How party system ruins democracy + 6 more

Baba

How party system ruins democracy

Namaskar,

In the current social milieu, the political landscape is dominated by political parties. Each country has a gamut of political parties. That is the backdrop in today's world arena. In Prout, our stand is entirely different. Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar guides us that the party system is faulty, divisive, and harmful. Throughout His Prout philosophy, Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar has exposed the defects of the party system and provided us with the answer for what should be done.
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Existence of any political / religious group or party is harmful

We should remember that in political parlance, the term 'party' is just a euphemism for 'groupism' where mighty party politicians rigidly cling to their narrow interests: caste, creed, colour, religion, race and racial superiority, etc - for their own political power.

Prout philosophy states, "The problem of how to remain in power is the most important issue of every political party that comes to power in an election." (1)

So political parties are not concerned with human interests nor the public good. That is not their primary aim, nor their secondary aim. Their entire raison-d'etre (reason for being) is just for exploiters to retain their power and tight-fisted grip over the electoral process. Shrii PR Sarkar condemns how in the party / group system, politicians ruthlessly push for (a) their own personal prestige and (b) the agenda and stature of the party/group - blatantly disregarding the welfare of the common citizens.

Prout philosophy states, "It is noticeable that politicians, to further their party [group] interests and to enhance their individual power and position, do not hesitate even to cause suffering to millions of people." (2)

From top to bottom, the political parties are characterised by extreme selfishness and the lust for power - completely devoid of any benevolent motive. All that said, political parties are not of the same quality either, some are significantly worse than others. 
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Detrimental effects of party/group system

Here are a few more of the many reasons why Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar warns us about the inherent dangers & dealings of political parties.

(a) In the party oriented system, due to extreme political propaganda, the common people get befooled into voting 'the party / group line' - and not for the quality of the individual. In result, all sorts of unqualified people get voted into office.
(b) Party / group leaders do not stand on their own individual merit and abilities; instead, they rely on the political muscle and reputation of the party, thereby enabling undeserving candidates to come into the fore.
(c) As the world has witnessed, from democracies to socialist and communist regimes, all such political groupings have committed countless wrongs and inflicted untold injustices using the party / group system.

These are some of the many factors at play in the party / group system.

Party / group system devours honest candidates

In truth, throughout the society, many qualified individuals are interested in working for the well-being of the common folk, but in the party system such independent candidates never get the opportunity to contest elections. Instead, the party/group just bulls their own member(s) into the chair.

Prout philosophy states, "Rich and influential people can compel other candidates, by financial inducements or intimidation, to withdraw their nomination papers." (3)

In such a dark political climate, the party / group system shuts down any attempt by individuals to run for office. Those independent candidates cannot compete against the massive economico-political machinery of the top, ruling parties.
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As shown, 'rule of the people' is the stated slogan of the top democracies. But upon closer look we see something else going on. Because in the present world order, each and every democracy is overrun by the existence of political parties - x party, y party, z party etc. So the common people - the citizens - never truly get the opportunity to elect an individual leader to represent them, but rather get stuck with a party/group puppet - a mere political tool of xyz party etc.

Prout philosophy states, "In the name of forming a democratic government, different political and communal parties throw their hats into the election ring..[ultimately] parties are installed in power which go against the interests of the people." (4)

Thus the political parties just burst onto the scene and crush the hopes and aspirations of the general populace. With the existence of the party system, there is no relief in sight - not in any direction. Democracy is supposedly 'of the people, by the people, for the people'; but, in actuality it is 'of the party/group, by the party, for the party'. That is the hard reality of the day.

Vote for deserving candidates, not lamppost / group stooge

In response to all the political chaos and failures of the party / group system, Prout offers the ultimate solution. Prout's main platform is to create an environment where individual candidates, not parties, abound in the political scene. And the best person - the one carrying the banner of neo-humanism - should be supported.

Prout philosophy states, "People should cast their votes for deserving human beings - not for the lamppost [i.e. political tool] holding the party ticket." (5)

In such an open atmosphere not choked by the party / group system, the people are to elect a candidate based on their formidable credentials and worthy qualifications. Since the party system itself is the root cause of so much socio-political angst and manipulation, then, according to Prout, there should not be any party system. It should be summarily eradicated.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
Verily, Prout does not support the existence of any political party / group. When there are no political parties, then the qualities and characteristics of the individual candidates become more visible. In that case, the educated voters will be able to discern who is who and what is what. That means candidates will have to stand on their own merit - unable to hide under the party umbrella.

In our Prout system, devoid of political parties and under the watchful eye of moralists and an increasingly educated public, more and more qualified candidates will get an opportunity in the political field. And the best one should be selected. Just as dinosaurs disappeared from this earth, same will be the fate of these outdated political parties. And in the new era of Prout, we will see the rise of qualified candidates-- i.e. sadvipras - to lead the people.

Conclusion

Prout philosophy states, "Today or tomorrow the entire world will accept PROUT as the only panacea for all of the world's mundane and supramundane ailments. There is no alternative." (6)

So party politics / factions / groups undermine the very fabric of society where unqualified people get the chair and overlook, or just give lip service to, the well-being of society. From the very start, to the middle, to the end, such parties are wholly committed to their narrow agenda inside AMPS and throughout the society-at-large. Under the banner of neo-humanism and Prout, our human society will be enabled to flourish. The day is fast approaching.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Dharma
(David Matthews)

~ In-depth study ~

Whether near or far, it is blatantly evident how the party system just manipulates the field of politics and stands in the way of social progress. If we look at the politics in any country, this theory applies universally. In any democracy that features the party / group system, the naive and common people have no choice but to elect the party, not the person. Because in every local or national election the people have no practical choice but to vote either: x party or y party. One leader is propped up by each party, and, by hook or by crook, the party / group works to get that fellow into the office.
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See-saw nature of political party system

Basically it is just a negative seesaw battle between one party and the other - the x party and the y party. Truly qualified people outside the party system cannot enter onto the stage. So the party just props up and masquerades their own unseemly candidate. In that way certain political animals come into the limelight as someone great, even though they are propped up by others, only to get yanked down when their underhanded dealings and blatant lies get exposed. Then, in reaction the public gets fed up but with nowhere else to turn they blindly resort to the other political party to bring some relief. In this manner, the ball bounces back and forth in the democratic framework of any country. And this type of case scenario is not limited to any region, but is the standard wherever party politics is in vogue.

Each party, whether x party, y party, or z party etc, looks to capitalise on the other's black spots, simultaneously keeping the political runway clear of any other candidates. This is the seesaw battle of party / group politics - around the globe the same or worse is happening in each and every party system. Never can a proper, independent candidate reach to the chair when the party system is dominating the scene.
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Dogma: party affiliation tops individual ability

Prout philosophy guides us, "Party politics is one of the factors which stands, or tries to stand, in the way of human unity. In fact party politics is even more dangerous than disease-causing germs. In party politics all the refined attributes of the human mind, such as simplicity and the spirit of service, slowly but surely get totally destroyed. Party affiliation commands more respect than individual ability; service to self, not service to people, is the main motto; ministerial office, rather than human welfare, is considered superior; and mass deception, political somersaults, etc., are most common phenomena." (7)

Prout philosophy guides us, "Instead of rectifying themselves, politicians want to accomplish everything through their grandiloquence. By identifying the weaknesses in others and by resorting to bombastic language, they incite one section of people against another so that they can usurp the seat of power and cling to it. Human beings will have to remain vigilant against persons of this type." (8)

Prout philosophy guides us, "Politicians want to poke their noses into every aspect of life: social, religious, educational, literary, etc. Under the hypnotic spell of power, politicians remain oblivious of the fact that experience and wisdom in various spheres of life cannot be acquired by merely mouthing high-sounding slogans from public platforms." (9)

Nowadays, democracies invariably get bound up in the party / group system. On the surface, they claim to be something else but we should examine how far this is accurate or not. With their own chicanery, party leaders try to convince the electorate that democracy is run and guided by the people.

Prout philosophy states, "According to the definition in vogue today, democracy is defined as the government of the people, by the people and for the people." (10)

But, in truth, such democracies are not run by the people for the people, they are run by the party for the party.

Tricky issue

Prout philosophy says, “It is possible in a democratic government that the members or the elected representatives comprise more than fifty percent of the total number of candidates winning at the hustings while the total votes secured by their party may be less than fifty per cent. In such a condition the government is said to be of a majority party, but in reality it is the government of a particular minority party. As the government is formed by a particular party the opinion of another party or other parties is not respected in the legislature. Though all parties participate in passing legislation, bill are passed according to the wishes of the party that is in the majority. When acts are passed by a particular party, that party often derives benefit from the enacted law while the people at large do not derive much benefit from it at all.” (11)


How to fix democracy

Prout philosophy states, “Now let us discuss some reforms to democracy. Democracy cannot succeed in countries where people are illiterate, immoral, or backward. Countries like England, the USA and France are suitable for democracy, but even these countries need to introduce some reforms.

First, legislators in the states and at the centre should be elected on the recommendations of the people at large. At the time of electing representatives the people should pay heed to their education, moral standard and sacrifice for the society etc. If the representatives are elected keeping in view these factors, they will not be guided by party interests but by collective interests. In their minds the interests of the entire human race and society will dominate, and not any class interests. They will be able to enact laws keeping in mind the problems of all and sundry, thereby accelerating the speed of social reconstruction. Their impartial service will bring happiness to all.

The voting rights should be vested in educated persons who have political consciousness and awareness of people’s problems. Age should not be a bar to voting right. If illiterate people are given voting rights there is the possibility of antisocial and incompetent representatives being elected.

To provide a fearless and independent ambience to the administration, the secretariat should be kept free from pressures from the cabinet. The cabinet should confine itself to legislation, the passage and passing of the budget, the implementation of its plans and policies, defense etc. The power of ministers should remain confined to the parliament and they should not poke their nose into the workings of the secretariat. The chief secretary should not be under the president or the prime minister but should act independently as the executive head. All the secretaries should work under the chief secretary. Free from cabinet pressures, every department will serve the people well.

In the present system the judiciary functions under a cabinet minister, and pressure from the minister may impair its independent functioning. To remove this defect and to ensure impartial justice, the judiciary should have the right to function independently. In no case should the chief justice be treated as inferior to the president or the prime minister. Only moralists and honest persons should be installed on the hallowed seat of justice. If people fail to keep this issue under their close scrutiny, injustice will take the place of justice.

[[Finally, for the proper utilization of the nation’s revenue and to ensure that every paisa is spent on building up the nation, it is extremely important that the audit branch as well be independent. The auditor general should be independent of the president. Only the independence of the auditor general can ensure that this branch will be able to fearlessly check the accounts of every other branch. Thus it should be a separate administrative branch of government, and independent of the party holding a majority.

All the four branches mentioned above should be given the scope to function independently. Thus there will be four compartments. No compartment will function under another.]]

But in such a situation there is still the possibility of injustice and exploitation. So to supervise or monitor the function of all these compartments, the benevolent dictatorship of the board of Sadvipras is required so that spirituality will reign supreme.” (12)

References
1. Proutist Economics, Economic Exploitation of Bengal
2. Problems of the Day, Point #29
3. Problems of the Day, Point #33
4. Prout in a Nutshell - 14, Compartmentalized Democracy
5. Problems of the Day, Point #27
6. Prout in a Nutshell - 17, The Significance of Language
7. Problems of the Day, Point #26
8. Problems of the Day, Point #26
9. Problems of the Day, Point #26
10. Prout in a Nutshell - 14, Compartmentalized Democracy
11. Prout in a Nutshell - 14, Compartmentalized Democracy
12. Prout in a Nutshell - 14, Compartmentalized Democracy

*        *        *

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 ==

While doing social service

Note: The following teaching contains two ideas that demand our attention. 

#1: When serving others by doing shudrocita seva, one should not desire their appreciation, thanks, or kind words. And one should not become displeased if those persons do not express their gratitude. One should feel happy to have been given the opportunity to serve Narayan in the form of a suffering person. 

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Another way to give the public their due respect is to serve them properly….Very likely it may so happen that you may go on attending on him, but he does not pay any heed to your single utterance or you do not get any chance to put a word to him, but you need not be sorry for that, because (Náráyan) in human form has accepted, taking your service and this much is your gain. Is it a less important gain?” (1)

The overall idea and greater sense is that one is fully welcome to propagate AM ideals when rendering social service, but one must never (a) make a show of doing social service, (b) indulge in fake social service, (c) promote false claims about their social service work, (d) exaggerate the extent of their service work, or (e) succumb to propaganda in the name of service. 

  
Way to convince non-margiis

#2: When trying to convince others about the ideals of Ananda Marga, if the next person is not understanding then best is to give an example from various local scriptures etc. Try to relate that example with Ananda Marga ideology. It is just like how in India you may cite the Gita, Ramayana, or the Vedas, and in Muslim countries you may give an example from the Koran, or for Christians one may cite the Bible. By this way you will be able to teach them Ananda Marga philosophy. The formula is to start teaching them from the point that they already know, and guide them into new realms of knowledge.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “The verbal comment on the speeches of others does not impress the people so much as the printed words of a book do, more so if those words are confirmed directly or indirectly by any religious scripture.” (2)

References
1. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva), Point #4 - Utsava
2. Táttvika Diipiká (Dvitiiya Parva), Point #4 - Utsava

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Why so-called love marriages fail?

Ananda Marga ideology says, “Now when a man gets the chance to enjoy the physico-psychic pleasures, he doesn’t find any interest in physical pleasure, because physical pleasure is not only crude in quality, but also of very temporary nature. It lasts for a short span. On the psychic level, man is the dominating living being. He does something new, he wants to do something new, to get more psychic pleasures, and he invents so many things and engages himself in psychic pursuits. These things cannot be done by animals or even by other developed creatures, and here lies the speciality of human beings.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 12, Beyond Temporary Experience

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Cardiovascular exercise needed

Ananda Marga Yogic Treatments says, "Pure, fresh air has the power to cure diseases. It is advisable to breathe in as fully as possible, because when we do so, the air gets an opportunity to penetrate the lungs completely. It is better to take a walk in the fresh air than to ride a vehicle. If the body does not work up a sufficient sweat, then you should know that you have not taken the air properly." (1)

Everyone is aware that Baba is teaching us to be vigilant about walking every morning and evening, invariably. 

Reference:
1. Yogic Treatments, Appendix, Point E

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Can only serve if established in sadhana

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "You have to bring about your own spiritual salvation. If one does not try for one's own salvation, if one does not do spiritual practice, one can never serve society. It will be totally impossible." (1)

Note: There are a few who think that any type of mundane social activist, who is not even God-oriented, can be an ideal Prout leader. Some get enamoured with the popularity and tall talks of some so-called orators. In their naïveté they think that the person at the podium can bring lead society forward and establish Prout etc.

However, in Baba's above teaching, He clearly guides us that only those deeply involved in sadhana and equipped with the force of spirituality can provide the soothing balm to the exploited humanity. Without spirituality one can never render true service to society. Hence being on the path of sadhana is an essential requisite for serving the world.

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 24, Incantation and Human Progress

== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

मेरा यही गर्व है कि तुम मेरे हो, और मैं तुम्हारा हूँ ।

प्रभात सँगीत 472 तुमि आमारे चाओ ना इहा जानी

भावार्थ
हेे परमपुरुष, मैं तुम्हे बहुत प्यार करता हूँ,  और चाहता हूँ  कि तुम मेरे निकट आ जाओ, इसलिये मैने अपने हृदय में  तुम्हारे लिये एक मंच तैयार कर लिया है, फिर भी तुम नहीं आ रहे हो, अतः अब यह सोचने को विवश  हूँ  कि तुम मुझे सचमुच प्यार नहीं करते। फिर भी निराश  होकर एक दूर की आशा  बनी है कि शायद भूल से ही मेरी ओर आ जाओ। बाबा, मैं बड़ी ही  आशाऔर पूर्वानुमान से तुम्हारे आने की प्रतीक्षा में दिन और घंटे गिन रहा हूँ ।

हेे परमपुरुष, तुम्हारे आगमन की तैयारी में मैंने स्वागत की सभी चीजें जुटा ली हैं। भव्य स्वागत के लिये अर्पण सामग्री को थाल में सजा लिया है। मैंने अपने हृदय के प्यार से भरकर अनेक फूलों को एक माला में पिरो लिया है, और कमरे को अपने हृदय की मधुर भावनाओं और प्यार के साथ सुगंधित चंदन की महक से भलीभाॅंति सजा लिया है। मेरे बाबा! यह सब व्यवस्थायें केवल तुम्हारे लिये हैं। मैं चैबीसों घंटे जाग रहा हूँ और तुम्हारी ही प्रतीक्षा में दिन रात गुजार रहा हूँ ।

हेे परमपुरुष, बाबा मैं स्थायी रूपसे तुम्हारे दिव्य गुणों और अनन्त विषेशताओं  को याद करता हूँ , तुम साक्षात् कृपा ही हो, तुम मुक्तिदाता हो, तुम नारायण हो। यह सोचकर कि तुम मेरे हो और मेरे हृदय में रहते हो, मुझे गर्व होता है। मेरा यही गर्व है कि तुम मेरे हो, और मैं तुम्हारा हूँ । बाबा! मैं तुम्हारे आगमन के रास्ते के किनारे उत्सुकता पूर्वक केवल इस भावना से प्रतीक्षा कर रहा हूँ  कि कब तुम्हें पाऊं और अपना सबकुछ तुम्हारे चरण कमलों में समर्पित कर दूं।

बाबा! कृपा करके मेरे हृदय में आओ ।

== Section 4: Links ==

Postings to Read

Baba story: are you reading AM books?

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/10/story-my-pc-with-baba-3-more.html

Prout on education & crime

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2018/04/widespread-violence-remedy.html

Prout's strategy to avert ecological catastrophes

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/06/how-to-stop-man-made-disasters-2-more.html

Science of essential AM practice

• https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/12/asana-longevity-all-around-health.html

Baba story: Are you reading AM books? + 3 more

Baba

Baba story: Are you reading AM books?

Namaskar,

Here begins the story recounted by one margii…

By Baba's grace, I was initiated in 1963. A few years later in 1966, DMC was held in Nagpur. At the time, due to His pull of bhakti, I had a very strong desire to have Baba's personal contact. Numerous margiis had told me that Baba knows everything but I wanted to have my own first-hand experience of this. So this is what I planned to do: I decided that when Baba asks me anything, I will not answer until He asks me the question in my mother tongue. That was my plan. And I did not tell anybody about this. By that way I would be confirmed that Baba knows my thoughts and mother tongue.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


What happened in my PC?

As per the system, I waited in line for PC (personal contact). When my turn came, I entered Baba's room and immediately did sastaunga pranam. After a short while, I heard Baba say in a soft voice, "Get up, get up."

I got up and stood before Baba.

Baba asked me, "What is your name?"

I kept quiet because He spoke in English, not my mother tongue. That was my plan so I did not say anything. I just stood there. Although I understood English, I was waiting for Baba to speak to me in my mother tongue. That is why I was not responding. Then Baba asked me other questions - all in English. Still I did not respond. I continued to remain quiet.

Baba started smiling. Then in a very gracious and sweet way He began asking me those same questions in my mother tongue (Bundel Khandi). We talked together for a few minutes. I was so happy.

While in His presence, I was thinking, "Yes, Baba indeed knows everything. He spoke in my mother tongue which is not widely known; and, He understood my desire without my saying anything."  I also realised that those things about myself which only I knew and no one else knew, Baba also knew.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Baba asks, "Are you reading AM books?"

On that same occasion of PC, Baba pointed out many of my mistakes, i.e. times I failed to adhere to Ananda Marga conduct rules. In follow-up, Baba inquired, "Are you reading Ananda Marga books?"

I replied, "No, Baba."

Then Baba told, It is very important to read our Ananda Marga books and study the discourses in order to practice those points on a day-to-day basis. Otherwise you will not know about those things, in which case how will you follow them in your practical life.

Previously, I was thinking just the opposite. I had heard from many sadhakas that bhakti is everything. So I had formed a very negative opinion about jinana (knowledge) and thought that there was no need to review and study Ananda Marga books. Because of this defective mentality, I had no idea about those conduct rules and teachings; therefore, Baba had to point out my mistakes.

Baba then explained, "It takes a lot of effort to bring these books in printed form. So much time and energy are invested, yet you are not reading them. That is why you do not even know the basic dos and don'ts of life."

At that point, I realised that reading Ananda Marga books is highly important and mentally I took the firm determination to study all of the Ananda Marga literature. Due to my lack of knowledge of Ananda Marga ideals and conduct, I was not aware about right and wrong, virtue and vice, as described in various publications and literature. I was not following those codes properly and thus committed sin and acquired negative samsakaras. For the requital of my sins, Baba punished me for my wrongdoings, and I accepted. Afterwards, I felt completely light and blissful, by His grace.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Conclusion

Reading Ananda Marga books is invaluable and necessary for every Ananda Margii. Due to a lack of knowledge of Ananda Marga ideals, some margiis and Wts preach dogma unknowingly.

Namaskar,
At His lotus feet,
Mahadeva

~ In-depth study ~

Relation with Sadguru

Baba then asked me, "Who is your father?"

I replied that …. is my father.

Baba told me, "Mr.… is your worldly father.”

Baba continued, “I am asking about your spiritual Father.”

Hearing this, I remained quiet; I did not know the answer.

Then after some time, Baba smiled and blessed: “I am your Father - not only for this life but up to eternity."

Then Baba graced me and I felt His sweet touch in every cell and pore of my existence. Still today I cannot forget His proximity, guidance, and love. Even now when I think about this it gives me goosebumps. Since that time I became very regular in studying Baba's books so I could best adhere to and propagate the principles of Ananda Marga. I also realised that those things about me which only I knew and no one else knew, Baba also knew. Indeed Baba knows everything and He loves me very much.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Baba is still present

A few people think that Baba is the subject of history and believe they lost their opportunity to communicate with Him directly or personally. They think that the opportunity to be with Baba has passed. Indeed such persons feel that the privilege is gone and Baba is no longer accessible. They think that they cannot have His proximity and can only talk about His greatness. Thinking thus, they feel sad. Those who think in such a manner are mistaken. They could not realise that Baba is Parama Purusa and He remains with everyone always.

As Baba is Parama Purusa - His existence is beyond time. Now, even in this very moment, you can have His grace and serve Him. You can do anything that bhaktas have done in the past. So one should not feel and say with a deep sigh that, "Those days are gone and it is now impossible to have His close proximity." Instead, remember that Baba is always with you - now, in the future, always.

Bhaktas realise this divine truth and others do not. If you want to say something to Him then say it mentally - there is no need even for vocal chords. If you say or ask mentally, He listens. His ears are ready to listen. If you want to offer something, His hand is ready to receive. If you want to do pranam - go ahead. He will receive your pranam.

In all the ways, Baba is present with you because Baba is that eternal Divine Entity, Parama Purusa.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Regarding all these bhavas and their importance in the life of a bhakta, Baba has beautifully written about and described them in Namami Krsnasundaram.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Brahma, the author of this vast cosmic imagination moves everywhere within the universe, His vast Macropsychic arena, with His mental feet. He catches all the objects of this universe with His all-pervasive mental hands. He is the intellect, the intuition and the witnessing faculty of the innumerable created objects and hence we can say that He has His all-pervasive mental heads. Similarly, as the witness of all the macropsychic entities, He has innumerable mental eyes; and to hear their words, spoken or secret, and every loud or soft sound, He has His all-pervasive ears. He exists surrounding all objects with His own identity. You can keep nothing secret or private from Him - He knows more about you than you know about yourself. Behind all His pervasive faculties of knowing, understanding and hearing lies His Macropsychic stance." (1)

Note: The above is the first-hand account of Shrii Vrajbasi Lal from Bhopal (MP) whereby he recounts his PC with Baba.

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - 6, Microcosm and Macrocosm

Plagiary?

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

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

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

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

This will be treated as the standard protocol.

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Cause of useless dreams

Ananda Marga ideology states, "When certain impressions perceived by the sense organs, agitate the conscious mind and sensory or material thoughts are thereby vehemently awakened in the conscious mind, the nervous system, the crude receptacle of the Kámamaya Kośa and the mind itself becomes unsteady and restless. This leaves an impression on the cells that is short-lived or long-lasting depending on the degree of its intensity. Sometimes even a significant impression being compelled to give way to a newer one under the impact of some other sense-agitation or restlessness, loses its previously acquired permanence. In the sleep state, if a person's nerve-tissues are agitated due to some physical cause, often either as the result of this or on account of cerebral heat caused by some vehement thinking, the nerve cells also become tired and disturbed. Such agitations give rise in the mental sphere to desires similar to those impressions, accumulated in the nerve-cells. Thus the agitated citta (the sub-conscious mind) accepts as real the stream of thoughts arising from one or more such impressions. The crude organs having stopped functioning, the identical desire arising from the previously acquired desire, do not then seem to be imaginary but appear to be quite real. Such dreams often do not come true, for these are actually pure imaginations or a mere stringing together of different disjointed thoughts, a confused or inconsistent dream. Only those whose nerve tissues have become weak due to some ailments of the brain or head or to some protracted illness, or those whose digestive system is malfunctioning, generally experience such confused dreams, which we may call Sensual Dreams. These dreams, as I have already said, are the true reproduction of previously imagined objects or the disjointed expressions of previous thoughts. Excessive eating also gives rise to such dreams in a person. Those who have purity of thoughts and also restraint over their diet, are generally less susceptible to such dreams. Such dreams never occur during [deep] sleep.” (1)

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 5

== Section: More on plagiary ==

Please read and convey this to story thieves

Namaskar,

Some thieves have been (a) stealing Baba stories from this network, (b) posing that it was their original writing (c) and printing in their publications, magazines, or ​ posting it to their Facebook account, or What's App, blog, Google +, Tumbler, or any other media profiles etc. This type of blatant thievery / plagiarism discourages bhaktas from writing new stories. Because those bhaktas think someone is going to steal their work. The fault here lies with only a few select people.

 Yet, even after repeated warnings they continue to indulge in stealing stories whenever the opportunity arises. They refuse to write new stories. Such lowly thieves don't care about yama and niyama, Sixteen Points, or the code of asteya (non-stealing). In DMS and large gatherings etc, such story thieves would steal others belongings and chapels (sandals) as well. You might have encountered this. They wait for large gatherings and procure shoes and chapels for the whole year. By this way they become shoe thieves. And others suffer. This especially happens at Ananda Nagar or any large Ananda Marga gathering, whenever the opportunity arises.

The tragic outcome is that there are thousands of bhaktas who have stories to tell but there is a dearth of writers. Yet time marches on, and sadly those bhaktas will leave this world and their stories will be gone forever.

Our humble request then is to be creative and write new stories. The sole motivation is to publish the maximum amount of Baba stories. Everyone should work hard and try to contribute original material in this respect. All unpublished stories should be written.

In addition, by following this code then fake stories will not be circulated as everyone will be responsible for demonstrating the authenticity of each story.

Thank you for abiding by this ethic and code that is both today's international standard as well as Baba's given system. Again, it is our formal request not to plagiarise this story or any published writing on this network.

So please do not circulate any letter or story letter on any other network without keeping the full and complete letter including the header, signature, and all related notes and references. In addition, it would be proper to introduce the letter as "Courtesy of Ananda Marga Universal". Then everyone will clearly understand from where you got the letter. This is the accepted standard.

Baba says, "It is not possible to guide others with mere cheap, superficial knowledge, like a half-baked pandit who reads a half-a-dozen books and then spouts a few mouthfuls of grandiloquence, and who has obtained a doctorate by plagiarizing others’ works. " (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 1, The Practice of Art and Literature

== Section 3: Links ==

Upcoming pseudo-culture event: 01 April 

Hurtful humour & pranks

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/06/enjoying-by-harming-others-4-more.html

Degrading tradition: April Fools’ Day 

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/03/why-pranks-should-always-be-condemned-3.html

Postings to Read

Prout on education & crime

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2018/04/widespread-violence-remedy.html

Prout's strategy to avert ecological catastrophes

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/06/how-to-stop-man-made-disasters-2-more.html

Science of essential AM practice

• https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/12/asana-longevity-all-around-health.html

Hurtful humour & pranks + 5 more

Baba

Hurtful humour & pranks

Note: In many western countries, the pseudo-culture event known as April Fools' Day occurs annually on 01 April.

Namaskar,

There are numerous occasions and dealings in materialistic communities that are founded upon degrading tendencies of mind. For instance, Halloween is based on injecting a fear complex wherein little children may even suffer their whole life - scared to death of imaginary ghosts. And the daily grind of capitalism itself encourages greed, sensuality, and selfishness. Likewise, on April Fools’ Day, the aim is to trick or deceive someone so they feel embarrassed, nervous, or ridiculed etc.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The end result is the loss of trust in society whereby people harbor tremendous suspicions towards one another - even between best friends, or husband and wife. This casts a long shadow on humanity because distrust, doubt, fear, and anxiety become dominant. And verily that is why we see so many psychic diseases wherever materialism thrives. In the end, people feel stressed, depressed, lonesome, and helpless.

In materialism: negative propensities flourish

That is why we can say that materialism is the polar opposite of tantra. Materialism stands for the injection of degrading propensities. Sadly, when the mind is overrun by degenerating thoughts then sadhana is not possible, as one will just dwell on those dark thoughts and degrade themselves further. Whereas tantra wholly encourages higher propensities and goads the mind towards Parama Purusa. In tantra, negative propensities do not get scope to grow as each and every engagement and practice in tantra aims at elevating the mind. By this way the mind is well-prepared to do sadhana and reach the Supreme rank.

As far as possible, as Ananda Margiis, we must always follow Sadguru Baba’s divine teachings and goad the mind towards higher pursuits - and never give way to materialistic traditions and daily rituals which erode the human psyche - both individually and collectively. What may seem like harmless and innocuous pranks and expressions etc often serve to undermine one’s well-being. Not only that, such types of pranks are against our sadhana oaths.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

As materialism takes root around us, we should be even more vigilant to hold firm to the traditions of tantra and only encourage those elevating qualities of mind. By this way we will reach the Goal and help others progress as well.

Seeing John’s face sunk in woe

“Hey John, I need to talk to you about something personal. As you know your marriage with Carol has been rocky of late, and our wives are best friends. Well, last night Betsy and Carol had a sit-down chat, and Betsy tells me that Carol is thinking of leaving you and ending the marriage - she will probably pack-up and leave by the end of the month. As a friend, I just felt I needed to tell you this.”

Hearing this, John becomes quite shocked and devastated. Seeing John’s face sunk in woe, an instant later Gary cries out, “April Fools!! I was just kidding - not to worry - Carol still loves you - she tells Betsy that the marriage has gotten much better - but you sure did get fooled!! I had you believing it all - you should have seen the look on your face!!”
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Distrust, doubt, fear, & anxiety is outcome

So the above is yet another example of how the traditions and norms in a materialistic society degrade the mind. The entire premise of the pranks and practical jokes made on April Fools’ Day stem from a sadistic mentality (pishunatá) where one derives pleasure by seeing others suffer - even if it is their good friend.

Of course, those submerged in materialism will justify that, “It was all done in good fun” and “everyone got a good laugh out of it” etc, but the underlying tendency of mind is sadistic and cruel (kruratá).

Conclusion

Ananda Marga philosophy teaches us that our life is dear to us; similarly, the next person’s life is also dear to them. So, as far as possible we should help others, and not create problems in anyone else’s life. But unfortunately pranksters do the exact opposite of the aforesaid idea. Yet they themselves do not like to have pranks played on them; but, still they enjoy playing pranks and putting others in trouble. Those who have such a mentality cannot do sadhana. Human beings should realize their potentiality to provide relief to suffering people. That’s why they never play pranks on others.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
In Him,
Satya

~ In-depth study ~

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “When human beings do sádhaná, the kulakuńd́alinii, an ideative entity, rises upward through the spine. It pierces through cakras one after the other, and simultaneously the thoughts or propensities controlled by their respective cakras are brought under control. As soon as the kulakuńd́alinii pierces the múládhára, svádhiśt́hána and mańipura cakras, it brings under control all the propensities up to and including those of the mańipura cakra. The mańipura is the controlling cakra of ten propensities – shyness, sadistic tendency, envy, staticity, melancholia, peevishness, yearning for acquisition, infatuation, hatred, fear. When after rising and rising the kulakuńd́alinii reaches the sahasrára, it becomes one with Paramashiva. This is the state of liberation.” (1)

We must discourage depraving ones

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Tendencies are of either a degenerating or an exalting nature, that is, they are either of a depraving or an elevating nature. We should encourage the elevating tendencies and discourage the depraving ones. In certain parts of this world, depraving tendencies such as pornography exist. Simply protesting will not stop these things: we will have to do something positive to check it. Such positive action will create a new stir in the human mind. Pornography and other depraving tendencies will be completely discouraged and checked. That will be our course of action. We have to create new literature, new books, new music, new songs… We have to chalk out a programme and act accordingly.” (2)

Ananda Marga ideology states, “In Ananda Marga Sadhana, the method of withdrawing the mind from degrading tendencies, and absorbing oneself in the colour of the Great, is called Pratyáhára Yoga (the yoga of withdrawal) or Varńárghyadána (the offering of colours). All people have a particular attraction for one or another object or activity and as soon as they become attracted to an object, then their minds become coloured with the colour of that object. You can withdraw your mind from the colour of that object and dye yourself in His colour by offering Him the captivating colour of the object that has attracted you: this is the real Pratyáhára Yoga.” (3)

References
1. Discourses on Krsna and the Giita, The Meaning of “Krśńa” in Rája Yoga
2. A Few Problems Solved - 8, The Rule of Rationality
3. Subhasita Samgraha - 3, Vibration, Form and Colour

*        *        *

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 ==

For You only

"Prabhu a'ma'ra priya a'ma'ra, toma'ra tarei a'ma'ra jiivana..." (Prabhat Samgiita #1439)

Purport: 

O’ my Parama Purusa, the Dearest One of my heart, my life is only for You. I live only in the hope of getting You. That is my dream. 

Baba, in the stream of  Your causeless karuńá, each day I am floating closer toward You with rhythm and songs. You alone are the one who fulfils everyone’s desire. 

Your wish is why I exist. I have forgotten all my shyness, hatred, and fear. Baba, O’ my Eternal Shelter, come close into the core of my heart…

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

He does not have occult powers

Ananda Marga ideology says, "For living beings, omniscience (evedaḿ) is certainly a recognized occult power. That is right. But for the Supreme Entity it is not a recognized occult power; He does not get it as a result of cult…To know everything is His nature. That is why He is omniscient." (1) 

Note: The entire creation lies within the mind of Parama Purusa so Parama Purusa sees everything because it is all within His own psychic arena. Whereas human beings acquire knowledge from outside themselves. For humans, knowing something entails the psychic assimilation of external objectivity. According to the definition of the faculty of knowledge, for a person to know something then they must look outside the scope or periphery of their own mind. But with Parama Purusa nothing is outside His mind. That means that He does not 'know' anything per se; rather, He intrinsically sees everything as it is all going on within His own mind.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 5, The Omniscience of the Causal Matrix

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Consequences of sleep & flatulence

Ananda Marga ideology states, “In sleep if the flatulent gas moves upwards on account of stomach trouble or if there is some nervous disturbance, the brain and the sub-conscious mind will become agitated. Our previously imagined or felt objects reappear in our subconscious mind in a disjointed form. This we call a dream. Obviously such a dream is of no consequence. Not only that, the story formed therein will not be well-knit as it consists of merely the re-appearance of the objects, stored in the different parts of the brain. There is yet another type of dream. The Atimánas kośa (supramental mind) is the store-house of all knowledge. At times a premonition of a coming be great happiness or sorrow, which only the omniscient causal frame can visualize, is created during deep slumber in the subconscious mind of an individual, who is deeply concerned with that particular happiness or sorrow. Such dreams do not take place very often. Nevertheless such a dream does carry the prognosis of a true event.” (1)

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha - 2, The Intuitional Science of the Vedas – 4

== Section: Important Teaching ==

About the ball

In the following quote Baba reveals the history of the "ball" which is nowadays commonly used in innumerable games and sports. The ball is originally invented in India. The following Baba's teaching reveals this fact.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The meaning of the root verb kand is 'to wallow'. We get the word kanduka (ball) by adding 'uk' to 'kand' or adding 'u' + 'ka' to kand. Its etymological meaning is 'that which rolls'; colloquially it refers to 'ball'-- a ball rolls. It should be remembered that the kanduka (ball) originated in this country. Originally, balls used to be made from cloth, but since cloth balls did not last very long people in ancient Bengal started making balls from the shoots of young bamboo." (1)

Reference
1. Shabda Cayanika - 3, Kakubh to Kavaśńa (Discourse 17)

== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

बाबा! तुम मेरे जीवन में तुम दिव्य प्रेम की फल्गु-धारा बहाते रहते हो

प्रभात संगीत 327 सौम्य शान्त  चेतनानन्द, चरण... दाओ गो आमाय...

भावार्थ

हे परमपुरुष बाबा! तुम सदा शान्त और आनन्द हो ! तुम  शुद्धचेतन , प्रेमस्वरूप! हो, तुम कृपा कर अपने चरण कमलों में मेरा समर्पण स्वीकार करो और मुझे आशीष  दो ।  हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम हतास की आशा  हो, व्यथित हृदय के लिये प्रेम हो, आश्रयविहीन भटकने वालों के तुम्हीं अंतिम आश्रय हो।

बाबा! तुम सभी लोकों  में प्रारंभ से अंत तक रहते हो, और मेरे जीवन में तुम दिव्य प्रेम की फल्गु-धारा बहाते रहते हो । तुम्हारी असीम करुणा लगातार सभी दिशाओं में बहती जा रही है। तुम सबके अति  प्रिय हो, और सबके सर्वाधिक पूज्य हो। तुम मनुष्यों की विद्या और बुद्धि से परे हो। हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम अपने चरण कमलों में मेरा समर्पण स्वीकार करो.

हे मेरे प्रभु, बाबा! मेरी पैदाइस इस सीमित जगत में, तथा मैं हूँ भी  इस सीमित जगत में, परन्तु तुम तो सीमा से परे हो, और मैं सीमा से परे अनंत सत्ता को सोच भी नहीं सकता। जब मैं तुम्हारा चिंतन करता हॅूं तो मेरा मन तुम्हीं में मिलने लगता है, खो जाता है । हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम अपने चरण कमलों में मेरा समर्पण स्वीकार करो.

हे मेरे प्रभु, बाबा! मेरे मन की मंजूषा , मधुर केवड़े के पराग के सामान है। मेरा मन सबकुछ मधुरता लेकर, तुम्हारी ओर दौड़ रहा है। बाबा!  हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम अपने चरण कमलों में मेरा समर्पण स्वीकार करो, और मुझे आश्रय दो। 

== Section 4: Links ==

Upcoming pseudo-culture event: 01 April 

Degrading tradition: April Fools’ Day 

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2016/03/why-pranks-should-always-be-condemned-3.html

Postings to Read

Prout on education & crime

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2018/04/widespread-violence-remedy.html

Prout's strategy to avert ecological catastrophes

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2019/06/how-to-stop-man-made-disasters-2-more.html

Science of essential AM practice

• https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/12/asana-longevity-all-around-health.html