Hypocrisy in marriages + 3 more

Baba

Hypocrisy in marriages

Note: This letter is only for those who have reverence for Sadguru Baba and try to learn and follow His Ananda Marga ideology.

Namaskar,

Some indulge in dual marriages. That means first they perform an Ananda Marga marriage, and then to please and satisfy their caste, dogmatic religion, or community etc, they indulge in a second marriage ceremony that is fully rooted lowly dogmas and rituals. This is quite harmful - and hypocritical.

The Ananda Marga revolutionary marriage is the real marriage. Running off and having a big, dogmatic religious marriage afterwards completely undermines one’s strictness in Ananda Marga adarsha. It is akin to eating a wonderful, sentient vegetarian meal and afterwards going to the city dump and eating toxic waste.

So one must not fall into this unseemly affair of doing a dogmatic religious marriage ceremony just to please the neighbors etc, after performing an Ananda Marga marriage ceremony with all the dharmic shlokas and principles given by Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. Performing a second dogmatic ceremony would be foolish and against Guru's wishes.

Yet sadly this is happening nowadays with some margiis. The peculiar thing is that often to satisfy and please their non-margii neighbors, relatives, and family elders they do like this. But such an approach is harmful. On dharmic points like marriage, one should only be strict in follow Ananda Marga ideology.

http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Dogmatic religious rituals belittle brides

Sadly, what some are doing is hypocrisy. On the one side they are trying to show themselves as great and committed by having an Ananda Marga marriage, and on the other side they accepting dogma holding a traditional, ritualistic religious marriage. This is pure hypocrisy where one is trying to massage the situation by placing their feet  in two separate boats. The result is bound to be disastrous.

Dual marriages are bad as those parties are engaging in the very dogmas which Baba wants to eliminate from the society. He has given the Ananda Marga marriage ceremony to replace those dogmas of old, not exist side by side such dogmatic approaches that demean and belittle the female party.  Performing a dual marriage is akin to eating a wonderful, sentient vegetarian meal and then going to the city dump and eating toxic waste. Similarly, first having a dharmic revolutionary marriage and then doing a dogmatic religious marriage spoils the whole situation.

http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Double ritual: hypocrisy

There are various reasons why dual marriage should not be done. And here is one of those reasons. In religious marriage rituals, equal rights are not given to girls. That is why Baba has given the Ananda Marga marriage system where both boys and girls are on equal footing. So after performing a marriage according to the Ananda Marga system, if one again tries to marry according to their religious beliefs with the supervision of their religious priests etc, then that is cowardly. And I have seen a few cases in India. First they marry at DMS and then after a few weeks they have a second marriage ceremony with the same girl in their village with a religious priest who presides over the function. Those who do like this are cowards. One side they are trying to be revolutionary leaders of the society in Ananda Marga and on the other side they want to remain followers of dogma in the eyes of their village relatives. Such people should always be condemned.

Conclusion

Baba has graciously given the Ananda Marga marriage system as a dharmic and revolutionary way to engage in family life. That means Ananda Margiis should only participate in the Ananda Marga marriage system. Performing a secondary dogmatic marriage to appease others is cowardly. It ruins everything. So one should be strict on this point and set a dharmic example.

http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,

in Him,

Haridarshan

In the general society there are all kinds of dogmas, rituals, and harmful things going on. Those who are developed human beings recognise those social shortcomings. Those brave people are not just spectators or followers of dogma. Rather they discard the dogma and come forward and follow the right things. They do not bother about praise or censure from the general society. They are only careful to do righteous things. They are true vanguards of the society.

Ananda Marga ideology states, “If I am too concerned with those who praise or censure me, I will not find time to do my real work. As I have come to this world only for a short period, my only concern should be to keep on doing the duty the Lord has assigned to me. And while doing this allotted duty, I should remember that I belong to Parama Puruśa. I have come from Him, and I will have to return to Him – and to do that, I must complete my allotted duty.” (1)

~ In-depth study ~

Two-faced approach

Here below Baba guides us that we should never resort to such type of hypocrisy.

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "To be civilized means to give a refined form to everything, and it is inseparably connected with education. But if refinement takes second place and hypocritical behaviour becomes the primary means of expression, that cannot be called civilization or education. If a man who is invited to a dinner party only nibbles at the savouries, saying, “I am sorry, I cannot eat any more,” then goes home to devour a hearty meal and later brags that he eats very little, an impression of abstemiousness may be created in the minds of others, but there is a complete lack of straightforwardness in his behaviour. In modern society many aspects of civilization and education are of this sort." (2)

In the above quote, Baba harshly rebukes those who give way to hypocrisy by showing one thing and doing another. Yet that is exactly what we see some doing. They are putting forth two fronts. Firstly they portray themselves as a dharmika who adheres to all Ananda Marga policies and principles by having an Ananda Marga marriage, and secondly as a member of a dogmatic community who indulges in caste, dogmatic religious, communal marriage ceremonies. That is cent-per-cent hypocrisy and is not indicative of a civilised, refined man.

Overall, their situation is worse than dogmatic non-margiis who are strict in their own dogma. Such persons may be dogmatic but at least they are not hypocrites.

http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Kanya’da’n dogma: donating daughters as a commodity

Here in these following teachings Baba reminds us of the chaos, exploitation, harsh treatment, and fighting associated with dogmatic religious marriages. And all along the ones who suffer most are the  females. We must not rekindle such harmful dogmas by participating in - and thereby giving credence to - their ritualistic and degrading ways.

Prout philosophy guides us, "Are women like cattle, or sacks of cloth that people give as gifts at the time of marriage? Are they slaves to be sold to others? As long as women lacked courage or intellect, they tolerated these things – but what a great humiliation! To submit them to such indignities is far worse than to whip them publicly on the road. Are women simply like bundles of cloth to be sent to the washerman’s house? Women must not be suppressed, and there should not be domination of males in the society. Society should have a cooperative leadership, not a subordinated leadership; there should be a coordinated, cooperative leadership, leadership between males and females." (3)

History: victorious clan drags defeated women

 

 Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Those people who lived on the same hill under a common patriarch lived just like brothers and sisters. However, they considered the members of other hill communities to be their deadly enemies. And since all on one hill were brothers and sisters, they could not marry among themselves. So what would they do in order to marry? One clan would defeat a neighbouring clan in battle, and they would forcibly drag the vanquished women, with hands bound, back to their own hill for a life of domestic servitude. The males of the defeated clan were utilized as slaves."

   "Even to this day, there is a custom whereby the mother asks her son on the eve of his marriage, “Where are you going?” He replies, “I’m going to bring you a maid-servant.” It comes from those days when the victorious clan would drag the defeated women back to its own hill. Not only that – to bind someone you need a rope or a chain ([now] called a gánt́chaŕá). The women would be brought back in those days with chains on their wrists, otherwise they might run away. The iron bangle that a married woman wears today is a symbol of that early servitude. In those days women also fought in battle, and were often hit on the head and severely injured. A small vermilion mark then came to represent the blood streaming from their cracked heads. But today a woman must wear that vermilion mark if she is to be recognized as married. This is quite different from the original idea. Actually these are all just different dogmas." (4)

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Even today women bear the mark of servitude by wearing iron bangles on their wrists, thus giving the impression that they have been vanquished; they still use the vermilion which originally symbolized bloodshed; they still tie the gánt́chaŕá after marriage, which symbolizes their being forcibly carried away; and the bridegroom still often says to his mother on the eve of his departure for the marriage, “I’m going to bring you a maid-servant.” How absurd! No one is anyone’s servant. The system of slavery was abolished long ago. You should oppose these dogmatic beliefs. They are very objectionable. You should understand the history behind them, and then do the right thing." (5)

Cowards follow ancestors’ dogma

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, "In the society, due to old dogmas, weaknesses and lack of proper education, when the human mind becomes inert and dormant it not only destroys itself but affects the movements of others also. “My ancestors were doing this, so how am I to forgo them?” This is nothing but the same stagnancy. If your ancestors were wearing their Dhotis above their knees and a napkin tied around their heads, why then do you put on pants and a terylene shirt? Nobody follows their ancestors. It is a weakness for a person to take the lead from their ancestors only, ignoring everyone else. Mental stagnancy is a kind of disease. It is motionlessness."

   "People should not be allowed to rely on the dogmas of their ancestors as it obstructs their own mental pursuit and those of others also. Suppose a cart is in an inconvenient place, blocking the road. The cart has to be pushed to one side. If it cannot be pushed easily it will have to be moved more forcibly. You will have to go ahead – this is the law. It will not do for you to say, “Let the cart remain as it is.” Similarly, you should not say, “The members of my family hold conservative views,” and use this as an excuse for inaction. This should not be allowed. People who hold conservative views are really materialists and are mentally stagnant. Speed has to be infused in them. And not only this, there is need for acceleration in the speed." (6)

Some people for the sake of their caste, dogmatic religious, and communal allegiances surrender to the horrors of religious dogma. These dogmas created hell in society in the past and Baba's revolutionary marriage system is the ideal way to lead humanity into the bright new tomorrow - where those old, broken-down dogmas are finally pushed aside. Performing an Ananda Marga marriage and then participating in some religious marital ceremony only validates those dogmatic rituals.

Baba’s guideline is that if our ancestors did something wrong then it is our duty to correct those wrongs. The worst is to follow their mistakes and not fix them.

Hindu dogmatic marriages: woman placed on wooden seat like goat, cow, or sheep

Ananda Marga marriage treats males and females as equals. It is an ideological and rational approach, whereas ritualistic and dogmatic marriages regard the female as the defeated party. And the girl’s family is humiliated by various demeaning rituals etc, whereby the whole ceremony is viewed as a kanyadan.

http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "The marriage customs were all framed in this inhuman way. A woman was never entitled to full freedom in marriage, and the few freedoms that were granted her were in the context of her subordinated cooperation [with] males. In some places a woman was given away placed on a wooden seat like a goat, cow or sheep – this was called kanyádán [“giving away a daughter”]. In some places a woman has no security for her future. If a man desires, he can divorce a woman by paying a nominal amount of money. The women had to tolerate all these injustices with bowed heads because they were physically weaker and lacking education." (7)

References

1. Subhasita Samgraha - 12, How an Ideal Person Should Live

2. Human Society - 1, Social Justice

3. Prout in a Nutshell-9, Renaissance in All the Strata of Life

4. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Bhaerava and Bhaeravii

5. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Bhaerava and Bhaeravii

6. A Few Problems Solved - 6, The Three Causes of Sin

7. Shabda Cayanika - 10, “Kramalaya”

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

By Your blessing

Note: Only those bhaktas who feel a deep spiritual vibration in their heart can understand this song in the depths of their core.

"Shata bádhár práciir bhenge egiye jábo..." (Prabhat Samgiita #1248)

Purport:

O' Parama Purusa, Baba, I will go on fighting against the hundreds of towering walls of obstacles which are coming on the path by chanting Your name and singing Your song. I will destroy those mountainous problems which are obstructing my journey towards the spiritual realm by repeating Your name and reciting Your glory, andl move forward by Your incessant inspiration. With the power of Your name, I will continue marching ahead. By Your compassion, at the end of the dark night I will get the golden rays of the crimson dawn.

O' my Lord, no matter how mighty and powerful the demons are, their entire strength comes from You. You are the Supreme Controller of everything. No matter how forceful and ghastly the burning face of fire is, all the energy comes from You alone. Baba, I am under Your shelter and marching forward on Your path. I am not afraid of anyone or anything because You are always with me. With the fountain of Your blessing filling my heart, I will go on fighting against all dark forces.

Baba, please grant me the firm determination to stop those demons who spread poison in the sky, air, and water. They are trying to pollute the innocent people by spreading their noxious dogma. I will never forgive them nor show them any mercy. With Your blessing, I will march onwards, crushing all problems and hindrances with the stroke of my feet. Baba, Your liila is beyond imagination...

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Foolish blame God for their own sin

Ananda Marga ideology states, "When people rob others, or indulge in hypocrisy, or cheat people, or indulge in tall talk day after day, they are committing original actions. When a dishonest government employee accepts a bribe it is an original action, and when his son gets sick and has to be rushed to the doctor it is the reactive action (the reaction to the original action). When his son dies he laments, “I haven’t knowingly done anything wrong. Oh, Lord, why have you given me such severe punishment.” But God did not give him any punishment – the deep sorrow he felt at the death of his child was the result of his past original actions." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life - 8, Sádhaná

== Section 3: Links ==

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For posting translation / जो अंग्रेजी नहीं जानते : 

Those who face difficulty in understanding English should copy sections of the post, paste them into Google translate, choose whatever language you like, and the post will be translated then and there into your selected language. In this way you will get some approximate idea of the subject discussed. Here is the link for Google translate: https://translate.google.com.

This email contains three sections:

1. PS #1248: By Your blessing

2. Posting: Hypocrisy in marriages

3. Links

Donkey Marriage - 4

Baba

DONKEY MARRIAGE - 4

(Note: Before reading this letter be sure you have read earlier parts of this series- see links appended below.)

Namaskar,
Bride: SS Goenkas'a granddaughter has been initiated into the Ananda Marga sadhana system and she regularly attends dharmacakra.

Bridegroom: The husband-to-be is of the same caste as the bride. He is a non-margii, who has agreed to do both a Hindu style marriage and an Ananda Marga system of marriage - one after another.

The boy is a non-margii and the girl is an Ananda Margii.

Baba's directive is very clear and straightforward. Margii boys may marry non-margii girls and bring them into Ananda Marga; but margii girls should not marry non-margii boys. Baba's warning is very explicit: Our margii girls should not marry outside the Marga. That is Baba's key directive.

Important: The marriage will be held in less than 2 weeks but it does not hold up to Baba's divine teachings. Firstly, it is a caste marriage. Secondly, the bridegroom is a non-margii**. Thirdly, per Baba's teaching we should always aim for both bride and groom to be dedicated Ananda Margiis. Failing that, we should be keen to adhere to Baba's explicit warning and parents should not impose their will and force their margii daughter or granddaughter to marry non-margii boys.

Here are further points for the critical review of this upcoming marriage.

HOW CAN HE FULFILL MARRIAGE VOWS

For the upcoming 7th February marriage, the boy is himself essentially a non-margii so then how can he properly fulfill the marriage vows when he has no real established link with Guru.

What usually happens in a situation like this is that in a token or ritualistic type of way, the boy will be initiated shortly before the wedding. But in this way he will not be able to adhere to the oaths and vows of our Ananda Marga marriage system.

The bottom line is that the boy was interested in a caste marriage etc - not an Ananda Marga revolutionary marriage. That is the only reason why he is getting initiated - not due to any greater spiritual urge or yearning. In that case, that initiation is quite suspect.

It is just like if a boy is attracted to a young female and cannot see her on the street etc, and his only recourse for seeing her is to attend temple / church. In that case, his only reason for going to temple or church is to be able to see the girl, otherwise he would not attend. We cannot then call that boy a bhakta or an adherent of any religion per se, because his only aim is the girl.

Likewise, when a boy takes initiation solely so he can marry a particular girl, then who can think such a boy is a real sadhaka who is ready to understand and fulfill his oaths to Guru. In this case the initiation is just namesake only.

RECIPE FOR NON-MARGII LIFE

If the boy was really interested in spirituality and Ananda Marga dharmic life, then he would have taken initiation months ago so he could practice meditation regularly and attend weekly dharmacakra, the various seminars, and DMS etc. If he had done this for 4 months or so, then it would be a valid initiation and marriage. The way it is now is just for show - nothing more.

Under such circumstances, we see that in most cases the bride and groom lead a non-margii life and their entire family becomes non-margiis, i.e. children etc. Within the Goenka family, there are other such marriages that stand as proof of this horrible outcome.

Here we can basically say that the boy is a veritable non-margii who will take initiation sometime before the wedding in an attempt to befool the world. If he were really interested he would have eagerly taken diiksa at the earliest possible moment in order to inculcate Ananda Marga ideals in his life, but this he did not do.

OATH WITHOUT REVERENCE IS USELESS

In marriage, Baba has given the hymn and the marriage oath. The oath begins with the following vow, which first the groom and then the bride must repeat.

"I say on oath in the name of Parama Brahma and Marga Gurudeva that out of my own free will I will accept Shriimatii / Ms. ... as my wife." (Caryacarya)

In this above quote, the oath is taken "In the name of Parama Brahma and Marga Gurudeva". So here the point is that if the oath taker does not believe in Marga Gurudeva, then taking an oath in His name has no meaning for that person.

To take an oath, one must have reverence for that person or entity - one must be a practicing and committed Ananda Margii, not just some pseudo or quasi margii who just took initiation before the wedding.

JUST LIKE TAKING VOW

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, JESUS, HANUMAN ETC

For example, if one margii takes oath in the name of Marga Gurudeva, then that has deep meaning. Because the margii has heartfelt feeling for Baba, our Marga Guru. But if that same margii takes oath in the name of Allah, Jesus or Hanuman, sun god, moon god, or monkey god, then what will be the sense of that when the margii has no reverence for those entities.

It is just like if an atheist takes an oath in the name of God, then that oath does not mean anything. Because that atheist does not have any feeling for God. So then how can an oath in the name of God hold any meaning - in that circumstance it cannot.

An oath is meaningful only to the degree one has faith and belief in that Entity. Likewise, when non-margiis, or pseudo-margiis, or quasi-margiis do not have faith in Ista or Ananda Marga ideology, then how can the oath they take in the name of Baba hold any real value or meaning.

If a non-margii bride or groom (or both) or quasi margii takes the oath on the name of Marga Gurudeva, then what meaning will that have when they themselves do not feel that Baba is their Guru. That will be ludicrous and they will never try to fulfill those oaths. For them it is a joke, lip service, or an empty drama. That is meaningless; this a very bad start as they are beginning their marriage with hypocrisy.

Those in-chareges and elders are teaching the bridge and groom that hypocrisy is OK. In that case, they will never feel serious about their oaths in marriage, and they will not feel that it is binding.

MARRIAGE OATH IS A LIFELONG COMMITMENT

As we know, in Ananda Marga, an oath is taken very seriously. One must have a deep feeling, connection and commitment to take an oath. Moreover, here we are talking about marriage, a life-long commitment. So the marriage oath is a critical matter. It must not be taken on the name of one entity for which one has no feeling. Otherwise that is just hypocrisy.

This marriage oath is Baba's clear-cut injunction on marriage. Because this oath is being taken on the name of Marga Gurudeva. And as is already clear, when one has no heartfelt reverence or adoration for Marga Gurudeva, then that oath has no meaning. So this oath is very clear-cut, and it is given directly by Baba. A non-margii or quasi margii cannot take this oath.

On this basis, it is proven that both parties intending to marry within the Ananda Marga marriage system must be dedicated, practicing margiis who accept Baba as their Guru.

CONCLUSION

WT'S MUST NOT ATTEND ON 7TH FEB

For all these critical reasons the upcoming marriage of 7 Feb 2014 is completely against the principles and teachings of Sadguru Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji.

Wt's must not attend this unholy marriage. Instead, margiis should come forward and arrange an ideal marriage for this margii girl and uphold Baba's given revolutionary marriage system and Ananda Marga ideology.

VANDANANANDJI AND WHO ELSE IS EAGER TO ATTEND

Unfortunately, some Dadas who are greedy and loose in adhering to Ananda Marga ideals are excitedly planning on attending, just like fox who line up to get some scraps from the dining table. Such Dadas are keen to get payment and gifts for attending the marriage of one "prestigious" family. This is the unfortunate scene - Vandananandji is one of these Dadas. If you know names of some of the other Dadas who eagerly plan attending, kindly write in.

in Him,
Manoj


** Bridegroom is non-margii who will get a token initiation before the marriage.

Note 1: JUST DONKEY MARRIAGE NOTHING MORE

The aforementioned upcoming marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala) is nothing but a donkey marriage. Superficially, they have everything ready in terms of proper outfits and acaryas on hand etc, but upon closer examination the foundations of this marriage are completely bogus as it is wrapped up in caste dogma etc and contravenes the tenets of Ananda Marga. On the outside it looks like Ananda Marga but in reality it is not Ananda Marga. That is what is meant by donkey.

Here "donkey" refers to anything that is done for show or for a superficial reason. Here below Baba gives the example of donkey food.

"If food is not given with that heart-felt feeling and if one's own life is not in danger due to starvation, in that condition then any food offered is donkey food, gardabha'nna. So one must not eat that food." (Summary of Shabda Cayanika - 20, p.163-64 [Bangla])

So that is donkey food - food given just for show or to impress others etc.

And donkey sadhaka is when one is doing sadhana sitting in a very erect position hoping that someone will notice him and be impressed. But internally, that "meditator" is just thinking about himself, not Parama Purusa.

And in the case of the aforementioned marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala), they are arranging it in a very superficial manner to make it look like an Ananda Marga marriage. But in fact, the dharmic fundamentals are wholly lacking. To the untrained eye and non-sadhaka, it may look like an Ananda Marga marriage, but to every sincere Ananda Margii it is evident that this is just a donkey marriage.

Note 2: "DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3A & B GOENKA FAMILY"

Shyam Sundar Goenka is a senior margii that is why it is important and needed to carefully examine his actions; lest others be led astray.

Here below is a link to the first two donkey marriage letters about the Goenka family and their upcoming wedding on 07 Feb 2014.

#1: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-3a.html

#2: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-3b-g-family.html

Note 3: LINKS TO MORE DONKEY MARRIAGE LETTERS

#1: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2013/10/donkey-marriage-1.html

#2: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-2-pune-wedding.html

Donkey Marriage - 3B: G Family

Baba

DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3B: G. FAMILY

~ Part 3B ~

(Note: Before reading this letter be sure you have read part one of this series. - Eds)

Namaskar,
Everyone should be aware that on 7th Feb 2014 a marriage is to be held in Trivandrum (Kerala) - and unfortunately it runs contrary to the ideological fundamentals of our Ananda Marga.

Important: The marriage will be held in 3 weeks but it does not hold up to Baba's divine teachings. Firstly, it is a caste marriage. Secondly, the bridegroom is a non-margii**. Thirdly, per Baba's teaching we should always aim for both bride and groom to be dedicated Ananda Margiis. Failing that, we should be keen to adhere to Baba's explicit warning and parents should not impose their will and force their margii daughter or granddaughter to marry non-margii boys.

Bride: SS Goenkas'a granddaughter has been initiated into the Ananda Marga sadhana system and she regularly attends dharmacakra.

Bridegroom: The husband-to-be is of the same caste as the bride. He is a non-margii, who has agreed to do both a Hindu style marriage and an Ananda Marga system of marriage - one after another.

Thus in a few short weeks the Goenka family will be involved in an unideological marriage. The first part of this series examined how this marriage is based in caste dogma. Here are more critical aspects of this issue.

HOW MONEY RULES THE ROOST

GREEDY WTS MASSAGE HIS FEET

The Goenka family has consistently indulged in caste marriages, yet even then - because of his money - Shyam Sundar Goenka always held a respectable position in Ananda Marga - this has been going on especially in the recent years of last two decades etc. Any other person / family would have faced serious consequences. This shows the sad fact how money rules the roost.

Indeed, Baba points out how in this capitalist era, money is everything.

"No matter how many other qualities they may possess, vipras and kśatriyas who think independently, possess a sense of dignity or are self-reliant, cannot establish themselves unless they learn to flatter the vaeshyas in a psychological way. Even the unworthy son or relative of a wealthy person has the opportunity to sit at the head of society, and through the power of money an unattractive daughter is properly married to a good bridegroom. A good marriage cannot be arranged even for the sons of the poor, intelligent and educated though they may be, let alone the daughters of the poor. In fact in the Vaeshya Age people cannot hope to be respected unless they are rich. Those who hope for respect or have gained it, depend or have depended on the mercy of the vaeshyas." (Human Society - 2)

This above quote applies perfectly to the marriage situation in Goenka's family.

And that is why some Wts are are hovering around like bees around honey. They are ready to sacrifice everything for money.

Here again is Baba's guideline how money is the dominant factor in the capitalist / vaeshyan era. Specifically Baba has mocking how even bogus type of people are hailed as being great because they have money.

Yasyásti vittam' sah narah kuliinah;
Sa pańd́itah sah shrutavána guńajiṋah.
Sa eva vaktá sa ca darshaniiyah;
Sarve guńáh káiṋcańamáshrayanti.

[Those who have wealth are high-caste, are well-educated, possess many abilities, are good orators and are good-looking. They have all these qualities because they have money.] (HS-2)

In His above teaching Baba is mocking how in materialistic societies even idiots are treated as being great simply because they have money.

Because Goenka is rich some greedy Wts massage his feet and dance according to his direction. That is why such workers are eager to attend. That is the unfortunate situation, and all sympathy goes to the margii girl who may not realise what is about to befall her.

PARENTS MUST NOT FORCE MARGII DAUGHTERS

TO MARRY NON-MARGII BOYS

The boy is a non-margii and the girl is an Ananda Margii.

Baba says, "Male members of the Marga can marry females outside the Marga, but it will be better to marry a female member of the Marga to a male member of the Marga, as far as possible." (Caryacarya - 1, Marriage Ceremony, point #5)

Baba's above directive is very clear and straightforward. Margii boys may marry non-margii girls and bring them into Ananda Marga; but margii girls should not marry non-margii boys. Baba's warning is very explicit: Our margii girls should not marry outside the Marga. That is Baba's key directive.

TRAGIC FATE OF AC HARISHANKARJI'S DAUGHTER

And indeed, to understand this we need look no further than the abominable marriage that happened with Ac Harishankarji's daughter. She was a very sentient devotee who strictly followed all the do's and don'ts of AM life. And Ac Harishankarji arranged her marriage with a non-margii boy, who was initiated for the sake of the marriage. And that boy who became her husband made her life hell. She was very keen to follow 16 points, but he forced her to cook tamasik food (meat) for him every day. Not only that, he forced her to prepare and serve meat to their sons. Indeed, in each and every aspect of life, that husband tortured her by forcing her to engage in tamasik activities. He was a brute who ruined her life; and since the day they were married she cried and suffered. Her life became filled with torment. This is the very well-known, yet tragic tale.

MARGII SISTERS MUST NOT MARRY NON-MARGIIS

AND INVITE TROUBLE

That is why - especially in this male-dominated era - Baba warns us that margii sisters should not marry non-margii boys.

The problem is that the non-margii husband negatively influences and forces his wife to stop following Ananda Marga sadhana and lifestyle. This is what we practically see happening when a margii sister marries a non-margii brother. The girl stops following the path. This is the worst outcome.

So best is for both bride and bridegroom to be fully, committed margiis. That is the ideal approach, especially in today's ultra-materialistic era. But if this is not possible and a margii is going to marry a non-margii, then it should be a male margii marrying a non-margii sister. Because today's world is male-dominated, thus it is manageable - though not ideal - for a margii boy to marry a non-margii girl and bring her into Ananda Marga. The boy will usually be able to bring his wife onto the path of sadhana etc.

Whereas it is not good for a a margii girl to marry a non-margii boy. Hence, Baba's stern warning in Caryacarya against this. Such a marriage will undermine and stunt the margii girl's spiritual growth - a most unfortunate and tragic outcome.

USUAL ALIBI

Goenka has been telling many that he was searching for 1 1/2 years for a margii groom for his granddaughter - and that he could not find one. He repeats this wherever he goes.

But we should all understand the greater truth of the matter. Yes, Goenka Dada sent an email and searched etc, but the degree of searching that was required to get a proper suitor he did not do. Rather, he did a token search to satisfy others, and then fulfilled his desire by performing a caste marriage. This is the way it works. People search and receive according to their desire. If Goenkaji really wanted to arrange a revolutionary marriage for his granddaughter then his search would have been far more intense and he would have achieved his goal. It was not an impossible task and he had the resources to do it. The reason why it was not done was because in the soft corner of his mind he was hankering for a caste marriage. And that is what he got.

But to others he can say, "I exhausted all my resources and searched so hard but alas could not get a proper marriage." This is his alibi.

The real issue at hand is that in these twilight years of his life, Goenka is quite rigid to adhere to his caste dogma. To divert inquirers, he says, "I have been searching, I have been searching for year and not finding anyone." But his excuse is just like a pseudo-margii justifying that he could not find sentient food to purchase, and that is why he is eating meat. Anyone seeing this situation will easily understand that the pseudo-margiis had a strong inner desire to eat meat. If he really wanted sentient food he would have been able to find it.

Similarly, Goenka's justification that he could not find an ideal groom is bogus. From the outset his inner desire was to arrange a caste marriage. All the while he tells everyone that since long he is seeking an ideal marriage candidate, yet his heart's desire was to do exactly what he has done: Arrange a caste marriage with a non-margii boy. The whole situation is quite apparent and very sad. The strategy is "see-through."

WHY NOT A NON-MARGII FROM A DIFFERENT CASTE

Goenkaji may furthermore justify that he searched long and hard for a margii boy for his granddaughter, but ultimately he could not find one - that is why he selected this non-margii boy from his own caste. This is the way he might explain things.

But if he was truly sincere in his approach and really could not find a margii suitor, then at least he would have selected a non-margii boy from a different caste and gotten him initiated. But instead, he indulged in a caste marriage.

Really then there is no excuse for what Goenkaji has done.

MUST NOT FALL PREY TO DOGMA OF ONE'S ANCESTORS

Here below is Baba's reply to those who give way to following the dogmatic likings of their forefathers - like Goenka is doing with this upcoming caste marriage on 7th Feb 2014.

   "In the society, due to old dogmas, weaknesses and lack of proper education, when the human mind becomes inert and dormant it not only destroys itself but affects the movements of others also. “My ancestors were doing this, so how am I to forgo them?” This is nothing but the same stagnancy. If your ancestors were wearing their Dhotis above their knees and a napkin tied around their heads, why then do you put on pants and a terylene shirt? Nobody follows their ancestors. It is a weakness for a person to take the lead from their ancestors only, ignoring everyone else. Mental stagnancy is a kind of disease. It is motionlessness."
   "People should not be allowed to rely on the dogmas of their ancestors as it obstructs their own mental pursuit and those of others also. Suppose a cart is in an inconvenient place, blocking the road. The cart has to be pushed to one side. If it cannot be pushed easily it will have to be moved more forcibly. You will have to go ahead – this is the law. It will not do for you to say, “Let the cart remain as it is.” Similarly, you should not say, “The members of my family hold conservative views,” and use this as an excuse for inaction. This should not be allowed. People who hold conservative views are really materialists and are mentally stagnant. Speed has to be infused in them. And not only this, there is need for acceleration in the speed." (AFPS-6, Three Causes of Sin)

Thus no one should fall prey to this dogmatic and stagnant mind-set that, "Since my ancestors arranged caste marriages then I too should arrange caste marriages." This type of psychic stagnancy is very harmful and impedes progress. This is just a lazy excuse for not doing the right thing.

GREEDY VANDANANANDJI

Despite the obvious pitfalls and problems with the upcoming marriage, some Wts are quite excited to attend - including Vandananandji. Such workers have their select reasons why they are eager to attend, even though the marriage is completely against Ananda Marga ideology. And more about this is reviewed in the next installment on this topic. Any worker or margiis strict in dharma and AM ideology will never attend such a wedding that is rooted in dogma.


To be Continued in DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3C: G FAMILY...

Namaskar,
In Him,
Manoj


** Bridegroom is non-margii who will get a token initiation before the marriage.

Note 1: JUST DONKEY MARRIAGE NOTHING MORE

The aforementioned upcoming marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala) is nothing but a donkey marriage. Superficially, they have everything ready in terms of proper outfits and acaryas on hand etc, but upon closer examination the foundations of this marriage are completely bogus as it is wrapped up in caste dogma etc and contravenes the tenets of Ananda Marga. On the outside it looks like Ananda Marga but in reality it is not Ananda Marga. That is what is meant by donkey.

Here "donkey" refers to anything that is done for show or for a superficial reason. Here below Baba gives the example of donkey food.

"If food is not given with that heart-felt feeling and if one's own life is not in danger due to starvation, in that condition then any food offered is donkey food, gardabha'nna. So one must not eat that food." (Summary of Shabda Cayanika - 20, p.163-64 [Bangla])

So that is donkey food - food given just for show or to impress others etc.

And donkey sadhaka is when one is doing sadhana sitting in a very erect position hoping that someone will notice him and be impressed. But internally, that "meditator" is just thinking about himself, not Parama Purusa.

And in the case of the aforementioned marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala), they are arranging it in a very superficial manner to make it look like an Ananda Marga marriage. But in fact, the dharmic fundamentals are wholly lacking. To the untrained eye and non-sadhaka, it may look like an Ananda Marga marriage, but to every sincere Ananda Margii it is evident that this is just a donkey marriage.

Note 2: THOSE WHO ARE CONFUSED

Some margiis get confused about this below teaching; in particular, they misunderstand the way the word "consider" is used:

"While arranging a marriage [in the case of that kind of marriage], the guardians should not consider the caste or nationality of the bride and bridegroom." (Caryacarya, part 1, Marriage Ceremony, pt #1)

The term "consider" is often misunderstood, especially amongst new margiis and new students of AM ideology. The sense is that when arranging a marriage, one should not look for a boy or girl from their preferred caste (so-called) , country, or race etc. For instance, Baba's teaching is that if ones belong to the so-called brahmin caste then they should not seek out a so-called brahmin caste boy or girl for marriage. Anyone doing this is going against the aforesaid rule. This explanation is based on Baba's many discourses where He explicit warns us about the horrors of so-called caste and national sentiment. So readers should reflect on the above quote bearing in mind the greater context of Baba's ideological teachings. Then they will get a proper understanding. If anything is unclear then write in with your thoughts or queries.

Note 3: "DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3A: GOENKA FAMILY"

Shyam Sundar Goenka is a senior margii that is why it is important and needed to carefully examine his actions; lest others be led astray.

Here below is a link to the first donkey marriage letter about the Goenka family and their upcoming wedding on 07 Feb 2014.

#1: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-3a.html

Note 4: LINKS TO MORE DONKEY MARRIAGE LETTERS

http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2013/10/donkey-marriage-1.html

http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-2-pune-wedding.html

Donkey Marriage - 3A: Goenka Family

Baba

DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3A: GOENKA FAMILY

~ Part 3A ~

Note: Shyam Sundar Goenka is a respected, senior margii who holds great stature in Ananda Marga. People hold him in high regard and expect him to live up to the values and principles of Ananda Marga ideology. If a senior margii like Goenkaji does something wrong it can have a sweeping effect across the entire Ananda Marga society. That is why it is important and needed to carefully examine his actions; lest others be led astray. With such persons like Goenkaji we must examine their life under a microscope, because they are so influential. Whereas with xyz margiis, there is no such need to critically evaluate their every moment because their actions are not going to have a ripple effect across our Ananda Marga society. But with Goenkaji, his every word and deed stands as a guiding light for others. So we must ensure he is acting according to the guidelines of Ananda Marga.


Namaskar,
Everyone should be aware that on 7th Feb 2014 a marriage is to be held in Trivandrum (Kerala) - and unfortunately it runs contrary to the ideological fundamentals of our Ananda Marga.

Important: The marriage will be held in 3 weeks but it does not hold up to Baba's divine teachings. Firstly, it is a caste marriage. Secondly, the bridegroom is a non-margii **. Thirdly, per Baba's teaching we should always aim for both bride and groom to be dedicated Ananda Margiis. Failing that, we should be keen to adhere to Baba's explicit warning and not allow margii sisters to marry non-margii brothers.

Verily, there are many critical aspects that demonstrate how this upcoming marriage is unideological and harmful on various fronts. The margii girl herself is in danger of being swallowed up by non-margii way of life. That is the most pressing concern.

DETAILS ABOUT MARRIAGE:

Here is a brief introduction to the bride and bridegroom who are arranged to be married 7th Feb 2014 in Trivandrum (Kerala).

Bride: SS Goenkas'a granddaughter has been initiated into the Ananda Marga sadhana system and she regularly attends dharmacakra in SS Goenka's house. Furthermore, she completed studies in the UK.

Bridegroom: The husband-to-be is of the same caste as the bride. He is a non-margii, who has agreed to the Ananda Marga system of marriage.

So the selection of this boy is highly problematic for numerous reasons.

COWARDS DO CASTE MARRIAGE

It is a caste marriage as both bride and groom are of the same caste. This is against Baba's revolutionary marriage system and an essential point for breaking the caste dogma. For decades, margiis have bravely had revolutionary marriages. Only Baba, being the dharma Guru, could infuse a system to tear down the caste dogma. In the past no one could do so - not Buddha, not Shankaracarya, not anyone. And margiis courageously followed Baba's order and did great sacrifice by going against the caste dogma. By Baba's grace, in a short time period the caste dogma was broken. Baba's given revolutionary marriage system was an instrumental factor. So it is shameful that now this upcoming marriage on 7th February in Trivandrum (Kerala) is plunged in caste dogma.

Unfortunately, SS Goenka does not have the requisite backbone to overcome caste dogma. He is wholly unable to go against caste dogma; his family has as long history of this. Intellectually he knows it is wrong; but he proceeds onwards anyway. The bottom line is: What he is doing is sinful.

THE CASE OF ACARYA RAM TANUKJI & CASTE MARRIAGE

Everyone knows that Family Acarya Ram Tanukji was a top lawyer in Ananda Marga who tried the famous court cases. So Ram Tanukji would regularly meet with Baba for advice and counsel.

That time Ram Tanukji was also trying to arrange a marriage of his family member, and he was explaining to everyone that he could not find a match. In the end, Ram Tanuk arranged for a caste marriage in his family.

As soon as that was arranged, Baba declared that He does not want to see the face of Ram Tanukji. So Ram Tanukji was not allowed to see Baba - just he was crying outside in despair. Baba gave guidance on the legal cases to him via others. Ram Tanukji was not allowed inside.

This gives the clear-cut guideline that Baba is very strict on this point of caste marriages. Because those court cases were highly important yet Baba would not speak with the main lawyer because he performed a caste marriage.

CASTE DOGMA AND BASTARD

In His teachings, Baba furthermore states that those who are followers of caste dogma do not believe in God because every person is a child of God. When Parama Purusa is the Father of the entire creation, then how can there be different castes. The children of the same Father cannot be of different caste.

Baba even states that those who follow caste dogma do not believe in the Cosmic Father. And since they do not feel they have a Cosmic Father then they themselves are bastards. Beacuse those in the society who do not believe in their father are bastards. Verily they do not have a father and that is why they are bastards.

“दो भाई का दो जात नहीं हो सकता है | यह common sense है | यह साधारण बुद्धि से ही मनुष्य समझेंगे, कि—एक पिता है, दो भाई हैं, राम और श्याम; राम का एक जात, श्याम का एक जात नहीं हो सकता है | कभी नहीं हो सकता है | कोई अगर बोले कि—राम और श्याम दो अलग जात हैं, तो बाप भी दो हो गए तब | तब वह तो बाप को नहीं मानता है |

[हँसी]

आँऽ ? जो बाप को नहीं मानता है, वह तो जारज [bastard] है | तो, जो बाप को मानते हैं, परमपिता को मानते हैं, वे जात नहीं मानेंगे |

[मार्गी लोग---"बाबा, बाबा, बाबा !"]

जो परमात्मा को मानते हैं, जो धार्मिक हैं, उनके पास जात नहीं है |”

[V28-19, GD 2 January 1970 Patna]

DADAS EAGER TO ATTEND CASTE MARRIAGE

It is most tragic and shocking that certain Dadas are very eager to travel great distances to attend this dogmatic caste marriage. Each and every aspect of their life is to be an expression of the ideological fundamentals as given by Guru Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. They know that caste marriages are wholly forbidden in Ananda Marga. We do not in any way subscribe to the caste dogma. So it is absolutely mind-boggling that various Dadas have expressed great anticipation in attending this upcoming caste marriage on Feb 2, 2014.

Our Dadas should not lend their support in any way for such a marriage that is unideological and based on caste dogma. So it is very perplexing why some Dadas are so eager to attend, when caste marriages themselves are such a blatant contravention of Baba's teachings and mandates. Indeed, why would any Dada / Wt be eager to attend?

Well, many say it is because SS Goenka himself is a monied man and he wants the marriage to be well-attended and viewed as legitimate. The best way to do that is to have maximum Dadas in attendance. It seems SS Goenka is ready to pay handsomely to those Dadas who atend. So Wts are anxious to go and show their respect, and receive a big bonus or gift from Goenkaji. That is why some of our Dadas are supporting this dogmatic caste marriage.

REVOLUTIONARY MARRIAGE:

CASTE MARRIAGES NOT ALLOWED IN ANANDA MARGA

In Baba’s below Hindi teaching, He is speaking out against the dogma of caste marriages.

“अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage करा लो | और जो हिम्मतवार लड़के हैं, वे, उनके guardian, उनके माता; वे लोग क्या करें ? जात-पाँत को लात से ख़त्म कर दो, चूर-चूर कर दो | एक दल, एक मज़बूत समाज बना लो | और हम लोगों को दुनिया के कोने-कोने में आनन्दमार्ग का पैगाम पहुँचा देना है | इसलिए अधिक से अधिक सङ्ख्या में whole timer worker की भी जरूरत है | कोई whole timer worker बनो | कोई revolutionary marriage करके समाज को मज़बूत बना दो |” (PS Purport 1030 + WT Discourse – 2, 1/14/1984 Patna, Not Printed)


“तुम लोग dogma के ख़िलाफ़ सङ्ग्राम करते रहोगे | केवल—मुँह से बोलोगे कि dogma ख़राब है—सो नहीं | अपने करके दिखला दोगे कि—तुम dogma को नापसन्द करते हो |

हम तो सबसे कहेंगे कि हम लोगों को जल्द से जल्द समाज बना लेना है | और, दुनिया में सर्वत्र आनन्दमार्ग का प्रचार और-ज़ोरदार करना है | समाज बनाना है, इसलिए अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage चाहिए | …

जो लोग guardian हो, माता-पिता हो, अपने बटे-बेटी को revolutionary marriage करके दिखला दो कि—तुम dogma के ख़िलाफ़ हो |

घबड़ाओ नहीं, किसी से डरो नहीं | अपने वैयष्टिक प्रयास से अगर नहीं हुआ, सामूहिक प्रयास से करो | घबड़ाने की कोई बात नहीं है | और हम तोरा सिनी रो साथ छियो |”

क्रान्तिकारी विवाह (Kra’ntika’rii Viva’ha, Deoghar 1/8/84, General Darshan, Not Printed)


To be Continued in DONKEY MARRIAGE - 3B: GOENKA FAMILY

Namaskar,
in Him,
Manoj


** Bridegroom is non-margii who will get token initiation before the marriage.

Note 1: JUST DONKEY MARRIAGE NOTHING MORE

The aforementioned upcoming marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala) is nothing but a donkey marriage. Superficially, they have everything ready in terms of proper outfits and acaryas on hand etc, but upon closer examination the foundations of this marriage are completely bogus as it is wrapped up in caste dogma etc and contravenes the tenets of Ananda Marga. On the outside it looks like Ananda Marga but in reality it is not Ananda Marga. That is what is meant by donkey.

It is just like if one is doing sadhana sitting in a very erect position hoping that someone will notice him in sadhana and be impressed. But internally, that "meditator" is just thinking about himself, not Parama Purusa. So this is not real sadhana; it is just donkey sadhana. It looks like sadhana but on closer look it is clear it is just donkey sadhana.

Same is the case with the aforementioned marriage in Trivandrum (Kerala). To the untrained eye and non-sadhaka, it may look like an Ananda Marga marriage, but to every sincere Ananda Margii it is evident that this is just a donkey marriage.

Note 2: LINKS TO PREVIOUS DONKEY MARRIAGE LETTERS

#1: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2013/10/donkey-marriage-1.html

#2: http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2014/01/donkey-marriage-2-pune-wedding.html

Donkey Marriage - 2: Pune Wedding

Baba

DONKEY MARRIAGE - 2: PUNE WEDDING

(Note: This is the second letter in this series; text in brown is cited material from the first letter. A link to the entire first letter has been appended below. - Eds)

Namaskar,
Revolutionary marriages (RM) are a big part of our Ananda Marga way of life. As we all know Baba has placed tremendous importance on RM's and waged a ceaseless campaign against caste marriages, the dowry system, and all kinds of exploitation related with marriages.

In a nuthsell, the benefits of the RM system are vast indeed as it strengthens the gene pool by marrying people who come from diverse backgrounds, brings tremendous social unity, and is integral for forming one human society - among so many other plus points. As Ananda Margiis, we must be vigilant to attend to and follow Baba dharmic guidelines with regards to marriage. After all, this is an essential component of society building and if we do not adhere to His given tenets, then who will.

Unfortunately, the recent trend in certain parts shows how some are short-cutting and even blatantly disregarding and going against Baba's given revolutionary marriage system - in a multitude of ways. Here we are not only talking about the bride and groom, nor just the margii families involved, but also our Wts who attend, sanction, condone, and preside over such marriage ceremonies.

MARRIAGE DETAILS FROM PUNE WEDDING:

THE ANANDA MARGA SYSTEM IS NOT FOLLOWED

Here enlisted is another example how the Ananda Marga marriage system is not being followed per Baba's guideline.

In Pune city (India), brother Shirakeji arranged to have his son married and the bride was of the same so-called caste. Thus it was a caste marriage. That is the first issue.

Secondly, they also accepted huge cash and kind as dowry. That is the second issues as Baba forbids any type of dowry in the Ananda Marga marriage system.

Knowing all this was happening, even then that wedding was attended by big-wig WTs of Ranchi group. Ranchi GS Ac Citsvarupananda is the main WT who guides brother brother Shirakeji. By their mere presence at such an unholy marriage arrangement where caste dogma was embraced and a dowry was accepted, those top Wts are condoning the marriage. This is a very bad scene indeed. They should have refused to participate.

But what to speak of attending, most or all them ate heartily at the occasion and engaged in all kinds of merriment and festivities. By doing so, those Dadas issued an open statement that one need not adhere to Guru guidelines on marriage. That is the shocking outcome of this marriage. Blame goes on various levels. The only ones free of blame are non-margiis who have no idea about such matters. All others shamed themselves by going against Guru in the public arena on such a critical and important issue.

Rule Violations: Caste marriage, acceptance of dowry, attendance by top Wts.

"For marriage, neither party can demand a dowry." (1)

GREEDY WT'S GOING AGAINST DHARMA BY ATTENDING

If a dowry is involved then no Wt or senior margii should conduct that marriage ceremony - nor should they attend or eat at such a program. All that can be said is that laokik family members may attend out of family obligation but they must not take food at such a ceremony.

Yet so many Wts are in clear violation of this by attending and condoning caste marriages, marriages with dowry, etc This begs the question why our Wts are involving in this way. Are they getting payment for performing such marriages?

All in all, it is quite disturbing to see and 100% contrary to Guru's teachings.

THE CUSTOM OF DOWRY IS UNCIVILISED

"Another glaring instance of social injustice is the custom of dowry. This is a real disgrace in a civilized society. If we go deeply into the reasons for such an injustice it will be clear that there are two main reasons behind it."

"First, dowry occurs where males and females earn disproportionate incomes. The Náyyár and Izave communities of Kerala follow the matrilineal order and hence no dowry is claimed by the males. The Khasia community of Assam follow a similar system. In Burma, though the patrilineal order is in vogue, women are economically independent so they get a dowry."

"Secondly, dowry occurs where there is a disproportionate number of males and females. If the number of males is more, females get dowry and vice-versa. In Punjab, the number of males is more than the number of females so the females get a dowry. The situation is similar for Muslims. The false vanity of the aristocracy also causes dowry. Aristocratic people think, “Our family is a high class family, hence we should get a dowry.” In a Proutistic structure there will be no scope for dowry."" (2)

REVOLUTIONARY MARRIAGE:

CASTE MARRIAGES NOT ALLOWED IN ANANDA MARGA

In Baba's below Hindi teaching, He is speaking out against the dogma of caste marriages.

“तुम लोग dogma के ख़िलाफ़ सङ्ग्राम करते रहोगे | और केवल—मुँह से बोलोगे कि dogma ख़राब है—सो नहीं | अपने करके दिखला दोगे कि—तुम dogma को नापसन्द करते हो |

हम तो सबसे कहेंगे कि हम लोगों को जल्द से जल्द समाज बना लेना है | और, दुनिया में सर्वत्र आनन्दमार्ग का प्रचार और-ज़ोरदार करना है | समाज बनाना है, इसलिए अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage चाहिए | …

जो लोग guardian हो, माता-पिता हो, अपने बटे-बेटी को revolutionary marriage करके दिखला दो कि—तुम dogma के ख़िलाफ़ हो |

घबड़ाओ नहीं, किसी से डरो नहीं | अपने वैयष्टिक प्रयास से अगर नहीं हुआ, सामूहिक प्रयास से करो | घबड़ाने की कोई बात नहीं है | और हम तोरा सिनी रो साथ छियो |”

क्रान्तिकारी विवाह (3)


“अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage करा लो | और जो हिम्मतवार लड़के हैं, वे, उनके guardian, उनके माता; वे लोग क्या करें ? जात-पाँत को लात से ख़त्म कर दो, चूर-चूर कर दो | एक दल, एक मज़बूत समाज बना लो | और हम लोगों को दुनिया के कोने-कोने में आनन्दमार्ग का पैगाम पहुँचा देना है | इसलिए अधिक से अधिक सङ्ख्या में whole timer worker की भी जरूरत है | कोई whole timer worker बनो | कोई revolutionary marriage करके समाज को मज़बूत बना दो |” (4)

FOR COWARDS IT IS DIFFICULT

There are some who may say that adhering to the Ananda Marga marriage system is too difficult and virutally impossible. They argue that there should be some leeway - i.e. slackness in the rules - otherwise no one will participate in our revolutionary marriage system. People are not ready to give up caste dogma and forgo dowry. That is what some say and then they give the following suggestion: Best then is to compromise and not emphasize the importance of following all of Baba's stated rules on revolutionary marriage.

The reply to such persons is as follows. Ananda Marga is not a popularity contest nor are we seeking numbers at the expense of our ideals. Baba never advocates any kind of compromise with Ananda Marga guidelines.

"We will not deviate an inch from our ideology, nor will we allow others to do so." (5)

Indeed, once one begins compromising on points of dharma then the outcome is terrible - more and more degradation occurs until the original guideline is no longer recogniseable. That is the theme Baba has expressed in the following story.

"Perhaps you know the old story of a milk vendor. Once a customer asked a milk vendor. “How is it that you sell me milk at one kilo for one rupee, whereas the other vendor gives it to my neighbour for two kilos a rupee?” The vendor replied, “If you like, I will also give it to you for two kilos a rupee.” So the vendor started giving milk at that price. After a few days, the customer said to him, “Look here, another milk vendor sells 16 kilos of milk for one rupee. Why don’t you?” The vendor replied, “I can also, if you like.” After a few more days, the customer said, “See here, another vendor is selling milk at 18 kilos for a rupee!” “I can also do that if you want,” answered the vendor, “but this time I will not be able to retain the original colour of the milk!” That is, the vendor will have to pour such a great quantity of water into the milk that it will no longer remain white!" (6)

The main teaching here is that once one begins to compromise or adulterate then that continues until the original substance no longer resembles its former self. That is what happened with the milk in the above story.

And that is what will happen to our revolutionary marriage system in Ananda Marga. As soon as the bending of the rules or compromise occurs on caste marriages or dowry, then that will trigger more and more compromises until finally our marriages will have absolutely nothing to do with Baba's given revolutionary marriage system.

That is why Baba guides us to never compromise on points of dharma, i.e. never compromise on Ananda Marga ideals. He wants that we uphold the tenets of dharma. That is our measuring rod, not how popular we are with the common people. Lastly, by upholding the tenets of bhagavad dharma, then good people will be attracted to Ananda Marga.

So we should be ever strict to live by the tenets of Ananda Marga ideology - there is not any question of abandoning those core values and guidelines in order to become more popular.

GOING BACKWARDS IS PATHETIC

The Ananda Marga revolutionary marriage system is an important dynamic for building a healthy human society. Throughout history, marriage has been used as a tool to either exclude or include various sections of humanity. Now, for the first time ever, the world bears witness to the ultimate system of marriage that will yield unparalleled results. Yet the very Dadas (and some family acaryas) in charge of overseeing Baba's revolutionary marriage have seemingly defaulted. Otherwise, how else to explain the above meltdown where a caste marriage was performed complete with a dowry. Baba Himself personally fought against this in the 1950s or even earlier. Now, decades and decades later, our top Wt administrators are jettisoning our Ananda Marga back into the stone ages on this critical matter.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Now is the time we should uphold Guru's glory and fight against this dogma of caste and dowry marriages which are gaining momentum in our Ananda Marga.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Ananta

Note 1: LINK TO EARLIER LETTER IN THIS SERIES

http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2013/10/donkey-marriage-1.html

REFERENCES
1. Caryacarya - 1
2. Talks on Prout
3. Kra’ntika’rii Viva’ha, Deoghar 1/8/84, General Darshan, Not Printed
4. PS Purport 1030 + WT Discourse – 2, 1/14/1984 Patna, Not Printed
5. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 14
6. AFPS-3, Genius and Technician

Donkey Marriage - 1

Baba

DONKEY MARRIAGE - 1

Namaskar,
Revolutionary marriages (RM) are a big part of our Ananda Marga way of life. As we all know Baba has placed tremendous importance on RM's and waged a ceaseless campaign against caste marriages, the dowry system, and all kinds of exploitation related with marriages.

In a nuthsell, the benefits of the RM system are vast indeed as it strengthens the gene pool by marrying people who come from diverse backgrounds, brings tremendous social unity, and is integral for forming one human society - among so many other plus points. As Ananda Margiis, we must be vigilant to attend to and follow Baba dharmic guidelines with regards to marriage. After all, this is an essential component of society building and if we do not adhere to His given tenets, then who will.

Unfortunately, the recent trend in certain parts shows how some are short-cutting and even blatantly disregarding and going against Baba's given revolutionary marriage system - in a multitude of ways. Here we are not only talking about the bride and groom, nor just the margii families involved, but also our Wts who attend, sanction, condone, and preside over such marriage ceremonies.

Here following are some of the transgressions taking place:

On 18th May 2013, Pratap Nayak, a senior margii and Bhukti Pradhan of Balasore in Odisha (formerly known as Orissa) arranged the marriage of his son with a non-margii girl of the same caste. So this the first martial violation as it is well known in Ananda Marga that we do not support caste marriages.

The second issue is that just prior to getting married the boy was seen driving a newly purchased Maruti 800 automobile. And it is no surprise where this car came from. The boy received it as part of the dowry from the bride's family. THus a big dowry was paid to the boy's family. That is a serious violation of our Ananda Marga marriage system.

And the third chief violation is that neither the boy nor the girl have reverence for Guru Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. The boy has zero interest in Ananda Marga and the girl was not a non-margii. Yet they both took vows in the name of Sadguru Baba. But without proper regard for Him and without performing His sadhana, they are both completely unable to fulfill those vows. That is the third major violation. More about this is described further down in this email.

The fourth and final problem is that central workers like Ac Priyakrsnanandji of Kolkata served as the priest, and some other sanyasii dadas & diidis attended this marriage. Thus not only did those Wts attend the proper but they actually convened the ceremony, thus implicitly condoning a caste marriage, the dowry, and the fact that neither groom nor bride was in position to take an oath in the name of Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. Not only that, most of those Wts took food at this ceremony - i.e. full belly. Yet that should not have been done as this marriage ceremony incorporated so many dogmas like casteism and dowry. Ac Priyakrsnanandji and others involved should have taken the responsibility to ensure that the marriage adhered to the marital codes as given in Ananda Marga philosophy. Instead those workers paid a blind eye to such matters, and they got completely wrapped up in Hindu dogma and packaged the wedding in that way as well. This is nothing short of tragic and shocking that certain, "big" Dadas succumbed in this way. What is the need for them to move around in orange dress if they are going to walk arm-in-arm with all local dogmas. That is perhaps the biggest tragedy

Rule Violations: Caste marriage, acceptance of dowry, breach of sanctity of marriage vows, Wt support

WHY WTS INDULGE IN THIS WAY

With regards to violations of our Ananda Marga marriage system, we cannot blame non-margiis as they are ignorant of all such matters. Senior margiis must certainly be held accountable. Most shocking of all is those Wts who perform, preside over, condone, and attend such marriages that are in clear violation of Baba's dharmic marriage system.

Wts should not be giving marriage oaths to non-margiis and those who lack reverence for Ista. Yet clearly certain workers are in violation of this. Furthermore, our Wts should not be attending let alone eating at such marriage gatherings. Yet here again many are contravening Baba's codes.

For instance, if a dowry is involved then no Wt or senior margii should conduct that marriage ceremony - nor should they attend or eat at such a program. All that can be said is that laokik family members may attend out of family obligation but they must not take food at such a ceremony.

Yet so many Wts are in clear violation of this by attending and condoning caste marriages, marriages with dowry, marriages with non-margii brother, and marriages with those who lack reverence towards Ista. This begs the question why our Wts are involving in this way. Are they getting payment for performing such marriages?

All in all it is quite disturbing to see and 100% contrary to Guru's teachings.

WTS SHOULD NOT BE INVOLVED IN MATCH-MAKING ETC

Actually this whole episode of our wholetimers involving in arranging marriges, conducting ceremonies, and doing match-making is not what they should be doing. This is the work of senior margiis and family acaryas. The problem is that sannyasi life is not easy and one various Dadas and Didis take active roles in marriage arrangements, all too often they end up matching themselves as well, thereby leaving their sannyasi dress behind. This is the unholy and disastrous outcome. Thus Wts should not put their mind in that direction. They should leave such works entirely up to senior family margiis and family acaryas. If and when necessary, our WT Dadas may give advice from afar when called upon and needed. Other than that they should involve in the creation of more wts and lfts and leave the arrangement of marriages to family people.

BABA'S MARRIAGE GUIDELINES FROM CARCARYA

Here are Baba's key guidelines on our Ananda Marga marriage system. The following twelve point are from the chapter "Marriage Ceremony" in Caryacarya. Thereafter further points are given in succeeding sections of this email.

A Few Instructions

(1) While arranging a marriage [in the case of that kind of marriage], the guardians should not consider the caste or nationality of the bride and bridegroom, but they must consider the family and the merits and demerits of the two. The guardians, before fixing the marriage, will seek the opinions of the bride and the bridegroom and proceed accordingly. The guardians should not allow matrimony between persons connected with each other either on the paternal or the maternal side for three generations, ascending or descending.

(2) In the case of arranged marriages, the guardians should finally meet and ascertain the consent of the bride and bridegroom, and bless them, at least a day before the marriage is solemnized.

(3) If the boy and the girl settle their marriage themselves, it is proper for the guardians to give their consent. In case the guardians feel that the consequences of such a marriage will be harmful, they may ask the boy and the girl to reconsider their decision. Even then, if they do not change their opinion, the guardians will give their consent, but they will be in no way responsible for such a marriage.

(4) Every person should marry if there is not sufficient reason against marriage. A decision for marriage should be taken with full consideration of one’s physical, mental, and financial conditions and environmental circumstances. No one should exert pressure in the matter of marriage. [[According to Ananda Marga,]] marriage is not a hindrance to dharma sádhaná; rather, marriage is a dhármika ceremony.

(5) Male members of the Marga can marry females outside the Marga, but it will be better to marry a female member of the Marga to a male member of the Marga, as far as possible. If a suitable match is available outside the Marga, the marriage may be solemnized, but efforts should be made to initiate him into the Marga without delay.

(6) For marriage, neither party can demand a dowry.

(7) A widow or a woman forsaken by her husband can remarry. A man marrying such a woman will be given a special status in the society. He will have to shoulder the responsibility of bringing up the children by her previous husband.

(8) If a woman forsaken by the society desires to lead an honourable life, proper opportunities should be afforded to her. If anyone marries such a woman in the manner prescribed by the Marga, the marriage should be properly respected.

(9) Men can prove their manliness by marrying shelterless women. Do not at all allow a woman to live [[in neglect]].

(10) It is proper not to marry again when one’s wife is alive. But sometimes, due to social or family necessity, more than one marriage can be accepted. If there is a need of more than one marriage, the clear permission of the wife has to be obtained in the presence of five responsible persons (one of whom will preferably be an ácárya/á). The second marriage will not be permissible without the permission of the wife. These five persons will specifically ascertain the veracity of the statement of the petitioner.

(11) In Ananda Marga no one will be looked down upon as an illegitimate child. In such circumstances, the parents of the child will be compelled to marry in the prescribed manner, and if need be, the man will have to agree to more than one marriage.

In order that the dignity of a child born out of wedlock may be saved, it will not be necessary to take the permission of the earlier wife for the marriage.

(12) The mantras in the Ananda Marga marriage system are such that the question of divorce does not arise; but in very extraordinary circumstances, on charges of characterlessness, irresponsibility, or cruelty, divorce may be accepted. The complainant (man or woman) will appeal to five important responsible persons of the Marga (an ácárya/á preferably being one of them). On being satisfied regarding the validity of the complaint, they will allow the complainant six months’ time for reconsideration. If the petition is still not withdrawn and the reasons for the complaint remain unaltered, divorce will be accepted. In this connection, the procedure for the division of the properties will be formulated according to the demands of the time.

ANOTHER IMPORTANT RULE ON MARRIAGE

Sadguru Baba says, "At the time of marriage the bride and bridegroom should not have any direct relationship three generations above and three generations below. If this condition is not met, the marriage should not be solemnized." (1)

IN RESPONSE TO THOSE WHO SAY WE SHOULD COMPROMISE

There are some who may say that adhering to the Ananda Marga marriage system is too difficult and virutally impossible. They argue that there should be some leeway - i.e. slackness in the rules - otherwise no one will participate in our revolutionary marriage system. People are not ready to give up caste dogma and forgo dowry. That is what some say and then they give the following suggestion: Best then is to compromise and not emphasize the importance of following all of Baba's stated rules on revolutionary marriage.

The reply to such persons is as follows. Ananda Marga is not a popularity contest nor are we seeking numbers at the expense of our ideals. Baba never advocates any kind of compromise with Ananda Marga guidelines.

"We will not deviate an inch from our ideology, nor will we allow others to do so." (2)

Indeed, once one begins compromising on points of dharma then the outcome is terrible - more and more degradation occurs until the original guideline is no longer recogniseable. That is the theme Baba has expressed in the following story.

"Perhaps you know the old story of a milk vendor. Once a customer asked a milk vendor. “How is it that you sell me milk at one kilo for one rupee, whereas the other vendor gives it to my neighbour for two kilos a rupee?” The vendor replied, “If you like, I will also give it to you for two kilos a rupee.” So the vendor started giving milk at that price. After a few days, the customer said to him, “Look here, another milk vendor sells 16 kilos of milk for one rupee. Why don’t you?” The vendor replied, “I can also, if you like.” After a few more days, the customer said, “See here, another vendor is selling milk at 18 kilos for a rupee!” “I can also do that if you want,” answered the vendor, “but this time I will not be able to retain the original colour of the milk!” That is, the vendor will have to pour such a great quantity of water into the milk that it will no longer remain white!" (3)

The main teaching here is that once one begins to compromise or adulterate then that continues until the original substance no longer resembles its former self. That is what happened with the milk in the above story.

And that is what will happen to our revolutionary marriage system in Ananda Marga. As soon as the bending of the rules or compromise occurs on caste marriages or dowry, then that will trigger more and more compromises until finally our marriages will have absolutely nothing to do with Baba's given revolutionary marriage system.

That is why Baba guides us to never compromise on points of dharma, i.e. never compromise on Ananda Marga ideals. He wants that we uphold the tenets of dharma. That is our measuring rod, not how popular we are with the common people. Lastly, by upholding the tenets of bhagavad dharma, then good people will be attracted to Ananda Marga.

So we should be ever strict to live by the tenets of Ananda Marga ideology - there is not any question of abandoning those core values and guidelines in order to become more popular.

MARRIAGE OATH IS TAKEN IN THE NAME OF MARGA GURU:

USELESS IF SPOUSE IS NON-MARGII

In marriage, Baba has given the mantra and meaning, and the meaning is treated as an oath. The mantra begins with the following vow, which first the groom and then the bride must repeat.

"I say on oath in the name of Parama Brahma and Marga Gurudeva that out of my own free will I will accept Shriimatii / Ms. ... as my wife." (Caryacarya)

In this above quote, the oath is taken "In the name of Parama Brahma and Marga Gurudeva". So here the point is that if the oath taker does not believe in Marga Gurudeva, then taking an oath in His name has no meaning for that person.

To take an oath in someone's name, one must have adoration for that person or entity.

JUST LIKE A MARGII TAKING VOW

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, JESUS, HANUMAN ETC

For example, if one margii takes oath in the name of Marga Gurudeva, then that has deep meaning. Because the margii has heartfelt feeling for Baba, our Marga Guru. But if that same margii takes oath in the name of Allah, Jesus or Hanuman, then what will be the sense of that when the margii has no feeling for those entities.

Similarly, if a non-margii sister takes the oath on the name of Marga Gurudeva, then what meaning will that have when she herself does not feel that Baba is her Guru. If she had the feeling that Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji is her Guru then she would have taken initiation. Not having done so, it is just hypocritical for her to take oath in Marga Guru's name. Officially on paper the oath can be done, but in the real sense no oath has been taken. (From letter of 11/8/2013 on Unmatched Marriages.)

It is just like if an atheist takes an oath in the name of God, then oath does not mean anything. Because that atheist does not have any feeling for God. So then how can an oath in the name of God hold any meaning - in that circumstance it cannot. An oath is meaningful only to the degree one has faith and belief in that Entity. Likewise, when non-margiis do not have faith in Ista or Ananda Marga ideology, then how can the oath they take in the name of Baba hold any real value or meaning.

MARRIAGE OATH IS A LIFELONG COMMITMENT:

MUST BE AN ANANDA MARGII

As we know, in Ananda Marga, an oath is taken very seriously. One must have a deep feeling, connection and commitment to take an oath. Moreover, here we are talking about marriage, a life-long commitment. So the marriage oath is a critical matter. It must not be taken on the name of one entity for which one has no feeling. Otherwise that is just hypocrisy.

This marriage oath is Baba's clear-cut injunction on marriage. Because this oath is being taken on the name of Marga Gurudeva. And as is already clear, when one has no heartfelt feeling or adoration for Marga Gurudeva, then that oath has no meaning. So this oath is very clear-cut, and it is given directly by Baba. A non-margii cannot take this oath.

On this basis, it is proven that both parties intending to marry within the Ananda Marga marriage system must be initiated margiis who accept Baba as their Guru. (From letter of 11/8/2013 on Unmatched Marriages.)

REVOLUTIONARY MARRIAGE

“तुम लोग dogma के ख़िलाफ़ सङ्ग्राम करते रहोगे | और केवल—मुँह से बोलोगे कि dogma ख़राब है—सो नहीं | अपने करके दिखला दोगे कि—तुम dogma को नापसन्द करते हो |

हम तो सबसे कहेंगे कि हम लोगों को जल्द से जल्द समाज बना लेना है | और, दुनिया में सर्वत्र आनन्दमार्ग का प्रचार और-ज़ोरदार करना है | समाज बनाना है, इसलिए अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage चाहिए | …

जो लोग guardian हो, माता-पिता हो, अपने बटे-बेटी को revolutionary marriage करके दिखला दो कि—तुम dogma के ख़िलाफ़ हो |

घबड़ाओ नहीं, किसी से डरो नहीं | अपने वैयष्टिक प्रयास से अगर नहीं हुआ, सामूहिक प्रयास से करो | घबड़ाने की कोई बात नहीं है | और हम तोरा सिनी रो साथ छियो |”

क्रान्तिकारी विवाह (4)


“अधिक से अधिक revolutionary marriage करा लो | और जो हिम्मतवार लड़के हैं, वे, उनके guardian, उनके माता; वे लोग क्या करें ? जात-पाँत को लात से ख़त्म कर दो, चूर-चूर कर दो | एक दल, एक मज़बूत समाज बना लो | और हम लोगों को दुनिया के कोने-कोने में आनन्दमार्ग का पैगाम पहुँचा देना है | इसलिए अधिक से अधिक सङ्ख्या में whole timer worker की भी जरूरत है | कोई whole timer worker बनो | कोई revolutionary marriage करके समाज को मज़बूत बना दो |” (5)

SUMMARY

The Ananda Marga revolutionary marriage system is an important dynamic for building a healthy human society. Throughout history, marriage has been used as a tool to either exlude or include various sections of humanity. Now, for the first time ever, the world bears witness to the ultimate system of marriage that will yield unparalled results. Yet the very Dadas (and some family acaryas) in charge of overseeing Baba's revolutionary marriage have seemingly defaulted. Otherwise, how else to explain the above meltdown where a caste marriage was performed complete with a dowry. Baba Himself personally fought against this in the 1950s or even earlier. Now, decades and decades later, our top Wt administrators are jettisoning our Ananda Marga back into the stone ages on this critical matter.

Namaskar,
in Him,
Ananta

Note 1: JUST DONKEY MARRIAGE NOTHING MORE

The aforementioned marriage in Balasore, Odisha was nothing but a donkey marriage. Superficially, they had everything ready in terms of proper outfits and acaryas on hand etc, but upon closer examination the foundations of this marriage were completely bogus as it was wrapped up in caste and dowry dogma etc. The entire marital function and ceremony contravened Ananda Marga ideals. That is why it is called a donkey marriage. On the outside it looks like Ananda Marga but in reality it is not Ananda Marga. That is what is meant by donkey.

It is just like if one is doing sadhana sitting in a very erect position hoping that someone will notice him in sadhana and be impressed. But internally, that "meditator" is just thinking about himself, not Parama Purusa. So this is not real sadhana; it is just donkey sadhana. It looks like sadhana but on closer look it is clear it is just donkey sadhana.

Same is the case with the aforementioned marriage in Odisha. To the untrained eye and non-sadhaka, it may look like an Ananda Marga marriage, but to every sincere Ananda Margii it is evident that this was just a donkey marriage.

Note 2: LINK TO LETTER ON UNMATCHED MARRIAGES

http://anandamarganewsbulletin.blogspot.com/2013/08/harmful-effect-of-unmatched-marriages.html

REFERENCES
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 7, Bhaerava and Bhaeravii
2. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 14
3. AFPS-3, Genius and Technician
4. Kra’ntika’rii Viva’ha, Deoghar 1/8/84, General Darshan, Not Printed
5. PS Purport 1030 + WT Discourse – 2, 1/14/1984 Patna, Not Printed