Lord Krishna and The 'Narayana Astra'

When Dronacharya was killed in the Mahabharata war, his son Ashwathama became very angry. 

He shot the 'Narayana Astra' - a terrifying, disastrous weapon on the Pandava army. 

None could stop it. 

It could immediately destroy and burn those who had weapons in their hands or were seen trying to fight. 

Lord Krishna, knowing that the Narayana Astra did not attack unarmed people, ordered Pandava's army to leave their weapons on the ground and stand still and quiet with folded hands. 

He said, "Do not even bring the thought of war into your mind as that could also destroy you". 

Everyone followed his command and did what they were told to do.

Narayana Astra gradually calmed down when its time expired. 

In this way, the Pandava army was saved. 

Battles are not just about attack and counter-attack. 

Some battles are won by staying put and remaining quiet.

In today's trying times, in order to escape the wrath of nature, we all need to stop going out for some time, remain calm and quiet, stay in our homes and keep the good in mind, and let things pass.

Stay safe and positive and we will emerge victoriously.

Promote what you like

'Promote what you like and what you love -

instead of bashing and criticizing what you don't like.

When we criticize people for their system; for what they do, then we give them also a reason to find flaws in our system as well. As they say: what goes around comes around and what you sow so shall you reap.

Every system is based upon certain beliefs. 

No system is foolproof and one can certainly find faults in every system. The concept of ‘Right and Wrong’ is (mostly) based upon each individual’s perception- according to his or her social, cultural, and religious background and education. Everyone has a right to follow his or her beliefs. 

The clash occurs when we ‘order’ others what to do and what not to do; when we demand that everyone must follow our beliefs and we try to control their day-to-day activities.

Baba Avtar Singh ji saw the reason for the clashes among individuals and groups; between cultures and religions and hatred for others on the grounds of different beliefs and lifestyles.
So, when he founded the new organization in the name of Sant Nirankari Mission, he laid down the following third principle for the mission:
“Everyone's lifestyle is according to their culture, beliefs, and family backgrounds. 

Do not hate or criticize anyone on grounds of what kind of food they eat or drink, how they dress or live their life.” 

In other words: follow your path according to your own beliefs and Gyana, the divine knowledge, but do not criticize or try to control others.

Ultimately, everyone is only responsible for their own actions and devotion - their own Bhakti and understanding of the Gyana.
Therefore, instead of constantly judging others, we should try to go deep in our own minds to contemplate and see where do we stand and how far are we in achieving our goal. 
                                                ‘Rajan Sachdeva’

Let's not spread fear

The ultimate goal of Gyan (true knowledge) and Bhakti or devotion is to attain freedom from fear.
                      Ya mati saa gatirbhavait

As we think, so it happens - so is the outcome.             

                                                                (Ashtavakra Geeta)

However, even if we think we can not control the outcome, we can still choose what to think and what not to think.

Therefore, let's choose - not to submit to fear - nor to spread fear among others.
Collective fear is more dangerous than individual fear.

Let's choose not to participate in creating fear by forwarding every negative and depressing message we receive on social media - as many of them are false and exaggerated anyway.

Instead, choose to send prayers, hope, peace, and energy to heal the world.

                                                         'Rajan Sachdeva '

Umbrella vs Newspaper

Recently I read a story that while going to his workplace, a man bought a newspaper from a newsstand. 

Suddenly, it started to rain. He quickly unfolded the newspaper and held it over his head like an umbrella. 

Though he saved himself from getting wet, the real purpose of the newspaper was lost. 

It was wasted.

The newspaper was supposed to be read - to know about the surroundings - to learn from it.

Had he read the newspaper earlier, then he might have seen the weather forecast and taken an umbrella with him. Then he could have equipped himself better for the rain and enjoyed reading the paper, and enhanced his knowledge as well. 

Perhaps it relates to many of us too. 

Perhaps, we also want to use the Gyan in a similar way. 

Instead of pondering over it to contemplate and conceive the Gyana deep within, we use it as a means of protection from unwanted circumstances and sufferings, and for the fulfillment of worldly desires.

Just as, though it may protect from rain momentarily, the real purpose of a newspaper is different. Similarly, the real purpose of Gyana is to help us change our thought process and lifestyle and be prepared to accept the Truth as it is.                          

Duniya ki yahi rasm hai दुनिया की यही रस्म है

Duniya ki yahi rasm hai, Rumi ho ya Shaami 

Sultaan ki ghulaami, kahin mulla ki ghulaami

दुनिया की यही रस्म है - रुमी हो या शामी 

सुल्तान की ग़ुलामी - कहीं मुल्ला की ग़ुलामी 

The poet says: 

These are the ways of the world -

Everyone is bound in some kind of slavery -

Either in the slavery of Shami - kings and ruling authorities

or the slavery of Rumi - the religious authorities and leaders. 

Surprisingly, No one truly wants to have freedom.

Rumi     =   Hazarat Rumi - A Sufi Imam or Maulavi (Muslim Priest)

Shaami = of Syria  

in Biblical times, Arab, Egypt, and many other neighboring countries were ruled by the king of Syria. The whole region was known as Shaam. 

The laws, language, and the subjects of this region were called Shaami.

Shaami, in this context, simply means under the rule of a king or a person of authority.

Happy Ram Navami

Some people consider Lord Ram to be an incarnation of God
While some others doubt and question his existence.
In their view, the story of Ram is only a fantasy - a made-up epic story.

And yet there are some, who, instead of perceiving the good qualities and virtues, are only trying to find his shortcomings and flaws.

To know the truth - to understand Lord Ram's saga, one needs a vision of Gyana - proper knowledge.

If we accept all the things that are written about him as true, then there will be two outcomes.
Either he will appear to us as an Avatar of God - i.e. God himself in a human form.
Or some people will consider Ram to be discriminatory - unfair and biased - especially against the women and Shudras and start raising their voice against him.
Both of the above statements can be considered as an exaggeration.
This happens only when the reader accepts everything written as true - as factual reports.

The truth can only be known by diving deep - by trying to understand and learn the real message behind the events and metaphors. 

Lord Rama is called Maryada Purushottam.
Purushottam - means the best or highest among men.
That is, his life is commendable - model and exemplary.
Lord Ram is not only a matter of pride - but also a great model for humanity.
His life presents an ideal for us to follow.
If we consider him only as our ideal or just an object of worship - but do not follow the path shown by him, then it will not benefit us or the society in any way.

Although there are many things in the life story of Lord Rama - there are many exemplary ideals - but his greatest virtue is considered to be obedience.
Not only to his father but also to his mother.
And not obedient to his real mother only, but also to his stepmother
He could have refused to obey his father and stepmother.
In fact, his father King Dashratha never told him to go into the forest - rather, he begged him not to leave the home.
Lord Ram could have stayed in his palace if he wanted to - but he did not. 

He went into the forest.
In this way, he avoided the possibility of a mutual confrontation between his brothers which later emerged as a fierce war between brothers in the Mahabharta period and caused massive destruction.

Even today, a brother's confrontation with his brothers is a prominent problem.
This confrontation can be avoided - but for that, the big brother will have to go to the forest - metaphorically speaking.
But today no 'big brother' is ready to go into the forest.
Any elder - be they a parent or a leader or an administrator - no one is ready for any kind of sacrifice but the irony is that they still say that they believe in Lord Rama - that Lord Rama is their role model.

Apart from adhering to obedience, other great qualities of Lord Rama are acknowledged in his bravery, purity, and love for all.
In fact, These three qualities represent all the qualities of humanity.
Bravery means, not only protecting the weak but control over one's own mind as well.
If Ram did not have self-control, and mastery over his mind, then he would not have left his palace and gone to the forest.

In purity - in holiness, chastity, and sacredness, along with the purity of body and mind, the realization of God and Dharma - that is, the sense of duty and its implementation is also included.
Dharma- the sense of righteousness and the right conduct is also an essential part of Pavitrta or chastity.

Along with love, the attributes of mercy, peace, patience, and forgiveness will automatically come into one's nature - because love is not possible without these virtues.

Those who love will also have the spirit of sacrifice and divine qualities - because love demands patience, tolerance, offerings, and sacrifice.
The virtue of Love and sacrifice creates true respect in people's hearts and minds and makes one immortal and memorable.
The greater the sacrifice - the greater reverence, devotion, and pride for the person will be in the hearts of the people.

Chanting Rama's name reminds us of Lord Rama - a reminder of his life and deeds.
The name of Rama should be incorporated with his virtues and Karma. In other words, if we face a similar situation then we should try to do the same thing that Lord Rama did.
Lord Rama should not appear in the mind only, but also through karma.

This should be the real message of Rama-Navami and the way to celebrate it.

                            ' Rajan Sachdeva '

राम नवमी की शुभ कामनाएँ Happy Ram Navami

कुछ लोग भगवान राम को ईश्वर का अवतार मानते हैं 

और कुछ लोग उनके आस्तित्व पर - उनकी होंद पर ही शंका करते हैं और सवाल उठाते हैं। 

उनके विचार में राम की कहानी केवल एक कल्पना मात्र है।  

और कुछ ऐसे भी हैं जो राम के गुण न देख कर केवल उनकी कमियां और त्रुटियां ढूंढने में लगे रहते हैं।  

सच्चाई को जानने के लिए - राम को पहचानने के लिए  ज्ञान की दृष्टि चाहिए। 

अगर हम उनके बारे में लिखी गई सारी बातों को ज्यों का त्यों सही मान लेंगे तो दो परिणाम होंगे। 

या तो वह हमें  ईश्वर का अवतार अर्थात मानव रुप में स्वयं ईश्वर ही दिखाई देंगे।
या फिर कुछ लोग श्री राम को इस्त्रियों और शूद्रों के साथ भेदभाव और अत्याचार करने वाला समझ लेंगे और उनके ख़िलाफ़ आवाज़ उठाने लगेंगे ।

उपरोक्त दोनों ही बातें अतिश्योक्ति हो सकती हैं। 

ऐसा तभी होता है जब पाठक उनके बारे में लिखी गई हरेक बात को ज्यों का त्यों सही मान लेता है। 

राम को मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम कहा जाता है।  

पुरुषोत्तम - अर्थात पुरुषों में सबसे उत्तम। 

अर्थात उनका जीवन आदर्शनीय एवं अनुकरणीय है।  

भगवान राम हमारे लिए केवल गर्व की बात ही नहीं बल्कि हमारे  मार्गदर्शक भी हैं। 

उनका जीवन हमारे लिए एक आदर्श पेश करता है जिस पर चलना हमारा कर्तव्य है। 

यदि हम उन्हें केवल अपना आदर्श मान लें - लेकिन उनके दिखाए मार्ग पर नहीं चलें तो उससे हमें या समाज को कोई लाभ नहीं होगा। 

यूं तो भगवान राम की जीवन कथा में बहुत सी बातें हैं - बहुत से अनुकरणीय आदर्श हैं - लेकिन उनका सबसे बड़ा गुण माना जाता है उनका आज्ञाकारी होना। 

केवल अपने पिता का ही नहीं बल्कि अपनी माता का भी 

और केवल अपनी सगी मां का ही नहीं बल्कि अपनी सौतेली मां का भी। 

वे चाहते तो अपने पिता और सौतेली माता की आज्ञा मानने से इंकार भी कर सकते थे। 

बल्कि उनके पिता राजा दशरथ ने तो उन्हें वन में जाने की आज्ञा दी ही नहीं थी - वो तो उन्हें रोकते ही रहे। 

यदि राम चाहते तो रुक सकते थे - लेकिन वे नहीं रुके। वे वन में चले गए। इस तरह उन्होंने अपने भाइयों के बीच होने वाले उस आपसी टकराव की संभावना को टाल दिया जो बाद में महाभारत काल में एक भयंकर युद्ध के रुप में उभरा और भारी विनाश का कारण बना।

 

आज भी भाई का भाई से टकराव एक बड़ी समस्या है। 

यह टकराव टाला जा सकता है लेकिन उसके लिए बड़े भाई को वन में जाना पड़ेगा। 

लेकिन आज कोई 'बड़ा भाई' वन में जाने के लिए तैयार नहीं है। 

कोई भी बड़े - चाहे वो माता पिता हों या कोई लीडर अथवा अधिकारी - किसी भी किस्म के त्याग और बलिदान के लिए तैयार नहीं हैं लेकिन अजीब विडम्बना है कि फिर भी वह कहते हैं कि वे भगवान राम को मानते हैं और भगवान राम उनका आदर्श हैं। 

मर्यादा पालन के अतिरिक्त भगवान राम के अन्य महान गुणों में वीरता, पवित्रता और प्रेम की चर्चा होती है।

असल में ये तीन गुण मानवता के सारे ही गुणों का प्रतिनिधित्व करते हैं। 

वीरता का अर्थ निर्बल की रक्षा करने के साथ साथ स्वयं अपने मन पर नियंत्रण भी है। 

यदि राम में स्वयं-नियंत्रण का गुण - अपने मन पर अधिकार नहीं होता तो वह राज-पाट छोड़ कर वन में कभी नहीं जाते। 

पवित्रता में शरीर और मन की पवित्रता के साथ ईश्वर और धर्म का बोध - अर्थात कर्तव्य का बोध और उसका निर्वाह भी जुड़ा हुआ है। 

प्रेम के साथ साथ दया, शांति, धैर्य और क्षमा के गुण भी इंसान के स्वभाव में स्वयं ही आ जाएंगे क्योंकि इनके बिना प्रेम संभव ही नहीं है। 

प्रेमी का जीवन त्याग और बलिदान के गुणों से भी युक्त मिलेगा क्योंकि प्रेम बलिदान मांगता है।

प्रेम और बलिदान से मिलता है जगत में सही सम्मान और अमरत्व। 

जितना बड़ा बलिदान होगा - उतना ही बड़ा और गौरवपूर्ण उसका स्थान होगा लोगों के दिलों में। 

राम का नाम राम की याद दिलाता है - उनके जीवन एवं कर्म की याद दिलाता है। 

राम के नाम को उनके कर्म से जोड़कर देखना चाहिए। यदि हमारे सामने कोई वैसी ही परिस्थिति आए तो हमें भी वही करने का प्रयत्न करना चाहिए जो भगवान राम ने किया था।

भगवान राम केवल मन में ही नहीं बल्कि कर्म से भी प्रकट होने चाहिएं। 

यही संदेश है राम-नवमी का। 

What we can or can not choose?

"You don't get to choose how you're going to die, or when. 

  You can only decide how you're going to live"

                                                            ' Joan Baez'

Recently, I saw the above quote by an American singer.

It is a very profound statement. 

To come to think of it, we did not choose when and where to be born.

We did not choose our parents or the country and the place of our birth - nor we can choose when and how our life will end.

Similarly, we can neither pick and choose to erase the events of our past - nor we can choose the circumstances and events of our future.

But we can choose and decide what to do now - in the present moment. 

Living in the present moment does not mean that we completely forget the past or do not think about the future at all.

It simply means that we do not keep on living in the past all the time - continually dwelling on the glories or regrets of the past - nor keep on just dreaming and fantasizing about the future. 

It's what we do in the present that decides the fate of our future. 

It means, to secure a better future, we must plan and work accordingly in the present.

Ultimately, it's up to us to choose how we want to live our lives - which principles and standards we hold and follow to elevate ourselves.

We need to continually evaluate what's deep inside our mind - by continually and sincerely observing our thoughts and desires, not subjectively, but objectively - as an observer. Which is classified as Sakshi-Bhaava in Bhagavad Geeta and the Upanishads.  

                                       'Rajan Sachdeva'

 

Kathopanishad - Story of Nachiketa - part 12

                                         Swarg Lok

Nachiketa says:
              Swarge Loke Na Bhayam kinchanaasti
              Na Tatra Tvam, Na Jarya bibheti
              Ubhe TirtvaAshnaaya Pipaase
              Shokaatigo Modatay Swarglokay  

            स्वर्ग लोके न भयं किंचनास्ति
            न तत्र त्वं - न जरया बिभेति
           उभे तीर्त्वा अशनाया पिपासे
           शोकातिगो मोदते स्वर्गलोके 

                                     (कठोपनिषद 1 -12)

                 
In Heaven, there is no fear of any kind.
Neither you (death) are there, nor the fear of old age.
Having crossed both - hunger and thirst
Being above grief, one rejoices in Heaven.
                                                (Kathopanishad 1-12)

This is a brief but precise and beautiful description of the Swarg or Heaven.

‘In Heaven, there is no fear of any kind’
By restraining both - hunger and thirst, 

and rising above grief, one rejoices and enjoys in heaven.

When we say, A is equal to B, it implies that B is also equal to A.
Saying that ‘there is no fear of any kind in heaven’ - would also mean that the moment we do not have any fear, of any kind – of a person, people or situation, present or future, being unsuccessful or failure, of old age or even death - we are in the Heaven.

Nachiketa, even at such tender age, had a great deal of knowledge of the Scriptures. He must have known that pleased with their devotion, whenever Lord asked the devotees to ask for any boom, most of the ancient sages and Bhaktas, including Bhakt Dhruva and Prehlad asked for one thing only… and that was ‘Abhaya Daan’- Fearlessness. They knew the secret that living in the state of 'fearlessness' is in fact, living in the 'kingdom of Heaven'. 

Therefore, instead of asking for anything else - or even a granted entry into Swarg as a reward for their sacrifice, devotion, and meditation, they asked for fearlessness. 

Nachiketa says:
“Neither death is there, nor the fear of old age”

Besides disease and poverty - besides the fear of not being able to provide food and shelter for oneself and his family - everyone has a concealed fear of old age and death in their mind. 

Disease, old age, and death have been the main fear and matter of concern in the history of mankind. 

Since the beginning of civilizations, scholars and scientists have been trying to find ways of conquering disease, old age, and death, or at least to extend the lifespan through medicines and surgeries, etc.

History is full of numerous stories of powerful people, kings, and rulers who searched and hired some great wizards of their times to perform certain rituals or to make some potion that will make them stay young forever and immortal.

Nachiketa says, even both these greatest fears of old age and death are not present in Heaven.

Gurubani also continued to preach the same concept of fearlessness...
"Tere sevak kau Bhau Kichhu nahin, Jam nahin aave Nere"
(Your (God's) servant fears no one - even (fear of) death does not come near (them) 
                                                 (M- 5 Page 749)

"Nirbhau bhaye Sagal Bhai Khoye Gobind charan otaai"
I have become fearless - all fears have departed.
The holy feet of the Lord of the Universe is my only Shelter.
                                                     (M -5 Page 1000)

Nachiketa says:
'Swarge Loke Na Bhayam kinchanaasti'
In Heaven, there is no fear of any kind.

And
"Having crossed both - hunger and thirst …"

Now, this phrase may create confusion in some people’s minds. 

They may translate it as connecting to physical hunger and thirst and this could be one of the reasons for the rituals of fasting - to control and cross over the normal limits of hunger and thirst.
In fact, some teachers and scholars do translate this Mantra saying that one must cross the normal limits of hunger and thirst by practicing to ‘fast’ for longer periods of time… with absolutely no food or water for several days or even weeks.
They say that one, who can achieve control over hunger and thirst, would get entry into Swarg Loka.

However, the Upanishads are Spiritual Scriptures.
Spirituality, as the name suggests, is about the mind and spirit...not about the physical body.
Therefore, instead of translating it in terms of the physical body, we should try to understand its meaning by connecting it to mind and spirit.
The next line of this Mantra makes it more clear that this is not about physical hunger, but about mental hunger and thirst.
                       “Being above grief, one rejoices in Heaven”

We know one cannot control and rise above grief simply by controlling the physical hunger or thirst.
When struck with grief over a great loss – or the death of a family member or a beloved friend, one does not feel hungry or thirsty at all. Friends and family members have to force them to drink water and eat some food. Obviously, by simply ‘having crossed over physical hunger and thirst", one may not - and does not rise above Grief.

Therefore, it should be understood as "Having crossed hunger and thirst of mind - that is the hunger for power and lust - praise, recognition, respect, and obedience, etc.

                     "Without any feeling of grief, one rejoices in heaven".
There is no grief in heaven.
In other words - where there is no grief, sorrow or worries, and affliction - it is heaven. 
                                             "Rajan Sachdeva"

(To be Continued)

It's all about perspective

We don't always see the same thing as other people.
It's all about perspective.
The same object or the same incident can be seen differently by different people.
A happy person would see the drops of morning dew on the flower petals as beautiful pearls while a sad, crying person might relate them to his own sorrow and perceive them as tears - thinking that nature is also crying with him.

A poet looks at the full moon and starts writing and singing a beautiful poem with fancy, flowery words to describe its beauty while a scientist looks at it simply as a huge rock - a mass of matter orbiting the earth.

We might be looking at the same object or same event under the same circumstances, and yet, we might perceive it differently than the person standing right next to us. Because everything is perceived according to the previous knowledge, understanding, and personal experiences of the observer.
Therefore, one of the most important tools in getting along with other people is to remember that they might not be thinking in the same way as we do.
Instead of arguing and trying to authenticate and prove our own point of view, we should recognize and accept that their experience might be different than ours.
We may hold on to our views but at the same time, we should respect everyone else's views as well.
After all, besides knowledge, we all live on certain beliefs, concepts, hopes, and expectations in our own ways.

                                                   ' Rajan Sachdeva ' 

Some Interesting Statistics

The current population of earth is around 7.8 billion.

For most people, it is a large figure - that's all.

However, someone has condensed the 7.8 billion people in the world into 100 persons -

and then into various percentage statistics.

The resulting analysis is relatively much easier to comprehend.

Out of 100:

5 are in North America

9 are in South America

11 are in Europe

15 are in Africa

60 are in Asia

~~~~~     ~~~~

49 live in the countryside

51 live in towns and cities

~~~~~     ~~~~

77 have their own houses

23 have no place to live.

~~~~~     ~~~~

21 are over-nourished

63 can eat full meals

15 are under-nourished

1 ate the last meal but did not make it to the next meal.

~~~~~     ~~~~

The daily cost of living for 48% is less than two US dollars.

~~~~~     ~~~~

87 have clean drinking water

13 either lack clean drinking water or have access to a water source that is polluted 

~~~~~     ~~~~

75 have mobile phones

25 do not

~~~~~     ~~~~

30 have internet access

70 do not have conditions to go online

~~~~~     ~~~~

7 received university education

93 did not attend college.

~~~~~     ~~~~

83 can read

17 are illiterate.

~~~~~     ~~~~

33 are Christians

22 are Muslims

14 are Hindus

7 are Buddhists

12 are other religions

12 have no religious beliefs.

~~~~~     ~~~~

26 lived less than 14 years

66 died between 15 and 64 years of age

8 are over 65 years old.

 ~~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~

So, 

If you have your own home,

Eat full meals and drink clean water,

Have a mobile phone,

Can surf the internet, and

Have gone to college,

You are in the minuscule - a small privileged lot - in the less than 7% category

Amongst 100 persons in the world, only 8 can live or exceed the age of 65.

If you are over 65 years old, Be content and grateful. Cherish life, grasp the moment.

You did not leave this world before the age of 64 years like the 92 persons who have gone before you. 

You are already blessed amongst mankind.

Take good care of your own health and life because nobody can care about you more than yourself!

Cherish every moment you have. 

                           (Author unknown)

Happy New Bhartiya Year - Vikram Samvat 2078

Happy New Bhartiya (Indian) Year - Vikram Samvat 2078

Known as Baisakhi in North and Central India, Navreh in Kashmir, Rongali Bihu in Assam, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Vishu in Kerala, Pana Sankranti in Odisha, and Poila Boishakh in Bengal, Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra.

If you think I have hurt you in any way in the past - by my words or deeds - directly or indirectly through my speech or action, then I would like to apologize and seek your forgiveness.

Let us all welcome together Vikram Samvat 2078 and pray to Almighty God that the coming year would be auspicious and prosperous for everyone.

Har Saal aata hai - Har saal jaata hai 

Is saal aapko vo sab milay Jo aapka dil chaahta hai 

हर साल आता है - हर साल जाता है 

इस साल आपको वो सब मिले  - जो आपका दिल चाहता है 

Jo Gareeb son hit Kray

Jo Gareeb son hit Kray, Dhan 'Raheem' tay log
Kahaan Sudaama Bapuro - Krishn Mitaai Jog
                                                  'Abdul Raheem'

Raheem says that they are blessed who treat the poor equally - with love and respect.

What did poor Sudama and King Krishna have in common?

Was poor Sudama worthy of Krishna's friendship?

Usually, after acquiring wealth, power, and sovereignty, people want to have relations with rich and influential people only and begin to see their old poor friends and relatives as lower and inferior to them.

They consider it an insult to keep any relationships or associations with them.

But blessed are those who do not change even after obtaining wealth and sovereignty.

What did Krishna and Sudama have in common?

Krishna had become a king now, but Sudama remained extremely poor.

Still, Krishna did not forget his old friend Sudama nor did his behavior change towards him.

Even after becoming the king, Krishna continued his old friendship and love in the same way.

He did not take pity on Sudama - considering him to be poor and helpless.

He did not send his servants to ask Sudama to sit on the doorsteps and wait for the king. 

Rather, he himself ran barefoot to the main gate to receive Sudama - brought him inside with love and respect and made him sit on his own throne. 

Then he sat on the floor in front of Sudama and washed his dust-covered muddy feet with his own hands.

This is called greatness. This is called nobility.

It is worth noting that Krishna's greatness is not from the fact that he was a Maharaja - a king.

His greatness is that despite being a king, he embraced his poor old friend in front of everyone with no shame or embarrassment. 

He placed him on a high throne and in no way tried to show off his royalty and aristocracy  - nor he let Sudama feel his smallness in any way.

He helped him with money and everything but did not make it look like an act of pity or favor to him in any way.

Krishna's greatness is not even in the fact that he is the Jagat-guru or has millions of followers.

Rather it is that even though Arjun became his disciple after the Geeta-Updesh (sermon), Krishna still became his charioteer.

He did not consider his insult to become the charioteer of his own disciple.

Krishna, not only explained the deep ideologies of Samkhya and Yoga - including Jnana and Bhakti Yoga through the Bhagavad Geeta, he also taught Karma Yoga to the world by his own karma; action - with modesty, and humility.

                                   'Rajan Sachdeva'

जो ग़रीब सों हित करें - धनि ‘रहीम’ ते लोग

         जो ग़रीब सों हित करें  -धनि ‘रहीम’ ते लोग।
         कहां सुदामा बापुरो - कृष्ण मिताई जोग॥

शब्दार्थ :
रहीम कहते हैं कि वह धन्य हैं जो ग़रीबों से भी प्रीति रखते हैं।
उन्हें याद रखते हैं और उनसे हित अर्थात प्रीति निभाते हैं।

कहाँ ग़रीब सुदामा और कहाँ राजा कृष्ण। 

उनमे क्या समानता थी? 
भला बेचारा सुदामा कहीं कृष्ण की मित्रता के योग्य था?

भावार्थ :
अक़्सर लोग धन एवं शक्ति और प्रभुता पाने के बाद केवल अमीर और प्रभावशाली लोगों से सम्बन्ध रखना चाहते हैं और अपने पुराने ग़रीब मित्रों - सम्बन्धियों को निम्न दृष्टि से देखने लगते हैं - उनके साथ संबंध रखना अपमान समझते हैं।
लेकिन वह लोग धन्य हैं जो धन और प्रभुता पाने के बाद भी नहीं बदलते।

कृष्ण और सुदामा में क्या समानता थी?
कृष्ण तो अब राजा बन चुके थे लेकिन सुदामा दरिद्र ही रह गए।
फिर भी कृष्ण अपने मित्र सुदामा को नहीं भूले और न ही उसके प्रति उनका व्यवहार बदला।
राजा बन जाने के बाद भी उन्हों ने अपनी पुरानी मित्रता और प्रेम को उसी तरह से निभाया।
सुदामा को ग़रीब और असहाय समझ कर कृष्ण ने उस पर दया नहीं की - दरबान के द्वारा उसे बाहर की डयोढ़ी में बैठ कर प्रतीक्षा करने के लिए नहीं कहा। बल्कि स्वयं उन्हें लेने के लिए नंगे पाँव भाग कर मुख्य द्वार पर आए। अंदर ला कर उन्हें अपने आसन पर बिठाया और उनके मिट्टी से सने पाँव स्वयं अपने हाथों से धोए।

यह होती है महानता। इसे कहते हैं बड़प्पन।

विचारणीय है कि कृष्ण की महानता इस बात से नहीं है कि वह कोई महाराजा थे ।
उनकी महानता इस बात में है कि महाराजा होते हुए भी बिना किसी लज्जा और शर्म से सबके सामने उन्होंने अपने ग़रीब मित्र को गले से लगाया - उसे ऊँचे सिंहासन पर बिठाया और किसी भी तरह से सुदामा को अपने बड़प्पन अथवा उसके छोटेपन का एहसास नहीं होने दिया।
धनादि से उसकी सहायता की लेकिन किसी भी तरह से कोई एहसान नहीं जताया।

कृष्ण की महानता इस बात में भी नहीं है कि वह जगत-गुरु थे या उनके लाखों अनुयायी थे।
बल्कि इस बात में है कि हालाँकि गीता-उपदेश के बाद अर्जुन उनका शिष्य बन गया था, इसके बावजूद भी कृष्ण उस के सारथी बने।
कृष्ण ने अपने शिष्य का सारथी बनने में भी अपना अपमान नहीं समझा।

जहां एक ओर कृष्ण ने सांख्य और योग की गहन विचारधाराओं - तथा ज्ञान एवं भक्ति योग को गीता के माध्यम से समझाया तो वहीं स्वयं अपने कर्म से संसार को कर्म योग की प्रेरणा भी दी।
                               ' राजन सचदेव '

Higher Thinking Needs Depth

Higher Thinking means thinking and exploring beyond the obvious - knowing that there is more to what meets the eye. 

Just as a higher tower needs a deeper foundation, the higher thinking is based on going deep within.

Although studying and listening can enhance our knowledge and thought process, however, thinking is an internal matter. The deeper we go within in silence, the higher will be our understanding of the Self. 

On the superficial level, we see and think of ourselves as a physical body, and the materialistic world around us as the means of our survival, comfort, and pleasure. 

But when we go deeper - beyond the superficial level of our sense perceptions and observations, we discover the unity of all things and start seeing oneness everywhere around us. 

We start seeing unity in diversity. 

However, as long as we live in the physical world, diversity can not be overlooked and disregarded altogether. 

But at the higher level of thinking, one can see the diversity as it is. 

He can accept the differences and disagreements without any bitterness and anger. 

Knowing that there is some unity at the deeper levels - he can respect everyone's views and beliefs without feelings of hatred or animosity towards anyone.

Just as when the water heats up, it leaves all its impurities behind and turns into steam, and starts to rise higher. 

In the same way, an enlightened mind leaves all petty differences and diversities behind and starts climbing into the higher plains of thinking.

                                                       ' Rajan Sachdeva '

Bhagavad Geeta - in one sentence per chapter

                    BHAGVAD GEETA 

                in one sentence per chapter...

                               Chapter 1

Wrong thinking is the only problem in life

                              Chapter 2

Right knowledge is the ultimate solution to all our problems

                               Chapter 3

Selflessness is the only way to progress & prosperity

                              Chapter 4

Every act can be an act of prayer

                              Chapter 5

Renounce the ego of individuality & rejoice in the bliss of infinity

                             Chapter 6

Connect to the Higher consciousness daily

                            Chapter 7

Live what you learn

                            Chapter 8

Never give up on yourself

                          Chapter 9

 Value your blessings

                         Chapter 10

See divinity all around

                         Chapter 11

Have enough surrender to see the Truth as it is

                        Chapter 12

Absorb your mind in the Higher

                       Chapter 13

Detach from Maya & attach to Divine

                      Chapter 14

Live a lifestyle that matches your vision

                     Chapter 15

Give priority to Divinity

                   Chapter 16

Being good is a reward in itself

                 Chapter 17

Choosing the right over the pleasant is a sign of power

                Chapter 18

Let Go - and move to union with God

                      (Author unknown)

Do Miracles Happen?

A miracle is not an incident in itself.
It is how we see it - how we perceive a situation or define an incidence.

Animals act on instinct - Humans live on hope, faith, and logic.
Humans have the capability of imagination.

Only we, the humans can think rationally and try to find a cause behind every incident - to find the reason and purpose of everything we experience.

When we are unable to find a solid or substantial reason for a specific incident, we call it a coincidence or a miracle.

A person, who escapes a deadly accident by a narrow margin, may call it a coincidence.
However, a person of faith would like to think and call it a miracle and would give its credit to a specific higher power that he or she believes in.

Ironically, if an enemy or someone whom we do not like - who we think has done some wrong to us - gets into an accident and faces some injuries or a loss - then we also call it a miracle - that God has punished them to show that they were wrong in doing what they did to us.

So, it is really how we observe and define an incident according to our own perception.
As someone rightly said:
If you believe then everything is a miracle and if you don't - then nothing is a miracle.
                                         ' Rajan Sachdeva '

Don't Repeat History

From the Web

Courtesy of Jimmy ji

Walking is the best exercise

Walking is the best exercise

Walk away from the arguments that lead to dispute, controversy, anger, and animosity. 

Walk away from the desires that can not be fulfilled.

Walk away from thoughts that steal away your peace of mind.

Walk away from people who do not want you. 

There is no need to get heartache over those who do not see your value in their life. 

Walk away from expectations. 

Expectations create cravings and longings.

Unfulfilled expectations cause sorrow and grief.

They cause anger, regret, bitterness, and pain.

So walking away from unwanted - unfriendly, hostile, and awkward situations - is the best exercise to stay happy and in peace.  

                                           ' Rajan Sachdeva '

कश्ती तो वही है मगर Kashti to vahi hai

कश्ती तो वही है मगर दरिया बदल गया

मेरी तलाश का भी तो ज़रिया बदल गया

न शकल ही बदली न बदला मेरा किरदार
लोगों के देखने का नज़रिया बदल गया

Kashti to vahi hai magar dariya badal gayaa
Meri talaash ka bhi to zariyaa badal gayaa

Na shakl hi badali - na badlaa mera kirdaar
Logon kay dekhnay ka nazariyaa badal gayaa

                                          'Writer unknown'

उसको छोटा कह के Usko chhota keh kay

अपने हर इक लफ़्ज़ का ख़ुद आईना हो जाऊँगा
उसको छोटा कह के मैं कैसे बड़ा हो जाऊँगा

Apnay har ik lafz ka khud aaina ho jauunga 
Usko chhota keh kay main kaisay badaa ho jaaunga

Vision without Action

Vision without action is just a dream.

Action without vision is fruitless.

When we put Vision and Action together 

It can make a difference.

Facing the change

Changing the Face changes nothing

Facing the change can change everything

April Full

 APRIL full of God's Blessings

Some call it APRIL FOOL 

But for you and your beloved family 

And everyone in the world

                                   I wish  APRIL FULL of ..........

APRIL full of God's Blessings

APRIL full of God's Favour

APRIL full of God's Mercy

APRIL full of God's Joy

APRIL full of God's Greatness

APRIL full of God's Abundance

APRIL full of God's Goodness

APRIL full of God's Honour

APRIL full of God's Goodies of life

APRIL full of Progression in life

APRIL full of  Productive Ideas

APRIL full of Purpose for your life

APRIL full of Promotion

APRIL full of Good Health

APRIL full of Financial Breakthrough

APRIL full of a Closer Walk with God

APRIL full of God's Help

 I wish you and your beloved family 

a month of FULLNESS in everything in your lives

An April Fool for you

Here is an April Fool for you 

                                   

 May your Life bloom and spread fragrance

    like a Gulaab ka Fool - a Rose flower