This morning, Daaji woke up very early with a peaceful start to the day. At 5:30 am, he went out on a walk around the grounds of Kanha. While discussing the lighting for the greenhouse projects, Daaji emphasized the need for a good lighting system to ensure proper photosynthesis for the plants. After seeing the work done by the solar panel team, he suggested adding polycarbonate sheets between the solar panels to allow some light to come through. He also noticed some pepper plants that needed support and offered advice on how to tie them properly.&nbsp;&nbsp;As he walked along the water canal, Daaji came across a sandalwood tree that had fallen due to the rain. A team was already at the site recovering the fallen tree. He supervised the gardening team as they worked to set the tree back and up again safely. After feeding the fish, Daaji went to observe the various agricultural fields. He was pleased to see the dragon fruit trees thriving well. &nbsp;Daaji’s attention to detail, care towards every plant, sapling, and person is a point to note here and teaches us volumes as to how every action, word, and gesture of ours can have a profound impact.&nbsp; &nbsp;

As he walked along the water canal, Daaji came across a sandalwood tree that had fallen due to the rain. A team was already at the site recovering the fallen tree. He supervised the gardening team as they worked to set the tree back and up again safely.

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Daaji teaches with his example. He embodies the ideals, kindness, and compassion he believes in, which show us the way to lead our lives.

Kanha Shantivanam 15th July 2024

Daaji conducted the first satsangh in the main meditation hall since his return from his overseas travels. For all the Kanha residents who are meditating with Daaji after a gap of about 50 days, it was an enthralling experience to see him back on the main stage of the hall and conduct the meditation session.&nbsp;&nbsp;Daaji virtually inaugurated the meditation hall at Khair, Aligarh, UP, India, during this satsangh. After that, he distributed the certificates to the yoga training students who had just completed their RYT200 level course.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following this, he answered questions from the teachers coming from the state of Sikkim, India. The proceedings are recorded here:&nbsp;After the Q&amp;A Daaji then announced the pilot project of collecting used kitchen oil to convert it to biofuel saying that once we had a sufficient volume he would share with everyone the results of this pilot-run of this project.&nbsp;Then he said goodbye to the young new abhyasis taking their first sitting on the stage. As he exited the stage, he was greeted by a little child, and her father, from Sikkim. Daaji graciously accepted the scarf offered by the father and put it on the little girl.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He then went to his office where he met with a senior officer of the Indian Navy. The Vice-Admiral, Anand Sardesai, asked Daaji several questions on the nature of combat and war. The dialogue between the Vice-Admiral and Daaji delved into the complexities of predicting future events of destruction as predicted by many a sage and oracle. The Vice Admiral was very curious regarding the philosophical nature of being a warrior. Daaji articulated that predicting the future was inherently difficult due to its dynamic and fluid nature, heavily influenced by the actions and will of people. While it was possible to foresee certain events in astrology, these predictions could be altered by human intervention. However, once a path of destruction was initiated, it became a matter of when, rather than if, it would occur. Daaji referenced the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle to highlight the inherent uncertainties in making precise predictions, explaining that just as it is difficult to determine both the position and momentum of a particle simultaneously, predicting the exact timing and location of future events is equally challenging.&nbsp;To illustrate his point further, Daaji drew on historical epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. He recounted how the destinies of key characters were altered by human emotions and actions. For instance, in the Ramayana, although the horoscopes of Rama and Sita predicted happiness, their lives took a tragic turn due to the jealousy of Kaikeyi and the ego of Dasharatha who preferred sending his beloved son to the forest rather than break a vow given to his wife, however incoherent her request to him seemed to be. Similarly, the great wars in both the Ramayana and the Mahabharata were precipitated by what could be termed as the “arrogance" of Bhishma and Dasharatha, respectively. Daaji boldly suggested that if these figures had been humble enough to reconsider their oaths and promises, the outcomes could have been vastly different.&nbsp;Addressing the Vice-Admiral's perspective on warrior ethos, Daaji emphasized that being a warrior was not merely about engaging in violence. Instead, it encompassed a broader responsibility of protecting the weak, fostering compassion, teamwork, and a commitment to peace. He referenced the Bhagavad Gita, where Arjuna grappled with the moral dilemma of participating in destruction. Daaji underscored the importance of maintaining righteousness, which is often more challenging than it appears. He humorously remarked that if divine figures like Krishna or Rama were to spend time among people today, they would quickly become burdensome, as people prefer to honor them in temples rather than integrate their principles into their daily lives.&nbsp;Daaji also critiqued present-day worship practices, noting a significant departure from the genuine spiritual connection that characterized Vedic times. He lamented that contemporary rituals often lacked true feeling and had become a form of escapism. In contrast, during the Vedic era, people felt a profound connection with nature and divinity, perceiving God's presence in themselves, the sky, rivers, mountains, and the cosmos. Daaji argued that today's worship often involved external rituals without an internal spiritual experience, marking a degradation of the original essence of Hinduism.&nbsp;In summary, the dialogue covered the unpredictability of future events, the philosophical nature of being a warrior, and a critique of modern worship practices. Daaji's insights highlighted the importance of humility, compassion, and genuine spiritual connection in navigating life's challenges and maintaining righteousness. &nbsp;

He greeted a visiting abhyasi couple who were visiting Kanha for the first time to meet Daaji. They were happy to be in his presence and Daaji warmly welcomed them into the fold. Later he went back home after saying goodbye to all.

Daaji also critiqued present-day worship practices, noting a significant departure from the genuine spiritual connection that characterized Vedic times. He lamented that contemporary rituals often lacked true feeling and had become a form of escapism. In contrast, during the Vedic era, people felt a profound connection with nature and divinity, perceiving God's presence in themselves, the sky, rivers, mountains, and the cosmos. Daaji argued that today's worship often involved external rituals without an internal spiritual experience, marking a degradation of the original essence of Hinduism.

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The day started with the much-awaited satsangh after Daaji’s return from his world tour. After fifty days, residents of Kanha and many abhyasi could join him to meditate. 

Kanha Shantivanam 14th July 2024

11th July &nbsp;In the early hours of the morning, around 6:30 am, Daaji made an unexpected visit to the institution's land, much to the delight of the volunteers who had already been working in the field since early morning. Their faces lit up with joy at the surprise visit from Daaji and they requested a group photo with him, which Daaji obliged affectionately. Thus capturing a moment to be cherished. He surveyed the papaya garden and coconut trees.&nbsp;Daaji has been dedicated to the cause of Forests by Heartfulness. He was in touch with the teams in Kanha guiding them and providing feedback on their regular updates to the ongoing work. This initiative helps not only set the benchmark in environmental efforts but also acts as a model for other organizations to emulate. Jeybal discussed several ideas on cultivation plans for that spot where even more vegetables could be grown on a large scale. After coming home Daaji went around the garden for a while.&nbsp; &nbsp;

12th July &nbsp;As soon as he was up and about for the day, Daaji got to work. He was at his computer desk attending to the necessary work. Then he went on a long walk along with Jeybal. Daaji inspected various areas of the garden with keen interest. He talked about a special project he had been contemplating, aimed at transforming a section of the institution's land into a denser forest. Daaji mentioned that a particular oil could serve as a biofuel and improve the fertility of the soil. He explained the concept of repurposing used cooking oil for sustainable purposes, and that this initiative would be announced with the larger audience soon. At a very high level, the plan is to collect used cooking oil from all the homes, the main kitchen, and the canteen in Kanha to pilot this eco-friendly project here.

13th July &nbsp;In the morning, Daaji went to his office at the back of the meditation hall stage to meet with a few abhyasis waiting for him.&nbsp; His arrival was marked by a warm greeting from an elderly abhyasi who was celebrating his birthday. This brother presented Daaji with a large bottle of his homemade golden honey, which Daaji accepted gracefully, extending his heartfelt birthday wishes.An abhyasi from Tumkunkta ashram, located on the outskirts of Secunderabad city, met him and said that the abhyasis there were eager to know when he’d visit the ashram. Daaji assured them that he'd like to visit them soon and wondered if they could leave that day itself and hold the next day’s Sunday satsangh there. However, when some other work came up at Kanha, he decided that he would visit at another time.&nbsp;When it was the ashram management team’s turn to present their updates of the ongoing work in Kanha, Daaji conveyed his satisfaction to the ashram manager &amp; chairman, Vineet Ranawat, commending him and his team for managing the affairs of the ashram so well. Consequently, there was no need for him to further review the ongoing programs that brother Vineet had brought to show him.Daaji conducted satsangh for all those who were present in the office room, and after that, he continued to attend to those who had gathered in the room. The abhyasis affectionately approached him, each with their requests, stories to tell, and news to share. Some shared joyous tidings, while others sought clarity amidst confusion, and a few others approached with tears, sharing their painful experiences. Daaji listened attentively to each person, providing guidance, sympathy, and direction as needed.&nbsp; Everyone felt heard and was grateful for the time Daaji spent with them. He had to return home for some other work that was awaiting him. But instead, he stretched himself to be available to all those who needed him there at the time.&nbsp;

Daaji's arrival was marked by a warm greeting from an elderly abhyasi who was celebrating his birthday. This brother presented Daaji with a large bottle of his homemade golden honey, which Daaji accepted gracefully, extending his heartfelt birthday wishes.

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Daaji’s days at Kanha are going quite peacefully, which was much needed, especially after his hectic visits to Dubai, Europe, and the USA. However, he kept meeting abhyasis with his usual kindness and compassion, inspiring us all with his example. 

Kanha Shantivanam 11th - 13th July 2024

In the early hours of the morning, Daaji returned to India after a long journey. His flight LH752 from Frankfurt landed at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, just a few hours after a heavy downpour around 1.40 AM.&nbsp; &nbsp;A large group of excited and joyful abhyasis awaited Daaji's arrival. It was 2 AM when Daaji finally emerged, accompanied by a few abhyasis from Frankfurt on the last leg of his journey. As he stepped out, he greeted the eager faces near the gate with a few kind words. Those standing behind the barriers soon began to unfurl their banners, cheerfully displaying, "Welcome back, Daaji!".&nbsp; &nbsp;Noting the presence of many familiar faces, Daaji paused several times to exchange greetings, lifting everyone's spirits despite the long flight, which lasted over eight hours. His cheerful demeanor was a welcome sight. &nbsp;He then got into a car driven by his son, Marg, and headed home with Pratima Ben. Kanha's atmosphere was jubilant even in the wee hours of the morning. Many abhyasis had gathered at the gate, eagerly awaiting Daaji's arrival. The pathways of Kanha were adorned with pretty lights, leading to his home, where his family was ready to welcome him ever so warmly. &nbsp;

After getting freshened up Daaji went to his swing and had some tea and snacks. Later he went to bed around 4:30 AM. Daaji rested till 11:30 AM catching up on the jet lag. Little later all three grandchildren were with him for the first time in months. They were seated in his lap with evident joy that lit up the little room! Only little Devki, the eldest of his grandchildren, was in school, at that time in the morning, so it was not the full circle yet. After giving the little ones the gifts he had brought back for them, he rested some more.&nbsp; &nbsp;Around 6 PM, a few abhyasis who were waiting for him, met him while he sat on the swing. Light banter kept everyone smiling as there was an ease of his presence for being back in Kanha. A little later, Daaji went for a walk in the garden. A sister who was going to Australia came to say goodbye to Daaji as she was leaving that day. This was followed by a quiet moment when they all meditated around 8 pm with Daaji after which practically everyone left in the gathering silence of a quiet Kanha evening leaving Daaji to rest for the evening. Daaji had dinner with some of them and then retired to bed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Highlight of the Day &nbsp;All three grandchildren were with him for the first time in months. They were seated in his lap with evident joy that lit up the little room! Only little Devki, the eldest of his grandchildren, was in school, at that time in the morning, so it was not the full circle yet. &nbsp;

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Daaji reached Hyderabad and Kanha in the wee hours of the morning. His presence in Kanha changed the atmosphere of the place as if a new wave of positivity had arrived. He spent his day with his family, his grandchildren, and some abhyasis. 

Kanha Shantivanam 10th July 2024

The day to return home at Kanha has finally arrived. Daaji got up early and got ready. He was surprised to know that there were close to 50 members waiting to meet him. &nbsp;Daaji was very happy to see so many willing hearts and then conducted the meditation session around 8 AM. After the meditation session, Daaji spent another twenty minutes talking to all the abhyasis present.&nbsp; &nbsp;During the discussion, Daaji enquired about one of the sisters who is very old now, and asked how her health was keeping. Out of concern regarding her degrading health, Daaji suggested doing polarity regularly and recommended that someone help her with the brain gym exercises.&nbsp;&nbsp;Later Daaji excused himself to have a quick breakfast before leaving for the airport to take the flight to Hyderabad. Daaji left to airport at around 10:30 AM from the hotel. Many practitioners came to the airport to see him off.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Around 1:40 PM, Daaji boarded the direct flight LH752, from Frankfurt to Hyderabad. He was warmly, lovingly, and eagerly awaited by many abhyasis at the Hyderabad Airport, who were all very happy to have Him back home.&nbsp; &nbsp;We are all so grateful to Daaji for His willingness to visit with so many of us around the world. While the practitioners abroad hope to see Him again very soon, we all also pray for His health and wellbeing as He settles back in Kanha and gets some much-needed rest. &nbsp;

The Highlight of the Day&nbsp;Around 1:40 PM, Daaji boarded the direct flight LH752, from Frankfurt to Hyderabad. He was warmly, lovingly, and eagerly awaited by many abhyasis at the Hyderabad Airport, who were all very happy to have Him back home.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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Daaji left for Kanha after finishing his long tours around two continents. Abhyasis from all over the world waited to get a glimpse of him in person and finally, their wishes were fulfilled. Now, he is home.


Frankfurt 9th July 2024

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A live journal of blessed activities in and around Kanha with Daaji

The following day began with Daaji offering yet another beautiful meditation session in the early morning. After a profound Heartfulness meditation session that was telecast live on the Heartfulness channel, Daaji invited Mr. Linguswamy to give a talk. His talk revolved around his experiences with the Heartfulness meditation practice and its transformative effect. He expressed his gratitude to Daaji referring to him as a ‘real hero.’&nbsp;This was followed by a heartwarming Q&amp;A session with Daaji. His words resonated deeply with the eager practitioners, leaving everyone inspired and deeply moved.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Later that evening, Daaji welcomed a group of practitioners from the Baduga tribal community of Ooty, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Nilgiri mountain range. Their hearts were deeply touched as Daaji interacted with them personally. His gentle words and affectionate demeanor created an unforgettable experience for the community members. He ended the meeting with a promise saying, “I will come soon to Ooty,” filling their hearts with even more joy! He then posed for a group photo with them.&nbsp;Many dignitaries had come to meet Daaji in Tiruppur: Mr. V. Sundararajan, Chairman of Sky Group of Companies and the Founder Secretary of Vanam Foundation, Palladam, Tiruppur District; the Founder Director of the Coconut Farmers Producer Company; and Mr. K. R. Nagarajan who is the Chairman of the Ramraj Cotton Group of Companies and Vice President of the World Community Service Center.&nbsp;Daaji met with Padma Shri Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman, Poppy's Group of Companies and Honorary, Founder President, Tiruppur Exporters Association (TEA); the President of Federation of Indian Exporters Organizations (FIEO); and Mr. N. Thirukkumaran Managing Director, Ess Tee Group of Companies and General Secretary, Tiruppur Exporters Association (TEA). Daaji also met with Mr. Kumar Duraiswamy who is the Managing Director, Eastern Global Clothings, the Joint Secretary of Tiruppur Exporters Association (TEA), and also the Project Director, 'Vanathukkul Tiruppur' - Initiatives of Green Tiruppur; and the Convenor, Tiruppur Stakeholders Forum (TSF).&nbsp;&nbsp;After a brief discussion with them on varied initiatives Daaji then asked for the Brighter Minds demonstration to be presented to all the guests.&nbsp; Later they all joined Daaji for the evening Heartfulness meditation session, after which he gave a talk that touched every heart present in the audience. Daaji expressed his joy saying, “My stay here at DJ Park has been very productive and I admire your sacrifice for coming here despite so many inconveniences. Returning home you will notice even greater changes that will unfold in your day-to-day lives because of these three meditation sessions. Tomorrow I will be returning back home but my heart will always remain here and I intend to come back hopefully on the 11th November.”&nbsp;Touching upon the topic of peace, Daaji reminisced about Babuji Maharaj’s letter to the United Nations dated July&nbsp;8, 1957 where Babuji emphasized that world peace cannot be possible until individual peace is granted. Daaji said, “And who can grant this individual peace? No one, but yourself. It’s an individual attitude: a person under turbulence can remain unshaken and a person without any sort of problems remains stressful and anxious. Our path, the Heartfulness way is a direct gift from the Divine because through this&nbsp;pranahuti or transmission all willing practitioners are able to experience a minimum level of peace.”Daaji threw light on the intricacies of how attaining liberation during this lifetime can take us to that state of non-duality whose inherent quality is peace. He also differentiated the peace that one attains before liberation at the Atma chakra [2nd point in the heart region] and the peace experienced beyond the 9th point.&nbsp; He said, “There is no solution in asking or praying for peace. Liberation is in our hands: no God or Guru can grant it if we are not deserving. So our only job is to become deserving individuals.”Daaji also gave simple solutions as to how one can become deserving individuals. He then went on to reveal, “something that most people have not understood in the very first chapter of&nbsp;Reality at Dawn.” Daaji divulged the true interpretation of Babuji Maharaj’s very profound statement –&nbsp;Where religion ends, spirituality begins; where spirituality ends, reality begins; where reality ends, bliss begins.&nbsp;By linking the intricate concepts of God, divine experiences, desires and transcendence, Daaji clarified the meaning of this statement.

Daaji threw light on the intricacies of how attaining liberation during this lifetime can take us to that state of non-duality whose inherent quality is peace. He also differentiated the peace that one attains before liberation at the Atma chakra [2nd point in the heart region] and the peace experienced beyond the 9th point.&nbsp; He said, “There is no solution in asking or praying for peace. Liberation is in our hands: no God or Guru can grant it if we are not deserving. So our only job is to become deserving individuals.”

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Daaji spent the day at Tiruppur, conducting meditation and question and answer sessions and meeting dignitaries. 

Tiruppur 21st October 2024

Despite the heavy downpour from the previous night, the ashram was serene and prepared for the day's events. After the meditation session, Daaji solemnized three weddings in a simple ceremony.&nbsp;<ul><li>Disha and Abhishek</li><li>Astha and Kshitij</li><li>Garima and Sandeep</li></ul>

He returned to the cottage for breakfast, joined by a few guests, including Dr. Kannan, affectionately known as ‘Sanskrit Kannan’ within the Heartfulness community. Their conversation revolved around Dr. Kannan's ongoing study of Vedic texts in the light of Heartfulness teachings, a rich dialogue blending ancient wisdom with the spiritual depth of the Heartfulness approach.

Later in the day, Daaji embarked on the journey to the next destination – Tiruppur. By the time he arrived at the DJ Park Ashram in Tiruppur in the evening, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and eagerness on behalf of the practitioners assembled there. While Daaji was conducting the evening meditation, it began to rain heavily. Many viewed this as a divine affirmation; as if the spiritual hierarchy above was rejoicing alongside the practitioners, their joy mirrored by the rain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Daaji was conducting the evening meditation, it began to rain heavily. Many viewed this as a divine affirmation; as if the spiritual hierarchy above was rejoicing alongside the practitioners, their joy mirrored by the rain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Daaji spent his day solemnizing weddings, discussing Vedic texts and traveling to Tiruppur. 

Chennai and Tiruppur 20th October 2024

Daaji began his day early, looking forward to continue his journey to Chennai. He invited a few Heartfulness practitioners to join him for breakfast, where they discussed plans for the days ahead.&nbsp;His first stop upon reaching Chennai was the Heartfulness International School, Omega branch. There, Daaji launched several important initiatives and took time to meet with school officials. During his speech, he shared his vision to open more such Heartfulness schools across India, calling upon educators within and outside the Heartfulness community to contribute to this noble cause.&nbsp;In response to student inquiries about following one's heart, Daaji answered with his characteristic warmth and clarity, encouraging the youth to trust their inner guidance which is greatly enhanced when nourished by a sincere Heartfulness practice. He explained how a meditative practice strengthens this inner connection, allowing one to navigate life with a deeper sense of purpose.

From there, Daaji proceeded to the Babuji Memorial Ashram in Manapakkam, where hundreds of Heartfulness practitioners from Chennai and nearby centers lined the roads, welcoming him with love and devotion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Daaji enjoyed a hearty South Indian lunch and after a brief rest, he conducted the evening meditation. Several celebrities from the Tamil film industry had been invited to experience Heartfulness meditation by Mr. N. Lingusamy, a Heartfulness trainer and renowned movie director.Daaji inaugurated the Tamil Nadu Youth Seminar with the theme ‘Awaken Your Inner Potential’ with an inspiring talk after meditation. This was followed by an engaging Q&amp;A session with the young participants. Daaji encouraged them to embrace Heartfulness practices with dedication, urging them to research the effects of following one’s heart versus ignoring it. He emphasized that with a consistent meditation routine, they could develop a courageous spirit capable of navigating life's challenges.

As Daaji made his way back to the cottage, a large crowd gathered, each one vying for his attention. Daaji often lovingly reminds everyone that there is no need to struggle for this external attention. He has mentioned that true connection arises from cultivating an inner state of deservingness, where the deep silence of the heart prepares one to receive Divine grace. In this state, the flow of yogic transmission becomes natural and automatic. He gently but firmly asked everyone to leave, before retiring to the cottage for a quiet dinner.This day was filled with moments of deep connection, reflection, and inspiration, as Daaji continued to share the message of Heartfulness with all those who came to meet him.

Daaji inaugurated the Tamil Nadu Youth Seminar with the theme ‘Awaken Your Inner Potential’ with an inspiring talk after meditation. This was followed by an engaging Q&amp;A session with the young participants. Daaji encouraged them to embrace Heartfulness practices with dedication, urging them to research the effects of following one’s heart versus ignoring it. He emphasized that with a consistent meditation routine, they could develop a courageous spirit capable of navigating life's challenges.

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This day was filled with moments of deep connection, reflection, and inspiration, as Daaji continued to share the message of Heartfulness with all those who came to meet him.

Thiruvallur and Chennai 19th October 2024

The following morning saw Daaji rise early to meet more practitioners who with eager hearts had gathered at the hotel to greet him before he left for the venue. The day began with a group meditation, where Daaji, with his signature calm, shared what he had felt during the meditation in his heart. He beautifully explained how once we begin our yogic practice, it is crucial to bring it to completion. Often, it is the unfinished tasks that leaves us with the trauma of regret and guilt, which can be practically impossible to erase.His thoughts flowed like a calm river carrying a deep current of spiritual insight. Leading a holistic lifestyle has been a central theme in Daaji’s talks and work. He emphasized the importance of working on ourselves, making sure not to leave anything unfinished: for a sincere yogi, it is important to note that doing the right thing is a triumph, but neglecting to do the right thing at the right moment can be far more detrimental to one’s spiritual progress.The essence of Heartfulness is to live without creating unnecessary&nbsp;samskaras or mental impressions that weigh us down on our spiritual journey.&nbsp;Akarma, which translates from Sanskrit as action performed with pure love and without attachment, is the ideal state for a spiritual aspirant. The riddles of life – what to do, what not to do, and how to live in the best way – were unraveled by Daaji with ease, making the profound seem simple and achievable.Daaji spoke about the need for self-restraint and how living a life absorbed in divine remembrance can reduce the need for the evening Heartfulness Cleaning practice. When we are truly absorbed in the presence of the Divine, we think and perform actions without creating new imprints on our consciousness. This intensity of practice can help us lead a life of inner peace and harmony.Before leaving, Daaji said that he would have stayed a few days longer if he could have. However, he promised to return soon. He shared how a spiritual guide finds joy in being with sincere and absorbing hearts, ready to deepen their practice and apply the teachings of Heartfulness in their daily lives.

On his way, Daaji made a surprise visit to a Heartfulness trainer’s sari shop. By the time he reached Thiruvallur, Chennai had recovered enough from the heavy rains, and preparations were in full swing to receive him. Interestingly, the rain seemed to follow him, pouring down in Hosur and Vellore after his departure, as though nature itself was in tune with the spiritual energy he emanates. Several thousand practitioners from nearby centers had gathered there, their hearts open and ready to receive their beloved guide.After entering the cottage, Daaji went to his room for a quiet moment to offer&nbsp;prasad. [Sweets offered with an attitude of reverence and in remembrance of the Divine. The sweets are divinized by this infusion of love and reverence, creating an osmosis between what is offered and the one to whom it is being offered.]&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After the prasad was distributed, the practitioners made their way to the hall for a meditation session while Daaji took some much-needed rest. Over high tea, Daaji met with a few practitioners, before making his way to inaugurate the Heartfulness International School in Thiruvalllur.&nbsp;This special moment was marked by the first official admission to the school, which was performed by Daaji personally. He then conducted another group meditation in the main hall, followed by a lively and engaging interaction with the practitioners gathered there. Later during dinner, Daaji met with more practitioners before retiring for the night.&nbsp;

Daaji spoke about the need for self-restraint and how living a life absorbed in divine remembrance can reduce the need for the evening Heartfulness Cleaning practice. When we are truly absorbed in the presence of the Divine, we think and perform actions without creating new imprints on our consciousness. This intensity of practice can help us lead a life of inner peace and harmony.

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Daaji’s day was filled with sessions and meetings with abhyasis and his travel from Hosur and Vellore to Thiruvallur.

Vellore and Thiruvallur 18th October 2024

On Thursday, October 17, Daaji conducted meditation after which the atmosphere felt charged with deep absorption. This was followed by an inspiring talk from Daaji.&nbsp;He said, “During this meditation, some new guidelines were pouring into my heart from above, and I’m simply awestruck witnessing those dictations, which were not in words but in gestures. One gesture was about when in our country, in our culture, when we were encouraged to touch our parents’ feet. We did&nbsp;Sashtang Namaskaram&nbsp;[a yoga pose where the body is balanced on eight points of contact with the floor: feet, knees, hands, the chest, and either the chin or forehead] to our parents, our elder sisters and brothers, our uncles and aunts, and guests who visited our homes. Babuji says that it is time to revive that tradition, at least within our Heartfulness community. This will trigger mutual love and respect within the family.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Imagine that you get up early in the morning and touch your parents’ feet very respectfully, with a lot of love and reverence. Even if you fought the day before, this very act will dissolve your pain, your guilt, and all the sadness that you may have carried in your heart. Try it, and see what happens.&nbsp;“Secondly, it is wonderful when both husband and wife are meditating, but it is even better when they practice meditation together every morning. In Indian society, we are used to women waking up early, performing household chores, and being very busy in the kitchen. Husbands should also get up early and meditate together with their wives beforehand. It will change the vibrations in the house.“Thirdly, Babuji wants us to exercise.&nbsp;“Contemplate on the stages of thinking to remembrance to frequent remembrance to constant remembrance to remaining absorbed in the remembrance of the Lord in all our day-to-day activities; and if you can go beyond just thinking, remembering, remaining absorbed, drowned in His remembrance, the next stage will automatically open up – being lost in the remembrance of the Lord.&nbsp;“Think over these steps, and how we can dive into that state of being lost in the remembrance of the Lord.”

When Daaji was leaving the meditation hall, Mr. Vinayagam lovingly invited Daaji to come to Chennai Silks [chain of retail textile shops in South India] where breakfast had also been arranged. Daaji accepted this invite graciously and visited a large Chennai Silks shop on the main road of Hosur, where many guests and hundreds of employees were thrilled by his arrival.&nbsp;Among those present, were dignitaries from the World Peace Trust, including two trustees of the organization, Mr. Viswanathan and Mr. Murthy. Daaji spoke with them about the intricate relationship between belief, experience, and the cultivation of inner peace. He suggested that while belief in God can be a starting point, true and lasting peace is attained through direct experience of the Divine. This experiential connection deepens one’s sense of peace and solidifies faith by replacing doubt with certainty.&nbsp;Daaji emphasized the importance of meditation and the shedding of old habits in the journey toward inner peace. He stressed upon the Heartfulness Cleaning practice, its pivotal role in helping us remove our weaknesses and negative tendencies, and the 9 pm Universal Prayer where we pray for peace, harmony and well-being of all in the world.&nbsp;Daaji also spoke about renunciation, suggesting that true peace may require letting go of even the desire for spiritual experiences. Clinging to these experiences, however blissful, can be a subtle obstacle to ultimate peace.This interesting conversation was characteristic of Daaji's multifaceted approach to peace, where he uses analogies that everyone can relate to, simplifying the otherwise complicated philosophical concept of God, and most importantly, suggesting solutions to experience inner peace without hurting anyone’s religious sentiments.&nbsp;

After breakfast Daaji conducted meditation for all the Chennai Silks staff members and guests, following which he browsed through various sections of the shop, happy to be shown around, asking the odd question now and then, much to the delight of the staff members who accompanied him.&nbsp;After this enlightening visit, Daaji proceeded toward Krishnagiri, which is part of the Hosur zone. Despite the intense heat, Daaji conducted a meditation session immediately upon his arrival at noon, and another one at 4.30 pm.&nbsp;When Daaji was leaving the meditation venue, he noticed around a 100 Anganwadi workers [associated with Govt. of India-sponsored child and mother care centers] who were wearing identical pink saris. He paused and inquired about their attire. They were thrilled to meet Daaji up close and interact personally with him. Daaji then invited them to have a group photo with him. This simple gesture touched their hearts in a very profound manner. It was indeed moving to witness Daaji’s heartfelt response to their affection.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Daaji left for Vellore and arrived there after a two-hour drive. He was received with police honors and escorted to the venue. The hearts of the Vellore practitioners, full of yearning, moved Daaji so much that he skipped going his room to rest saying, "I want to conduct meditation right away."&nbsp; After the session, Daaji retired to the hotel where he was staying.&nbsp;

“Contemplate on the stages of thinking to remembrance to frequent remembrance to constant remembrance to remaining absorbed in the remembrance of the Lord in all our day-to-day activities; and if you can go beyond just thinking, remembering, remaining absorbed, drowned in His remembrance, the next stage will automatically open up – being lost in the remembrance of the Lord. Think over these steps, and how we can dive into that state of being lost in the remembrance of the Lord.”

Daaji-speaking

Daaji’s day was eventful with his time in Hosur, visit to Krishnagiri and then finally, reaching Vellore. 

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