FELIZ DÍA DE RAMA...
03 de abr 2009 Sai Kulwant Hall – Prasanthi Nilayam
Aum Sri SaiRam
¡DESARROLLEN SU AMOR Y CONSIDEREN A TODOS COMO HERMANOS Y HERMANAS!
03 de Abril de 2009
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Sai Kulwant Hall – Prasanthi Nilayam
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HERMANOS Y HERMANAS!
Más dulce que el azúcar, más sabroso que la cuajada, más dulce en verdad que
La miel es el Nombre de Rama.
La repetición constante de este dulce nombre le da a uno el sabor del mismo néctar divino.
Por lo tanto, contemplen en el Nombre de Rama incesantemente.
(Poema en Telugú)
Bharat es la patria de muchas nobles almas que han ganado renombre y fama a través de todos los continentes del mundo.
Esta es la tierra de gentes valerosas que vencieran a los regentes extranjeros en el campo de batalla y alcanzaron la independencia.
Esta es la tierra que se ha distinguido en música, literatura y otras bellas artes.
Habiendo nacido en esta gran tierra de Bharat, ¡OH muchachos y muchachas,es vuestro deber sagrado el proteger su rico legado cultural!
(Poema en Telugú)
Los bharatiyas (indios) de hoy no conocen su grandeza, lo mismo que el elefante no conoce su propia fuerza. Obedece las órdenes del cornaca y se sienta cuando éste le pide que se sienta y se para cuando se le pide que lo haga. De la misma manera los bharatiyas están imitando la cultura occidental bajo la influencia de la educación occidental.
Los bharatiyas han sido provistos de grandes potencialidades, y sus corazones están llenos de devoción. No hay nadie entre ellos que no cante el divino nombre desde su mismo nacimiento. Ellos nombran a sus hijos con los varios nombres de Dios para así recordar a Dios todo el tiempo. No hay aldea en Bharat donde no haya un templo de Rama. Los aldeanos hasta en los más pequeños caseríos, elevan un santuario a Rama, Lakshmana, y Sita en un pequeño cobertizo y alguna morada rústica para la adoración secular.
Desde el comienzo, los bharatiyas le dieron más importancia a la espiritualidad que a las ocupaciones mundanas y materiales. El principal factor responsable por la paz y el progreso de Bharat es la devoción de los bharatiyas por Dios. En la actualidad, muchos países del mundo están presa de grandes problemas y dificultades, pero Bharat está con mucho libre de tales dificultades. La gente de Bharat puede tener algunos problemas financieros, pero están llevando sus vidas felices entregándose totalmente a la voluntad de Dios.
Los bharatiyas ponen su confianza en el Ser como base de su vida más que en las posesiones, bienes y riquezas materiales. De hecho, su vida entera está basada en esta confianza, y han alcanzado el progreso a pesar de duchas dificultades y privaciones. Habiendo basado su vida en la confianza en el Ser, ¡cómo pueden los bharatiyas darle importancia alguna a los objetos mundanos y materiales? Aun en su conversación diaria, se refieren a su Ser diciendo, “Sólo mi Atmarama sabe esto”.
No limiten a Rama o Krishna a un nombre o forma particular. Estos nombres les fueron dados después de su nacimiento. No nacieron con estos nombres. Los bharatiyas se han dado cuenta de que Dios es el residente en el corazón del hombre. Por esto son capaces de resistir a todas las dificultades y sufrimientos y llevar sus vidas felices. “Uno debe permanece ecuánime en la felicidad y la aflicción, la ganancia y la pérdida, la victoria y la derrota” (Sukha-dukhe same kritvâ lâbhâlâbhau jayâjayau), dice el Gita. El placer y el dolor son parte de la vida humana. Siempre que los bharatiyas tienen que enfrentar aflicciones y dificultades, las han considerado como presagios de felicidad. Han alcanzado altas posiciones debido a tan nobles sentimientos.
Su fe en Dios es inconmovible aun en el caso de catástrofes tales como estallidos de bombas, inundaciones y caídas de aviones. Los que basan su vida en la fe en Dios nunca encuentran aflicciones, sufrimientos y dificultades. Sus dificultades vendrán y se irán como las nubes pasajeras.
El que nace en este mundo está seguro de morir un día u otro. Nada es permanente en este mundo. Lo único que es permanente es el Atma o Ser. La gente aspira a la liberación, al cielo y a Vaikuntha, pero ni siquiera ellos son permanentes. Lo único que es permanente es el Atma, y esa es la única verdad. Pueden ver muchas formas en este mundo, pero ninguna de ellas es permanente, salvo el Atma.
Estudiemos ahora el Ramayana. Dasharatha tenía tres esposas: Kaushalya, Sumitra, y Kaikeyi. Kaushalya la primera dio nacimiento a una niña que fue nombrada Santha. Dasharatha la regaló a uno de sus amigos quien la adoptó como su hija. Ella fue casada con el Sabio Rishashringa, el que llevó a cabo el sacrificio del Putrakameshti de Dasharatha para la obtención de un hijo. Cuando las oblaciones fueron ofrecidas en el fuego del sacrificio con el cantar de los mantras apropiados para el Yajña, un ser refulgente salió del fuego y entregó a Dasharatha un recipiente que contenía un budín dulce (payasam) con la instrucción de distribuirlo en partes iguales entre sus esposas.
En consecuencia, Dasharatha distribuyó el payasam a Kaushalya, Sumitra y Kaikeyi. Kaushalya y Kaikeyi se llevaron su parte del budín a sus respectivos santuarios. Ellas estaban felices pensando que su hijo sería el futuro rey de Ayodhya. Pero Sumitra no tenía tales pretensiones. Ella era un parangón de virtudes. Su nombre, “Su-mitra”, significa que ella era una buena amiga para todos. Ella llevó su vasija de budín a la terraza y la colocó en el parapeto mientras se estaba secando el pelo en el sol. De repente, un águila se abalanzó y se llevó la vasija. Sumitra corrió e informó a Kaushalya y Kaikeyi acerca de lo sucedido. Kaushalya y Kaikeyi vinieron en su ayuda y compartieron sus respectivos budines con ella. Kaushalya dio la mitad de su parte a Sumitra y Kaikeyi hizo lo mismo.
Con el debido tiempo, Kaushalya dio nacimiento a Rama, Kaikeyi a Bharata, y Sumitra a Lakshmana y Shatrughna. Kaushalya y Kaikeyi tuvieron un hijo cada una, mientras que Sumitra tuvo dos hijos. Los hijos de Kaushalya y Kaikeyi estaban felices jugando en sus cunas mientras que los hijos de Sumitra lloraban todo el tiempo y no tomada su leche. Sumitra estaba perpleja por conocer la razón de su llanto. Finalmente, fue con el Sabio Vasishta y le contó su problema.
El Sabio Vasishta cerró sus ojos en meditación. Su visión yóguica le permitió conocer la verdad. Él dijo a Sumitra, “Como tú tomaste del budín sagrado dado por Kaushalya, diste nacimiento a Lakshmana que es un amsa, una parte de Rama. Similarmente, Shatrughna nación de la parte de budín que te dio Kaikeyi, así que él es parte de Bharata. Pon a Lakshmana al lado de Rama y Shatrughna al lado de Bharata. Entonces dormirán apaciblemente.”
Sumitra siguió las instrucciones de Vasishta. Los niños Lakshmana y Shatrughna dejaron de llorar y empezaron a jugar felices en sus cunas. Esta era la base de la íntima relación entre Rama y Lakshmana, Bharata y Shatrughna. Ambos hijos de Sumitra, o sea, Lakshmana y Shatrughna, estaban siempre en la compañía de Rama y de Bharata. De esta manera, los cuatro hijos de Dasharatha crecieron en un ambiente de amor y felicidad. Sumitra estaba muy feliz porque ella pensaba que cuando crecieran su hijo Lakshmana serviría a Rama y Shatrughna, a Bharata.
¿Dónde nació Rama? Muchas personas tienen muchas dudas acerca del lugar de Su nacimiento. Él nació en Ayodhya. ¿Fue la ciudad de Ayodhya construida por algún mortal ordinario? No, no, no. Fue construida por Vishvakarma (el divino arquitecto) mismo. Él la construyó de tal manera que no pudiera entrar ningún enemigo en ella.
Cuando Rama ganó la mano de Sita al tender el arco de Shiva en la corte de Janaka, Su matrimonio con Sita se llevó a cabo en Mithila entre grandes regocijos. La gente de Mithila estaba fuera de sí de alegría y cantaban alegres canciones.
Bienvenidos a todos por el matrimonio de Rama;
Junto vamos a presenciar la feliz escena.
Muchos ya se han reunido,
Vestidos con todas sus galas.
Con collares están las damas adornadas
De joyas puras y brillantes.
Rama atará hoy el nudo
A la hermosa Sita, ¡Oh, Qué hermosa pareja hacen!
El Padre Dasharatha ha ordenado abundantes festejos.
Todos los letrados y sabios están reunidos con Vasishta presidiendo.
¡Oh, qué multitud se ha reunido
Para regocijarse, con los corazones rebosando de alegría.
El matrimonio de la santa pareja de Rama y Sita
Una tal vista es en verdad rara.
La vista conferirá gran mérito.
Rama se ve como la fresca luna llena,
Y Sita es su correspondiente doble.
El compasivo Rama, que ama a todos,
Conferirá su gracia sobre todos nosotros.
Vengan rápido para ver el sagrado matrimonio de Rama y Sita.
(Canción en telugu)
Parecía que toda la población de Ayodhya hubiera venido a Mithila para presenciar el matrimonio de Sita y Rama. Dasharatha, con todos sus ministros y todos los miembros de la familia participaron en el matrimonio. Después de la función del matrimonio, todos salieron para Ayodhya.
En el camino oyeron un ruido ensordecedor. Cuando miraron alrededor buscando de dónde venía el sonido, fueron confrontados por Parashurama, quien se veía muy temible. Todos quedaron perturbados y empezaron a pensar, “¿Qué significa este gran impedimento después de la gloriosa celebración de los matrimonios?” Lo bueno y lo malo siempre se vienen siguiendo. Después de experimentar gran alegría en Mithila, estaban confrontados con una situación difícil en su camino a Ayodhya. Dasharatha y otros quedaron presa del temor.
Parashurama se adelantó y preguntó, “¿Quién rompió el arco de Shiva?”
“Yo fui”, dijo Rama.
“Si es así, veamos si tú pueden doblar mi arco.” Diciendo esto, Parashurama puso su arco en las manos de Rama. Rama lo templó y armó el arco con una flecha con Su mano izquierda. Viendo esto, Parashurama ofreció sus salutaciones a Rama y se fue.
Experimentando la alegría de la victoria, todos ellos llegaron a Ayodhya y participaron con gran alegría y entusiasmo en las festividades que se llevaron a cabo allí. La gente de Ayodhya realizó alegres celebraciones.
Como su madre Sumitra, la esposa de Lakshmana, Urmila, era también una mujer de grandes virtudes. Cuando Lakshmana fue a informarla de que él estaba acompañando a Rama a la selva por catorce años, ella dijo, “es tu buena fortuna. Considera a Sita y a Rama como tu madre y padre y sírveles. En Ayodhya tienes a Kaushalya, Sumitra y Kaikeyi, pero en la selva tienes una sola madre y es Sita. Olvídame y sirve a Sita y a Rama con total dedicación.”
Lakshmana estuvo feliz de escuchar estas palabras de Urmila y se dijo para sí, “¡Qué esposa tan virtuosa tengo!”
Después de la salida de Rama, Lakshmana y Sita a la selva y la muerte de Dasharatha, Bharata regresó a Ayodhya. Cuando se le ofreció la corona de Ayodhya, él rehusó aceptarla diciendo que era derecho únicamente del hijo mayor y que por tanto iría a la selva y le rogaría a Rama para que regresara y gobernara a Ayodhya.
Cuando él fue a la selva para apelar a Rama, Rama le dijo, “Debemos seguir el mandato de nuestro padre. Sin esto, nuestra vida es inútil.” Rama le prometió a Bharata que él regresaría a Ayodhya después del período de 14 años de su exilio. Bharata le pidió a Rama que le diera sus sandalias, para que él pudiera colocarlas en el trono y adorarlas. A su regreso a Ayodhya, Bharata no entró al palacio. Él vivía en una pequeña cabaña la vida de un renunciante, lo mismo que Rama estaba viviendo en la selva.
Durante la permanencia de Rama, Lakshmana y Sita en Panchavati, Ravana vino disfrazado de mendigo y raptó a Sita. Rama fue puesto en grandes dificultades, pero él las enfrentó sonriente.
Hanuman fue a Lanka en busca de Sita. Él pudo cruzar el océano con el poder del nombre divino de Rama. De hecho, cualquier estupenda tarea puede lograrse contemplando en el nombre de Rama. Fue con el poder del nombre de Rama que los monos construyeron el puente a través del océano para que Rama y su ejército pudieran llegar a Lanka.
Rama tuvo que luchar con Ravana, el rey de los demonios. En el curso de la batalla, Lakshmana fue herido por un misil y cayó inconsciente. Rama estaba muy afligido y se lamentaba, “yo puedo obtener una esposa como Sita, pero no puedo obtener un hermano como Lakshmana”. Entonces Hanuman trajo a Sushena, el experto médico de Lanka, quien dijo,”Hay una hierba llamada Sanjivini en una montaña en la región de los Himalayas. Si traes esa hierba, Lakshmana podrá ser reavivado.
Hanuman fue enviado a traer la hierba Sanjivini para revivir a Lakshmana. Hanuman no sabía cómo reconocer esa hierba particular. Así que él levantó la montaña completa sobre la cual existía la hierba y la colocó delante de Rama. Con la ayuda de la hierba, Lakshmana fue reanimado.
Rama lo abrazó y dicho, “Lakshmana, mi vida carece de sentido sin ti. Tú siempre has estado conmigo y me has protegido de muchas maneras. No hay nada más querido para mí que tú en este mundo De hecho, tú eres realmente mi vida.”
Rama finalmente mató a Ravana y rescató a Sita de su prisión.
Mientras tanto el período de catorce años de exilio de Rama se había terminado. Al acercarse el final de los catorce años y Bharata no viendo señales del regreso de Rama a Ayodhya, se alistó para abandonar su vida inmolándose en una pira. Como Rama había anticipado la situación, él envió a Hanuman adelante para informar a Bharata que él estaba en camino de regreso a Ayodhya. Bharata estuvo se llenó de alegría al oír esta buena noticia. Toda la gente de Ayodhya así como Bharata y la familia entera esperaban ansiosamente la llegada de Rama a Ayodhya.
Cuando Rama, Lakshmana y Sita se bajaron del vehículo Pushpaka Vimana, Bharata y toda la gente de Ayodhya les ofrecieron un gran bienvenida. Pronto después de la llegada de Rama a Ayodhya, se hicieron los arreglos para su coronación. El pueblo de Ayodhya estaba lleno de entusiasmo antes la perspectiva de Rama volviéndose su rey.
Los estudiantes acaban de cantar esta canción,
“Kaushalyatmaja Rama Charan,
Vaidehi Priya Rama Charan,
Hanumatsevita Rama Charan,
Bharatarchita Shri Rama Charan,
Ahalyoddharaka Rama Charan,
Lakshmana Levita Rama Charan,
Prashanti Niketana Rama Charan”
“Adoren siempre los Pies de Loto de Rama, hijo de Kaushalya, querido de Sita, adorados por Bharata, y en la morada de Prashanti, servido por Lakshmana y Hanuman y que redimieron a Ahalya.” (fuertes aplausos)
Lakshmana se llenó de alegría al oír las bondadosas palabras de Rama. Rama sentía un gran amor por Lakshmana, más que por cualquier otra persona. Similarmente, Lakshmana amaba mucho a Rama. Él nunca desobedecía el mandato de Rama. De hecho, todos los hermanos, – Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata y Shatrughna – sentían un gran amor los unos por los otros. Gobernaban a Ayodhya con gran unidad. Rama no era el único que administraba el reino; todos sus hermanos le ayudaban en la conducción de los asuntos del reino.
El Ramayana nos enseña muchas lecciones de moralidad y ética. De hecho, todos los personajes de esta gran epopeya presentan grandes ideales a seguir para la humanidad. Más dulce que el azúcar, más sabroso de la cuajada, más dulce en verdad que la miel es el Nombre de Rama. ¿Hay algo más grande que el Nombre de Rama? Debemos comprender esta verdad y contemplar en Su nombre todos los días.
Las grandes epopeyas como El Ramayana y El Mahabharata nos enseñan muchos valores morales y éticos. La verdad es el más grande de estos valores. “No hay dharma mayor que la adherencia a la verdad” (“Satyannasti paro dharma”). El dharma nace de la verdad (satya), del dharma emerge la paz, y de la paz emerge el amor. Donde hay amor no puede haber odio. El que siente amor no se adherirá a la no-violencia.
La verdad (satya), el deber (dharma), la paz (shanti), el amor (prema) y la no-violencia (ahimsa) son los cinco valores humanos cardinales. El que practica estos valores humanos es un ser humano en el verdadero sentido del término. El que carece siquiera de uno de éstos no puede ser llamado un ser humano perfecto. Por lo tanto, debemos desarrollar todos estos cinco valores.
Desafortunadamente, cuando miramos el escenario actual, no vemos la verdad por ninguna parte, y ni siquiera oímos la palabra ‘dharma’, deber. Por lo tanto, el hombre está hoy acosado por la intranquilidad. La gente quiere paz, ¡pero lo que obtienen son sólo pedazos! [Juego de palabras en que la palabra ‘paz’, ‘peace’ en inglés se pronuncia casi igual a la palabra ‘pedazos’, ‘pieces’. N. de la T.] Debido a la falta de paz, el amor se ha vuelto inexistente en el hombre.
Por lo tanto, deben desarrollar la paz. Entonces sólo se desarrollará el amor en nosotros. Cuando el amor toma raíz en nosotros, no tendremos enemigos. Entonces todos se volverán nuestros amigos. Por esto el hombre debe desarrollar el amor y considerar a todos como sus hermanos y hermanas. Esta es la esencia primordial del Ramayana.
Es sólo para demostrar este principio del amor que he hecho este proyecto de vivienda en Orissa. Debemos amar y ayudarnos los unos a los otros. La calamidad que les ha acaecido puede ocurrirle a cualquiera. Cuando los hacen felices, ustedes también serán felices. Así que todos deben ser unidos.
Que nos movamos todos juntos, que crezcamos todos juntos
Que nos quedemos unidos y crezcamos juntos en inteligencia,
Que todos vivamos juntos con amistad y armonía.
(Canción en telugú)
Solamente si crecemos en inteligencia juntos podrá haber unidad. Debemos movernos y trabajar con unidad. Nadie debe odiar a nadie. Si surge algún pensamiento de odio dentro de ustedes por un momento, deséchenlo y desarrollen el sentimiento de unidad en el siguiente momento. Sólo el amor puede unirlos a todos.
(Bhagavan concluyó Su discurso con el bhajan, “Prema Mudita Manase Kaho Rama Rama Ram…)
Fuente: www.sssbpt.org
Traducción: Arlette Meyer
NUESTRA VIDA ES SU MENSAJE
OMSAIRAMMM
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HAPPY DAY OF RAMA...
DEVELOP LOVE AND CONSIDER ALL AS BROTHERS AND SISTERS...
April 03, 2009
Sweeter than sugar, tastier than curd, sweeter indeed than honey is the Name of Rama. Constant repetition of this sweet name gives one the taste of divine nectar itself. Therefore, one should contemplate on the name of Rama incessantly. (Telugu poem)
Bharat is the motherland of many noble souls who earned great name and fame in all the continents of the world. This is the land of valorous people who vanquished foreign rulers and attained independence. This is the land that excelled in music, literature, and other fine arts. Having been born in this great land of Bharat, oh boys and girls, it is your sacred duty to protect its rich cultural heritage.
(Telugu poem)
The Bharatiyas (Indians) today do not know their greatness, just as the elephant does not know its own strength. It obeys the command of the mahout and sits when he asks it to sit and stands when it is asked to do so. In the same manner, the Bharatiyas are imitating the western culture under the influence of western education.
The Bharatiyas are endowed with great potentialities, and their hearts are full of devotion. There is none among them who does not chant the divine name from their very birth. They name their children after the various names of God, thereby remembering God all the time. There is no village in Bharat where there is no temple of Rama. Villagers of all small hamlets, even, set up a shrine for Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita in a little hutment or some rustic abode for regular worship.
Right from the beginning, the Bharatiyas gave more importance to spirituality than to worldly and material pursuits. The main factor that is responsible for the peace and progress of Bharat is the devotion of the Bharatiyas for God. At present, many countries of the world are in the grip of great problems and difficulties. But Bharat is by far free from such difficulties. The people of Bharat may have some financial problems, but they are happily leading their lives totally surrendering to the will of God.
The Bharatiyas place their trust in the Self as the basis of their life rather than material possessions, property, and wealth. In fact, their entire life is based on this trust, and they have achieved progress in spite of many difficulties and deprivations. Having based their life on the trust in the Self, how can the Bharatiyas give any importance to worldly and materialistic pursuits? Even in their day-to-day conversation, they refer to their Self, saying, “Only my Atmarama knows this.”
Do not limit Rama or Krishna to a particular name or form. These names were given to them after their birth. They were not born with these names. The Bharatiyas have realised the truth that God is the resident of man’s heart. That is why they are able to withstand all difficulties and sufferings and lead their lives happily. Sukhadukhe samekruthwa labhalabhau jayajayau (one should remain equal-minded in happiness and sorrow, gain and loss, victory and defeat), says the Gita. Pleasure and pain are part of human life. Whenever Bharatiyas have to encounter sorrows and difficulties, they consider them as the harbingers of happiness. They have attained exalted positions due to such noble feelings.
Their faith in God is unshakeable even in the face of mishaps such as bomb blasts, floods, and plane crashes. Those who base their life with faith in God will never encounter sorrows, suffering, and difficulties. Their difficulties will come and go like passing clouds.
One who is born in this world is sure to die one day or the other. Nothing is permanent in this world. Only one thing is permanent and that is the Atma or the Self. People aspire for liberation, heaven, and Vaikuntha, but even they are not permanent. The only thing that is permanent is the Atma, and that is the only truth. You may see so many forms in this world, but none of them is permanent except the Atma.
Let us now dwell upon the Ramayana. Dasaratha had three wives: Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. Kausalya first gave birth to a female child, who was named Santha. Dasaratha gave her to one of his friends, who adopted her as his daughter. She was married to Sage Rishyasringa, who conducted the Putrakameshti Yajna of Dasaratha. When oblations were offered in the sacrificial fire with the chanting of related mantras for the Yajna, an effulgent being came out of the fire and handed over a vessel containing payasam (sweet pudding) to Dasaratha with the instruction to distribute it equally among his queens.
Accordingly, Dasaratha distributed the payasam to Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. Kausalya and Kaikeyi took their share of the pudding to their respective puja rooms. Each of them was happy, thinking that her son would be the future king of Ayodhya.
But Sumitra had no such claims. She was a paragon of virtues. Her name, ‘Su-mitra’, itself signifies that she was a good friend to one and all. She carried her bowl of pudding to the terrace and placed it on the parapet wall while drying her hair in the sun. Suddenly, an eagle swooped down and carried away the bowl. Sumitra rushed down and informed Kausalya and Kaikeyi about what had happened. Kausalya and Kaikeyi came to her rescue and shared their pudding with her. Kausalya gave half of her share to Sumitra. Kaikeyi also did the same.
In due course, Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikeyi to Bharata, and Sumitra to Lakshmana and Satrughna. Kausalya and Kaikeyi had one son each, whereas Sumitra had two sons. The sons of Kausalya and Kaikeyi were happily playing in their cradles while Sumitra’s sons were crying all the time, and were not taking milk. Sumitra was at a loss to know the reason for their crying. Ultimately, she went to Sage Vasishtha and told him about her predicament.
Sage Vasishtha closed his eyes in meditation. His yogic vision enabled him to know the truth. He said to Sumitra, “As you partook of the sacred pudding given by Kausalya, you gave birth to Lakshmana who is an amsa (part) of Rama. Similarly, Satrughna is born out of the share of pudding given to you by Kaikeyi. So, he is a part of Bharata. Put Lakshmana by the side of Rama and Satrughna by the side of Bharata. Then they will rest peacefully.”
Sumitra did as instructed by Vasishtha. Both Lakshmana and Satrughna stopped crying and started playing blissfully in their cradles. This was the basis of the intimate relationship between Rama and Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna. Both sons of Sumitra, namely, Lakshmana and Satrughna, were always in the company of Rama and Bharata. In this manner, Dasaratha’s four sons grew up in an environment of love and happiness. Sumitra was very happy because she thought her son Lakshmana would serve Rama and Satrughna would serve Bharata when they grew up.
Where was Rama born? Many people have many doubts about the place of His birth. He was born in Ayodhya. Was the city of Ayodhya built by some ordinary mortal? No, no. It was built by Viswakarma (divine architect) himself. He built it in such a way that no enemy could enter it.
When Rama won the hand of Sita by stringing the bow of Siva in the court of Janaka, His marriage with Sita was performed in Mithila amidst great rejoicings. The people of Mithila were beside themselves with joy and sang merry songs.
Welcome to all for Rama’s wedding;
together we shall witness the joyous scene.
Many have gathered already,
decked up in all their finery.
With necklaces the ladies are adorned
of jewels pure and gleaming.
Rama shall tie the knot today
to beauteous Sita, oh what a fine match they make.
Father Dasaratha has made ready bounteous feasts.
All learned sages are assembled with Vasishtha presiding.
Oh, what a multitude has assembled
to rejoice, hearts with joy overflowing.
Wedding of the holy pair
Rama and Sita, such a sight is indeed rare.
The sight shall confer great merit.
Rama looks the cool full moon,
and Sita is a matching double.
The compassionate Rama, who loves all,
will confer his grace on us all.
Come quickly to see the holy wedding of Rama and Sita. (Telugu song)
It seemed as if the entire population of Ayodhya had come to Mithila to witness the marriage of Sita and Rama. Dasaratha, all his ministers, and all family members prominently participated in the marriage. After the marriage function, all left for Ayodhya.
On the way, they heard a deafening sound. When they looked around to find where the sound had come from, they were confronted with Parasurama, who looked very fierce. All of them were perturbed and began to think, “What is this great impediment after the glorious celebration of the marriages?” Good and bad always follow each other. After experiencing great joy in Mithila, they were confronted with a difficult situation on their way to Ayodhya. Dasaratha and others became fear-stricken.
Parasurama came forward and asked, “Who broke the Siva bow?”
“It is I who has done it,” said Rama.
“If that is so, let us see if you can bend my bow.” Saying so, Parasurama gave his bow in the hands of Rama. Rama strung and armed that bow with an arrow with His left hand. Seeing that, Parasurama offered his salutations to Rama and went his way.
Experiencing the joy of victory, all of them reached Ayodhya and participated with great joy and enthusiasm in the festivities held there. The people of Ayodhya held joyous celebrations.
Like his mother, Sumitra, Lakshmana’s wife Urmila was also a woman of great virtues. When Lakshmana went to inform her that he was accompanying Rama to the forest for fourteen years, she said, “It is your greatest good fortune. Consider Sita and Rama as your mother and father and serve them. In Ayodhya you have Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi, but in the forest you have only one mother, and that is Sita. Forget me and serve Sita and Rama with total dedication.”
Lakshmana was happy to hear these words of Urmila and said to himself, “What a virtuous wife I have!”
After the departure of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita to the forest and the death of Dasaratha, Bharata came back to Ayodhya. When he was offered the crown of Ayodhya, he refused to accept it, saying that it was the right of only the eldest son and hence he would go to the forest and pray to Rama to come back and rule Ayodhya.
When he went to the forest to appeal to Rama, Rama told him, “We have to follow the command of our father. Without that, our life itself is a zero.” Rama promised Bharata that he would surely return to Ayodhya after the period of 14 years of his exile. Bharat requested Rama to give His sandals, which he would place on the throne and worship them. On his return to Ayodhya, Bharata did not enter the palace. He lived in a small hut and led the life of a renunciant, just as Rama was living in the forest.
During the sojourn of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita at Panchavati, Ravana came in the guise of a mendicant and abducted Sita. Rama was put to great difficulties, but He faced all difficulties smilingly.
Hanuman went in search of Sita to Lanka. He could cross the ocean with the power of the divine name of Rama. In fact, any stupendous task can be achieved by contemplating on the name of Rama. It was with the power of Rama’s name that the monkeys made the bridge over the ocean so that Rama and His army could reach Lanka.
Rama had to fight with Ravana, the king of demons. In the course of battle, Lakshmana was hit by a missile and became unconscious. Rama was very much distressed, and he lamented, “I may get a wife like Sita, but I cannot get a brother like Lakshmana.” Then Hanuman brought Sushena, the medical expert of Lanka, who said, “There is a herb called Sanjivini on a mountain in the Himalayan region. If you bring that herb, Lakshmana can be revived.”
Hanuman was sent to bring the Sanjivini herb to revive Lakshmana. Hanuman did not know how to recognise that particular herb. Therefore, he lifted the whole mountain on which the herb existed and placed it before Rama. With the help of the herb, Lakshmana was revived.
Rama hugged him and said, “Lakshmana, My life is meaningless without you. You have always been with Me and protected Me in many ways. There is nothing more dear to Me than you in this world. In fact, you are verily My life.”
Rama ultimately killed Ravana and rescued Sita from his prison.
Meanwhile the period of fourteen years of exile of Rama was over. As the end of fourteen years drew near and Bharata could not see any signs of Rama’s return to Ayodhya, he got ready to give up his life by immolating himself on a pyre. As Rama had anticipated the situation, he sent Hanuman in advance to inform Bharata that He was on His way back to Ayodhya. Bharata was overjoyed on hearing this good news. All the people of Ayodhya as also Bharata and the entire family were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Rama in Ayodhya.
When Rama, Lakshmana and Sita alighted from the Pushpaka Vimana, Bharata and all the people of Ayodhya offered them a hearty welcome. Soon after the arrival of Rama in Ayodhya, arrangements for His coronation were made. The people of Ayodhya were full of enthusiasm at the prospect of Rama becoming their king.
The students just now sang this song,
“Kausalyatmaja Rama Charan, Vaidehi Priya Rama Charan, Hanumatsevita Rama Charan, Bharatarchita Sri Rama Charan, Ahalyoddharaka Rama Charan, Lakshmana Sevita Rama Charan, Prasanthi Niketana Rama Charan” (Always worship the Lotus Feet of Rama, son of Kausalya, which are dear to Sita, worshipped by Bharata, and in the abode of Prasanthi, served by Lakshmana and Hanuman and that redeemed Ahalya) (loud applause).
Lakshmana was overjoyed on hearing the kind words of Rama. Rama had great love for Lakshmana, more than anybody else. Similarly, Lakshmana loved Rama most dearly. He never disobeyed the command of Rama. In fact, all the brothers — Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna — had great love for each other. They ruled over Ayodhya with great unity. It was not Rama alone who administered the entire kingdom; all his brothers helped Him in conducting the affairs of the kingdom.
The Ramayana teaches us many lessons in morality and ethics. In fact, all the characters of this great epic set great ideals for humanity to follow. Sweeter than sugar, tastier than curd, sweeter indeed than honey is the Name of Rama. Is there anything greater than Ramanama? We should understand this truth and contemplate on His name day in and day out.
Great epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata teach us many moral and ethical values. Truth is the highest among these values. Sathyannasti paro dharma (There is no dharma greater than adherence to truth). Dharma is born out of sathya, from dharma emerges peace, and from peace emerges love. Where there is love, there can be no hatred. One who has love will adhere to nonviolence.
Sathya, dharma, santhi, prema, and ahimsa are the five cardinal human values. One who practises these human values is a human being in the true sense of the term. One who lacks even one of these cannot be called a perfect human being. Therefore, we should develop all these five values.
Unfortunately, when we look at the present scenario, we do not see truth anywhere, and we don’t even hear the word ‘dharma’. Therefore, man today is beset with unrest. People want peace but what they get is pieces only! Due to the lack of peace, love has become non-existent in man.
Therefore, we should develop peace. Then only will love develop in us. When love takes root in us, we will have no enemies. Then all will become our friends. Hence, man should develop love and consider all as his brothers and sisters. This is the main essence of the Ramayana.
It is only to demonstrate this principle of love that I have done this housing project in Orissa. We should love and help each other. The calamity that has befallen them can happen to anyone. When you make them happy, you will also be happy. Therefore, we should all be united.
Let us all move together, let us all grow together,
Let us all stay united and grow in intelligence together,
Let us live together with friendship and harmony. (Telugu song)
Only when we grow in intelligence together can there be unity. We should move and work with unity. No one should hate anybody. If any thought of hatred comes to you for a moment, brush it aside and develop the feeling of unity from the very next moment. It is only love that unites all.
(Bhagavan concluded His Discourse with the Bhajan, “Prema Mudita Manase Kaho Rama Rama Ram …”)
Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam
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HAPPY DAY OF RAMA...
DEVELOP LOVE AND CONSIDER ALL AS BROTHERS AND SISTERS...
April 03, 2009
Sweeter than sugar, tastier than curd, sweeter indeed than honey is the Name of Rama. Constant repetition of this sweet name gives one the taste of divine nectar itself. Therefore, one should contemplate on the name of Rama incessantly. (Telugu poem)
Bharat is the motherland of many noble souls who earned great name and fame in all the continents of the world. This is the land of valorous people who vanquished foreign rulers and attained independence. This is the land that excelled in music, literature, and other fine arts. Having been born in this great land of Bharat, oh boys and girls, it is your sacred duty to protect its rich cultural heritage.
(Telugu poem)
The Bharatiyas (Indians) today do not know their greatness, just as the elephant does not know its own strength. It obeys the command of the mahout and sits when he asks it to sit and stands when it is asked to do so. In the same manner, the Bharatiyas are imitating the western culture under the influence of western education.
The Bharatiyas are endowed with great potentialities, and their hearts are full of devotion. There is none among them who does not chant the divine name from their very birth. They name their children after the various names of God, thereby remembering God all the time. There is no village in Bharat where there is no temple of Rama. Villagers of all small hamlets, even, set up a shrine for Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita in a little hutment or some rustic abode for regular worship.
Right from the beginning, the Bharatiyas gave more importance to spirituality than to worldly and material pursuits. The main factor that is responsible for the peace and progress of Bharat is the devotion of the Bharatiyas for God. At present, many countries of the world are in the grip of great problems and difficulties. But Bharat is by far free from such difficulties. The people of Bharat may have some financial problems, but they are happily leading their lives totally surrendering to the will of God.
The Bharatiyas place their trust in the Self as the basis of their life rather than material possessions, property, and wealth. In fact, their entire life is based on this trust, and they have achieved progress in spite of many difficulties and deprivations. Having based their life on the trust in the Self, how can the Bharatiyas give any importance to worldly and materialistic pursuits? Even in their day-to-day conversation, they refer to their Self, saying, “Only my Atmarama knows this.”
Do not limit Rama or Krishna to a particular name or form. These names were given to them after their birth. They were not born with these names. The Bharatiyas have realised the truth that God is the resident of man’s heart. That is why they are able to withstand all difficulties and sufferings and lead their lives happily. Sukhadukhe samekruthwa labhalabhau jayajayau (one should remain equal-minded in happiness and sorrow, gain and loss, victory and defeat), says the Gita. Pleasure and pain are part of human life. Whenever Bharatiyas have to encounter sorrows and difficulties, they consider them as the harbingers of happiness. They have attained exalted positions due to such noble feelings.
Their faith in God is unshakeable even in the face of mishaps such as bomb blasts, floods, and plane crashes. Those who base their life with faith in God will never encounter sorrows, suffering, and difficulties. Their difficulties will come and go like passing clouds.
One who is born in this world is sure to die one day or the other. Nothing is permanent in this world. Only one thing is permanent and that is the Atma or the Self. People aspire for liberation, heaven, and Vaikuntha, but even they are not permanent. The only thing that is permanent is the Atma, and that is the only truth. You may see so many forms in this world, but none of them is permanent except the Atma.
Let us now dwell upon the Ramayana. Dasaratha had three wives: Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. Kausalya first gave birth to a female child, who was named Santha. Dasaratha gave her to one of his friends, who adopted her as his daughter. She was married to Sage Rishyasringa, who conducted the Putrakameshti Yajna of Dasaratha. When oblations were offered in the sacrificial fire with the chanting of related mantras for the Yajna, an effulgent being came out of the fire and handed over a vessel containing payasam (sweet pudding) to Dasaratha with the instruction to distribute it equally among his queens.
Accordingly, Dasaratha distributed the payasam to Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. Kausalya and Kaikeyi took their share of the pudding to their respective puja rooms. Each of them was happy, thinking that her son would be the future king of Ayodhya.
But Sumitra had no such claims. She was a paragon of virtues. Her name, ‘Su-mitra’, itself signifies that she was a good friend to one and all. She carried her bowl of pudding to the terrace and placed it on the parapet wall while drying her hair in the sun. Suddenly, an eagle swooped down and carried away the bowl. Sumitra rushed down and informed Kausalya and Kaikeyi about what had happened. Kausalya and Kaikeyi came to her rescue and shared their pudding with her. Kausalya gave half of her share to Sumitra. Kaikeyi also did the same.
In due course, Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikeyi to Bharata, and Sumitra to Lakshmana and Satrughna. Kausalya and Kaikeyi had one son each, whereas Sumitra had two sons. The sons of Kausalya and Kaikeyi were happily playing in their cradles while Sumitra’s sons were crying all the time, and were not taking milk. Sumitra was at a loss to know the reason for their crying. Ultimately, she went to Sage Vasishtha and told him about her predicament.
Sage Vasishtha closed his eyes in meditation. His yogic vision enabled him to know the truth. He said to Sumitra, “As you partook of the sacred pudding given by Kausalya, you gave birth to Lakshmana who is an amsa (part) of Rama. Similarly, Satrughna is born out of the share of pudding given to you by Kaikeyi. So, he is a part of Bharata. Put Lakshmana by the side of Rama and Satrughna by the side of Bharata. Then they will rest peacefully.”
Sumitra did as instructed by Vasishtha. Both Lakshmana and Satrughna stopped crying and started playing blissfully in their cradles. This was the basis of the intimate relationship between Rama and Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna. Both sons of Sumitra, namely, Lakshmana and Satrughna, were always in the company of Rama and Bharata. In this manner, Dasaratha’s four sons grew up in an environment of love and happiness. Sumitra was very happy because she thought her son Lakshmana would serve Rama and Satrughna would serve Bharata when they grew up.
Where was Rama born? Many people have many doubts about the place of His birth. He was born in Ayodhya. Was the city of Ayodhya built by some ordinary mortal? No, no. It was built by Viswakarma (divine architect) himself. He built it in such a way that no enemy could enter it.
When Rama won the hand of Sita by stringing the bow of Siva in the court of Janaka, His marriage with Sita was performed in Mithila amidst great rejoicings. The people of Mithila were beside themselves with joy and sang merry songs.
Welcome to all for Rama’s wedding;
together we shall witness the joyous scene.
Many have gathered already,
decked up in all their finery.
With necklaces the ladies are adorned
of jewels pure and gleaming.
Rama shall tie the knot today
to beauteous Sita, oh what a fine match they make.
Father Dasaratha has made ready bounteous feasts.
All learned sages are assembled with Vasishtha presiding.
Oh, what a multitude has assembled
to rejoice, hearts with joy overflowing.
Wedding of the holy pair
Rama and Sita, such a sight is indeed rare.
The sight shall confer great merit.
Rama looks the cool full moon,
and Sita is a matching double.
The compassionate Rama, who loves all,
will confer his grace on us all.
Come quickly to see the holy wedding of Rama and Sita. (Telugu song)
It seemed as if the entire population of Ayodhya had come to Mithila to witness the marriage of Sita and Rama. Dasaratha, all his ministers, and all family members prominently participated in the marriage. After the marriage function, all left for Ayodhya.
On the way, they heard a deafening sound. When they looked around to find where the sound had come from, they were confronted with Parasurama, who looked very fierce. All of them were perturbed and began to think, “What is this great impediment after the glorious celebration of the marriages?” Good and bad always follow each other. After experiencing great joy in Mithila, they were confronted with a difficult situation on their way to Ayodhya. Dasaratha and others became fear-stricken.
Parasurama came forward and asked, “Who broke the Siva bow?”
“It is I who has done it,” said Rama.
“If that is so, let us see if you can bend my bow.” Saying so, Parasurama gave his bow in the hands of Rama. Rama strung and armed that bow with an arrow with His left hand. Seeing that, Parasurama offered his salutations to Rama and went his way.
Experiencing the joy of victory, all of them reached Ayodhya and participated with great joy and enthusiasm in the festivities held there. The people of Ayodhya held joyous celebrations.
Like his mother, Sumitra, Lakshmana’s wife Urmila was also a woman of great virtues. When Lakshmana went to inform her that he was accompanying Rama to the forest for fourteen years, she said, “It is your greatest good fortune. Consider Sita and Rama as your mother and father and serve them. In Ayodhya you have Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi, but in the forest you have only one mother, and that is Sita. Forget me and serve Sita and Rama with total dedication.”
Lakshmana was happy to hear these words of Urmila and said to himself, “What a virtuous wife I have!”
After the departure of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita to the forest and the death of Dasaratha, Bharata came back to Ayodhya. When he was offered the crown of Ayodhya, he refused to accept it, saying that it was the right of only the eldest son and hence he would go to the forest and pray to Rama to come back and rule Ayodhya.
When he went to the forest to appeal to Rama, Rama told him, “We have to follow the command of our father. Without that, our life itself is a zero.” Rama promised Bharata that he would surely return to Ayodhya after the period of 14 years of his exile. Bharat requested Rama to give His sandals, which he would place on the throne and worship them. On his return to Ayodhya, Bharata did not enter the palace. He lived in a small hut and led the life of a renunciant, just as Rama was living in the forest.
During the sojourn of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita at Panchavati, Ravana came in the guise of a mendicant and abducted Sita. Rama was put to great difficulties, but He faced all difficulties smilingly.
Hanuman went in search of Sita to Lanka. He could cross the ocean with the power of the divine name of Rama. In fact, any stupendous task can be achieved by contemplating on the name of Rama. It was with the power of Rama’s name that the monkeys made the bridge over the ocean so that Rama and His army could reach Lanka.
Rama had to fight with Ravana, the king of demons. In the course of battle, Lakshmana was hit by a missile and became unconscious. Rama was very much distressed, and he lamented, “I may get a wife like Sita, but I cannot get a brother like Lakshmana.” Then Hanuman brought Sushena, the medical expert of Lanka, who said, “There is a herb called Sanjivini on a mountain in the Himalayan region. If you bring that herb, Lakshmana can be revived.”
Hanuman was sent to bring the Sanjivini herb to revive Lakshmana. Hanuman did not know how to recognise that particular herb. Therefore, he lifted the whole mountain on which the herb existed and placed it before Rama. With the help of the herb, Lakshmana was revived.
Rama hugged him and said, “Lakshmana, My life is meaningless without you. You have always been with Me and protected Me in many ways. There is nothing more dear to Me than you in this world. In fact, you are verily My life.”
Rama ultimately killed Ravana and rescued Sita from his prison.
Meanwhile the period of fourteen years of exile of Rama was over. As the end of fourteen years drew near and Bharata could not see any signs of Rama’s return to Ayodhya, he got ready to give up his life by immolating himself on a pyre. As Rama had anticipated the situation, he sent Hanuman in advance to inform Bharata that He was on His way back to Ayodhya. Bharata was overjoyed on hearing this good news. All the people of Ayodhya as also Bharata and the entire family were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Rama in Ayodhya.
When Rama, Lakshmana and Sita alighted from the Pushpaka Vimana, Bharata and all the people of Ayodhya offered them a hearty welcome. Soon after the arrival of Rama in Ayodhya, arrangements for His coronation were made. The people of Ayodhya were full of enthusiasm at the prospect of Rama becoming their king.
The students just now sang this song,
“Kausalyatmaja Rama Charan, Vaidehi Priya Rama Charan, Hanumatsevita Rama Charan, Bharatarchita Sri Rama Charan, Ahalyoddharaka Rama Charan, Lakshmana Sevita Rama Charan, Prasanthi Niketana Rama Charan” (Always worship the Lotus Feet of Rama, son of Kausalya, which are dear to Sita, worshipped by Bharata, and in the abode of Prasanthi, served by Lakshmana and Hanuman and that redeemed Ahalya) (loud applause).
Lakshmana was overjoyed on hearing the kind words of Rama. Rama had great love for Lakshmana, more than anybody else. Similarly, Lakshmana loved Rama most dearly. He never disobeyed the command of Rama. In fact, all the brothers — Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna — had great love for each other. They ruled over Ayodhya with great unity. It was not Rama alone who administered the entire kingdom; all his brothers helped Him in conducting the affairs of the kingdom.
The Ramayana teaches us many lessons in morality and ethics. In fact, all the characters of this great epic set great ideals for humanity to follow. Sweeter than sugar, tastier than curd, sweeter indeed than honey is the Name of Rama. Is there anything greater than Ramanama? We should understand this truth and contemplate on His name day in and day out.
Great epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata teach us many moral and ethical values. Truth is the highest among these values. Sathyannasti paro dharma (There is no dharma greater than adherence to truth). Dharma is born out of sathya, from dharma emerges peace, and from peace emerges love. Where there is love, there can be no hatred. One who has love will adhere to nonviolence.
Sathya, dharma, santhi, prema, and ahimsa are the five cardinal human values. One who practises these human values is a human being in the true sense of the term. One who lacks even one of these cannot be called a perfect human being. Therefore, we should develop all these five values.
Unfortunately, when we look at the present scenario, we do not see truth anywhere, and we don’t even hear the word ‘dharma’. Therefore, man today is beset with unrest. People want peace but what they get is pieces only! Due to the lack of peace, love has become non-existent in man.
Therefore, we should develop peace. Then only will love develop in us. When love takes root in us, we will have no enemies. Then all will become our friends. Hence, man should develop love and consider all as his brothers and sisters. This is the main essence of the Ramayana.
It is only to demonstrate this principle of love that I have done this housing project in Orissa. We should love and help each other. The calamity that has befallen them can happen to anyone. When you make them happy, you will also be happy. Therefore, we should all be united.
Let us all move together, let us all grow together,
Let us all stay united and grow in intelligence together,
Let us live together with friendship and harmony. (Telugu song)
Only when we grow in intelligence together can there be unity. We should move and work with unity. No one should hate anybody. If any thought of hatred comes to you for a moment, brush it aside and develop the feeling of unity from the very next moment. It is only love that unites all.
(Bhagavan concluded His Discourse with the Bhajan, “Prema Mudita Manase Kaho Rama Rama Ram …”)
Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam
OUR LIFE IS HIS MESSAGE
OMSAIRAMMM
OMSAIRAMMM...
CENTRO SAI HISPANO...
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