो।

हे परमपुरुष बाबा! तुम मेरे सुख और दुख दोनों में  समान रूप से हमेशा साथ  रहते हो। तुम मेरी आत्माकी वेदी पर शोभायमान  हो । तुम्हारे याद में मेरी आॅंखें आँसू बहाती हैं।

बाबा! तुम सबकुछ के नियंत्रक हो । बाबा! ,पूरा दृश्य और अदृश्य  ब्रह्माॅंड तुम्हारा है, तुम मेरे हो और मैं तुम्हारा। 

Reference
1. 11/24/79 Delhi, V16-16]


== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read
How they get off course
Unique quality of mind
When stories undermine pracara






Navigating challenging times + 3 more

Baba
Navigating challenging times

Namaskar,

In the 1970's when Baba was in jail, in Patna, then one margii went to see Baba inside the jail. And Baba asked, "How is it going on?" The simple margii replied innocently, "Baba, there is so much negative propaganda. Nobody is listening these days to our call."

Then Baba smiled and told the margii, "Your only duty is to be strict in Sixteen Points. As much as you are strict in Sixteen Points, you will get direct guidelines and inner inspiration from Parama Purusa to move forward. If you are loose or lax in Sixteen Points, then you will lose the inspiration to do pracara. Even you will lose the inspiration to do anything, i.e. any type of social service."
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba continued, "So the best thing is to be strict in Sixteen Points. Do not allow any negativity to enter into your mind. Thinking about negative things, the mind will only become more depressed. The duty of sadhakas is to keep the eyes fixed on the Goal. The goal is Parama Purusa."

So in this way Baba has steered everyone's vision toward the path of dharma—toward the ultimate Goal.


How to overcome dilemma & confusion


Usually when there is a dilemma (dvidha’) or confusion (dvandva) about what to do and what not to do, initially people get flustered and frustrated. In that confused state, most of the time what they do exacerbates the situation and creates more problems.

Because the general tendency of the human mind is to run toward external objects and lowly desires such as money, name and fame, or power etc. This is the common temptation. Human beings have crossed thousands and thousands of animal lives in which they were only dominated by basic propensities—animal instincts. So those lower, debased propensities are very familiar whereas higher values are not. And the supreme veracity and dharmic teachings do not reflect in the mind until the mental plate is cleaned.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

So only when Sixteen Points is practiced more and more, only then does dharma become a force in the mind. Only then does the mind become more pinnacled and pointed. Whatever human beings do in that condition is very meaningful and valuable—and they will not harm anyone. Whereas if one is not following dharma then they will not only harm others but themselves also. So following Sixteen Points means following dharma and by that way there are benefits in all aspects of life.


Where to fix our eyes


In various discourses, Baba guides us that our eyes should be fixed on Parama Purusa. Inviting unnecessary thoughts and filling the mind in that manner is very detrimental. If anyone fails to keep their eyes on the Polestar, then on a dark night that person will certainly lose the path. So the eyes should be fixed on the Goal. And that Goal is Parama Purusa—none else.

The final takeaway and key guideline is to firmly adhere to Baba’s below formula:
(a) As sadhakas our only duty is to be strict in Sixteen Points.
(b) To the degree we are strict in Sixteen Points, we will get direct guidelines and inner inspiration from Parama Purusa, and we will have a clear path forward, unencumbered by doubt, confusion, or uncertainty.
(c) In contrast, if someone is negligent and insincere in Sixteen Points, they will completely lose all inspiration to do pracara. Not only that, one will lose the motivation and inspiration to do any type of social service.

Namaskar,
In Him
Kaosikii

~ Related teachings ~

Ananda Marga philosophy states: "Now to materialize any principle or ideology, one requires firmness, especially those who provide leadership to society, those who are the pioneers, the vanguard of a new movement. “We must keep the goal fixed before us, and keep moving towards the goal. We shall never deviate from our goal, whatever the obstacles or hindrances in the way. Once we start moving, we shall never stop or look back”." (1)

Ananda Vanii states, “The movement and the path, the means and the chariot are all inseparably linked. The path is not always easily accessible, smooth and littered with flower petals; nor is it always inaccessible, thorny and covered with stones. One must keep one’s eye fixed on the Goal. This Goal provides inspiration, supplies the means for forward movement and makes the little lamps of life infinitely effulgent. Since eternity this very Goal has provided and is providing inspiration to all and will continue to do so in future; and by revitalising the life-force as if with a flow of water, it will make the earth ever full of sweetness, and at the same time it will keep the triumphant flag of humanity flying on top of the golden mountain peak. So let one’s vision be fixed on the goal. There is no necessity to think of anything else.” (2)

Parama Purusa is our Goal. And the only way to keep the eyes fixed on the Goal is by strictly adhering to Sixteen Points. That is the path of our forward movement. And that is the way Baba directs us that we should proceed.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Vanii says, "Be firm on sixteen points. Unite all the righteous forces. All the tall talks of the evil forces will be silenced." (3)


What to do in this time


So in this organisational crisis and transitional period which we are facing today, our duty is to be more and more strict in 16 points. By that way, inner strength will develop. And Baba will guide us how to carry out His mission; Baba will make us the medium to execute His work. So when our organisation is struggling and stuck during a period of pause, then we should see the situation more again carefully and grab hold of Baba's teachings.

Baba says, "Pause means the gathering of momentum for speed in the subsequent phase. If one closely watches the effect of speed on a particular community or the entire humanity, one sees that generally people eulogize the period of speed. However we cannot afford to ignore the state of pause, because by judging what the previous state of pause was like, we can discern the speed of the next phase." (4)


Optimism is life


So this pause period does not mean frustration for one and all. Rather big training is going on and society is preparing to move forward in the proper direction.

Baba says, "There are some people who are pessimistic. They say that the society around us is very bleak, that it has no expression of vitality and that is seems that everyone is in deep slumber. Pessimists say this because they have never made any detailed study of human history, nor do they care to. Had they done so, they would certainly be optimistic, because if they had looked carefully at the symptoms of pause, they would have realise that significant preparations were being made for the subsequent phase of speed. So under no circumstances should human beings be pessimistic. That is why I am always an incorrigible optimist, because I know that optimism is life." (5)


“I am also with you”


About transitional periods Baba guides us in the following way:

Baba says, "In the present day also, you can see for yourself how the social movement is grinding to a halt. When social progress loses its velocity it is called 'yugasandhi' (transitional period) in Sam'skrta. You have all been born in such a transitional period and have assembled here today. In the future, the honest and virtuous people of the society will respond to Your call and will unite. The same polarization is taking place now as occurred in the past: the honest people are with you and will remain with you; the dishonest people will oppose you now and will continue their efforts to block your progress in future. Whenever there is a war between dharma and adharma, you are sure to be victorious. You are not alone-- dharma is with you, the benevolent intellect is with you, and I am also with you." (6)


Human unity is purely an ideological unity


As we all know, without unity and the development of one human society, nothing will be achieved. So now samghe shakti, unity is needed. And that must first be established within our own organisation. The best way to achieve this is to follow Baba. And following Baba, means adhering to His divine guidelines.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Human unity is purely an ideological unity, which means unity in the psychic sphere. Where there is psychic unity, physical unity will also occur. In the realm of unity, unity is always psychic – ideological unity means unity in the subtlest level of the mind. However, psychic or ideological unity may be affected if we encourage the exploitation of one group by another. So to avoid this there should not be any scope for exploitation [groupism] in society." (7)

References
1. Namah Shivaya Shantaya, Shiva – Both Severe and Tender (Discourse 2)
2. Ananda Vanii #67
3. Ananda Vanii #44
4. Prout in a Nutshell - 7, Dynamicity and Staticity
5. Prout in a Nutshell - 7, Dynamicity and Staticity
6. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, The Transitional Period
7. Prout in a Nutshell - 3, 'Talks on Prout'

Plagiary?

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

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

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

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

This will be treated as the standard protocol.



*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==


You save me always

“Tumi ámár práńer pradiip, tumi áshár álo…” (Prabhat Samgiita #3892)

Purport: 

O’ Parama Purusa, You are the lamp of my life. You are the source of all my vitality and inspiration. You are my only ray of hope. Without You, there is only doubt and confusion. Baba, You are my everything. With love and affection, You always gaze upon me with Your unblinking stare, watching my each and every action: my bad ones as well as my good ones. 

O’ Parama Purusa, in my life, all of the happiness, dissatisfactions, sorrows and disappointments, blissful collyrium of my eyes, and raining and wailing of tears vibrate, resonate, and reverberate in You. You know and feel everything that I experience. You know me better than I know myself. 

O’ Lord, on the shore of life, sitting alone when I ponder "who is there as my own", then on my mala of oyster shells You pour endless pearls. You shower Your causeless karuna. Baba, You are my lifeboat. You save me in all circumstances and guide me how to proceed. 

Baba, I surrender at Your lotus feet…


== Section: Important Teaching ==

Just 4 times food


Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “There are many people who are otherwise good but have no control over the food they eat. It is very important that whatever one gets should not be taken indiscriminately; rather, there should be control over food, and at the same time it should be nutritious.” (1)

Note: All the rules given in Ananda Marga teachings are rational and scientific. They are firmly grounded in logic and the spirit of welfare. With regards to the above conduct rule, people have a strong inclination or weakness for food. For instance, even if a person has just taken a full belly of food, but if they see something that entices them then they will eat it. But eating food in an untimely way - i.e. when one is not hungry - ruins one’s digestion and eventually leads to numerous diseases. To help and protect our Wts from such weakness, Baba has given the rule that they may eat only four times in any 24-hour period. By this rule, Baba is ensuring that there will be a sufficient gap in between meals. That helps in digestion and keeps the system strong. So that is why our Wts are only allowed to eat four times per day. 

Then there is the matter of only eating four items in a given meal. Here again this rule was given for the welfare of our Wts. In some places huge feasts are commonplace where 50 - 100 food items are available at a single sitting. And in the temples, the Lord must be fed 56 items of fresh food at every meal. The point is that in the religious traditions, feasting is front and center. But that leads to health issues and one’s premature demise. Combining different types of food is harmful to the body as some foods get digested by alkaline juices and other items by acid. If one eats a huge variety of food at one meal then one is far more likely to combine foods that are not complementary to one another, thereby causing serious problems for the stomach. By restricting the number of foods and following this simple rule, that pitfall is essentially avoided. 

So all the rules and teachings are for our overall well-being and progress. 

The more family people adhere to the rules given for Wts - such as fasting four times per month, or restricting one’s food intake in the above ways, the more they will be benefited. 

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, The Seven Secrets of Success


== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read
How they get off course
Unique quality of mind
When stories undermine pracara






SUBJECTS TOPICS