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Baba
Namaskar,
This entire letter looks at the phenomenon of various avadhutas / avadhutikas who are celebrating their worldly birthday. Such a birthday celebration is called a donkey birthday party. We have to seriously consider the appropriateness of this. Is this consistent with Ananda Marga ideological teachings or not. A listing of those involved is noted below.
Baba’s teaching that during initiation one gets re-birth. So in this situation, we should all consider & rethink the notion of celebrating one’s physical birth.
“With an initiated person the first birth was the physical birth and the second birth was the spiritual birth, during initiation. Such a person is divya, born twice: First, you are simply born as an animal being. But this second time, as a human being. So unless and until one is initiated one is not, one cannot be, treated as a human being.” (1)
Thus the physical birth does hold much value in the life of a spiritual aspirant. When they get initiated onto the path of dharma sadhana, that is their real birth – i.e. when the person gets initiated and takes shelter at Rev. Baba’s feet.
Regarding birthdays, it also has to be mentioned that our present life is nothing but a part life. It is not a full life. Our life began when our consciousness first emanated from the Cosmic Hub. Since that time we have undergone incarnation after incarnation.
“After millions of animal lives, a created being attains the human form...” (2)
“In Sanskrit, dvi means “two” and ja means “born”, so dvija means “twice born”…the first birth was the physical birth, and the second birth was the spiritual birth, during initiation.” (3)
Thus, one should not think that when the spermatozoa fertilised the egg and led to this particular birth, then that is one grand birthday event.
Our life is spiritual oriented, not goaded toward the mundane.
Thus, every sadhaka in the Marga should think twice about how far they should celebrate their “birthday”. For workers, there is no question of celebrating as they have given up everything of their unit existence for Baba. At each and every juncture or stage of an avadhuta’s development and training they are given a new name because each stage itself represents a new birth– a new beginning, all the while leaving behind their old life. In which case, where is the scope for an avadhuta to celebrate his own worldly birthday.
Indeed, all sadhakas in the Marga should take a moment and consider the points in this letter and see if really they feel it appropriate and beneficial to celebrate their own birthday.
Some naive persons may raise the question that when Baba has given the birthday celebration chapter in Caryacarya, then what is wrong if our avadhutas celebrate their birthday? The answer is quite clear. In Caryacarya, Baba also explains what type of meat a person should eat if they cannot resist eating meat. But that does not mean sincere sadhakas and avadhutas should also eat meat or that we should appreciate meat eating.
Remember, Caryacayra is our smrti shastra – our social code – which is not eternal. It depends upon time, space, and person. All kinds of people are coming into Ananda Marga. For some, Baba has given such rules for periods of transition onto the path of dharma.
Everyone knows that in Ananda Marga there are three types of sadhakas: pashvacariis, viiracariis, and divyacariis. Pashvacariis are half-margiis; viiracariis are mediocre sadhakas, and those who are very strict and do not compromise on points of dharma are divyacariis. There will always be a mixture of all three grades of sadhakas. Always, new people are coming into human life and they will enter onto the path of pashvacara. After many lives and with God’s grace they will one day become viiracariis.
This point of eating meat in Caryacarya is for pashvaraiis. They compromise on various aspects of 16 points, but they are also margiis. They live amongst us – we all know this and recognize who is who. A person may not openly declare, “I am a pashvcarii; I am a half-margii”, but everyone knows.
When such pashvacariis become strong, established margiis, their manner will be different. Then they will not do such things like eating meat and celebrating their birthday.
Just as meat-eating is a hindrance to those on that path of sadhana. Similarly, indulging in self-glorification – such as celebrating one’s birthday – is not conducive to one’s spiritual growth and development. Rather it is antithetical. Our spiritual philosophy condemns all forms of self-glorification.
The spirit of being Avadhuta is to dedicate everything to Marga Gurudev. By getting Avadhuta diiksa and by getting their new avadhuta name, they they no longer have anything of their own. In that blessed state, everything belongs to Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. And Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji is their mother father, & everything. That is the oath they have taken.
They surrender their all – their entire I-feeling – at His lotus feet. Their name has changed; their address has changed; their identity has changed. They have no past connection with their worldly life, nor their worldly birth. Avadhutas give everything to Parama Purusa – they have nothing left to call their own.
That is why in the conduct rules of Avadhuta, there is no such thing as the observance of one’s own birthday or any form of celebration or glorification of one’s own unit existence. Rather the avadhuta’s goal of life and the be-all end-all of their existence is to glorify Baba’s image. They are to be established solely in Marga’s Guru’s glory.
“Avadhuta shall always keep himself engaged in the service of Gurudeva with sincerity and devotion, in thought, words and deed, in subtle and in crude spheres, in inner and outer expressions of life.” (4)
In that case, there is not an iota of scope to celebrate one’s own unit birthday. Our wholetimers are to think about Him and focus on the Goal.
“That Cosmic Entity alone should be created in your mind and no other object…He is the terminating point. He is the Supreme Desideratum.” (5)
It is very well known that no Wt or avadhuta should be involved in celebrating their own birthday. That is Baba's strict rule.
Many may recall how in the early 1970's when Ac. Nirmohananda Avt celebrated his own birthday in Daltonganj, then Baba reprimanded him. With His great love, Baba wanted to (a) see Nirmohanandji become a sterling example and (b) set the record straight regarding proper WT conduct. So Baba sent a strong message by rebuking Nirmohananda in front of everyone. Seeing this, all workers immediately understood that they have not come on this earth to party and celebrate their own unit birthday. That is not what Baba wants.
Since then nobody asked permission from Baba to arrange the birthday celebration of any avadhuta. Nor did any acarya dare do so.
Indeed, celebrating one's own birthday leads to the degeneration of mind. Because by thinking of oneself the mind gets smaller and smaller.
And when thinking of oneself in a glorified way by allowing an entire gathering of people to hold a party in your honour and sing happy birthday to you by distorting Baba's compositions of Prabhat Samgiita - which is what some of our acaryas are doing (more about this below) - then this goes against all codes of Wt conduct, etiquette, and devotional life.
Indeed this runs contrary being an Ananda Margii and disciple of the Sadguru Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji. Such a scene will certainly lead to one's degeneration.
"Vanity harms the mind in three ways...The second [way] is gaorava, self-aggrandizement or boasting – projecting oneself as a great personality.... Is this really something great of which human beings can feel proud? And what is the result of this self-glorification? Raorava means the seventh hell." (6)
Thus when some of our Wts are having the entire room sing happy birthday to them - by manipulating Baba's Prabhat Samgiita which is meant for the arrival of Parama Purusa - and when those acaryas themselves are the guest of honour, and when everyone is there to celebrate them, then the entire event is just about their own petty I-feeling.
In that case, their degeneration is sure. As Baba warns, their destiny is the depths of hell.
Now let's critically examine how some of our Wt's are manipulating and entwining Baba's divine songs of Prabhat Samgiita into for the celebration of their own unit birthday.
First, our workers are not supposed to be celebrating their own birthday. This goes against the sanctity of their oaths and against the ideal of their life. They have come onto this earth for something else: To serve Parama Purusa and His creation.
Second, such Wt's are organising birthday parties for themselves and one another and then singing Baba's special Prabhat Samgiita #135, Janmadine..., in the honour of that worker. When in fact that song is meant to be sung to Taraka Brahma Baba and Baba only during our grand Ananda Purnima celebrations.
Yet, over the years, on multiples occasions, certain WTs have directed Baba's beloved Prabhat Samgiita toward themselves, as if they are the focal point of this divine song and as if their worldly birthday is so important.
As we know, that entire Prabhat Samgiit #135, Janmadine..., is all about celebrating the grand arrival of Parama Purusa, yet some of our workers have begun using this divine song for themselves. They stand there and smile as a whole crowd of people sing that divine Prabhat Samgiita in their honour.
Certainly, there are many, many disciplined workers who would never stoop to such degrading activities, so we are not talking about all Wts. The tragedy is that some disgraced workers are involved in this birthday scandal - and this reflects poorly on all. A few of their names are mentioned below.
As true Ananda Margiis will recognise, in Prabhat Samgiita #135, Janmadine ei shubha ks'an'e, the entire song is directed towards Parama Purusa. It is His holy arrival that is being celebrated, not one Dada's worldly birthday.
In the song, due to the grand arrival of Taraka Brahma, devotees are losing themselves in bliss - that is what is meant by the line, "Khusiite vibhora a'panha'ra'.
Plus, the devotees are expressing the love and joy of their heart for Parama Purusa and no one else. That is what is meant by the line, "Udvela hiya' toma'rei la'giya'".
Each and every syllable, line, and stanza of the song is about the grandeur of Parama Purusa and how He makes everyone's heart dance in bliss, and how His arrival creates a new spiritual vibration that transforms the whole world, and how He has come to remain close to the bhakta.
Thus Prabhat Samgiita #135 is a very personal and devotional song that reflects a bhakta's joy in having Parama Purusa in the mind and heart and how His arrival is completely blissful.
To sing this song in honour of one Dada's worldly birthday goes against all ethics of devotional life. According to our standard of Ananda Marga, such an act is not only misguided but the height of hypocrisy.
It is absolutely shocking that they could even think to use Baba's divine Prabhat Samgiita in honour of their own mundane birthday - as if they are the Saviour of this universe.
Who can say they have heard about PP Dada's birthday or GS Dada's birthday. The answer is no one. Because it is not done. Yet If this birthday celebration would have been accepted & approved then certainly first PP Dada's birthday would have been celebrated every year. And then step by step GS Dada's birthday followed by , Purodha Board members and Central Dadas etc. Like this all high posted worker would be doing. But if you examine the history of AM never has such things been done. Because it is understood that this is not approved by Baba.
How far it is appropriate & befitting for Avadhutas to celebrate their own birthday. About this, everyone can surely arrive at the answer. Who can forget that at one time Vishokananda and Madhavananda also carried the title of Avadhuta.
Thus for those who do not follow the codes and standards of being avadhuta - their title of avadhuta is meaningless. Because Baba's guideline is that being Avadhuta in name only is not enough - one must follow the conduct and spirit.
BABA'S WARNINGS
Taking everything into consideration here following are some of Baba's important guidelines about acarya and avadhuta life.
"A'ca'ran'a't pa'thayati yah sah a'ca'ryah-- 'One who teaches through one's conduct is an acarya'. If you cannot learn anything from the conduct and behaviour of a certain person, why should you accept that person as an a'ca'rya." (7)
"Bear in mind that people may be harmed or misled by even a small weakness or defect in the conduct of an acarya...an acarya should always instruct by his exemplary actions and words." (8)
In Ananda Marga, if anything is done for superficial show or in an insincere manner then that is not at all acceptable. For instance, if someone serves you food only to show how great they are then Baba terms that food as: Donkey Food.
“If food is not offered with that heart-felt feeling then that food is donkey food, gardabha’nna. So one must not eat that food.” (9)
Similarly sadhana done with the primary motive of showing one’s greatness instead of pleasing Parama Purusa is donkey sadhana. And if kiirtan is sung with the primary motive as a display of one’s musical talent and instead of to spread the glory of the Lord, then that is donkey kiirtan.
Likewise, when any Wt or avadhuta celebrated their own birthday in their honour instead of spreading the glory of Parama Puruas, then their celebration is a donkey birthday.
About any such cases where Wts go against their own code of conduct - by celebrating their worldly birthday etc - Baba has given the following teaching:
"Dye your mind with His colour. Those who have not done so cannot attain Him, for this very coloration is Prema or Divine Love... No external sign of Sa'dhuta' or virtue is necessary. Become sa'dhu within. Behind the external show of virtuousness of many so-called sa'dhus exists a pharisaic state of mind. Preserve the true dignity of the word, Sa'dhu."
"That is why I say that you must bring about a revolutionary change in the flow of your judgment and thought, and see how, after overcoming your fascination with external colour, your mind becomes tinged with the His glorious colour." (10)
(A) Some time back in Jharsguda (Orissa, India), there was a big birthday party event held in honour of of so-called Dada Priyakrsnananda.
For those not aware, Dada Priyakrsnananda has years and years of experience in AM and even in his early years in the Marga he was a Central Worker who lived close to Baba. But unfortunately, those years he was like a rock in a river. Just as the water never touches the inside of the rock despite the rock being immersed in the river, similarly Priyakrsnananda Dada was very close to Baba physically for many years, but internally he was not drenched. Or what can say.
Perhaps most surprising is that there were many, many so-called senior workers on hand for this birthday gala event and in one big round, they all sang Prabhat Samgiita #135, "Janma dine...", in order to celebrate Priyakrsnananda's birthday.
This type of dogmatic occasion is 100% against the ethics of our Ananda Marga and it sets a very negative example.
(B) Not surprisingly then, more recently in SUVA sector, the very so-called senior Dada Paramatmananda and so-called Didi Ananda Shamiita organised two birthday parties. And once again, they both insisted that PS #135, "Janma dine...", be sung. Thus with printed song sheets etc that Dada and Didi made sure that the birthday event was celebrated with Prabhat Samgiita.
Our so-called senior most workers do not understand the basic principles about Ananda Marga and Prabhat Samgiita. They have forgotten Guru's teachings and guidelines.
(C) Some years ago at New York sector's Boston Regional retreat, Ac. Rainjitananda Avt celebrated his own birthday with full gusto and glory. In grand fashion, everyone present at the retreat sang a hearty round of the traditional American "Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You" song in so-called Dadaji's honor. And during the singing one sumptuous cake was brought out and served to so-called Dadaji. And like that the whole affair took on the flavor of one mundane Americana birthday party whereby non-margiis make a wish for mundane objects as they blow out the candles on the birthday cake and receive presents from one and all etc. So like that Rainjitanandji's celebratory occasion and birthday party was carried out whereby Dada accepted the card and cake and all arrangements in his own honour. Because at that moment so-called Dadaji's birthday was the showcase event going on at the retreat.
(D) Didi Ananda Kalyanshrii has also been involved in grand birthday celebrations. This Didi who used to be DSL Delhi and then became SWWS Delhi had big birthday celebrations where all her children's home kids would sing for her. Actually this Didi has a long history of self-glorification as she is involved in movie-making and videography and is not shy about putting herself on film etc. Now she is posted as SWWS Hong Kong Sector. All recall how Didi celebrated her birthday with much pomp and show.
(E) Here is a list of more Wt Dadas and Wt Didis who use Prabhat Samgiita to celebrate themeselves on their worldly birthday - plus they accept and receive presents as well. Please forward this letter to them so they are aware about this matter
Didi Ananda Vibha
Didi Ananda Anuprabha
Didi Ananda Advaya
Didi Ananda Usa
Didi Ananda Hitesana
Didi Ananda Danavrata
Didi Ananda Avisha
Didi Ananda Arundhati
Didi Ananda Sudha
Dada Priyakrsnananda
Dada Rathindrananda
Dada Nirmohananda
And there are more...
First please forward this letter to the aforementioned Wts. Second, write us if you have seen other Wt Dadas or Didis doing like this type of donkey birthday.
The sole reason for writing this letter and addressing this issue is to help those Wts rectify their conduct and improve the overall standard of our Wt cadre. If this problem is not solved, then some of the newer Wts many also adopt this birthday ritual and prolong the dogma. Yet we should not let this problem mount. We must also bear in mind that many Wts - new and old - do not support these Wt birthday celebrations yet they are not in position to rectify the matter. Whatever the circumstance, as Ananda Margiis it is our duty to bring this issue to the fore so it can be properly addressed and resolved.
Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Nityanirainjan Deva
REFERENCES:
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 30, Twice Born
2. Ananda Va'nii #33
3. Ananda Vacnamrtam - 30
4. Rule no. 28 of 32 Rules for Avadhutas
5. Ánanda Vacanámrtam Part 2
6. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle
7. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23 p.150
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 31 p.18
9. Summary of Shabda Cayanika - 20, p.163-64 [Bangla]
10. Subhasita Samgraha part 3
-- Baba
== GRAND CELEBRATION OF DONKEY BIRTHDAY ==
Namaskar,
This entire letter looks at the phenomenon of various avadhutas / avadhutikas who are celebrating their worldly birthday. Such a birthday celebration is called a donkey birthday party. We have to seriously consider the appropriateness of this. Is this consistent with Ananda Marga ideological teachings or not. A listing of those involved is noted below.
INITIATION MEANS REBIRTH
Baba’s teaching that during initiation one gets re-birth. So in this situation, we should all consider & rethink the notion of celebrating one’s physical birth.
“With an initiated person the first birth was the physical birth and the second birth was the spiritual birth, during initiation. Such a person is divya, born twice: First, you are simply born as an animal being. But this second time, as a human being. So unless and until one is initiated one is not, one cannot be, treated as a human being.” (1)
Thus the physical birth does hold much value in the life of a spiritual aspirant. When they get initiated onto the path of dharma sadhana, that is their real birth – i.e. when the person gets initiated and takes shelter at Rev. Baba’s feet.
PART LIFE VS FULL LIFE
Regarding birthdays, it also has to be mentioned that our present life is nothing but a part life. It is not a full life. Our life began when our consciousness first emanated from the Cosmic Hub. Since that time we have undergone incarnation after incarnation.
“After millions of animal lives, a created being attains the human form...” (2)
“In Sanskrit, dvi means “two” and ja means “born”, so dvija means “twice born”…the first birth was the physical birth, and the second birth was the spiritual birth, during initiation.” (3)
Thus, one should not think that when the spermatozoa fertilised the egg and led to this particular birth, then that is one grand birthday event.
Our life is spiritual oriented, not goaded toward the mundane.
Thus, every sadhaka in the Marga should think twice about how far they should celebrate their “birthday”. For workers, there is no question of celebrating as they have given up everything of their unit existence for Baba. At each and every juncture or stage of an avadhuta’s development and training they are given a new name because each stage itself represents a new birth– a new beginning, all the while leaving behind their old life. In which case, where is the scope for an avadhuta to celebrate his own worldly birthday.
Indeed, all sadhakas in the Marga should take a moment and consider the points in this letter and see if really they feel it appropriate and beneficial to celebrate their own birthday.
SOME NAIVE PEOPLE MAY RAISE THIS QUESTION
Some naive persons may raise the question that when Baba has given the birthday celebration chapter in Caryacarya, then what is wrong if our avadhutas celebrate their birthday? The answer is quite clear. In Caryacarya, Baba also explains what type of meat a person should eat if they cannot resist eating meat. But that does not mean sincere sadhakas and avadhutas should also eat meat or that we should appreciate meat eating.
Remember, Caryacayra is our smrti shastra – our social code – which is not eternal. It depends upon time, space, and person. All kinds of people are coming into Ananda Marga. For some, Baba has given such rules for periods of transition onto the path of dharma.
Everyone knows that in Ananda Marga there are three types of sadhakas: pashvacariis, viiracariis, and divyacariis. Pashvacariis are half-margiis; viiracariis are mediocre sadhakas, and those who are very strict and do not compromise on points of dharma are divyacariis. There will always be a mixture of all three grades of sadhakas. Always, new people are coming into human life and they will enter onto the path of pashvacara. After many lives and with God’s grace they will one day become viiracariis.
This point of eating meat in Caryacarya is for pashvaraiis. They compromise on various aspects of 16 points, but they are also margiis. They live amongst us – we all know this and recognize who is who. A person may not openly declare, “I am a pashvcarii; I am a half-margii”, but everyone knows.
When such pashvacariis become strong, established margiis, their manner will be different. Then they will not do such things like eating meat and celebrating their birthday.
Just as meat-eating is a hindrance to those on that path of sadhana. Similarly, indulging in self-glorification – such as celebrating one’s birthday – is not conducive to one’s spiritual growth and development. Rather it is antithetical. Our spiritual philosophy condemns all forms of self-glorification.
SPIRIT OF AVADHUTA
The spirit of being Avadhuta is to dedicate everything to Marga Gurudev. By getting Avadhuta diiksa and by getting their new avadhuta name, they they no longer have anything of their own. In that blessed state, everything belongs to Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. And Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji is their mother father, & everything. That is the oath they have taken.
They surrender their all – their entire I-feeling – at His lotus feet. Their name has changed; their address has changed; their identity has changed. They have no past connection with their worldly life, nor their worldly birth. Avadhutas give everything to Parama Purusa – they have nothing left to call their own.
That is why in the conduct rules of Avadhuta, there is no such thing as the observance of one’s own birthday or any form of celebration or glorification of one’s own unit existence. Rather the avadhuta’s goal of life and the be-all end-all of their existence is to glorify Baba’s image. They are to be established solely in Marga’s Guru’s glory.
“Avadhuta shall always keep himself engaged in the service of Gurudeva with sincerity and devotion, in thought, words and deed, in subtle and in crude spheres, in inner and outer expressions of life.” (4)
In that case, there is not an iota of scope to celebrate one’s own unit birthday. Our wholetimers are to think about Him and focus on the Goal.
Tadekam’ smara’mah…Tadekam’ nidha’nam’
“That Cosmic Entity alone should be created in your mind and no other object…He is the terminating point. He is the Supreme Desideratum.” (5)
BABA'S MANDATE:
NO BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR WT
NO BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR WT
It is very well known that no Wt or avadhuta should be involved in celebrating their own birthday. That is Baba's strict rule.
Many may recall how in the early 1970's when Ac. Nirmohananda Avt celebrated his own birthday in Daltonganj, then Baba reprimanded him. With His great love, Baba wanted to (a) see Nirmohanandji become a sterling example and (b) set the record straight regarding proper WT conduct. So Baba sent a strong message by rebuking Nirmohananda in front of everyone. Seeing this, all workers immediately understood that they have not come on this earth to party and celebrate their own unit birthday. That is not what Baba wants.
Since then nobody asked permission from Baba to arrange the birthday celebration of any avadhuta. Nor did any acarya dare do so.
WARNING:
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION = DEGENERATION
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION = DEGENERATION
Indeed, celebrating one's own birthday leads to the degeneration of mind. Because by thinking of oneself the mind gets smaller and smaller.
And when thinking of oneself in a glorified way by allowing an entire gathering of people to hold a party in your honour and sing happy birthday to you by distorting Baba's compositions of Prabhat Samgiita - which is what some of our acaryas are doing (more about this below) - then this goes against all codes of Wt conduct, etiquette, and devotional life.
Indeed this runs contrary being an Ananda Margii and disciple of the Sadguru Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji. Such a scene will certainly lead to one's degeneration.
"Vanity harms the mind in three ways...The second [way] is gaorava, self-aggrandizement or boasting – projecting oneself as a great personality.... Is this really something great of which human beings can feel proud? And what is the result of this self-glorification? Raorava means the seventh hell." (6)
Thus when some of our Wts are having the entire room sing happy birthday to them - by manipulating Baba's Prabhat Samgiita which is meant for the arrival of Parama Purusa - and when those acaryas themselves are the guest of honour, and when everyone is there to celebrate them, then the entire event is just about their own petty I-feeling.
In that case, their degeneration is sure. As Baba warns, their destiny is the depths of hell.
THEY ARE USING BABA'S BIRTHDAY SONG FOR THEMSELVES
Now let's critically examine how some of our Wt's are manipulating and entwining Baba's divine songs of Prabhat Samgiita into for the celebration of their own unit birthday.
First, our workers are not supposed to be celebrating their own birthday. This goes against the sanctity of their oaths and against the ideal of their life. They have come onto this earth for something else: To serve Parama Purusa and His creation.
Second, such Wt's are organising birthday parties for themselves and one another and then singing Baba's special Prabhat Samgiita #135, Janmadine..., in the honour of that worker. When in fact that song is meant to be sung to Taraka Brahma Baba and Baba only during our grand Ananda Purnima celebrations.
Yet, over the years, on multiples occasions, certain WTs have directed Baba's beloved Prabhat Samgiita toward themselves, as if they are the focal point of this divine song and as if their worldly birthday is so important.
As we know, that entire Prabhat Samgiit #135, Janmadine..., is all about celebrating the grand arrival of Parama Purusa, yet some of our workers have begun using this divine song for themselves. They stand there and smile as a whole crowd of people sing that divine Prabhat Samgiita in their honour.
Certainly, there are many, many disciplined workers who would never stoop to such degrading activities, so we are not talking about all Wts. The tragedy is that some disgraced workers are involved in this birthday scandal - and this reflects poorly on all. A few of their names are mentioned below.
MORE ABOUT PRABHAT SAMGIITA #135
As true Ananda Margiis will recognise, in Prabhat Samgiita #135, Janmadine ei shubha ks'an'e, the entire song is directed towards Parama Purusa. It is His holy arrival that is being celebrated, not one Dada's worldly birthday.
In the song, due to the grand arrival of Taraka Brahma, devotees are losing themselves in bliss - that is what is meant by the line, "Khusiite vibhora a'panha'ra'.
Plus, the devotees are expressing the love and joy of their heart for Parama Purusa and no one else. That is what is meant by the line, "Udvela hiya' toma'rei la'giya'".
Each and every syllable, line, and stanza of the song is about the grandeur of Parama Purusa and how He makes everyone's heart dance in bliss, and how His arrival creates a new spiritual vibration that transforms the whole world, and how He has come to remain close to the bhakta.
Thus Prabhat Samgiita #135 is a very personal and devotional song that reflects a bhakta's joy in having Parama Purusa in the mind and heart and how His arrival is completely blissful.
To sing this song in honour of one Dada's worldly birthday goes against all ethics of devotional life. According to our standard of Ananda Marga, such an act is not only misguided but the height of hypocrisy.
It is absolutely shocking that they could even think to use Baba's divine Prabhat Samgiita in honour of their own mundane birthday - as if they are the Saviour of this universe.
PP's and GS's BIRTHDAY NOT CELEBRATED
Who can say they have heard about PP Dada's birthday or GS Dada's birthday. The answer is no one. Because it is not done. Yet If this birthday celebration would have been accepted & approved then certainly first PP Dada's birthday would have been celebrated every year. And then step by step GS Dada's birthday followed by , Purodha Board members and Central Dadas etc. Like this all high posted worker would be doing. But if you examine the history of AM never has such things been done. Because it is understood that this is not approved by Baba.
THEY WERE ALSO "AVADHUTA"
How far it is appropriate & befitting for Avadhutas to celebrate their own birthday. About this, everyone can surely arrive at the answer. Who can forget that at one time Vishokananda and Madhavananda also carried the title of Avadhuta.
Thus for those who do not follow the codes and standards of being avadhuta - their title of avadhuta is meaningless. Because Baba's guideline is that being Avadhuta in name only is not enough - one must follow the conduct and spirit.
BABA'S WARNINGS
Taking everything into consideration here following are some of Baba's important guidelines about acarya and avadhuta life.
"A'ca'ran'a't pa'thayati yah sah a'ca'ryah-- 'One who teaches through one's conduct is an acarya'. If you cannot learn anything from the conduct and behaviour of a certain person, why should you accept that person as an a'ca'rya." (7)
"Bear in mind that people may be harmed or misled by even a small weakness or defect in the conduct of an acarya...an acarya should always instruct by his exemplary actions and words." (8)
JUST DONKEY’S BIRTHDAY
In Ananda Marga, if anything is done for superficial show or in an insincere manner then that is not at all acceptable. For instance, if someone serves you food only to show how great they are then Baba terms that food as: Donkey Food.
“If food is not offered with that heart-felt feeling then that food is donkey food, gardabha’nna. So one must not eat that food.” (9)
Similarly sadhana done with the primary motive of showing one’s greatness instead of pleasing Parama Purusa is donkey sadhana. And if kiirtan is sung with the primary motive as a display of one’s musical talent and instead of to spread the glory of the Lord, then that is donkey kiirtan.
Likewise, when any Wt or avadhuta celebrated their own birthday in their honour instead of spreading the glory of Parama Puruas, then their celebration is a donkey birthday.
SOME FAKE AVADHUTAS INVOLVED IN BIRTHDAY ANTICS
About any such cases where Wts go against their own code of conduct - by celebrating their worldly birthday etc - Baba has given the following teaching:
"Mana na' ra'inga'ile ra'inga'ile yogii kapar'a.
Saffron and red do not a yogiis make
With mind undyed he remains a fake."
Saffron and red do not a yogiis make
With mind undyed he remains a fake."
"Dye your mind with His colour. Those who have not done so cannot attain Him, for this very coloration is Prema or Divine Love... No external sign of Sa'dhuta' or virtue is necessary. Become sa'dhu within. Behind the external show of virtuousness of many so-called sa'dhus exists a pharisaic state of mind. Preserve the true dignity of the word, Sa'dhu."
“Mu’r'ha mura’ye jata’ bar’a'ye...
With shaven head or matted locks
And ashen body a Sadhu walks
With the swaggering gait of a well-fed buffalo.
And crude mind filled with thoughts mean and low."
With shaven head or matted locks
And ashen body a Sadhu walks
With the swaggering gait of a well-fed buffalo.
And crude mind filled with thoughts mean and low."
"That is why I say that you must bring about a revolutionary change in the flow of your judgment and thought, and see how, after overcoming your fascination with external colour, your mind becomes tinged with the His glorious colour." (10)
(A) Some time back in Jharsguda (Orissa, India), there was a big birthday party event held in honour of of so-called Dada Priyakrsnananda.
For those not aware, Dada Priyakrsnananda has years and years of experience in AM and even in his early years in the Marga he was a Central Worker who lived close to Baba. But unfortunately, those years he was like a rock in a river. Just as the water never touches the inside of the rock despite the rock being immersed in the river, similarly Priyakrsnananda Dada was very close to Baba physically for many years, but internally he was not drenched. Or what can say.
Perhaps most surprising is that there were many, many so-called senior workers on hand for this birthday gala event and in one big round, they all sang Prabhat Samgiita #135, "Janma dine...", in order to celebrate Priyakrsnananda's birthday.
This type of dogmatic occasion is 100% against the ethics of our Ananda Marga and it sets a very negative example.
(B) Not surprisingly then, more recently in SUVA sector, the very so-called senior Dada Paramatmananda and so-called Didi Ananda Shamiita organised two birthday parties. And once again, they both insisted that PS #135, "Janma dine...", be sung. Thus with printed song sheets etc that Dada and Didi made sure that the birthday event was celebrated with Prabhat Samgiita.
Our so-called senior most workers do not understand the basic principles about Ananda Marga and Prabhat Samgiita. They have forgotten Guru's teachings and guidelines.
(C) Some years ago at New York sector's Boston Regional retreat, Ac. Rainjitananda Avt celebrated his own birthday with full gusto and glory. In grand fashion, everyone present at the retreat sang a hearty round of the traditional American "Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You" song in so-called Dadaji's honor. And during the singing one sumptuous cake was brought out and served to so-called Dadaji. And like that the whole affair took on the flavor of one mundane Americana birthday party whereby non-margiis make a wish for mundane objects as they blow out the candles on the birthday cake and receive presents from one and all etc. So like that Rainjitanandji's celebratory occasion and birthday party was carried out whereby Dada accepted the card and cake and all arrangements in his own honour. Because at that moment so-called Dadaji's birthday was the showcase event going on at the retreat.
(D) Didi Ananda Kalyanshrii has also been involved in grand birthday celebrations. This Didi who used to be DSL Delhi and then became SWWS Delhi had big birthday celebrations where all her children's home kids would sing for her. Actually this Didi has a long history of self-glorification as she is involved in movie-making and videography and is not shy about putting herself on film etc. Now she is posted as SWWS Hong Kong Sector. All recall how Didi celebrated her birthday with much pomp and show.
(E) Here is a list of more Wt Dadas and Wt Didis who use Prabhat Samgiita to celebrate themeselves on their worldly birthday - plus they accept and receive presents as well. Please forward this letter to them so they are aware about this matter
Didi Ananda Vibha
Didi Ananda Anuprabha
Didi Ananda Advaya
Didi Ananda Usa
Didi Ananda Hitesana
Didi Ananda Danavrata
Didi Ananda Avisha
Didi Ananda Arundhati
Didi Ananda Sudha
Dada Priyakrsnananda
Dada Rathindrananda
Dada Nirmohananda
And there are more...
First please forward this letter to the aforementioned Wts. Second, write us if you have seen other Wt Dadas or Didis doing like this type of donkey birthday.
CONCLUSION
The sole reason for writing this letter and addressing this issue is to help those Wts rectify their conduct and improve the overall standard of our Wt cadre. If this problem is not solved, then some of the newer Wts many also adopt this birthday ritual and prolong the dogma. Yet we should not let this problem mount. We must also bear in mind that many Wts - new and old - do not support these Wt birthday celebrations yet they are not in position to rectify the matter. Whatever the circumstance, as Ananda Margiis it is our duty to bring this issue to the fore so it can be properly addressed and resolved.
Namaskar,
at His lotus feet,
Nityanirainjan Deva
REFERENCES:
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 30, Twice Born
2. Ananda Va'nii #33
3. Ananda Vacnamrtam - 30
4. Rule no. 28 of 32 Rules for Avadhutas
5. Ánanda Vacanámrtam Part 2
6. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 11, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle
7. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 23 p.150
8. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 31 p.18
9. Summary of Shabda Cayanika - 20, p.163-64 [Bangla]
10. Subhasita Samgraha part 3
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