Category: Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Posted in Being Prayerful, Blessings from Appaji, Celebrate Today, Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Appaji!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

In this post I am celebrating His Holiness, Param Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji! 

To some He is Sri Swamiji but to many of us He is Sadguru Deva, Appaji and Tataji!

He is the bearded Master who loves all of us and mankind unconditionally! He is the one who takes care of us selflessly, whose love transitions everything. He is the one with the priceless smile, with the overflowing energy, who gives and gives and only asks when He needs us to do what is necessary for our own good. 

The past couple days have been a testimony of Appaji’s unwavering love and selflessness. His entire life is but this has been one microcosm of a much longer story that is representative of His life and transitions everything else! He is Nada Brahma, friend, teacher, Sadguru, healer, protector, Appaji, Tataji, and so much more in one physical form. He is Lord Datta!

In spite of health challenges, prior commitments, His extremely hectic schedule and so much more, Appaji came to Trinidad from Mysore for His devotees in Trinidad and Tobago and created history once again as His every action resulted in a most memorable visit that would forever be in the hearts of all whose lives have been touched by the events of this very short but blessed visit where so many blessed things have happened.

With Appaji’s Grace, an entourage of learned vedic pundits and scholars, all a part of Appaji’s mission travelled to Trinidad from Mysore, India and some from the USA and Canada to ensure that the Maha Rudra Yagam was conducted as it should be and from Day 1 of their arrival, they did excellent service. 

In addition to this, devotees came from several different countries to witness the very same and some also, to see His Holiness for the very first time and to do seva. While on one hand His presence is a testimony of His greatness, His every action is a testimony of His greatness! He is the epitome of Truth, Knowledge, Bliss, Grace and Humility! He is Sachchidananda. 

Appaji we pray for Your Health. Appaji thank You immensely for all You do for us moment after moment, day after day. Thank You for all that You do for all mankind! You are a blessing to us all! We love You more than words can ever say and value You immensely! You are our Appaji, Tataji to our children, Sadgurudeva to us all! Thank You for loving us, Thank You for guiding us constantly, Thank You for showing us how to live and all the reminders You share with us through social media platforms and Apps. Please accept our humble prostrations at Your Lotus Feet! 

Posted in Being Prayerful, Blessings from Appaji, Celebrate Today, Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Sri Karya Siddhi Hanuman’s Anniversary and Appaji’s Birthday!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

Yes, you have read the title correctly!

“It’s a Happy, Happy, Happy Day! It’s a Holy, Holy Day! “

These are the words which have been playing in my head all day, because for us (meaning the devotees in Trinidad), the celebration is two-fold! The difference is, I am hearing it in Sri Bala Swamiji’s voice and the only other song I stopped to sing today was “Vande Santam Hanumantam” when I heard it in Pt Ganesh Maharaj’s TikTok video being sung by His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda!

@punditganeshmaharaj

♬ Vande Santam – Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

This was one of the first bhajans of His Holiness that I heard and today I was reminded of my initial visits to the majestically tall Sri Karya Siddhi Hanuman Murti which stands tall in Carapichaima. It is one many Datta devotees enjoy listening to, so I am sharing the YouTube link here.

Why is the celebration two-fold?

Let me explain:

  1. June 9, 2022 marks the 19th Anniversary of the consecration of the 85ft Sri Karya Siddhi Hanuman Murti by His Holiness Pujya Appaji.
  2. At the time when this post is being written, it is already Jyestha Sudha Ekadasi in India. It is also the day when we celebrate the Lunar Birthday of His Holiness and we wish His Holiness a very Happy 80th Birthday!

The 85ft Karya Siddhi Hanuman Murti here in Trinidad is one that reminds us day after day, how blessed we truly are here in Trinidad. No amount of words can ever say how truly grateful we are!

As the day began, for me it didn’t feel like one where I wanted to be rushing and sorting work! Yes, I know work is important and it takes so much of my time, but it was a day when I wanted a different pace and in more ways than one, I got it.

The energy, the peace and the way the entire day unfolded was proof of it!

For those wondering about Sri Karya Siddhi Hanuman, please allow me to share an excerpt from a post on Trinidad Hanuman Datta Mala, “Apart from that, Sri Appaji has always realised from His early visits, that our ancestors brought Hanuman worship in their hearts and minds and would sing his Chalisa if physical worship was not always possible, because of the difficulties they faced! This Hanuman devotion sustained them and helps us now also to overcome all obstacles!”

Please take the time to click on https://www.dattamalatt.com/post/happy-19th-consecration-anniversary and read the article in its entirety. Also, please take the time to view the video on the page in its entirety.

As described in “The Journey- Memoirs of A Devotee of Parama Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji,”  by Sheetal Prasadji, a very humble and gentle soul who is widely known as a musician and author, who is Trinidadian by birth, “On that most auspicious day, Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Pontiff of Datta Peetham and Spiritual Master to countless devotees all over the world, by His Divine Sankalpa, consecrated the Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Temple and later stated, Now He had synthesized Himself with Sri Hanuman and taken permanent residence in my ‘Bhoomi’ my home land (Chapter 31).

For those wondering about the consecration day itself, please take the time to view this video posted by Hanuman Hoffman. https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=YcgT5S_1360 Also take the time to view this video posted below:

With an abundance of posts on Social Media, namely on Facebook to mark this historic occasion, the energy and celebration were evident. They were all filled with so much love with several special moments and memories shared by Datta devotees. For most of the day messages and posts celebrating the anniversary of Lord Hanuman dominated social media and messages celebrating Appaji’s birthday were evident as soon as it was either morning in India or it was morning in other parts of the world.

What made my day was being able to view Puja and Purnahuti live from Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Ashrama and being able to hear Appaji’s message as before one of the live sessions concluded. It gave me renewed energy to do one of the things I love most- writing!

Today was a day of peace, a day of giving thanks and a day for counting blessings! It was also a day of positivity and gentle reminders.

Happy 80th Birthday year Appaji!

In closing I take this opportunity to wish Appaji a very Happy Birthday 80th Birthday year to You! Please accept our humble Prostrations at Your Lotus Feet!

@punditganeshmaharaj

#punditganeshmaharaj #85fthanumanmurti #hanuman #karyasidhihanuman #trinidad #westindies #caribbean #oneofakind #hinduism #sculpture #murti

♬ original sound – punditganeshmaharaj
Posted in Nature and the Environment, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Sri Swamiji’s Discourse: Episode 513 Srimadbhagavatam SGSPosts

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

This is a message from His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji! Episode 513 Srimadbhagavatam SGSPosts:

“Bhagīratha mounted his chariot and drove swiftly at the speed of wind. River Ganga rapidly flowed behind him purifying different lands as she flowed through them.”

Swamiji explains: What a meritorious deed Bhagīratha performed! He brought purity to all lands by bringing Ganga to Earth. Because of the existence of Ganga, all smaller tributaries and distributaries flow everywhere. You may wonder- do other rivers not have any speciality in them? Of course they have! Each river has its own speciality. But River Ganga surpasses all other rivers with its purity!

How should the auspicious river bath be taken in sacred rivers? It is incorrect to directly go and bathe in the river and cleanse oneself using soap. Prior to proceeding for a river bath, the person should bathe and cleanse himself. He should complete all his daily obligatory duties. He should then, with feelings of total purity and reverence, proceed to the river.

Washing clothes or utensils, bathing with soap, polluting the river with chemicals and factory wastes or dirtying the river by any other method are forbidden. Fetch the river water in a bucket and then use that water for your needs. It is incorrect to pollute the entire river in order to complete your tasks. A river is considered sacred and akin to nectar. A river flows through many mountains and herbs imbibing their medicinal properties. As it flows through varied types of rocks and gems, it absorbs their energies as well. It is natural mineral water. Drinking such water cures diseases. Crops grown with this water are nutritious.

Is it right to pollute such rivers? The Government’s efforts to clean the river are not yielding complete results due to lack of co-operation from citizens. They continue to pollute the river despite Government’s efforts. If at all polluted water needs to be let into the river, the water should be treated and then released. Sewage treatment plants should be set up for this purpose. When treated water is released into the river, the aquatic animals do not perish. By releasing polluted water, the plants perish, the animals are destroyed and the water is no longer fit for consumption. We are poisoning the water. We pollute the water and then blame the Government for not taking adequate steps. Government has been doing its best in this aspect.

When drainage waters are collected and left to dry, then Sun’s rays suck up the dirt and impurities. Germs are destroyed. When treated water is used for watering plants, the water enters into the earth. It gets purified there. Water table improves. We get purified drinking water again from earth.

We are careless in disposing garbage. We worry only about the cleanliness of our house when dirtying the streets and then shift the blame on to the Government. Shamelessly we use plastic covers and indiscriminately dispose them. Cows and buffaloes eat plastic and fall sick. Are we not sinning? When there are alternatives to plastic, why are we insistent on using plastic? Plastic rice and plastic noodles have flooded the markets. Let us now get back to the story.

When we go for a sacred river bath, we should at first bathe and cleanse ourselves at home. With devotion and reverence we should go to the river and dip thrice. That’s all. Applying soap and bathing in river increases the sins instead of destroying them. Sins of those who bathed earlier in those waters transfer to the person who dirties it.

“River Ganga flowed over the ashes of the sixty thousand sons of Sagara. With the touch of Ganga, these sons were purified and they reached heaven. From here originates the custom of taking the ashes of the deceased and offering them in River Ganga. She swallows up the sins”.

Krishnaya namah

Posted in Blessings from Appaji, Lotuses at His Holy Feet, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Announcing Lotuses at His Holy Feet (Kindle Ed)

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

Yes, you have read the title correctly! This post is dedicated to announcing the Kindle publication of ‘Lotuses at His Holy Feet’. For those who are familiar with this book, it is a book of poetry that tells a story and it was written by Sheetal K Prasad, a Trinidadian by birth, who is an ardent devotee of His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji. In this book Uncle Sheetal refers to His Holiness as, “my MASTER, my Lord, my sole reason for being.”

Lotuses at His Holy Feet is non-fiction and it is a testimony of Uncle Sheetal’s experiences as well as his love for His Holiness, his love for JayaLakshmi Maa and his love for Sri Datta Vijayananda Teertha Swamiji who we affectionately call Sri Bala Swamiji. More so it is a testimony and celebration of the greatness of the divinity each represents meaning a celebration of the greatness of our Sadguru who is the epitome of Truth, Knowledge and Bliss, as Lord Dattatreya, as Nada Brahma, as our Saviour, as the Crowning Glory of the Universe as I often times refer to His Holiness, and it is a celebration of His Mother-the Divine Mother-, His Guru as well as a celebration of Sri Bala Swamiji- Junior Pontiff at Avadhoota Datta Peetham who exudes humility, compassion and divinity.

Book Cover of Uncle Sheetal’s book!

Those who know Uncle Sheetal would know of his sincerity, his humility and his immense talent as a singer and musician. His life and messages provide us with a lot to learn. He is well-known and well-loved!

When you click on the link please take the time to read the book’s description aptly reads:

As William Wordsworth once said, “Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility.”

The book description goes on to say, “The verses penned here are from Sheetal K Prasad, who is widely known for his love of music, more so his love of the bhajans of His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda. It is a compilation of poetry and represents an emotional outburst that shows the great joy experienced by the author. Here he acknowledges the omnipresence of his Master, His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji.

This is an invitation to join the poet on this journey he narrates and immerse yourself in the peace, tranquility and rush of emotions he experiences.”

This is an invitation I extend to you with more good news! Uncle Sheetal’s book is available in Kindle Edition on all Amazon Marketplaces and these are the links below:

Amazon SiteDirect Link
Amazon USAhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon UKhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Indiahttps://www.amazon.in/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Canadahttps://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Denmarkhttps://www.amazon.de/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Francehttps://www.amazon.fr/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Spainhttps://www.amazon.es/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Italyhttps://www.amazon.it/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Japanhttps://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Netherlandshttps://www.amazon.nl/dp/B08NXG1HMKc
Amazon Brazilhttps://www.amazon.com.br/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Mexicohttps://www.amazon.com.mx/dp/B08NXG1HMK
Amazon Australiahttps://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08NXG1HMK

Even better, the awesome news doesn’t end here! You don’t need to have a Kindle to purchase the book! As I have mentioned time and time again you don’t need a Kindle device but you can click on the link that says, “Read with our Free App” that allows you to download the Free App and it can be read on your phone, laptop, tablet or desktop!

The beauty of having the book online is that all things considered having the book in Kindle format presents you with several benefits. Three (3) of the main reasons are as follows:

It is easily available by clicking on the link and making an online purchase, it doesn’t require physical storage space and considering the current situation we are faced with (the Covid-19 pandemic) having books in Kindle Edition means not having to travel physical distances to access books like this which will offer us peace of mind, tranquility and insight into the greatness of His Holiness, Jayalakshmi Maa and Sri BalaSwamiji.

As always I remind you that this is yours for the taking! Welcome the experience and enjoy the Kindle journey! Sri Guru Datta!

Posted in Being Prayerful, Blessings from Appaji, Celebrating Existence, Deepavali 2019, India, Life, Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating our India Pilgrimage 2019!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Today I celebrate our India Pilgrimage 2019! A little over a year ago we were blessed to be in Mysore! One year ago we were blessed to be in Varanasi! One year ago we were blessed to take bath in the Ganges!  As I have said time and time again our pilgrimage to India was the blessing of a lifetime. 


Had anyone told us what 2020 would be like except our Sadguru we would have questioned it because a first visit to Mysore Ashrama is a visit that will be followed by other such visits! 

No one I believe would have thought that Covid-19 would bring the world to its feet. No one would have thought the travel industry would be brought to a standstill. No one would have thought life as we knew it would be replaced by the ‘new normal’. 


Our visit to India was a trip that will never be forgotten! We left Trinidad on September 23 and arrived in India on September 25. We arrived at the Ashrama in the evening after a 3 hour drive. It was scenic and provided a first hand view of India as it really is- a mixture of hustle, bustle, honking horns of taxis and rickshaws, well maintained roads and businesses of all types lining the highway. 


The next morning we were invited to join our Datta family from Trinidad (they had arrived a few days before) on a trip to Mekadatu where His Holiness was born.
Along the way we saw so many beautiful sights- fields of flowers in full bloom, rice paddies well cultivated and maintained by hard working farmers, a buzz of activity in the marketplace, school children going to school and people in general going about their daily activities with pride and a sense of duty. 


Our arrival at the temple where Jayalakshmi Maa stayed was peaceful and tranquil. The humility and the love of the people there is something which will always be with us. One thing that stood out was the peacefulness of the monkey who freely moved from tree to tree. 


Had anyone told us that we would be crossing the river in a basket we might have doubted. With the water higher than it usually was, it was certainly an experience and an experience that was guided by SadGuru. There was no time to think of being afraid of anything and the peace and serenity that was with us was incomparable. The sound of the water as it moved, the monkey that moved freely,  the small Hanuman temple where we were able to pay our respects and receive Darshan- all memories we will cherish! 


We were fortunate to spend the night in Jayalakshmi Puram which is very sacred grounds and has a lot of spiritual significance for all Datta devotees. This journey allowed us to get a valuable understanding of the life of His Holiness and His parents, Sri Jayalakshmi Maa and Sri Narahari Teerthan Swamiji. The next morning we got the opportunity to walk through the village where His Holiness lived in His childhood days and in the afternoon we were able to visit Sri Jayalakshmi Nilayam. Our last stop before returning to Ashrama was Sogala- very sacred grounds surrounded by lush green grass and beautiful well maintained surroundings. 


Our return to Ashrama occurred with us finding the Ashrama with a buzz of activity with Navatri preparations well underway. Experiencing Navatri in the Ashrama is beyond description. 


It meant seeing the ladies busy sweeping from early morning, doing beautiful rangolis, looking at the ladies who led the procession each day dressed in the colour for the day with the kalasas on their heads, the dancers and singers moving in unison and then those strategically positioned at the front of the chariot carrying His Holiness and Sri BalaSwamiji. It was in every sense truly festive, celebratory and filled with energy. 


It also meant seeing His Holiness beautifully dressed every morning on the chariot to Nada Mantapa where the devis would be aartied and gifted, Puja would be conducted and discourse would be given. It also meant bhajans from visiting groups who would have the privilege of performing while His Holiness conducted Puja. 


Following the morning programme it meant being able to go upstairs to take the Darshan of the Divine Mother. Each day was a blessing! Following Navratri we were able to visit different parts of the Ashrama and nearby places like the Market, the temples at Chamundi Hills and the shopping area just to name a few. Added to this Divali was a memorable occasion that will always be with us. 


Our journey from Mysore took us to Bangalore where the peacefulness, the divinity and the overall atmosphere reminded us of the Ashrama we had earlier left in Mysore. Undoubtedly the divinity, the positivity, the energy- everything provided insight on the spirituality and divinity of these spiritual grounds. 


The next day we travelled to Varanasi, a city steeped in history and religion. Different yes, but the walk to the Shivala Ghat the next morning where we  took bath in the Ganges was an experience we would never forget. The beauty of the sun over the Ganges is something we also will never forget.  The steps that made it easier to step into the water were quite helpful too. It was not just about being in Varanasi but it was about being in Varanasi with His Holiness our Sadguru and with His Holiness Sri Bala Swamiji for the consecration of the Varanasi temple and for the Maha Ati Rudra Yagna. With guidance from both we were able to see holy sites and maximize the extent of our travels! Every day brought something new that was reflected in various ways! Every day provided something to treasure!  The experience will always stay with us! It meant time in the presence of divinity, visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Vishalakshi Devi temple, visiting the Kedarnath temple and several other sacred places throughout the nearby areas. 


If you would like to read more about our 2019 India Pilgrimage please click on the links below. Please also click on the links to the videos above and do also take the time to view the photos that have been included. 

Celebrating our India pilgrimage- Appaji’s Grace! (dattamalatt.com)

https://rachaelathomasj.com/2019/11/19/celebrating-varanasi-2019/

https://rachaelathomasj.com/2019/10/07/celebrating-our-arrival-in-india-mysuru-ashrama/

Posted in Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating the relaunch of Trinidad Hanuman Datta Mala

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta

Datta devotees and the followers of His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda are always in search of valuable reading material that provide insight into His life, His music, His teachings and His projects. More so they are always in search of ways that His Holiness, our beloved Appaji shows us to be good and to do good. When an opportunity to get information like this presents itself it is one we must fully embrace and savour.

As such the focus of this post is to celebrate the relaunch of Trinidad Hanuman Datta Mala. It is timely, relevant and a wealth of information that is truly ours for the taking.

For those who may not be aware Trinidad Hanuman Datta Mala is an e-magazine and it is a quarterly publication that is being published under the auspices of His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Founder and Pontiff of Avadhoota Datta Peetham of Mysuru, India.

Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham

The publication which initially existed as a print publication offers Datta devotees the world over and followers of His Holiness Sri Swamiji a more direct way to access the teachings of the publication and is now available with a click the the site http://www.dattamalatt.com

It provides a prolific introduction to His life, His teachings and His main mission, “Transformation of the mind” which He says, “is the grestest miracle.”

The Mysore Ashram is described providing readers with an opportunity to not just understand the greatness of Appaji, our beloved Sadguru but also the lengths He goes to take care of all of humanity.

Sri Swamiji as the living Nada Brahma is explained as well as the eternal principle of Dharma Prachaara and Vishwa Manava Dharma. We can all agree that Sri Swamiji’s has numerous social and charitable projects. Several of them are mentioned here including Annadanam, Shuka Vana and SGS Posts.

Insight into the life and work of junior Pontiff at Avadhoota Datta Peetham Pujya Sri Datta Vijayananda Teertha Swamiji our beloved Sri Bala Swamiji is provided.

Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham

To date it contains several important messages. Key among them are the discourses from Sundar Kanda which were delivered by Sri Datta Vijayananda Teertha Swamiji (Sri Bala Swamiji) during His visit to Trinidad in April and the Sri Rama Navami discourse given by His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidanda.

www.dattamalatt.com/post/sundar-kanda-day-1-sept-2019-issue-thdm-page-18-30

www.dattamalatt.com/post/sundarakanda

www.dattamalatt.com/post/rama-navami-message-from-pujya-sri-swamiji

Other pertinent messages are also shared:

• Sri Bala Swamiji’s message on the occasion of the Hanuman Day of Prayer www.dattamalatt.com/post/hanuman-day-of-prayer

• Understanding Abhishekam www.dattamalatt.com/post/understanding-the-significance-of-abhishekam

• The Importance of Ganapati (Ganesha)Young Satya https://www.dattamalatt.com/post/the-importance-of-ganapati-ganesha

• Preparations for the upcoming Maha Rudra Yagna www.dattamalatt.com/preparing-for-maha-rudra-yagna

• The importance of Śrī Bhagavad Gītā www.dattamalatt.com/śrī-bhagavad-gītā-1

• The importance of worshipping Lord Surya, the Sun God www.dattamalatt.com/post/importance-of-suryadeva-sun-god-worship

• Who is Rudra www.dattamalatt.com/post/who-is-rudra

• The speech that was delivered by His Holiness Param Puja Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda on the occasion of consecration of the Shiva Lingam at Aripo Datta Kashi www.dattamalatt.com/post/aripo-datta-kashi-temple

• Yoga Inspirations www.dattamalatt.com/post/yoga-inspirations

• Testimonials from several Datta devotees

We can all agree that this is truly a blessing and there is a lot of invaluable information here which you can read and which you can also share with others.

Photo Credit: Datta Digambara

To subscribe to Trinidad Hanuman Datta Mala visit https://www.dattamalatt.com/about-contact.

Sri Guru Datta

Posted in Blessings from Appaji, Hanuman Day of Prayer, Hanuman Jayanti, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Hanuman Jayanti 2019!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

Sita Ram! Happy Hanuman Jayanti 2019! Om Namo Hanumate Namaha!

sri bala swamiji
Photo Credit: Shivani Ramoutar

 

Today Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago join with Hindus around the world to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti! Trinidad is Hanuman Land as Lord Hanuman stands tall at Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre in Carapichaima at 85 feet tall- the tallest Hanuman murti outside of India. 

 

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This Karya Siddhi Hanuman Murti (so named because of His presence at Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre)  stands tall and majestic, greeting His Guru Lord Surya as each day starts, welcomes devotees who come from around the world to see Him, He listens to them and their prayers and offers comfort, courage and solutions.

Lord Hanuman

 

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

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Photo Credit: Shiva Jeremiah

Like other Hanuman Jayanti celebrations, for Hanuman Jayanti 2019 devotees join in the signature colour red to make offerings of roat, dried coconut, paan leaves, flowers and host of other fruits and sweets that are offered to the revered God-dutiful servant of Lord Rama- the epitome of humility, discipline, strength and courage whose greatness we learn of in the pages of the Holy Ramayana. More so we learn of His patience, His selfless service, His commitment to duty and to helping others.

 

Throughout the island today Hanuman puja is being conducted today in homes, temples and various Ashramas, Hanuman Chalisa is being chanted and the name of Lord Hanuman is being glorified. At the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre today Hanuman Jayanti is being marked with all day chanting of Hanuman Chalisa by various Pundits and groups together with all day offerings by devotees visiting the Ashrama and will culminate with Hanuman Puja and Lord Satyanarayan Vrat Katha.

While Hindus are celebrating Hanuman Jayanti, Christians are celebrating Good Friday and today being Friday, Muslims had Jumaah today. It is what we in Trinidad and Tobago can describe as a true reflection of our diversity as a people.

Many can recall that Ram Navami was celebrated last Saturday. On this said Saturday-April 13- devotees of His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Pontiff of Avadhoota Datta Peetham and founder of the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre held the Hanuman Day of Prayer. This was held with the blessings of His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji and in the Divine Presence of Junior Pontiff at Avadhoota Datta Peetham, Pujya Sri Datta Vijayananda Teertha Swamiji, our Beloved Sri Bala Swamiji.

 

Sri Swamiji’s visit many can agree was one where 4 days were well spent with priceless opportunities and beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. The 4 days were filled with a lot of activity all of which were fully meaningful and spiritually uplifting- daily Sri Chakra Puja, other daily Pujas, Homa, Abhishekam, bhajans, kirtan and discourse from Sundar Kand.

Sri Swamiji’s visit set the tone for Hanuman Jayanti and revealed several parallels between Him and Lord Hanuman- humility, devotion, purity of heart, thought and action and selfless service.

In closing keep chanting, keep praying, keep celebrating the good around you! More so as His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji always asks, “Be Good, Do Good”.

 

If you haven’t downloaded the app yet either visit the Google Play Store or the Apple Store and download your SGSPosts today! Let that be your gift to yourself and make it a gift you give to someone else by way of introducing them to it.

 

 

Posted in Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Uncategorized

Celebrating the official launch of Appaji’s Mantra-Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha

Posted on by rachaelathomasj


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Yesterday, August 25, 2018 marked the official launch of the ‘Shivaaya Rudraaaya Namaha’ Mantra at the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre in Carapichaima. The ‘Shivaaya Rudraaaya Namaha was given by devotees on the occasion of Guru Purnima 2018 for the peace and protection of Trinidad and Tobago and also for the peace and protection of the world.

Hundreds attended this function at the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre to be a part of this historic occasion and also to join in the Mass Chanting of the Mantra.  In attendance were several Pundits as well as members of various temples and other individuals who have heeded Sri Swamiji’s call to chant this very important Mantra. This Mantra will form an integral part of the spiritual build up of to the Maha Rudra Yagna which His Holiness Sri Swamiji announced will take place here in Trinidad in 2020.

Bhajan Group

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The programme began with bhajans by the Bhajan group. Chairing the programme was Dr Ravita Singh who in her opening remarks explained the importance of chanting for the Universe. She said, “He (referring to his Holiness Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji) once said that if you pray for happiness for yourself but you are in a home where there is unhappiness it is very difficult for you to be happy. Similarly, it is difficult for there to be happiness in a home if there is unrest or unhappiness in a village.” Dr Singh further explained that achieving happiness in a village becomes difficult if there is unrest and unhappiness in a country which in turn cannot be realized if there is not peace in the world. Peace in the world in itself she explained cannot be achieved if the universe is unsettled.

The Invocation Prayer was done by Pundit Mohana Datta who serves as resident Pundit at the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre and he was later joined by Pundit Abhedanand Persad Sharma for the official lighting of the lamp.  

In addressing the gathering Sri Ramesh Persad Maharaj, President of the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre told devotees that Trinidad devotees were not chosen by accident to begin this Mantra Upadesham and stressed that it is “an important duty” and “an important mission to serve the rest of the country and to serve the world.”  He further continued by saying that it is a great responsibility to be able to join with followers of Sanatan Dharma throughout the world in an undertaking such as this.

DYC Launch 1

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The Mass Chanting of the Mantra produced a total of over 500,000 chants and this was in addition to the devotees who viewed the event via social media who logged their counts separately.  Included in the programme was a PowerPoint presentation informing those attending the event and those viewing the live Facebook feed how to register their chanting count on Yoga Sangeeta.

Following the official launch of the “Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha” Mantra one long standing Datta devotee, Amrita Seyjagat remarked via Instagram, “Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha!!! I felt like Appaji was here physically…such energy and pure happiness…”

This was a reminder of something I mentioned in my post  where I described the energy that was created when Uncle Sheetal began the chanting of the Mantra and devotees joined in (Refer to: https://rachaelathomasj.com/2018/08/18/celebrating-appajis-blessings-for-all-datta-devotees.)  Sri Swamiji, our Appaji always lets us know He is always with us and undoubtedly, this is another example of His omnipresence. 

Akash Vani 106.5 fm carried a live broadcast of the programme but for those who may have missed the official launch please know that there will be a delayed broadcast of this event on 103.1fm on Monday (tomorrow) from 7pm to 9pm.  If you would like to view the video from the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre please visit  https://www.facebook.com/dyctt/videos/245358352831251/

To record your chanting count visit https://www.yogasangeeta.org/signin.html?returnURL=/practicelog.html. If you do not have an account select “Sign Up” to create your account. Verify the account and then log “Sign In” to record your count. 

YogaSangeeta login

In closing I urge you to continue to chant and to remain steadfast in your commitment to promote peace in our country, our world and the Universe. More so remain steadfast in your commitment to do your part in helping to protect each. Let us keep uniting for a common good and let us serve as best as we can!

Should you need to contact me please leave a comment here or email me at signaturewritingstyles@gmail.com

 

Posted in Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Uncategorized

Valuing Life and Celebrating Blessings!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

39970284_1961547637470417_1474214994269700096_nAugust 21st, 2018 will forever be remembered as one of the scariest days and one of the most horrific in the lives of many in Trinidad and Tobago and by extension Venezuela, Grenada, St Lucia and all the other countries that felt the impact of the 7.3 earthquake at 5.31pm.

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Photo Credit: Express.co.uk

As such this post is dedicated to valuing life and celebrating blessings! Everything else that happened during the day seems pale in comparison and the dominant emotion was being thankful but not just thankful (I am always thankful), rather it was being extra thankful for life, for protection and for blessings!  In addition to the 5.9 aftershock that was a painful reminder of yesterday, there have been 31 other aftershocks (as of 5pm this evening). https://www.facebook.com/TTWeatherCenter/posts/1955132281173479. I maintain that here in Trinidad we are truly blessed!

Thankfully they either weren’t felt or as is the case of the 5.9 aftershock were not as scary as the 7.3 magnitude earthquake we experienced yesterday. 

The truth is that experiencing this 7.3 earthquake was one of the scariest realities! It was strong and it was unlike anything any of us had ever experienced and while we are mindful of infrastructural damage across the affected areas, in Trinidad and Tobago at least, we are grateful that there have been no fatalities as a result. What exactly should you do in the event of an earthquake? Here is some information that may be of help to you: http://www.odpm.gov.tt/node/18

Buildings were moving throughout the island and this is a fact that can be attested to by many. At the time of the earthquake I was speaking to my Mom (we were both on different parts of the island- she was South West while I was on the North West) and she was experiencing the same things I was.  Just when it seemed like it was about to stop it became stronger and it felt like things would just begin crumbling (thankfully it did not!) Thankfully we remembered prayers and began to pray and this in itself would have been something many across the island and the other islands would have remembered. Honestly I don’t know if anything else would have gotten us through those moments. In particular we were chanting Mantras. As I said, “Mummy chant mantras,” she said, “Yes, Swamiji said to chant mantras.”

Though we experienced problems with calls either not going through or being delayed across the telephone networks interruptions did not last for long. The good news about social media is that many posted to say they were safe and Facebook was abuzz with activity. Videos were shared from media houses and concerned citizens who were all thankful for life (and some still in a state of shock). As more news comes to hand can tell that yes, there has been a lot of infrastructural damage but thankfully there were no loss of lives.

Here are some images shared by Trinidad Express Newspapers https://www.facebook.com/pg/ExpressNewspapers/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10155736033095814

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Photo Credit: CNC3 Television

In addition to this many learned that the Devil’s Woodyard Mud Volcano in New Grant erupted shortly after the 7.3 magnitude earthquake (http://www.looptt.com/content/devils-woodyard-mud-volcano-erupts-again), making this the second eruption for the year.

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Photo Credit: LoopTT

If anything these series of events would have renewed the call for everyone to be more prayerful and to keep praying!

Many would have wondered why our Sadguru, His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji opted to visit Trinidad in July and why He opted to spend Guru Purnima here. As I said to one devotee from India earlier, “Hopefully now many understand why Appaji was here for Guru Purnima and why Maha Shiva Yaga.” As I also said, “By Appaji’s Grace we are all safe.”

While here in July His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji asked that we chant ‘Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha’ as part of the spiritual build up for Maha Shiva Rudra Yaga but also for peace and protection not just for Trinidad but for the world.  This began and it has intensified as many more have started chanting. If you remember my last post, I spoke of the energy and the power of the Mantra that could be felt when chanting. In case you missed it here is the link for easy access:

https://rachaelathomasj.com/2018/08/18/celebrating-appajis-blessings-for-all-datta-devotees

Our Sadguru, Our Appaji His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji saved us! He does so much for us that we really must continue our Humble Prostrations to His Lotus Feet! His Love for us does not waver, He is most compassionate, all Merciful and He always takes care of us and protects us! Appaji thank you so, so much! No amount of words could truly express how grateful we are to you! 

Appaji has done so much for us and we all love Him. Let us unite and let us heed our Master’s call with greater determination!

 For those who still need to get the mantra here is the link you can check on Soundcloud:

For those who are not aware the official launch of the mantra will be held at the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre on Saturday (25th August) between the hours of 4pm to 6pm.  Please see the official invitation below:

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Photo Credit: Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre TT

 

Posted in Guru Purnima 2018, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Uncategorized

Celebrating Appaji’s Blessings for all Datta Devotees!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta

Maybe my post may be considered late but I prefer to think of it as timely. As you read I am certain you will understand why!

In July here in Trinidad we were blessed to be in the presence of pure Divinity as we were blessed with the physical presence of our Sadguru, His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji.  It was filled with priceless memories, an abundance of blessings and valuable opportunities to do Seva and also be in the Divine Presence of our dear Appaji!

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This visit of His Holiness and His Parivaar was a 13 day visit filled with Divine Darshan and pertinent messages that came via His words, His discourses, the Pujas He performed, His Bhajans, His Ragas, His smile, His Countenance, His disposition, His compassion and His actions.

Our Sadguru gave valuable gentle reminders and blessed us immensely in so many ways. In addition to a historic Guru Purnima celebration to remember, we have to also treasure the Datta Ganga Raga Sagara Meditation & Healing Concert that was held at SAPA on July 20th. We were also blessed to share Appaji’s visit with Datta devotees from around the world who visited Trinidad during this time.  In every sense every single moment spent in Appaji’s Divine Presence was one to treasure and to value for all of eternity.

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On the occasion of Guru Purnima Appaji announced that in 2020 a Maha Rudra Yaga will be held here in Trinidad and asked devotees in Trinidad and throughout the world to chant ‘Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha’ in the spiritual lead up for this event.

Here is the link you can check on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/dattapeetham/shivamantra

Have you begun your chanting yet?  If not, hopefully you do soon and please remember to check your count and submit it!

One memorable occasion that I just believe I must share was the morning in the hall of the Ashram when Uncle Sheetal reminded everyone of the need to begin chanting ‘Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha’. As Uncle Sheetal began the chanting everyone joined in and with the chorus of voices chanting in unison, the energy was powerful and it was building. Everyone was awaiting the presence of our dear Appaji and the chanting felt in every sense like a call to our Beloved Master to bless us with His Divine Presence.

On the day prior to Guru Purnima our dear Appaji gave Mantra Upadesha to over 600 devotees. This is another example of the abundance of blessings we received. If you were one to receive Mantra Upadesha hopefully you have started chanting your Mantra and the instructions from Yoga Sangeeta will help you with submitting the records of your chants for both.

Here is the link for further information: https://www.facebook.com/notes/yoga-sangeeta/logging-guru-mantra-counts/1759122180804379/

The Surya Deva Raga Sagara Music for Meditation and Healing Concert which will take place in Mexico City on November 17  is being jointly organized and coordinated by longstanding devotees of Pujya Sri Swamiji Yogini Kaliji. They are  Mr Hector Ruiz and his family,  Mr. Venkat Raman and Yogini Kaliji.   The last day of Appaji’s visit to Trinidad marked the official launch of the website https://www.sgsmexico2018.com/   which is the main source of information for this site. You will be delighted to find out that a visit to this site would provide everything you need to find out about this concert, accommodation and other treats to look forward to!   Two things to look forward to are:

1.       Being in the presence of the Divine Master

2.      Being a part of a historic occasion as this is the first concert of its kind to be held in Mexico

Surya Deva Raga SagaraPlease be reminded of all of these ways through which you can serve Sadguru. Here are the ways that were listed for the Guru Purnima post:

·         Practise Sadhana

·         Understand who you are

·         Accept that we are one family

·         Keep your focus and serve

·         Embrace Appaji’s Daily Messages

·         Download Free Apps like SGS Posts, Path, Nadi Shuddi Yoga, Hanuman Chalisa for Parayana, Bhakti Mala English and Livestream and invest in Apps for Purchase like Bhajan Mala, SGS Bhagavad Gita, Divine Darshan,  Kavacha Manjari and Vishnu Sahasranamam from Google Playstore for Android Devices and Apple Store for iOS devices

·         Develop Your Spirituality

·         Ensure that you utilize the services of the bookstores in the Ashrams by purchasing Appaji’s books and cds. Read Appaji’s books, absorb the information in them and put them to daily use. As Appaji says, “Be good, Do Good”. Listen to the music on the cds, learn the bhajans, sing them and glorify the name of God. If purchasing books in print or purchasing cds online is more convenient for  you please avail yourself of the opportunity to obtain them and utilize them

·         Download the free Kindle App for iOS devices, Android devices and Mac or PC,  purchase Appaji’s books that are available in Kindle Edition or get samples of them and add them to a Wishlist so that you can purchase them when you can afford them (Re: https://rachaelathomasj.com/2018/07/17/celebrating-the-availability-of-appajis-books-for-all-datta-devotees-via-kindle-apps)

 

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·         Give food and clothing to the less fortunate

·         Practise Sattvic living

·         Support Shuka Vana 

 

·         Meditate

·         Use food, music and positive lifestyle changes to uplift yourself

·         Learn Bhagavad Gita and Guru Gita

 

Appaji Thank You for all that You have done for us and for all that You continue to do!

In closing I urge you to continue listening to Appaji’s messages. Heed them, “Be Good, Do Good”, keep chanting and continue doing your Seva.  Do enjoy these videos of Appaji singing bhajans that have been posted by Hanuman Hoffman!