Tag: Mysore India

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Sri Swamiji’s Guinness World Records and the Living Forest of Peace

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Yes, this post is dedicated to His Holiness and celebrating Him. He is our dearest Pujya Appaji. I have never had a reason to doubt Appaji and very often I refer to Him as the Divine Master and sometimes too, the Bearded Master who is filled with compassion.

As many know, the spiritual legacy of His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, founder of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, is filled not only with divine teachings and healing music, but also with miraculous achievements that continue to inspire the world. Pujya Appaji can be described in so many ways. He is His Holiness, Appaji, Tataji, Aripo Muni Raja, Nada Brahma and so much more. His life is a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, dedication, He is purity, He is peace and tranquility, He is sincerity in its purest form, He is wisdom at its fullest and day in day out, every waking second, moment after moment, He continues to make a global impact—and many of these threads have been officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

Today’s was the most recent. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1667rzsLez/ What was it for?

A Living Miracle: 10,836 Rare Bonsai Trees

Today, June 14th, 2025 the Guinness World Records awarded a new title to His Holiness Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji and Avadhoota Datta Peetham for housing 10,836 of the world’s rarest bonsai trees in one single location. This sacred forest of miniatures—each a living soul—forms the largest bonsai collection in the world. These trees are not just a botanical marvel but also a symbol of patience, care, and spiritual discipline.

Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam: A Prayer for the Planet

What sets this divine garden apart is not just the trees, but the sacred rituals that breathe life into them. Pujya Appaji performed the Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam, a powerful Vedic ceremony dedicated to Mother Nature and the guardian deity of forests, Vanadurga Devi. This ancient yagna was conducted in the very presence of these rare bonsais—a spiritual act to invoke healing, harmony, and balance for all living beings and the natural world.

This Guinness World Record Pujya Appaji said, “Thank You team Bonsai. Today’s Bonsai Guinness Record is not just my effort; it is the effort of many in the background.” https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16WyYR4W6h/

So what are Pujya Appaji’s other record-breaking feats of devotion and harmony?

Pujya Appaji’s mission of global peace and spiritual healing has led to numerous Guinness World Records, including:

  • Most people chanting (Hanuman Chalisa) Led 128,918 participants in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh
  • Largest music therapy lesson- Conducted a therapy session with 1,814 participants at the Sydney Opera House on 6 April 2015
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A relay of continuous chanting for 24 hr 10 min 8 sec at Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple, Frisco, Texas on 31 July 2015
  • Largest breathing (pranayama) lesson- Hosted at India Community Center, Milpitas, California, USA on 10 July 2016.
  • Largest online video album of people chanting- Compiled 40,976 individual chanting videos; announced in Carapichaima, Trinidad and Tobago on 31 July 2016.
  • Largest display of bonsai trees-Showcased 2,649 bonsai trees at the International Bonsai Convention in Mysore Ashram on 21 December 2016.
  • Most bird species in an aviary. His Shuka Vana aviary housed 486 bird species on 6 May 2017.
  • Largest Hindu Smriti (scriptural text)
    A monumental Bhagavad Gita Smriti measuring 2.24 m × 1.56 m, completed on 26 May 2017.
  • World’s largest special postal stamp
    Made by Avadhoota Datta Peetham, 2.87 m², on 26 May 2018
  • Largest online video album of birthday wishes/greetings- Compiled 7,651 birthday-message videos on 10 June 2022 to celebrate Pujya Appaji’s 80th birthday.
  • Largest online video album of people walking; Included 6,389 walking-video submissions tied to the “Vishwashanti Padā Yātrā” virtual walkathon on 10 June 2022.
  • Largest simultaneous Hindu text recital- 1,329 participants recited the Srimad Bhagavad Gita together at Allen Event Center, Texas on 13 August 2022.
  • Largest special stamp (Nada Mantapa image)-Measuring 13.104 m², created at Avadhoota Datta Peetham, Mysuru on 13 December 2024.
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A new record of 33 hr 33 min 33 sec of continuous Hanuman Chalisa team chanting, held 12–13 December 2024 at Nada Mantapa

These are all rooted in the Swamiji’s vision of “Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu” – May all beings everywhere be happy and peaceful.

Pujya Appaji’s messages are messages beyond records. These world records are not mere numbers. They represent a global spiritual movement led by a realized Master who walks gently on Earth while guiding millions toward inner peace. From sacred chants that echo healing to ancient trees that whisper wisdom, Pujya Appaji’s works are a reminder that divine miracles happen not only in the heavens but also on Earth, when one lives in service to all life. Pujya Appaji’s remarkable achievements span spiritual, ecological, musical, and community domains—reflecting his holistic vision of service, harmony, and global unity.

Let us bow in gratitude and wonder at the divine mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, whose legacy continues to grow—like the sacred bonsais—quietly powerful, deeply rooted, and eternally inspiring. Sri Guru Datta.

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating a Living Light: His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

In a world filled with noise, confusion, and change, there are rare souls who radiate unwavering peace and divine purpose. His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji is one such living light—a beacon of love, wisdom, and healing whose presence has touched countless lives across the globe. This year, Pujya Sri Appaji celebrates 83 years. He is the epitome of Truth, Knowledge, and Bliss.

Son of Sri Narahari Teertha Swami and Jayalakshmi Maata, Pujya Appaji was born in 1942 in Andhra Pradesh, India, at the sacred confluence of three rivers – the Arkavati River, the Kaveri River and the Guptagaamini River. Pujya Appaji has dedicated His life to uplifting humanity through the ancient yet timeless path of Dharma, Bhakti, and Seva. A spiritual master, yogi, musician, and compassionate healer, His Holiness is the revered founder of Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, a vibrant spiritual and cultural center that offers spiritual guidance, Vedic knowledge, and charitable services to all, regardless of religion or background.

In creating a greeting I was looking for a particular photo of Pujya Appaji (one I had not used before) and I kid you not when I say that a lot of photos with Pujya Appaji show His Holiness either with a microphone in front of Him, or Him doing pooja or something of the sort and it made me smile. Why? It was this thought in my mind, ‘Rachael, your Appaji is always doing something. He is selfless and it is always for the good of mankind.’ 83 years is a milestone and 83 also has other significance for me, and will there are so many things I can share that would show why I don’t question His Holiness, I will say this. My understanding of who Pujya Appaji is began long before I physically met Him. It began with a fascination with His name and saying it over and over because in addition to being was very young at the time, I liked the way His name sounds.

I have experienced His Grace and His compassion in so many ways. I always feel His presence, His energy and His Love. This is why I always say, “Thank you Appaji for all that You do and continue to do. Please accept my humble Prostations at Your Lotus Feet.”

The Power of Divine Music

One of Pujya Appaji’s most extraordinary gifts is His healing music. Through His soul-stirring Raga Sagara concerts, He brings together music and meditation, soothing the mind and awakening the soul. His Holiness has even been recognized by Guinness World Records for His musical achievements, yet His humble mission remains the same—to heal, inspire, and reconnect humanity with the Divine through sound.

Pujya Appaji is both timeless and relevant. While rooted in the deep wisdom of the ancient rishis, He speaks to the modern seeker with clarity and compassion. Whether through discourses, bhajans, or silent blessings, He opens the door for each soul to walk its own unique path toward peace and self-realization.

He teaches not only through words, but through His actions—feeding the hungry, healing the sick, protecting nature, and uplifting the downtrodden. His global humanitarian work reflects a deep understanding that true spirituality is lived through service, love, and unity.

To be in Pujya Appaji presence—even through a video, bhajan, or written word—is to feel a rare silence, a rare joy. Devotees describe a sense of calm, direction, and a reminder that no matter how dark life seems, there is always divine light waiting within.

He reminds us that God is not distant, but near. That our breath, our heartbeats, our very existence is sacred. And that by living with truth, humility, and devotion, we can transform our lives and uplift others.

As we celebrate the life and mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, let us take a moment to reflect on the grace He brings into this world. May we honor His teachings not just in word, but in practice—by being kind, by being present, and by walking the path of love.

Sri Guru Datta!

Posted in Blessings from Appaji, Life, Nature and the Environment

Celebrating Life: Protecting the Environment

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/habitats/plastic-pollution/
A simple click on the above link would help to paint the picture of the reality that mankind faces as a result of plastic pollution.
One very important fact we can all attest to is that the Earth is in trouble because of our use of plastics. This is primarily due to how humans pollute the Earth because of the way plastics are used and more so because of the way plastics are disposed of.

On October 17, 2019 His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda issued a call for all ashramites to stop using plastic. To each His Holiness provided an eco toothbrush.
Those who are devotees and followers of His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda would surely understand that His Holiness does nothing that is against nature and He also does nothing that is against mankind. Instead it is the very opposite and His love knows no bounds. His actions are always filled with thought, love, sincerity and compassion and this is always directed at all of Creation.

His visit to Antarctica https://www.dattapeetham.org/events/2013/sri-swamiji-in-antarctica-29-dec-2013-to-07-jan-2014 is an example of this. The care given to animals wherever His Holiness goes is another indication of this. Shuka Vana which is home to over 475 species of birds, the koi pond, the Bonsai Garden which has a plant for each of the 365 days of the year, the Gau Shala and His visit to various places around the world is proof of this. One particular memory which stands out in my mind is seeing squirrels and monkeys up and down trees and running around the Ashrama. The way that they are comfortable and the way that they are at peace is evident. No questions need to be asked. The truth is they may not be able to live as peacefully as this in any other part of the country.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SsZNMiGk4U&feature=youtu.be
As humans we owe it to Mother Earth (Dharti Maa) to take care of Her because she has blessed us with the food which sustains and nourishes us and the land where we make our homes. However we should not take care of the Earth because we feel obligated to but it should be because we care and we genuinely want to.
One very real way of doing that is by reducing our use of plastics. It is doable and it is very possible. All it requires is firm conviction (your thought and belief process) and action (actually efforts and measures to reduce your use of plastics).

Here as some ways to help the environment:
1. Recycle- ( glass bottles, plastic bottles, paper, unused books)
You can do this by checking locally in your country of residence for this. Those who live in Trinidad and Tobago can refer to this previous post (https://rachaelathomasj.com/2018/01/23/celebrating-nature-recyling)
2. Reduce wastage meaning use just what is needed. Do not use what is not needed. Do not be complacent and mismanage. Such actions will not help anyone.
3. Support animal relief efforts. Provide help at animal shelters or render assistance by helping however you can – feeding, care and the upkeep of the homes of animals. Share information on protecting endangered species and lead by example. Whether it is leather back turtles, birds, fishes or snakes, help animals that you can help.
4. Switch to eco friendly products. His Holiness set a precedent at the Mysore Ashrama. No use of plastics now means eco friendly toothbrushes, compostable garbage bags and no plastic bottles. In essence it means an opportunity to now use eco friendly water bottles that are BPA free and greater use of copper water bottles. These are products you can adopt in your everyday lives. These products are available online and many businesses in Trinidad have eco friendly bags for when you purchase goods or they allow you to bring your eco-friendly bags.

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Photo Credit: Sgs Swamiji

This being said it is advisable to do some research and find out what is available where you live. Go through the internet, go through social media and see what is available for you!
Here are some other things you can also look into using:
1. Bamboo cutlery
2. Compostable plates
3. Bamboo fiber cleaning towels
4. Recyclable storage bags
5. Dissolvable due free detergent
6. Reusable bottles
7. Reusable coffee cups
8. Metal straws
9. Paper wrapping
Every step counts! Every action matters! Do what you can and make a difference! Save a life, help protect our Earth!

Posted in IT Guru Seva,, Uncategorized, You Tube

Celebrating Divinity: Appaji’s Trinidad visit 2016!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

20160727_221948Jaya Guru Datta!

On July 26th, 2016  His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda arrived in Trinidad.

It was a day devotees and members of the Datta family were looking forward to and many were determined to spend as much time as they could in the divine presence of Sri Swamiji.

Here are some pictures that show the welcome Sri Swamiji received:

 

 

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Many  turned out in their numbers from the night of Appaji’s arrival to the time of His departure and His visit was marked by a number of very memorable occasions, namely:

Witnessing Appaji performing puja on a daily basis was not an opportunity to miss!

appaji-doing-puja2

 

Listening to Sri Swamiji’s discourses were as always very inspiring.

appaji-doing-puja

As always there is a message for everyone and it is important to put it to use! Here are some useful links:

Hearing Appaji singing Bhajans

Receiving Sri Swamiji’s darshan is indescribable! It is a divine blessing and one to cherish!

 

The consecration rituals and ceremony for the murtis of Lord  Rama’s  Parivaar and Lord Satyanarayan at Dattatreya Yoga Centre in Carapichaima.

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Appaji, our Swamiji, His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda was presented with His 5th Guinness World Record

appaji-world-record

Epic Hanuman Chalisa ChanTTing here Hanuman Chalisa Chanting was led by His Holiness Sri Swamiji:

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The consecration of the Shiva Lingam and the Murti of Mother Durga at the Datta Shiva Ram Temple in Princes Town and the consecration of the Navgrahas at the Sri Sachchidananda Yoga Ashram in Penal were two more very memorable occasions and these will be shared in a later post. Here are some pictures from these events so you have a great idea of what those posts  will include:

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Many were sad to see Appaji leave but as Appaji says, “I am always here, I am always with you!”

Appaji we love You!  Appaji Thank You for giving us Your continued Darshan! Appaji Thank You for showering us with Your Love  and Thank You for taking care of us! We are proud members of the Datta family! We are proud and humbled to have You as our Appaji, our Swamiji, our Sadguru and so much more!

Sadguru Maharaj Ki Jai! Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Ki Jai! Jai Veer Hanuman! Karya Siddhi Hanuman Ki  Jai!

 

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating Spirituality: Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji receives Record Certificate for newest Guinness World Record

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

You may have heard of it and then again you may not have! If you have not my duty is to inform you of it.

Did you hear of the mass chanting of Hanuman Chalisa for world peace in Tenali, Andra Pradhesh, India? On January 31, 2015 Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachidananda Swamiji of Mysore, India was presented with a Record Certificate for setting a new world record in the category of mass chanting for the most people chanting from a single location.

Have a look at this video:

or

This Ad was courtesy Sree Raman
This Ad was courtesy Sree Raman

As a Press release available on YogaSangeeta so aptly states, “At a time of constant turmoil, mass killings, and natural disasters happening in different parts of the world, His Holiness Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, pontiff of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham of Mysore, India led a mass chanting session on January 31st, 2015 in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh in India for the benefit of world peace. This mammoth effort, aimed at benefiting all beings and the atmosphere, has been aptly recognized by the “Guinness World Records”.

We wish we could have been there for this major event but we are thankful for an opportunity to serve. Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachidananda has asked that everyone sings Hanuman Chalisa a minimum of 40 times. Chant Hanuman Chalisa yourself, share it with your loved ones and spread the word that chanting Hanuman Chalisa is very important. It is for your own benefit.

Sri Hanumanji- Om Namo Hanumate Namaha!
Sri Hanumanji- Om Namo Hanumate Namaha!

As Sri Swamiji explained in this press release, “Hanuman Chalisa is a very ancient prayer dating back over 500 years. This particular prayer is especially chosen for chanting since the collective sound vibrations will create positive impact thereby promoting universal brotherhood, and aiding in the well-being of the entire universe.” In recent times, scientific research has also revealed that sound waves formed while chanting are converted into electro-magnetic waves and potentially provide enormous positive impact on beings and atmosphere.”

Datta devotees would be fully aware of this instruction for mass chanting of Hanuman Chalisa. Should it be the first time you are hearing of this please feel free to contact me via this post so that I can give you further details.

To see for yourself how this newest addition to the Guinness World Record was received look at the links above and below.

Here is how it was received by several news agencies:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/4-hour-non-stop-Hanuman-Chalisa-sets-world-record/articleshow/46082473.cms

http://apview.com/tv5-telugu/videos/380634-swamy-ganapathi-sachidananda-guiness-book-of-world-record-tv5-news.html

http://www.bharatnewschannels.com/tv9kannadanews-watchonline/mysuru-4-hour-non-stop-hanuman-chalisa-sets-guinness-world-record-video_e2217aa98.html

Jai Guru Datta! Sri Guru Datta! Lots of love to Sri Appaji and everyone this post reaches!