Tag: SGSPosts

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 Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Pujya Appaji!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

In this post I am celebrating His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, our dearest Pujya Appaji! Appaji is like no other and those who know His Holiness can surely agree that He has never been! Appaji, over and over again, I place my most humble prostrations at Your Lotus Feet!

Not one day in my life have I ever questioned Appaji or His greatness and Appaji knows I never would. My journey with Appaji began years ago as a little girl seeing His name and trying to say it and practicing it syllable by syllable without knowing Sachchidanda means ‘truth, consciousness and bliss”. To see Pujya Appaji’s smiling face is always a comfort.  To hear His voice, read His messages, go through the different platforms He exposes us to daily is only just a fraction of the many blessings we receive on a daily basis!

From the very first day I saw Pujya Appaji, His priceless smile and His eyes said it all! Every day of our lives with Pujya Appaji has been a blessing and no number of words can adequately say Thank You to His Holiness for all He has done for us and continues to do for us! As I am writing this, I am listening to Appaji’s bhajans, and His voice is my comfort.

Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham

When I posted on Facebook a few days ago it felt like I was looking on at a dream and as these past two weeks have unfolded Appaji and Lord Hanuman showed that together They have provided protection and guidance consistently as always.

 Indeed, I had a career opportunity that I was working towards for over the last eight years. When it came it felt surreal. I had forgotten about it for a bit because of how long I had applied but I was honored to be selected. I spoke to Shiva and let him know I needed the kids and him with me as I couldn’t be away from them for over a month and leave them alone so he knew what my thoughts were and though I followed the instructions I was given, I spoke mentally to Appaji saying, “Whatever You decide I will follow!” The reality was that I just needed to make an effort to show interest and I did, but nothing else was in my hands and with good reason! This job would have placed my entire family in jeopardy because as I said, I would have been on an island waiting with Shiva and our little ones for Hurricane Beryl to hit. Seeing the damage it wreaked on so many people in so many countries, knowing how many people it affected, I know what we were spared from.

My reality is this:

  1. Pujya Appaji and Lord Hanumanta have saved me several times and I will always be eternally grateful for this.
  2. Pujya Appaji has taught me the value of silence on so many levels.
  3. Pujya Appaji has taught me why I need to focus.
  4. Pujya Appaji has given me many avenues to be good and do good.

Like me, many of you can attest to the fact that:

5. Pujya Appaji blesses us each day abundantly and no number of words can adequately say Thank You because we owe Pujya Appaji a debt of gratitude that we can never repay.

6. Pujya Appaji has found so many avenues to interact with us on a daily basis that He reminds us He is always with us. We have Pujya Appaji’s social media platforms, SGS Posts and all other apps, YouTube, the Ashramas and Datta Yoga Centers globally, Kriya Yoga, Bhagavad Gita, Kavachas, daily live sessions, Dattavani speeches and Bhajans just to name a few.

7. Pujya Appaji has established several Bala Datta Centers to ensure that our children are taken care of.

8. Pujya Appaji has authorized the publishing of so many books available in print and as e-books on sites like Amazon.

9. Pujya Appaji has given us Ragas and provided us with Healing Music.

10. Pujya Appaji has and continues to tell us and show us day after day, how to take better care of ourselves.

11. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping us take better care of ourselves.

12. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to serving mankind.

13. Pujya Appaji has and continues to teach us how to take better care of our environment, and by extension, this world we live in.

14. Pujya Appaji’s actions have always been selfless.

15. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping people the world over!

16. Pujya Appaji always urges us to live together.

17. Pujya Appaji does not discriminate.

18. Pujya Appaji is the purest representation of Divinity, Selflessness and all that is good.

19. Pujya Appaji leads by example.

20. Pujya Appaji’s commitment, dedication and love have been unwavering.

21. Pujya Appaji loves us all and that love speaks volumes.

Appaji, we pray for Your Health and will continue to do so! We thank You immensely for all You have done for us and continue to do for us, every second of every day! We love You Appaji!

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating the way forward! Growth and Experience!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

They say in life you win some and you lose some. The reality is every experience is meant to be learnt from. From every experience whether it is negative or positive, there will be a positive and the positive you walk away with is the lesson you learn. Treating someone as they treat you is not the answer and it should never be. The answer is to treat others as you would want to be treated and more so, never do anything you would regret.

Quote by Mother Teresa; Photo Credit: Word on Fire

With experience you will be wiser or at least you should be. Do not let anyone take advantage of you and distance yourself from toxic people.

                                                                 

Now, to look back at 2022 just for example, is to look back at so much and also to relive so much- loss, pain, hurt and negativity. Being the person that I am, I don’t want to go down that road.

Those that we lost are no longer in pain and they are no longer suffering. This is my comfort.

If people chose to come out of our lives then I guess it’s safe to say they did what they wanted to. If people choose to judge us, then so be it. That’s on them, not us!

Also, if people chose to be unfair to us, that’s their cross to bear, not ours.

This being said, it means what you need to do more than anything is to keep your focus and be thankful for your blessings! Remember,

  1. An Attitude of Gratitude
  2. Be Positive 
  3. Carry Only What You need 
  4. Do not give up
  5. Enjoy each moment
  6. Focus your energy on what needs to be done
  7. Give your best always
  8. Have fun doing the things you love
  9. Isolate yourself from toxic people
  10. Judge no one- instead practice self-reflection and analysis
  11. Kindly treat people the way you want to be treated
  12. Live life everyday as if it is your last
  13. Make it your duty not to harm any human or animal
  14. Notice changes all around you- it’s inevitable
  15. Overcoming your obstacles is not out of your reach
  16. Placing yourself in harm’s way is never advised
  17. Quitting is not an option so quit quitting
  18. Realize this journey is yours and not anyone else’s
  19. Search deep within and find what you need
  20. Trust that everything will fall in place
  21. Understand that lots of people where masks and not all smiles are real
  22. Value those who are true to you
  23. Worrying about tomorrow doesn’t help.
  24. Xanadu is the Utopia you create for yourself. 
  25. Yesterday is gone! Learn from it, don’t dwell on it!
  26. Zero in on your tasks 1 by 1!

Surely, we can agree that Everyday Life shares several pertinent messages! Higher Power compliments it perfectly as well! Enjoy the music!

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 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.

fb_img_15712462592402216889477700779621.jpg
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 Happy New Year 2019

Celebrating Life- Happy New Year 2019!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Happy New Year 2019 everyone!

As we bid farewell to 2018 and welcome 2019 here is to wishing you a Bright, Blessed and Happy New Year! Here is to hoping that we can celebrate 2019 together and take it one experience at a time and one opportunity at a time!

Those who know me and who follow my work and my writing would know that this year has been a year of interesting sorts! It has been a combination of happiness, sadness, growth, learning, acceptance and an abundance of blessings. Clearly this has not been the reality for me alone but it is also the reality for many the world over.  As we move forward let’s continue to take it one day at a time and remember that every time you feel down there is always something positive here to help you through a tough day.

For 2019 I urge you to do the following:

·         Take the good with the bad

·         Find a positive to every negative

·         Always be true to yourself

·         Be the best that you can be at all times

·         Live life without regrets

·         Value every moment

·         Count your blessings and be thankful for all that you have

·         Never  waste an opportunity

I urge you once again to please download SGSPosts for positive and uplifting messages if you have not already done this. It is an app which delivers messages by His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji that are based on ‘peace, love, brotherhood and universal co-existence’ across the world.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

You can download it using any of these links:

  1. https://bnc.lt/sgsposts
  2. https://itunes.apple.com/tt/app/sgs-posts/id1097382754?mt=8 (For iPhone users)
  3. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.sgsragasagara.sgs_posts  (For Android users)

Happy New Year 2019! Here is to 365 days of meaningful living, growth and positivity! From my entire family to you and your family best wishes for a blessed year ahead! 

Posted in Being Prayerful, karma, Life

Celebrating the Law of Karma

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

“A boomerang  returns back to the person who throws it.” -Vera Nazarian

“Some day people will ask me what is the key to my success…and I will simply say, “Good Karma.”- K. Crumley

This post is dedicated to Celebrating Karma! Many may think it is quite a strange post but honestly to me it is not and as you read on you will understand exactly why this is so!

karma

With regards to the question, why did I choose to celebrate karma this is why- if you know you are living a good life then you have nothing to worry about. More so, if you know that you live according to the line,  “Treat others as you would like to be treated”, then surely you have nothing to worry about. This is the way I have always lived and it has always shaped my life. I am eternally grateful to my parents (my Mom, Mrs. Doris Thomas and my Dad, the late Mr. Ramchit Ramesh Thomas)  for bringing me up the way they did and for the guidance they provided. Also I am eternally grateful for the guidance of His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda who we affectionately refer to as our Appaji who on a daily basis reminds us we are on the right track when we “Do Good” and “Be Good”.

Karma can be either good or bad. This is because good actions and thoughts merit good results and vice versa for bad karma. Nothing good can come from doing bad.

I am not one to live with my head in the clouds and I do not intend to start now. The numerous problems plaguing our country is highly disturbing (people losing jobs over the last couple years, the events of the last week with the closure of the oil refinery, medical centres and administrative offices which displaced so many more, cost of living being what it is, people losing everything due to flooding throughout the country, news of more and more people missing on a daily basis) and this reminds us urgently that we must keep praying and keep our faith.

So then why hurt others?
Why be selfish?
Why be unfair to others?
Why try to take what is not yours?
Why take advantage of others?
Why disregard others?
Why take joy in the pain of others?
Why place people in unfair situations to get something?
Why be greedy?
Why do you choose not to be straight with others?

There is no point in any of these negative acts!

Instead we should aim to do the following:
1. Help others
2. Be kind
3. Look out for each other
4. Take an active role in making positive change rather than be a passive bystander
5. Do what we can to protect each other
6. Be fair in our thinking and in our actions
7. Treat others in the same manner that we would like to be treated
8. Do your best at all times
9. Make a concerted effort not to hurt others
10. Think before we act
11. Practice active listening
12. Be the change that we want to see in others
13. Focus on our goals
14. Realize that when something feels wrong it usually is
15. Understand that doing good comes from being good
16. Accept that staying away from toxic people is advised as it helps to remove the cloud of negativity that can damage you
17. Never lose hope and accept that God does not leave you alone
18. Trust yourself
19. Be your best friend rather than your worst enemy
20. Remember that life’s journey does not come without challenges

https://youtu.be/6TeZtII7maM

 

 

 

Posted in Being Prayerful, Blessings from Appaji

Blessings from Appaji-Divali 2018!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

On this blessed occasion of Divali 2018 it is indeed an opportunity to remember how blessed and fortunate we are.

IMG-20181106-WA0025
We are alive, we are given the opportunity to be good and do good, we are given the opportunity to burn up bad karma, we are given the opportunity to do seva, we are blessed to have a human body and walk the earth while Divine Beings have taken physical form to guide and protect us.

In this past week we were blessed with good news coming from the His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji:
• SgsPosts has been downloaded over 100k times (Jaya Guru Datta! Sri Guru Datta! Sadguru Maharaj Ki Jai!)
• Appaji has inaugurated the Avadhoota Datta Peetham SriSailam Ashrama in Andhra Pradesh
• Another Bhagavad Gita class was opened to allow interested persons to learn Bhagavad Gita by memory or by fluency in pronunciation and recitation.

45303260_10155982069293450_3678342573639860224_n
Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham

45510986_10155983007543450_7264679242628071424_n
Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham


Just a little over a week ago (October 28) we were blessed with news that the Yoga Sangeeta App for Android users was released thereby making it easier for us to submit our Mantra count (Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha). What some may not know is that when His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji instructed devotees to chant the Mantra it was not just for peace and prosperity in Trinidad and Tobago but it was for worldwide peace and prosperity. More people are heeding the call to chant “Shivaaya Rudraaya Namaha” and the sincere hope is that many more will continue to do so!

Then here in Trinidad we were faced with numerous challenges but we united as a people in several ways in spite of the fact that some were highly unfair and inhumane.

How?

Here is how:

1.       Many people rendered assistance to those affected by  last month’s flooding (preparing meals and distributing them, rescuing people who were  trapped, providing clothes, mattresses and cleaning agents, spreading messages on social media on how to help people affected by flood waters,  giving cash and housing accommodation to those displaced by the floods)

https://www.meppublishers.com/trinidad-tobago-floods-2018-how-to-help/#axzz5W8dgRYDC

https://sewausa.org/Trinidad-and-Tobago-Floods-2018

http://www.looptt.com/content/list-donation-drop-points-tt-mobilises-help-flood-victims

2.      Many people showed that we do not live according to lines of religion, ethnicity or politics.

3.      Many people heeded a call to render humanitarian service to others and they did it selflessly.

4.      People began sending out messages to alert others on how to find those who were in distress (giving them directions).

5.      Those who could not do anything substantial (by way of monetary aide or purchasing things needed for homes) offered prayers for those in need of help and also offered words of comfort and encouragement via social media.

How then should we move forward?

1.       Continue helping each other

2.      Continue being thankful for all blessings

3.      Do not give up

4.      Focus on positivity rather than negativity

5.      Never run from a challenge but stand tall in the face of adversity

6.      Always aim to be the best that you can be!

7.      Follow the teachings of our Divine Master (who is the absolute and is purity and humility personified) and pay careful attention to the inspirational posts in SGSPosts.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.sgsragasagara.sgs_posts

https://itunes.apple.com/in/app/sgs-posts/id1097382754?mt=8

 

 

 

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!

37855343_1988643881165922_970841021837475840_n

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.

appajis message

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)

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

·         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!