George Bush with Sri Sri Ravishankar

George W. Bush receiving Sri Sri Ravishankar at White house in May 2004

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation and the International Association of Human Values, was on May 7 received by US President George W Bush in the Oval Office of the White House and implored to "please keep us in your prayers."

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is the first Indian spiritual leader to be received in the Oval Office by a president of the United States. The seer was visiting the White House for discussions with senior officials of the Bush Administration's Faith-Based Initiative, when officials asked him if he would like to meet with Bush. Almost immediately they arranged for an Oval Office meeting between the two.

Bush embraced Sri Sri Ravi Shankar soon as he entered the Oval Office, and said, 'I am very glad you are here and please keep us in your prayers." He then asked the guru if he could take a picture with him, and called for the White House photographer to do the needful.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar later participated in a prayer meeting presided over by Bush, at the White House East, which was followed by a reception for several participants belonging to various faiths.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar who as part of his world tour has just returned from Mexico and is scheduled to go to Brazil to address that country's Parliament, told rediff.com this was his first visit to the US Congress and the White House.

"My message to them has been the uplifting of human values," he said. He said he had briefed lawmakers and the White House about "our stress relief program with prisoners and the people in Iraq. The prison program is one of the main programs were are doing.

"I have already sent some doctors from India to Iraq, with ayurvedic medicines, and they are helping the people to overcome the trauma because the people there cannot sleep, are in constant anxiety and the conditions are terrible and women and children are suffering. So we are doing a big campaign for them."

"I am also working with Kashmiri migrants," Ravi Shankar told rediff.com. "We have about a three-and-a-half lakh Kashmir Pandits still in refugee camps for 14 years, and nobody has cared for them. Now, I am taking up their cause and trying to rehabilitate them, trying to put them back in Kashmir."

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was also feted on Capitol Hill at a reception hosted by influential Republican Representative David Dreier of California, who chairs the powerful House Rules Committee. Among lawmakers present were the co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian American Representatives Joseph Crowley (New York Democrat) and Joe Wilson (South Carolina Republican); founder and former co-chair of the India Caucus Frank Pallone (New Jersey Democrat); unsuccessful Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich of Ohio; Earl Blumenauer (Oregon Democrat); James Walsh (New York Republican); and Diane Watson (California Democrat), among others.

Dreier, who recently made his first visit to India along with Staff Director of the Rules Committee Billy Pitts, said, "He is obviously a great spiritual leader and we are all so pleased that we can welcome him. We've had some wonderful meetings, it's a great honor and privilege for me to be here and to welcome him to the US Capitol."

"This is something we need to pursue so that there is in this world that is shrinking, an understanding of differences that exist," he said.

Several influential Jewish Americans, including the hierarchy of the American Jewish Committee, were presented at the reception as were several Indian-American community leaders and senior Indian embassy officials.

Srilankan Cricket team learns Art of Living from Swami Sadyojathah

The Lahore attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team was yet another reminder of the growing threat of terrorism in today's world. You could call it 'Munich Olympics attack re-visited', though in Lahore, fortunately, the Sri Lankan players escaped with just minor injuries.
Even weeks later the cricketers were still reeling from the aftermath of the attack. That's when Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa decided summon the expertise of Art of Living teacher Swami Sadyojathah.
Sadyojathah, who is at the Art of Living International Ashram in Bangalore under the tutelage of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, conducted a four-day trauma relief programme for the cricketers.
In a detailed conversation with Chief Sports Correspondent Harish Kotian, Swami Sadyojathah talks about the programme he undertook with the players and the secret to healthy living.
Can you describe the course you put the Sri Lankan cricket team through?
The Art of Living foundation got an invitation from the Institute of Sports Medicine Sri Lanka on behalf of his Excellency the President of Sri Lanka [Mahinda Rajapaksa] to conduct the trauma relief programme for the Sri Lankan cricketers, who went to Lahore. Based on that I went there and had an eight-hour workshop spread over four days; the entire Sri Lankan team, except the two players who were in hospital, underwent the programme. They all enjoyed it; they felt it was a good break for them to move ahead.
When you met the players, did you feel that they will still in a state of shock? Were they still suffering from that trauma?
In fact, many people and the media were asking me about the trauma that they were going through. But, interestingly, in our style of Art of Living we conduct the same programme. We don't sit and just make them talk about the trauma. That is because they have spoken a lot about the trauma in the media and that was happening for nearly two weeks.
So, the four days that we spent together, I didn't ask them anything about Lahore and they didn't tell me also. It was like past is past and finished. It was about how to bring your mind to the present and move ahead. They had the belief as well and they wanted to do something as a team.
They felt this course was a good break for them. For the first time after the Lahore attack the whole team was in the same room, sitting for two hours everyday and learning the breathing techniques.
Did anyone approach you personally during the four-day course asking for help to overcome the shock?
No. We didn't have that session. They all, as a team, underwent the process. Some people did come to me, but all of them wanted to learn more about the yoga and breathing techniques.
Would you say they have got over the episode and are ready for life and returning to playing cricket?
Yes, definitely! They had already started going to the ground and practicing cricket. They believe they don't want to get stuck in the past and want to move ahead in life.
Did you meet the two cricketers, Thilan Samaraweera and Tharanga Paranavitana, who were hospitalised after sustaining bullet injuries?
Yes, I did meet them. In fact, before the course started, the Institute of Sports Medicine wanted me to meet them, so I visited them in the hospital. Since they were not able to do the course they said they will do it as soon as they can.
Many of the cricketers have come out in the open and praised the Sudarshan Kriya breathing technique. Can you give us a brief on it?
The Sudarshan Kriya is a very beautiful breathing technique that his Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has given to this world. It is a very simple and, at the same time, very powerful breathing technique. In fact, by this breathing technique, what happens is that the toxins get released from each and every cell of the body in a short span of time. Once you learn the breathing technique in the Art of Living programme you will know how to practice it everyday just for 10-15 minutes.
So you just got to do it for say around 10 minutes of breathing in 24 hours any time of the day wherever you are as simple as that. It has a very deep profound effect on the body and mind and gives deep relaxation. So once body and mind gets totally relaxed you become more dynamic and you will be able to do much more in a short time in a more effective way.
This Sudarshan Kriya is so powerful that once they start doing it as part of their everyday follow up sessions, the past will not affect them at all.
So you mean to say breathing techniques can you help over come mental trauma?
Yes, most definitely. In our day-to-day life we are experiencing that our breath pattern and emotions are connected. For example, if you are very happy, inhalation is prominent; if you notice it is deep inhalation, like you are enjoying the fragrance of a flower. When you are sad, exhalation is prominent, like sometimes you say a deep sigh. And when you are angry you can notice fast breathing.
So it is very clear that breath pattern and our emotions are connected. But, as of now, it is one-way traffic or a one-way street, like when you have different emotions you have different breath patterns.
But you have to make it a two-way street where using different breath patterns you can handle the mind and emotions.
Will you go back again and help the Sri Lankan cricket team if needed?
In fact it came from them only that they would like to have Sudarshan Kriya as part of their recovery programme after every match. They have a recovery day after a game where they do other processes; so they want Sudarshan Kriya as a part of that and they are also keen to do follow-up sessions, whichever part of the world they are. The Art of Living is present throughout the world so it easy for them also.
Do you also follow cricket or some other sports?
Yes, if I get time I do watch.
Don't you think the Indian cricket team could also benefit using this breathing technique?
Yes; in fact everyone should do it. The quality of your action depends on the state of your mind. If your mind is calm, centred, balanced, happy or joyful your action will be like that; but if your mind is frustrated, irritated or stressed then your action will be according to that. So the whole theme is to make the mind calm or focused, because that what everyone needs, especially the players.
I am sure the Indian cricket team will also benefit from this programme and they are most welcome if they want to do it.
The Art of Living course is meant for mental conditioning, but can it also bring relief from physical pain?
You should see the full definition of health. His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has given this definition of health in which he says you have to see health in seven dimensions that is body, breath, mind, intellect, memory, ego and self.
These are the seven layers of existence. We all know health as disease-free body, but it is not just that. It is a combination of disease-free body, quiver-free breath, confusion-free mind, inhibition-free intellect, trauma-free memory, ego that includes all, and sorrow-free soul.
So only when all these seven layers of existence are taken into account only then you can say that you are healthy. So these breathing techniques and the other programmes that we do cater to each layer of existence; it is holistic.
You have also helped tragedy-struck people in other parts of Sri Lanka, mainly during the tsunami in 2005. Can you give details on that?
Wherever our help is required, our volunteers go there. We have done work is Kosovo also after the war, then in Lebanon and Iraq. In fact, in Iraq we have local Iraqis who conduct Sudarshan Kriya programmes and we also have Iraqi Art of Living teachers.
His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has also visited Iraq twice and we trained the youth there; it is a ongoing process.
And during the tsunami, immediately after the tragedy struck, I went to Sri Lanka. The first week after the tsunami I visited Jafna. Already it was affected by war for the past 20-25 years and on top of that the tsunami happened. It was in a very bad state. That is when I took the volunteers and teachers from India and other countries to start the work there.

Musical Symphony at Art of Living Silver Jubilee

This is a video of the grand south Indian musical symphony of 3800 musicians on the majestic stage of the Art of Living Silver Jubilee celebrations held at Bangalore from 17th to 19th February 2006. This is the world's largest ever stage.

The symphony consisted of 650 Mridangams, 100 Ghatams, 100 Kanjeeras, 138 Tavils, 30 Morsings, 770 Veenas, 782 Violins, 10 Vichtra Veenas, 60 Tambaras, 10 Mandolins, 750 Flutes, 138 Nadaswarams, 92 Saxaphones, 20 Keyboards, 150 Guitars.

Video of the Art of Living Silver Jubilee Symphony

Antarnaad

'Antarnaad' - An enthralling symphony of 2000 Hindustani Classical Vocalists, conducted by Art of Living, Pune in the Divine presence  of H H Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji

Date:       12 Jan 2010
Time:       6 pm onwards
Location: SP college ground, Pune

Highlights:

• 2000 Hindustani Classical Vocalists to perform on one stage - First time in the history of music!
• A platform to showcase Hindustani classical music.
• Celebrities from the music fraternity like Pt. Rajan & Sajan Misra, Shankar Mahadevan,
• Chitra Roy and other Celebrity Singers to perform together on one stage.
• Event coordinated by Shri Shashi Vyas.
• An event slated to enter the Guinness Book of World Records.
• Meditation by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji.
• Estimated audience of about 1 lakh.

If you are a classical singer, you can be part of the 2000 Vocalist! Click here to Register!

SPIRITUAL ANALYSIS OF NAMASKAR

SPIRITUAL ANALYSIS OF "NAMASKR "

  What is the meaning and the benefits of 'Namaskar'?

 
Origin and the meaning of the word 'Namaskar'

The word 'Namaskar' is derived from the root 'namaha', which means paying obeisance (Namaskar) or salutation.

 
Frome Science of Justice - 'Namaha' is a physical action expressing that 'you are superior to me in all qualities and in every way'.

Worldly Benefits
- By doing Namaskar to a deity or a Saint, unknowingly their virtues and capabilities are impressed upon our minds. Consequently we start emulating them, thus changing ourselves for the better.

Spiritual Benefits
- Increase in humility and reduction of ego / Enhancement in the spiritual emotion of surrender and gratitude / Gaining the Sattva component and faster spiritual progress
We receive the highest amount of Sattva component from the posture (mudra) of Namaskar.
By  doing Namaskar to Deities or Saints we receive subtle frequencies emitted by them, e.g. frequencies of Sattva or Bliss.


Why is it not appropriate to Shake Hands?

 
Avoid a Hand Shake: It tranfers undesirable raja-tama components! In short, in a handshake, the raja-tama components in one pers on will get transferred to the other person, thereby lowering his sattvikta (Purity levels). While practicing Spirituality, our objective is to perform acts which increase our sattvikta.
If at all they do Namaskar by joining their palms, it is done just as a formality. As the act is not based on faith, the benefit derived from it is minimal. Along with faith it is essential that every religious act be correctly performed according to the Science of Spirituality, so that it gives complete benefit. In this series, as with the others,  along with information on various methods of doing Namaskar, the Science in them is also explained. Understanding the Science will help in strengthening faith in the act. Such an act correctly performed with faith, will yield corresponding benefits.


How does one do Namaskar to an individual of the same age group?

When meeting someone of the same age-groupdo Namaskar by joining the fingers and placing tips of the thumbs on the Anahat chakra (at the centre of the chest). This type of Namaskarincreases the spiritual emotion of humility in the embodied soul. Sattva frequencies from the universe are attracted by the fingers (which act as an antenna) and are then transmitted to the entire body through the thumbs which have awakened the Anahat chakra. This activates the soul energy of the embodied soul. In addition, by doing Namaskar in this manner to each other, frequencies of blessings are also transmitted.


What is correct method & science of doing Namaskar to God?
  

A. 'While paying obeisance to God, bring the palms together.
1. The fingers should be held loose (not straight and rigid) while joining the hands or palms..
2. The fingers should be20kept close to each other without leaving any space between them.
3. The fingers should be kept away from the thumbs.
4. The inner portion of the palms should not touch each other and there should be some space between them.

Note: The stage of awakening of spiritual emotion (Bhav) is important to the seeker at the primary level. Hence, for awakening spiritual emotion (Bhav), he should keep space in between the joined hands, whereas a seeker who is at the advanced level should refrain from leaving such space in between the palms to awaken the unexpressed spiritual emotion (Bhav).

B. After joining the hands one should bow and bring the head forward..

C. While tilting the headforward, one should place the thumbs at the mid-brow region, i.e. at the point between the eyebrows and try to concentrate on the feet of the Deity.

D. After that, instead of bringing the folded hands down immediately, they should be placed on the mid-chest region for a minute in such way that the wrists touch the chest; then only  should the hands be brought down.

Underlying Science in this action
 

A. The fingers should not be stiff while bringing the palms together because this will lead to a decrease in Sattva component from the vital and mental sheaths and thus increase the raja component in them. By keeping the fingers relaxed, the subtlest Sattva component will get activated. With the strength of this energy, embodied souls are able to fight powerful distressing energies.

B.. In the Namaskar posture, the joined fingers act as an antenna to assimilate the Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) or the Energy transmitted by a Deity. While joining the palms, the fingers must touch each other beca use leaving space between the fingers will result in accumulation of energy in that space. This energy will be immediately transmitted in various directions;  therefore the seeker's body will lose the benefit of this potent energy.

C. About the space to be maintained between the palms:
For a seeker at the primary level, it is advisable to leave space between the palms; it is not necessary for a seeker at an advanced level to leave space between the palms.

D. After joining the palms, bow a little. This posture puts pressure on the navel and activates the five vital energies situated there. Activation of these vital energies in the body makes it sensitive to accepting sattvik frequencies. This later awakens the 'Atma shakti'  (i.e. soul energy of an embodied soul). And later, Bhav is=2 0awakened. This enables the body to accept in large measures the Chaitanya emitted by the Deity.

E. Touch the thumbs to the mid-brow region. (Please see images above..) This posture awakens the Bhav of surrender in an embodied soul, and  in turn activates the appropriate subtle frequencies of Deities from the Universe. They enter through the ’Adnya chakra’ (Sixth of the 7 chakras in the Kundalini) of the embodied soul and settle in the space parallel to it at the back interior of the head. In this space the openings to all the three channels converge; namely, the Moon, the Central and the Sun channels. Due to the movement of these subtler frequencies in this space, the Central Channel is activated. Consequently it facilitates the speedy transmission of these frequencies throughout the body, leading to purification of both the gross and subtle bodies at the same time.

F. After doing Namaskar, to completely imbibe the Chaitanya of the Deity (that has entered the hands by now), instead of bringing the folded hands down immediately, place them on the mid-chest region in such a way that the wrists touch the chest.

The 'Anahat chakra' is located at the centre of the chest. Akin to the Adnya chakra, the activity of the Anahat chakra is also to absorb the Sattva frequencies. By touching the wrists to the chest, the Anahat chakra is activated and it helps in absorbing more of the Sattva component.


Effect of this Posture

By doing Namaskar in this manner, the Deity's Chaitanya is absorbed to a greater extent by the body, as compared to other methods of doing Namaskar. This gives maximum distress to negative energies. The negative energies that have manifested in a person are unable to touch their thumbs at the mid-brow region in Namaskar. (The negative energies are subtle. But at times they enter an individual's body and manifest it. - Editor)'

Q. What is the reason for not wrapping a cloth around the neck while performing circumambulation, doing Namaskar, ritualistic worship, sacrificial fires, chanting and while visiting Guru and deities?

A. When a cloth is wrapped around the neck, it does not activate the Vishuddha chakra (in the throat region) and hence an individual gets less benefit of the Sattva component.


Why should one always do Namaskar to elders?



Meaning: When an elderly person arrives, the vital energy of the young person starts rising and when he gets up and does Namaskar, it returns to normal. - Manusmruti 2.120; Mahabharat, Udhyog, Chapter (Section) 38.1, Sr. no. 104, 64-65

Explanation: 'As the sojourn of the elderly person is gradually towards the southern direction, that is, towards the region of Lord Yama (towards death), his body starts emitting raja and tama frequencies on a high scale. When such an elderly person comes in the vicinity of any younger individual, these frequencie s start affecting the younger person. A subtle magnetic field is created between the two. Consequently, the vital energy of the younger person is pulled upward. This way the younger person can suffer due to sudden momentum to his vital energy. When this younger person doesNamaskar to the elderly person, some amount of the Central channel of his Kundalini system is activated and the Sattva component in it starts increasing. Consequently the raja and tama components in him are influenced by the Sattva component and the vital energy comes back to normal state. Hence on arrival of an elderly person, it is customary for the younger individuals
 to do Namaskar to them.'

 
D’oing Namaskar to Elders.

< /FONT>When travelling, prior to the commencement of a journey and upon returning, why should one do Namaskar to elders in the family?

'Namaskar to the elders in the family is one way of surrendering to the God principle in them. When an embodied soul bows in Namaskar to an elder by surrendering to the God principle in him, at that time a sense of compassion is created in his body. This compassion percolates right upto his subtle body. At that time, energy of his mind is activated and in turn activates the five vital energies, which are located at the seat of the Manipur chakra (situated in the Naval region). Transmission of these five vital energies all over the body then awakens the soul energy. With the strength of the soul energy, the Central channel gets activated and converts the expressed energy of spiritual emotion to the unexpressed energy of spiritual emotion. With the help of this unexpressed energy of spiritual emotion, the embodied soul, through the medium of elders, gains the required Deity's principle from the Universe. For this purpose, while leaving the house on a
  journey, the embodied soul should do Namaskar to elders and with the strength of Sattva frequencies has to protect himself from distressing frequencies in the atmosphere. Similarly, returning from a journey, one should immediately do Namaskar to elders and awaken the God principle in them, which would disintegrate the raja-tama particles from the air around him, which might have been brought along.


What is the correct method of doing Namaskar to Saints?

1.. The portion of head, which should be placed at the feet :

We can imbibe maximum Chaitanya through the Brahmarandhra (the seventh chakra of the Kundalini system located in the crown of our head). Since it (Brahmarandhra) cannot be placed at a Saints's feet, the part of head beginning above the forehead is to be placed at the feet of Saints.. Due to this, maximum Chaitanya emanating from Their feet can enter into the one doing Namaskar.

2. The exact spot to place one's head on a Saint's feet:

The big toes of Saints emit maximum Chaitanya; hence we should place our head on the big toe, than on their foot. If we are in a position to touch both the20toes, then place the head on the right big toe.

3. The position of hands when placing the head on a Saint's feet:

a. Some interlock their hands behind their backs at the waist and do Namaskar. If we are in a position to touch both their toes, then we should place the hands one on each foot and the head should be placed on the big toe of the right foot. If we are in a position to touch one of Their toes, then place both the hands on it and keep the head on the big toe.

b. Some do Namaskar by placing hands on the ground. This is also wrong because if the hands are placed on the ground then the Chaitanya emanating from the Saint's feet are absorbed by one and then returns to the earth through the hands of the one doing Namaskar. Thus the person does not benefit from it.

c. Some cross their hands and place them on the feet of Saints, that is, their right hand on the right foot of the Saint and their left hand on the left foot of the Saint while doingNamaskar. This is a crude imitation of the manner in which Christians place their crossed hands on their chest. Instead, our right hand should be placed on the left foot of the Saint and our left hand on the right foot of the Saint. This is convenient also. However, if a Guru has started some procedure in a particular sect, then the hands are to be placed in that manner only.

d. The hands are to be positioned in such a way that the palms are placed on the feet..


How to do Namas kar to the wooden footwear (paduka) of Saints?

  
Namaskar to the wooden footwear (paduka) of Saints

'The left paduka symbolises Lord Shiva and the right symbolises Divine Energy. The left paduka is the unmanifest saviour energy and the right is the unmanifest destroyer energy of the Supreme God. The saviour or destroyer energy of the Supreme God emanates from the 'pegs' of the paduka as per the need. When we do Namaskar by placing our head on the 'pegs' of the paduka, some may experience distress due to the inability to tolerate the manifest energy emitting from it. Hence, while doing Namaskar to the paduka, instead of the pegs, place the head on the for emost part i.e. the place where the Saints place their toes.'


Should one do Namaskar to a dead body?

Q. If this be so, should we do Namaskar to the dead bodies in Kaliyuga only as a custom? If it is a custom, can we discontinue it?

A. One can maintain respect for the dead person by doing Namaskar and in addition set an ideal with regards to respecting elders. In Kaliyuga, from this one will benefit at an emotional level and not at a spiritual level. However, one should not discontinue this custom; instead one could learn how to get spiritual benefit from it. Due to the deterioration of the Sattva component in embodied souls, this practice has become a mere custom in Kaliyuga.

However, as per the saying, 'God exists where there is spiritual emotion', while doing Namaskar to a dead body if we have a spiritual emotion that we are doing Namaskar  to the God principle in it, then the God principle in the dead body awakens and we receive God's blessings. This happens because the God principle is immortal and has no limit ations that a physical body has.


Q. It is said that one should not do Namaskar to a sleeping person. In Kaliyuga if one does Namaskar by touching the dead body, then are the chances of getting distress from negative energies not higher?

A. Yes it is; but while doing Namaskar it is important that the action be performed with correct spiritual emotion. Since Namaskar is done to the God principle in the dead body instead of activating raja, tama components, it activates the Godly principle in the dead body and bestows Sattva corresponding to the degree of spiritual emotion.'


'One hand' touch to the Temple Steps

Action: Touch the step with the fingers of the right hand and move the same hand over the head.

Science: 'The area around the temple is charged with20frequencies of Deities which leads to an increase in the Sattva component. The presence of Divine consciousness in the area charges even the stairs in a temple. 'Climbing' steps is one of the activities, which increases the raja component in the body. Hence, the raja component is already activated in the body of an embodied soul so by touching the steps with the fingers of the right hand, the Sattva component and peace from the charged premise, get transmitted to the body through the right hand. In addition, from this action, the activated raja component in the body can be controlled through the medium of the surya nadi (Sun channel). This means that, for a moment, the activities of the Sun channel can be stopped. From this process, the embodied soul learns to enhance the Sattva component through raja dominant actions. Therefore, it is very essential to perform the appropriate sattvik actions at
 each corresponding level, hence the method of touching the steps with fingers of the right hand and then moving the fingers or palm over the head. Even the dust present on the steps is charged with Chaitanya and so we must respect it and derive spiritual benefit from it. If the embodied soul harbours the spiritual emotion that 'the Chaitanya from the steps be transmitted all over my body from the dust on my hand', then it will give increasing benefit to the embodied soul.. In addition if the ego of the embodied soul is less at that time then it gives even more benefit. When any action is performed devoid of ego or 'I'ness it is treated as a 'non-action' (akarma-karma) .'



Do's and Dont's while doing Namaskar

Q. Why should the eyes be closed while doing Namaskar?

 'Joining hands while bowing the head amounts to saluting God or the divinity in the person in front. The eyes are closed while doing Namaskar to God or any respected person, to enable one to have the vision of God within us.'

Q. Why should the footwear be taken off while doing Namaskar?

While sitting, partaking meals, sleeping, wishing and doing Namaskar to Gurus and other elderly people, footwear should not be worn. - Gautamsmruti 9.

1. Footwear increases the raja-tama components in a person.

2. Paying obeisance (Namaskar) with high raja-tama components will not help in activating the Kundalini (centre in the spiritual energy system).

3. The ability to absorb the sattva component too is reduced, due to an increase in the raja-tama components, leading to little benefit from a Namaskar.

4. Doing Namaskar to a Deity, with footwear on, may also invite the wrath of the Deity.’

Q. Why is it not advisable to hold any object while doing Namaskar?

1. While doing Namaskar if an object is held in the hands, usually the fingers and their tips are in a curled position and not straight. As a result, the sattva component received is unable to enter the tips of the fingers.

2. The sattva component emitted towards the seeker, strikes the object held and bounces back. Also, at times, instead of the person absorbing the sattva component, the object may absorb it.

3. If the object in the hand is raja or tama predominant, and if it is touched to the forehead or chest while doing Namaskar, then the raja-tama components from it mayenter the body of the one who is doing Namaskar.

Q. While doing Namaskar, why are men not supposed to cover their head, whereas women are advised to cover their head?

 One should not do Namaskar with footwear on, covering the head or holding any objects. (But women should cover their head with their saris and only then do Namaskar) - Apastamb Dharmasutra 1.4.14.19

While doing Namaskar the Kundalini gets activated at the chakra which is touched by the folded hands.. This leads to the absorption of the Sattva component in greater proportion in the body. Sometimes due to the activation of the Kundalini, Sattva component starts entering the body through the head. But at times the distressing energies try to take advantage of this and mix black energy with the Sattva component.. The potential to activate the Kundalini is higher in men as compared to women. Hence they are hardly affected by this negative energy.. Contrary to this, as women are more vulnerable, they get affected by distressing energies to a greater extent and thus they can experience distress. That is why, when doing Namaskar, women are advised to cover their head with the ends of their sari. This creates a barrier between the head and the distressing energies and prevents themfrom penetrating the body of the woman. However, to some extent this also blocks
 benevolent frequencies from entering the women. (Benevolent frequencies are subtler than negative frequencies; hence they enter a woman to some extent even though the sari covers her head.) However, the proper posture of Namaskar gives maximum Sattva component to an individual and hence women too get required benefits. This shows how God takes care of every devotee. Doing Namaskar without these restrictions is equally effective if the devotee does it with spiritual emotion.

Sri Sri receives 2009 Culture in Balance award

Source: Rediff Article

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addresses the World Culture Forum in Dresden on Saturday

Spiritual leader and Art of Living Founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, was Saturday conferred with the 2009 Culture in Balance Award in Dresden, Germany, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to all the facets of culture, and for his commitment to global cultural balance.

In granting the award, the selection committee attached special importance to Sri Sri's efforts in promoting intercultural dialogue, peace and reconciliation in conflict zones, and ethics in business.

The award, instituted by the Forum Tiberius, was presented to Sri Sri by Dresden Mayor Helma Orosz, amidst a standing ovation. The award ceremony took place in a special session of the World Culture Forum, at Volkswagen's landmark transparent factory in Dresden.

Rich tributes were paid to Sri Sri by a number of prominent individuals, including Nirj Deva, British Member of European Parliament, Prof. Gesine Schwan, candidate for the 2009 German presidential elections and Dean of Humboldt-Viadrina School of Governance, Berlin, and Prof. Bernd Guggenberger, Dean of Lessing University, Berlin.

Upon receiving the award, Sri Sri said, "I share this award with all those people who stand for a violence-free and stress-free society. This award is not for a person or personality, but for a principle that stands for the ideal of a 'one world family and cultural plurality."

Earlier in the day, Sri Sri spoke of the need to globalize compassion, wisdom and humanism in his keynote address at the World Culture Forum, besides answering a wide range of questions and conducting a meditation.

Happy Dussera!

Happy Dussera to all!
H.H. Sri Sri Ravishankar's discourse on Navratri and Vijayadashmi

Here is a very special discourse (not verbatim)... enjoy ! 23rd.Oct.2004 - Vijaya Dashmi - Dussera

Q. Was this Navratri different?
A. Every day is different. Every moment is different... like every person is unique.


Q. Should reservation be there?
A. Reservation should not be there. All are equal.

Q. Whats the difference between truth and faith?
A. What you don't know as truth, but believe in it, is truth. If faith is not there then truth is not there. And its truth which creates faith. When mind is at peace then truth and faith both are there. When mind is feverish then problem occurs.


Q. During Chandi Homa why the coconuts were broken when the kalash was been taken?
A. In your house when you use a phone there is a transformer which converts the incoming high energy to low energy. Like that, energy in kalash is so much that you have to break a coconut to control it a bit.


Q. Guruji, we should follow our instinct or others advise?
A. Sometimes instincts, sometimes advise. When you are thirsty and want to drink water, and if somebody says don't drink water, then follow your instincts. If you are feeling sleepy and somebody says you don't sleep, then you follow your instincts. But if somebody says don't drink and drive, then you listen to their advise. Similarly, if you are driving and feeling sleepy then listen to the advise and not sleep.
In your life you have to take advise and opinions from people. Be an open book and not a closed mind.


Q. Guruji, whats your view about conversion?
A. Conversion from hardness to softness, rudeness to caring, selfishness to seva, is required! From small guage to broad guage and not narrow. This is necessary.


Q. Why are there so many mysteries in this world?
A. For you to wonder. Thats why this world is wonderfull, full of wonders.


Q. Why do people fear death?
A. They don't know what is love. Love becomes fear in them. Not everybody fears death - terrorists, suicide bombers don't fear death. Only selfish people fear death. People on path of service don't fear death. And, a little fear doesn't matter.


Q. Why knowingly we do something wrong? And, regret later.
A. You knowingly do something wrong because you get joy in it. You regret later because your consciousness doesn't like that act of yours.


Q. How was your Pakistan visit?
A. Very good. In Pakistan this knowledge is so much needed. After 55 years somebody made a spiritual visit there. They said, for the first time they felt that India has embraced them. Their text books don't talk about Buddha, Mahavir, Guru Nanak Dev. Many don't know who was Krishna. There are only a couple of lines about Mahatma Gandhi saying that he and Jinnah brought Pakistan. They don't know about Chandragupta and Ashoka, the famous Indian kings. They are good people. Some of them came here recently and participated in Advanced Meditation course. They really cried when satsangees said "we love you all!"


Q. Do you believe in aliens?
A. Believe? I am one.


Q. Guruji, whats the meaning of Navratri?
A. Ratri, "ra" means giving solace. Solace from 3 types of problems, that "tri" - physical, ethereal and causal. Ratri relieves you and puts you to sleep. No animal needs to worry at night. Whether happy or unhappy everybody goes to sleep. In sanskrit, words are connected to the meaning. This leaf (tied on the stage) is "parna". It absorbs sun rays and
photosynthesis happens. Similarly there is "aparna". That which doesn't absorb but radiates - like mirror. This white cloth (pointing his white robes) is "aparna". White color doesn't absorb, it reflects. Similarly green is "parna" as it absorbs.


Navratri has two meanings - New Night and Nine nights. It takes 9 months for a child to be born. Child rests in the womb during this period. Similarly in Navratri you get back to the self - self referral. Dip into yourself and then you come out with more creativity and be victorious. Negative forces - craving and aversion get relief from all these. Go to the source of energy.


Craving and Aversion are two asuras (demons) like "Madhu" and "Ketav". Then is "Raktabijasur", that which is in your genes. "Rakta" means blood, "bija" means seed. Raktabijasur is like gene in the blood. Sometimes your behavior is not in your control - its in your genes, Raktabijasur. Medication and meditation are required to tackle Raktabijasur. When such energy comes to you transformation happens, the genes change.


Then is "Mahishasura" - dullness. Dullness like buffalo. You need "shakti" (energy) to deal with this. When shakti comes inertia is lifted out. "Shumbh" "Nishumbha" - doubting on everything. "Shumbh" means doubting oneself and "Nishumbh" means doubting others. Doubting at every step. These days people are so busy. Mind is so clogged, so occupied, no time to think of oneself. If someone insults you don't think it as intentional.
"Chanda" and "Munda". Chanda means opposite head. Chanda will oppose anything you say. One who cannot agree with anything. "Munda" does not have a head at all. Whatever you tell them, it will all go in air. Then is "Dhumralochana", "Dhumra" means smoke and "lochana" means eyes - smoky eyes. They see everything hazy.
All this is due to lack of Shakti. When you are full of energy and enthusiasm none of these rakshasas (demons) can come in you.


Q. If these Rakshasas were killed then why do they still exist.
A. Creation happens everyday. Its happening in every atom in space. As a child you were Chandi. Chandi means stubborn. Stubborn without any reason.
They are all part of one divinity. All play and display of one consciousness. You would say if devi is so powerfull then why would she come with weapons to fight with rakshasas, why doesn't she kill them just like that. Its all to make it more playful. Through these weapons even these asuras become purified. Its all one consciousness that plays these roles and comes back.
Creation happens everyday and destruction happens everyday. Its not a one time activity. Its a cyclic phenomenon that makes the whole world so interesting.
Everything is cyclic and not linear - this is India's biggest contribution to the world. Truth is spherical. Time is spherical.


Q. We go deep in ourself when we are in sorrow. Isn't there the other way of going deep?
A. If sorrow takes you deep inside then you have not really gone deep inside. There is no sorrow in the deepest - the core. Wake up in knowledge and you will not find any sorrow. Whatever sorrow is there its because of foolishness. When you look with a broad vision there is no sorrow. There are two ways to get rid of sorrow. Either you kill the sorrow with knowledge or you go through it. In latter you cry and after sometime you will calm down.

Sri Sri Ravishankar: Power of your Vote

India's problems are complex. And unfortunately these are compounded by vote-bank politics. Instead of uniting the different sections of society, many politicians divide it to keep their vote banks intact. If people are united, politicians won't be able to get votes through divisive politics.In such a situation, the only way for them to win votes would be through good performance.

As citizens, we must protect our country from those who manipulate issues for their personal gains and who lead by playing vote-bank politics. Those with vested interests support insensible decisions and oppose sensible ones. We have to steer clear of such leaders. We must encourage broad-minded politicians and leaders to come forward and take charge, and to educate and uplift the society - spiritually, morally and socially.

We need leaders who are satya-darshi (truthful), sam-darshi (equanimous), priya-darshi (pleasant), paar-darshi (transparent) and door-darshi (visionary). So, before we elect our leaders, we should examine their qualifications.

We must elect leaders who will do away with policies based on caste, creed, religion and region; who will ensure that every child gets a multi-cultural, multi-dimensional education.

We need leadership with a mission and a vision, leadership with a spirit of sacrifice, compassion and commitment. We must choose leaders who have a long-term vision and short-term plans to achieve it. They should have great personal integrity, and place the country before themselves.

Unfortunately, most of our politicians lack a sense of sacrifice and inclusiveness. Irrespective of the party they belong to, people perceive politicians as insincere. Today, people are fed up of them. This is when apathy sets in among people. They dismiss politics as a whole and withdraw from their basic duty of voting.

Our votes are an important tool to bring about a change in the system; they give us an opportunity to raise our voice against injustice. But many of us have developed a chalta hai attitude, because we fail to see the power of our votes. This attitude is dangerous for the country. By not voting we are encouraging the status quo. Each one of us must not only vote but also encourage others around us to vote.
When good, intelligent and well-educated people don't vote, they play into the hands of politicians, who use money and vote bank politics to seize power.

People should not lose hope. Good politicians exist. And they must be given a chance to do the best they can for the country, for its people.

We have seen the shortcomings of capitalism, communism and socialism. Now is the time for humanism and spiritualism. Politics without humanism and spiritualism is bound to be dirty. Many people believe that spiritualism is not for this world, that it is not a practical tool to bring about societal transformation. But that's a misconception. Mahatma Gandhi was spiritual. He conducted satsangs every day and played an important role in bringing freedom for our country.That is why today we need leaders who have a spirit of sacrifice, and who are spiritual in their outlook, to enter politics.

 Sri Sri Ravishankar and SIMI's talk at KERALA
This happened in Kerela.

Sri Sri gave an audience to the SIMI (Student Islamic Movement of
India) leaders. Four leaders from SIMI came to meet Sri Sri at the residence
of one of the organizers. Following their entry, an air of tension enveloped
the hall where hundreds were waiting to meet with Sri Sri. Naseeb, one of
the devotees, guided them to the room where Sri Sri was sitting with a few
of us. They (the SIMI leaders), were dashing youths in their mid 20's. One
of them was carrying the holy Koran. They were little stern and stiff. Their
eyes were fixed and seemed to reflect an inner fire. They looked prepared to
repulse anything that Sri Sri would tell them and most unlikely to listen to
reason.

Sri Sri was His usual smiling self.

The stage was set. It had all the signs of a classic confrontation. On one
side were the brash youth - intemperate, impatient, driven by ideology and
out to prove their superiority. On the other was a youthful, realized sage,
unperturbed, offering sane explanations that echoed an uncommon depth and
breadth of understanding. Those of us in the room, were eager to see how Sri
Sri would deal with these firebrands. Sri Sri embraced them and offered them
chairs to sit. There was not an iota of difference in His attitude. Any
casual onlooker could be forgiven for thinking that Sri Sri considered these
gentlemen as amongst His most ardent devotees. Perhaps the only difference
that we could see was that they were seated on chairs while the rest of us
were on the floor! For us, it was yet another opportunity to witness the
unconditional love that Sri Sri exemplifies.

The leader of the group spoke first. He asked

SIMI: You had wanted to meet with us.

SRI SRI: Yes. I wanted to understand why your organization was opposed to
the Anandotsavam.

SIMI: We thought that holding an Anandotsavam (celebration) on December 6th
was a deliberate move to insult our religious sentiments. Do you know about
our religion?. Do you believe in the Koran at all?

SRI SRI: Yes of course.

SIMI: (Not expecting this answer, pointing to the Koran, they shot the next
question) We believe that Koran is the only knowledge. What about you?

SRI SRI: This is one amongst the various knowledge revealed to man from time
to time.

SIMI: But God has said this is the only knowledge. The way of the Koran is
the only way. There is no other way.

SRI SRI: This message can be found in scriptures of all religions. In the
Vedas it is said "Naanyah Panthaah Ayanaaya Vidyate" meaning "There is no
other way but the way of Truth!" The same is said in the Bible, Jesus says,
"To go to my father, you have to go through me. I am the only way".

SIMI: But our scripture says worshipping any form or idol is evil, it is
blasphemy.

SRI SRI: What is Good and Evil after all? It is relative. Relative existence
is not the complete picture For example: Milk is good, but too much milk can
kill you. Poison is harmful, but a drop of poison can save your life. Most
lifesaving medicines have poison written on them! These are neither
absolutely good nor bad they are just there. Truth transcends duality, and
God is the Absolute and only Truth. So, where is the place for evil?

SIMI: Yet you Hindus worship many Gods, whereas our ideal is there is only
one God and His message is what is required to go to heaven.

SRI SRI: There is only one god in many forms.

SIMI: (Restless and unwilling to listen to any explanation, they interrupted
Sri Sri.) But the Koran says you should only worship Allah who is formless
whereas the Hindus worship idols which are only stones.

SRI SRI: At this, Sri Sri suddenly asked them: Do you honour the Koran?

SIMI: (They seemed a little taken aback at this question from Sri Sri and
with a righteous air answered). Yes, it is God's word!

SRI SRI: Do you honor the Mecca?

SIMI: Yes, of course! That is our sacred place.

SRI SRI: So also, Hindu's honour God's creation as God. Just like sound
(Koran), the crescent moon, Kaaba and the month of Ramadan are sacred for
you, Hindus consider the River Ganges, the Himalayas, Saints as sacred. See,
a picture of your daughter is not your daughter, but you still adore the
daughter's picture. When you see the picture aren't you reminded of your
daughter?
(They nodded a yes)

SRI SRI: So also, a symbol is not God but is honoured as God. This sense of
honouring and sacredness makes you awake and alive. That is why the ancient
Rishis said to feel the entire creation and your whole life as sacred. They
considered God as omnipresent, as inseparable from His creation; like the
dance and the dancer.

Sri Sri elaborated further - Spirit loves diversity. Is there only one type
of vegetable or fruit? God created many type of fruits and vegetables. There
is not just one type of tree, not just one type of snake, cloud,
mosquito..Even you change your dress for different occasions. So how could
this consciousness that manifested this whole creation be monotonous? There
is only one God in many forms. Only one God is advocated. When you accept
the variety of Divinity, you cease to be a fanatic and fundamentalist. A
pregnant silence filled the room as they looked at each other expecting the
other to speak. Then as a face saving measure, the SIMI leader replied, "I
will need to go and consult my higher scholars." With a compassionate
ex-pression on His face, Sri Sri said: Never mind, (with a wave of His hand)
forget about religion. We are all human beings. Let us have a peaceful
society. Let us focus on development.

SIMI: No No No! What are you saying? You are talking about this world. What
we do here is immaterial. The Koran tells us that what matters is what you
get in eternal life and not to worry about material life. By doing service
to the society you will simply remain here. You have to obey Allah. Allah is
the only God and Mohammed is the last prophet.

SRI SRI: At this Sri Sri stopped them and after a pause asked them: Do you
think the Sikh Gurus are not prophets. Isn't Mirabai a prophet? What about
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu?
Once again, there was silence. Their ex-pressions had changed. The rigidity
had weakened and in its place was some confusion/uncertainty. Sri Sri seemed
totally at ease unmindful of the challenges posed at Him.

SIMI: No! You can go to heaven only if you believe in Allah and the Koran.

SRI SRI: No my dear - there was Buddha, Mahavira, Nanak, Jesus, Shankara. Do
you think they are not in heaven? If not, then I would rather be with them!

SIMI: You are such a nice person, but we pity you because you cannot get the
truth. You can't go to Allah. You can't be rewarded by Allah. God will never
show mercy on you.

SRI SRI: Never mind. (with a mischievous smile ) I will be with these people
(Shankara, Jesus, etc.)
(Even as we were admiring Sri Sri's patience and objectivity, we were
concerned at the wrong indoctrination that these youths had been subjected
to. We also observed a few others who were in the room were getting a little
restive, possibly wondering why Sri Sri was spending so much time with these
people who were obviously not at all receptive and that too when hundreds
were waiting outside just for a glimpse of Sri Sri.)

SIMI: Do you know, that over 1400 years ago, in the middle of the desert,
God revealed the secrets of creation. Even when there was no science, God
said that the Atom is the smallest particle!

SRI SRI smiled and said: Yes, the same is there in the shaastras too which
were known more than 10,000 years ago. In the shaastras it is said that the
Earth is over 19 billion years old! Truth is beyond time and space. It is
not confined to one time or one place One needs to have a scientific
spirituality.

As if to conclude the conversation Sri Sri gave them Ladoo as prasad. By now
there were traces of a smile on their faces. When they were about to leave
He gave them a hug. They definitely seemed to be less stern than earlier.
Could their attitude have changed? We wondered whether this ('changed
attitude') would persist or would they go back to their old fanatic ways.
But one thing was for sure, Sri Sri had made an impression that they would
not forget!
Later, while Sri Sri was having His lunch, someone asked Him, "Why is that
Islam is producing so many terrorists all over the world? No other religion
has given rise to so many terrorists in the world. What is the reason?"
SRI SRI: Look at the commitment and the fire in them. Take the good from
them and learn what you should not be doing. Don't label them as bad people.
They have not been imparted the knowledge of Vedanta. (Then as He was adding
ghee to the chili powder) He smiled and said "In this creation, there is a
place for everything."
Excerpted from an article written by Swami Sadhyojata and Harish Ramachandran

Ganesh Festival in Mumbai

Ganesh immersion in Arabian sea at Girgaon Chowpatty beach, Marine Drive, Mumbai.





This was the first movie from my Sony handycam. Its a cool model with 40x optical zoom! (digital zoom is 2000x). It has a cool 30 GB hard disk, so no hassles of video cassette or DVD! I posted this video originally at my other blog

Happy Guru Purnima

Today is Guru Purnima.Wish you all a wonderful Guru Purnima.
See my earlier article on Guru Purnima.
Also see Guru Purnima at about.com

Happy Guru Purnima





Today is Guru Purnima.Wish you all a wonderful Guru Purnima.

See my earlier article on Guru Purnima.

Also see Guru Purnima at about.com.

Happy Ram Navami

Happy Ram Navmi!

Happy Ram Navmi to all!
Check out my previous post on my Art of Living blog on Ram Navmi
Also check out my post who are you ? - 2.



Check out my latest on my other blog too.

Best v/s worst paradox!

Life is full of contradictions and ironies. Truth is always self-contradictory! I am the best and worst.. I am the most intelligent and most foolish at the same time! I am good and bad at the same time! I am a multi-dimensional guy but think linearly some times.. I am the best and worst.. I am full as well as empty at the same time. I am "everybody" and "nobody" at the same time! [1] I am vast like sky and deep like sea at the same time! I am the best and worst.. I am the most perfect and a crackpot at the same time! I am a dreamer as well as realist. I am the world"s best Dal maker, yet worst cook [2] I am the best and worst.. I am ignorant, yet most knowledgeable! I am rich, yet the poor!! I am a well-educated man and illiterate simultaneously! I am the best and worst.. I am a good mathematician, still bad at calculations! [3] I am an innovator but don"t know what to do at times! I solve everybody"s problems but still I have some problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am the best and worst.. There is no impossibility for me, still I can"t do some simplest! tasks! George Bush is a stupid guy, yet he did some smart things! Her "letting go" is her biggest strengh as well as her worst weakness many a times! I am the best and worst.. Einstein: Most ever intelligent in the mankind history. But he was a slow thinker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Isaac Newton: Was the GREATEST ever scientist, but he did stupid things. [4] Osama Bin Laden is the cruelest guy, yet he is kind [to his family and team-members (terrorists!)] I am the best and worst.. I see/touch matter ONLY but I know I have a mind! [5] I am a physicist and spiritualist! [6] Light is waves yet it is particles (photons)! [7] I am the best and worst.. History"s best computer science innovators/pioneers were NOT computer scientists, but they ARE physicists & mathematicians. [8] What you see is NOT truth; Truth is beyond our knowledge/common sense. [9] You practically "see" a mirage which never exists! I am the best and worst.. Light travels in straight-lines ONLY, yet it BENDS too!! I can"t "see" "myself" but I know I exist! I will die in a few decades, still I am ETERNAL; I know I will never ever die! nor was I ever born!! Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya.. Too much to digest?? Just take a cold water shower :) My other blog: Krish Wonders Blog! 1 Watch Matrix movie or read Yoga Vasishta/Bhagavadgita to understand this! 2 Dal is the only thing I can cook! But my Dal tadka has a huuuuge fan following!! 3 I am slow at adding three 2-digit numbers! Solving a multivariable partial differential equation of 20th order is much easier!! 4 Newton made one big hole (in his door) for his large (pet) cat (to enter) and another small hole for his kitten. Eventually both the cats ended up using the big hole only! 5 And I have never "seen" your mind; BUT I KNOW for SURE... You HAVE a mind!!!! 6 A physicist is concerned with physical, "material"/"tangible"/"visible" matter and measurable energy. A spiritualist is concerned with mind and consciousness (spirit). By the way, mind and matter complement each other! there is no contradiction, they are different sides of the same coin!! 7 Same with matter - Schrodinger Equation 8 Pioneers in Artificial Intelligence, parallel processing etc etc were physicists; Internet was invented at CERN labs, its not Yahoo, Microsoft or Apple.... 9 It is technically/scientifically/theoretically&practically POSSIBLE to travel into 1000 years future within just a few minutes!

Happy Maha Shiva Ratri

Happy Mahashivratri to all

Shiva, the Peace within You

Ratri or night is that which gives comfort to the mind, body & soul.
Shivaratri is that which brings a deep sense of serenity & benevolence.
Any meditation you do on this day has a manifold effect, 100 times more
of an effect, for this is the day when spirit touches the earth.




Your Nature is Shiva

Peace is your nature, yet you remain restless.
Freedom is your nature, yet you remain in bondage.
Happiness is your nature, yet you become miserable for some reason or
another.
Contentment is your nature, yet you continue to reel in desires.
Benevolence is your nature, yet you don"t reach out.
Going towards your nature is Sadhana.
Sadhana is becoming what you truly Are!

Your true nature is Shiva.
And Shiva is peace, infinity, beauty and the non-dual One.
Ratri means "to take refuge." Shivaratri is taking refuge in Shiva.

- Sri Sri Ravishankar, founder, Art of Living

Also check out my latest on my other blog http://blog.krishna-reddy.com/