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.

'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

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

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

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.

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.

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?

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

"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'

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

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

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

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

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..."

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'.

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

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.

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

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'