The mind of our making

 Thought is powerful. By nurturing a positive thought, we can face life bravely.

I remember as a child, I used humorous poems and rhymes to distract me in moments I might’ve felt some fear. As I grew up, I learnt to face difficult  situations by reading powerful books, meditating, doing lots of outdoor activities etc. I also learnt that every trial is an awakening call. I realized that by changing perceptions in a productive way, one can face life better.

For many years, scientists believed that the brain was a static structure and after a certain age, it cannot be changed.

But now medical research from Harvard medical school, University of Illinois and others have shown that the structural brain and its ability to form new neural pathways are two very different things. While it’s true that there are structural changes in the brain just as there are in the body, it doesn’t mean that it can’t ’grow’ new capabilities. This ability of the brain to change, offers  hope to anybody at any stage of life. It is proved that brain is not fixed, it is dynamic and adaptable. It is known today as ‘Neuroplasticity’.  It means the brain can change,  grow capabilities, reorganize its structure and connection throughout life, by learning and gaining new experiences. 

Plasticity means to be flexible, to rewire. And neuroplasticity refers to that quality.  It is indeed a great discovery of modern science. 

The ancient system of Yoga, which is a combination of Asana (physical postures) , Pranayam (life force control) and Meditation ( concentration of mind) help to rewire our brain in a unique and powerful way. Physical postures enhances blood flow and rebalances the nervous system, and also improves balance in the body. Pranayama regulates life's energy and makes our energy body whole. Meditation creates mental clarity and enriches our perceptive capacity. 

Neuroplasticity may be activated by learning a new language, a new skill like playing a musical instrument, or navigating through new adventures. Also brain games like chess , scrabble etc can improve Neuro plasticity. 

Many ancient practices in Yogic science promote the birth of new neurons in our brain, which are vital for our memories and perception.  

As we all tread on the path to being older , we must try to activate neuroplasticity in our daily lives to retain and develop the one unique capacity that can be shaped outside of the limits of the body. The mind. Unless  we learn to be masters of our own mind, we will always be the victim of circumstance. And aging.

Though Paramhansa Yogananda lived much before this modern term Neuro plasticity entered the main stream, he always believed that only with focused thought and will power, rewiring of the brain power is possible. As he said, "if you want to be sad, no one in the world can make you happy. But if you make up your mind to be happy, then no one on earth can take that happiness from you"

 .As being the flame of infinity, we all have that power. The Neuro plasticity of our mind is in our hands, only we need determination and will power to activate it.

Expressions are born of impressions

While growing up in Santiniketan, I was much inspired by Tagore’s poems on Buddha. 

Remembering Buddha’s consecration ceremony at Sarnath, Tagore dedicated this poem to him. “ O serene, O free in thy immeasurable mercy and goodness, wipe away all dark stains from the heart of this earth “. A big fresco painting of a meditative Buddha, surrounded by demonic figures (depicting anger, lust, greed, hate, etc.), was painted in the main hall of the Chinese study center (China Bhavan) of Santiniketan. My child mind questioned how one can retain calmness and serenity while being threatened by such demonic distractions. 

Buddha was born as Prince Siddhartha and grew up in a luxurious life. But at a very young age, upon observing the harsh realities of sickness, aging, and death, he renounced his princely life and embraced the hard life of a monk to find out the truth of life. After becoming an enlightened soul, he prescribed the eightfold path for all to be happy. They are: Right view, Right thought, Right speech, Right action, Right livelihood, Right effort, Right knowledge, and Right meditation.

To remember more easily, these eight steps are grouped in three categories, and they are as follows: Wisdom, ethical conduct, and Mental discipline. Wisdom tells us to see things as they are, to view their impermanence and interconnectedness. Secondly, ethical conduct focuses on right speech (not lying, no harsh words), right action (not stealing, not harming, no sexual misconduct), and it also prescribes right and honest actions to make a living. And lastly, mindfulness prescribes developing the power of concentration and mindfulness through meditation. Buddha’s formula prescribes that only we can save ourselves with our own efforts. 

Appreciating practical and rational approach of Buddhism, Einstein  rightly  said, “If there is any religion that would cope with modern scientific needs, it would be Buddhism “

As a young girl, when I visited Bodh Gaya and was blessed to sit under the cool shade of the same Peepal tree (Bodhi Briksha), where Buddha became an enlightened soul thousands of years  before. The Peepal tree is a unique tree whose branches touch the ground to become secondary roots. The sun and the soil in a singular cycle of energy that powers the long life of the Peepal tree and the luxury of life it affords all in its shade. The universal principles of Buddhism are quite similar in that they can be applied to inner meditative states as much as the outward expression of how to live well in this world. 

These days when I open the morning news paper, or T.V, I find only disturbing news of violence, crimes and wars, which  tell me to open a chapter of Buddhism again. Though Science and technology has brought much comfort in modern life, it has failed to bring peace, harmony and good will. It is time to connect the founding principles of inner peace and clarity with external expressions of it.

The yoga of me and you as one

21st June is celebrated as International Yoga Day. The Sanskrit word “Yoga “ means union. Its relevance seems to be significant in today’s life. 

The first authentic description in “Yoga Sutra”, written by sage Patanjali in 200 B.C. In that book, he wrote about eight essential steps to follow to achieve enlightenment in life. As a flower bud gradually opens its petals to spread its fragrance all around, so too each person has the potential to blossom in many ways in life through the sincere practice of Yoga. 
Those prescribed eight steps are as follows: 1. Yama, practice of social ethics, 2. Niyama, practice of self-discipline, 3. Asana, practice of physical postures, 4. Pranayama, practice of mindful breathing, 5. Pratyahar, the practice of withdrawing the mind from outside stimuli, 6. Dharana, Practice to focus the mind inward, 7. Dhyana develops uninterrupted concentration, 8. In the final stage of Samadhi, one dissolves individual consciousness into Universal consciousness. 

Yoga Science was brought to the West by great saints such as Swami Vivekananda, Paramhansa Yogananda, Swami Rama, and many others more than 100 years ago. Western rational mind accepted Yoga only when they saw its miraculous results proved by scientific tests and often with perfect breath control, masters could demonstrate the union of body and mind through meditation, breath control and its manifestation on heart rate, as a starting point . Now Yoga is whole heartedly accepted by all and  many great western Yogis are inspiration for all in today’s world. 

My first encounter with Yoga was through a dramatic performance that lit up a lifelong interest in yoga. As a young girl I went to see a Yoga demonstration by students of the famous yoga Guru Bishtu Ghosh, (his student Manotosh Roy  had become world famous as the first Asian Mr. Universe). In that show, a young student named Reba Rakshit, had an elephant walk over a plank across her chest while she held her breath using pranayama. Also with her powerful concentration, she could pierce a row of balloons hanging a far distance behind her by their reflection in a mirror in front of her.  These are all good, but we must stay focused on the spirit of Yoga and that is to feel oneness with all. That goal is beautifully expressed in these few lines of Tagore’s song, “ I must meet you, not in solitude; you are mine where you are with all. Love spreads like light, and O my beloved, where you belong to every one, there you belong to me “(Geetabitan) .

The superscience of energy

 In the deep silence of night, when we look at the starry sky or sit by the sea, watching the rise and fall of waves in the ocean, our hearts fill with peaceful tranquility, which comes down as blessings from God. Nature always transmits this life-giving energy to all living beings on this earth, helping us live, think, and act in many creative ways.

Throughout the ages, scientists, philosophers, poets, and spiritual masters have tried to understand this mysterious life-giving energy using whatever tools of understanding they had, and to use it in many different ways.

Scientists termed this energy “Electromagnetic energy,” commonly referred to as E.M.E. It was first discovered by a Danish physicist in 1890. Interestingly, in the animal world, sharks have sensors for this energy in their snout, which helps them detect even subtle muscular movements from a long distance and catch their prey easily.

In today’s world, by harnessing this energy, scientists have invented many useful devices that have made life more comfortable in many ways. The list is endless, like smartphones, TVs, microwaves, etc. Even medical diagnostic equipment, like ultrasound, MRI, CT scanners, etc., operates using E.M.E.

All living beings receive this vital energy, free of cost, from nature, like sunlight, pure air, water, earth, and space. that provides this life-giving energy to all living beings on this earth.

Unfortunately, the flow of this vital energy is being disturbed by many faults of our wrong lifestyle. Overpopulation, usage of plastic, emissions of harmful gases, and frequent wars are all causing not only a threat to individuals' existence, but also increasing anxiety and creating vibratory imbalance in the ether and in the whole world.

So time has come to think, how to solve this problem with deeper understanding.

Spiritualist and philosophers suggest that, before trying to change the world, first we must change our own  attitude from negativity to positivity. As each oceanic wave has tremendous unseen power to bring water from mid sea to the shore, like that, every individual, with his positive and constructive thought can bring a significant change all around. We only radiate that energy which we possess. Yogananda righty said, “change your thought if you want to change your circumstances". As a beautiful flowering tree from a tiny hidden seed under the soil, each  positive and constructive thought, energised by Yoga, meditation, and compassion can create wonders around us. Long back, Tagore visualising this disharmony, wrote, “The world today is wild with the delirium of hatred, …crooked are its paths, tangled it’s bonds of greed…, Thou giver of immoral gifts, ..give us the power of renunciation, and claim from us our pride. ..Wipe away all dark stains from the heart of this earth.”(Geetabitan).

May Bengal reclaim it's past glory

Experiences from early life never fade away; often, like a distant fragrance of a wildflower. Though I spent most of my life outside Bengal, the nostalgic memories from my early life there still inspire me. Historically, Bengal was a forerunner in many fields, such as social reform, the freedom struggle, and education. It was a culture steeped as much in science as arts and literature. High intellectualism coexisted with high spirituality. This could be seen in books and inventions as much as it was rendered through folk songs in the 'Baul' tradition. As a great social reformer around India's independence, Gopal Krishna Gokhale once rightly said at the time, “What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow".

Bengal’s history is deeply intertwined with the mother cult. Throughout the ages, it showed profound respect for female divinity as the ultimate source of power. Women were viewed as the manifestation of this divine force. Great saints like Ramakrishna, Vivekananda, and many others worshipped matri Shakti through Durga and Kali pujas. Even young girls were worshipped as manifestations of divine feminine energy. It was a social duty to respect and protect their honour. Unfortunately, over time, Bengal lost its former glory and began to break the norms of a civilized society in many ways. Violence and physical assault on women became rampant, factories closed, the standard of education came down, and as people started migrating to other states to make a living, illegal migration from neighboring countries became rampant.

But as people never lost hope, a beautiful line of Shelley  floated in to my mind, “ If winter comes , can spring be far behind.” Recently , A miraculous change was brought by people, who decided to throw away the present  corrupt government , and replaced  it by  welcoming  a new promising one. I was inspired to read an inspiring story about an insignificant poor woman , reported casually in the daily news paper - Kalika Majhi, the poorest of the poor and a domestic maid, offered her free service for election work towards achieving change in Bengal. Her dedicated, selfless service was noticed, and the political party she volunteered for named her as a local candidate for election, which she won , and is now a member of the legislative assembly. She didn't have the money to buy a new sari to wear and so her kind employer, presented her a beautiful new sari to put on for her auspicious oath taking ceremony. 

Many such inspiring people like her are still there in Bengal - people who can blossom if inspired. In years past, this unbreakable spirit of Bengal was beautifully expressed in the few lines of a patriotic song written by Tagore ,  “ The soil, the water, the air of Bengal may be blessed….Homes , trades, forests and fields of Bengal may be satiated…. The souls, the thoughts of brothers and sisters of Bengal may unite , oh my Lord “

The recent political change in Bengal after decades of corruption and decay inspired me to think again about Bengal’s glorious past, the economic,political, and social turmoil of the present, and also the rainbow of possibility to meet the aspirations of the downtrodden people of Bengal, for a better future that reflects its past.

The technology of peace is truth

All through the ages, wars have been declared by the old and rich, where the young and the poor fight and lose their lives. The damage done can never be fixed later. Wars are never declared out of ignorance, but always to fulfil self interest and greed. It is surely not a pursuit of a civilized mind, where money is spent to invent devices to kill each other and have no time to work on how to bring peace. Referring to this shortsighted mindset, Albert Einstein said that, “ I know not with what weapons world war 3 will be fought, but world war 4 will be fought with sticks and stones.

All through the ages, the cause behind any war is human greed, hatred, and anger. With greater technology and brainpower, men could invent bombs to bring the world to pieces, but were unable to develop the feelings of the heart to bring peace.

Referring to global problems (climate change, inequality, and conflict), the Dalai Lama recently said that they cannot be solved by technology alone and require a shift in consciousness. It is true that with the help of science (artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and other powerful technology), men can live physically much better, but unless human values are not developed from early age, life can never be peaceful. As Buddha said, “Mind is not a dustbin to keep anger, hatred and jealousy. It is a treasure box to keep love, happiness, and sweet memories.”

Ancient Indian civilisation and it’s major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism), always emphasised the balanced development of head and heart, and enshrined as the only way towards the true progress of humanity. Unless these ethical values are imparted to young minds, we can never expect future generations to have a healthy body and mind.
Ancient Indian texts such as the Rig Veda and Upanishad (originated in 1500-800 BCE), also refer to the universal law of Karma. It says every soul is free to make any choice. But whatever energy a person puts in to the world (positive or negative), will become the domain that person person inhabits. Like a mirror, each thought, word and action is reflected back to create our own reality. So it is essential to know the importance of humility and an open heart. Only with money power and superior technology, no nation can progress much, and one must willingly embrace the wisdom of old civilisations to our own benefit. 

Truth is like a pole star that always shines through the ages and doesn't differs based on location and time. As human beings we may be angry sometimes, but it is not okay to be cruel. Abraham Lincoln rightly said, “the best way to destroy an enemy, is to make him a friend “

Life is simpler than we think

There is a Bengali proverb, which says,” people can endure hardship and struggle more, only on a full stomach. “( Pete khele pithe soi). So the consumption of good food is the first priority for a good life. Today's problem isn't having too little food but having too much of it, and perhaps not the healthiest kinds.

Human nature is complex, but food plays a key role in shaping individuals. Someone who is upset will often eat emotionally, typically potato chips, ice cream, chocolate, etc. Foods laden with sugar and simple carbohydrates release glucose immediately, creating a 'high'. A plate of fruits or green salad doesn't quite seem as appetizing to such a person. So the link between our mood and our food choices is quite easy to observe. Constant and abundant consumption of such foods can be a cause of many common ailments of our time - heart disease, diabetes, and other inflammatory diseases, early aging, chronic pain, etc., connected to obesity. So, in effect, an unbalanced mind will crave an unbalanced diet, and a mentally unhealthy world is also a physically unhealthy world. 

Medical research has now established a clear link between high intake of red meat and processed meats and increased rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, premature death, etc. At an energetic level, meat retains the vibration of pain and fear of dying animals, and can destroy the equilibrium of the human body, mind, and environment eventually. This is why Buddhists choose to follow a vegetarian diet. Bhagavad Gita establishes that, “in every living being there is spirit soul" (chapter 14 verse 4).  So the view that human life has great value and animal life does not is largely a western idea. It is now well established that natural foods like raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, lentils, dairy proteins, all have a harmonious and strengthening effect on human body, mind, brain cells and intelligence. 

The formula for having good health, depends much on the right combination of proper diet, exercises, (physical and breathing), practice of meditation to increase the power of concentration, and elimination of negative feelings etc.
As body and mind are closely related and are governed by the soul, so they all have to work in harmony. A cheerful , positive and courageous mind  can easily cross over many hurdles of life easily. As another popular proverb says, ”there is no nourishment like happiness” (Khushi Jaisa khurak nahi.).

Hearty laughter is like a sunshine - it brightens any situation and all who are exposed to it. It can drive away gloomy dark cloud instantly. Unfortunately, in today’s high tech world, a hearty laughter is rare to find among an apparently well-connected world. Paramhansa Yogananda says, "when one is joyful within, he invites the help of the inexhaustible power of God....A genuine smile distributes the cosmic currents, (prana) to every body's cells." 

A happy man is less subject to disease.
And the formula to stay happy  and healthy is to live simply. Dream big. Be grateful. Give love, and laugh a lot.

Aloka

Recently, a story of an unknown young street dog attracted everyone's attention.
He became famous by joining a group of yellow-robed Buddhist monks on a peace march through the crowded streets of Calcutta. Nobody could persuade him to go back. Even those kind monks tried to secure a place for him, where food and shelter would be provided. But he decided to remain with them. So finally those monks adopted him, and named him “Aloka “, which in Sanskrit means enlightenment. Now, like a little peace ambassador, Aloka is travelling with those monks all over the world and spreading the noble message of peace and harmony, especially where people are being victimised by racial discrimination and hatred. Across newspapers in India, their peace march through the busy roads of Washington and other important cities of America are being reported on. And of course, Aloka’s presence there attracted special attention.

Aloka reminds us that unconditional love is found in nature and in the animal kingdom. In silence, rivers give water, trees give fruits, the sun gives light, and flowers give fragrance. In the Indian epic Mahabharata, we find a unique story. It says that after the final journey of the Pandavas, Yudhishthira, the epitome of ethical correctness, reaches the gates of heaven, accompanied by a loyal dog who stayed with him through his travails. And when told that he was of course highly deserving of heaven, but only if he entered alone, Yudhishthira declines, saying he would rather sacrifice his own place in heaven than abandon his faithful companion. Upon which, the gates opened as this was the final test of his values - one that we passed with mastery, demonstrating his clarity and compassion.

This simple story can teach us and specially children, not to grow up as a self centered individuals.
Psychologists say that by taking care of pets and dogs, from early childhood, children can grow up to be more compassionate human beings with loving empathy, which in turn helps live happy and fulfilling lives. Purpose found in something other than ourselves is the starting point of a meaningful life.

It is perhaps no coincidence that the word dog is an anagram of God. If only we might see one in the other.

The miracle of light and life

Like a morning sunrise, the new year brings new hopes and aspirations to the human mind. And we try to welcome it with lights, decorations, and parties, etc. But what we need most is to develop a sunshine state of mind, which will dispel the darkness of our mind, and will light up our souls with love, peace, and harmony for all. These precious lessons of living in harmony, we may learn from the plant world. The process by which plants nourish themselves and the rest of the world is known as photosynthesis. All plants become active with morning sun rays. They absorb nourishment from the morning sunlight and convert it into organic energy to sustain themselves and then nourish the whole world with life-giving oxygen. This unconditional loving gift from plants to the rest of the world is fascinating and a great lesson to learn. To sustain life on earth, they also provide medicinal herbs, crops, vegetables, fruits, and nuts all through the year. Big trees are ever ready to give shade and shelter to any tired soul without any discrimination. Colourful flowers bloom in different seasons, fill up the air with unique fragrance. The rustling sound of their leaves tell us of the merciful nature of nature. This unique support system in the whole of nature is not only amazing, they present a deeper reality of life to us. As the sun nourishes life on the earth, the clouds burst into rain, rain brings plants that make the world green, while the soil gets fertile with dry leaves and the cycle of life on the earth.

Sun, the glorious light of heaven, also inspired Surya Yogis of ancient India who learnt to draw vital life energy from the morning sun rays through special techniques. The Sanskrit word for sun is Surya, which is also called as Aditya and Savita, which means cosmic intelligence and cosmic consciousness Long back I was fortunate to get an opportunity to learn this special technique of Surya Yoga for breathing in light, from an young globe trotting Surya Yogi - this practice still helps me to stay active in my ripe old age. This New Year, I pray that we all may learn to open up our hearts to embrace the valuable lessons from nature and with cooling breeze of  our love, bring peace and harmony around us. The principle of life supporting life is a universal truth resplendent in all of nature and one that we humans need to realize sooner than later.

Why the new world needs old wisdom

I was happily surprised to read the news in today’s paper that 25th November is declared as an “International Meatless Day “. Whether people observe it or not, that is not important, but surely it is a good start to express our compassion towards helpless animals.

Every year, many such significant and symbolic days are celebrated by us, with much pomp and grandeur. The list is endless. They are Mother’s Day, Teacher’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, etc. But in real life, how much significance they have is a debatable issue. To make any good thought grow in life, we must nourish it with dynamic willpower, perseverance, and concentration. A seed can grow into a fruit-bearing tree, only when it gets the right nourishment, sunlight, and loving care from us. This logic applies in human life also.

Childhood is like a clean sheet of paper, and whatever is written on it at that time gets imprinted for the whole life. Today’s schooling system emphasises rote learning, and not so much on building up a value system, creativity, and imagination. As a result, when they grow up, with many capabilities across areas of learning, they tend to believe that the purpose of life is to make money, and gaining power as an individual. The idea of a compromise on one's self interest for the greater good or the concept of sacrifice to uphold ethical values etc  might be distant whispers to the drum beat of self-interest. The devastating results  are clearly seen in every sphere of life today. Families are breaking down, dishonesty and crime  are often visible in high level white collar jobs, intolerance, violence and the resulting loss  of life  of innocent people is common. 

The time has come when we must try to bring a positive change in our thoughts to save ourselves as a whole.
The active practice of principles written thousands of years ago in the “Yoga Sutras” by saint “Patanjali “ advise us to follow five external and 5 internal ethical principles. The one's expressed externally are; the practice of non violence, truthfulness, non-covetousness, non-possessiveness, and self-control over one's urges.  And five recommended internal disciplines are; maintenance of physical, environmental and mental cleanliness, practice of unconditional contentment, vigorous discipline in our pursuits esp spiritual, self-study to empower a high level of self-awareness and to purposefully connect with the divine as the source of our lives, from where we all emerge and dissolve, like the rising and falling of waves in an ocean. To experience oneness we must practice how to live it.

Can an organic being flourish in an inorganic world?

Recently, one of my dear Chinese friends Choo Lee  Hong,  forwarded me a beautiful quotation from a famous environmentalist David Suzuki. He said, “ The way we see the world, shapes the way we treat it. If a forest is a sacred grove, not a timber, if other species are biological kin, not resources, or if the planet is our mother, not an opportunity, then we will treat each other with greater respect “.

His powerful thought made me think about the changing pattern of the relationship between man and nature a little more deeply. Ancient  Indian literature like the Vedas and Upanishads, contain many verses that express deep reverence towards the five elements. They are earth, water, fire, air, and space. They were described as the manifestation of Divine energy. Even 5000-year-old Indian medical science, Ayurveda says these five elements are the building blocks of both the universe and the human body. Major ancient Indian religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, being influenced by this noble thought, prescribed nonviolence to be followed in life. So Indian food (which influences body and mind ), was mainly based on grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts.  Consumption of meat was restricted, and the whole lifestyle propagated non violence and love for nature.

Things started changing with time. To cope with the various demands of a growing population, Industrial civilisation started in Europe in the 18th century, and gradually influenced the whole world. to a changed lifestyle.
Though it helped the economy and trade to grow fast and created jobs for many, it eroded the connection between human life and nature. To satisfy their unending needs and greed, men started exploiting nature, which caused serious health problems, especially in urban life. When we pollute the air and water, cut trees, and go on digging our Mother Earth to extract more minerals to make a world of metal, concrete, and plastic, unknowingly, we sow the seeds of our own destruction, and no amount of money can save us from the decline of physical and mental health. An organic being cannot flourish in an inorganic world. 

Today the whole world is connected with advanced technology, and smartphones have successfully driven away our empathy and have made us more connected yet more self-centered. It is a common sight in urban life, when someone meets an accident, crowds upload live videos but do not come to help. This degradation can be reversed if we also try to get connected with life and nature  again.
“Eco “ comes from the Greek word” Oikos”, which means home. And we must try to get connected with our true home, Nature. Realising this problem,  Tagore ( first Asian Noble Prize winner for literature) established a school in Santiniketan, where children grew up in nature and learnt to love it. He introduced two annual ceremonies - tree plantation and  ploughing (Vriksha ropan, and Halakarshan), to make the foundational relationship between people and Mother Earth strong at an early age. I was fortunate to grow up there, and  imbibed my love for nature, which is helping me to be happy in my twilight years.

Now when I sit in my small garden (which is like an oasis in the polluted city of Delhi), cool breeze, chirping birds, mixed smell of wet soil and fragrance of flowers, rejuvenate my body and mind , then few lines of a famous poet float in my memory. “Under the green wood tree, who loves to lie with me, … come hither.  Here shall you see no enemy but winter and rough weather “.

Goddess Durga: A timeless manifestation of feminine power

 Every year, after the scorching heat of summer and the monsoon’s downpour, when Autumn comes and envelops the earth in golden sunlight, white clouds start sailing through the blue sky. Indians all over the world are excited to celebrate Durga Puja through devotional practices and varied community activities.

  In ancient Indian mythology, the concept of the Divine Mother Durga is described as the protector of righteousness and the destroyer of evil, and one who brings back harmony and peace to heaven and earth.
“ Durga “was created with the combined spiritual power and light of all Gods to defeat “Mahishasura,” the demon, who was the epitome of all evil. As Durga restored peace and harmony in heaven and earth, all the Gods adorned her with ten hands holding ten symbolic objects. They are the conch shell, which signifies creation through the “Aum “sound. “Chakra “shows the eternal wheel of time.” Bow “points out the ability to focus, and “Arrow“points to righteousness. “Lotus “ stands for spiritual power. “Gada” and Javelin, for crushing ignorance and the ability to penetrate through illusions. “Shield “is for protection from negativity, and her one hand is up in Abaya mudra, bestowing blessings to all. Interestingly, the snake she holds points to the transformation of consciousness from a lower to a higher state - a reference to the practice of 'kundalini or the coiled serpent representing elevated states of consciousness accessible through spinal breath movement.
Every year, Ma Durga’s homecoming to the earth, with her four children (Laxmi, goddess of wealth, Saraswati, goddess of knowledge, Kartik, and Ganesh, who stand for handsomeness, wisdom, and success),  is celebrated all over India, through the celebration of Navratri and Durga Puja.

Durga Puja is celebrated mainly in the eastern part of India - Bengal, Orissa, Assam, with devotion but also as a high point in the year for cultural and community activities, and at the end of five days, it culminates in the immersion of the Durga idol in a flowing river - symbolically and literally a source of life. Durga, as the all-powerful manifestation of feminine power, holds some very relevant messages for the modern world, which has largely represented strength and power in masculine forms. Over a hundred years ago, the great saint of Bengal  Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa said, “ Women are, all of them, the veritable images of Shakti (power)". The earth, our mother, is feminine, as is the source of all creation, per nature's law. A world that understood and respected that was a better one than the one we've created today.

Why consciousness isn't intelligence

Life is a journey from the unknown to the unknown. We only try to hold on to the visible middle part we consider 'alive' tightly and focus on making it as comfortable as we can, in all possible ways. Man’s latest discovery of 'Artificial Intelligence' appears to be a magic wand ready to grant all our wishes and solve our material problems one click at a time.

Artificial intelligence, the brainchild of humans, does come at a high cost and can displace significant parts of a human workforce. It can produce profitable businesses with very few people and with unprecedented speed and efficiency.
These days, when I open the morning newspaper, I find at least one article on “AI” that describes the versatile roles in different fields of life. Magical toys made with AI chatbots are the new companions for children, or it also can play the role of a doctor and can even advise in emergencies. Not only that, in remote village schools, it can transform itself with a traditional Indian sari and play the role of a teacher, ready to answer all queries of students without being tired or angry. Whether it be the field of healthcare, education or agriculture, it has proved to be a great help through remarkable productivity. Also, translations across multiple languages, or writing a poem or an essay, it connects human beings in new and interesting ways. An always-on AI poet doesn't need to waste time staring at a starry sky or monsoon clouds to gain inspiration. AI seems to be capable of uplifting the human spirit at the ready.

It has only one drawback. And that is, it has to be fed with human-produced data continuously. And if the quality of that data is poor, or biased, or violent, or racist, then “AI” does not have its own ethical or moral compass to course correct - it is comprised of the 'stuff' that we create at large.  It seems incredible because it can produce results with unprecedented speed and polish, but it is a train whose tracks are laid down by us and not a separate intelligence that can guide humanity. In fact, should the collective human race start moving towards war, division amongst people and the more negative traits, then an AI-powered collective consciousness will speed up the destructive potential of a situation where the likelihood of conflict and strife will increase dramatically.

God given human intelligence has the ability to change the course, and to rethink perspectives beyond those previously stated, to a problem, which “AI” doesn’t have because it is dependent on our content to drive its intelligence. Pointing out this problem, Albert Einstein rightly said, “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, and a rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honours the servant and has forgotten the gift “

Our creator has fixed invisible safety valves in every human brain, which cannot be replicated nor can be found by dissection, which can be realised only by the seekers of truth. We might refer to facets of this as consciousness,  Inspiration, or Intuition. It works in every human life, and when we want to hear that inner voice, we find it in silence, and it guides us in the right direction. That inner voice inspired Prince Siddharth to leave his kingdom behind to be a Buddha, and Christ to utter his last forgiving words to those who crucified him. These moments of divine consciousness present as a spark waiting to ignite every life cannot be captured in the analysis of words or actions and certainly not in their aggregate. It is in the realm of the superconsciousness that humanity's potential for evolution exists. In every living being, that divine spark is present, but as we get too busy to satisfy our life’s desires, that divine spark remains undiscovered under the debris of desires. Let us not let the means become the end.

The moon and our spiritual life

 The sacred day of Guru Purnima is celebrated every year in India. That day people honour their spiritual masters, seek blessings and express gratitude by offering flowers, fruits and donations to their respected gurus and seek their blessings. The day is also observed for introspection through meditation.

This age old tradition is being followed from Vedic times. It is believed the great sage Veda Vyasa, who compiled four Vedas, and wrote the epic Mahabharata, was born on that day. So the day is also known as Vyasa Purnima. Spiritual Yoga knowledge which started with lord Shiva was carried by Vyasa for the benefit of all. The day is also celebrated by Buddhists because Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon on that day.

“Guru Purnima” is a combination of two Sanskrit words. “Guru “means one who removes darkness and ignorance from students' minds. And “Purnima “means full moon". Every year, Guru Purnima day has special astrological significance,  when the earth has the most cool, positive energy of the moon and can help the human mind to be more receptive to spiritual knowledge.

This year the day was observed on tenth July, when I went to my guru Paramhansa Yogananda ‘s meditation centre and joined in group meditation, which was truly a blissful experience for me. On that special day, I also remembered two enlightened souls of India, Swami Vivekananda and Paramhansa Yogananda, who in their short life span, could inspire the whole western world with the immortal spiritual knowledge of India.

Swami Vivekananda went to America in the year 1893 to give his powerful speech at the World Parliament  of religions in Chicago. His powerful  speech, combined with his rich baritone voice and charismatic personality won the hearts of million of Americans instantly. He was the founder of Ram Krishna Mission, which does selfless services for health care, education, spiritual services and many social activities all over the world.

Yogananda went to the west in 1920. With his  powerful  and inspiring writing and lectures, he flooded the western world and introduced India’s ancient meditation technique, called “Kriya Yoga. “ “Kriya “is a special breathing technique (pranayama ), which awakens the chakras and brain. Through the practice of  kriya , the soul awakens to its divine nature, and feels its unity with divine spirit. He described the soul as a radiating ray of the infinite spirit, and said, “By practising Kriya Yoga , you carry a portable paradise within you.” He established the main S.R.F centre (Self Realisation Fellowship) in L.A. And now all over the world, Kriya meditation centres are established. He was also the first prominent Indian, hosted in the White House by the president in1927. His Autobiography Of A Yogi, is listed as one of the best100  spiritual book in the world, and translated into more than 25  languages and read by millions.

On the blessed Guru Purnima day with all  great gurus we also seek blessings of our parents and teachers, who shower unconditional love and guide us in life. On the sacred day of Guru Purnima, we pray that each soul can be the channel of divine light to bring peace and joy in today’s turmoil world.

The soul of a tree

I was pleased to know from my six year old grand daughter Emma, that her favourite pastime hobby is to swing by holding the hanging branches of a Banyan tree. It also happens to have been my favourite childhood activity too.

The reason the Banyan tree makes the best swings in nature is also why it has a special place in Indian literature and philosophy. The branches have the capacity to gradually touch the ground, go deeper into the soil to connect with the roots, and together they give strength and longevity to the main tree and create an extraordinary canopy of thick leaves and are among the largest trees on the planet. This unique characteristic of a Banyan tree conveys a beautiful metaphor used in Indian philosophy to describe the nature of consciousness - that while each branch is separate it also has the capacity to connect to the source and in fact, there is one consciousness even as it is embodied across a multitude of individuals. Man’s creation of artificial intelligence - which, like a banyan tree is interconnected and always learning and growing, is a shared construct. Is it our consciousness that powers intelligence or intelligence itself that becomes conscious? Or are they facets of something entirely larger. The Banyan tree works as a swing just as well as it works for a metaphor for consciousness of artificial intelligence.

Spiritual masters say, by stilling the mind through meditation, realisation of our  connectivity, and our one divine source  can be manifest in our mind. As the moon and stars get reflected on the calm surface of the water, by stilling the mind, one realises the divine connectivity of all living beings. That only makes us loving and compassionate to each other. Then only barriers between people, religion, and nations will begin to fall.  As the Sufi poet Rumi beautifully wrote “ you are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop “. 

Will vs destiny

Blessed are the thorns for within them flowers bloom. I read an amazing story in today's newspaper about a poor and ailing village girl who had leukemia and she came first in the nationwide board exam with. Her will, focused mind and her love of life found expression in ways that her life might not allow for long. This is the triumph of will.

Such unusual events prove that destiny, fate or circumstance, and whatever their causes might be, can be overcome by a strong will. While the accumulations of past lives might manifest in present life even as one lifetime doesn't hold explanations of any apparent reasons, we label them as destiny or fate. They may be pleasant or unpleasant in nature, but we do not have much control over them.

Sri Ramakrishna compared the limitations of human free to with a cow tied to a stake in a field. It has room to roam free up to the length of the rope it's tied with. We cannot deny fate, but total acceptance also may pull down our self esteem,  efforts and will power  to shape our own life. It is true that hereditary factors, environment, tendencies of past life, all help to shape our lives in different patterns but it is also not a wise choice to surrender our will power at the alter of Fate.

Paramhansa Yogananda, who helped uplift human spirit through his writings, lectures and by establishing S.R.F. (Self realisation Fellowship in U.S in 1920, H.Q in L.A) all over the world, brought rays of hope. He said, "past life tendencies can be cauterised from the brain with the fire of wisdom. And the best anaesthesia against pain is to develop our mental power by being engaged in helpful, creative activities and specially by practicing “Kriya  Yoga meditation" (from The divine Romance). The first  reference to Kriya  Yoga  is  found  in Indian epic Mahabharata, when Krishna taught it to depressed Arjuna  to overcome fear and inspired him  to perform his duty as a warrior battling his own family to establish righteousness. That light of wisdom was carried over by lineage of five masters,  the  last guru Yogananda  opened the light of wisdom fountain for all coming generations through his teachings. I feel blessed to have it , and it has helped me to overcome many hurdles in life. I conclude with a few lines of an unknown poet,” Pain makes you stronger. Fear makes you braver. Heart break makes you wiser. So thank the past for a better future.“

An ancient science that supercedes modern medicine

The literal meaning of of Ayurveda is “Science of life “ or” Science of longevity “ . Dhanvanthri, who was known as God’s physician, was the first practitioner of Ayurveda about 3000 years ago.

Unknowingly the seed of interest to know about  was planted in my young mind long back, when first time I  heard the  story of Laxman’s  miraculous survival from the Indian epic Ramayana. It said, when Laxman was critically injured on the battlefield, Hanuman (the monkey god ) was sent to bring Sanjivani - an herbal  plant, from a far away mountain called Dronagiri in the Himalayan range. And when the great devotee of Rama,  Hanuman, could not identify that  special herbal plant, with his immense strength, he lifted the whole mountain and brought it to the battle field. Then Laxman was given that special herb, and he survived. As a child I was thrilled to hear that story, but as I grew up, that story faded from my memory. My interest in Ayurveda sprouted up again in my middle age, when I started having knee pain from rheumatoid arthritis. I  consulted an authentic  Ayurvedic doctor and within a year of treatment, I was able to improve to the point where I could taper off and finally discontinue immunosuppressive therapies. That experience  inspired me to share my experience with Ayurveda which I have benefitted from immensely.

According to Ayurveda, the five fundamental elements of creation  earth, water, fire, air, and space, also work within the human body and help to keep balance of body and mind. Ayurveda describes three orientations, which are called Vata (related to air and space), Pitta (fire and water element) which affects digestive system and third is Kapha (earth and water element) which affects bones, muscles, and teeth etc. Like the mix of primary colors can make up infinite palette, these three orientations mixed together manifest as the multitude of individuals, who are each to be treated distinctly if they are to be treated holistically as the balance of these three differs from person to person. As Ayurvedic medicines are chosen from plants, herbs, minerals and not synthetic or chemical extractions,  they don't create side effects. Another popular cleaning system of Ayurveda is known as 'Pancha Karma',  which means cleaning and eliminating toxins from the body  through five different actions. Ayurveda considers body as a temple, and which must be nourished with right food, right environment and right life style  with harmonious relations with all. Yoga guru B.K.S Iyengar rightly said, “The body is your temple , keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in it". Ayurveda, as a sister science to Yoga ultimately supports the cause of spiritual enlightenment through manifesting balance in the mind and body. And for that I am grateful.

The Simplicity of Choice

Sometimes the memory of a funny story may bring a serious thought to mind -as it happened to me when I was having my evening walk in our garden. Few lines of a much forgotten poem floated in to my mind, which told the story of the invention of shoes. When people were fending off dust everywhere, someone suggested they drench the earth with water, while others suggested covering it up with cloth or leather. Then a wise old man suggested that before trying to change the landscape, why not cover  your own feet  with leather. Thus shoes were born. 

I realised that  in any situation of life, self-protection is more effective than trying to change the outside world. We find our world is burning today with hatred, injustice, greed and anger, expressed through wars between countries, social ideals of different cultures and also within families. Wars fought with weapons or words  are unable to bring permanent peace. So we must be ready to listen and learn from the wisdom of that mythical inventor of the shoe.

One such effective idea is expressed in the first few sutras (lines) of the ancient text, “Yoga Sutras”, written by Maharishi Patanjali around 400 C.E. In his first chapter, “Yama “refers to the five external aspects of individual must do's. They are as follows, Ahimsa or non violence, Satya meaning truthfulness,  “ Asteya “ prescribes  non-covetousness in any form, let alone the act of stealing. “ Brahmacharya “ asks to develop self restraint, and” Aparigraha “is to stay unaffected by greed or the desire for accumulation.

The second chapter, “Niyama “ refers about five internal aspects of must dos of an individual. “Sauch “means to maintain inner and outer cleanliness. Santosh, is to have contentment. Tapas prescribes self-discipline and right effort,  “Svadhyaya” prescribes study for self improvement and self-awareness and finally comes “ Ishvara Pranidhan, “which means surrendering to God with love and humility.

Patanjali with his deep insight realised that we can change our world by purifying and strengthening our own mind. The world we create within is the world we live within.

Is man becoming the machine or is machine becoming man?

Today many people ask, "is technology a boon or bane to our lives?"

Recently, while driving through a crowded road of Delhi, our driver Rajbir saved one absent minded lady’s life by screwing to a stop a few feet away from her almost toppling me out of my seat. One woman emerged from staring into her smart phone, her attention to some unknown destination. I thanked Rajbir for his quick reaction, and also felt sad for  that lady’s addiction, which could have been the cause of her death and endless complications for my driver and me.

These days it is common to see students in class rooms with smart phones on, disengaged from their teacher, fellow students and the study material. In meetings, social gatherings, or while crossing the road, this level of not being where you are is a threat to consciousness. Apart from impoliteness of such behaviour, they become the victim of many calamities, the least of which is chronic depression and anxiety, which is now well proven. This is a form of living death where you are not in your body or your space but 'elsewhere'. 

No doubt, the internet helps us in many ways as well. It can  instantly supply vast amounts of information, or data, or can connect researchers across the globe to allow them to work collaboratively in real time. It can speed up learning or even fund-raising after natural disasters. It has of course, made people more politically aware even if much of it is disinformation. It also can create new types of jobs -  one can now be famous over night on Instagram, though that fame can be as hollow as being rich in a monopoly game.

 Intelligent machines have taken industrialization to a new level. I read an interesting quote, “one machine can do work of fifty ordinary men, but no machine can do work of an extraordinary man.”That extraordinary power of the human being  is the abilities to think deeply in the human context, learn and grow in life, to have a richer experience of it, not just ben more productive. The purpose of human life is not to produce more things more efficiently, it is to evolve as a conscious being. By expanding the imagination, with unconditional love and compassion  to all life , humans are capable of create a beautiful world - within and without. We must be aware that unmindful usage of technology has the power to crush humanity in its wheels of progress. It can cause anxiety, sleep disorder, lack of concentration, poor academic performance etc. Also society has been sickened by the increase in sex crimes, violence, and cyber bullying that affect children and adults alike. Extended screen time can cause many health hazards. It robs our precious time , energy and disrupts our relations with others. Einstein righty said, “I fear the day, when the technology overlaps with our humanity, and the world will  only have a generation of idiots . “

 So the time has come to think deeply about how to make boundaries. To define technological use not with what technology can do but what we want it to do. Children who grow up with pets, play and take care of them, grow as better human beings,  with love , compassion and understanding in life. A robot dog will most likely not have the same effect. 

Long back , Lord Buddha recommended the 'Middle path' as the golden mean of life. It says, neither by indulgence nor by denial, and only by following the middle path, life can be meaningful and peaceful for all. Today to follow the golden path, we all need to apply wisdom and will to life and automation. 

Technology is a choice, not an imperative.  Our relationship with it will define whether we benefit from it to become greater beings that we are or to become lesser beings than we were.

If laughter is the best medicine then smiles are the best form of healing

Laughter is a magic tool one that dispels darkness from heavy hearts and can brighten up a lonely soul instantly. It is truly an unspoken universal language - one that uplifts all spirits. Joyousness may be expressed in many ways. It may shine through a twinkle in the eyes, or through a silent smile. It may also burst out in roaring laughter like rolling waves of a river. It could also the persistent gurgle of a stream or a booming guffaw from the belly. Whatever form it may take,  it brings forth the essence of a moment well lived.  As Charlie Chaplin said, “A day without laughter is a day wasted.”

A hearty laugh is beneficial for health. It increases the flow of oxygen in our body. Strengthens the heart, lung and muscles, also improves cognitive power and fight against the stress and anxieties of life. 
Today people mostly search for inner happiness through outer sense gratification, which can bring some temporary satisfaction, but can not give lasting happiness or peace of mind. That frustration often leads them to cling some other addictions like drinking, gambling etc. Some health conscious people may join “Laughing Clubs “, where they laugh forcefully every morning, to increase lung power. I happen to live overlooking a park where they congregate every morning. Though I am not very sure about it’s health benefits, but surely that vigorous forced “Hyena laughter “brings lots of disturbance in its neighbourhood. 

We all are in a search for a magic formula that can keep our heart warm and minds cool.
Buddhism says, by transcending emotions and thoughts, one can experience inner peace. That also helps to develop inner strength, which can resist external turbulences  from becoming our mind
Through the ages, many enlightened, souls were born in India. They said, as divine consciousness is present in every soul, our spiritual goal should be to realise that unity in all. Only then one can  feel blessed with true happiness.
 Paramhansa Yogananda said,” view life as a cosmic motion picture, where we all are travellers. “He also said “ No sense produced pleasure is permanent, and time relentlessly works it’s havoc on physical beauty. Every thing in this material world is subject to change…. Fill your mind with the love of God. Then you will be able to love every body and will be able to smile all the time.” (from the book Mans Eternal Quest). So in the dawn of this new year  we  may pray that may our soul smile through our hearts, and our hearts smile through our eyes, which may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts.