shacune

2012-01-30T09:09:00.002+05:30

Though I believe in re-incarnation I believe that for the moment 'Zindagi na milegi dobara' so I decided to experience the Filmfare awards 2012 at Filmcity even though I had laryngitis and could barely talk! As one of my dear ones pointed out I dont need to swoon and scream like a teenager because 'i am mature graceful charming and beyond bollywood madness'(is'nt it sweet of her to say so?)
Anyway I went. I did 'darshan' of Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer, Priyanka Chopra, Abhishek, Usha Uthup, Alka Yagnik, Ravina Tandon, Aruna Irani. Kunal Kohli, Farhan Akhtar, Sonali Bendre...
You will read most news and see the prog on Sony eventually.
I would like to point out very sadly that they really think they are Gods, so they did not feel the necessity to apologize for starting 2 hours late!

I was touched by the fact that Usha Uthup won her first Filmfare Award and Aruna Irani received a Life achievent Award.

I liked the fact that Shahrukh could laugh at himself: He said he was able to sell most Ra One souvenirs, but not many tickets!

All in all I enjoyed the programme...Go again next year? Maybe not! Easier to watch it from the comfort of my home and the 'darshan' did not take me a step closer to enlightenment!

2012-01-28T18:49:00.002+05:30

While my grandson Kiran (15 years old) was visiting Mumbai, he wanted to do community service and so I introduced him to Maya Shahani and her NGO Sage.
Kiran was touched by the work and offered to help with the blog and website. Of course, he was already influenced by yours truly's 'Dadi Nani ki Kahaani.
He also hoped to look into the possibility of having a peace garden in Nashville, Tennesse where he lives.
He spoke to some influential people and he has been invited to a 2nd Annual World Interfaith Harmony Breakfast meeting. Aagey Hari Ichhaa.
(Women's Movement for Peace WMPP) lives on through, our inspiration!...
Proud Nani
Shacune :)

pls click:
http://www.scarrittbennett.org/programs/wisdom.aspx

2012-01-28T18:16:00.002+05:30

Was invited to the opening of an exhibition to encourage less privileged women to become self sufficient by Ms Uzma Naheed (Trustee of Women's Movement for Peace and Prosperity)
Present were Dr Vibhuti Patel
In the photograph with me: Mrs Parvin Daneshwar First Consul, Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran

2012-01-21T14:47:00.002+05:30

Now a days I travel less than I used to, but I never lose an opportunity to have some fun! We spent a full day at Ms Amla Ruia's beautiful house in Alibaug.
She is a gracious host and we blessed her with more!
I always say: " i wish my friends with houses all over the world. All we have to do is to be 'nice' and we shall surely be invited! And they can worry about keeping the house in great working order!
Dont miss the Buddha in the background and dont laugh at my silly hat! it did its job. It shielded me from the sun!

2012-01-18T08:47:00.002+05:30

On the 17th of November 2011 I had attended a programme of 'Suresh Wadkar singing old songs at the Tata Thaeatre. It was a treat. particularly the following song of Mohammed Rafi:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yReE8e--v2c

2012-01-11T14:49:00.005+05:30

In December 2011 Anna Hazare decided to fast for the nation again. He wants India to become corruption free. There may be many views for or against Anna's methods, but I felt I personally needed to support the movement, so I went to the Grounds.
In the photograph, the captions say: I am Anna and 'Will the nation wake up?'
Look closely and you will see Anna walking in (3rd photo)and in the 1st photograph you will see Kejriwal. I must say that he is a lucid and impressive speaker! But then so are all politician aspirants!

Shobha De writes: Never mind that his (Anna) Mumbai show ended not with a bang but a whimper. He did perform a very important role despite all bungling and mismanagement. He gave something precious to the aam aadmi (common man)-A voice. What we do with our newly discovered larynx is upto us from this point on. We dont need Anna to fast. We dont need him to hold our hand either. We just need to make ourselves heard!

Jug Suraiya writes: The problems of democracy cant be tackled by restricting democracy but by enlarging it...
1.2 billion of us are the government...

2012-01-08T12:51:00.002+05:30

I am very very rich in friends.
They gave me a lovely get together accompanied with balloons and cake for my birthday!
Most of the same group joined in in celebrating New Year's eve!
Vimla Patil educated us on appreciation of miniature paintings (knowledge), then I told them a few jokes (laughter), and we danced Bollywood music.
Prayed that we all have a New Year filled with knowledge, laughter and dance!

Wish you all the same!
Love Shakun

2012-01-02T12:50:00.007+05:30

Dev Anand was one of the celebrities who left for his last abode last year. Remembering a happy moment in my life when I met him. I used to find his acting 'awkward' and funny...but I guess that is what made him 'unique'

Another happy moment in my life was meeting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar...I love to be in the aura of luminaries...

I have had the good luck of meeting Sadhguru jaggi Vasudev earlier in a program in Times foundation (Me in a blue saree on the mike)
But Dec 2011 was real special. I got to attend Sadhguru's Inner engineering programme.

I loved the combination. The volunteers were extremely courteous and kept us as comfortable as possible without taking away, the spiritual content. There was discipline and we were not allowed to dose. I am particularly grateful to have learned the Shambhavi Mahamudra. Thankyou Sadhguruji!

2011-12-25T17:34:00.002+05:30

For the Group 21 meeting of December, we met at Roopa Thadani place and we sang carols. Most of us are convent educated and the 'carol singing' brought back fond memories. All enthusiastically joined in.
Note Radha Krishna being part of the celebration.
lighting candles or lighting diyas...what difference? they both dispel darkness no?

2011-12-16T08:31:00.000+05:30

http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/kids_kahaani/Festivals/Merry_christmas.htm

On Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Jesus was born in a stable, in Bethlehem. He grew up in Nazareth. Jesus was baptized by his cousin John. Baptism, is the 'marking' with holy water, of babies. By becoming baptized, it is believed that sins are washed away, and the babies, become members of the Christian community. (Hindus believe that their sins are washed away by bathing in the Ganges River)

Three kings, or the adoring magi came from the east, to pay respect to baby Jesus, and brought for him gifts, from their far off land. The kings had seen a bright star, which foretold, the coming of a divine child! Angels announced Jesus’ birth and shepherds called people to worship him.

You may have heard the carol: Silent night, Holy night…

Maybe it is reminding us that just like the morning comes after the night, so the birth of Jesus will bring to an end, all the fighting in the world.

Jesus stated that unless grown ups become innocent like children, they will not be allowed to enter the kingdom of Heaven.

The prophet Isaiah had foretold that a great light would appear at the birth of the divine child Jesus.

Maybe it meant that people would be cleansed of all bad thoughts and actions and become simple and innocent.

The birth of a child reminds one of a new beginning.

I have read that Christmas is not only a festival that belongs to the Christians and children, but to the child in all the grown-ups.

The message of Christmas is that of hope, cheer, love and Peace!

Shall we spread it, the best way we know how?

With love,

Dadi Ma Nani Ma

2011-12-14T08:41:00.001+05:30

Read about the Tulasi, click:
http://dalsabzi.com/Books/hindu_customs/tulasi.htm

and a lovely prayer to Mother Tulasi:
A prayer to Tulsi Mother:
Yan Mule Sarva Tirthaani
Yanaagre Sarva Devataa
yan Madhye Sarva Veda ashcha
Tulsi taam namaa nyaham

Which means:
At your base (feet) lie all the Pilgrimage places
At your top (crown) reside all the Divine Beings
At your centre reside (the knowledge of ) the Vedas
My obeisance to thee

2011-12-11T16:55:00.002+05:30

on November 18th was invited for a very interesting session on Graphotherapy. What is that? in simple words 'Writing analysis' conducted by Ms Meherunisa Sutarwala.
Meherunisa believes that if one makes a conscious change in ones handwriting, one can bring positive subconscious changes within oneself. every stroke, curve and dot in ones writing correlates to a personality trait within, which can be modified for ones transformation.
some excerpts:
A line instead of a dot on i means you have a temper.
Avoid dots after you sign a name...you would not want to put a full stop after your name...
Ascending signature is good...optimistic...it is good to rise, is it not?
avoid loops, no need to make things elaborate.

I got so interested in the subject that i looked up the internet...
So some more pointers:
Difference between writing and signature indicates a difference between private and public self.

A large size hand writing indicates a desire to be noticed.

Average spacing indicates 'self confidence' comfortable, at ease...

We write with our subconscious mind, but if we strive to change our hand writing, for the better with our conscious mind then maybe we can modify a personality trait for the better...So believes Meherunisa...

2011-12-06T11:51:00.000+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 8
To continue with Geeta, little by little:
In chapter 6 verse 11 Lord Krishna states: ' Sit on a spot, neither very high nor very low, free from dirt and other impurities with a kusa grass below, deerskin in the middle and cloth uppermost.
In the verse 13, Lord Krishna continues: Hold the trunk, head and neck straight and steady remaining firm and fix the gaze on the tip of your nose, without looking in other directions.
In verse 15 Lord Krishna says: ‘Thus constantly applying his mind to Me, the yogi of disciplined mind attains the everlasting peace consisting of supreme bliss which abides in Me”

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-12-01T11:12:00.004+05:30

If you scroll down you will see pictures taken on my trip to Jagannath Puri. The first picture is taken at Ashok's edicts. It is a sad and happy place. Sad because a great carnage took place at the war of Kalinga. happy because King Ashok had a change of heart! The rest of his life was spent spreading Buddhism and the message of peace!
You will see a picture with me outside cottages. Cottages were lovely, and so was the view of the Ocean. When we got to the cottages it was dark and late in the night. To our horror, the bridge was broke. Though the hotel bell boys promised to take our luggage we had to walk over the bridge, a broken road with a deep dip into the ocean!
We had to make a decision. Do we go ahead or do we turn back and look for another hotel? We decided to go ahead and the rest, was just a lovely peaceful experience.
I thought to myself: Is'nt this what life is? You take a decision, move ahead through the fog and hope for the best...and many times life surprises us with abundance of joy!

2011-11-26T13:28:00.013+05:30

The Lord's Leela (play) is strange...Was supposed to have gone to Dubai, for a short holiday to spend some time with my eldest daughter. Realized that my passport was expiring, so I decided to take the opportunity to visit Jagannath Puri instead.

There are 4 dhaams that every devout Hindu is expected to visit. They are: Badrinaath in the North of India, Rameshwaram in the South of India (You will find photos in my facebook and in my blog) Dwarika in the West and jagannath Puri in the East.
Called up Sham who is enthusiastic,about Spiritual travel, Asked him if he would take me to Puri and in the next breath he said: "Yes Aunty, I will do all the arrangements, you just print out your ticket"
God bless him. His lovely daughter joined us for the trip.

To come back to the story of Dhaams. I had visited the other 3 Dhaams so I was keen on visiting Puri. I am told that in the olden days, people would set out to visit the 4 dhaams after they had completed their responsibilities. They would say: "Good bye to their family members with the fear that they may never return! Travel in those day was not a flying matter!

On the way to Puri, visited the Udaigiri Caves. Actually a palace with caves for visiting monks, and also a place for song and dance! Talk about living a full life!

In Bhubhaneshwar visited the Lingraj Temple.
Would not Shivji prefer a clean and quiet spot where people pray, rather than people constantly breaking coconuts and pouring cold water and milk over Him making it pretty slippery for the very same devotees? But then that is between Shivji and His Bhaktas. Who am I to give an opinion?

Saw the place where the War of Kalinga was fought. After seeing the carnage, King Ashok had a change of heart and spent the rest of his life propagating peace and Buddhism.
Saw the edicts of Ashok. Quite a delightful place actually!

I have no words to describe the Sun Temple in KOnark. One can 'see' the exact time of day through the shadow the finger throws when placed in the centre of the wheel! I was in awe at the 'bright brain'of Ancient Indians!

In one of the photographs you will see the idols of the 9 planets. We did a short puja there.

We spent a night at the Lotus cottages near Konark. The cottages were very pretty and small, but clean. The Ocean that you see in the photograph has history. The river and Ocean have a sangam (meet).
The Tsunami hit there, and the bridge and wall collapsed. You can still see the stones of the broken road in the sea!

We had no time to change into our traditional Indian clothes when we reached Puri. So the Guards thought we are not Hindus and as such were denied entry. After showing them our identity cards, they allowed us in. They invited us to have a prasaad luncheon and Visit Jagannathji, Subhadra, and Balram (The 3 Divine siblings)not one Darshan but two times.
Chuckled at the ways of the Lord. How can Krishna let us return home without some teasing on His part!
I feel blessed.

2011-11-19T07:00:00.001+05:30

Soul Searching

Gopika Vaidya Kapoor | April 09, 2003 10:34 IST

For those in search of who they really are, the answer may be online

I am the woman
who writes in red ink
because she dreams of being
bolder.
I am the one
who wants to find a way
to fly
with her feet still on the
ground.

To find her soul -- her inner spirit -- has become the aim of the modern woman. Under constant stress to succeed as a professional, wife, mother or daughter, she often finds herself in a puppet-like position, pulled in many directions and unable to reach a single one. So, in this high-tech age, where does she turn for comfort, solace and peace? The Internet!

Read more.Was googling my name and came up with this site. Thought I would share it with you.
Click:
http://specials.rediff.com/netguide/2003/apr/09soul.htm

2011-11-15T13:36:00.002+05:30

I was invited on

Thursday 10th November, 2011 at
KITAB KHANA to join young poet, writer, activist Tenzin Tsundue as he read from the seventh edition of his book of poetry KORA. Tenzin also shared his thoughts, hopes & concerns around his homeland, Tibet.
I particularly empathize with Tenzin for 2 reasons:
1) He is a refugee...We Sindhis also lost our land and possessions during the partition of India...
2) I really really appreciate the peaceful method that Tibetans adopt under the leadership of the Dalai Lama and their faith in the Almighty...

Tenzin Tsundue is a restless young Tibetan who, after graduating from Madras, South India, braved snowstorms and treacherous mountains, broke all rules and restrictions, crossed the Himalayas on foot and went into forbidden Tibet! The purpose? To see the situation of his occupied country and lend a hand to the freedom struggle. Arrested by China’s border police, and locked up in prison in Lhasa for three months, and was later 'pushed back' to India.

Born to a Tibetan refugee family who laboured on India's border roads around Manali, North India, during the chaotic era of Tibetan refugee resettlement in the early seventies, Tenzin Tsundue is a writer-activist, a rare blend in the Tibetan community in exile. He published his first book of poems, Crossing the Border, in 1999 with money begged and borrowed from his classmates while doing his Masters degree in Literature from Bombay University. His literary skills won him the first-ever 'Outlook-Picador Award for Non-Fiction' in 2001. His second book, Kora, is already in its sixth edition and his third title, Semshook, is in its third edition.
His writings are published online at www.friendsoftibet.org/tenzin and www.tibetwrites.org

2011-11-11T12:19:00.004+05:30

Went through a 'down' recently which had an 'up' embedded.
How is that? Well my husband had to go to hospital (down) to get cured (up)
To feel an 'up' during my 'down' period, went to the Jamnalal Awards function (while my daughter was in the hospital 'caring' for her father. (Thank God for loving kids!
Shri Morari Bapu was the chief guest. The awards were 'heavy' but the envelope with the cheque was 'light' Sri Morari Bapu said: There is a saying in Gujarati that 'seva se meva milta hai, but the Bajaj family is one of the few 'jo meva se seva deta hai'
(You get fruits when you 'serve' but with fruits (money) you can serve (society)and that is what the Bajaj family does!

2011-11-09T10:52:00.001+05:30

The 'Japji' is the first message that sprung out like nectar from Guru Nanak's lips as he emerged from the river after 3 days. Guru Nanak remained immersed in the River for 3 days. It is said that it takes 3 days for the ego to totally disappear. It is then that one experiences the Ultimate. That is the reason why maybe the 'Marka' and/or 'baithak' and/or 'Chautha' is done on or after 3 days after a person's death.

http://www.dalsabzi.com/message/gurunanak1.htm

2011-11-01T08:17:00.002+05:30

I was brought up in Spain. Hence I have always been demonstrative in my affection. It comes easy to me to hug a friend. I curbed the instinct as I soon relized that in a place like India there is a different set of rules. Osho says that intimacy comes from the Latin word
Intimum which means your innermost core. He writes: unless you have something there, you can't be intimate with anybody...because they will see the hole, the wound, the pus oozing out of it. Friendship is only a word now; it has disappeared.and the reason? There is nothing to share. Who wants to show inner poverty? One wants to pretend, : I am rich, I have arrived, I know what I am doing, I know where I am going".

2011-10-30T10:12:00.003+05:30

On Saturday the 8th of October was invited to Sakshi gallery, Tanna House for a talk on Psycho-Astrology by Dr Farrukh Buchia.
He was a good speaker. He used a great blend of 6 different psycho-therapies along with astrology and meta-physics to heal his patients. He has also set up a counselling and suicide prevention centre.

2011-10-27T10:48:00.001+05:30

2011-10-27T07:34:00.002+05:30

'I got a mail from a reader, who was very worried because the flame of the diya had 'gone off while there was enough oil in it.
My reply:

I am not a very superstitious person.
I honestly do not believe that the Almighty is waiting for us to punish us for something that is not our fault.
I also do not subscribe to the belief that such occurrences are forecasters of doom.
Please read my book: Hindu Customs and beliefs. Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/hindu_customs/introduction.htm

I would suggest that you recite the mantra:
Om sarva managala...
click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/mantras/ma.htm

Good luck and quit feeling negative...your negativity may invite a negativity is more of a likelihood than the deepak 'bujh gaya'
Warm Regards
Shakun

2011-10-20T08:13:00.002+05:30

It was an interesting afternoon on Wed, 12th October 2011 when Mr Narayan Varma invited me to Indian Merchant's Chamber to celebrate the 6th Anniversary of RTI (Right to Information) Mr. J.F.Ribeiro presided and Justice C.S.Dharmadhikari (Retd)(Former Judge:Bombay High Court) delivered the keynote address

2011-10-19T08:51:00.002+05:30

RELATIONSHIPS

Shakun Narain Kimatrai has won the 2nd prize for the ‘WRITE AN ARTICLE’ contest held at the recent lectures at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mumbai for writing this piece.

Relationships?
In today's world?
Where the cookie crumbles even before one has had time to savor it?

Ms Jaya Row who for the last 40 years has devoted herself full time to the interpretation of Vedanta for the modern generation, gave us some interesting tips to hold on to our relationships during these turbulent times at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, to a packed audience, on the 9th of July 2011
In the case of marriage:
It is true that Marriages are created in Heaven. It is also true that sometimes partners are difficult and the reason is karmic. They are together to learn some of the most difficult lessons that we are meant to learn.
'Is the institution of Marriage under threat?' What can be done?
Is Marriage: Rock or Wreck?
What are the reasons that are contributing to the instability of marriage in this millennium?
Marriage is an old institution which is losing its basic values.
As Jaya Row puts it: We want to be loved, appreciated…but what are we doing to deserve it.
She explained ‘selfish love’ is attachment.
We are not able to be together and also find ourselves miserable when we are not.
Most people confuse attachment with love.
We need to understand what attachment is, and how to rid ourselves of this prison that is responsible for most of our ills.
One solution?
Dilute that attachment. Let your love expand beyond your internal ring (my husband my children) to ‘outer rings’ of my community…and then to my nation and then to humanity…
I have heard:
The solutions to most ‘relationship problems are:

Effective Communication:
Listen more talk less
Never say: 'it is your fault’
Remember no one is perfect but you must bring out the best in one another.
Everyone has different expectations, values, weaknesses and strengths.
Study others’ and be aware of yours.
Learn to compliment and compromise with one another.

I was reading: True compromise does not mean giving in or giving up. It means a settlement made by mutual consent, which involves concessions on both sides.
It is good management rather than good luck that makes a relationship work.
You must not compete, compare, and control. And you must never never bring past hurt, past mistrusts into the relationship.
I have heard that for a marriage to succeed the husband must be a little deaf and the wife a little blind!
In the deep spiritual sense, only you are responsible for your pain and happiness.
Before you ‘blame the other’ look deep within yourself and develop self esteem.
Manipulation, control, jealousy are a definite no no.
What is yes yes?
Communication. Communication need not be something ‘heavy’ It can be a phone call, a touch, a hug…
Cultivate trust, and a sense of humor.
Get away for a meal, holiday. Do it!
Do not communicate when angry.
Look at the plus points in your relationships.
You must allow each other to grow
Speak your mind clearly and gently
Celebrate the difference and complement one another.
In the case of a marriage:
A great marriage is not when the perfect couple comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy the differences'

http://vedantavision.org/library/articles-by-guests/relationships.html

2011-10-18T06:42:00.002+05:30

Was invited On the occasion of the Italian Language Week in the world,sponsored by the Indian council for cultural relationships to 'Musica fiorita (A Baroque music ensemble Switzerland, on the 5th Oct 2011 at the NCPA TATA theatre.
What a delightful performance. The instruments and clothes were from Shakespearean times. But the real treat was to have Bharat Natyam dancers perform along with the european dancers on 17th Century Music instruments.

2011-10-17T13:27:00.002+05:30

Today there is a great article on Politicians by Osho in the 'Speaking Tree" Times of India.
There was a politician who wanted his epitaph to read 'Honest politician'
His lawyer asked: How will people know who lies in this grave?
The old man said that people would read 'Honest politician' and exclaim: "Strange"
And "Strange" was his name!
Reminds me of a story: I dabble a little tarot and palmistry.
Once I saw the hand of a young aspiring politician.
I told him that he would never become one.
Why?
Because he had a very 'honest' line...
Years later I learned that he never remained in politics even though he belonged to a family of one.

2011-10-14T13:33:00.005+05:30

Was invited for the 'Crystals and US' book release event by Yogi Impressions.
The book is written by Dr Gulrukh Bala.
The book explains the healing, loving relationship we have with these treasures of the earth. It reveals how some of these rock crystals and gemstones can help improve the quality of our lives.
The event was held at ‘Kitab Khana’ Bookstore, Somaiya Bhavan,
Next to Davar’s College, Opp. Flora Fountain, on Saturday, 8th October, 2011

What a delightful place, Kitab Khana is!

About Crystals? I have had a long relationship with crystals. One in particular stands out. I had gone to Pune,Osho aashram. There they were selling crystals. I was informed that I should pick up one, that I feel connected with.
I connected with an egg shaped crystal that to me looked 'damaged'
I have heard that it is not very good to pick up a crystal which is not 'whole'.
I was confused and asked my attendant to reduce the price of this one. She refused and said 'pick one of your choice'. I saw a perfect piece for the same price...but I seemed to have no connection with the perfect piece.
Finally I picked the one that seemed to have a crack at the centre...
Years later, a crystal enthusiast entered my temple room and said to me that my crystal was not damaged...that in fact it had fused during two very long period of time! And that it was very powerful! I did get to experience its power during one of my illness which left me weakened...and as I recuperated I realized the crystal had darkened! Could it have absorbed my ill health?

2011-10-02T11:27:00.003+05:30

Celebrating Aarti Hundalani's birthday, Indira Bhojwani becoming nani one more time, Geeta Hundalani's anniversary...
Yeh dosti hum nahin chhodengey, todengey dam magar tera saath na chhodengey

2011-10-02T11:22:00.001+05:30

"Death is not a problem to be solved but a fact to be accepted"

- Swami Tapovan Maharaj, in the play Death
Saw the play on 17th September 2011.
Interestingly and 'as simply as possible performed'

2011-09-27T13:52:00.001+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 8

I just read a delightful small booklet called: Sri Krishna as Bhagvad Geeta by Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati from Central Chinmaya Mission.
Let me share some excerpts with you:
The Scriptures are like the body of God. He is revealed by delving into their depths.
Imagine for a moment the wonderful form of Lord Krishna and then witness the entire Bhagvad Geeta unfold chapter by chapter as the very body of Lord Krishna.

Chapter 1: The Lord speaks only one sentence in the first Chapter: “Look dear Partha at the assembled Kauravas” With that He announces His presence in our lives.
Chapter 1 is like the dust on the Lord’s feet. It is the very foundation of the Bhagvad Geeta.

Chapter 2: This chapter is a direct introduction to the Aatman and the Lord describes the state of an Enlightened person. We do not have to become Brahman, we are Brahman. We must drop what we are not in order to become what we are.
Chapter 2 is like the Lord’s pada, His feet on which He stands. It represents our goal.

Chapter 3: The 3rd Chapter deals with ‘Karma Yoga’ Actions should be performed with an attitude of dedication, detachment, service and surrender. Karna Yoga is not some special action. It is every action done specially.
Chapter 3 is the ankles of the Lord. Movement of the feet begins with ankles. Wearing anklets, He dances and jumps and beautifully bends His ankles. They symbolize movement. It is the beginning of our sadhana. We commence walking the path towards our Goal.

To be continued

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-09-26T09:41:00.003+05:30

Navratras start on the 28th of September. Read about it, click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/navratra.htm
It is considered auspicious to read the Ramayana during Navratras. I have written a short version which would be very easy to complete during these days. Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/symbolisms_ramayana/intro.htm

2011-09-26T08:46:00.001+05:30

2011-09-26T08:46:00.000+05:30

2011-09-25T13:41:00.002+05:30

I believe that everyone has got a special gift from God. If one uses it correctly you are in your 'sweet spot' ie You are playing the part in Life which you were meant to play. How does one know if one is in ones 'sweet spot'?
Vinita Dawra Nangia writes: "If you get a general feeling of well being and happiness most of the time when you think of your day, you have found your purpose and are leading a worth while life..."

2011-09-24T20:26:00.004+05:30

I have lived in Mumbai for a great part of my life and I pride myself on always taking an interest in its History.
But strangely I have never done the darshan of Lalbaug cha Raja. I had always felt that its fame was due to the fact that it is 'a very big Ganesh'
This time I was asked if I would accompany a friend to Lalbaug cha Raja. I read that invitation as a bulaava (call) So I did go. I am told that whatever you ask the Raja, He grants. Read on:

Lalbaug cha Raja history
The Mandal, formerly known as 'Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Lalbaug' was founded in the year 1928,because of a vow (Navas) for construction of the present Lalbaug Market at its existing place. The market place at Peru Chawl was shut down in 1932. Hence, the fishermen and vendors who used to sit in the open place vowed to Ganesha for permanent place for their market. With the consistent efforts and support of the then local Councillor-Late Shri. Kuwarji Jethabhai Shah, Dr. V. B. Korgaonkar, Shri. Nakhawa Kokam Mama, Bhausaheb Shinde, Dr. U. A. Rao and the local residents, the landlord Rajabai Tayyabali agreed to give a plot for construction of a market. As fulfillment of their wish, the fisherman and the traders established the Ganesh Idol on 12 September 1934. The idol was dressed in the customary fashion of fisherman. Since that day onwards, this Lord Ganesh has become popular as it fulfills the wishes of devotees. The Mandal was formed in the era when the freedom struggle was at its peak.
Due to the communal riots in 1946, orders were issued to change the route of this Ganesh Immersion Procession. But, the then office-bearers of the Mandal refused to change the route and, after 21 days, the procession was taken by the same route under the supervision of then Volunteers Pandurang alias Babu Sayle, M. S. Pawar and Dattaram Joshi. After independence, the agenda of the Mandal was modified and accordingly the Mandal decided to contribute in uplift of the Country. The Mandal donated its balance amount to the Kasturba Fund, the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Fund in 1947 and to Bihar Flood Relief Fund in 1959. The social issues were also highlighted in the plots during Ganesh Festival.

After 1958, the number of devotees of Lalbaugcha Raja increased substantially. During this get together, eminent personalities of different fields, office bearers of various mandals and well-wishers are invited...

Visarjan Tarafa: Traditionally the Ganesh idols are immersed in water during its Visarjan. Hence in order to immerse the idol of Lalbaugcha Raja, Mandal always takes proper precautions so that the visarjan takes place in a manner the Raja deserves. Accordingly, after consulting some experts and experienced persons, Mandal has purchased a Tarafa (Iron Raft), which makes it possible to dissolve the idol of Lalbaugcha Raja in deep sea water, conveniently. The Tarafa is prepared by M/s. A.V. Engineering.In the year 2010-11 the tarafas were imported from australia
[edit]Present day

In the year 2009, the Mandal expected around 10 million people to visit This 'Great Raja'.

2011-09-18T10:52:00.003+05:30

The Group 21 of which I am a happy member has been meeting for the last 35 years or more, every 2nd thursday of the month. This time Ms Indu G.Vee and I co-hosted the session. We invited Dr Mona Patel to enlighten us on the current political scenario.

Dr.Mona Patel Shah is an eye surgeon.
Being involved with the poor and underprivileged section of society in the municipal hospital she has been inspired to reach out to help and support them by engaging in both political as well as apolitical agitations.
She is presently engaged with the India against corruption movement headed by Anna Hazare which involves all indians alike.
She has great dreams for our country which she believes can be realized only by the willing participation of all Indians, their contribution in strengthening our democracy.
Her belief is ...development of a country lies in the ability of it's citizens. All glory comes from daring to begin. The future is for those who have the soul of a hero!

Her so very simple request: One must vote. It is very very important and we owe it to our country. If possible meet on Sunday mornings at 8.30am at Priya Darshini Park for Dward meetings

Mona believes:
Each day is a new beginning.....the pendulum has been swinging from one extreme of hope to the other extreme of disappointment with regards this crusade against corruption between the govt and the govts people.....ironical isn't it? Who are we opposing?
In the midst of this confusion, the only thing that we can do is to keep our faith and resolve firm in seeking a India, free of corruption.
Towards this we will need to show our strength and support in large numbers.

It is our good fortune to have a leader like Anna from whom we can learn how deshbhakti can be done.
All of us are engaged in some form or the other of deshbhakti in a small or a big way.
The time has come now for us to UNITE !! And to magnify the scope of work that we can do together.
A platform where citizens can take charge is available to us in feb 2012 in the form of BMC elections.
I think we should work very hard towards this so that at least our local issues problems can see some solutions.
Our 1st step is to inform people of the coming elections....request them not to take a holiday on that day....be a good citizen and VOTE
We must also stand a citizens candidate like juju has done successfully like Adolf Dsouza
Our rough strategy could be to have 20-30 members forming a core group from different buildings.
Each member must affiliate another 4 members from neighboring buildings.
In this way we will have a corpus of 80-120 volunteers (20 -30 groups)
Each volunteer must rope in 100 voters from in and around his building
This will get us a mass of 8000-12000 voters
In ward 214 , Pramod Mandrekars won with 7000 votes .this ward is from Kamla Nehru park to Raj Bhavan and has around 40000 registered voters
In ward 213, yogita juikar won with 3113 votes. This ward has around 23000 registered voters and extends from PDP to gamdevi.
In my opinion this is doable if we come together and seriously want the change!
The BIG question is DO WE????
Please respond with a yes or no this message to set the ball rolling for indias richest , most educated and capable in every way ,constituencies local body election
We Will get the government we deserve
let us get together and make ourselves more DESERVING!!
The future lies in our hands.

Help line for citizens...100 and 103
Bmc anti encroachmentb...1916

With high expectations
Mona
drmona_shah@hotmail.com

2011-09-14T13:45:00.006+05:30

Monday Group (Singing Sakhees and Bhagvad Geeta) went for a picnic to Indira Thacker's farm in Karjat. It was a funfilled day with a gracious host and great friends. We hired a bus for 15 people and set out in the morning.We celebrated Radhashtami (The birthday of Radha Rani) We spoke about her love and divine life, sang bhajans, cracked jokes, danced and added a few kilos...Not only with food but with joy...We are rich when we have good friends. We save on Doctor's fees.

2011-08-29T09:20:00.001+05:30

Ganeshotsav starts on the 1st of September 2011
Ganpatiji sits with one foot on the ground and the other folded up, above the ground. This posture means that while we must operate in the world one must be constantly aligned to our spiritual nature…Read more, click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/ganesh_chaturti.htm

2011-08-27T17:40:00.004+05:30

Yesterday 26th of August I went to Priya Darshini Park to support Anna Hazare.
In the years past people have chanted India is Indira, You are my Sonia...but today...oops yesterday at the garden we sang:

Anna ek Aandhee hai
Anna doosra Gandhi hai

Ek do teen chaar
Band karo yeh atyaachaar

Some more points to think of:
The Constitution starts with the words:
We, the people...

And today the 27th of August 2011 at 5.20 pm we proved to be a real democracy... the will of the people ruled...Where there is a will, there is a bill...This is the power of the UN-ELECTED!Most of them, members of the middle class!

I am proud to be an Indian today:
The Indian protests were peaceful and purposeful.

So chant with me:
Ek do teen chaar
Anna is a Superstar!

Oh yes! Another thing that we must remember is that you are Anna, I am Anna...which means that we must continue to be united, peaceful and a true democracy while Anna lives and beyond! (The Nehru cap says: 'I am Anna'

2011-08-25T17:56:00.005+05:30

Anna Hazare has been fasting for over a week... for a corruption free India.
It cannot be denied that:
India has suffered enough due to corruption whatever the arguments for or against Anna team's method, of achieving the dream have been.

The support for a corruption free India (in terms of peaceful massive crowds) is unprecedented.
I got a call that buildings in the lane I live in, should participate thus:
Stand outside the building with a candle and pray for the well being of India.
So I did just that!

In the photographs you will see the much respected Mr Narayan Varma of 'Right to Information' fame and the Chairman of our building.
I requested the security, help and residents of the building to light a candle and pray for the well being of our Motherland!
Vande Mataram!

2011-08-20T22:33:00.001+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 7
As promised in the last 3 lessons, now will tell u what the Guru of Gurus has to say about meditation.
In chapter 6 verse 11 Lord Krishna states: ' Sit on a spot, neither very high nor very low, free from dirt and other impurities with a kusa grass below, deerskin in the middle and cloth uppermost.

My note
Darbha grass also called Kusha or Munja
Whenever a priest used darbha grass on rituals, festivals, tied them as a ring I always wondered at the significance. Was happy to read an article by Ranjeni A Singh who explained its significance.
It is a dull yellow coloured grass.
A doctor covering his hand with the darbha grass had his palm x-rayed. To his surprise he found that the grass absorbed about 60% of the radiation. Can one conclude that it can absorb negative energies from the atmosphere also?
Darbha grass is identified with Lord Vishnu and it is believed to possess the power to purify anything.
It is believed to have been produced during the cosmic churning of the ocean of milk.
Sakyamuni Buddha is believed to have sat on a mat made of darbha grass when he got enlightened under the Boddhi Tree.
The name of Kushinagara, where the Buddha was cremated, is believed to be derived from Darbha's other name Kusha.

The deerskin
Deerskin symbolizes spiritual and intellectual pre-eminence.
A deer skin is the only animal skin considered appropriate for the yogi’s meditation seat (asana) because the vibration of the deerskin is neutral and therefore conducive to peace and tranquility. However, the deer must have died a natural death. To use the skin of a deer killed for its skin is to violate the precept of ahimsa.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-08-20T07:57:00.000+05:30

We celebrate Janmashtami on the 22nd of August.
Do get better acquainted with Krishna on His birthday.
Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/janmashtami.htm

2011-08-19T11:10:00.010+05:30

It is a momentous time. The way India has come together peacefully reminds one of Gandhiji's fight for Independence.I just had to be a part of it. So I did make my way to Azad Maidan. The gentleman with me is Mahendra Chauhan a soft ware engineer.
The photographs were taken while in the background people sang: Yeh desh hai veer jawaanon ka, albelon ka mastaanon ka, is desh ka yaaron kya hehna? yeh desh hai duniya ka gehna!
When I mentioned to my friends abroad about my presence at Azad Maidan, I was surprised to learn that they did not have much of an idea about what is going on in India! How so!? Nothing like this has happened since Independence of India in 1947.
Do google Anna Hazare and his campaign for the Lok Pal Bill (an anti corruption bill)
The fact that so many thousands of people keep assembling shows how very tired mentally, physically and financially the Indian janta is, with curruption.
The biggest supporter for Anna Hazare is Myanmar's Nobel Peace Laureate Aung Suu Kyi.
She however stressed that differences between the government and the civil society over the Lokpal bill, have to be resolved through dialogue.
Want to hear more? A 60 year old Pakistani businessman Jehangir Akhtar is set to go on a hunger strike in Islamabad from September 12 for an anti graft bill similar to what India is planning.

My friend Mr Mahajan from Delhi replies:
Mr Mahajan in Delhi (1st photograph above)

Great!.

Yesterday I went to Tihar Jail . It is not very far from my residence. But what I saw was amazing.

Such a deciplined crowed I have hardly ever seen. Over 10,000 youngsters raising slogans 'Bharat Mata ki Jai, Vande Matram, Anna tum aagey Baroh, hum tumahrey saath hain' etc. There were people who were distributing water bottles, bread pakoras, biscuits and many other eatables to the crowed, very coolly and with real shradhha.

The youngsters apart from showering support to Anna were seen clearing road for smooth traffic and also CLEANING THE PLACE OF EMPTY BOTTLES AND OTHER LITTER.

Those who say that these people are there for fun only, must come and see for themselves what the scene is like.

Long live this movement. Long live Anna Hazare.

2011-08-15T11:08:00.002+05:30

Dear Friends,
Ar'nt you lucky to be or born as an Indian?
There are so many things that need to be put right but maybe this anthem will inspire us to do so.
A must watch!
Click:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JltFQS9kFXA
Love,
Shakun

2011-08-13T17:39:00.005+05:30

Proud moment for Nani when grand-children tower over her. and my grandson Kiran learning the tabla!

2011-08-11T10:07:00.002+05:30

Was invited to “Unity in Diversity Lecture Series” under the auspices of
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations.
I attended and came back enlightened and inspired.
Am sure it will inspire you too.
Love Shakun

The invitation:
We are pleased to invite you to participate in the launching of the “Unity in Diversity” Lecture Series, under the auspices of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and in affiliation with Global Dialogue Foundation.

As agreed with the UNAOC, the overarching theme of the lecture series will focus on “Doing Business in a Multicultural Environment”

Paul Dunn, Chairperson and Masami Sato, Founder of Buy1Give1 will jointly deliver this inaugural lecture. Paul, an Australian and Masami, a Japanese will showcase how the fusion of cultures has helped in the success of their Foundation based in Singapore which has transformed the lives of thousands of people across the globe.

As an inclusive platform, the lecture series will bring together a wide cross-section of partners, all committed to rethink the way in which we deal with tensions across cultures and to agree on concrete and practical initiatives to promote dialogue, trust, understanding and cooperation for the common good.

Participants will include political and corporate leaders, civil society activists, youth, religion and faith communities, research centers, foundations and media.

It is expected that these initiatives will allow participants to develop new thinking, brainstorm and create innovative, collaborative ventures and establish a community of supporters for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations in the region and humankind in general.

For further information, please visit www.unaoc.org and www.globaldialoguefoundation.org

We hope you will be able to join us in this unique event to bring people of diverse cultures together fostering dialogue, understanding and cooperation.

Maya Shahani, Akhil Shahani

Vice Chairperson, Managing Director,

Global Dialogue Foundation Centre for Management

2011-08-10T13:36:00.000+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 6

My note:
Hinduism teaches that as a step towards the ultimate experience of Enlightenment Shravan (the perfect art of listening) is very important. The next step is Manan (to contemplate upon, what one has listened to, and then to apply (What one has heard and contemplated upon) to ones life.
However,
We have never truly listened.
We have many tricks and devices not to listen.
We hear only that which we want to, and not what is being said.
We fall asleep when something important is being said.
Sleep protects one against all one does not want to know.
If it is not sleep we get lost in, then it is an internal dialogue of our own.
All teachings aim at breaking the constant dialogue and create an internal space within. (Various methods were explained in the previous note in order to create a silent internal space, in the previous note) Once the silent internal space is arrived at, then, one becomes acquainted with true meditation.
What to do next?
Lord Krishna will explain it in the next lesson.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-08-05T18:46:00.007+05:30

Have known Nandita Bhavnani and her parents for many years and have been particularly impressed by Nandita's passion to keep the Sindhi culture and language alive. So you can imagine how excited I was when I received the following invitation:

I am delighted to invite you to the launch of my book "I Will & I Can: The Story of Jai Hind College".
The book will be released by HE the Governor of Maharashtra on Wed 27th July at 5.30 in the college auditorium.
Hope to see you there!
Nandita Bhavnani

Ofcourse I attended.
Nandita looked radiant!
Having been an ex-student of Jai Hind College I thoroughly enjoyed the book. In fact it brought tears to my eyes. Was particularly fascinated at the grit and determination of the pioneers, amongst them Principal T.M. Advani(despite having next to nothing) to rebuild the college. I say rebuild, because besides leaving behind our (Sindi's) possessions we also had to bid adieu to D.J. Sindh College.
When I was a student of Jai Hind College,I always thought that the motto should be 'I can and I will' rather than 'I will and I can'
Was thrilled to know the reason.
The motto 'I can and I will' had been the motto of Model High School in Karachi...Principal Advani gave it a deep thought and changed it to 'I will and I can'...Excuse me I need to stop typing...I need to wipe my eyes and puff my chest with pride!

2011-08-04T08:48:00.001+05:30

Forgiveness
Excerpts Rama Awasthi

1). Forgiving someone is not about saying : ' You are right and I am wrong' but about saying : I am smart and I don't waste my energy in nurturing a victim mentality'

2). Forgiving someone doesn't mean that the person who harmed me won. But about saying that my life is free from unnecessary complications.

3). Forgiveness is a charity that always begins from home. When we choose to forgive, then we travel light and allow ourselves to nurture our creativity.

4). Forgiveness allows:
A free flow of chi or Prana people who carry anger has a sinking chi or prana...observing silence for maybe 10 mnts helps maintain the balance of chi. It helps in focussing on the messages of life and not on the messengers.

2011-08-01T20:56:00.001+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 5

My note:
What is meditation?

The English meditation is derived from the Latin meditatio, from a verb meditari, meaning "to think, contemplate, devise, ponder, meditate".
Buddhists and Hindus use the root word dhyaai

Some believe Meditation to be focussed attention.
Rhythmic chants are sometimes prescribed. One of it's benefits is to stop the chatter of the mind and help to meditate.
There are various meditative techniques

1) One focusses ones attention on a chosen object.

2) One practices complete awareness of the experience from moment to moment."

3) follow thoughts as a puppy follows any pair of legs it finds into motion
Also, observe thoughts as a man stationed at his window watchers passers by at the street.

4) Become aware and only observe the air as it comes in and goes out through the nostrils without controlling the breathing or attempting to deepen it.

One important Oriental Master said: ' Your breathing is your greatest friend. Return to it in all your troubles and you will find comfort and guidance'

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-08-01T20:56:00.000+05:30

2011-07-29T06:52:00.002+05:30

Have been listening to everythingisenergysummit.com/event
It is free for the next few days and it is interesting.
Some points:

Tapping Healing

Imagine a painful experience which hurt

Change your root belief

Don't chase anything, wait for divine guidance

Change the root

Give it a rating
Tap a few inches away with 4 fingers of both hands

Where eyebrows meet. But think of something pleasant or a happy experience.

Adam apple

Chin

Temples

Rate how u feel

Once ur inner rage pain is removed, one heals.

Remove blocks to hear your inner voice

You should know it in your knower.

2
Love unconditionally
Feel love within you and spread
Accept your partner unconditionally

2011-07-26T15:55:00.000+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 4

In the verse 7 and 8 of Chapter 6 Krishna states: "He is spoken of as a God realized soul who is perfectly serene in the midst of pairs of opposites, such as joy and sorrow,cold and heat...

In Verse 9 of Chater 6 Lord Krishna continues to explain how a God realized Soul feels and behaves.
'He looks with the same eye':
Well-wishers, neutrals, mediators
Friends and foes
Relatives and objects of hatred
Virtuous and sinful

Lord Krishna continues in verse 10:
'The yogi who has controlled his mind and body...should constantly engage his mind in meditation'
My note
How to meditate?
To be continued

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-07-15T13:54:00.002+05:30

Where was I during bomb blasts? It is ironical. I was at a meeting with Mr. Gorgievski (Co-Founder of Global Dialogue Foundation) He was appraising us of the UN vision to make Mumbai the first Unity in Diversity city, and to open new paths for increased understanding and cooperation among people, cultures and communities.
The meeting had representatives from all religions and cultures.
Point to note is a visitor got a call about the bomb blasts in Mumbai.
Everyone silently and peacefully phoned family friends, switched on TVs and dispersed.
Would you call the meeting a success?

2011-07-13T11:19:00.003+05:30

In the photographs: Peter Gorgievski, Kiran Thawardas, Maya Shahani and myself.
Mr Peter Gorgievski is the Co-Founder of Global Dialogue Foundation)
Ms Maya Shahani is the Chairperson of Sage Foundation
Kiran Thawardas is my grandson and he helped build a website for the 'Unity in Diversity' project which is operating under the auspices of United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, to open new pathways for increased understanding and collaboration among people and cultures throughout the world.

2011-07-11T17:33:00.001+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 3

In the last lesson we learned that in order to make ones own self ones friend, we have to conquer ones body senses and mind.
In the verse 7 and 8 of Chapter 6 Krishna states: "He is spoken of as a God realized soul who is perfectly serene in the midst of pairs of opposites, such as joy and sorrow,cold and heat and honor and ignominy.
The self controlled man in whom the Supreme Spirit is rooted, to him stone and gold are alike.

My note:
Allow me to tell you a story, I heard:
A sanyasi couple was walking in the forest when one noticed a gold coin on the floor...the husband told the wife: "walk on, it is a stone"!

The following sutra may not be absolutely relevant to the above but it is related:
The Ishavasya Upanishad says your ego will disappear if you cease to call anything yours. "Everything in the universe is controlled and owned by the Lord. Accept only those things that are essential."

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-07-08T09:27:00.002+05:30

Was invited to a screening of the 'Sun behind the clouds' on the occasion of the birth day of the Dalai Lama. You could have a peep on what the film was about in the link below.
http://thesunbehindtheclouds.com/

In Osho's words:
"The only country that was working in search of ones own interior and its treasures (Soul) has been stopped by the communist invasion of Tibet...Now on the modern Chinese map Tibet is their territory.
And we think the world is civilized where innocent people who are not doing any harm to anybody are simply destroyed..."

2011-07-07T08:32:00.000+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 2

In the last lesson we learned that by merely giving up activity one does not become a sanyaasi (renouncer) but by giving up desire of fruits of action.
My note
During the so many years that I have been an instrument to explain the Geeta, youngsters have often asked: "How can one act without expecting fruits of action?
My understanding is: eg you want to be a doctor, you study medicine and you pursue your goal systematically until you become one. But you will only be able to be faithful to your goal if you concentrate on the moment...study diligently...In the spiritual context your effort of the moment is your 'success meter' whether you become a doctor or not is in God's hands.

Krishna in verse 5 of chapter 6 states:
One should lift oneself by one's own efforts...for ones own self is ones own friend and ones own self is ones own enemy.
Ones own self becomes ones own friend when one conquers ones body senses and mind.
My note:
Guru Nanak says something similar:
Man jeetey jag jetty
He who conquers the mind conquers the world.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-07-05T11:34:00.001+05:30

Sunita Godbole is a trustee of Women's Movement for Peace and Prosperity (WMPP). She has a passion for preserving the planet's depleting greenery. So if the planet survives the crisis, we will all have Sunita to thank to, for increasing our children's life span.
To pursue her passion further she has founded a new NGO named 'Forever Green Foundation'
What a way to go, Sunita! Keep going we are with you always! In the photograph Sunita Godbole,Mallika Oberoi, also a trustee of WMPP.

2011-07-03T14:42:00.004+05:30

In the photo Malika Hemant Oberoi, Kiran and an under priviledged student

It has been lovely the last couple of weeks. My daughter Madhavi came down with her younger son Kiran followed later by her husband and elder son Aditya.
I love it, that the schools in America and I believe in India as well, are encouraging children to do social service. So my grandson Kiran helped in serving mid-day meals, helped with an origami class at two under privileged schools. He is also helping an ngo create a blog/website.
I spoke for a few minutes and told the children that even though my grandson lives in America, I do not want him to forget the country that he was born in. So when they are succesful which they will surely be, they must also return and serve India.
I ended by singing: 'Hum hongey kaamiyaab, ek din...ho ho man mein hai vishwaas, poora hai vishwaas hum hongey kaamiyaab ek din...

2011-07-01T17:46:00.004+05:30

I got the following invitation:

My Dear Friend,
I am attaching the invitation for the VOLUNTEERS TRAINING PROGRAM to be held on Saturday, June 25th ,2011,
at 10am to be held at BCAS.
We will be very happy to see you all there but also bring in your friends who would be interested in participating in the program
Please also share this message with other members and friends who have attended the meeting in the past as they may fail to see this message or fail to receieve this invitation
Please do confrim your participation so that we can make the necessary arrangements for you.
hope to see you all on Saturday. June 25 at The BCAS.
warm regards.
Akbar
asmerchant@gmail.com

My note:

Dear Friends,
I personally attended this program and I think it is very do able.
Just 2 hrs every saturday morning for 12 weeks.
The english that needs to be taught is absolutely basic and no preparation is really necesarry.
BCAS is short for Bombay Chartered Association Society and is situated opposite Nirmala Niketan, Marine Lines.

Do please attend and help 'make a difference'
Much love Shakun
If you live in Mumbai
For more details you may call a very enthusiastic vibrant young lady called Farheen Vaseem
farheenvaseem@gmail.com
981 910 8191
Much love,
Shakun Kimatrai

Be kinder than necessary-
Everyone you meet is fighting
Some kind of battle.

2011-07-01T08:45:00.001+05:30

From left: Zeenat Shaukatalli, Homi Dhalla, Narendra Desai, Ram Puniyani

I attended an Interfaith Hindu Muslim dialogue on the 10th of June 2011 hosted by the Wisdom Foundation and Foundation for Unity of Religions (FUREC) at Homi J. Taleyarkhan Memorial Hall.

Some points discussed:

1) No peace amongst nations without peace amongst religions.
2) What is common between us? We have one Sun and one God.
3) Due to rift among religions/nations 110 million people lost their lives in the last century.
4) Sufis have played a great role in building bridges.
5) Gayatri Mantra is very similar to one in the Quran
6) Dara Shukoh wrote about co-mingling of two oceans
7) 3 Editions of Bhagvad Geeta were sold out in Pakistan.
8) Ignorance leads to prejudice.
9) 3 Lessons from 3 major religions:
Hinduism: Vasudeva Kutumbakam (World is one family)
Christianity: Love thy neighbour as much as yourself.
Islam: If we do not care for our neighbours needs, heavens doors will close on us.

2011-06-30T09:58:00.006+05:30

Now a days I dont travel as much as I used to. So I do the next best thing. I take a day trip. And if it is monsoon time, the greenery and the clouds tend to soothe ones nerves.
I went with my friend Shahshi Devidayal to Vippassana centre near Gorai Beach, and Essel world Mumbai.
It was a treat.
I heard that the Pagoda was the largest in the world. The museum with paintings from Buddhas life was beautiful.
Construction is still going on.
Have ticked on Vippassana meditation course mentally for sometime later.

2011-06-11T09:19:00.000+05:30

Chapter 6 Lesson 1

My note:
Because one is bound by ones actions ( one sometimes erroneously believes that if one were to give up all actions, escape from life by becoming an ascetic, a sanyasi, one would happily escape consequences, ( karma) but sadly that is not the case.

Lord Krishna in the first verse of chapter 6 states:
"He is no yogi who has merely given up all activity.
He who does his duty without expecting the fruits of action is a real sanyasi ( renouncer)

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-06-11T09:13:00.001+05:30

Role of Father in Child Care in our meeting on 4th June.
MRS initiatives of change

Due to sudden rains, many friends could not come. I request you all (including those who were there for the meeting) to kindly send me your answers to the following questions. Please ask your spouse also to answer independently:

1. In what way you yourself as a father or your husband played a good role in past for effective fathering?

I lost my father when I was 4 years old. I always felt a vacuum in my heart and missed a father immensely specially during the 'very happy moments' or 'very sad' moments in my life. I felt the vacuum lift once I had my own children and I saw them enjoying their father's love.
Though my husbsnd's business warranted that he travel a great deal, he spent quality time with his children when he was in town. Maybe because I had lost my father when I was too young I never made my children feel that they did not have quantity time from their father. Though the children missed their father when he was away, an issue was never made of it.
My husband and I presented a united front in front of my kids. Even if we differed on any issues we would discuss it behind closed doors, come to a decision and present it to our children.

2. In what way you as a father or your husband feels that thinking retrospectively he could have done a better job in specific situations?

My husband has been keeping indifferent health for a while, so I will put forth my point of view, more quantity time would have been welcome and thereby his involvement in PTA activities and also changing a diaper or two.u

3. In what way you or your husband feel that in future,ly, you will be conscious to play a more effective role as a father – irrespective of the age of your child – 5 months or 50 years?

I can't think of any way. I believe that when the children are young you can guide them...when they are older you should let them lead their own lives but be for them when they need you which I like to believe we are.

Shakun

2011-06-05T13:43:00.002+05:30

Yesterday, the first saturday of the month of June we had the MRA meeting hosted by Dr Anand and his always charming wife Asha.
The topic of discussion was the role of fathers in effective parenting.
Dr Maya Kirpalani led the enlightening talk and discussion.
Let me share some points with you:

Fathers play a very important role in a child's life physically, emotionally and spiritually.

1) Children who visualize a compassionate God is usually due to the fact that they have had a compassionate and understanding father.
On the other hand if children visualize a punitive God it is because the father was probably judgemental and always 'punishing'for 'wrong behaviour'...

2) Both father and children 'grow' positively from interaction...a father becomes more sensitive, loving...a child learns to be more assertive, self reliant...

3)A child notices how father 'treats' mother...Very often they emulate what they 'see' as children.

4) Sexual behaviour, fantasies could be discussed with father only if there has been a cordial relationship earlier

5)In case of a girl child: If she notices father rejecting mother she may reject her femininty. She may act like a tomboy. She may distrust men and fear intimacy.Fatherless women may become seductive in her 'seeking' male attention...or she may become anti-male. Gays have generally had a less supportive father.

6) A girl child recognizes a 'good touch'. A normal/good father touches respectfully. A girl then expects that kind of treatment from relationships...Sometimes they create unrealistic expectation from husbands.

Think about it: If you say: I will tell your mother/father about you (your behaviour)
You are reducing your own authority.

2011-05-29T11:26:00.005+05:30

We Building members and friends meet every last Saturday of the month at our building's Ac Hall and share talents and passions and what we have learned over the years.

Vimla Patil explained: Dance in Indian tradition is a language of the whole body. The feet, the hands, the eyes and the face and their expressions and movements are the language. It is a language of excitement, joy, love and romance and thus very attractive to the eye as well as to the heart. The mudras, which are common to Yogic positions and dance, are an integral part of the dance style.

Vimla showed some of these mudras and ended with a quiz cum game for everyone to follow.
Madhavi Mehta gave us a demonstration and talk on ‘Hast Mudras’ (Hand gestures) employed in dance. She also be performed a short dance.
She looked beautiful in her costume and looked years and years younger. I have noticed that is what happens when you share your 'passion' in life and obviously dance is hers.
All in all it was an enchanting evening.

Vimla's quiz was great fun. After explaining mudras she asked us to enact/dance a scene and people were supposed to guess. I tried and was not too bad. Anyway it makes me happy to think so :)

2011-05-27T11:32:00.000+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 11

Whenever Krishna speaks about 'Me' he does not mean Krishna the son of Devki, Yashoda but means the 'Self in the individual'
The Self is 'Maheshwara' the Lord of Lords'
Ishwara could mean 'controller of all fields of activities'
'Sacrifices and austerities' could mean all self control undertaken to merge with the Infinite.
Now we should be able to understand what Lord Krishna means in the last verse of the the 5th chapter:
Knowing me as enjoyer of all sacrifices and austerities, the Great Lord of all worlds, the friend of all beings, he attains peace.
And thus ends chapter 5 of the Bhagvad Geeta.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-05-23T20:57:00.001+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 10
In the verse 27, 28 of chapter 5 Lord Krishna speaks of meditation.
Krishna says: 'Shutting out all thoughts of external enjoyments, with the gaze fixed on all the space between the eyebrows, having regulated the Prana (outgoing breath) and the Apana (ingoing breath) flowing within the nostrils, he who has brought his senses, mind and intellect under control, such a contemplative soul intent on liberation and free from desire, fear and anger is ever liberated.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-05-18T14:59:00.001+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 9
My note:
I have heard that he who is able to remember the Lord at the time of death attains the Supreme. The latter seems and sounds easy does it not? Well not really, because it is what constantly fills your mind that will manifest at the time of death and thereafter.
I have also heard that if you constantly think of money you will incarnate as a snake, if you think of children and are consumed by attachment you will incarnate as a piglet. Interestingly an almost enlightened soul whose last thought was of a juicy mango incarnated as an insect for a brief span of time. He enjoyed the mango and then attained to a Supreme State!
Lord Krishna states in Verse 23, 24 of Chapter 5 that he is a happy man and a yogi who can stand in this very life, before casting off his body (dying) the urges of lust and anger. He enjoys within himself the inner light of the soul, attains Brahma who is all peace.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-05-16T20:49:00.000+05:30

My son at the Beijing film festival!

2011-05-14T22:18:00.005+05:30

In the above photograph, Michael Sowder, Manju Uttam and myself.
Interesting how I met Michael. He read 'Pilgrims of the Stars' by Ma Indira Devi (My Guru) and Dadaji (Dilip Kumar Roy)
Michael felt a strong connection with Ma. He googled the book and was led to my website www.dalsabzi.com and my book: 'Remembering Ma through the pages of my diary.'
We wrote to me...I replied. He had a desire to come to India to visit Ma's Mandir in Pune. So he is in Mumbai and today we met for lunch. Manju besides being a dear relative of mine is a co-disciple. So she happily joined us and we had an enjoyable meeting over lunch. Obviously such encounters are from our last janam.
Michael is a professor and gifted me a book of poems penned by him entitled 'The Empty boat'
Obviously he is an old sensitive traveler on the path, and I am happy to have met him!

2011-05-10T13:54:00.002+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 8
Krishna says in Verse 21 that he who meditates derives joy.

My note:
We believe that all joy comes from ‘outside’ and rightly so.
Don’t we feel a surge of joy when our desires are fulfilled?
Why should we feel joy when we meditate?
I heard an interesting theory from a Spiritual Master.
Scriptures claim we have an Ananda-maya Kosha (A sheath of Bliss) within us.
That sheath is covered by the thick fog of our constant thoughts, emotions, desires…
The moment our ‘desire is fulfilled’ the thoughts that cover the ‘anand-maya kosh (Sheath of bliss) ‘stop, move away, dissipate, and so the bliss/joy sheath is revealed.

So if one meditates and stops the unnecessary chatter of the mind, the Bliss that lives within us will always be accessible.

Therefore Krishna says: ‘The worldly pleasures have a beginning and an end.
He who is happy within himself, enjoys within himself the delight of the soul. He is illumined by the ‘Inner light’ and is peaceful and enjoys eternal bliss.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-05-05T16:42:00.001+05:30

Akshay Triteeya on the 6th of May. Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/akshaya_tritiya_or_akshatrij_or_.htm

2011-05-03T13:55:00.002+05:30

Yesterday I attended a condolence meeting with a difference. I was told by the deceased's sister not to wear white. They were going to celebrate their sister's life. Maybe it is done this way sometimes but for me it was a new experience and so it was for those who attended it.
They sang the deceased's favourite songs, told us the jokes she enjoyed, recited relevant poetry and danced to 'Duma Dum mast kalander' I sensed the people's discomort. I took the mike (with permission)
I said: " I have known the 4 sisters since I was a young girl' and they have been unique. (Modern compassionate loving down to earth, living the way they best knew without harming a soul) Life is made up of joy sorrow laughter tears and this is what we have seen here. __lived a full life and it is time to let go and the sisters have done it in their always unique way. Those who agree with me, please give me a hand.
I got a thunderous applause, everyone relaxed, later appreciated my 1 minute speech. One of the sisters said: I dont know how to thank you!
I felt good for having the courage to speak what I truly felt though maybe I took the juice out of unnessecary harsh 'gossipy' words of those who attended...but who knows, maybe now they will gossip about me... I dont care... I love the sisters and their unique ways!

2011-04-30T12:05:00.003+05:30

Last thursday I met Mata Gnaneshwari, President of Shanti aashram, Mission of Peace in Andhra Pradesh. She is diminutive 80 years old. She exuded peace. There was a time when I used to walk, ride, jet to meet Spiritual humans because I loved to be in their aura. Now it is not so easy for many reasons. So I enjoyed meeting this lovely lady.
That same night I had a traumatic experience but it got resolved quick enough...better and quicker than expected.
I remembered a time when I had gone to a Divine Life Spiritual Camp.
I met a saint who had seen me do an act of kindness which he claimed he was sure had no ulterior motive.
So he blessed me. He said "I can't stop what you have to go through because of your previous karmas, but I bless you that they will pass over you like a breeze.
I remembered that blessing and am almost convinced that that bessing tides me over difficult moments!

2011-04-22T13:20:00.000+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 7

My note:
What is the yardstick one uses to gauge whether one is growing spiritually?
In verse 20 of Chapter 5, Krishna answers: “One who does not rejoice when obtaining something pleasant and does not feel perturbed when encountering the unpleasant” (but remains equanimous).

My note:
Tough one is’nt it?

Let us just become aware of how our mind works. The more the pendulum moves towards ‘happiness’ when someone praises us, the same amount does the pendulum move towards despair when they criticize us!

Or when one makes money or loses it.
You may use any situation in its both aspects to experiment.

But supposing you were truly aware of your worth, or realized that everything has a beginning and an ending…would the pendulum move that much, one way and another?

Krishna says that a ‘knower of Brahma lives eternally in identity with Brahma’

My note: Who is the knower of Brahma?
He who delves deep into oneself and realizes ones true Divine nature.
And how does one delve deep?
Krishna replies:
“Through meditation”

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-04-17T19:42:00.002+05:30

The 17th was Mahavir Jayanti, tomorrow is Hanuman Jayanti. Do read about Hindu Festivals. I keep updating the links on my website. Just visit
www.dalsabzi.com and scroll down to What's News

You want to know what it means to be a Hindu in short simple terms? Read my books. They are on my website for free perusal.
I took great trouble to make it simple...and only God could have helped me!

2011-04-10T19:17:00.000+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 6

In the17th Verse of Chapter 5 of the Bhaagvad Geeta ,Krishna states that the ‘wise ones’ look with the same eye on a Brahman, a cow, an elephant, dog and pariah too.

In the 19th Verse Krishna states: ‘…The Absolute is untouched by evil and knows no distinction…’

My note: Where does the caste system fit in here? I have said this earlier but I repeat that the caste systems were akin to professions…

2011-04-06T13:30:00.003+05:30

We won the World cup...
I believe we are ahead in the scale of progress.
So does not that prove that caste and creed and land of birth, how rich or poor, does not matter..?
What matters really is the unity of the country, and the common goal...

Let me prove the point in question.
1) The bowling is led by 2 young muslims
2) The coach is a devout christian
3)The captain is a rags to riches story. He dared to dream and made it against odds because he believed.
4) The star player comes from Chandigad
5) The icon player is a Saraswat Brahmin
6)The top spinner is a Sikh from Jalandhar
7)One of the finest batsman is from Ghaziabad
8)Another is a jat from Hariana
9)Another is a kashmiri Pandit
10)The third bowler comes from Kothamangalam in Kerala
11) Another bowler comes from Aligarh
( Above information from 'The Power of Inclusivity' by Pritish Nandy

We deserved to win! We have come a very long way...Keep going India
We are with you
Lekin yeh soch banaaye rakhna
I know there is fundamentalism trying to rear its ugly head, but I believe that those who spread hatred could be politicians but not true spiritualists!

2011-04-03T13:39:00.002+05:30

Festivals galore

4th of April
Navratras
Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/navratra.htm

5th of April
Sindhi New Year
Jhulelal
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/jhulelal.htm

4h of April
Gudi Padwa:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/GudiPadwa.htm

It is ausicious to read the Ramayana during Navratras,
Read it in short
Read the Ramayana

http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/symbolisms_ramayana/intro.htm

2011-03-25T15:52:00.004+05:30

Happy Birthday to His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin Saheb (T.U.S.)
We have members of the Bohra community living in our building. They generally 'keep to themselves' and are peaceful neighbours and occassionally flash a smile as we meet in the lift.
A few years ago there was a lot of commotion and festivilty fervour in our foyer. I asked what we were celebrating. They mentioned that the Syedna was visiting a resident of/in our building.
There were many awaiting to welcome His Holiness.
I have always travelled miles to be in the aura of Spiritual personalities...so I asked myself: "Why lose this opportunity"?
I covered my head and stood with the ladies, but obviously I stood out and the Syedna invited me into the car and acknowledged my feeling.
Everyone present and those who saw the interaction said I was very lucky and I felt so.
Today as I see the whole newspaper filled with articles of His Holiness and multitudes wishing him well, I feel more blessed.

2011-03-23T12:23:00.001+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 5
According to Vedanta we are Divine beings having a human experience and not human beings (occasionally) having a divine experience.
So why do we not ‘see’ or ‘recognize’ our divine nature?
Because it is covered by Kaam (passion) krodh (anger) lobh (greed) moha (attachment) and ahankaar (ego) These 5 form a dark film over our clear ‘glass’
This ‘clear glas’ is equivalent to the ‘divine’ in everything and everyone.

You may have heard the lovely couplet:
Ghoongat ke pat khol re
Tohey piya milenge
Which means:
Move aside your veil
And you will meet your beloved

And now maybe one will be able to understand better:
Where knowledge exists, Ignorance can not.
So when one removes Ignorance, one does not create knowledge…One rediscovers it!
and
The point that Krishna makes:
‘Knowledge is being enveloped by ignorance, thereby beings are constantly falling a prey to delusion’

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-03-18T12:13:00.001+05:30

Today is Holi
Tomorrow we colour one another with love and friendship
Read about festival and legends connected with it.
Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/holi.htm http://www.dalsabzi.com/Books/kids_kahaani/bhaagvad_stories/prahlad_and_holika.htm

2011-03-15T13:44:00.002+05:30

On March the 13th 2011 was invited to a book release function of 'Women in Hindu Society ( A critical Appraisal of their status in India from the Vedic Period to Modern Times) The book is authored by Shri S.K. Kulkarni and was released at the hands of Ms Supriya Sule (Member of Parliament.

My gracious hostess was Ms Sonavi Desai who facilitates these inspiring books through Indus Source Books.
Some very interesting points were made by Shri Ujjwal D Nikam, Shri Satish Sahney, Dr Vibhuti Patel and Smt Arundati Hoskeri.

My comments: We may have taken certain steps on the 'rightful status of women' but there is yet a lot of terrain to be crossed...Door nagri badi door nagri...

The book is worth a dekho. Look it up

...and thanks Sonavi. Keep up the good work!

For more information, click:
www.indussource.com

2011-03-12T12:52:00.001+05:30

15th Verse of the 5th Chapter

My note:

Allow me to warn you that it is verses like the ‘following’ that confuse Readers of the Geeta and so put the Grand Book aside.

Krishna says that:

‘The omnipresent God does not take merit or demerit of any’

My note:

I myself believe that it is the Karma Theory that is in operation and that God does not peep down from clouds and keep account of very sin and merit of people around the world…

Don’t forget that according to Vedanta the ‘Finite World’ is an illusion.

The other point that Krishna makes in the above verse is:

‘Knowledge is being enveloped by ignorance, thereby beings are constantly falling a prey to delusion’

My note:

Where knowledge exists, Ignorance can not.

So when one removes Ignorance, one does not create knowledge…One rediscovers it!

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-03-08T14:07:00.001+05:30

Happy Women's Day

Do read my book 'Power of Feminine'
It is on my website for free persusal.

Click:
http://dalsabzi.com/the_power_of_the_feminine.pdf
Do please fwd the link.
Thanks and luv to all you wonderful women out there!
Shakun Narain

2011-03-06T15:00:00.000+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 4

My note:
Do you know why the Lotus Flower is the National flower of India?
The Lotus symbolizes divinity, knowledge and enlightenment.
Why does it symbolize the above?
Because despite the fact that the lotus is born and grows in mud, it is untouched by it!
That is the way a truly Spiritual man must live in this world.
Though living midst negativity, he remains clean.
The Lotus flower therefore also symbolizes purity of heart and mind.
It is for the above reason that the lotus is ‘held’ by many Gods and Goddesses and is often used in religious practices.

Lord Krishna in the 10th Verse of Chapter 5, states:
He who acts offering all actions to God, and shaking off attachment, remains untouched by sin, as the lotus leaf by water.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-03-05T12:44:00.000+05:30

Have compiled some notes on:

DEPRESSION

It is NORMAL to be depressed sometimes
It is abnormal to be depressed all the time

SOME SYMPTOMS
Loss of interest or concentration
Suicidal thoughts
Excessive fatigue
Early morning wakefulness
Difficulty in functioning socially
Slowed down or speeded up thinking or activity

MENTAL HEALTH
Talks too much or too little
Stops communicating
Sometimes violent
Generally out of touch with reality

ONLY YOU CAN HELP YOURSELF

EXERCISE
It produces chemical and psychological changes that improve your mental health

It gives you a feeling of accomplishment and mastery

Changes levels of hormones
Elevates your beta endorphins (mood affecting brain chemicals)

NUTRITION
Vitamins and foods rich in Vitamin B
Green vegetables, fish, eggs

SOCIALIZE
Discuss your deep down feelings with people who can empathize with you

You might think people ignore you…think your way out…maybe he id not see you or was pre-occupied

If you are feeling unattractive, get a new hairstyle

If not succeeding at a job, take a course to improve skill

Plan activities that give you a sense of accomplishment
Go to concert, club, meeting or clean out cupboard

Keep friends with whom you can share joys, fun, complaints

CHECK YOUR THYROID
Depression could be due to hormonal imbalance

LOW SUGAR CAN MAKE YOU FEEL LOW

CHECK MEDICATION YOUR ARE TAKING

UPLIFTERS

1) This too shall pass
2) Life is a dream
3) Let go and Let God
4) Things could be worse and you would be as helpless
5) Do your best and Leave the rest
6) It is God’s Will
7) Music
8) Exercise
9) Drink water

10) Pick up a
11) Sutra
12) Ishta
13) Mantra
14) Sant
15) Grantha

2011-03-02T17:51:00.001+05:30

Today, the 2nd of March is Maha Shivratri.
I have compiled a lot of interesting information.
Pls click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/Language_Festivals/shivratri.htm

2011-02-27T19:31:00.001+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 3
Not the Doer

My note:

Before I go on to what Krishna says in the Geeta next, we need to understand another Hindu concept.
The above concept claims that one is not really the doer!
Please do not smirk and dismiss. Read on!
The Vedanta concept claims that the real 'I' is not the doer, it is the 'Witness'.
In Indian parlance, Witness is the ‘Saakshi’.
Difficult to understand, no?
Lord Krishna says in Verse 6 of Chapter 5, that (not only is the above concept difficult to understand but also) it is difficult to accomplish.
Krishna says that he who knows the reality of things, must believe, even though seeing, hearing, smelling, eating or drinking, speaking, answering the calls of nature, grasping and opening or closing the eyes, that he does nothing, holding that it is the senses that are moving among their objects.
Krishna urges that one must keep ones mind fixed in God, master ones mind, identify oneself with (ones)true self, offers all ones actions to God, shake off attachment, reaches Brahma (God) in no time as one remains untainted even though performing action.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-02-22T11:30:00.001+05:30

Chapter 5 Lesson 2

My note:

Why does Krishna say that the Yoga of Action is superior to that of Renunciation (Though both roads lead to ‘Highest Bliss?)

To my mind, Renouncing, in the true sense of the word is indeed difficult. If one has a ‘troubled mind’ that mind will pursue one wherever one may be.

Also one cannot really ‘be without action’ and possessions.

Even a renunciate has to act in the form of begging for alms or cooking to eat and sustain himself.

One may argue that those actions do not accrue karmas and one is probably right. But what does one do with a troubled mind that finds myriads of ways to react?

Just for interest sake. I have heard that sanyasins can get attached to the 2nd set of clothes (worrying that they may be stolen) and hence own only one pair, which is washed simultaneously as one bathes.

Out of the millions who took to the woods to search for ultimate union with the Lord, a handful made it. But then so many who stayed in the ‘market place’ also did!

Sincerity is the key.

Meera says: Bhav saagar sab sookh gayo hai, fikr naheen mohe tarnan ki…

Which means, the Ocean (world) has dried up for me, I am not worried about remaining afloat…But then why did Meera leave home? Because for her, the palace held no allure and she wanted to be left in peace to sing to and for her Lord!

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-02-20T16:02:00.000+05:30

CHAPTER 5
Lesson 1
Despite Krishna’s early instructions. Arjuna is confused.
Dear Readers, remember I had told you that the questions that would arise in you will also arise within Arjuna?
Arjuna asks Krishna: Which is superior? The Yoga of Action or the Yoga of renunciation of Action (to retire to a jungle,to live in constant inactivity, a life of self denial)?

Lord Krishna answers: Renunciation of action and Yoga of action both lead to the “Highest bliss’ but of the two the Yoga of Action is superior to the Renunciation of Action.
He should be known as a perpetual sanyaasi (renunciate) who neither hates nor desires,(even though he lives in the market place of the world) for free from pairs of opposites (love hate, joy sorrow…) he is easily free from bondage”

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-02-19T13:22:00.003+05:30

Was invited to a conference of neuro surgeons hosted by the 16th convention of Academia Eurasiana Neurochirurgica inauguration
Had the honour of doing darshan of the Dalai Lama at the Taj, Crystal Room. His Holiness said that the Science of the mind can be seen in the ancient Indian traditions of samadhi and vipassana. Technology coupled with peace is the key to progress. Keep the mind calm but go to doctors for cure.
The wonderful event was organized by Dr Keki Turel.

2011-02-15T20:52:00.001+05:30

Chapter 4 Lesson 10
In the previous verse we learned that through knowledge, Truth, God realization and peace is attained.
Knowledge is attained through the company and teachings of Illumined Souls.
What happens to those who are possessed by doubt?
He is lost in the Spiritual path and there is no happiness for him in this world nor in the world beyond. Therefore O Arjuna, Krishna says, slash to pieces this doubt in your heart, with the sword of wisdom, and stand up for the fight.

My note:
One is able to live in a reasonably sane manner in the world, because of ones faith, that one will not die of a heart attack, or the building will not crumble down on us or we shall not die as we cross the road…The more faith one has the more one is able to accomplish…
So much for faith…
When Krishna says ‘stand up for the fight’ one may interpret it as ‘face life with courage!’
And thus ends the Chapter 4 of the Bhagvad Geeta.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-02-11T15:31:00.002+05:30

Knowledge (Gyaan)
Chapter 4 Lesson 9
Lord Krishna in Chapter 4 Verse 39 states that One who has mastered his senses and is full of faith, attains to knowledge (Gyaan)
Through knowledge, the truth is revealed to him and in the state of God realization, he attains peace.
Lord Krishna describes knowledge as a great purifier.
Sacrifice (Action) through knowledge is superior to sacrifice performed with material things.

Just like the blazing fire turns fuel into ashes, so the fire of knowledge turns all actions to ashes.
(So why renounce actions? Use knowledge or the power to discriminate…and apne karam karte chalo and dharam nibhaate chalo)’.

Krishna says that knowledge alone would carry you, even though you were the foulest of sinners, like a raft across all your sin.
But how to attain that knowledge?

Lord Krishna in Verse 34 states that if one prostrates at the feet of Illumined Souls, render them service, question them with an open and guileless heart, those wise seers of Truth will instruct one in that knowledge.

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-02-06T14:13:00.002+05:30

Chapter 4 Lesson 8

My note:
It has been explained earlier that ‘sacrifice’ implies a ‘prayer’, an action, which could mean ‘an offering’ It has also been explained that if you would like to become a doctor, your ‘sacrifice’ or ‘action’ would be ‘your relevant study to become a doctor’.
In that context Krishna explains that ‘sacrifice’ can imply:
1) Seeing Brahma (God everywhere and in everyone)
2) Sacrifice of senses into the fire of self discipline.
3) Functions of the senses into the fire of yoga in the shape of self control, kindled by wisdom.
4) Sacrifice of material possessions, austerities, practice of Yoga, study of sacred texts, and practice of breath control.
Krishna states: “To the man who does not offer sacrifice, even this world is not happy; how then can the other world be happy?

If you would like to read what I have written so far, Click:

http://www.dalsabzi.com/wisdom_script/bhagvad_gita.htm

2011-01-30T12:46:00.007+05:30

Mr Ram Jethmalani is a well known face amongst the legal community in India. Even though he is primarily known as only a criminal lawyer, he has appeared in many high profile cases.
I have known him nearly all my life as his daughter Shobha was a school class mate of mine and we continue to be good friends.
Ms Asha Chand,has a tremendous passion: To promote the Sindhi Language
Yesterday, the 29th of January I attended a meeting where we requested Mr Jethmalani to pursue our demand of a 24 hour Sindhi TV Channel from the Govt of India.
At the time of Partition we Sindhis did not receive any land to call our own, and yet in 60 years we Sindhis have struggled, not only survived but given back to Society in terms of Hospitals, Education Institutions...So in my mind we Sindhis deserve that much! What? A DD Sindhi 24 hour channel!
High quality TV Production could be the first step which can open more avenues of learning ones beautiful culture and language over a period of time!
I endorse what Asha Chand said:
We have three Mothers:
1) Who gave us birth
2) Matru Bhoomi (Our land)
3) Our Language

Do I even need to say that we must nurture them?
How?
Even putting a signature to a signature campaign might help. not to talk about sponsoring programmes on tv or speaking with personalities who may be able to help in the endeavour, or forwarding this note or blog url...
To watch a TV Interview that Asha Chand did of 'Yours Truly, Click on:
www.dalsabzi.com

For more Info
E Mail: info@sindhisangat.comwww.sindhisangat.com
www.sindhisangat.tv

2011-01-26T18:13:00.002+05:30

I was really touched by what this gentleman wrote to me after reading my article.

Click:
http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/sindhi_surnames/sindhis_and_sindhi.htm

Feedback for: Welcome to Dal Sabzi for Aatman : Sindhis and Sindhi

Name : SHAHID

Comment :
I m a SINDHI man and m living in Hyderabad, SINDH. I have just read this article and felt extremely sorry for the attitude of those TWO Sindhi guys that sister Shakun Narain Kimatrai mentioned. Sister Shakun, ur love for ur ancestors and their language is beyond any doubt. Sister, when i read ur article i have moved in my heart alot. U r quite right that you all Hindus left ur land with heavy heart.Today, I m 35 yrs old but when i see old builings of hindus in areas like Hearabad, Gaari Khataa, Market Tower and Station Road, i m compelled to think that how beautiful structures are these, and the owners of these structure had certainly abandoned all these with the heavy rain of tears in their eyes. O God, would this never happened. This is a deadly and very painful feeling of deprivation of their priceless assests. Sister, i do apologise on behalf of those TWO sindhi guys who hurt u rather than realising ur position and environment in which u r living ; and that whatever happened some sixty three years ago was absolutely wrong.

URL : http://www.dalsabzi.com/books/sindhi_surnames/sindhis_and_sindhi.htm