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14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

During this Navaratri time you can write or do Japa of Lalitā Sahsranāma.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Nowadays the whole world is riddled with many calamities and differences of opinions; countries are fighting wars and some regions are hit by droughts. There is a lot of suffering all around. Some places are suffering from various diseases. The whole world is going through a depression. But spiritual devotees are very happy and are raring to surrender even more to Mother Goddess or their favourite deities during this auspicious time. They are mentally busy with their practice and austerities.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Navaratri is such a festival when we do more penance and perform rituals so that there is a little bit of relief (to individuals and to the world) because Mother Goddess is very kind. She would surely bestow strength, good health and good mind. During this Kaliyuga this is only the beginning of suffering. As we go further the world would suffer even more. This is a repercussion of mistakes made by humans. We are creating our suffering through our mistakes. So Mother Goddess is punishing us a little, but she is also very benevolent and gives good blessings. This year Swamiji's special prayers to Mother Goddess would be to forgive humanity. The mistakes were done at various levels - Swamiji will pray on your behalf for forgiveness.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

There is a Bhajan on this topic - Bhayamu Bhakti Nammakamu (Bhajan ID 8217)

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

It is a beautiful Bhajan which is very relevant and highly important this year. We need Bhayamu (spiritual fear out of veneration & respect) and Bhakti (devotion, strong faith) towards Mother Goddess. This Bhajan is really critical for this year. It means, we are all your children O Mother, please forgive our mistakes. It is a prayer to Mother Goddess. You can say that this Bhajan very much applies to this year. And it will be more useful in the future too. Last year when this Bhajan was composed, we all had sung it as a Bhajan, but this year it is a prayer.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Sometimes we think Puja means a lot of Physical work. There is a more to it, but since we are all embodied beings we must use our body and offer worship. Later you can graduate to doing mental Puja (mānasika Puja). Mother Goddess will look at you kindly, if you perform Puja utilising your physical body.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Devi Upāsana, Saptashati pārāyana, Sri Chakra Puja, all are worships for Mother. Khadgamāla, Soundarya Lahari, Shivānanda Lahari, Devi Bhāgavatam - reading all these scriptures is Upasana (worship) of Mother Goddess. These 9 days the Puja will relate to Tripura Devi. Raja Rajeswari Devi and Lalita Parameshwari Devi’s consecration will take place later in December. We have planned it during Datta Jayanti, everything is ready for it.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

So from next year onwards, the Navaratri ritual is going to change!

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Swamiji is channeling the power of Navaratri ritual into that consecration, so from here on the Navaratri Puja pattern is going to change, just as the menu changes from day to day.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

All of you must write Lalitā Sahasranāma in English too. You must all exit Nada Mandapa very quietly after this program. If you do not maintain silence, I will not come out for Darshana. Normally the announcements to maintain silence are made harshly/loudly over the mic, that is not the right way; all of you maintain silence, so much so that it should feel like there is no one in Nada Mandapa. Do not even whisper.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

I hear a lot of gossip is spreading about our devotees’ behaviour in the society outside Ashrama - it feels bad to hear such comments. If someone comments my devotees then it is a comment on Appaji. I have received many voice messages saying your Ashrama is Vaikuntha but your devotees are noisy! You must prove them all wrong. If you wear mask your will inevitably talk less. Each one of you must wear mask, do mantra, write Lalitā Sahasranāma.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

You are used to talking a lot and talking loudly too. It is a mistake, the mind is affected by too much chatter and too much noise. As Swamiji's one ear is weak in hearing, Swamiji cannot hear when some devotees whisper their difficulties to me. If Swamiji cannot hear because of your noise, then you will have to bear the brunt of it.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

You usually talk a lot, but from now on talk in whispers only if needed. All of you raise your hands and promise to observe Mouna. Mouna (Silence) is the only gift that you can offer to Swamiji. You cannot give anything else. You can only gift material items but the true offering that you can make to Swamiji which is dear to Swamiji is Mouna.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Look at other places (other Ashramas & institutions) - all those devotees observe silence. These people of Andhra create a racket. Reduce the noise. All of you wear mask - that is your punishment. When you wear a mask on your mouth, it means maintain silence. Do not talk in Annapurna Mandiram or in prasadam queue. If you do not honor this punishment, the other punishment is Swamiji not coming out. Is that ok? We have announced enough number of times to maintain silence but you do not listen. I will just do Sri Chakra Puja and go in. Do you want that? Will you maintain silence?

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

One ear of Swamiji struggles to hear, so when you talk loudly, it strikes *** the other ear. Do you want that for your Swamiji?

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

If not, then maintain silence.

14_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/14/navaratri-2023-benedictory-message-by-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

SDVT Swamiji: Appaji says - if you all wear mask, then Appaji will not wear mask and give us full Darshana. If not, Appaji will wear a mask. If you want full Darshana then observe the mask rule. It is in your hands what you want. Appaji says - I cannot tolerate noise, so wear mask. All of you make a promise to maintain absolute silence in Universal Prayer Hall. If you do, Appaji will give Darshana for longer duration. If you want that, let us observe silence and have more Darshana of Appaji.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Today is the first day of Navarātri. First, I'll speak in Kannada for a little bit. Then, I'll speak in Telugu.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

O Shiva Svarupini! You are Dakshināmūrti, you are Hayagrīva. You were born from the fire of Chit. You alone grant Jnāna. You created Brahma. Your aspect took form as Sarasvati and became consort of Brahma. You are this cosmos. You are the destination and destiny.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

On this first day, we should chant this shloka. This shloka must be chanted during the study of Devi Bhāgavatam, or when we behold the book. We prostrate to and praise Mother Goddess. By remembering Sri Mata, we get the wealth of Jnāna, we acquire land. Many wish to die in a house they own, they feel incomplete dying in a rented home. I don’t understand what this desire is, we can die anywhere. We can die on the road, on the bus, on the street, anywhere. Never mind! One gets wealth, education, Jnāna, radiance, etc., by remembering Sri Mata.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

There are some rules to listen to, or study the Devi Bhāgavatam. We cannot follow all the rules, but we can do some. If you want to follow the rules, don't let others deter you from it. This is described in Skanda Purāna. Observing these rules with Bhakti (devotion) and Shraddha (keen interest/involvement) bestows the Mother's grace.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

One must look for the auspicious day and time to listen to Devi Bhāgavatam. Therefore, Navarātri is a great time to do this. Guru Mantra bestows fulfilment when chanted during Navarātri. It is a Yajna to listen to Mother's praise and listen to Devi Bhāgavatam during these days. One must have desire to do seva, charity, during this time. Invite other people and entice them to come listen to this divine nectar. Even the Trinity and the Devatas heard this. Those with desires or without can listen to Devi Bhāgavatam these 9 days. While participating in all the sevas, come and listen to Devi Bhāgavatam. Listen for as many days as you can if you can't listen everyday.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Set up stage with wonderful decorations for the discourser. Set up a seat and let the discourser face the East (preferred) or North. Men and women should sit separately. Old people are exempted from sitting separately from their spouses, but others must sit separately. The discourser must be a worshiper of Mother. Men must tonsure their heads during this time. One must take a vow/deeksha to listen to the Purāna. Take bath and do your Puja. Put your heart solely into listening about Mother. First, pray to Ganapathi, then to Mother, and then to the book. At the beginning, and at the end, chant the mantra we just did. Believing the discourser to be Sage Vyasa himself, revere him. Don't see him as merely a discourser from the neighbouring town. Pray to Sage Vyasa, “O Sage Vyasa who is well versed in all Shāstras, please awaken the stories in our heart and remove our inner darkness. We prostrate to you everyday like this and will sit down. We cast away all worldly thoughts during this time.” Switch off your phones and avoid all worldly talks.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Eat only Sattvic food, and in moderation. Eat only once a day and let there be a bit of hunger throughout the day.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Sleep on the floor.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Speak only the truth. Wear a mask, it makes it easy.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Restrain the senses. There are some things, including some vegetables that should not be consumed during this time. Garlic and onions should be avoided. Alcohol and meat should be completely avoided.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Do not insult good people. Do not gossip. Do not engage with wicked people.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Be with compassionate, and have good conduct. Be patient. Those who are ailing or desiring children, or have ailing children, etc., should listen to Devi Bhāgavatam with great devotion. Even the unmarried ones will have all their desires fulfilled and attain the four goals of human life by listening to Devi Bhāgavatam.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

The charity, homas and other rituals performed during this time bring infinite fruits. Dedicate all fruits to Mother, do not keep it to yourself. That is when our desires are fulfilled. One attains Mukti when they listen to the discourse without desires.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Chant Gāyatri Sahasranāma. Revere those who worship. At the end, chant Vishnu sahasranāma to remove all flaws and errors in the 9 days.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

If you remember Lord Vishnu, taint of flaws and errors in Pujas, rituals, and Tapas, are removed. In the end, we should also do Chandi and Gayatri Homa. We should offer land, gold, clothes and jewellery during these days. When Guru is narrating, do not sit at an elevation above the Guru. That will give you a crow's birth next time. Those who engage in unnecessary banter during Guru's discourse are born as donkeys. Those who blame others and gossip will be born as donkeys. Those who create obstacles, or lie down, or disregard while the Mother's story is going on, will be relegated to hell. They attain very lowly births. If you feel that way, go pour cold water on yourself and come back and listen. You must not snooze while listening.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Worship the discourser, listen with rapt attention. Donate wealth, fruits etc to the narrator. Such a person gets Vaikuntha loka. May all of you get the grace of Durga Parameshvari, that is why I told you about all these rules.

15_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/15/navaratri-2023-day-1-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Swamiji says He will stay indoors if devotees start making noise. Those who came in line today were able to open their hearts out...I could hear them well because you (others) were quiet. It was very good today. May every day be like this.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Mother Goddess fulfils all wishes. Yesterday, we spoke about the rules of doing Devi Bhāgavtam parāyana. Today, we will talk about how Devi Bhāgavatam took birth. We should keep remembering Devi. We are already at Day 2. Time does not wait for us. We are also hurtling towards the jaws of death. Each second, each day is a step towards death. Nothing comes with us, only our sadhana does. Nothing that we have, comes with us. The idli, sambar, chutney do not come with us. The Pharaohs, the Egyptian kings, used to mummify the bodies and stock them with gold and other ornaments hoping that they would come back. The modern scientists later retrieved the valuables. No one comes back from death.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Mother is the gem Chintamani in fulfilling wishes. She resides in Kanchipuram. She is the fruit of all noble deeds, she is the form of Chaitanya. May she grant peace in my heart. Yesterday, we spoke about the rules of studying Devi Bhāgavatam. Today, we'll talk about how it incarnated.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

In the past, Sage Vyasa asked his son Sage Shuka to get into a householder's life. The son said this was a frightening proposition as it was the cause for rebirths. It is rare to get a human birth, and that too, in the land of karma. “Why should I get into a householder's life? Why do you think we are different from Brahma? Always think you are Siddha. The desire of samsara doesn't escape us even in old age. I don't want this samsara.”

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

When there is poison, there is an antidote, a cure for it. When there is an ailment, there is always a medicine for it. If a question comes up, an answer is certainly there for it. So, no need to worry. If we are cold, someone will give us a blanket, if we need money, someone will give us money, we should have such hope/faith. So, do not worry about the future.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Sage Vyasa said - I wrote the Devi Bhāgavatam that has been appreciated by all sages. It removes the sins of samsara, fulfils wishes and dispels grief. O Intelligent One, listening to the story once grants Jñāna (knowledge) and Vijñāna (realisation) and the discernment between truth and untruth. Each episode destroys a demon within us. We have attachment to spouse, children, money etc. All these are delusions. When demons are getting slayed, it means these demons in us are getting slayed. So study with faith and devotion. You will get Jnana and also Salvation.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Once an infant was laying on a banyan leaf with his big toe in his mouth. That infant was Sri Hari. He opened his eyes and wondered who he was and why he was there, and who put him there. Parāshakti took pity on him, and with just half the shloka, Devi gave the answer: “All this is Me, there is nothing more ancient than Me. Knowing this is knowing Me.”

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Sri Hari wondered, “Who spoke to me? Whose voice it this? Man, woman or neutral gender?” Then, Devi appeared in front of Vishnu in a peaceful form - with her four arms she wielded the conch, discus, mace, and lotus. Her face was like the moon, eyes wide and she had a gentle smile.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

We should smile from within. Smiling externally with grief within is fake. You must bear happiness deep within. Always be happy. Smile from within. Don't unnecessarily smile in people's face. They will think something is wrong with you.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Devi’s golden silk sari was shining. She was in Sattvic form. Buddhi, Mati, Keerti, Hrti, Rati, Shraddha, Medha, Svaha, Nidra, Gati, Drshti, Pushti, Kshama, Lajja etc and many more shaktis were around her. Mother was in Lakshmi form and hence was smiling benevolently. Sri Hari again wondered why he was floating on the leaf and why he heard that voice. This seems very strange. Is this a dream, or is she my mother?

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Devi came to him and said: “O Hari, Maya has enveloped you.” Swamiji says - The moment we enter the Mother's womb, we are filled with Maya. “Due to Maya's influence, you have forgotten yourself,” said Devi. All our difficulties, sorrows are due to Maya.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

During Dissolution, Parāshakti is an effulgence that is formless. Devi said - You are Sattvic as am I. Brahma, with Rajo guna, born from your navel will make all the worlds. From his forehead will be born Rudra with Tamo guna. Then, Brahma will create and you will sustain and Rudra will dissolve. You will need my help at that time. I will help you as Sattva shakti. So, accept me and I will always reside on your chest.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Sri Hari asked why he heard the shloka before she appeared. Lakshmi smiled and said, “It was the formless Parāshakti. No one can know or attain her. We cannot easily attain the realisation that we are all Her.” Even Vishnu hadn't attained it yet. Devi continued, “This is truth, trust me. Parāshakti gave you this Upadesha out of affection for you, and to uplift you. She has her full benediction on you. All essence of Devi is in that Maha Vākya. It is the most auspicious and meritorious. There is nothing else to know in this world. She gave you the Devi Bhāgavatam. Always keep that Maha Vakya in your heart. Never forget it. Meditate on it, study it, contemplate it, and it will fulfill all your wishes. That is why Mother gave you that shloka.”

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Lord Vishnu contemplated on that shloka and with that energy later slew the demons Madhu and Kaitabha. From there, it was given as Upadesha to Lord Brahma who gave it to Sage Narada who gave it to me. This sacred text bestows salvation, peace, removes sins and difficulties. So, study this Devi Bhāgavatam. Salvation will be yours.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

“All this is Me. There is nothing more ancient than Me. If you know this, you know Me”. Contemplate on this like Vishnu did. If you realise this, you get all fruits.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Meaning: You are the Mother who gives a form to all the worlds. You give sound to all letters. The effulgence that illumines the letters on the chakras are also manifesting as sound. Mother is the Supreme who is at the centre as Bindu as Sachchidananda Tripura Sundari in Sri Chakra. It is made easy to understand and easy to sing. All bhajans are like Devi Bhāgavatam, like Ramayana, like Mahabharatam, like Upanishads. No other books are necessary. You can study the bhajans and their meanings, then you will understand everything. If you sing the simple bhajans and study the meaning, you will understand.

16_10_23

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/10/16/navaratri-2023-day-2-namasankeertana-discourse-by-hh-sri-ganapathy-sachchidananda-swamiji

Mother Goddess is always kind, giving Jñāna and energy and more and more understanding of Devi. We need good devotion, good energy, good faith and also Shraddha (keen interest). Shradda is very important. Some people are always sleeping. That is Tamo Guna. If you keep thinking of Mother while sleeping, Mother will fill your sleep also. You must be obsessed and mad about Mother within. It should not show outwardly.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

You are putting your summer holidays to good purpose. I am very happy. We played a new tune yesterday (during Sagara Chandra Raga Sagara) based on Appaji’s research. That was successful. I had experimented with that tune on Parvatamma, my aunt, and Jayalakshmi Mata’s sister. She passed away four years ago at nearly 90 years of age. She was a very stubborn lady. She was working and cooking and last minute something happened. She didn’t want to sleep on the bed.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

She did not want any medication or surgery. She refused intubation. She had some money she gave to Swamiji. She used to say - no one can touch the money, it belongs to Swamiji alone. She brought up Swamiji, so she is like a mother to Swamiji. She understood Swamiji’s energy because she is Jayalakshmi Mata’s sister. She knows the story of Swamiji’s birth and energy, His healing to protect people, and how He would sit for days together with door closed, praying for the welfare of others.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Swamiji would touch no food or water at that time. That was a different time. She knows everything. She supported Swamiji’s mission. She died four years ago, before Covid. She was a very nice lady. Very good at heart. She used to practice meditation. She taught children and ran a nursery school. I used to experiment with this tune on her as she had stomach ailment. She had no pain for 6 years after that. The tune is called Vijayanaagari.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

So many people had stomach problem yesterday - that bad energy comes to Swamiji automatically. That is why I am holding a crystal in between you and Me. Sometimes, the crystal takes the energy, sometimes, it comes directly to swamiji. The mind is always alert. That energy will come down this evening around 10pm, until then, the energy will persist. That energy slowly fades after 24 hours. Sometimes, I have cramps in the entire body. I had full body cramps by 2-3am in the morning.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

There is no medication for that. I simply close my eyes and lie down. Medicines are useless. After 1 hour, this subsides a little. You think healing music is a joke. It is very serious and has a serious effect on Swamiji’s body. That is why when you ask Swamiji for a concert, I keep postponing because I want to prepare myself. I already prepared for one more concert, but I will not announce now. I do not know how many seats there will be. Every venue has been ready to give to Swamiji, for concert I was the one who was not giving time.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

They do not know about Swamiji’s energy, but they come and sit in the concert later. Kids have summer holidays now. Do you like the temple here? The idols are very cute. All the Devata (idols) are now coming here.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

(Swamiji directs people to close their eyes and sit in meditation. Swamiji says that is medicine for their body. Swamiji directs them to take long breaths. Do not suppress your yawns. Release them with open mouths. It does not matter if someone is looking. They will run away in fear, you should not hesitate. Open your eyes when you yawn, then the yawns slowly subside. If you need to sneeze, do not suppress. 5 long breaths can make cycle.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

You can open your eyes and take a brief pause after each cycle. So many want to yawn. Release the yawn. It will relax your nervous system. The yawn also indicates you want to sleep. Close your mouth when possible. The cave of the mouth is hard for others to see, so you can close it when possible. When you yawn a lot…open your eyes for sometime to let the yawns subside.)

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Here's the text split into paragraphs with approximately 81 words each, ensuring sentences are not cut off:

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Pujya Swamiji mentioned that for about 24 hours after a concert, Pujya Swamiji experiences severe cramps in the body as the negative energy (from ailments) from the audience is absorbed by Swamiji’s body. Tonight by 10pm, the cramps will be released a little.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

We have deities here in this temple representing the five elements - prithvi/earth, jala/water, akasha/sky, vayu/air and agni/fire. Lord Ganapati (jala and agni), Lord Subramanya (jala and agni), Lord Shiva (jala and agni), Mother Goddess (Prithvi and agni) with the center being akasha tattva. Akasha Tattva represents sarva devatas - all deities. All planets. This temple is a Pancha-bhoota Tattva temple - it represents all 5 elements.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

In the ancient times too, they worshiped different kinds of Gods. This set up here is Vishnu Panchāyatana. In the center is Vishnu. Akasha Tattva is everywhere in various forms. Those who meditate are meditating deeply on Akasha Tattva. Your meditation and silent prayer go to Akasha. In our Upanishadic system, in Kaliyuga, we choose the path of Bhakti. Bhakti - devotion is Parama Prema - supreme love. Parama is the energy behind us. Prema is love.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Parama means no second thought. Give up everything to God. You feel like puppets in His hands, that is the Parama - the Lord is everything, there is no second. We are all acting per our own karma. Regardless of how much Puja and Yajna you do, our destination is the same and our journey is always solo. There are so many rivers...all of them eventually merge into the ocean. We cannot divide the ocean water into the individual river waters.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

All rivers mix in the ocean just as all practices merge in the one God. Everything mixes with Akasha. All Dharmas, all systems merge into Akasha. Do not be confused, you have the freedom to follow what your forefathers handed to you, what your Guru gave you, what the ancient scriptures say. We all finally mix in Akasha. After that there is no Dharma. The ocean has its own quality. The sweet river water does not make the ocean water sweet.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

The powerful Ganga river is big and bears huge energy; it took birth from Lord Shiva, but will also have to merge into the ocean and imbibe the quality of the ocean. “Oh, this is Cauvery river, Swamiji took birth in this river, so the water is sweet”...there is no such thing when it merges in the ocean. Cauvery water is sweet, Ganga has a different sweetness, Drona river, Himalaya rivers etc each have their own taste, but they all merge into the ocean.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Like that, we all mix with God. That is compulsory, but you are practicing it your way, with your thoughts, your way of Puja, meditation etc. No problem, go ahead. So, all these deities will mix with Dahara Akasha that transcends the senses. Some people like Ganapati, some like Vishnu, some Mother goddess. But the root, the source is One. Tameka Devam Sharanam Vrajamaha.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

We took birth as humans. You see different flavors of bread in the shop. You'll see various flavors of rice in the Indian restaurant, but the ingredients are the same. With sugar, you make so many different sweets. Sugar is the same, but different combinations with sugar make different sweets and give different tastes. All of you have that common source ingredient of "sugar". If we don't like the taste of idli, you somehow modify it and add sugar and eat it up.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

So, just as all rivers merge in the ocean, all tattvas merge in Dahara Akasha. Dharma has no start or end. It's like the ball whose start and end point you cannot identify. All Dharmas merge into Him, finally. Remember the shloka in Bhagavad Gita - sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śaraṇaṁ vraja ahaṁ tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokṣayiṣyāmi mā śucaḥ.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Lord Krishna says all Dharmas merge in Him. So, give up all Dharmas and just merge into the Lord. This means the Lord is all Dharmas. God has no gender. He's neither female nor male. We ascribe name and gender. We need some steps to climb up to Daharakasha. These temples, charitable deeds, Annadana are all steps. Not only Puja, but service is also steps to the ultimate. You serve people, He is happy.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

In God's eyes, you all are His children. The one giving and one receiving are both His children. So, the donor and the recipient are both happy. The society is also happy. This is so simple. The donor is happy God is helping him give, the recipient praises God for what he receives. That is why we pray to God - I surrender everything to You. You protect me. We need Parama Prema toward the Lord. Bhajan, Puja, Meditation, studying Mahabharata, giving charity, service to the poor are all parts of sadhana.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

He likes all these very much. Each one may choose a different bhajan. We have no right to dictate to others. You can pick any sweet you like from the sweet shop. But remember that the ingredient in the sweet is sugar. So too whatever you choose, there is Paramatam in it. We sing bhajans, we chant mantra, we chant Bhagavad Gita, we chant Sundarakanda, Kavacha Manjari, Vishnu Sahasranama, Lalita Sahasranama (which I like), we perform Shiva Abhishekam...I can do any of these that gives me satisfaction.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

What Swamiji is saying is that you can follow any path in Kaliyuga without inconveniencing yourself or your family, and truthfully and peacefully reach God. The path of Bhakti is the greatest. I told you the entire Bhagavatam now. It might seem like what I'm saying now is different, but the core is the same. The business that the shop does is the same, but the decorations and lighting may change and you think the business is different.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Unless there are changes and attractions in the subject, children will not easily hold on to it to the subject. Swamiji follows many ways for Dharma Prachara. For example, when you listen to Bhajan Babies, you are already listening to Divya Nama Sankeertana. The beginning of creation there was only Omkara. Ganapati's form is like the Omkara sign in Sanskrit. Ganapati is the first letter in this creation. Singing bhajans is very healthy.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

It gives good oxygen. Laughing too is very good for you. It gives you oxygen. I have seen many people sit glum. You must laugh. Some do not laugh at all even when you wish them. I do not know why. It is so nice when you laugh. We need oxygen in our body, our heart needs oxygen. Laugh more. Prana is our invisible God. Vayu is protecting that invisible God. Without Prana, we do not exist. When Prana leaves, the body drops.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

So, we must protect Prana, Prana is itself God. There are so many different ways of protecting Prana and developing longevity. Do not always keep crying. You always sit on the sofa and grieve. Let whatever happens, happen. You must face everything bravely. Of course when someone dies, do not go to the grieving, and dismiss it as a natural occurrence. You must empathize with their sentiments. When you lose someone, you must pretend you are crying for the sake of the public. If not, they will curse you.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

There are some non-translatables in Telugu...like the sound of laughter that is used to indicate how heartily one laughed. Some terms are non-translatable; if you keep repeating them over and over, the meaning changes. You must understand such things with the body language. This upcoming bhajan is a vedanta bhajan with a beautiful meaning. Bhajan ID 419: dāsapōṣā dōṣamōṣā dvēṣadūra kathā.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Shiva form is only Bindu. Shiva has no form. Bindu is represented by Linga, like Salagram. So, we sang Ganapati and Shiva bhajans. Now we sing Subramanya Swamy bhajan. There are 6 Subramanya Swamy pilgrim centers in India frequented by millions of devotees. This is a Tamil bhajan. Bhajan ID 1363: murugā murugā muttukumāranē Tamilnadu people like this bhajan.

20_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Bhajan ID 8434: nā..gaśayana nārāyaṇa This is only the second time Pujya Swamiji is singing this bhajan. Swamiji previously sang this in Tirupati.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Here is the text split into paragraphs with approximately 81 words each, ensuring sentences are not cut off:

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Bhajans heal the mind and bhajan (food) heals the body. I am very happy today, this place has the good fortune of witnessing Swamiji’s Srichakra Puja. You heard Vedic chants and Vishnu Saharanama during the Puja. You all know about Swamiji, no need for further elaboration. Bhakti is key in Kaliyuga. In every Yuga, the path is different. In the first Yuga, it was Tapas. In the second, it was Dhyana, Karma in the third. In this Yuga, it is Bhakti. Maharishi Narada strived a lot to propagate Bhakti.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

First, some people think Bhakti means fear of God. There is no need for fear. Second, people have desires. It is not Bhakti when you pray for wishes to be fulfilled. People pray for money, family’s success, etc. They always want something. They beg the Lord for something, that is not Bhakti. So, what is Bhakti then? Building temples, doing Annadana? That’s not Bhakti either. So what is Bhakti? Bhakti is Parama Prema - supreme love. Love is not enough; it should be supreme love.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

There should be no difference of ‘you’ and ‘me’. One should be ready to even give up the body. That is very difficult in this Kaliyuga. We are not maharishis to do that. We are householders beset with desires and anger. We have to experience all our karma. We should show the path to our children and those who look up to us or are dependent on us. We should keep doing whatever our duty is. We should fight this battle of life.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

This (planet) is karma bhoomi. Without Karma, we cannot get Jnana. Everyone must do karma, whether you are a yogi, bhogi, or Tyagi. While you do karma, you must gain Jnana. You do not become a sanyasi by giving up work and simply praying to God. You must do the needful for your children to settle down, then your mind will be at peace. Once they settle down, you must focus on yourself and not keep worrying about them.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

It is very hard to find peace in Kaliyuga. It is very difficult to have the mindset to let the children find their path (most parents hanker after their grown-up children and their lives). Old age is very hard for everyone. It is not easy to be happy during old age. If you want to be happy at that age, you must follow Guru, follow the spiritual path and do your sadhana and abhyasa now. Then, Dana/charity, Tyaga/sacrifice, and Satya/truth will develop in you.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Your children will also learn that. Science and worldly education will automatically come to your children (from school). But during old age, you wonder whether you taught your kids any spirituality after having taught them all worldly education. You did not follow spirituality, so your kids did not either. If you do it, the kids will follow by your example. In this Kaliyuga, that is when you can reduce the effect of Kaliyuga a little. Otherwise, you will suffer the influence of Kaliyuga.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

God is everywhere; He is in shila/stone as well. That is the message of Lord Narasimha who emerged from a stone pillar. Second, no one conceived that form that Lord Narasimha took - half man and half lion. Not even Brahma thought of it. It happened spontaneously. The Lord is teaching us that serving others is serving God. If you do good to others, that is service to God. The Lord is in all beings. If the being is satisfied, the Lord is satisfied too.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

You are also a being. During Covid, for example, it was very hard for people. No one knew who was dying. Families could not even see the dead bodies of their dear ones, let alone perform the final rites. Many died like orphans with no one to cremate the bodies. If you want a good life, you must teach your kids spirituality right from when they are in the womb. When Prahlada was in his mother’s womb, he heard Narayana Mantra from Sage Narada.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Garbha sanksara must be done for the child in the womb to be healthy and spiritual. Why should we perform Archana and worshipful services to God? Do we need to offer flowers, Naivedya, and other services? God is the one who feeds all beings; why does He need Naivedya? We do this to practice concentration. When we chant mantras or focus on puja, we might have concentration for 10 minutes. This Puja is not a joke or a child’s play.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

This is performed to develop mental concentration. This is also a Satsang. When we attend a wedding, we eat and leave. But this is Satsang. You all can join together - a few families to do Satsang. It’ll be good for you and your ancestors. 4-5 families can come together and do a Satsang alongside your social gathering. I like Bhojan as much as Bhajan. So, there is Prasadam for everyone. We will see you tomorrow in the temple.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

The consecration of the small shrines is very special. All of you can come. Wherever Swamiji goes, the place improves. Swamiji is like Vamana, slowly step by step, places get bigger. May Lord Datta remove all your mental ailments. Desires are the mental ailments. You wish for something today and forget it tomorrow. But every desire of yours, the Lord remembers and will fulfill. So, you will have to take more births to experience them.

18_07_24

https://www.dattapeetham.org/speeches/2023/7/20/benedictory-message-by-parama-puja-swamiji-at-chicago-trinity-datta-yoga-center

Therefore, you must have no desire at all. Just wish for the strength to face whatever God gives you. You make a wish today and tomorrow try to present the same wish in a different manner. God fulfills all presentations. Very dangerous. Be careful. Do not have any desires. Pray to God saying, “give me whatever You want.” Do not worry.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

Jaya Guru Datta. oṃ namo hanumate namaḥ. śrī mahā ganapataye namaḥ. śrī sarasvatyai namaḥ. śrī pādavallabha narasimha sarasvati. śrī guru dattātreyāya namaḥ

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

The New Jersey Bala Datta group is growing. Last time too you all gathered here despite it being a working day. Satsanga is very, very important in our lives. We can learn a lot through Satsanga. The first lesson is to slow down and be peaceful. The second lesson is to adjust to situations. From Satsanga, we evolve to Nissangatva (non-association), but that is different.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

First, we need patience. Patience is the greatest penance. Satsanga teaches us patience. Second, it controls our intellect. We must control our intellect, mind and senses and unite them. It is very hard to do that. Only with Pranayama do they sometimes unite. Some people feel like they can unite the three, but soon realize they are inconsistent and go out in search of truth. They are confused.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

It is very harmful for health to have a mind that is so fickle – it is happy sometimes, unhappy sometimes, is plagued by doubts at other times and so on. This certainly affects our health. Our blood pressure is affected and that slowly brings a host of diseases to our body. Why? Because, we have no patience. We have no satisfaction. We have no happiness. We are always grieving.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

We should give up that grief. Do not compare against others and grieve. Compare against yourself and be happy with what you have. Rise step by step. We cannot grow overnight. Even God as Vamana grew step by step slowly before he occupied all the worlds with his three steps. Why cannot man be patient? We want instant results. How can life work like this?

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

Mentally, we expect that everything must work at the push of a button. We leave what we have and go in search of something else. This creates problems for us. We lose what we had and we cannot get what we search for. We do not want to wait even two minutes. You want to cross the street in a hurry. Two minutes will not cost us anything.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

But you want to ask Swamiji your question and get results right away. You plant a tree and expect fruits immediately. You must wait a few years. How can you get results as soon as you see Swamiji? That will not happen. Your mind has to ripen before you get the results. I need to know you and you need to know me. You marry and you divorce, all very quickly.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

So, Satsang teaches us peace and patience. Then, it teaches us contentment. There are great benefits in Satsanga. It is not about just getting together, talking, eating and leaving. During Satsanga, you must think and talk about Vedanta. In Bala Datta classes, you are learning our tradition. The Bala Datta group must grow. Send all your children to Bala Datta classes.

09_07_22

https://www.dattavani.org/pravachana-malika/datta-vaakya/datta-vaakya-2022/july-2022/july-9-2022/

Children must learn patience and discipline early in life. Religion is secondary; they must first learn discipline. You are all (including adults) children and have lots to learn. When children learn patience, they will absorb more of what they are taught. Sage Bharadawaja kept asking for extension of his lifespan so he could learn more of the Vedas. He asked for 2000 years once, 5000 years once and so on.