Photo dogma & degeneration + 3 more

Baba

Photo dogma & degeneration

Namaskar,

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Prakrtiliina - those who worship idols, ascribing Brahma-hood to that idol, “thinking that the very idol is God, the very image is God”; worshipping stone, worshipping wood, worshipping metals.” (1)

Those who think that the photo of Baba is actually Baba act in the following manner:

(a) They will only do sastaunga pranam in front of the photo thinking that the photo itself is Baba. If there is no photo they will not do sastaunga pranam.

(b) If they want to request Baba to grace them then they must go and sit in front of the photo thinking that the photo itself is Baba. If there is no photo then they will not request His grace because they do not think that Baba is present.
https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/

More about those who think Baba is the photo

(c) If they want to offer food to Baba they will bring that food in front of the photo - thinking that the photo itself is Baba - and then stick food on the photo where Baba's mouth is in the photo. Or they will place a plate of food in front of the photo and request Baba to eat. Whereas if the photo is not there they will not offer any food to Baba. Because if the photo is not there then according to their perspective Baba is not there - i.e. not present.

(d) If they wish to touch Baba's feet they will walk to the Baba photo in the puja room - thinking that the photo itself is Baba - and place their hands on that part of the photo that shows Baba's feet. And if there is no photo then they will not try and touch His feet as that can only be done with a photo. Because without the photo Baba cannot be present.

(e) If they want to pay homage to Baba in any way then they must walk over to where the photo is - thinking that the photo itself is Baba. And if there is no photo they think that Baba is not there so they will not pay homage to Him.

(f) And there are many more things they will do going close to that photo thinking that the photo itself is Baba.

(g) Finally, if one margii is going to Ananda Nagar, Tiljala, or Jamalpur, they will request that margii to convey their pranam to Baba at the tomb, Baba Quarters, or Tiger’s grace etc. Because they think that Baba is there, i.e. not with them.

But this approach is dangerous. To understand why this is dangerous, please continue reading.
https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/


They become one with prakrti - wood, metal, stone

Be sure to pay attention to the highlighted yellow section from Baba’s teaching as that is central to understanding the point at hand.

Ananda Marga ideology states, “Prakrtiliina - those who worship idols, ascribing Brahma-hood to that idol, “thinking that the very idol is God, the very image is God”; worshipping stone, worshipping wood, worshipping metals. Tantra says,"

Mrcchiládhátu dárvádi murtáviishvarabaddhaya.

Mrt means “earthen image”; shilá means “made of stone”; dhátu “made of metal”; dáru “made of wood”. And they ascribe Godhood to that wood or to that metal or to that stone. Then what does happen? He is ideating on that stone, or wood, or metal. Then what does happen?

Yádrshii bhávaná yasya siddhir bhavati tádrshii

A man adopts the body according to his object of ideation.” His own self is transformed into that entity, the entity which was his object of meditation. Now these men worshipping different forms of Prakrti finally take the form of those entities - become stone, become wood, become metal. They are called prakrtiliina. They become one with Prakrti and remain there for an indefinite period. What a durdaeva, I will say! What a painful state of existence! (1)

In His above teaching Baba is sounding the warning that those “thinking that the very idol is God, the very image is God” will be converted into prakrtiliina - and suffer the horrifying effects of being converted into matter.
https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/

If you think the photo is actually Baba...

Those who think that the photo of Baba is actually Baba should understand that this approach is dangerous. Essentially, such persons think that the photo or holy tomb is actually Baba and that the physical photo / tomb is the way to communicate with Him. Such sadhakas are like idol worshipers who think "that the very idol is God, the very image is God." Sadly, they will suffer and become prakrtiliina.

Because they are ideating on the physical materials (paper, glass, wood, plastic etc) that comprise the photo. They think the photo is Baba just like those prakrtiliina who think "that the very idol is God, the very image is God." So their mind will be converted into those limited physical objects. They are not ideating on that all-pervading Divine Entity Parama Purusa Baba. So for them the future is bleak. That is the unfortunate story.

And here are more details about how they behave: 

- If they want to pay homage to Baba in any way then they must walk over to where the photo is - thinking that the photo itself is Baba. And if there is no photo they think that Baba is not there so they will not pay homage to Him.

- And there are many more things they will do going close to that photo thinking that the photo itself is Baba.

- Finally, if one margii is going to Ananda Nagar, Tiljala, or Jamalpur, they will request that margii to convey their pranam to Baba at the tomb, Baba Quarters, or Tiger’s grace etc. Because they think that Baba is there, i.e. not with them.
https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/


Conclusion:
Baba’s photo is just photo of Baba, not Baba Himself

Rational Ananda Margiis understand well that the photo is just a photo of Baba, not Baba Himself. Just as you know that a photo of yourself is not actually you - rather it is a photo. They know that the gateway of communicating with Baba is through the mind, by His grace. That means they communicate with Baba mentally - sharing their feelings and asking His blessing in dhyana, sadhana, etc. And throughout the day - wherever they are - they feel Baba is there along with them. When far from their puja room they do not think that they are separated from Baba. They internally feel His presence, regardless of their physical location and where the photo is. For them, their entire mode of linking with and seeing Baba is internal. At the same time they pay due reverence to the photo. Yet they know that the photo is just a photo of Baba and not Baba Himself. Just as you know that a photo of yourself is not actually you - rather it is a photo.
https://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/

The highlighted yellow section of Baba’s teaching makes it clear that those who think "that the very idol is God, the very image is God” or that the photo is actually Baba Himself are in grave danger.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Sukhadeva

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, Ghosts and Evil Spirits
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 3, Ghosts and Evil Spirits

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Guru’s krpa explained

Ananda Marga ideology states, "What is Krpá? In Saḿskrta, the root verb is “kr”. “Kr” means to help one in one’s progress even when one does not deserve it. So if one deserves it, that is, if one has the qualification to get oneself fully developed and fully exalted, then in that case there is no necessity of krpá, there is no necessity of help from Táraka Brahma. But when one does not deserve it, when one has not got the qualification for development, and still one is helped, that sort of help is called “krpa”." (1)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "A spiritual aspirant should not do spiritual practices to become omniscient. Rather, a spiritual aspirant is to perform spiritual practices to satisfy Parama Puruśa in the form of Parama Guru. That is why it has been rightly said: Guru krpá hi kevalam [“The grace of the Guru is everything”]." (2)

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 2, Guru Krpáhi Kevalam
2. Yoga Psychology, Bio-Psychology

== Section ==

দুধ খাও, ওই জুজু আছে

“ছোট ছেলে দুধ খাচ্ছে না, ৰাড়ির লোকেরা, “দুধ খাও, ওই জুজু আছে, তাল গাছে জুজু আছে, ধরে নেৰে” | তুমি জুজুর ভয়ে খেয়ে নিলে দুধ | তারপরে এই তুমি যখন দু ৰছরের নয়, তুমি হয়ে গেলে ৰাইশ ৰছরে, তখনও সেই মনের জুজুটা রয়ে গেল | কখনও-কখনও স্বপ্নে সেই জুজুকে দেখৰে একলা যেতে গিয়ে জুজুর ভয়ে ৰুক কেঁপে উঠৰে | এরা হ’ল কি ? চাপিয়ে দেওয়া ৰন্ধন |” (1)

Reference
1. Subhasita Samgraha, part 17, chapter 12

== Section 3: Links ==

Recent Postings

• Intimacy of sadhana

• 6th lesson mantra

• Female issue

• Really Golden Rule?

• Is Milarepa story applicable?

Other topics of interest

• How to advance your dhyana
  

• Those early days
  

• Altered photo ruining dhyana

Precious time with Baba + 4 more

Baba

Precious time with Baba

Note: This letter is only for those who have reverence for Sadguru Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji and try to follow His Ananda Marga ideology.
 
Namaskar,
 
Here is one of the many highly memorable occasions when Baba would make us all smile and laugh and thereby bring us closer to Him. Despite our faults and despite our limitations, through His immense warmth and love, and yes, by making us laugh, we would feel that whatever we may be in this world, certainly we are His and He is mine. That was one of the very special ways in which Baba would make us all feel close. Below is one of the scenes which I recall.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Reception & Baba's arrival
 
At one particular DMC that I attended, a huge crowd of margiis and workers were anxiously awaiting Baba's auspicious arrival. The pandal was completely full and everyone present was involved in singing and dancing kiirtan. All were in a blissful flow and the intimate spiritual feeling was mounting more and more as they expected Parama Purusa Baba to come any moment.
 
Then suddenly one Dada started shouting and the kiirtan came to a distinct halt. Another Dada immediately began raising the slogan, "Parama Pita Baba Ki!", and everyone exclaimed "Jai". Again and again the slogan was raised: "Parama Pita Baba Ki - Jai!"
 
The volume and vibration of the pandal was increasing and everyone knew that at any moment Baba would be coming. The slogan was raised one more time and then we could all see Baba entering onto the stage. Cries of "Baba, Baba" could be heard all around and still the slogan was going on, "Parama Pita Baba Ki- Jai!!". The whole pandal was charged and vibrated by His presence.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
As Baba walked slowly across the stage surrounded by His entourage, He passed His cane to one Dada and majestically sat down on the dais. Quickly another Dada came forward to remove Baba's shoes. As Baba moved onto the center point of the dais, one or two Dadas were involved in arranging the side pillows of His seat. Then, for a second time, Baba brought His hands together and gave His blessing across the entire pandal.
 
Everyone was feeling waves of bliss as Baba looked in their direction. Then one Dada approached Baba with a mala and garlanded Baba and then did sastaung pranam. Everyone was completely focused on Baba - watching His every gesture and move. Baba then began giving some directions to a few Dadas who were by His side and then they took leave and went from the dais.
 
Next Baba looked out across the sea of margiis and in a smiling manner He said, "How are you - everything is alright?"
 
Then everyone present simultaneously replied, "Yes, Baba!"
 
Baba looked to be in a very jolly mood and that heightened everyone's happiness and joy. In successive order Baba performed blessings for newly married margiis and distributed prizes to various workers and margiis.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
 
Display of kaoshikii & Baba’s humorous response
 
Immediately thereafter, per the system of DMC, there was a call for brothers’ kaoshikii. Baba smiled and turned slightly towards His left and looked over in their direction.
 
One Dada could be heard saying, "Dhin dhin dhin, dhin dhin..." and on that count the brothers' kaoshikii dance began. Actually those brothers had not been practicing kaoshikii recently. They already thought that they were the best dancers of kaoshikii - better than others - so they internally felt that there was no need to practice. This was the outlook they had cultivated. They felt a sense of entitlement. With this attitude they started dancing.
 
Since it was the time of DMC there was a big crowd. And those brothers were dancing as if they were already perfect at kaoshikii etc. This was their inner feeling.
 
Baba was smiling towards those brothers who were dancing. After a minute or two, the call came "Halt!", and all the dancers immediately stopped, thinking they had done it flawlessly.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
Normally, the sisters would then be signaled to start their kaoshikii. But on this particular occasion, Baba was smiling and still looking over towards those brothers who had just completed their dance. So everyone's focus was in that direction. Then in a jolly manner and in a smiling way Baba very reassuringly spoke the following:
 

"You know the kaoshikii dance displayed by the boys was very good - (Baba was still smiling)

"--with the exception of a few points."
 
Then in a charming way Baba said:
 
"The teamwork was not so good; the angular bending was not so good; and, there was actually no rhythm."
 
Then in a jovial mood, Baba concluded:
 
"With the exception of these three points, it was very good." (AV (Pure) - 49, PD #273, “The Path of Excellence”)

 
All laughed
 
Hearing Baba's dramatic delivery and humorous words, we all laughed - everyone laughed - and this laughter continued for several seconds. We were all charmed by His manner. Side by side, in a very benevolent way, those dancers got the message that they were not exempt from practicing. In their heart of hearts, they understood that they should refine their movements and dance with a sense of surrender - not ego. This was the great benefit they received, by His grace.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
By this way, by Baba's humorous response, all felt loved and cared for, and everyone understood in the depths of their heart that, "I am His child and regardless of how my performance is, always He loves me and finds a way to help me progress." We all felt very close to Baba.
 
 
A few takeaway points from the story
 
There are a few things we can all understand from the above story.
 
1) Baba was giving the encouragement that no one should feel dejected by their performance and that He recognises the sincerity of their effort and gives everyone His love and affection.
 
2) Baba wanted that everyone present - whether they were dancing or not - should improve the standard of their kaoshikii.
 
3) If Baba would have just appreciated the performance and not pointed out the defect in their dance, then no one would have been aware of their mistake and by that way those dancing and those watching would continue their poor way of dancing in the future.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
4) If Baba had only scolded these new margiis then they might think that doing kaoshikii was beyond their reach and they also would not feel close to Him.
 
5) But in a special way, He appreciated their effort and guided them for their improvement.
 
Really in that moment everyone felt loved, cared for, and close to Baba. Such is the effect of His radiant Presence and special words. Thereafter, the DMC program took its course and the sisters danced kaoshikii and the brothers tandava and after that Baba announced, "The subject of today's discourse...". And always we will remember that in spite of how poor the kaoshikii dance was, Baba found a way to appreciate their effort and everyone laughed and felt close. So Baba has a unique way of making the entire atmosphere blissful.
 
Baba is not only Guru but He is our Father and in His each and every expression He is very close and sweet. How can we forget those moments. And to this very day, whenever I close my eyes then I remember that special time and I feel His close proximity. And that gives me the energy to move forward.
 
Namaskar,
Sastaunga Pranam to Baba,
Suvidya'
 
~ In-depth study ~

Create a heartfelt link
 
As the Divine Father, Baba has come on this earth to give ultimate salvation by decreasing the distance between He and His children. He has come to create an intimate closeness with bhaktas and encourage all to come even closer and still more close.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 
Being Parama Purusa and the most Magnanimous One, Baba would always create a heartfelt link with bhaktas which would automatically melt the gap between His supreme greatness and our ordinary selves. And one of the wonderful ways He would accomplish this was by using humour and tender expressions with bhaktas. By making everyone laugh and smile, sadhakas would immediately feel more relaxed and closer with Baba. This was the very sweet and gracious way in which He would communicate with bhaktas.
 
Each and every margii has their own personal experience of closeness with Him and by that way they could feel His sweet touch; and, those who could not get this feeling could not remain. Every new or old margii has their own experience and realisation, and even today He is with us.


Take advantage of the opportunity
      
By Baba's sweet grace we will all realise the height of human glory and live life divine and reach up to Him.
 
Ananda Marga ideology states, "Do not forget your life; do not forget the path; the path is very noble, very beautiful, and it is for you to know that, it is for you to realize that, so do it from today. Do not leave it for tomorrow, tomorrow may not come for you. Who knows? The sun may not rise for you tomorrow. No one can say who is going to live from today till tomorrow. It is up to Him to decide. So as long as we are here today, let us try to take [advantage] of this opportunity and do sa'dhana' and follow dharma; thereby you will know Him, [you will complete] the beautiful journey of knowing Him. So let us know Him today. In this way we will be able to provide paths for human beings to come. Animals also are marching ahead to know that Supreme Entity. So it is our duty to make the way, to pave the way, in order for everyone to come on this path. Realize Him. Realize that Supreme Being within you. This is your dharma, this is your path; and let this path be yours, and victory will surely be yours." (1)

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 31, Dharma Sádhaná

Plagiary?

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

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

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

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

This will be treated as the standard protocol.

--

Warning about plagiary

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

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

2) The individual who steals gets degenerated and it sets a bad example in the social sphere.

3) It impedes social progress as others will not be inclined to pursue new and original work as they think that others will just steal it.

4) It breeds a society of lethargic people who will always wait for others to create something new. It is just like those who are lazy in the kitchen do not cook - just they wait for others to prepare food and then they steal it away and devour that food.

5) Countless stories of bhaktas need to be published. But some do not want to do the hard work of compiling and writing these stories, so they just steal them from others. But new stories need to be told, otherwise so many unpublished stories of sadhakas will be lost and forgotten forever. So watch out for story thieves, and kindly help them not to steal by posting on social media in their own way, with their own name etc. This is plagiary.

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Sympathizer vs dharmika

The Supreme Command states, "...Every Ananda Margii will have to perform sadhana twice a day invariably; verily is this the command of the Lord..." (1)

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Dharma is the assemblage of all your conduct” – the way you eat, the way you speak, the way you perform sa'dhana'. If your conduct is good, dharma is with you; if your conduct is not good, dharma is not with you. And if dharma is not with you, what comes about is your sarvana'sha, or sarva'tmaka vina'sha – that is, your physical, mental, and spiritual ruin....Conduct is the principal factor in dharma.” Be a sadácárii, a person of good conduct, and you will surely attain Paramátman." (2)

Note: If one donates 2% of their income to Ananda Marga service projects then it does not mean that they are therefore an Ananda Margii. Donating money or paying tithes also does not make one an Ananda Margii. To be a dharmika (an Ananda Margii), one’s lifestyle should be wholly consistent with the ideals of Ananda Marga, i.e. bhagavad dharma. Those who give money and live a different sort of life can be thought of as sympathizers, but not as dharmikas, i.e. as Ananda Margiis.

Greatest donor

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The most important point to consider is who has utilized his or her ability and to what extent. Hanuman [the mighty monkey, a bhakta of Rama in the mythological epic the Rámáyańa] fetched huge boulders to build a bridge across the sea, while the squirrels collected small pebbles. Yet intrinsically both these actions have the same value. We have no right to question anybody's sincerity, nor can we scoff at it. We cannot give more appreciation to those who have not utilized their potentialities properly but have done more work than to those who have fully utilized their talents." (3)

References
1. The Supreme Command
2. Subhasita Samgraha - 21, Niiti and Dharma
3. Human Society - part 1, Social Justice

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Key question and only answer

Ananda Marga ideology guides, "Those who have fallen today may become evolved people, great personalities in the future – mahápuruśas. This is why no one should ever be disappointed in life. Parama Puruśa is calling everyone and He will continue to call everyone: all shall find a safe shelter on His loving lap. He does not hate or neglect anyone. Hence the only answer to the question, “kasya tvam” – “Whom do you belong to?” – is: “I belong to Parama Puruśa, to Him and Him alone, because I have come from Him and I am in Him, and finally I will return to Him.” And the only answer to the question, “Kuta áyátah” – “From where have you come?” – is: “I have come from Parama Puruśa and I will go back to Him. He is my permanent abode.”" (1)

Reference

1. Subhasita Samgraha - 12, To Whom Do You Belong? Where Do You Come From?

AND HERE ARE FURTHER MATERIALS:

*************************************

Everlasting Unity:

Very Beginning Of A Child's Life

"In Ananda Marga the seed of a common ideal is sown from the very beginning of a childs life. At the age of five, when the child has acquired only a preliminary understanding of his or her surroundings, he or she is given the idea of Brahma [the Supreme Entity]. The entire society of Ananda Marga is thus founded on a common ideal or goal – Brahma. This foundation will never be lost like the dangers of war. Such an ideal will not disappear like the common ideal of facing the dangers of war; so the unity in a society founded on the ideal of Brahma will be everlasting." (AFPS-7, Social Psychology)

*************************************

उनकी कृपा से आज ऊषा की लालिमा लिये हर वस्तु

प्रभात संगीत 4647: तमसा काटिछे विहग डाकिछे, पूर्व तोरणे...

भावार्थ

उनकी कृपा से आज पूर्व में सूर्य  निकला और अंधकार दूर हो गया, पक्षियों ने चहचहाना प्रारंभ कर दिया। ऊषा की लालिमा लिये हर वस्तु आकर्षक  और मधुर लग रही है। नये युग का द्वार खुल गया है। ए मेरे भाई बहिनो! तैयार हो जाओ नींद और तंद्रा में मत रहो, ए बच्चो जागो उठो! ए संसार के लड़के लड़कियो! जड़ता और स्थिरता का जेल तोड़कर बाहर आ जाओ। अब यह हमारी ड्युटी है कि हम पूर्वकाल के ऋषियों द्वारा प्रारंभ किये गये महान कार्यों को पूरा करें। हमे सतर्क रहकर नव्यमानवतावाद का दीपक सदैव प्रकाशित करते रहना है। बाबा की कृपा से आज सब अंधकार और जड़ता चली गयी है और एक नया उज्जवल युग प्रारंभ हुआ है।


Following is the phonetic spelling in Roman Script of the above purport:


Unakī kr̥pā sē āja ūṣā kī lālimā liyē hara vastu

prabhāta saṅgīta 4647: Tamasā kāṭichē vihaga ḍākichē, pūrva tōraṇē...

Bhāvārtha

unakī kr̥pā sē āja pūrva mēṁ sūrya nikalā aura andhakāra dūra hō gayā, pakṣiyōṁ nē cahacahānā prārambha kara diyā. Ūṣā kī lālimā liyē hara vastu ākarṣaka aura madhura laga rahī hai. Nayē yuga kā dvāra khula gayā hai. Ē mērē bhā'ī bahinō! Taiyāra hō jā'ō nīnda aura tandrā mēṁ mata rahō, ē baccō jāgō uṭhō! Ē sansāra kē laṛakē laṛakiyō! Jaṛatā aura sthiratā kā jēla tōṛakara bāhara ā jā'ō. Aba yaha hamārī ḍyuṭī hai ki hama pūrvakāla kē r̥ṣiyōṁ dvārā prārambha kiyē gayē mahāna kāryōṁ kō pūrā karēṁ. Hamē satarka rahakara navyamānavatāvāda kā dīpaka sadaiva prakāśita karatē rahanā hai. Bābā kī kr̥pā sē āja saba andhakāra aura jaṛatā calī gayī hai aura ēka nayā ujjavala yuga prārambha hu'ā hai.

== Section 2: Links ==

Upcoming Festival: Ananda Purniima - Thurs, 23rd May

• #1: Festival preparation

• #2: AM festival: all-inclusive

• #3: Upcoming festival: dos & don'ts

• #4: Auspicious occasion

• #5: Utsava: new joy & vigour

• #6: Greatness & pitfalls of AP festivities

• #7: Greedy celebrations
  

Baba stories

• Story: Teaching BNK meditation

• Baba story: ERAWS reporting

NH buried under groupism + 2 more

Baba

NH buried under groupism

Namaskar,

Today's group fight is 100% about groupism and has nothing to do with ideology. They are not standing up for margii rights, sanctity of scripture, and other dharmic issues. Rather, they are fighting over land, resources, post, power, money, jagrtis, and buildings. Their fight is cent per cent selfish. There is no higher ideal in mind.

Due to their rigid adherence to their groupist battle plan—and not Ananda Marga adarsha—they have also forgotten Ista. Because when one's mind is involved in selfish desires in the form of power and prestige, then it is impossible to think of serving Ista. That is the stark irony of today's group battles. They justify to themselves and others that, "Baba is on my side", yet the tragedy is they have left Ananda Marga ideology and drifted from Ista.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com


That is the very sad and unfortunate state of affairs going on now in our AMPS. What Baba warned us about in 1971 with those two Buddhist camps has been a living reality in our Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha  these last several years. The current clash in AMPS has nothing to do with ideology and everything to do with factional power. Indeed this has been the running theme of our Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha in this post-1990 era. Let us hope that things change soon, by His grace.


Past struggle vs. present infighting

We must recall that life in our Marga was not always like this. Rather, in the past, all our struggles with outside enemies were for the establishment of Ananda Marga ideology. By Baba's grace, we fought and were victorious over communists, religious fundamentalists, and so many other negative parties. And our fight with them was never personal; it was for the spread of bhagavata dharma, i.e. Ananda Marga ideology. Thus each struggle and subsequent victory led to the great establishment of universal dharma.

In stark contrast, there is not a shred of ideology or welfare in today's group clash. There is not an ounce of dharma involved. Rather, day by day ideology is on the wane as the flag of groupism reigns. This terrible state spells the destruction of AMPS, if we are not careful and allow it to continue.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

Myth: Baba is on my group’s side

Today's group clash has been marked by killings, beatings, sexual exploitation, embezzlement, theft, casteism, nepotism, physical abuse, distortions, thievery and the fight for resources and land. AMPS has turned into a war zone. So much destruction has occurred. Yet all the while, the various group camps think that, "Baba is on my side and soon we will get victory." This is their outlook.

But now, by His grace we know what is true. Just as Baba points out how the fight between the two Buddhist factions represented the demise of ideology (see in-depth study), we are witnessing the same misfortune nowadays in AMPS. The group clash itself means the loss of ideology, and the subsequent loss of Ista as well.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "Suppose somebody has no ideology in his life and for a moment forgets his ‘Ista’, he will degrade. So the wise man will always remember that he has to follow the ideology and more important, the ‘Ista’." (1)

Some say that they are doing for Baba, but by the practical expression of their groupist campaigns, it is plain as day that they have fallen from the path of neo-humanism. They are thinking of the victory of their self, their group, clan, caste, not universal welfare.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

Group clash is cancerous

While there are many problems and issues in our Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha, this group clash is the worst problem. It signifies the loss of ideology. So this is the biggest issue—the most dangerous disease. For us, this group clash is cancer. It kills.

It should be repeated: The reason why the present group clash is cancerous for us is that it represents the loss of ideology. In the face of group power struggles, ideology is forgotten—and along with it Ista.

The most pressing task at the moment is to end this groupist conflict - not by creating a peace proposal and merging the various camps, but rather by bringing Ananda Marga ideology to the fore. When that is done, there will be the victory of dharma.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com


Group leaders use deception

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "Never do anything only to serve the interest of the party. Whatever you do should be for the benefit of the mass, for the welfare of the people in general." (2)

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "Where there is no propagation of satya people indulge in individual selfishness or group selfishness. The aim or object there is not enlivened with the idea of collective welfare. The only object of the party concerned is how to establish oneself in this material world by means of the use of well-knit language and cunningness." (3)

Baba says, "It is necessary to mention that although through the path of analysis one’s self-interest may be served, and even the group interest may be temporarily served, but the path of analysis [division] cannot be conducive to human welfare on a permanent and comprehensive basis." (4)


Conclusion

I have deep love and respect for all in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha. And we have to work together to establish Guru’s mission. That is why it is so difficult witnessing what is going on now. Today is not the time to blame, but to awaken, realise, and march side by side holding the flag of ideology.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com

For the all-round success of our AMPS, strictness in Ista and faith in Taraka Brahma are highly needed—otherwise spiritual life will just remain as a utopian ideal. Proper adherence to ideology (adarsha) is also needed. If either of these points are missing then the wheels of dharma cannot move ahead—neither in personal life nor collective life. This present group clash has drawn in both margiis and wholetimers. The main problem is that those Wts are involved in supporting a particular group and have wholly forgotten Ananda Marga ideology. The moment one is strict in Ista and adarsha, then any remnants of a group fight will be a thing of the past.

Namaskar,
in Him
Sudhakar

Factional vs ideological fight

What Baba has recounted in His Purnea DMC teaching from 1971 is highly applicable to what is unfolding nowadays in our AMPS. All the various groups share the same Ista, but they have gone to war with one another for their personal gain—thereby losing Ananda Marga ideology. Instead of adhering to the neo-humanistic principles of Ananda Marga adarsha, such groups have adopted selfish tactics—the race for name, fame, post, power & prestige.

And just as those Buddhist parties were praying to Buddha for their own victory, nowadays in Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha the various camps also believe "Sadguru Baba is on my side and therefore my camp shall be victorious". But when any party strays from Ananda Marga ideology, then how can such a party gain Baba's favour. They cannot.
http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com


~ In-depth study ~

Groupist leaders forgotten AM ideology

~ A link to Baba sound file has been appended below in the Links section of this email. ~

At Purnea DMC in 1971, Baba blessed us with a unique teaching that is highly applicable to the state of affairs these days in AMPS.

Baba says, "In [1936], a war was going on between two countries, the citizens of which have the same religion (Buddhist). When the soldiers went to war, their mothers used to pray to Lord Buddha to save the lives of their respective sons. What will Lord Buddha do? Save this man or that man? Both have the same ‘Ista’, but both parties have totally forgotten their ideology. If they were established in the ideology, they would not have gone to war." (5)

All are aware that our AMPS organisation has been divided along factional lines. And all the main parties are thinking that, "Baba is on my side and that I will be victorious", and in that way they continue their fight.

Yet in His teaching from Purnea DMC (1971), Baba clearly warns that if one engages in such battles for post and power then it means they have fallen away from ideology, in which case they will lose Ista also.

That is the very real concern that all in our AMPS should consider—especially those of our brothers and sisters involved in the factional fighting.

In this era of infighting one must take a moment to reflect on how far they are truly serving Ista and adarsha, or giving way to factional interest.


Both parties have forgotten their ideology

In the above teaching, Baba is clearly stating that both Buddhist groups lost their ideology. The proof being that the two camps went to war against each other for their own petty gains—each praying to Buddha to gain victory over the other. Thus, despite being followers of the same ista, they began fighting for their own selfish agendas instead of following the high ideals of Buddha.


Not to look behind

By Baba's grace, the call of dharma is being heard all around. Instead of getting befooled by factional propaganda, true Ananda Margiis have set their sight on advancing AM ideology.

Ananda Marga ideology says, "O human beings! be established in the radiance of divinity and the splendour of valour and chivalry, because yours is the path of revolution. Your path is not the path of extra caution and scheduled movement. You are the traveller of a rugged path. You are travellers of an impregnable path. You have to march ahead proudly with the flag of Marga upright. You have no time to stagger or to look behind." (6)

Here is the sound file: https://archive.org/details/Purnea1971BabaIsOnMySide

References
1. Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 20, Ideology, Goal and Devotion
2. Tattvika Diipika - 2 (Dvitiiya Parva), Tattva Sabhá
3. Táttvika Diipiká - 2 (Dvitiiya Parva)
4. Prout in a Nutshell - 12, Service Psychology and Group Psychology
5. Subháśita Saḿgraha Part 20, Ideology, Goal and Devotion
6. Subhasita Samgraha - 1, Yajiṋa and Karmaphala

*        *        *

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

*        *        *

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Example: Loopholes in Indian constitution

Ananda Marga philosophy guides us, "There are several fiscal and psychological loopholes in the Indian constitution.“

“The constitution of India proclaims that all are equal in the eye of the law. But in practice, this principle is not followed, and as a result disparity is growing in the arena of law and justice. Such disparity is adversely affecting the different groups of people in the country. For example, there are disparities between the Hindu Code and the Muslim Code. Hindu women and Muslim women, although they are all Indian citizens, do not get equal advantages of law. For instance, according to Hindu law, a man cannot have more than one wife, but a Muslim man is entitled to have more than one wife. A Hindu husband or a Hindu wife is required to approach the court to secure a divorce, while a Muslim man is entitled to divorce his wife without the permission or approval of the court. Moreover, a Muslim husband can divorce his wife but a Muslim wife cannot divorce her husband. Besides, a Muslim husband is not required to show [[any reason for the divorce]].”

“Disparity in the eye of the law is creating all these problems. The root of all these evils lies in the psychological loopholes of the Indian constitution. Why is the constitution allowing the Hindu Code and Muslim Code to stand side by side? Let there be only one code – the Indian Code. This Indian Code should be based on cardinal human values, with a universal approach and Neo-Humanistic spirit. Then only equality before the law can be established in practice, and equal protection of the law for all can be guaranteed. So the constitution should remove the psychological loopholes by eradicating existing disparities in the eye of the law.”

Reference

1. A Few Problems Solved Part 8  “Requirements of an Ideal Constitution”

== Section 2: Links ==

Upcoming Festival: Ananda Purniima - Thurs, 23rd May

• #1: Festival preparation

• #2: AM festival: all-inclusive

• #3: Upcoming festival: dos & don'ts

• #4: Auspicious occasion

• #5: Utsava: new joy & vigour
  

Recent postings

• Guru puja: eyes open or closed

• Sweets: deleterious effects

• Universal query explained

• Baba heard my call

Other topics of interest

• How to advance your dhyana
  

• Those early days
  

• Altered photo ruining dhyana