Blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi Mata

ॐ जय लक्ष्मी माता

Goddess Lakshmi is the consort of Sri Vishnu Bhagwan and is the deity of wealth, prosperity and beauty. She is the sister of Goddesses Mahasaraswati and Mahakali. Goddess MahaLakshmi is the most popular household deity and is worshipped across the country in every Hindu household. As the consort of Sri Vishnu the goddess has incarnated as Sita and Rukmini to perform the rites of a wife whenever the Lord has incarnated in human form. Ma Lakshmi is known as the goddess of wealth, but never stays with those people who are lazy and desire excessive wealth . If the goddess is pleased by her believers then she brings immense fortune and auspiciousness to his house. She halts only in those houses where righteousness and morality prevails; in due course she is bound to leave the houses of ill minded people.. The goddess is shown as standing on a Lotus flower, having four arms. In her three arms she is shown holding lotus flowers and the third one raised in blessing, showering wealth from it.

Ma Laxmi appears in daily prayers but the holy day associated with Lakshmi Puja is Diwali, which is the biggest festival of the Hindus. On this day the goddess is invoked with full dedication by singing praises to her and making beautiful rangolis to invite the goddess. People leave there houses open in the night expecting that the goddess might halt at their houses.

Other names of Goddess Mahalakshmi are Aishwarya, Padma, Sridevi, Narayana, Mangala, Jaya, Chandravadani, Kamakshi, Aditi, Surabhi, Vidya .Her Vehicle ( vahan ) is Owl.

People who wish to get blessings of Mahalakshmi Mata could recite below given Mantra 3 , 6 or 9 times and do Aarti everyday in the morning or atleast on every FRIDAY.

मंत्र : "ॐ श्री महा लक्ष्मी नमः"
"Om Sri Maha Lakshmi Namah"
Aarti
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata , Maiyaa Jaya lakshmi Mata
Tumko Nishadin Sevate , Maiyaa ji ko nishadina sevate,
Hare Vishnu Vidhata , Om jai Lakshmi Mata

Uma Rama Brahmaani , Tumahii Jaga Mata
Maiyaa Tumahii Jaga Mata,
Surya Chandrama Dhyavata ( 2) Naarada Rishi gata
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata

Durga Rupa niranjani , Sukha Sampati data
Maiya Sukh Sampati Data ,
Jo Koi tumko dhyavata (2) riddhi siddhi paata
Om jai Lakshmi Mata.

Tum Paatal nevasanii , Tuumhi Shubh daataa
Maiyaa tumhi shubh data
Karm prabhaava Prakashini ( 2) bhavanidhi ke traata
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata

Jisa Ghara Tum Rahetii , Sab Sadaguna aataa
Maiyaa Sab Sadaguna aata
Sab sumbhava ho jata ( 2) , man nahin Ghabaraataa
Om jai Lakshmi Mata

Tum Bin Yagya na hove , vastra na koi pata
Maiyaa vastra na koi pata ,
Khan pan kaa vaibhava (2) sab tumase aataa
Om Jai Laksmi Mata

Shubh Gun Mandir Sundar , Kshirodadhi Jaata
Maiyaa Kshirodadhi jaata
Ratna chaturdash tum bin ( 2) koi nahin pata
Om Jai Lakshmi mata

Maha Lakshmi ji ki Aaarti Jo Koi Jan gata
Maiyaa Jo Koi Jan Gata
Ur Anand samata (2) Pap utar jaata
Om Jai Lakshmi Mata

GAYATRI MANTRA AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE

The Vedas are widely considered to be the source of all true knowledge, the word "Veda" itself meaning "Knowledge". Gayatri Devi gave to mankind the "Gayatri Mantra", also known as the "Guru Mantra" or the "Savitri Mantra". It is one of the oldest mantras, and generally thought of as being amongst the highest and most powerful mantras of all. This mantra is therefore often referred to as "the Mother of the Vedas".
Each word of the Gayatri Mantra not only conveys meaning but also creates specific power of righteous wisdom through their utterance. The ideal times for chanting the mantra are three times a day – morning , mid day and evening. The maximum benefit of chanting the mantra is said to be obtained by chanting it 108 times. However, one may chant it for 3, 9, or 18 times when pressed for time. The syllables of the mantra are said to positively affect all the chakras or energy centres in the human body - hence, proper pronunciation is very important.
Chanting of Gayatri Mantra removes all obstacles in our path and leads to spiritual growth and development. Bhagwan Sathya Sai Baba teaches that the Gayatri Mantra "will protect you from harm wherever you are, make your intellect shine, improve your power of speech, and dispel the darkness of ignorance (Dhiyoyonah prachodayaath)".
The Gayatri Mantra is unique in that it possesses both the power of mantra and the power of prarthana ( prayer ) , and thus has both an intrinsic power (ie "mantra shakti"), through its mere utterance alone, and also an instrumental power (ie "prarthana shakti"), which is derived from the understanding of its meaning and philosophical significance. Hence, the repeated and correct chanting of the Gayatri Mantra, with proper understanding of its meaning, is believed to be of the greatest good to the individual.
The Gayatri Mantra does not belong to any particular sect of worship. It is not restricted to any community.
Summary Meaning of Gayatri Mantra
May the Almighty God illuminate our intellect to lead us along the righteous path
Full Meaning of Gayatri Mantra
Oh God! Thou art the Giver of Life, Remover of pain and sorrow,The Bestower of happiness,Oh! Creator of the Universe,May we receive thy supreme sin-destroying light,May Thou guide our intellect in the right direction.
Word By Word Meaning of Gayatri Mantra
Aum = Brahma ;

bhoor = embodiment of vital spiritual energy(pran) ;

bhuwah = destroyer of sufferings ;

swaha = embodiment of happiness ;

tat = that ;

savitur = bright like sun ;

varenyam = best choicest ;

bhargo = destroyer of sins ;

devasya = divine ;

these first nine words describe the glory of God

dheemahi = may imbibe ; pertains to meditation

dhiyo = intellect ;

yo = who ;

naha = our ;

prachodayat = may inspire!

"dhiyo yo na prachodayat" is a prayer to God

SIGNIFICANCE OF INDIAN CUSTOMS & RITUALS – III

Having explained the rationale behind Lighting a Lamp daily before the altar of the lord or before start of any auspicious functions ; having Prayer room in our houses ; Namaste greetings and prostration before parents and elders , I now explain scientifically , rationally and logically the significance of :-

I ) Offering Food to Lord before eating :-
Indians make an offering of food to the lord and later eat it as prasaada – a holy gift from the Lord. In our daily ritualistic worship ( pooja ) too we offer naivedyam ( food ) to the Lord. The lord is omnipotent and omniscient . Man is a part , while the Lord is the totality. All that we do is by his strength and knowledge alone. Hence what we receive in life as a result of our actions is really his only. We acknowledge this through the act of offering food to him.
Knowing this our entire attitude to food and the act of eating changes. The food offered will naturally be pure and the best. We share what we get with others before eating it. We do not demand , complain or criticize the quality of the food we get. We eat it cheerfully accepting it as prasaada of Lord. Anything offered to God during puja or worship falls under the category of bhoga. The word bhoga means enjoyment and pleasure. In other words, while worshipping we offer enjoyable, pleasing things, to the Deity, such as fragrant incense and flowers, nice cloth, jewels, fresh milk, delicious foods, and so on. All of these things are different forms of bhoga, enjoyment. Once these things have been offered they cease to be bhoga, but instead become prasada. The word prasada means mercy, grace, and blessings. So once an article of bhoga has been offered to God it become prasada, a form of blessings or mercy. So we might say that during worship we offer enjoyment to God and receive blessing in return. Receiving blessings is a good thing! And so we offer food to God before we eat so that our eating is not just ordinary eating but “spiritualized” eating.
Before we partake of our daily meals we first sprinkle water around the plate as an act of purification. Five morsels of food are placed on the side of the plate acknowledging the debt owed by us to the divine forces for their benign grace and protection , our ancestors for giving us their lineage and family culture , the sages as our religion and culture have been realized , attained and handed down to us by them , our fellow beings who constitute society without the support of which we could not live as we do and other living beings for serving us selflessly.
Thereafter the Lord the life force who is also within us as the five life –giving physiological functions , is being offered the food. After offering the food thus , it is eaten as prasaasda – blessed food.

II ) Fasting – Most devout Indians fast regularly or on special occasions like festivals. On fasting days they do not eat at all , eat once or eat only fruits or have a special diet of simple food.
Fasting in Sanskrit is called upavaasa. Upa means “near “ and vaasa means “ to stay “.Upavaasa “ therefore means staying near the lord , meaning the attainment of close mental proximity with the lord. Then the question is , what has upavaasa to do with food ? A lot of our time and energy is spent in procuring food items ,preparing , cooking , eating and digesting food. Certain food types make our minds dull or agitated. Hence on certain days man decides to save time and conserve his energy by eating either simple , light food or totally abstaining from eating so that the mind is alert and pure. The mind , otherwise pre-occupied by the thought of food, now entertains noble thoughts and stays with the Lord. Since it is a self-imposed form of discipline it is usually adhered to with joy.
Also every system needs a break and an overhaul to work at its best. Rest and a change of diet during fasting is very good for the digestive system and the entire body.
The more you indulge the senses , the more they make their demands , fasting helps us to cultivate control over our senses , sublimate our desires and guide our minds to be poised and at peace.
Fasting should not make us weak , irritable or create an urge to indulge latter. This happens when there is no noble goal behind fasting.
The Bhagavad-Gita urges us to eat appropriately – neither too less nor too much – yukta aahaara and to eat simple , pure and healthy food ( a saatvik diet ) even when not fasting.

Fasting for religious and spiritual reasons has been a part of human custom since pre-history. It is mentioned in the Bible, the Quran, the Mahabharata, and the Upanishads. Fasting is also practiced in many other religious traditions and spiritual practices
Fasting is a very integral part of the Hindu religion. Individuals observe different kinds of fasts based on personal beliefs and local customs. Some are listed below.
1) Some Hindus fast on certain days of the month such as Ekadasi or Purnima.
2) Certain days of the week are also set aside for fasting depending on personal belief and favorite deity. For example, devotees of Shiva tend to fast on Mondays, while devotees of Vishnu tend to fast on Fridays or Saturdays.
3) Thursday fasting is very common among the Hindus of northern India. On the Thursday fasters also worship Vrihaspati Mahadeva. They wear yellow clothes, and meals with yellow colour are preferred. Women worship the banana tree and water it.
4) Fasting during religious festivals is also very common. Common examples are Maha Shivaratri or the 9 days of Navaratri (which occurs twice a year in the months of April and October/November ). Karwa Chauth is a form of fasting unique to the northern part of India where married women undertake a fast for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of their husbands. The fast is broken after the wife views the moon through a sieve after sunset.
5) In the state of Andhra Pradesh, the month of Kaarthika, which begins with the day after Deepavali is often a period of frequent (though not necessarily continuous) fasting for some people, especially women. Common occasions for fasting during this month include Mondays (for Lord Shiva), the full-moon day of Karthika and the occasion of Naagula Chaviti.
Methods of fasting also vary widely and cover a broad spectrum. If followed strictly, the person fasting does not partake any food or water from the previous day's sunset until 48 minutes after the following day's sunrise. Fasting can also mean limiting oneself to one meal during the day and/or abstaining from eating certain food types and/or eating only certain food types.

LORD GANESHA KSHETRAS - LAKSHA VINAYAK TEMPLE

ॐ श्री गणेशाये नमः

Lord Ganesha ( गणेश ) is one of the best-known and most widely worshipped diety of Hindus. Ganesha temples are found throughout India.
Lord Ganesha is widely revered as the Remover of Obstacles and more generally as Lord of Beginnings and Lord of Obstacles (Vighnesha, Vighneshvara) and the deva of intellect and wisdom. Lord Ganesha is honoured at the start of all rituals and ceremonies.
The name Ganesha means Gana ( गण ) ie a group, multitude, or categorical system and Isha ( ईश ), meaning lord or master. Ganapati ( गणपति), a synonym for Ganesha, means gana, meaning "group", and pati, meaning "ruler" or "lord".
In Hindu mythology Lord Ganesha is considered as the creator and remover of obstacles (vighna).
Although there are many temples all across the country but there are these very famous 21 Ganesha Kshetra in India.These 21 Ganesha Kshetras are very ancient and supposedly created by God and visit to these temples gives devotees all that they desire and to overcome all the obstacles faced by them.

Laksha Vinayak Temple located in Verul , Ellora near Aurangabad is one of the main 21 Ganpati Kshetras ( Ganpati- Kshetra ) of India. The ancient name of the place is Ellapur. Kumar Kartikeya consecrated Vinayak here, before starting war with demon King Tarkasura. This temple is situated near Ellora Caves situated in Aurangabad District. Ellora caves have gained worldwide reputation for their beauty & majesty. Here, Indian art & architecture have attained their culmination, the legends from Buddha, Hindu & Jain mythologies have been immortalised here through sculptures. Total thirtyfour caves having three groups of caves. Buddhist 13, Hindu 16, Jain 5 caves. The cave number 16 called Kailas is supposed to be one of the wonders of the world carved in a single rock. The caves are declared 'World Heritage' by UNESCO and attracts visitors from all over the world. But very close to the caves are situated two very holy temples of significant ancient importance namely , Sri Ghrishneshwar, one of the twelve 'Jyotirlingas' in India and Sri Laksha Vinayak Ganesh temple one of the 21 'Adya Peeths' of Sri Ganesh. It is highly recommended that visitors to this world heritage points also visit these two temples of significant ancient importance. People visiting these two temples should consider themselves lucky.

The list of the other 20 Ganpati Kshetras of India are as follows :-
1) Moreshwar Kshetra - Amongst all the Ganpati holy places ( Teerth’s ) this is the prime one. It is located 40 miles from Pune in Maharashtra.This temple is supposed to have been established by Panchdev .
2) Dhundhiraj Kshetra is located in Kashi or Varanasi ( Uttar Pradesh ) and it is supposed to have been created by Lord Shiva.
3) Onkar Ganpati Kshetra -This famous Teerth is situated in Prayag ( Allahabad ) in Uttar प्रदेश This has been established by Ved.
4) Chintamani Kshetra - Lord Indra had created this temple to escape curse of Maharishi गौतम. This temple is situated in Kalamb ( Yavatmal )in महाराष्ट्र.
5) Shami Vighesh Kshetra is located in Aadhosh 5kms from Samner Railway station near Nagpur in Maharashtra.
6) Vallatheswar Vinayak Kshetra is located in Pali , Raigadh, Maharashtra.
7) Mangal Murti kshetra in Pariner, Nagar Javal.
8) Bhalchandra Ganesh kshetra in Gangamasla , Beed , Maharashtra.
9) Vigyan Ganesh Kshetra in Rakshashbhuvan , Beed , Maharashtra. This temple is established by Dutt Prabhu.
10) Chintamani Kshetra in Theur , Pune , Maharashtra.This temple is established by Bramhaji.
11) Sidhivinayak Kshetra its ancient name being Sidhashram is situated on Bombay – Raichur rail line 3 miles from Borivalli Railway Station in Maharashtra.This temple was established by Lord Vishnu.
12) Mahaganpati Manipur Kshetra is located in Rajangaon in Pune,Maharashtra .This temple has been created by Lord Shiva.
13) Vighanaraj kshetra is situated in Vijapur , Karnataka.
14) Kashyapashram is situated in Himalaya in Arunanchal Pradesh.
15) Muladhari is situated in Ganeshpur , Bengal.
16) Girijatmak is situated in Lenadhri , Junnar near Pune in Maharashtra.This has been created by Parvatiji.
17) Pravaal Ganesh , Dharanidhar is located in Androl , Padmalaya , Jalgaon in Maharashtra.
18) Rajsadan kshetra is located in Rajur ,Jalna in Maharashtra.
19) Ashapoorak is located in Namalgaon , Beed in Maharashtra.
20) Sudha Svet Vighanesh Kshetra is located in Tanjor , Kumbhakornam , Tamil Nadu.

One should Endeavour to visit these Kshetras atleast once in their life time to overcome all the obstacles in their life.

ॐ गन गणपतये नमः

AUSPICIOUS / INAUSPICIOUS TIME OF THE DAY - MUHURATA

In Vedic Astrology , special importance is given on Muhurata . The ancient sages believed that any work commenced at a suitable and appropriate moment always yields favorable results.
The rule of selecting appropriate muhurata are applied even today. Before commencing any work, it is necessary to select the proper "Muhurata", so that obstacles are eliminated and success assured.

Whilst it is mandatory to select most auspicious day and time for important events like marriage , opening of company etc , it is important that we bear in mind the good and bad period of the day to improve our success rate in even normal things like starting of journey , starting of important discussions & meetings etc.

The most important period of the day is Rahu Kaal and it represents inauspicious period of the day. As per Hindu Astrology, Rahu Kaal occurs between sunrise and sunset for about one and half hours everyday. Rahu Kaal for each day in a week is different and is calculated basis sunrise and sunset time. No auspicious work is to be initiated or journey undertaken during this time since it will not yield a positive or constructive result. It is believed that Rahu Kaal will not affect the work, journey or trade already in progress however we should not sign any major documents or start a new enterprise in this period . The sale or purchase of any assets is also discouraged during Rahu Kaal. It is a very negative period to be shunned for all auspicious and beneficial activities. It is very religiously followed in Southern Part's of India.

Similarly there is the 'Gulika-kaal' (or simply 'Gulik') which is also a period of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes duration every day of the week. This time duration is ruled by 'Shani' (Saturn). 'Gulik Kala' is considered a good period to undertake new projects.
Also there is Yamaganda Kaal for one and half hours during the day which is not considered good time for undertaking any project.

This time is calculated by dividing 'Dinamaan' into eight equal parts (each of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes). The 'Dinamaan' is the total duration of time between local sunrise and sunset on any given day. I am giving below the popularly known timings for these, for the different days of the week and these are indicative times considering notional sun rise at 6.00 am and notional sun set at 6.00 pm. Based on the actual sun rise and sun set time of the day, the Rahukala / Gulika Kala / Yamaganada kala timings have to be suitably corrected. (Sun rise and sun set times are not same for all days of the year even in the same place). This period will vary with different latitudes by a few minutes.

Rahu Kaal (Not Good )
Monday 7:30 – 9:00 Tuesday 15:00 – 16:30 Wednesday 12:00 – 13:30
Thursday 13:30 – 15:00 Friday 10:30 – 12:00 Saturday 9:00 – 10:30
Sunday 16:30 – 18:00
Gulika Kaal ( Good )
Monday 13:30 – 15:00 Tuesday 12:00 – 13:30 Wednesday 10:30 – 12:00
Thursday 9:00 – 10:30 Friday 7:30 – 9:00 Saturday 6:00 – 7:30
Sunday 15:00 – 16:30
Yamaganda kaal ( Not Good)
Monday 10:30 – 12:00 Tuesday 9:00 – 10:30 Wednesday 7:30 – 9:00
Thursday 6:00 – 7:30 Friday 15:00 – 16:30 Saturday 13:30 – 15:00
Sunday 12:00 – 13:30

SIGNIFICANCE OF INDIAN CUSTOMS & RITUALS – II

Having explained the rationale behind Lighting a Lamp daily before the altar of the lord or before start of any auspicious functions as well as having Prayer room in our houses , I now explain scientifically , rationally and logically the significance of :-

I ) NAMASTE GREETINGS –
Indians greet each other with Namaste ( नमस्ते ). The two palms are put together in front of the chest , and the head bows whilst saying the word namaste. This greeting is for all people viz young , of our own age , old , friends and even strangers.In Sanskrit Namaste means – I bow to you – my greetings , salutations or prostration to you. The real meeting of people is the meeting of their minds. When we greet another person with namaste it literally means “may our minds meet “ , indicated by the folded palms placed before the chest.The bowing down of the head is a gracious form of extending love and humility.
The spiritual meaning is even deeper.The life force , the divinity , the self or the lord in me is the same in all. Recognizing this oneness with the meeting of the palms , we salute with head bowed the divinity in person we meet.That is why we sometimes close our eyes as we do namaste to a revered person or the Lord – as if to look within.The gesture is often accompanied by words like “ Ram Ram “ , “ Jai Shri Krishna “ , Jai Shri ram “ etc – indicating the recognition of this divinity.
When we know the significance of namaste , our greeting does not remain just a superficial gesture or word but paves the way for a deeper communion with another in an atmosphere of love and respect.

II ) Prostration before Parents & Elders –
Indians prostrate before their parents , elders , teachers and noble soul by touching their feet. The elder in turn blesses by placing his or her hand on or over our head. Prostration is done daily , when we meet elders and particularly on important occasions like beginning of new task , birthdays , festivals , new year etc. Touching the feet in prostration is a sign of respect for the age , maturity , nobility and divinity that our elders personify. It symbolizes our recognition of their selfless love for us and the sacrifices they have done for our welfare. It is a way of humbly acknowledging the greatness of another. This tradition reflects strong family ties , which has been one of India’s enduring strengths.
The good wishes and blessings of elders are highly valued in India. We prostrate to seek them.Good thoughts create positive vibrations.Good wishes coming from heart full of love , divinity and nobility have tremendous strength. When we prostrate with humility and respect , we invoke the good wishes and blessings of elders , which flow in form of positive energy to envelope us.
The different forms of showing respects are :-
Pratuthana (प्रतुथाना ): Rising to welcome
Namaskara (नमस्कार) : Paying homage in the form of namaste
Upasangrahan (उपसंग्रहण ): Touching the feet of elders or teachers
Shaashtaanga (शाष्टांग ): Prostrating fully with the feet , knees , stomach , chest , forehead and arms touching the ground in front of the elders
Pratyabivaadana ( प्रत्याबिवादाना ) : Returning a greeting.

SIGNIFICANCE OF INDIAN CUSTOMS & RITUALS - I

INTRODUCTION – Customs and rituals are part and parcel of Sanatan (सनातन ) Dharm . Sanatan Dharm means something which is Eternal and it does not relate to a particular religion or sect. Sanatan being something which cannot be destroyed by fire , weapons , water , air and which is present in all living being . Dharm means the way of life which is the total of all customs and rituals. Rituals are to be followed based on understanding their merits and only after self experience these could be propagated and one need not follow these rituals blindly.

Rituals are followed for :-
1. Psychological and Physiological health and long life.
2. Prosperity and wealth
3. Strong family and social bondage
4. For improving personality and outlook towards life.

But it is important to understand scientifically , rationally and logically the meaning of each and every Ritual and thereafter follow them systematically .

In series of articles , I would give reasons why few importance rituals came into existence. One needs to practice these only after being convinced about its significance. After following them , if one feels , the benefit , it could be preached to others in family , friends and neighborhood.

I ) LIGHTING A LAMP
In almost every Indian home a lamp is lit daily before the altar of the lord. In some houses it is lit at dawn and in some houses twice a day- at dawn and dusk and in few it is maintained continuously – Akhand Deep ( अखंड दीप ).

All auspicious functions commence with lighting of the lamp which is often maintained throughout the occasion.

Light symbolizes knowledge and darkness – ignorance. The lord is the source of knowledge and illuminator of all knowledge. Hence light is worshiped as the lord himself.
Knowledge removes ignorance just as light removes darkness. Also knowledge is a lasting inner wealth by which all outer achievement can be accomplished. Hence we light the lamp to bow down to knowledge as the greatest of all forms of wealth.
The oil or ghee in the lamp symbolizes our vaasanas or negative tendencies and the wick the ego. When lit by spiritual knowledge the vaasanas get slowly exhausted and the ego too finally perishes. The flame of a lamp always burns upwards. Similarly we should acquire such knowledge as to take us towards higher ideals. Due to these reason lighting a lamp cannot be substituted by lighting an incandescent bulb or a tube light.

Whilst lighting the lamp we must pray :-
दीपज्योती परब्रह्म
दीप सर्व तमोपहः
दीपेन साध्यते शरण
संध्या दीपो नमस्तुते

I prostate to the dawn / dusk lamp , whose light is the provider of knowledge ( the supreme lord ) which removes the darkness of ignorance by which all can be achieved in life.

II ) PRAYER ROOM :-
Most Indian homes have a prayer room or altar where we start our day by praying to almighty. A lamp is lit and the lord worshiped each day.Other spiritual practices like japa , meditation , reading of the scriptures , prayers and devotional singing etc are also done here. Special prayers are done here on auspicious occasions like birthdays , anniversaries and festivals. All members of the family pray the lord here and taking his blessings. The family assembles here not only during any difficulty , hardship , pain or trouble but also during joy , happiness or pleasure.The lord is the entire creator and hence he is the true owner of the house we live in .The prayer room is the master room of the house. We are the earthly occupants of his property – this notion rids us of false pride and possessiveness. The ideal attitude is to consider lord as the true owner of house and we as care takers or lord should be considered as an important guest of the house and a prayer room should be created and it should be kept neat and tidy and well decorated at all times.
Lord is all pervading and a prayer room in house serves as a constant reminder of this to us । Sacred thoughts and positive vibrations pervade the place and influence the minds of those present in the house. Even when one is tired or agitated by just sitting in the prayer room for a while one feels calm , rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted.

ॐ नमः शिवाय

TAKING PRAYERS TO SHIRDI

जय साईं राम

Jai Sai Ram

श्री सचिदानंद समर्थ सदगुरू साईनाथ महाराज की जय

ॐ राजाधिराज योगिराज परब्रम्ह साईनाथ महाराज की जय

It is my ardent feeling that we have to see God in every human being and by serving other’s we can achieve extreme form of pleasure within ourselves which is far far greater than material gains possible. With this as background, I wish to share my recent experience of taking prayers of Sai devotees from all over the world to Shirdi and the extreme pleasure which we felt by doing this service.

We came to Aurangabad in March 2008 and since then have visited Shirdi four times for divine darshan of Sadguru Sai Baba. We consider this our profound privilege that we got call from Sai Nath so often to visit Shirdi for Darshan of Sai Samadhi, Dwarikamai and Chavadi and we hope that we continue to get frequent Sai Darshan in future also .We are members of two email groups of Sai Baba Devotees namely saibabaofindia@yahoogroups.com and saibabanews@yahoogroups.com through which we have the pleasure of knowing about activities of various groups of Sai devotees across the globe on a daily basis. Through this group we came to know that there are many Sai devotees who wish to visit Shirdi for divine darshan of Sai Nath Prabhu however due to various reasons are unable to do so and wish that people visiting Shirdi carry their prayers to Shirdi.

We also desired to undertake this service and accordingly in our last two visits of 31st January 2009 and 14th March 2009 we had requested Ms Hetal Patil to put up on her blog this information for devotees to send their prayers individually to us via emails. We received prayers of 85 devotees in our visit on 31st January and 209 devotees on 14th March. These devotees were spread across the globe.


With divine blessings of Baba I had very good darshan at Shirdi with my family on both the occasions. We had carried print outs of prayers of devotees with us and we placed them along with a coconut on the lotus feet of Sai Baba. I am sure Sai Nath Prabhu would grant prayers of all devotees.

The pleasure of doing this service cannot be explained in words and it gives tremendous sense of satisfaction to us. We are absolutely certain that every time we visit Shirdi we would be writing to Hetalji for informing devotees to pass their prayers to us, which we would undertake upon ourselves to place on Sai Nath Prabhu’s lotus feet. The service which Ms Hetal is doing is much much greater than what we are doing and may Sai Nath give her the strength and determination to carry it always as without her it would not have been possible for us to do this service.

We got this idea of taking prayers along with us through the above mentioned email group and I am hopeful many people by reading this article would like to do this service. Anyone desiring to undertake this service could write to Ms Hetal about a week before their date of visit so that she can in turn inform devotees to send their urgent prayers to the visitor via email. One could write with their desire to carry prayer with proposed date of travel to Ms Hetal at hetal.patil@saimail.com and I am sure she will do the rest and one can hope to get prayers of many many devotees spread across the globe and experience the pleasure of doing this divine service.

ॐ साईं राम

Om Sai Ram

SATHYA SAI BABA BLESSINGS – OWN EXPERIENCE

This is the first time that we are venturing to mention our own experience on how we received profound blessings of Bhagwan Shri Satya Sai Baba .

This incident happened on 9th September 2004 , it was a Thursday – Baba’s day. We were in Bangalore.

I would like to tell that we were in Bangalore from July 2002 as my husband was working here and before this incident we had visited Prashanti Nilayam , Puttaparthi thrice and had extreme pleasure of divine darshan of Bhagwan Shri Sathya Sai Baba. Once we had gone to Whitefield in Bangalore , for Darshan of Sathya Sai Baba. During one of these Darshan’s , one of the speakers ( a Vice Chancellor of some university in Andhra Pradesh…not sure of the name of the speaker and the university ) narrated a personal experience of how Baba had helped save life of a young girl from serious heart ailment which even the highly specialized doctors had given up on. He had narrated few other incidents which had made me think deep into the meaning of life and our actions. There after we had brought a photo of Bhagwan Shri Satya Sai Baba and we do daily prayer of Baba since then. We can see the lotus feet of Baba in that photo and by daily prayer we get immense pleasure and blessings of Baba. Through daily darshan of Baba and meditation we have tried to inculcate the basic teachings and noble principles that Baba wishes that all his devotees follow .Some of the principles that has had deep impression on us are -
1) Mathrudevo Bhava ( Revere your mother )
2) Pitrudevo Bhava ( Revere your father )
3) Acharyadevo Bhava ( Revere your teacher )
4) Atithidevo Bhava ( Treat everyone who comes to your door / house as guest and form of god , even if it is someone who is poor , downtrodden or has come for “bhiksha “ , if you have nothing to give atleast give a glass of water but never insult that person )
5) Cultivate Human Values of Sathya ( Truth i.e Love in Speech ) , Dharma ( Right Conduct i.e. Love in action ) , Santhi ( Peace ie. Love in though ) , Prema ( Love ) and Ahmisa ( Non – violence i.e Love in Understanding ) . The human values are divine and anything can be achieved with these qualities.
6) Help Ever , Hurt Never
7) Serve man until you see God in all men.
8) Two principles to be happy in life - Forget the harm that anyone has done to you, and forget the good that you have done to others.

Coming back to the incident , my husband was not happy at work and was looking to change his company and he was trying for it for couple of months. This incident happened on 9th September 2004 , which happened to be a Thursday. He wrote a letter to Bhagwan Shri Satya Sai Baba writing about his unhappiness at work and desire to change company . He went to post the letter to a post office near our house , he took stamp from the post office and after affixing the stamp as he was posting the letter in the letter box his mobile phone rang and he got a call from a job consultant and with divine blessings of Bhagwan in the next ten days three rounds of interviews got fixed and he got a much better job and he could change the company that he worked in. Not only this within this period he got three jobs in hand to choose from. All this thing happened so quickly and we can say this is one of the ways in which Bhagwan saves , helps his devotees when they are in need .

If one has belief in Sathya Sai baba and follows his noble principles Baba will surely help and as Bhagwan himself says – “ Why worry when I am there “.

Although Bhagwan Shri Sathya Sai Baba is Omniscient ( all knowing ) but if still a disciple is in need of Baba’s help one can write letter to Baba , preferably on a Thursday and can post to the following address :-
Bhagwan Shri Sathya Sai baba ,
Anantpur District ,
Prashanti Nilayam ,
Andhra Pradesh – 515134

“ HELP EVER HURT NEVER “

MRITYUNJAYA MANTRA

Introduction -

It is said whoever does Mritunjaya Mantra Jap everyday becomes free from all diseases and achieves long life. The story behind how this mantra came into existence is as follows – There was a boy who was blessed with long life by Rishis and Munis , however it turned out latter that he had only 10 years of total life. Rishis advised the boy to do Maha Mritunjaya Jap everyday. The boy started doing the Jap with full divinity and following all the rituals. Time passed by and one day Yumdoot came to take his life ( Soul / Atma ) but the Yums could not take the boys life because he was deeply engrossed in Maha Mritunjaya Mantra Jap. Since they returned empty handed , Yumraj himself came to take the boys life . The boy got scared by seeing the fearful face of Yumraj and he embraced the Shiv Linga. At that moment Lord Shiva appeared from Shiva Linga and told Yumraj not to take life of the boy and he further told Yumraj that he should not go to anyone who does regular practice of this mantra. Yumraj returned from there without taking life of the boy and since then Yumraj is following Lord Shiva’s advise and does not go to take life of whoever practices Maha Mritunjaya Mantra.
The Mantra
Aum Trayambakam YajaamaheySugandhim Pusti VardhanamUrvaarukamiva BandhanaathMrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning: We worship the three eyed Lord Shiva . May the lord liberate me from fear of death and make me immortal.
When , How Many Mrityunjaya Mantra Jap
As stated above Mritunjaya Mantra is very miraculous and has the power of changing the Kaal of time.As per Sastra’s it should be used in following conditions :-

• When there is an epidemic or spread of major disease in the society – One Crore Mantra Jap


• For freeing one from major illness – One Lakh twenty Five thousand Mantra Jap ( 1.25 Lakh )


• For success in travel and to remove fear of bad news – One Thousand Mantra Jap


• For improving happiness in family & getting wealth – 1.25 Lakh Mantra Jap


• For freeing from risk of sudden death – Ten Thousand Jap

For achieving desired result following things are important –
· Keep a photo or idol of Lord Shiv in front before starting the Mantra Jap.
· Face East while doing the Mantra Jap.
· Keep a lamp of Pure Ghee ( cow milk ghee) lit all the time during Jap.
· For counting the Mantra use Chandan Mala or Rudraksha Mala.
· Use seat ( Asan) of wool for sitting during Jap
· Have only fruit meal one time of the day.
· Each word of the Mantra should be pronounced clearly , properly and in low pitch.
· Sleep on floor during this period.
· If possible follow maun ( Mute ) vrat during this period.
· If required take a Pandit for doing rituals on starting and ending day of completing the Jap.

With the blessings of Lord Shiva any devotee following this Jap religiously would surely achieve the desired wish.
“ OM NAMAH SHIVAYA “

GEMSTONES

Gemstones are used to either strengthen or balance the energies of the planets i.e. strengthen weak planets to create good effect, or further strengthen already strong planets, so that their impact is more pronounced. All good and bad effects multiply at the same time and therefore there is a need for balance.

The Gemstones have to be of specific weight (in carats, or in ratti). They are worn either in gold or in silver in appropriate finger, when the planet is in own/friendly sign, on the planet’s day of the week, in the morning and after chanting the ruling god’s name 108 times. It is important that these gems do not have any flaw as much as possible and should be of good quality.

There are some alternatives to wearing these gemstones :-
1. There are cheaper alternatives available in the market. e.g. one can replace Pukhraj with Yellow Zircon for Jupiter. Clear Zircon can be substituted for a diamond etc.

2. One can choose to worship the ruling deity .This is a very good alternate to wearing gemstones

RUDRAKSHA FOR EVERYONE

“OM NAMAH SHIVAAY “

ॐ नमः शिवाय

Rudraksha is said to be a form of Lord Shiva. There are various sayings about origin of Rudraksha but what is important is that it is considered pure , pious and it is dearly loved by Lord Shiva. A person who is true devotee of Lord Shiva and wishes to get blessings of Lord Shiva must wear Rudraksha mala . It is worn for destroying all the sins that one has committed. Rudraksha is such a divine weapon that by wearing it one can get all the four type of sidhi’s namely ज्ञान ( knowledge ) , कार्य ( Work) , धन ( Wealth ) and अन्नापूर्णा ( Food ) .All main deities like Lord Shiva , Vishnu , Ganesh , Surya , Parvati are pleased by seeing a person who wears Rudraksha and shower their blessings.It is said that while Gems which are worn nowadays by many has the power of providing positive energy , Rudraksha not only provides positive energy but also helps in removing or over powering accumulated negative energy . There is nothing more beneficial then wearing Rudraksha and it is considered superior to gems and stones. Rudraksha mala is also considered best for muttering prayers ( Jap ) and particularly so if it used for meditation of Lord Shiva.

However there are few important things to be noted while choosing / wearing Rudraksha mala :-
1) It should be a natural bead and should be original and it should not be broken
2) Smaller the Rudraksha bead better it is .
3) If Rudraksha has naturally occurring hole in it , it is considered superior to the one in which hole has been made artificially.
4) One who wears Rudraksha should not consume Liquor , Non vegetarian food and if possible even onions and garlic.
5) One should choose which Rudraksha to wear basis Birth Sign ( Janam Rashi ).

Choosing which Rudraksha to wear :-
1) For Students – 2 beads 4 Mukhi , two beads 5 Mukhi and 1 bead 6 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn to improve memory power , developing intellect , developing positive attitude and interest in studies.
2) For Improving Health – 2 beads 3 Mukhi , 3 beads 5 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn to regulate blood pressure , remove negative thoughts , remove laziness and improve mental determination.
3) For Employees – 1 bead 5 Mukhi , 2 beads 7 mukhi , 1 bead 8 Mukhi , 1 bead Ganesh Rudraksha should be worn for success at work and removes impediments at work.
4) For Business Persons - 1 bead of 11 Mukhi or 12 Mukhi or 13 Mukhi , 2 beads of 7 mukhi , 1 bead of 8 Mukhi , 1 bead of Ganesh Rudraksha should be worn for success in business.
5) For Domestic Peace – 1 bead of Gauri Shankar , 1 bead of 2 Mukhi and 2 beads of 5 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn to improve domestic life and co-ordination and love amongst husband and wife. It is also considered good for those looking for good marriage partners.
6) For Achieving Perfection ( Siddhi ) - 1 bead of 14 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn in a Mala of 54 numbers of small 5 mukhi Rudraksha should be worn to improve internal strength and get ability to predict future successfully .
7) For Scorpio ( Vrischik ) and Aries ( Mesh ) Signs – One bead of 3 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn for enhancing luck.
8) For Gemini ( Mithun ) and Virgo ( Kanya ) – One bead of 4 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn.
9) For Taurus ( Vrish ) and Libra ( Tula ) – One bead of 6 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn.
10) For Aquarius ( Kumbh ) and Capricorn ( Makar ) – One bead of 7 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn .
11) For Cancer ( Kark ) – One bead of 2 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn.
12) For a person who is not sure of his Birth Sign / Rashi – One mala of 108 beads of 5 Mukhi Rudraksha should be worn.

ADBHUT SHRI SAI VRAT

I am going to write about this very powerful Shri Sai Vrat which if done on nine ( 9 ) Thursdays it can help fulfill all wishes and desires of devotees .It can help in getting fame , prosperity and relieve one of all pains and troubles. But what is most important that this Vrat is observed properly following all the rules with complete trust , faith and devotion towards Sadguru Sai Baba.

Shri Sai Vrat Rules
I am giving below the rules which devotees must read carefully , understand them and then follow them :-
1) This Vrat can be done by men , women and children.
2) This Vrat can be followed by person of any caste , religion or social standing without any discrimination.
3) This is a very miraculous Vrat which needs to be followed on Nine ( 9 ) Thursdays.
4) This Vrat can be started on any Thursday with full faith and divinity after praying to Sadguru Sai Baba for the work for which the Vrat is undertaken.
5) On each of these Thursdays , in Morning or Evening , Sai Vrat Katha should be read and meditation of Sai Baba should be done. Before this Sai Baba’s photo or idol should be cleaned and kept on a yellow cloth , Tilak of Chandan and kumkum should be put on the photo / idol , yellow flowers should be put on Baba’s feet or yellow flower garland should be put on Sai Baba’s photo or idol. and a diya ( Deepak ) should be lit. Prasad after Pooja should be distributed.
6) This Vrat can be kept by eating fruits or eating food one time only but one should never keep full day fasting without eating anything.
7)If possible , on these 9 Thursdays devotees following this Vrat should go to Sai Temple near their house.
8) During this Vrat if women are going through their menses or if any Thursday is missed due to any unavoidable reason then this Thursday should not be counted but the Vrat can continued from next Thursday onwards.
9) On the Ninth ( 9th ) Thursday the Vrat should be concluded by observing following rites –
1. Five ( 5 ) poor persons should be fed.
2. Distribute 5 , 11 , 21 books of Sai Vrat to your relatives , friends and neighbors to popularize this Vrat.These books which are for distribution should be kept in Pooja before distribution.

Sai Baba devotees have a strong belief that Baba fulfills all the desires of anyone who does this Vrat according to the above procedure and concludes it in the manner as stated above.

Sai Baba Vrat Story

A woman named Kokila lived in a city with her husband Maheshbhai. Both of them had love for each other. But Maheshbhai’s was very quarrelsome. Kokila was a religious woman and she had immense faith in God and she suffered everything without uttering a single word. Gradually her husband’s business declined and the earnings were also negligible. Now Maheshbhai did not go anywhere and stayed back at home. Moreover he was drawn to wrong path. Now his quarrelsome nature increased two fold.It was afternoon time. An old man came and stood in front of the house of Kokila. He had a strange glow on his face. He demanded food. Kokila gave food to the old man and folded her hands before him. The old man said May Sai Bless you with happiness. Kokila said there is no happiness in my fate and narrated everything about her unhappy life to the old man.The old man explained the Vrat for 9 Thursdays as stated above and advised her to observe it and said Sai Baba will fulfill all your desires. But you must have deep faith in Sai Baba . If anybody does this Vrat and duly performs its concluding ceremony, Sai Baba fulfills his/her desires.Kokila did the Vrat for 9 Thursdays, distributed Sai Vrat books and fed the poor on 9th Thursday. Now all the quarrels in her home had disappeared. There was complete happiness as Maheshbhai’s nature had changed. His business now came back on track. In a short period, their economic condition also improved and everything became fine. Both husband and wife started living their life happily. One day Kokila’s brother-in-law and his wife came to their home from Surat. Casually talking they told Kokila that their children do not study well. They have failed in exams. Kokila told them about the Sai Baba Vrat.
After few days Kokila received a letter from her co-sister in law that her children did Sai Vrat and have started studying well. She herself did Sai Baba Vrat and distributed the books in her husband’s office. She added that due to Sai Baba’s Vrat her friend’s daughter’s marriage was fixed in a very nice family. Moreover her neighbour’s ornament box was lost somewhere. As a result of Sai Baba Vrat someone came and returned the box after two months. In this way such miracles happened

OM SRI SAI MANTRA MALA

With blessings of Param Guru Sai Baba , I am giving below Sadguru Sai Baba’s Divine Mantra Mala , which should be recited every day morning by keeping a Sai Photo or Murti in front .These mantra should be recited with divine love and faith on Baba. This is a simple but very powerful mala of 108 mantra’s recitation of which gives Siddhi and blessings of Sadguru Sai Baba.After reciting this mantra mala once , any one of the mantra can be chosen and which should be reflected upon in our thought through out the day.

OM Shri Sai Ganeshaye Namah : ll 1 ll
OM Satguru Sai Nathaye Namah : ll 2 ll
OM Jagad Guru Sai Nathaye Namah : ll 3 ll
OM Paramguru Sai Nathaye Namah : ll 4 ll
OM Dev Guru Sai Nathaye Namah : ll 5 ll
OM Sai Shiv Shaktiyaye Namah : ll 6 ll
OM Sai Sarva-shaktiyaye Namah : ll 7 ll
OM Sai Sarva-vayapakaye Namah : ll 8 ll
OM Sai Sarva-athmaye Namah : ll 9 ll
OM Sai Alakh Niranjanaye Namah : ll 10 ll
OM Sai Sarva-sakshiyaye Namah : ll 11 ll
OM Sai Sarva-antaryamiaye Namah : ll 12 ll
OM Sai Paripurnathaye Namah : ll 13 ll
OM Sai Adi Shaktiyaye Namah : ll 14 ll
OM Sai Anadi Shaktiyaye Namah : ll 15 ll
OM Sai Ramaye Namah : ll 16 ll
OM Sai Trilokinathaye Namah : ll 17 ll
OM Sai Traikaldashiyaye Namah : ll 18 ll
OM Sai Govindaye Namah : ll 19 ll
OM Sai Sachidanand Swaropaye Namah : ll 20 ll
OM Sai Bhakt Rakshkaye Namah : ll 21 ll
OM Sai ParamAnand Swaropaye Namah : ll 22 ll
OM Sai Mahadurgaye Namah : ll 23 ll
OM Sai Akarshan Shaktiyaye Namah : ll 24 ll
OM Sai Agyan Vinashkaye Namah : ll 25 ll
OM Sai Yogi-swaraye Namah : ll 26 ll
OM Sai Purshotam Purushaye Namah : ll 27 ll
OM Sai Shankaraye Namah : ll 28 ll
OM Sai Sukh Swaropaiye Namah : ll 29 ll
OM Sai Kalyan Swaropaiye Namah : ll 30 ll
OM Sai Jag Aadharaye Namah : ll 31 ll
OM Sai Raghunandanaye Namah : ll 32 ll
OM Sai Dev Rakshakaye Namah : ll 33 ll
OM Sai Asur Sanhariyaye Namah : ll 34 ll
OM Sai Karm-Fal-Dataye Namah : ll 35 ll
OM Sai Datatraye Namah : ll 36 ll
OM Sai Karta Purushaye Namah : ll 37 ll
OM Sai Deenbandhuaye Namah : ll 38 ll
OM Sai Bhagat-Bhay-hariyaye Namah : ll 39 ll
OM Sai Dukh Nivaranaye Namah : ll 40 ll
OM Sai Akkal Purushaye Namah : ll 41 ll
OM Sai Aadi Narayanaye Namah : ll 42 ll
OM Sai Lila-dhariyaye Namah : ll 43 ll
OM Sai Jan-hit Kariyaye Namah : ll 44 ll
OM Sai Shiv-Sambhuaye Namah : ll 45 ll
OM Sai Aappate Harnaye Namah : ll 46 ll
OM Sai Gita Swaropaye Namah : ll 47 ll
OM Sai Madhvaye Namah : ll 48 ll
OM Sai Padmanabhaye Namah : ll 49 ll
OM Sai Jagat Karanaye Namah : ll 50 ll
OM Sai Sadgate Dataye Namah : ll 51 ll
OM Sai Mahakalikaye Namah : ll 52 ll
OM Sai Karuna-Sindhuaye Namah : ll 53 ll
OM Sai Sarve-svaraye Namah : ll 54 ll
OM Sai Jagdishvaraye Namah : ll 55 ll
OM Sai Akalshaktiyaye Namah : ll 56 ll
OM Sai Patitpavanaye Namah : ll 57 ll
OM Sai Vishvanathaye Namah : ll 58 ll
OM Sai Ved Swaropaye Namah : ll 59 ll
OM Sai Sukh Dataye Namah : ll 60 ll
OM Sai Hari Narayanaye Namah : ll 61 ll
OM Sai Satya-Swaropaye Namah : ll 62 ll
OM Sai Sarva-Samarnay Namah : ll 63 ll
OM Sai Jyoti-Swaropaye Namah : ll 64 ll
OM Sai Mahalakshmiyaye Namah : ll 65 ll
OM Sai Hari-Govindaye Namah : ll 66 ll
OM Sai Akhand Jyotiyaye Namah : ll 67 ll
OM Sai Onkar Swaropaye Namah : ll 68 ll
OM Sai Maha-saraswataye Namah : ll 69 ll
OM Sai Maya Vinashkaye Namah : ll 70 ll
OM Sai Venkateshvaraye Namah : ll 71 ll
OM Sai Hari Vithalaye Namah : ll 72 ll
OM Sai Moh Vinashkaye Namah : ll 73 ll
OM Sai Vipatte Bhanjanaye Namah : ll 74 ll
OM Sai Bhakti Dataye Namah : ll 75 ll
OM Sai Mukti Dataye Namah : ll 76 ll
OM Sai Gyan Dataye Namah : ll 77 ll
OM Sai Gopi-vallabhaye Namah : ll 78 ll
OM Sai Bhavtarkaye Namah : ll 79 ll
OM Sai Sarvapriyaye Namah : ll 80 ll
OM Sai Apradh Hartaye Namah : ll 81 ll
OM Sai Thakuraye Namah : ll 82 ll
OM Sai Kripa Sagaraye Namah : ll 83 ll
OM Sai Mangalkari Devaye Namah : ll 84 ll
OM Sai Amangalhari Devaye Namah : ll 85 ll
OM Sai Amrit Sindhuaye Namah : ll 86 ll
OM Sai Shanti Dataye Namah : ll 87 ll
OM Sai Chandramouli-swaraye Namah : ll 88 ll
OM Sai Jagat Rupaye Namah : ll 89 ll
OM Sai Atma Jyotiyaye Namah : ll 90 ll
OM Sai Lakshminarayanaye Namah : ll 91 ll
OM Sai Abhed Shaktiyaye Namah : ll 92 ll
OM Sai Vishva-Athmaye Namah : ll 93 ll
OM Sai Param-Atmaye Namah : ll 94 ll
OM Sai Bhakt Vatsalaye Namah : ll 95 ll
OM Sai Agni Rupaye Namah : ll 96 ll
OM Sai Gaytriaye Namah : ll 97 ll
OM Sai Maha-ambikaye Namah : ll 98 ll
OM Sai Dharm Rakshaye Namah : ll 99 ll
OM Sai Siddhi-dataye Namah : ll 100 ll
OM Sai Shriddhi-dataye Namah : ll 101 ll
OM Sai Nirdhan-Rakshakaye Namah : ll 102 ll
OM Sai Sadhu-Rakshakaye Namah : ll 103 ll
OM Sai Chintanashakaye Namah : ll 104 ll
OM Sai Anand Murtaye Namah : ll 105 ll
OM Sai Bhagye-Vidhataye Namah : ll 106 ll
OM Sai Hari-haraye Namah : ll 107 ll
OM Sai Parbramhaye Namah : ll 108 ll

“” OM Shri Sai “”

SHRI SADGURU KISANGIRI BABA –DEVGADH , AHMEDNAGAR , MAHARASHTRA

Maharashtra is known as the land of saints. Ahmednagar district is blessed with presence of four of leading divine souls namely Sadguru Sai Baba of Shirdi, Shani Dev of Shingnapur, Saint Gyaneshwar of Newasa and Sadguru Kisangiri Baba of Shri Chetra Devgadh.
It is my profound privilege and with immense blessings of Sadguru Kisangiri Baba, I undertake upon myself to publish details of Devgadh on my blog for the benefit and knowledge of people across the world. Everything good in this presentation is by the divine blessings of Sadguru Kisangiri Baba and all the mistakes are owned by me.
Situated on the way to Shingnapur, at Devgadh, is the famous temple of Vishnu Bhagwan, Datta Prabhu, built by Kisangiri Baba. This temple is very clean and well developed. The way surroundings are maintained here, one feels refreshed at the first sight. Situated at the banks of Pravara River and surrounded by thousands of trees is this temple of Devgadh. By the visit to this pious place devotees achieve extreme pleasure.
Like Sai Baba of Shirdi, Kisangiri Baba was a great man who held miraculous powers and used them for the betterment of the mankind.
Born in 1907, in the house of a family of Bheel Caste at Godhegaon, situated at the banks of Pravara River, Kisangiri Baba was a bright soul since his early days. He was pious and kind. He loved humans and animals alike. Sadguru Kisangiri Baba followed life long chastity (bramhcharya).
He began showing his miraculous powers right since his tender age.
When Kisangiri baba was a child, he used to eat food cooked only by his mother. When he grew up he started eating food cooked only by his own hands. He was very compassionate towards animals. He had a habit of rescuing fish caught by his elder brothers. At the age of 8 years Baba showed his unusual abilities with his practice of making Shiv Lingas every night after working hard in the fields. At the riverbank he would make Shiv Lingas from sand and plunge twigs around it in the sand. After the structure is complete he would pour water from the river over it and the structure made from sand would dissolve. Baba would again make the Shiv Linga, and again pour water over it. He would stop only when the structure took in the water and stood firm. When this happened the twigs would start burning, spreading a pleasant aroma like incense stick (agarbathi). He continued these Shiv linga prayers unto age of 12 years.
When Baba was a twelve-year-old boy he spotted a large dying tree. He started watering this tree everyday bringing water from the river by a pumpkin. The tree came alive after few days. This incident stunned villagers.

Destitute Kisanji decided to leave for pilgrimage of Char Dham. He left with four rupees given to him by his father. He returned within fifteen days. People simply did not believe that he had visited all the places, for the time he had spent was not sufficient to make such a long journey. But when he told all the signs and gave all the proofs that he had visited, people began admiring him. He even returned four rupees that his father had given him. It was clear to the villagers that this young child was a great soul and they began calling him Kisan Baba.

When Kisan Baba became twenty years old, he began asking for food from people, who gave it to him willingly. Kisan Baba used to share his food with animals and fish. Wherever he went asking for food, people would be relieved from their troubles. Destitute would find jobs and sick people health. People got a savior in form of Kisan Baba.
Sitting beneath a tree at the banks of Pravara River, Kisan Baba started worshiping god Datta. He liked the place so much that with the help of people he started developing it. After fifteen years the uneven land was leveled and the work of construction began. People started giving Kisan Baba money along with food. No architect was ever appointed and the temple of Devgadh was built from the imagination of Kisangiri Baba.

During his lifetime Kisangiri Baba performed many wonders and taught people humanity. In his final days Baba imparted his responsibilities to a twenty-five year old disciple Bhaskarji, who is now known as Bhaskargiri Maharaj.

At Devgadh, beneath a temple built for him, the Samadhi of Kisangiri Baba is situated.

Some of the Miracles performed by Baba that bettered the lives of people or displayed his abilities are as follows:-
Forty-Eight Miles Journey in Thirty Minutes
Kisan Baba’s pilgrimage in fifteen days was not believed by some people, but one day, after an incident, their remained no doubt in their minds. He was told by the Patil of village to carry a message across to a nearby village. Kisan Baba left on his feet. After half-an-hour, Patil saw Kisan Baba wandering about in the village and angrily called him. He asked Kisan Baba why hadn’t he left for the task and received an answer that the task had already been finished. That was unbelievable, for the distance between two villages was twenty-four miles. However, Kisan Baba presented a chit that had an answer to Patil’s message. He had actually covered the distance within an impossible time.

Making Dead Man Alive
Once two devotees, a father and his son Gyandev, came to Devgadh. Before leaving they went to their friend house Tailor. Gyandev ate some of the snacks offered to him there and suddenly began vomiting blood. In a few minutes time, before someone could do a thing to comfort him, Gyandev was dead. On his death his father and women around began crying. But one person went to Kisangiri Baba and told him about the incident. Kisangiri Baba gave him a talisman and some powder. The person returned to the boy’s body and tied the talisman around his neck, spread the powder over his body and dropped some in his mouth. Instantaneously the boy woke. As though he had just slept.

Omnipresent Baba
Every year on Dattajayanti day Baba used to sit outside the temple and give blessings to all visitors. Once on Dattajayanti few villagers of Duttasingve village visited Devgadh in afternoon and started asking others when did Baba come here , on being told that Baba is sitting here since morning , they told others with complete surprise , that Baba was in their village and they are coming straight from there after taking Baba’s blessings. With this incident everyone understood that Baba is omnipresent.


Kisangiri Baba has left a great impact over this place. In front of the Datta temple is situated a temple of Kisangiri Baba. In front of this temple is another temple of Panchamukhi Siddheshwara. From behind this group of temples, a large stairway takes one to the bank of Pravara. A building present here, built by the trust of the temple, serves the devotees as a lodge. The whole place is well planned. There are restaurants, shops and gardens.

Devgadh is sixty kilometers away from Aurangabad. One could visit Devgad on their way to Shani Shingnapur.

MORNING PRAYER FOR ALL

It is said morning prayer as one gets up from the bed is most powerful. Given below is a morning prayer which any one who does every morning , by seeing his or her palm , gets immense blessings :-

Kar Agre Vaste Lakshmi , Kar Madhye Saraswati

Kar Mule to Govinda , Prabhate kar darshnam