1- holy food habit [satwik ahar]
2- timely worship [jathakale upasona]
3- celibacy [brahmacharya]
4- holy books, chanting Nam [swadhyay]
5- holy company [satsanga]
.......only by holding onto these 5 ways, even if a person is a pest of hell, he will become as pure as a Tulsi on His Lotus feet...
====================
 |
| Sitaramdas and Madhav Swamiji |
Sriman
Madhav Swamiji, a Lila-Companion of Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath, used
to say- 'Most difficult task is becoming a sevak. In the paths of Gyan,
Bhakti, Yog etc, a certain degree of vanity remains. But one can become a
sevak by destroying all dimensions of vanity of the Sthula, Sukshma and
Karan Body!' ...
'Seba bhinyo sonsarer onyo kono dhon,
Bhuliyao nahi chan bhokto okinchon.'
Means-
'Besides the service,any other worldly riches,
Swamiji's words reminds us of the couplet from Thakur’s "SUDHAR DHARA"-
'Seba bhinyo sonsarer onyo kono dhon,
Bhuliyao nahi chan bhokto okinchon.'
Means-
'Besides the service,any other worldly riches,
Isn’t aspired anyway,by a devotee pennyless.'
....................
amiji used to stress on self-surrender [SARANAGATI]. He would advice us to pray 'Give me strength' at the beginning of every work and 'take the result' at the end of that work. If we work for ourselves, vanity 'AHAM' appears. So, we should work for Lord's pleasure and surrender the consequences at HIS feet. Gurudev used to explain-
'jat kritam jat karisyami
na tat sarvam maya kritam
taya kritantu fal bhak
twameva Madhusudana~
you may not recite sanskrit, surrender to His feet with the language of your mind, become Saranagata...'
....................
amiji used to stress on self-surrender [SARANAGATI]. He would advice us to pray 'Give me strength' at the beginning of every work and 'take the result' at the end of that work. If we work for ourselves, vanity 'AHAM' appears. So, we should work for Lord's pleasure and surrender the consequences at HIS feet. Gurudev used to explain-
'jat kritam jat karisyami
na tat sarvam maya kritam
taya kritantu fal bhak
twameva Madhusudana~
you may not recite sanskrit, surrender to His feet with the language of your mind, become Saranagata...'
====================
Numerous
devotees would wrote letters to Thakur from different corners of the
country, and Thakur would reply to these letters. The entire episode of
this Leela [of 'Patra Seva'] was saturated with miracles. Few examples
are being enumerated here-
* Thakur would write the replies till late midnight, or would get them written by dependable disciples. Thakur knew the content of the letters, and [without openning envelope], He would pick the important ones which need special attention.
* If any writer forgot to mention his own address, Thakur would tell the address spontaneously.
* sometimes, letters would be sent by Thakur without any address. He would write 'Police Baba, Burdwan' or 'Professor Baba, Ranigunj' etc.. and the letters would reach the recipient miraculously.
* Often, the letters would be read out in front of Thakur... if any point was skipped, the Omniscient Thakur would mention it Himself by stating 'hasnt he written this ...'!!
* Letters were a medium of spiritual advice, familial guidance, monetary helps to poor, and sometimes the divine route of bestowing Diksha.
* Thakur would write the replies till late midnight, or would get them written by dependable disciples. Thakur knew the content of the letters, and [without openning envelope], He would pick the important ones which need special attention.
* If any writer forgot to mention his own address, Thakur would tell the address spontaneously.
* sometimes, letters would be sent by Thakur without any address. He would write 'Police Baba, Burdwan' or 'Professor Baba, Ranigunj' etc.. and the letters would reach the recipient miraculously.
* Often, the letters would be read out in front of Thakur... if any point was skipped, the Omniscient Thakur would mention it Himself by stating 'hasnt he written this ...'!!
* Letters were a medium of spiritual advice, familial guidance, monetary helps to poor, and sometimes the divine route of bestowing Diksha.
====================
There was an old lady in a village, who used to make Muri [puffed rice]. While frying the puffed rice, she used to sing Harinam.
Oneday, while humming the Holy Name, she became unmindful, and the Nam was stopped. After sometime, she had a divine Vision. Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath peeped into her kitchen through a vent and said- 'Maa, why did you stop the Naam. Keep chanting. I love to listen to your Naam..!'
Ahaaa, what a wonderful vision. What an enigmatic message to all of us... Thakur listens to the Naam chanted by Bhaktas... He is listening always, and is wanting us to chant more and more!
====================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath has preached that Hari and Hara .. Vishnu and Mahadev are ONE. The scriptures have been repeatedly quoted in His compositions, along with His analysis, to establish the Unity of all paths...
He has written in SHIV NAMAMRITA LAHARI--
‘Yat parang brahma sa eko yah eka sa rudro yo rudrah
Sa ishano ya ishanah sa bhagvan maheswara…’
-atharva shivopanishad
[He Who is Parambrahma is One, He Who is One is Rudra, He Who is Rudra is Ishan, He Who is Ishan is Maheswar]
Qs- Few Vaishnavas get irritated with Shiva’s Name, few say that Shiva is inferior to Vishnu, few don’t even offer pranam to Shiva. Is this mentioned in scriptures?
Answer- Those who behave in this way hasn’t attained Truth yet. In Bhagavat VisnuPuran etc ,Visnu has been highlighted,, but in Shivpuran Adipuran etc, Shiva has been highlighted,, in DeviBhagavat Devipuran etc, Devi has been highlighted.
Qs- what is this? VedVyas has composed these Purans, but why has he projected different Deity in different scripture?
Answer- …He who is obsessed by the preferential praise of Deities in Puran, may be a devotee of that Deity, but is not a True scholar of these scriptures. The purpose of preferential praise of one Deity is to promote Ista nistha [dedication to aspired Deity], not for insulting other Forms. One who remembers this aspect while reading Puranas, will never become sectarian…
====================
PATITA PAVAN THAKUR...
Once, a Brahmacharini had committed a grevious mistake, and Thakur had instructed her to leave the Asram. Thakur was firm in His decision, and the Brahmacharini packed up her luggage for departure.
Meanwhile, she suddenly met Thakur. Thakur was staring at her with furious eyes [Rudra rup], and she broke down in tears. She was very repentant for her deed, but Thakur shouted – ‘Get out..’
The Brahmacharini asked humbly-‘where will I go?’
Thakur then gave an endearing answer- ‘Why? –at this Sricharan!’ and showed His feet.
[This love and mercy of Thakur was blended in His rebukes, His disciplinary actions, His injunctions, His stern adherence for Sanatan ideals…]
--------------------------
When Thakur resided at Chakratirtha [Neelachal] with few selected disciples, few fishermen from Andhra Pradesh gathered near the asram. Inspite of the offensive fishy odour, Thakur remained unperturbed, and started His Nampracha leela with new vigour. He visited the colony of fishermen, distributed prasadam, and Nam continued in full swing. Thakur would reside in the Nam mandap, numerous devotees gathered to see Him... Indian and foreigners, Fishermen and sadhus, young and old-- all came rushing with a pull of inexplicable divine love. The Nam mandap would soon become dirty with sand of visitors' feet. That sand and dust had to be removed later with a sack in a container, and had to be offered into the sea [using broom was prohibitted for this purpose... such was Thakur's reverence for Bhakta's 'pada-rajah'].
--------------------------
A senior neighbour, Aditya De scolded Sevanandaji [when Sevanandaji was returning to his village after seeing Thakur], telling him not to go to saints… these sadhus are frauds… Kirtan groups are like flock of jackals, shouting behind the leader.. etc etc..
Sevanandaji was very much hurt. Later, when Sevanandaji told Thakur about this ridicule, Thakur started laughing aloud. Thakur instructed him to send ‘Abhay vani’, ‘Sudhar dhara’ and some books through parcel to the address of Aditya De.
Then started Thakur’s invisible leela… Aditya De used to remain in a pensive mood, he once ‘saw’ Thakur playing sitar,… once he dreamt that Thakur is coming in a bullock cart, and took him in the cart when he offered pranam.
Just few days after this dream, it all came true. He saw Thakur coming in a cart.. the same scene of the dream… Thakur called him and took him in the cart. Aditya De prayed for diksha, and his wish was fulfilled on that day itself~!
--------------------------
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was in Vishakhapatnam during His Dakshinatya-prachar. Oneday, He had finished His bath in the sea, when a localite lady came suddenly—she was humbly clad, and her face was radiant with bliss. She fell at Thakur’s feet, and started trembling. She stood up on getting Thakur’s indicative gesture, and continued to express her emotions in incomprehendable language and expressions. She wanted to take Thakur to her home, and started pulling His hand. It seemed with spontaneous actions that she shared a relation of several births. Thakur went along with His group, chanting Kirtan. She throned Thakur on a wooden bench, washed His feet in a vessel, and kept it carefully after showing reverence. Engrossed in Bhava, she performed ‘arati’ with camphor, and offered obeisance to Thakur’s lotus-feet.
--------------------------
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was at Baltikuri, a village in Howrah… it was a desolate place in those days. A notorious dacoit Sardar came and took shelter at Thyakur’s feet.
Thakur said- ‘how many murders have u committed?’
Dacoit – ‘few hundreds..’ ….
Thakur said- ‘you have to do Prayaschitta [act of penance] before spiritual initiation.’
Dacoit – ‘Okay, I am ready.’
Thakur- ‘for this ritual, rs 500 is necessary’
Dacoit – ‘just wait, I am bringing it...’
Thakur- ‘where are you going?’
Dacoit- ‘I will extort it from any passerby..’
Thakur- ‘no need for that… SITARAM will give the expenditure. But before that, u have to surrender all your weapons.’
The Dacoit sardar immediately brought his weapons and offered those to Thakur’s feet.
Thakur was pleased, and He said- ‘now, I will give u a weapon.’ Thakur gave a ‘kartal’ and said- ‘take this.. and always chant Nam…’
The dacoit Sardar was drenched in tears of joy. Later he took diksha, and became a new person.
--------------------------
Oneday, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was going to Bagri village with His Kirtan group. On the way, He saw a mosque. Sudenly, He stopped Kirtan and prostrated in fron of the mosque to pay homage. Two muslims came out and said- ‘bring the sword’. Thakur remained standing fearlessly. The Maulavi Saheb came out and said-‘Arrey, what has happened? He is Hindu, and has offered Pranam to mosque, what is wrong in it? Will you all be able to offer pranam in Hindu temple? He is the Unifying platform of all Dharmas. He is Hindu’s Bhagavan, Muslim’s Pir, British people’s God…’ After that, the Maulavi offered Pranam to Thakur, and Thakur embraced him…
--------------------------
Shyamal basu’s uncle used to say—‘Thakur is just a saint with a garland of shoes’ [scorning the Guru paduka on Thakur’s chest]. But oneday, Thakur embraced that Uncle, and he immediately saw Lord Narayan, and he fainted, all his queries were answered.
--------------------------
‘Who’s that ?’
The Master’s voice startled a disciple who scrambled to his feet wondering if the Master was hurt.But he found Baba lying on a rug as usual and a gentleman sitting at his feet , looking cultured , sophisticated , distinguished , as man of status but distressed and contrite .
‘Who are you ?’ The Master reiterated.
‘It’s me, Master’.
‘Who pray ?’
‘Sinner’.
‘Sinner? What sins have you commited ?’
‘There’s no sin I’ve not committed’.
‘What sins, pray ? Committed Murder ?
Murdered a Saint ? Caused abortion ? Lifted gold ?Committed adultery ? Did all these eh? What else , child ?’
An awed hush followed .
The Master continued , ‘How can you be called a sinner then ? If you don’t tell lies,steal and commit adultery , for what on earth have you been born in this Age? You might as well be born in the Golden
Age .Don’t worry . Say the name of God. Go on saying –
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare.
This Name shall blow your sins away . Just say this as you sit and stand , eat and go to bed . Say it without or , with faith . Say it with every breath.
That’ll do.’
====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH says-- "for the sake of removing 'I' [Ego], all worship prayer yoga sacrifice penances are there. Your body is His body, your soul is His part, He is performing so many pastimes with you as a medium...'
====================
THAKUR Assures--'Oh My bewildered Children! Why fear? Why are you afraid when you possess the Name of "MAA"? Chant Naam, call "MAA MAA" or "DURGA DURGA", you will attain peace, you will be liberated while you are alive. Oh Deear, you are sitting in Mother's lap, why fear?...Oh MAA, My MA MA MA'
====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH has written in ‘Matrigatha’—
“{MA DURGA is telling Her devotee-} – Oh Dear, I am the embodiment of Wisdom. Those who love Leelas, I keep them in divine pastimes. Those who have no desire, I blend them in My Self.
{Devotee asks}- Maa, what is the Sadhana of Gyana (wisdom)?
{MA DURGA replies-} Gyani practises introspection, intent listening, contemplation, assimilation, and gets stabilised in the wisdom of äham Brahmasmi”[I AM HE]... Devotees who have attained Nad [divine Sound], get liberated from the bodily ties gradually while listening to Naad, and simultaneously from within, they hear the silent voices of ékoham suddhoham santoham shivoham’ [I am One, I am pure, I am peaceful, I am Divine], and ultimately get unified in Samadhi...”
====================
On the night of Kojagori Laxmi Puja, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath came to the Puja platform with His devotees and disciples. Thakur stated—‘Offer Pranam at Mother’s feet with devotion. Don’t ask for petty wordly wealth, as Ma dispels devotee’s poverty even before asking for it.Dont want anything other than Bhakti, as Bhakti itself will fill your heart with Bliss…’
====================
-Do You love those who chant Nam? Then I wont chant.
-why are you afraid of My love?
-by seeing and hearing, I have a terror about Your love. When I hear of Your love, I remember Raja Dasrath, he died by drowning in Your love . kausalya became blind by shedding tears. By loving Your beloved Sita, You have set an ideal of love—don’t You remember? O kind and cruel! O soft and stern! Don’t utter the topic LOVE! VASUDEV & Debaki’s insult in Kamsa’s prison is the monument of Your love, the tears of Nanda & Yasoda hoist the flag of Your love, the lamentation of gopis bear the majestic umbrella of Your love. What more to say? Hearing of Your love reminds the misfortune of Pandavas , Prahlad’s torture, Bali’s bondage, all these. If You tell me to chant Your holy name, I will. Don’t raise the topic of LOVE!
……………
-See, to relieve the eternal sorrow of My devotees, and to clear their bondage to worldly joys , I set ablaze the fire of sorrow outside, and take them in My lap. People see that they are suffering, but the heat of sorrow cannot touch the devotee, he sleeps fearlessly in My lap…
[[extract from MAAHRASAYAN, somposed by SRI SRI THAKUR]]
=====================
===================
Sri Taritbhusan De had narrated-
I had gone to East Pakistan [Banglades] for business purpose, and was sleeping. I suddenly heard a call,and when I opened my eyes, I saw Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath. I was amazed, and I thought- ‘Baba is in India now, how’s this possible?’ I noticed carefully, and saw that the continula smile on Thakur’s face was missing. Thakur seemed to be very anxious and serious. On seeing this, I felt afraid. Then, I saw that Thakur is raising His hand to render fearlessness, and then He disappeared... Suddenly, I got an information that some evil persons have informed the police that I am India’s spy, and the ruthless ‘Ansari Bahini’ was after me. My relatives started crying, and I started running, with an inner voice guiding me towards the steamer Ghat. When I reached the Ghat, a steamer had already departed, but it came back and I boarded, and the steamer left again.
Soon after, I saw about 30 men screaming from the land- ‘stop the steamer, an Indian spy is there!’ But, miraculously, no one could hear what the men were saying, and thought that those screamers were ordinary passengers! I was safely sailed back to India, and Thakur’s grace saved me..!’
=============
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH had written-
‘guru montro iste kono nahiko probhed,
Tinti ekti iha bolechen Ved...’
Guru, Mantra and Ista have no difference, the Three are ONE ... this is the message of Vedas.
Oneday, Madhav Swamiji was asked—“Why did Thakur say-- Guru, Mantra and Ista are ONE..? The three are separate, isn’t it?” Swamiji smiled and said—“From GURU, the MANTRA appears, and from MANTRA, the ISTA [aspired Deity] appears... the Three are ONE and identical... They are different manifestations of the same Power...”
===============
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATHDEV's spiritiual literature is not just vast and exhaustive, every message is his realized truth. His compositions encompass all shastras and form the eternal nectar gifted to human race for generations to come...
Thakur's compositions came as an 'avataran' or spontaneous revelation of Divine wisdom. Often, He kept writing for hours, and a Sevak had to put the punctuation marks later on.
Sriman Madhav Swamiji had analysed-- 'those who have fortunately explored THAKUR's books will realize— He is Shakta for wirshippers of Shakti, Saura for worshippers of Surya, Ganapatya for Ganesha devotees, Shaiva for Shiva worshippers, real Shankar Vedanti for Brahmavadi Formless seekers. Yet, being everyone’s very own, He is a devout Vaishnava. He is the Guide for all paths, He is the dearest Companion for each traveller.'
==================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH says-
'Teach yourself and teach the world. Wisdom is not there in books, it is the fruit of spiritual practice, the soul of penances. By dry recital of scriptures like birds and animals, you wont attain Wisdom even in 100 births. By worshipping Him, Wisdom will be unveiled-- by religious pursuits, the Power of Creator will embrace you..'
===========
When you lose yourself while thinking,
Mind and spirit melts in Eternal feeling.
He dwells in melted mind, Great men say it,
Let all melt- vanity, mind and spirit.
Tears in eyes for offering prayer,
Nothing else does my Lord aspire.
Pour, pour your tears at His feet,
All worries disappear, you’ll be relieved.
Whoever fortunate worships with tears,
Before him soon Lord Himself appears.
================
'Those who come as sons and daughters, Should be nurtured as dear guests.
They should be trained with tender love, But aspiration should be avoided.
There is no guarantee of life’s tenure,
And attachment must be safely curtailed. We all are dwelling at an Inn,
And we all have to depart oneday.
The world is full of alluring mockery-this should be contemplated in the mind..'
===========
If you want peace, О Mind!
Contemplate Guru’s holy feet.
You need not go to desolate places,
You need not renounce your relatives.
I you call intently, the Shiva comes,
To dispel evils, and You attain Bliss. The Light of His feet removes darkness, And goal of Human birth is fulfilled. GURU GURU GURU SRI GURU SRI GURU JAI GURU GURU chant it always.
To relieve pains and to offer solace,
To enlighten you, HE WILL COME
===============
Shri Puranjan Roy Bandopadhyay has written- ‘... I was waiting for Gurudev [THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH] to come and give the BeejMantra.
Suddenly, an unexpected un5thinkable unworldly incident occurred! I felt some Touch in the base of my spine, and a electrical power instantly ascended to my head and a turmoil followed! I was uprooted from my being and thrown into a whirling Light of Ethereal space! The seven worlds seemed to vanish, and I was swinging in the lap of Light...!...’ Shri Bandopadhyay has clarified- ‘I have heard that Anubhutis are lost if revealed. I have already lost it, and 1 have no repentance as well. I want to tell the world the power of Gurushakti which I felt.... I know- You can ignite Fire in mud, but it is neither Fire’s nor mud’s credit., it is only YOUR glory...’
================
A dedicated disciple of Thakar Sitaramdas Omkamath [Sri Shankarnath ChattopadhyayJ had narrated this incident in his memoirs-
Chaturmasya was going on... Thakur would go for few days to Ramananda Math for Jagadhhatri paja, and He instrtucted Shankarnath to look after the Chaturmasya. After Thakur departed with His disciples, Shankarnath went to the store room, and to his utter surprise, he saw that the was no food item in the store. He was perplexed, and he called Sebanandaji tooffer a solution. Sebanandaji was also very helpless, as there were no money with them, and many devotees would be coming at noon for Chaturmasya Prasadam. Shankarnath felt very annoyed on Thakur’s ruthless tests, and he decided- I will offer Prasad with whatever I have. If people are dissatisfied with the Prasad I prepare, I will tell them to go to Ramananda Math.’ In a whim, Shankarnath lit the oven and placed a pot full of Gangajal [boiled Ganga water was all which was awailable for BhogNibedanj.
After some hours, a cart came., it was full of food items, adequate for 4-5 days. The cart attendant said that all these have been sent by a zamindar for Omkamathdev’s asram. Shankarnath was so overwhelmed with the sudden arrival that he forgot to ask the zamindar's name. All the food items were unloaded, and everyone got prasadam in abundance. Shankarnath told Sebanandaji- The hot Gangajal has frightened Him so much, that He has sent all these in time! When Thakur came back after 5 days, He enquired mysteriously whether everything was fine. When this miracle was narrated, Thakur smiled and avoided the discussion!
===SShri Puranjan Roy Bandopadhyay has written- ‘... I was waiting for Gurudev [THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH] to come and give the BeejMantra.Suddenly, an unexpected un5thinkable unworldly incident occurred! I felt some Touch in the base of my spine, and a electrical power instantly ascended to my head and a turmoil followed! I was uprooted from my being and thrown into a whirling Light of Ethereal space! The seven worlds seemed to vanish, and I was swinging in the lap of Light...!...’ Shri Bandopadhyay has clarified- ‘I have heard that Anubhutis are lost if revealed. I have already lost it, and 1 have no repentance as well. I want to tell the world the power of Gurushakti which I felt.... I know- You can ignite Fire in mud, but it is neither Fire’s nor mud’s credit., it is only YOUR glory...’ri Taritbhusan De had narrated-4 had gone to East Pakistan [Banglades] for business purpose, and was sleeping. I suddenly heard a call,and when I opened my eyes, I saw Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath. I was amazed, and I thought- ‘Baba is in India now, how’s this possible?’ I noticed carefully, and saw that the continula smile on Thakur’s face was missing. Thakur seemed to be very anxious and serious. On seeing this, I felt afraid. Then, I saw that Thakur is raising His hand to render fearlessness, and then He disappeared... Suddenly, I got an information that some evil persons have informed the police that I am India’s spy, and the ruthless ‘Ansari Bahini’ was after me. My relatives started crying, and I started running, with an inner voice guiding me towards the steamer Ghat. When I reached the Ghat, a steamer had already departed, but it came back and I boarded, and the steamer left again.Soon after, I saw about 30 men screaming from the land- ‘stop the steamer, an Indian spy is there!’ But, miraculously, no one could hear what the men were saying, and thought that those screamers were ordinary passengers! I was safely sailed back to India, and Thakur’s grace saved me..!’
There was an old lady in a village, who used to make Muri [puffed rice]. While frying the puffed rice, she used to sing Harinam.
Oneday, while humming the Holy Name, she became unmindful, and the Nam was stopped. After sometime, she had a divine Vision. Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath peeped into her kitchen through a vent and said- 'Maa, why did you stop the Naam. Keep chanting. I love to listen to your Naam..!'
Ahaaa, what a wonderful vision. What an enigmatic message to all of us... Thakur listens to the Naam chanted by Bhaktas... He is listening always, and is wanting us to chant more and more!
====================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath has preached that Hari and Hara .. Vishnu and Mahadev are ONE. The scriptures have been repeatedly quoted in His compositions, along with His analysis, to establish the Unity of all paths...
He has written in SHIV NAMAMRITA LAHARI--
‘Yat parang brahma sa eko yah eka sa rudro yo rudrah
Sa ishano ya ishanah sa bhagvan maheswara…’
-atharva shivopanishad
[He Who is Parambrahma is One, He Who is One is Rudra, He Who is Rudra is Ishan, He Who is Ishan is Maheswar]
Qs- Few Vaishnavas get irritated with Shiva’s Name, few say that Shiva is inferior to Vishnu, few don’t even offer pranam to Shiva. Is this mentioned in scriptures?
Answer- Those who behave in this way hasn’t attained Truth yet. In Bhagavat VisnuPuran etc ,Visnu has been highlighted,, but in Shivpuran Adipuran etc, Shiva has been highlighted,, in DeviBhagavat Devipuran etc, Devi has been highlighted.
Qs- what is this? VedVyas has composed these Purans, but why has he projected different Deity in different scripture?
Answer- …He who is obsessed by the preferential praise of Deities in Puran, may be a devotee of that Deity, but is not a True scholar of these scriptures. The purpose of preferential praise of one Deity is to promote Ista nistha [dedication to aspired Deity], not for insulting other Forms. One who remembers this aspect while reading Puranas, will never become sectarian…
====================
PATITA PAVAN THAKUR...
Once, a Brahmacharini had committed a grevious mistake, and Thakur had instructed her to leave the Asram. Thakur was firm in His decision, and the Brahmacharini packed up her luggage for departure.
Meanwhile, she suddenly met Thakur. Thakur was staring at her with furious eyes [Rudra rup], and she broke down in tears. She was very repentant for her deed, but Thakur shouted – ‘Get out..’
The Brahmacharini asked humbly-‘where will I go?’
Thakur then gave an endearing answer- ‘Why? –at this Sricharan!’ and showed His feet.
[This love and mercy of Thakur was blended in His rebukes, His disciplinary actions, His injunctions, His stern adherence for Sanatan ideals…]
--------------------------
When Thakur resided at Chakratirtha [Neelachal] with few selected disciples, few fishermen from Andhra Pradesh gathered near the asram. Inspite of the offensive fishy odour, Thakur remained unperturbed, and started His Nampracha leela with new vigour. He visited the colony of fishermen, distributed prasadam, and Nam continued in full swing. Thakur would reside in the Nam mandap, numerous devotees gathered to see Him... Indian and foreigners, Fishermen and sadhus, young and old-- all came rushing with a pull of inexplicable divine love. The Nam mandap would soon become dirty with sand of visitors' feet. That sand and dust had to be removed later with a sack in a container, and had to be offered into the sea [using broom was prohibitted for this purpose... such was Thakur's reverence for Bhakta's 'pada-rajah'].
--------------------------
A senior neighbour, Aditya De scolded Sevanandaji [when Sevanandaji was returning to his village after seeing Thakur], telling him not to go to saints… these sadhus are frauds… Kirtan groups are like flock of jackals, shouting behind the leader.. etc etc..
Sevanandaji was very much hurt. Later, when Sevanandaji told Thakur about this ridicule, Thakur started laughing aloud. Thakur instructed him to send ‘Abhay vani’, ‘Sudhar dhara’ and some books through parcel to the address of Aditya De.
Then started Thakur’s invisible leela… Aditya De used to remain in a pensive mood, he once ‘saw’ Thakur playing sitar,… once he dreamt that Thakur is coming in a bullock cart, and took him in the cart when he offered pranam.
Just few days after this dream, it all came true. He saw Thakur coming in a cart.. the same scene of the dream… Thakur called him and took him in the cart. Aditya De prayed for diksha, and his wish was fulfilled on that day itself~!
--------------------------
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was in Vishakhapatnam during His Dakshinatya-prachar. Oneday, He had finished His bath in the sea, when a localite lady came suddenly—she was humbly clad, and her face was radiant with bliss. She fell at Thakur’s feet, and started trembling. She stood up on getting Thakur’s indicative gesture, and continued to express her emotions in incomprehendable language and expressions. She wanted to take Thakur to her home, and started pulling His hand. It seemed with spontaneous actions that she shared a relation of several births. Thakur went along with His group, chanting Kirtan. She throned Thakur on a wooden bench, washed His feet in a vessel, and kept it carefully after showing reverence. Engrossed in Bhava, she performed ‘arati’ with camphor, and offered obeisance to Thakur’s lotus-feet.
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Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was at Baltikuri, a village in Howrah… it was a desolate place in those days. A notorious dacoit Sardar came and took shelter at Thyakur’s feet.
Thakur said- ‘how many murders have u committed?’
Dacoit – ‘few hundreds..’ ….
Thakur said- ‘you have to do Prayaschitta [act of penance] before spiritual initiation.’
Dacoit – ‘Okay, I am ready.’
Thakur- ‘for this ritual, rs 500 is necessary’
Dacoit – ‘just wait, I am bringing it...’
Thakur- ‘where are you going?’
Dacoit- ‘I will extort it from any passerby..’
Thakur- ‘no need for that… SITARAM will give the expenditure. But before that, u have to surrender all your weapons.’
The Dacoit sardar immediately brought his weapons and offered those to Thakur’s feet.
Thakur was pleased, and He said- ‘now, I will give u a weapon.’ Thakur gave a ‘kartal’ and said- ‘take this.. and always chant Nam…’
The dacoit Sardar was drenched in tears of joy. Later he took diksha, and became a new person.
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Oneday, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was going to Bagri village with His Kirtan group. On the way, He saw a mosque. Sudenly, He stopped Kirtan and prostrated in fron of the mosque to pay homage. Two muslims came out and said- ‘bring the sword’. Thakur remained standing fearlessly. The Maulavi Saheb came out and said-‘Arrey, what has happened? He is Hindu, and has offered Pranam to mosque, what is wrong in it? Will you all be able to offer pranam in Hindu temple? He is the Unifying platform of all Dharmas. He is Hindu’s Bhagavan, Muslim’s Pir, British people’s God…’ After that, the Maulavi offered Pranam to Thakur, and Thakur embraced him…
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Shyamal basu’s uncle used to say—‘Thakur is just a saint with a garland of shoes’ [scorning the Guru paduka on Thakur’s chest]. But oneday, Thakur embraced that Uncle, and he immediately saw Lord Narayan, and he fainted, all his queries were answered.
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‘Who’s that ?’
The Master’s voice startled a disciple who scrambled to his feet wondering if the Master was hurt.But he found Baba lying on a rug as usual and a gentleman sitting at his feet , looking cultured , sophisticated , distinguished , as man of status but distressed and contrite .
‘Who are you ?’ The Master reiterated.
‘It’s me, Master’.
‘Who pray ?’
‘Sinner’.
‘Sinner? What sins have you commited ?’
‘There’s no sin I’ve not committed’.
‘What sins, pray ? Committed Murder ?
Murdered a Saint ? Caused abortion ? Lifted gold ?Committed adultery ? Did all these eh? What else , child ?’
An awed hush followed .
The Master continued , ‘How can you be called a sinner then ? If you don’t tell lies,steal and commit adultery , for what on earth have you been born in this Age? You might as well be born in the Golden
Age .Don’t worry . Say the name of God. Go on saying –
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare.
This Name shall blow your sins away . Just say this as you sit and stand , eat and go to bed . Say it without or , with faith . Say it with every breath.
That’ll do.’
====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH says-- "for the sake of removing 'I' [Ego], all worship prayer yoga sacrifice penances are there. Your body is His body, your soul is His part, He is performing so many pastimes with you as a medium...'
====================
THAKUR Assures--'Oh My bewildered Children! Why fear? Why are you afraid when you possess the Name of "MAA"? Chant Naam, call "MAA MAA" or "DURGA DURGA", you will attain peace, you will be liberated while you are alive. Oh Deear, you are sitting in Mother's lap, why fear?...Oh MAA, My MA MA MA'
====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH has written in ‘Matrigatha’—
“{MA DURGA is telling Her devotee-} – Oh Dear, I am the embodiment of Wisdom. Those who love Leelas, I keep them in divine pastimes. Those who have no desire, I blend them in My Self.
{Devotee asks}- Maa, what is the Sadhana of Gyana (wisdom)?
{MA DURGA replies-} Gyani practises introspection, intent listening, contemplation, assimilation, and gets stabilised in the wisdom of äham Brahmasmi”[I AM HE]... Devotees who have attained Nad [divine Sound], get liberated from the bodily ties gradually while listening to Naad, and simultaneously from within, they hear the silent voices of ékoham suddhoham santoham shivoham’ [I am One, I am pure, I am peaceful, I am Divine], and ultimately get unified in Samadhi...”
====================
On the night of Kojagori Laxmi Puja, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath came to the Puja platform with His devotees and disciples. Thakur stated—‘Offer Pranam at Mother’s feet with devotion. Don’t ask for petty wordly wealth, as Ma dispels devotee’s poverty even before asking for it.Dont want anything other than Bhakti, as Bhakti itself will fill your heart with Bliss…’
====================
-Do You love those who chant Nam? Then I wont chant.
-why are you afraid of My love?
-by seeing and hearing, I have a terror about Your love. When I hear of Your love, I remember Raja Dasrath, he died by drowning in Your love . kausalya became blind by shedding tears. By loving Your beloved Sita, You have set an ideal of love—don’t You remember? O kind and cruel! O soft and stern! Don’t utter the topic LOVE! VASUDEV & Debaki’s insult in Kamsa’s prison is the monument of Your love, the tears of Nanda & Yasoda hoist the flag of Your love, the lamentation of gopis bear the majestic umbrella of Your love. What more to say? Hearing of Your love reminds the misfortune of Pandavas , Prahlad’s torture, Bali’s bondage, all these. If You tell me to chant Your holy name, I will. Don’t raise the topic of LOVE!
……………
-See, to relieve the eternal sorrow of My devotees, and to clear their bondage to worldly joys , I set ablaze the fire of sorrow outside, and take them in My lap. People see that they are suffering, but the heat of sorrow cannot touch the devotee, he sleeps fearlessly in My lap…
[[extract from MAAHRASAYAN, somposed by SRI SRI THAKUR]]
=====================
Once,
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath went to Lavkush Asram, Bithur. A group of
dogs came and surrounded Him lovingly, and was sniffing and squeaking
with endearing submissive attitude. Thakur stared at them and said-
‘What will I do? You all have acquired the body of dogs [Kukur yoni]
because of your previous life’s misdeeds. I can only give you Prasadam…’
Thakur took a piece of paper, and wrote- ‘Oh My Kukur Babas, you and your associates are all being invited to my Ashram tomorrow for Prasadam at noon time.’ Thakur tied a string to the paper and garlanded it on the neck of a dog.
A strange incident occurred next day. Many dogs came to the Lavkush asram at noon time. As per Thakur’s instruction, enormous quantity of Khichri prasadam had been cooked. Thakur said- ‘the Khichri should be fanned and cooled before serving, as hot food may hurt the tender tongue of dogs.’
Thakur told the stray dogs to take their seats, and the dogs took their positions in lines… Prasadam was served in small clay containers, and the dogs relished the feast. Thakur said- ‘those who want to eat more will remain in their seats, others may move aside’, and astonishingly, many dogs took a ‘repeat serving’ of the Prasadm…
This incident happened like a miracle in front of numerous devotees, and the startling decorum and obedience of the dogs was nothing but a unique expression of His omnipresent charm. Thakur, in general, discouraged the practice of keeping pet dogs within the house, because Vedas have described dogs to be Tamasik creatures. But adherence to scriptures didn’t prevent Him from showering His love on every creature, even the neglected stray dogs. His grace was a source of liberation from Prarabdhas and sufferings, and that overwhelming power even nourished the nonhuman beings…
His mission of ‘keho na rohibe khunno’ [no one will be deprived], is explicit in this Leela amidst stray dogs…
Thakur took a piece of paper, and wrote- ‘Oh My Kukur Babas, you and your associates are all being invited to my Ashram tomorrow for Prasadam at noon time.’ Thakur tied a string to the paper and garlanded it on the neck of a dog.
A strange incident occurred next day. Many dogs came to the Lavkush asram at noon time. As per Thakur’s instruction, enormous quantity of Khichri prasadam had been cooked. Thakur said- ‘the Khichri should be fanned and cooled before serving, as hot food may hurt the tender tongue of dogs.’
Thakur told the stray dogs to take their seats, and the dogs took their positions in lines… Prasadam was served in small clay containers, and the dogs relished the feast. Thakur said- ‘those who want to eat more will remain in their seats, others may move aside’, and astonishingly, many dogs took a ‘repeat serving’ of the Prasadm…
This incident happened like a miracle in front of numerous devotees, and the startling decorum and obedience of the dogs was nothing but a unique expression of His omnipresent charm. Thakur, in general, discouraged the practice of keeping pet dogs within the house, because Vedas have described dogs to be Tamasik creatures. But adherence to scriptures didn’t prevent Him from showering His love on every creature, even the neglected stray dogs. His grace was a source of liberation from Prarabdhas and sufferings, and that overwhelming power even nourished the nonhuman beings…
His mission of ‘keho na rohibe khunno’ [no one will be deprived], is explicit in this Leela amidst stray dogs…
=====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH's love for GoMata is a part of His existence. It has been narrated in ‘Sri Sri Lila chinta’—
‘Surobhi namete gabhi asromete acche,
Go gras prodan lagi jan tar kache.
Sorbange buliye den srihosto jotone,
Songira pronome tar charity chorine.’
[Thakur came to a cow in the asram, named Suravi.
He offer the Go Graas[ food] to her.
He caressed her gently with His palms,
And His devotees offered pranam by touching her 4 legs]
…The Go Raksha andolan was going on in full swing in 1966… The Shankaracharya of Puri, Rev Prabhu Datta Brahmachari, and many other saints were on hunger strike. Many representatives were coming to Thakur for discussing the Issues of stopping GO Hatya. Thakur also sent representatives to Shankaracharya and other saints requesting them to heed to their health conditions. Thakur started His Prarthana-
‘Tomar Go Rokkha tore dirgho onosone,
So songi tader pran rohibey kemone.
Sri Shankaracharya ar Prabhudatta pran,
Kripa kori koro rokkha Sorboshoktiman.’
[For the sake of saving Your Mother cows,
How can the lives survive such prlonged fasting!
The lives of Sri Shankaracharya and Prabhudatta ji,
Protect them, o Lord Omnipotent, with Your grace.]
Thousands of devotees of Thakur started this Prarthana all across the country. On the 2nd of Poush, Thakur called a large meeting at Mahamilan Math on the issue of Go Raksha. Thousands of men and women came, along with dignitaries. Thakur said—‘Stopping the cow slaughter is urgent, and this is the prayer of numerous souls. There is no bias or religious hatred in this agenda. A cause which is supported by numerous people must be implemented in a democracy.’ Prafulla Sen, the CM of Bengal, assured Thakur , that he will support the cause on his behalf…
‘Surobhi namete gabhi asromete acche,
Go gras prodan lagi jan tar kache.
Sorbange buliye den srihosto jotone,
Songira pronome tar charity chorine.’
[Thakur came to a cow in the asram, named Suravi.
He offer the Go Graas[ food] to her.
He caressed her gently with His palms,
And His devotees offered pranam by touching her 4 legs]
…The Go Raksha andolan was going on in full swing in 1966… The Shankaracharya of Puri, Rev Prabhu Datta Brahmachari, and many other saints were on hunger strike. Many representatives were coming to Thakur for discussing the Issues of stopping GO Hatya. Thakur also sent representatives to Shankaracharya and other saints requesting them to heed to their health conditions. Thakur started His Prarthana-
‘Tomar Go Rokkha tore dirgho onosone,
So songi tader pran rohibey kemone.
Sri Shankaracharya ar Prabhudatta pran,
Kripa kori koro rokkha Sorboshoktiman.’
[For the sake of saving Your Mother cows,
How can the lives survive such prlonged fasting!
The lives of Sri Shankaracharya and Prabhudatta ji,
Protect them, o Lord Omnipotent, with Your grace.]
Thousands of devotees of Thakur started this Prarthana all across the country. On the 2nd of Poush, Thakur called a large meeting at Mahamilan Math on the issue of Go Raksha. Thousands of men and women came, along with dignitaries. Thakur said—‘Stopping the cow slaughter is urgent, and this is the prayer of numerous souls. There is no bias or religious hatred in this agenda. A cause which is supported by numerous people must be implemented in a democracy.’ Prafulla Sen, the CM of Bengal, assured Thakur , that he will support the cause on his behalf…
=====================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath says--
“Be it true or imaginary, one shouldn't criticize or malign others. Those who keep on maligning others, are destined to go to hell.”
Thakur has put His command in rhyming lines-
“oporer Ninda kore jei obhajon,
bisom jwalay jwole sei onukkhon.
Ninditer pap bhare hoiya pirito,
ninduk noroke dube iha sunischito”
[a fool who maligns others,
suffers in agony always.
taking away sins from the criticised,
the critic gets dumped in Hell]
Thus, the devotees of Thakur should always refrain from back-biting, maligning, spreading disrepute. If we find any flaw in any situation, we should try to rectify it with direct constructive interaction, or else we should avoid that situation. But in any case, loose criticism should be avoided, as it is a Gateway to Hell, as opined by SRI SRI THAKUR.
=====================
======================
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This is a very unique incident, where a devotee vowed to give riches as much as Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath's weight. Thakur sat on one side of the weighing scale, and items were piled up on the other side. Items were heaped up, but still Thakur's side remained heavier. Then, a tulsi leaf was placed, and then Thakur became lighter...
two messages from this leela-
1-Tulsi is God's favourite, and must be given in each offering.
2-there should be no vanity or 'aham' in any offering to Thakur!
=====================
Once, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was invited to the asram of Ma Anandamoyee. After a blissful meeting, Thakur was going back at noon. Maa told the devotees to hold umbrella to protect Thakur from the harsh sunlight. Thakur’s companions said that Thakur doesn’t use umbrella. Maa then took the towel from Her head and wrapped it on Thakur’s hairlocks. She said- ‘Your and My heads are not different. You are the Father, and I am Your Daughter…’
======================
When Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath used to read scriptures, often the recital would remain incomplete, as He used to get submerged in spiritual trance. Here is a narration of reading Gita-
Thakur said-
''Sri Gita is indeed the heart of Sri Bhagawan. How much can we understand it?
-Only by surrendering to Him, He kindly explains it to us; our duty consists in exclusively surrendering to Him.
Just as after tasting delicious Amrita [Nectar of immortality], there is no desire to taste anything else, after learning the philosophy of Gita, the seeker after knowledge aspires to know nothing else.''
=======================
Ms Navaneeta Devsen, well-known writer, has given a thrilling account of how Sitaram brought her father, the renowned poet Naren Dev, from the jaws of death in the article ‘Karuna tomar kon path diye’ (To how many paths does your compassion extend!) in magazines and books.This incident had been aptly Chronicled by Rev Kinkar Vitthal Ramanuja in his masterpiece 'Nabo Nabo Rupe eso' [The Eternal Festival], and thereafter translated into English by Raj Supe(Kinkar Vishwashreyananda)
“At that time my father was eighty-one years of age. Suddenly he got a stroke of coronary plus cerebral thrombosis. My father’s blood sugar was also quite high; he was lying inert in coma for twelve full days. The left side of the body had been paralyzed; the left hand had been numbed. There was no possibility of survival. There was an oxygen tube in the nose, glucose was being
pumped up through the hand and there was one more needle for some other medicine. The Fowler’s bed made of iron had been ordered. Two senior nurses had been posted on duty for day and night. I flew from Delhi and reached. Everybody was quite sad at heart.
Just then Sitaramdas Omkarnath, who was like a sannyasi- friend of my father, came to know that my father was on deathbed. The author of ‘Nirakshar’ and a childhood friend of my father Charandas Ghosh was a classmate of Sitaram – it was through him that he knew my father. Hearing of my father’s illness, one day Sitaram came to see him. Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was always surrounded by Ram Naam. So when he came to the hospital, a group of disciples who sang Naam Samkirtan followed him. I, who am a great sinner, heard the Samkirtan and ran; I entreated: “Thakur! Though my father is unconscious, he must be conscious somewhere deep down, but if he hears Hari Naam there is a possibility he might die from fear. One hears; in order to recover from disease it is extremely necessary to have the self-confidence to fight the disease and live. If my father hears Hari Naam he will think his time is up. Therefore please don’t
stop the struggle that is in him. Stop Naam Kirtan!”
Omkarnath Thakur smiled and said, “Let the singing of Naam go on down there. Come, I shall come up alone.”
My father’s eyes were closed. The doors and windows were closed! It was summer. Eleven in the morning! One electric bulb was on. The quarrelsome nurse wasn’t allowing anyone in: ‘Visitors not allowed.’ We requested the nurse to go out – she refused! She had already warned, “Until the doctor comes you cannot feed the patient any prasad etc.” She was scared seeing the sadhu baba. She probably thought; ‘Now he will perform some mantra tantra and get the patient to drink the washing off his feet and do such other (ridiculous) things.’
Sitaram went to my father and bent down. He fondly caressed his forehead and called out, “Naren! Naren! Naren! What’s the matter, brother?” The eyes that had been closed for twelve long days suddenly showed signs of animation –the eyelids trembled. My mother, my aunt, the nurse and I looked on nonplussed –my father had opened his eyes and he was looking at us. Red, blazing eyes –red as blood! As such there was no focus in the direction of his sight; even then he looked at Omkarnath who stood on the side.
“How are you brother?” asked Omkarnath, laughing and in tones of notorious mongering.
What a surprise! My father’s lips moved. He said casually but in indistinct tones, “I am exactly the way you have kept me. How else, I say?” Omkarnath broke into laughter, “Ah! Back to your pranks? Not now! When you get well and stand up I will check you out!” My father became quiet.
Sitaram consoled me: “Don’t worry! Your father will get up after three or four days.” Then, offering a namaskara, he went away. Hari Naam Samkirtan assumed a greater momentum.
My father was not an initiate; he wasn’t even a devotee in that sense of the word. His human relationships were extremely heartfelt, very fond and affable! Omkarnath Thakur indeed went away but the nurse was perturbed. She had never seen anyone effortlessly call back a patient from twelve days of coma. I don’t know how Sitaram Thakur divined it, but my father became fully conscious within four days. What’s more, there was movement in the left hand and foot that had been crippled for fifteen days. My father started going to the bathroom unassisted. Dr. Shailen Sen said: “This is a medical miracle! With pure will power he has made the impossible possible.” That Indian nurse was however completely overwhelmed. If she had not been in the room at that time God knows if the doctor had believed us. One never heard of Sitaram working out any charms or magical spells. Besides, whatever had happened was not a medical miracle. I think Thakur had spoken in the most ordinary way to my father. He had merely awakened the latent consciousness that lay deep down even in the state of coma. This is not too difficult a job for the yogis and sannyasis. My father lived for two years after this; he walked about in perfect health, climbed up and down the four floors of the house – everything was normal. When we told him about this incidence after he returned to consciousness, he said, “Yes, I remember, Sitaram had come!” ...."
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Once, Prof Tarasankar Bhattacharya and Kinkar Bhumanandadev was present at Jagadhhatri puja at Ramananda Math. When Thakur offered flowers to the Deity of Ma Jagadhatri, they saw that Maa’s face was radiant with joy. .. and suddenly, in front of them, drops of tears rolled down the cheeks of MAA. They exclaimed in awe- ‘Babaa… there are tears in Maa’s eyes’ .. Thakur became still in Samadhi…
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A sweet conversation of Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath, and Sriman Madhav Swamiji [who was a Sakha of Vrajadham in Krishna Lila, as stated by Thakur]...
Oneday, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was seeing a picture of Gopal. The Gopal was chubby and sweet, and Thakur saw it with love and interest. Thakur commented- ‘This is the fruit of Madhav’s work, Madhav has fed Him so much of Chhana [curdled/ possetted milk]…’
(Madhav Swamiji used to feed Thakur lovingly, and often tried to offer nutritious foods like ‘chhana’ for Thakur’s health. Thus, Thakur made this sweet comment).
Thakur called Swamiji and asked him –‘have you seen this picture. Do you have any relation with Him [Gopal]?’
Madhav Swamiji said- ‘yes’. Then he wanted to take the picture, but Thakur showed childish possessiveness and said- ‘I will not give this. When u want to see Him, you may come to me for seeing this picture.’
Such was the beauty of Thakur’s Leela with His dear disciples…
Sweet and enjoyable… yet so much to contemplate and analyse….
[Source- a narration by Kinkar Sharanandaji]
=====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH said- ' how can anyone remain with so much of bliss alone?'
He is a personification of bliss... the 'ananda' or bliss that He is willing to share is His innate nature... and the dispersal of Ananda among sinful, petty, downtrodden, selfish, worldly commoners is the purpose of His leela.
=====================
'For saving the Mankind , You have come,
So why do You pretend like this, o Narayan?
In the worldly ties, bound by my deeds,
When I was about to be drowned helplessly-
Then You came with the knife of Naam,
And cut apart all my bondages.
I never called You for liberation,
O Patitpavan, You came on Your own.
This poet has nothing in this world,
This self can only offer countless pranams at Thy feet.'
[a stanza from a Poem by Kinkar Ashimananda—
Sushil Kr Bandopadhay, a Brave desperate disciple of Omkarnathdev]
======================
Sri Aditya Kr De Chowdhury had recollected in his book ‘Srichoroner Chhayay Chhayay’-
Year 1944… a stranger group of Kirtan had come to our village… I thought- ‘it must be a group collecting money for some flood relief etc..’ … I thought of avoiding them with all my effort. But I heard that they aren’t asking for money, and are politely rejecting any monetary aids which are being voluntarily offered… What they sing is not exactly a song.. they are repeating these 2 lines in different tunes and rythms-
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare;
Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare…….
….. Oneday, feeling a strong attraction, I went to meet the Sadhu who headed the Kirtan group… The Sadhu asked me- ‘Baba, where do you stay?’ I replied- ‘I live in this village’…
Guruprasanga was going on.. suddenly I saw—the Sadhu became silent, His neck flexed twice, and His lips [within the beard] shivered, and He became still…
I had read Ramkrishna Kathamrita, .. and I knew that this condition is called ‘samadhi’. I had never seen such spiritual state before, and I gazed in awe… ‘Hare Krishna’ kirtan was started in front of the string cot on which the Sadhu was sitting… thereafter, ‘Sitaram Sitaram’ kirtan was chanted… after some time, His beard shivered, His face moved, and He opened His eyes and looked at an attendant… He took Ganga water thrice in His palm and drank it, wiped His mouth, and washed His hands… The room was full of villagers… the discussion started as before, and the Sadhu started to say something about Gopal Jiu, and again became still and silent…
But what had happened to me, I realized that tears were ceaselessly rolling down my cheeks. I wiped the tears to hide my emotions, but couldn’t calm down my mind—‘Who is this Sadhu? Has He any link with Ramkrishnadev? Even Ramkrishnadev used to drink water after returning from Samadhi… even He used to become still while talking about God! Oh!! What will I do now..?”
Kinkar Bhumananda Ji has written--
"Some may ask-- the Path of Naam is there for ages, what is new in it?
Truth is eternal, and the path of attaining Truth is also Eternal... Thakur's Vaani is Nutan [new, unique] and Sanatan [traditional, age old] simultaneously. Its true that Path of Nam has been there for ages, but we were used to hearing phrases like 'chanting Nam respectfully yields result' etc etc... Secondly, we used to hear that we must abstain from Nam Aparadhas, as Nam Aparadhi's chanting goes in vain. THAKUR declared a new message-- chant Nam respectfully or casually or however, Nam will bear fruits, Thakur removed the obstacle named 'Nam aparadha' and made our way unthinkably easy. However, Thakur's words arent against Shastra. He proved His assurance with scriptural quotes..."
-Arise, wake up!
-who are You?
- its Me, I, whom you call, have come. Awake and chant Naam.
-O ,You have come! I have called and cried so much, at last You have remembered me? Where are You? I cant visualise You.
-What! Cant you see ME? I am here in front of you,beside you, behind you, above, below, within, outside—everywhere. I am pervading the whole Universe. There is nothing in this world except MYSELF.
……………
I will destroy your sins, agonies,worldly attachments , disease—everything. You just chant Naam.
I am friend to all, you need not worry about your family, chant NAAM. My Naam is benevolent, and I am doing, have done, will do good to you.
Chant Naam.
[FROM ‘MAHARASAYAN’ BY SRI SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH]
Oneday, a poisonous snake came in Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath's room. Thakur was engrossed in Samadhi at that time. The devotees saw with utmost fear --the snake is resting on Thakur's head, and is spreading its hood over the Master. After sometime, the snake climbed down and departed....
The divine incident is indeed an expression of Sitaram's ShivBhava. We know that our Thakur is Vishnu avatar, and its has been seen that often, the swarup of Shiva has been expressed through the Master [as is evident from the adjacent picture]. This is because, Shiva is AdiGuru, and the Gurushakti of Shiva has been blended in the Vishnuavtar of Thakur to shower grace of numerous thristy souls...
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After marching through the lanes of Nilachal with Namkirtan, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath entered the area of Chatak Parbat. Thakur entered a jungle of thorns and weeds, and amidst the darkness, a riar of dacoits was heard. The chief dacoit [Sardar] came out with his group, with frightening screams. Thakur walked into their group and stood in the centre, and started overwhelming Namkirtan. Soon, the dacoits joined the chanting of Lord’s Name, and the ecstasy continued for considerable duration.
Thakur asked thereafter- ‘how many of you are here?’
The Sardar said- ‘about 250...’
Thakur said- ‘worship of Shakti and regular exercises are suitable for you. Also, along with that, chant the Name of Lord. I will provide и with Khol and Kartal, perform Namkirtan daily in morning and evening...’
The sardar accepted the proposal and hoyfully exclaimed- ‘Hori Hori BoV.
Coconut water was offered to Thakur,
Thakur drank few sips, and the dacoits drank the ‘Prasadi water’ in turns.... And euphorically started to chant Harinam. The terrifying dacoits were changed souls, they took Thakur on their shoulders and started dancing with the blissful Namkirtan...
Usually, the usual nature of a child is to accept food items spontaneously, a child is ready to give away precious goods to eat a particular food. But such is not the feature of this Child- His nature is indeed peculiar—He cannot be fed unless the Gods are worshipped and offered food. Even the elders may eat, but this Child will never eat before Pujas—He transcends greed, and has a spontaneous wealth of dedication and devotion for Gods. In later phase, Thakur had advised- food is for mere sustenance of body’, this is not just a speech, it is the message of Light which He has practiced from childhood...
While narrating His childhood, Thakur Himself said- “At my maternal uncle’s home, there would be ecstatic Kirtan. I would dance in the Nagarkirtan. ‘there rings the sound of Harinam’— so saying, I would run out unclothed...”
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was preaching Namkirtan in South India... with limited resources and uncertain Thakur and His companions were drenching the southern areas with bliss... Once, Thakur reached a small Dharmasala [Inn] and started to chant NAAM... the underground well of that Inn had salty water, which wasn't
A strange thing happened, the water of the well turned sweet, and potable. Thakur was informed, and He said- 'This has happened because of the divine influence of Sri Sri Nam...'
==THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH said- ' how can anyone remain with so much of bliss alone?' He is a personification of bliss... the 'ananda' or bliss that He is willing to share is His innate nature... and the dispersal of Ananda among sinful, petty, downtrodden, selfish, worldly commoners is the purpose of His leela.====================Onсе, Jogendra pundit came to Sitaram, Sitaarm prostrated before him. Jogendra pandit Ubowed with folded hands, with tears his eyes, and remarked - ’ have given soo many lectures, uttered soo many advices, debated soo many times—no one was influenced, no impression at all! And today, with Your words, the country is awakened from the oceans to Himalayas... even undisciplined, Shatra-dwesi, atheists are coming to Your feet and becoming faithful, pious, devoted!’
=========
Thakur emphasized on the importance of prayers. He composed TRAIKALIK STABMALA , a collection of prayers to be recited regularly. His composition is steeped in spirituality and full of self surrender to the Lord. One example is being translated-
Asat hoitey morey loey chalo satey
Alokey loia chalo aadhar hoitey.
Amritey milao Nath nasia maran
Jyotirmoy daya kori dao darsan.
Amrita dharak jeno hotey pari ami
Upojukto kalebar karo mor tumi.
Rasana ratuk sada sumadhur Naam
Sravan koruk karno tabo gunagram.
Prativata hao nitya manosey amar
Tumimoy korey lao prem parabar.
Translation—
Bring me from evil to your goodness
Take me to Light, from the darkness.
Blend me in Nectar, where there’s no demise
Kindly appear O Lord ,let me visualize.
Please Allow me to carry that Nectar
Grant me a body to be eligible bearer.
May my tongue always chant holy Name
May my two ears listen to your fame.
O Lord come daily, within myself…
O ocean of Love, blend me in Yourself.
=====================
===================== =====================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath says--
“Be it true or imaginary, one shouldn't criticize or malign others. Those who keep on maligning others, are destined to go to hell.”
Thakur has put His command in rhyming lines-
“oporer Ninda kore jei obhajon,
bisom jwalay jwole sei onukkhon.
Ninditer pap bhare hoiya pirito,
ninduk noroke dube iha sunischito”
[a fool who maligns others,
suffers in agony always.
taking away sins from the criticised,
the critic gets dumped in Hell]
Thus, the devotees of Thakur should always refrain from back-biting, maligning, spreading disrepute. If we find any flaw in any situation, we should try to rectify it with direct constructive interaction, or else we should avoid that situation. But in any case, loose criticism should be avoided, as it is a Gateway to Hell, as opined by SRI SRI THAKUR.
=====================
JAI GURU JAI MAA
This is an incident narrated by Rev Gopal Pandit Mahasay to Rohit bhai...
''Once Thakur was to arrive at a village and all devotees were waiting for him since afternoon. However, Thakur came at night and thereafter, Prasad was offered to him and everyone had Bhog. When Baba went to sleep in a devotee's place, the lady of the house bowed before Baba (who was in sleeping position) and on raising her head , saw Ma Kali lying down. She could not believe her eyes and once again closed them and opened them again to see Ma lying there...
Frightened, she ran out of the room, calling for other devotees who came running only to see Thakur lying down normally..."
This is an incident narrated by Rev Gopal Pandit Mahasay to Rohit bhai...
''Once Thakur was to arrive at a village and all devotees were waiting for him since afternoon. However, Thakur came at night and thereafter, Prasad was offered to him and everyone had Bhog. When Baba went to sleep in a devotee's place, the lady of the house bowed before Baba (who was in sleeping position) and on raising her head , saw Ma Kali lying down. She could not believe her eyes and once again closed them and opened them again to see Ma lying there...
Frightened, she ran out of the room, calling for other devotees who came running only to see Thakur lying down normally..."
This is a very unique incident, where a devotee vowed to give riches as much as Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath's weight. Thakur sat on one side of the weighing scale, and items were piled up on the other side. Items were heaped up, but still Thakur's side remained heavier. Then, a tulsi leaf was placed, and then Thakur became lighter...
two messages from this leela-
1-Tulsi is God's favourite, and must be given in each offering.
2-there should be no vanity or 'aham' in any offering to Thakur!
=====================
Once, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was invited to the asram of Ma Anandamoyee. After a blissful meeting, Thakur was going back at noon. Maa told the devotees to hold umbrella to protect Thakur from the harsh sunlight. Thakur’s companions said that Thakur doesn’t use umbrella. Maa then took the towel from Her head and wrapped it on Thakur’s hairlocks. She said- ‘Your and My heads are not different. You are the Father, and I am Your Daughter…’
======================
When Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath used to read scriptures, often the recital would remain incomplete, as He used to get submerged in spiritual trance. Here is a narration of reading Gita-
Thakur said-
''Sri Gita is indeed the heart of Sri Bhagawan. How much can we understand it?
-Only by surrendering to Him, He kindly explains it to us; our duty consists in exclusively surrendering to Him.
Just as after tasting delicious Amrita [Nectar of immortality], there is no desire to taste anything else, after learning the philosophy of Gita, the seeker after knowledge aspires to know nothing else.''
=======================
Ms Navaneeta Devsen, well-known writer, has given a thrilling account of how Sitaram brought her father, the renowned poet Naren Dev, from the jaws of death in the article ‘Karuna tomar kon path diye’ (To how many paths does your compassion extend!) in magazines and books.This incident had been aptly Chronicled by Rev Kinkar Vitthal Ramanuja in his masterpiece 'Nabo Nabo Rupe eso' [The Eternal Festival], and thereafter translated into English by Raj Supe(Kinkar Vishwashreyananda)
“At that time my father was eighty-one years of age. Suddenly he got a stroke of coronary plus cerebral thrombosis. My father’s blood sugar was also quite high; he was lying inert in coma for twelve full days. The left side of the body had been paralyzed; the left hand had been numbed. There was no possibility of survival. There was an oxygen tube in the nose, glucose was being
pumped up through the hand and there was one more needle for some other medicine. The Fowler’s bed made of iron had been ordered. Two senior nurses had been posted on duty for day and night. I flew from Delhi and reached. Everybody was quite sad at heart.
Just then Sitaramdas Omkarnath, who was like a sannyasi- friend of my father, came to know that my father was on deathbed. The author of ‘Nirakshar’ and a childhood friend of my father Charandas Ghosh was a classmate of Sitaram – it was through him that he knew my father. Hearing of my father’s illness, one day Sitaram came to see him. Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was always surrounded by Ram Naam. So when he came to the hospital, a group of disciples who sang Naam Samkirtan followed him. I, who am a great sinner, heard the Samkirtan and ran; I entreated: “Thakur! Though my father is unconscious, he must be conscious somewhere deep down, but if he hears Hari Naam there is a possibility he might die from fear. One hears; in order to recover from disease it is extremely necessary to have the self-confidence to fight the disease and live. If my father hears Hari Naam he will think his time is up. Therefore please don’t
stop the struggle that is in him. Stop Naam Kirtan!”
Omkarnath Thakur smiled and said, “Let the singing of Naam go on down there. Come, I shall come up alone.”
My father’s eyes were closed. The doors and windows were closed! It was summer. Eleven in the morning! One electric bulb was on. The quarrelsome nurse wasn’t allowing anyone in: ‘Visitors not allowed.’ We requested the nurse to go out – she refused! She had already warned, “Until the doctor comes you cannot feed the patient any prasad etc.” She was scared seeing the sadhu baba. She probably thought; ‘Now he will perform some mantra tantra and get the patient to drink the washing off his feet and do such other (ridiculous) things.’
Sitaram went to my father and bent down. He fondly caressed his forehead and called out, “Naren! Naren! Naren! What’s the matter, brother?” The eyes that had been closed for twelve long days suddenly showed signs of animation –the eyelids trembled. My mother, my aunt, the nurse and I looked on nonplussed –my father had opened his eyes and he was looking at us. Red, blazing eyes –red as blood! As such there was no focus in the direction of his sight; even then he looked at Omkarnath who stood on the side.
“How are you brother?” asked Omkarnath, laughing and in tones of notorious mongering.
What a surprise! My father’s lips moved. He said casually but in indistinct tones, “I am exactly the way you have kept me. How else, I say?” Omkarnath broke into laughter, “Ah! Back to your pranks? Not now! When you get well and stand up I will check you out!” My father became quiet.
Sitaram consoled me: “Don’t worry! Your father will get up after three or four days.” Then, offering a namaskara, he went away. Hari Naam Samkirtan assumed a greater momentum.
My father was not an initiate; he wasn’t even a devotee in that sense of the word. His human relationships were extremely heartfelt, very fond and affable! Omkarnath Thakur indeed went away but the nurse was perturbed. She had never seen anyone effortlessly call back a patient from twelve days of coma. I don’t know how Sitaram Thakur divined it, but my father became fully conscious within four days. What’s more, there was movement in the left hand and foot that had been crippled for fifteen days. My father started going to the bathroom unassisted. Dr. Shailen Sen said: “This is a medical miracle! With pure will power he has made the impossible possible.” That Indian nurse was however completely overwhelmed. If she had not been in the room at that time God knows if the doctor had believed us. One never heard of Sitaram working out any charms or magical spells. Besides, whatever had happened was not a medical miracle. I think Thakur had spoken in the most ordinary way to my father. He had merely awakened the latent consciousness that lay deep down even in the state of coma. This is not too difficult a job for the yogis and sannyasis. My father lived for two years after this; he walked about in perfect health, climbed up and down the four floors of the house – everything was normal. When we told him about this incidence after he returned to consciousness, he said, “Yes, I remember, Sitaram had come!” ...."
====================
Once, Prof Tarasankar Bhattacharya and Kinkar Bhumanandadev was present at Jagadhhatri puja at Ramananda Math. When Thakur offered flowers to the Deity of Ma Jagadhatri, they saw that Maa’s face was radiant with joy. .. and suddenly, in front of them, drops of tears rolled down the cheeks of MAA. They exclaimed in awe- ‘Babaa… there are tears in Maa’s eyes’ .. Thakur became still in Samadhi…
=====================
A sweet conversation of Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath, and Sriman Madhav Swamiji [who was a Sakha of Vrajadham in Krishna Lila, as stated by Thakur]...
Oneday, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was seeing a picture of Gopal. The Gopal was chubby and sweet, and Thakur saw it with love and interest. Thakur commented- ‘This is the fruit of Madhav’s work, Madhav has fed Him so much of Chhana [curdled/ possetted milk]…’
(Madhav Swamiji used to feed Thakur lovingly, and often tried to offer nutritious foods like ‘chhana’ for Thakur’s health. Thus, Thakur made this sweet comment).
Thakur called Swamiji and asked him –‘have you seen this picture. Do you have any relation with Him [Gopal]?’
Madhav Swamiji said- ‘yes’. Then he wanted to take the picture, but Thakur showed childish possessiveness and said- ‘I will not give this. When u want to see Him, you may come to me for seeing this picture.’
Such was the beauty of Thakur’s Leela with His dear disciples…
Sweet and enjoyable… yet so much to contemplate and analyse….
[Source- a narration by Kinkar Sharanandaji]
=====================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH said- ' how can anyone remain with so much of bliss alone?'
He is a personification of bliss... the 'ananda' or bliss that He is willing to share is His innate nature... and the dispersal of Ananda among sinful, petty, downtrodden, selfish, worldly commoners is the purpose of His leela.
=====================
'For saving the Mankind , You have come,
So why do You pretend like this, o Narayan?
In the worldly ties, bound by my deeds,
When I was about to be drowned helplessly-
Then You came with the knife of Naam,
And cut apart all my bondages.
I never called You for liberation,
O Patitpavan, You came on Your own.
This poet has nothing in this world,
This self can only offer countless pranams at Thy feet.'
[a stanza from a Poem by Kinkar Ashimananda—
Sushil Kr Bandopadhay, a Brave desperate disciple of Omkarnathdev]
======================
Several
years ago... devotees of Bhadreswar had received a news that Thakur
would come next morning to do 'bheet-puja' [puja at the base for
construction].. they were all astonished, telephone facility wasnt
there, and they didnot know what to arrange. After enqiring from others,
they came to know that some sand, cement and bricks had to be bought.
Money was scarce, and the shopkeeper said that there
was no small sales, a full sack of cement was rather too costly. So,
they gathered some cement and sand from a neighbour's construction-site,
and few bricks from a brother's shop. When Thakur came next morning,
they received Him with a smile- 'Baba, everything is ready'. Thakur
observed the items with a smile and exclaimed- 'E to sob chorai maal!'
['oh!all these are stolen items.'] this humorous remark indicates the
Omniscient swarup of our beloved Master...
======================
A
lady had been initiated by Thakur at Malda, but later her husband
took diksha elsewhere. Thereafter, Thakur was at Rishikes, she told
Thakur about her husband’s separate Guru lineage, and Thakur said—“your
husband’s guru is your guru” and got engrossed in Samadhi. The lady was
crying incessantly, as if she was going to die... When Thakur recovered
from Samadhi, and later entered His room for
taking prasadan, she was told to enter the room. Thakur had not yet
started eating, and Madhav Swamiji was beside Thakur, as usual, like a
Mother.
Swamiji told Thakur—“Baba, are You so cruel? Cant You see how much this Ma has been crying? Dont You remember that You gave her mantra at Malda? Why are You telling her to accept her husband’s guru in Your place?"
Thakur smiled, put His arms forward, and exclaimed—“She is Mine”.
Swamiji said—“Then why were You saying otherwise, why did You make her cry all day?”.
Thakur replied—“ Just to test how much she loves This Self...”... Thakur also said that He has been defeated by the extent of devotion.’ This reminded us of the Shloka in Bhagavtam-
'ahaṁ bhakta-parādhīno hy asvatantra iva dvija
sādhubhir grasta-hṛdayobhaktair bhakta-jana-priyaḥ '
[I am completely under the control of My devotees. Indeed, I am not at all independent. Because My devotees are completely devoid of material desires, I sit only within the cores of their hearts. What to speak of My devotee, even those who are devotees of My devotee are very dear to Me.]
Swamiji told Thakur—“Baba, are You so cruel? Cant You see how much this Ma has been crying? Dont You remember that You gave her mantra at Malda? Why are You telling her to accept her husband’s guru in Your place?"
Thakur smiled, put His arms forward, and exclaimed—“She is Mine”.
Swamiji said—“Then why were You saying otherwise, why did You make her cry all day?”.
Thakur replied—“ Just to test how much she loves This Self...”... Thakur also said that He has been defeated by the extent of devotion.’ This reminded us of the Shloka in Bhagavtam-
'ahaṁ bhakta-parādhīno hy asvatantra iva dvija
sādhubhir grasta-hṛdayobhaktair bhakta-jana-priyaḥ '
[I am completely under the control of My devotees. Indeed, I am not at all independent. Because My devotees are completely devoid of material desires, I sit only within the cores of their hearts. What to speak of My devotee, even those who are devotees of My devotee are very dear to Me.]
======================
Thakur
had revived Sri. Padmalochan Mukherjee from the jaws of death at
Calcutta Medical College ... this incident had become the headlines in
news papers. The declaration of the attending nurse is given below:
'' I am Sister.G.Wood,attached to Noronha's Beaureau of 25 Ripon Street,Calcutta-16. I came on a case in cabin 4MLS Ward M.C.Hospital on last sunday 11th May at quarter to eight in the
morning, The patient was suffering from portal cirrhosis plus haematemesis with malaena. the patient was in a dying condition. When I came,the doctor had given him only two hours to live and another doctor four hours.
At about 10 o'clock , the patient after receiving aminophylline injection through drip i.v.,worked into a convulsion and then was dead for ten munites. I informed the doctor,i called the doctor, but till the doctor was coming,his Guru arrived. GurudevOmkarnath Baba arrived and i told him, 'you are too late,the man is dead.' And he showed me his closed fist and he said, 'no,he is here.' And he walked into the room amd immediately touched the chest of the patient, and the patient revived..."
'' I am Sister.G.Wood,attached to Noronha's Beaureau of 25 Ripon Street,Calcutta-16. I came on a case in cabin 4MLS Ward M.C.Hospital on last sunday 11th May at quarter to eight in the
morning, The patient was suffering from portal cirrhosis plus haematemesis with malaena. the patient was in a dying condition. When I came,the doctor had given him only two hours to live and another doctor four hours.
At about 10 o'clock , the patient after receiving aminophylline injection through drip i.v.,worked into a convulsion and then was dead for ten munites. I informed the doctor,i called the doctor, but till the doctor was coming,his Guru arrived. GurudevOmkarnath Baba arrived and i told him, 'you are too late,the man is dead.' And he showed me his closed fist and he said, 'no,he is here.' And he walked into the room amd immediately touched the chest of the patient, and the patient revived..."
======================
‘Once,
a temporary structure had broken down at Mahamilan Math. The Asramites
were upset, and many were trying to find out whose fault has contributed
to this disaster!
Thakur said—‘an incident is an incident! Don’t find other’s faults. Everything happens for something good.’
Thakur has warned us before the spread of criticism. In the context of criticism [finding faults], Baba gives us many advices and directives, still we tend to forget, still the criticism continues. “Those who have faults within themselves, tend to see hear and utter other’s faults”... “if you want to find faults, search your own faults—self criticism is the way for self rectification.”...’
[an extract from Thakur Katha, by Sri Madhav Swamiji]
Thakur said—‘an incident is an incident! Don’t find other’s faults. Everything happens for something good.’
Thakur has warned us before the spread of criticism. In the context of criticism [finding faults], Baba gives us many advices and directives, still we tend to forget, still the criticism continues. “Those who have faults within themselves, tend to see hear and utter other’s faults”... “if you want to find faults, search your own faults—self criticism is the way for self rectification.”...’
[an extract from Thakur Katha, by Sri Madhav Swamiji]
=======================
Sri Aditya Kr De Chowdhury had recollected in his book ‘Srichoroner Chhayay Chhayay’-
Year 1944… a stranger group of Kirtan had come to our village… I thought- ‘it must be a group collecting money for some flood relief etc..’ … I thought of avoiding them with all my effort. But I heard that they aren’t asking for money, and are politely rejecting any monetary aids which are being voluntarily offered… What they sing is not exactly a song.. they are repeating these 2 lines in different tunes and rythms-
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare;
Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare…….
….. Oneday, feeling a strong attraction, I went to meet the Sadhu who headed the Kirtan group… The Sadhu asked me- ‘Baba, where do you stay?’ I replied- ‘I live in this village’…
Guruprasanga was going on.. suddenly I saw—the Sadhu became silent, His neck flexed twice, and His lips [within the beard] shivered, and He became still…
I had read Ramkrishna Kathamrita, .. and I knew that this condition is called ‘samadhi’. I had never seen such spiritual state before, and I gazed in awe… ‘Hare Krishna’ kirtan was started in front of the string cot on which the Sadhu was sitting… thereafter, ‘Sitaram Sitaram’ kirtan was chanted… after some time, His beard shivered, His face moved, and He opened His eyes and looked at an attendant… He took Ganga water thrice in His palm and drank it, wiped His mouth, and washed His hands… The room was full of villagers… the discussion started as before, and the Sadhu started to say something about Gopal Jiu, and again became still and silent…
But what had happened to me, I realized that tears were ceaselessly rolling down my cheeks. I wiped the tears to hide my emotions, but couldn’t calm down my mind—‘Who is this Sadhu? Has He any link with Ramkrishnadev? Even Ramkrishnadev used to drink water after returning from Samadhi… even He used to become still while talking about God! Oh!! What will I do now..?”
=======================
SRI MADHAV SWAMIJI during Thakur's Rog Leela-
some glimpses-
1- Oneday, Thakur just made an ailing cry, and Madhav Swamiji had come our running from the toilet, oblivious of his clothes bodily cleanliness etc—“What has happened to my Baba???” with the pinnacle of Guru Bhakti, Madhav Swamiji had transcended all his bodily thoughts and bindings... And this stage is the Supreme Goal of all Sadhanas...
2- oneday, Thakur was feeling some discomfort, and all the attendants were trying to place the pillows in proper place, and do whatever possible to relieve Him. But Thakur said-- "call Madhav".. Swamiji came and caressed Thakur like a Mother, placed the pillows in proper order, and called Thakur lovingly, and Thakur felt comfortable.
3- On the night of Thakur's mortal departure, He said-- 'Madhav, Take Me, take Me...'
Swamiji-- 'where Baba?'
Thakur--'Antarey... within...'
some glimpses-
1- Oneday, Thakur just made an ailing cry, and Madhav Swamiji had come our running from the toilet, oblivious of his clothes bodily cleanliness etc—“What has happened to my Baba???” with the pinnacle of Guru Bhakti, Madhav Swamiji had transcended all his bodily thoughts and bindings... And this stage is the Supreme Goal of all Sadhanas...
2- oneday, Thakur was feeling some discomfort, and all the attendants were trying to place the pillows in proper place, and do whatever possible to relieve Him. But Thakur said-- "call Madhav".. Swamiji came and caressed Thakur like a Mother, placed the pillows in proper order, and called Thakur lovingly, and Thakur felt comfortable.
3- On the night of Thakur's mortal departure, He said-- 'Madhav, Take Me, take Me...'
Swamiji-- 'where Baba?'
Thakur--'Antarey... within...'
=======================
After
SANDHYARATI, Naam was continuing with divine vigour. Some localites
were gathering, meanwhile, an old foreigner lady came and sat down. She
told us that she had come out on India tour, and was visiting important
temples and pilgrimages and saints. She seemed to be devoted and
spirtually inclined. Gradually, the temple premisces got packed with
people...
THAKUR said-- ''start dancing and move in circle and chant Naam..."
On being instructed by BABA, Naam started with blissful dancing. The foreigner lady started clapping. That ecstatic Nam and melody and dancing seemed to fill the sky and surroundings of that town. After sometime, Thakur got engrossed in Samadhi...
[an extract from 'Sri Sri Nam Prachar Lila' by Kinkar Dheerananada]
THAKUR said-- ''start dancing and move in circle and chant Naam..."
On being instructed by BABA, Naam started with blissful dancing. The foreigner lady started clapping. That ecstatic Nam and melody and dancing seemed to fill the sky and surroundings of that town. After sometime, Thakur got engrossed in Samadhi...
[an extract from 'Sri Sri Nam Prachar Lila' by Kinkar Dheerananada]
=======================
Thakur
Sitaramdas Omkarnath proclaimed that a Bhakta reaches the pinnacle of
Yogic feats only by chanting Nam. Thakur has documented His philosophy
in the following verses~
'Jopo jodi Ram naam tumi onibar,
Kono jog proyojon hobena tomar.
Jagiben Ma amar Ram nam shuni,
Jopo naam re pothik,dibos rojoni.'
MEANS-
'Chanting the Ram Nam, if you continue,
No other yoga will be necessary for you.
Hearing Ram Nam, the Mother will awaken,
O Traveller, day and night, chant Holy Name.'
Dayal Maharaj [Ramdayal majumdar Mahasay] was a renowned Yogi, a disciple of Sri Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasay. He taught some yogic mudras, but practising these mudras was very difficult for Sitaram, as He was in a state transcending all the Chakras. Samadhi was a spontaneous and common event of His spiritual life. Sitaram narrated His difficulties to Dayal Maharaj, and the Yogi remarked-'You have completed all works by JAPA, how will You bring down the Prana?! Go, You need no further Yogas~!'
The implementation of this NamYoga has found expression even in the lives of Thakur’s Leelaparsads. Once,in Varanasi, Sri Madhav Swamiji had attained a stage where he had no control of his body.. there were spontaneous mudras and utterance of Omkar and various slokas, and he was unable to do 'seva'. Thakur used to tell other disciples to look after Swamiji, and after coming down to worldly consciousness, Swamiji used to enquire about Thakur's seva. At that time, Thakur most endearingly dragged Swami Hariharananda ji to an almost dark and desolate room where the most devoted sadhak-disciple Sriman Madhav Swamiji, was in a samadhi state for days-- almost without any food or drinks.
'Look, here is your YOGA'-exclaimed Sri Thakur so fondly. What exactly he wanted to convey to Swamiji is that Yoga- samadhi is also possible by virue of Naam-japa, Guru-seva and above all, SriGuru-kripa.
'Jopo jodi Ram naam tumi onibar,
Kono jog proyojon hobena tomar.
Jagiben Ma amar Ram nam shuni,
Jopo naam re pothik,dibos rojoni.'
MEANS-
'Chanting the Ram Nam, if you continue,
No other yoga will be necessary for you.
Hearing Ram Nam, the Mother will awaken,
O Traveller, day and night, chant Holy Name.'
Dayal Maharaj [Ramdayal majumdar Mahasay] was a renowned Yogi, a disciple of Sri Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasay. He taught some yogic mudras, but practising these mudras was very difficult for Sitaram, as He was in a state transcending all the Chakras. Samadhi was a spontaneous and common event of His spiritual life. Sitaram narrated His difficulties to Dayal Maharaj, and the Yogi remarked-'You have completed all works by JAPA, how will You bring down the Prana?! Go, You need no further Yogas~!'
The implementation of this NamYoga has found expression even in the lives of Thakur’s Leelaparsads. Once,in Varanasi, Sri Madhav Swamiji had attained a stage where he had no control of his body.. there were spontaneous mudras and utterance of Omkar and various slokas, and he was unable to do 'seva'. Thakur used to tell other disciples to look after Swamiji, and after coming down to worldly consciousness, Swamiji used to enquire about Thakur's seva. At that time, Thakur most endearingly dragged Swami Hariharananda ji to an almost dark and desolate room where the most devoted sadhak-disciple Sriman Madhav Swamiji, was in a samadhi state for days-- almost without any food or drinks.
'Look, here is your YOGA'-exclaimed Sri Thakur so fondly. What exactly he wanted to convey to Swamiji is that Yoga- samadhi is also possible by virue of Naam-japa, Guru-seva and above all, SriGuru-kripa.
=======================
 |
| Sitaramdas and Kamala Devi |
Let us glance at the Garhastya episode of Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath, as portrayed by by Sriman Madhav Swamiji—
“After the marriage materialized inspite of His reluctance, Sri Probodh [Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath] decided - ‘I will be an ideal Grihi [familyMan].’…
Thus He became an ideal Grihi. SriSri Paramhansadev used to say- ‘’Vairagya! Vairagya! You know what is Vairagya[renunciation]—Vai
Oneday, He stated in a personal addresss to KamalaMa- 'you are Kamala, are You the Kamala of this time? I wont reveal everything now, do japa and you will understand ~..... We are two Lights which have descended to teach the world~!’
Sri Probodh is an eternal renunciate even in the familylife! In the Sansar of Sri Brajanath, He is always the King with the wealth of poverty! He is always complacent, satisfied. His family resembles the family of Sudama, where Lord was pleased because of penniless complacence. This satisfaction is the doorkeeper of the temple of Mukti!
Vashisthdev has told Sri Ram- ‘ Santosh [satisfaction] is the way to welfare, it is the definition of Happiness…’…”
“After the marriage materialized inspite of His reluctance, Sri Probodh [Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath] decided - ‘I will be an ideal Grihi [familyMan].’…
Thus He became an ideal Grihi. SriSri Paramhansadev used to say- ‘’Vairagya! Vairagya! You know what is Vairagya[renunciation]—Vai
Oneday, He stated in a personal addresss to KamalaMa- 'you are Kamala, are You the Kamala of this time? I wont reveal everything now, do japa and you will understand ~..... We are two Lights which have descended to teach the world~!’
Sri Probodh is an eternal renunciate even in the familylife! In the Sansar of Sri Brajanath, He is always the King with the wealth of poverty! He is always complacent, satisfied. His family resembles the family of Sudama, where Lord was pleased because of penniless complacence. This satisfaction is the doorkeeper of the temple of Mukti!
Vashisthdev has told Sri Ram- ‘ Santosh [satisfaction] is the way to welfare, it is the definition of Happiness…’…”
======================
Kinkar Bhumananda Ji has written--
"Some may ask-- the Path of Naam is there for ages, what is new in it?
Truth is eternal, and the path of attaining Truth is also Eternal... Thakur's Vaani is Nutan [new, unique] and Sanatan [traditional, age old] simultaneously. Its true that Path of Nam has been there for ages, but we were used to hearing phrases like 'chanting Nam respectfully yields result' etc etc... Secondly, we used to hear that we must abstain from Nam Aparadhas, as Nam Aparadhi's chanting goes in vain. THAKUR declared a new message-- chant Nam respectfully or casually or however, Nam will bear fruits, Thakur removed the obstacle named 'Nam aparadha' and made our way unthinkably easy. However, Thakur's words arent against Shastra. He proved His assurance with scriptural quotes..."
======================
I am Omkarnath.. the Viewer of Omkar ...
I create the world to perform Leela, and dissolve the world in Myself at the end...
I am omnipresent like the Sky... the world is an Image of NAM [Divine Name/Sound]..
I create the world to perform Leela, and dissolve the world in Myself at the end...
I am omnipresent like the Sky... the world is an Image of NAM [Divine Name/Sound]..
======================
THE SECRET OF SITARAM'S NAAM YOGA...
as analyzed by Sri Madhav Swamiji-
"The articulated Sound unites with 'Prana' through 'Vaak Sadhana'and merges into Omkar- It attains the 'Swarup' (identity) of emotions get expressed- tears roll down the cheeks while chanting RAM RAM - why? The reason is- the focussed mind has touched the resounding 'Prana'. Chanting Lord name in the mouth (Baikhari) leads to unification 'Vaak' and 'Prana'- this does not occur suddenlyl, it is a gradual revelation of sincere practice. The articulated sound (Baikhari Vaak) is purified, and retrogradely returns to the heart (Madhyama). This heart is the abode of all 'Satwik bhavas' (holy emotions). More intense the 'Bhava'. Stronger is the touch of 'Prana'. Intermittent touch of 'Prana' leads to interrupted 'bhavas', continual touch unveils the 'Maha Bhava'...
In Thakur's philosophy, the primary emphasis is on 'Vaak ' or 'Sound'. The 'Vaak's motion, stability and dissolution; the bonding of 'Vaak' and 'Prana' with the mind in the form of 'Sakhi' (mediator)- these aspencs comprise the basis tenet of 'Omkar Vaad'..."
as analyzed by Sri Madhav Swamiji-
"The articulated Sound unites with 'Prana' through 'Vaak Sadhana'and merges into Omkar- It attains the 'Swarup' (identity) of emotions get expressed- tears roll down the cheeks while chanting RAM RAM - why? The reason is- the focussed mind has touched the resounding 'Prana'. Chanting Lord name in the mouth (Baikhari) leads to unification 'Vaak' and 'Prana'- this does not occur suddenlyl, it is a gradual revelation of sincere practice. The articulated sound (Baikhari Vaak) is purified, and retrogradely returns to the heart (Madhyama). This heart is the abode of all 'Satwik bhavas' (holy emotions). More intense the 'Bhava'. Stronger is the touch of 'Prana'. Intermittent touch of 'Prana' leads to interrupted 'bhavas', continual touch unveils the 'Maha Bhava'...
In Thakur's philosophy, the primary emphasis is on 'Vaak ' or 'Sound'. The 'Vaak's motion, stability and dissolution; the bonding of 'Vaak' and 'Prana' with the mind in the form of 'Sakhi' (mediator)- these aspencs comprise the basis tenet of 'Omkar Vaad'..."
=========================
-Arise, wake up!
-who are You?
- its Me, I, whom you call, have come. Awake and chant Naam.
-O ,You have come! I have called and cried so much, at last You have remembered me? Where are You? I cant visualise You.
-What! Cant you see ME? I am here in front of you,beside you, behind you, above, below, within, outside—everywhere. I am pervading the whole Universe. There is nothing in this world except MYSELF.
……………
I will destroy your sins, agonies,worldly attachments , disease—everything. You just chant Naam.
I am friend to all, you need not worry about your family, chant NAAM. My Naam is benevolent, and I am doing, have done, will do good to you.
Chant Naam.
[FROM ‘MAHARASAYAN’ BY SRI SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH]
======================
=======================
Shastras
[scriptures] tell us about that Lord. The Shastras narrate His Leelas
[Divine acts], and also states the various paths- Gyan[wisdom], Bhakti
[devotion], Prema [love] etc. The fulfillment of Human life lies in
knowing the path and approach and thereby attaining Lord. Thus, Sitaram
was attracted to the divine Language Sanskrit from His childhood days...
One by one—He mastered Kavya, Vyakaran,
Shankhya, Upanisad, Puran, the entire Vedanta. Inspite of being
qualified in every subject, He considered titles and certificates as
disease...
Gradually, He composed numerous pieces of spiritual literature which summarised the essence of all Shastras.. establishment of scriptural doctrines has always supplemented Thakur's overflowing Love.. and the intermingling of Love and scriptural adherence is a characteristic aspect of Thakur's Leela...
Gradually, He composed numerous pieces of spiritual literature which summarised the essence of all Shastras.. establishment of scriptural doctrines has always supplemented Thakur's overflowing Love.. and the intermingling of Love and scriptural adherence is a characteristic aspect of Thakur's Leela...
'=====================
Oneday, a poisonous snake came in Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath's room. Thakur was engrossed in Samadhi at that time. The devotees saw with utmost fear --the snake is resting on Thakur's head, and is spreading its hood over the Master. After sometime, the snake climbed down and departed....
The divine incident is indeed an expression of Sitaram's ShivBhava. We know that our Thakur is Vishnu avatar, and its has been seen that often, the swarup of Shiva has been expressed through the Master [as is evident from the adjacent picture]. This is because, Shiva is AdiGuru, and the Gurushakti of Shiva has been blended in the Vishnuavtar of Thakur to shower grace of numerous thristy souls...
===================
Fear not
Dont
imagine possible or impossible for me. ---i can tie elephant with lotus
fibre, drown mountains in a cow's hoof imprint. No one has the power to
scale my motion.renounce the worries of body, money, debts, i will do
the needful. call, call me, all your pains will perish.
fear not,fear not,fear not.
you chant naam. even if you cant calm down ,chant naam. let earth below your feet vanish, let skies break on your head,or let disasters come, be aloof and chant naam day and night. know this for sure-- you are in my lap, and i am protecting you carefully.
sarve nasyanti brahmande ,pravavanti punah punah,
na me bhaktah pranasyanti,nissankascha nirapadah.
why be afraid-- my devotee is never destroyed. all may perish, but my devotee will remain fearless and safe
fear not,fear not,fear not.
you chant naam. even if you cant calm down ,chant naam. let earth below your feet vanish, let skies break on your head,or let disasters come, be aloof and chant naam day and night. know this for sure-- you are in my lap, and i am protecting you carefully.
sarve nasyanti brahmande ,pravavanti punah punah,
na me bhaktah pranasyanti,nissankascha nirapadah.
why be afraid-- my devotee is never destroyed. all may perish, but my devotee will remain fearless and safe
[From 'Abhay Vaani'
penned by Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath]
penned by Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath]
======================
Once, a renowned Military Physician Dr.Jha came to examine Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath.
Thakur said lovingly ‘are your instruments working properly?’
Doctor-‘ Yes, 1 have checked them before coming to examine You.’
The Doctor started to record Thakur’s Blood ressure, and was amazed to find that the Blood Pressure was remarkably different in two arms....
Then, the Doctor did ECG, and found that the graph was strikingly erroneous.
Doctor exclaimed- ‘Baba, are You fine?’ Thakur said- 4 am fine. But are your "instruments fine?’The startled doctor checked the instrument on 'another person, and found it okay. Doctor said- ‘Babaa, the ECG is like that of a moribund patient, but.. You are smiling!!’
The Doctor wanted to publish his experience with proofs in a medical journal, and Thakur said- ‘you may do so, but you cannot mention My name.’
Thakur said lovingly ‘are your instruments working properly?’
Doctor-‘ Yes, 1 have checked them before coming to examine You.’
The Doctor started to record Thakur’s Blood ressure, and was amazed to find that the Blood Pressure was remarkably different in two arms....
Then, the Doctor did ECG, and found that the graph was strikingly erroneous.
Doctor exclaimed- ‘Baba, are You fine?’ Thakur said- 4 am fine. But are your "instruments fine?’The startled doctor checked the instrument on 'another person, and found it okay. Doctor said- ‘Babaa, the ECG is like that of a moribund patient, but.. You are smiling!!’
The Doctor wanted to publish his experience with proofs in a medical journal, and Thakur said- ‘you may do so, but you cannot mention My name.’
===========================
THAKUR’S
Grace always dispelled the queries of sincere aspirants, and drenched
the searching souls with eternal Nectar… Prof Amalendu Bhusan
Bhattacharya, scientist of Delhi IIT, went to a religious gathering at
Panchsheel Park, where Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was giving Darsan to
numerous devotees. Prof Bhattacharya went there as a critic, and not as
an admirer. But on seeing Thakur, he felt an
inner change, and thought that he had been waiting for Thakur
throughout his life. When he went near Thakur, Thakur wrote on a piece
of paper- ‘Gurudev is acceptin you’…
Later,at Hrisikes, he heard that Thakur was narrating different aspects of spiritual pursuit, including Naad upasana. The concept of Anahata Naad [spontaneous divine Sound] was absolutely weird to the Physics Scientist. Being an established researcher in Sound, the physicist was a bit annoyed at the ‘unscientific’ concept of inner music. Suddenly, the platform of his scientific studies was shaken by a strange experience, he started hearing ‘hare krishna’ mahamantra in various tunes. Prof Amalendu Bhusan Bhattacharya had written-
‘I don’t have the capacity to describe the melody of that Divine Sound. Each line was perfect and impressive and articulate.. each sound seemed to be a wave of the Eternal ocean of universe. All the sounds which I have heard till date seemed distorted and dry… the sounds of the world are connected with external ear and intellect, the Anahata Naad is connected with inner consciousness…
Later,at Hrisikes, he heard that Thakur was narrating different aspects of spiritual pursuit, including Naad upasana. The concept of Anahata Naad [spontaneous divine Sound] was absolutely weird to the Physics Scientist. Being an established researcher in Sound, the physicist was a bit annoyed at the ‘unscientific’ concept of inner music. Suddenly, the platform of his scientific studies was shaken by a strange experience, he started hearing ‘hare krishna’ mahamantra in various tunes. Prof Amalendu Bhusan Bhattacharya had written-
‘I don’t have the capacity to describe the melody of that Divine Sound. Each line was perfect and impressive and articulate.. each sound seemed to be a wave of the Eternal ocean of universe. All the sounds which I have heard till date seemed distorted and dry… the sounds of the world are connected with external ear and intellect, the Anahata Naad is connected with inner consciousness…
==================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath sitting in front of His car. which was named 'Biswaprem'.
So many Leelas have been enacted with this car as a witness. Thakur has travelled from village to village, town to town, door to door, in this car. Thakur would sit in the rear seat with Mahimanandaji, and some other devotees, Sri Madhav Swamiji would be seen in the front seat. The Omkardanda of Thakur and Swamiji's sannyasdanda would be aligned linearly in the car, and the journey of Bliss would continue in full vigour...
One incident~ Thakur has seated in the car, and the car has just started. Some arrogant unruly young men slapped the car and halted it. They said- 'doing Gurugiri in the garb of a saint!! no worries about food or shelter!! Babaji, just see, we are unemployed, and it is we who need money. please give us some money.'
Thakur peeped out and smiled- 'Oh my sons. I dont have Artha [money]. I may give Paramartha if u aspire for it. But if u want Artha, I will tell my rich disciples to give u whatever u need.'
Thakur's smile worked a miracle, and the disrespectful youths fell on His feet and pleaded for mercy...
So many Leelas have been enacted with this car as a witness. Thakur has travelled from village to village, town to town, door to door, in this car. Thakur would sit in the rear seat with Mahimanandaji, and some other devotees, Sri Madhav Swamiji would be seen in the front seat. The Omkardanda of Thakur and Swamiji's sannyasdanda would be aligned linearly in the car, and the journey of Bliss would continue in full vigour...
One incident~ Thakur has seated in the car, and the car has just started. Some arrogant unruly young men slapped the car and halted it. They said- 'doing Gurugiri in the garb of a saint!! no worries about food or shelter!! Babaji, just see, we are unemployed, and it is we who need money. please give us some money.'
Thakur peeped out and smiled- 'Oh my sons. I dont have Artha [money]. I may give Paramartha if u aspire for it. But if u want Artha, I will tell my rich disciples to give u whatever u need.'
Thakur's smile worked a miracle, and the disrespectful youths fell on His feet and pleaded for mercy...
=====================
One
day. a devotee asked Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath-' Who is greater- a
man who loves God and neglects men, or one who loves man and neglects
God?'
Very crucial question... a question that often haunts our mind....
Thakur replied casualiy-'a person who loves GOD loves Man automatically, and a person who doesnt love God cannot truely love mankind] atheist's Love will be incomplete and selfish love]'
Very crucial question... a question that often haunts our mind....
Thakur replied casualiy-'a person who loves GOD loves Man automatically, and a person who doesnt love God cannot truely love mankind] atheist's Love will be incomplete and selfish love]'
==================
After marching through the lanes of Nilachal with Namkirtan, Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath entered the area of Chatak Parbat. Thakur entered a jungle of thorns and weeds, and amidst the darkness, a riar of dacoits was heard. The chief dacoit [Sardar] came out with his group, with frightening screams. Thakur walked into their group and stood in the centre, and started overwhelming Namkirtan. Soon, the dacoits joined the chanting of Lord’s Name, and the ecstasy continued for considerable duration.
Thakur asked thereafter- ‘how many of you are here?’
The Sardar said- ‘about 250...’
Thakur said- ‘worship of Shakti and regular exercises are suitable for you. Also, along with that, chant the Name of Lord. I will provide и with Khol and Kartal, perform Namkirtan daily in morning and evening...’
The sardar accepted the proposal and hoyfully exclaimed- ‘Hori Hori BoV.
Coconut water was offered to Thakur,
Thakur drank few sips, and the dacoits drank the ‘Prasadi water’ in turns.... And euphorically started to chant Harinam. The terrifying dacoits were changed souls, they took Thakur on their shoulders and started dancing with the blissful Namkirtan...
===========
When
Omkarnathdev was doing (Namprachar in Nasik, a widow icame running and
prostrated before Thakur. Her body was trembling, and voice was getting
choked in emotion.
She narrated ‘.Oneday, in my dream, I had seen a group of saints chanting HareKrishna Tarakbrahma Nam. In the centre,I had seen a thin Saint with matted hairlocks, paduka on chest, and a holy flag on shoulder, just like You!... I have never thought that my dream will come trye! After seeing You, Baba, my dream is being materialized completely. My body is shivering in awe and joy... 'Baba, Baba, You are Lord... bless
She narrated ‘.Oneday, in my dream, I had seen a group of saints chanting HareKrishna Tarakbrahma Nam. In the centre,I had seen a thin Saint with matted hairlocks, paduka on chest, and a holy flag on shoulder, just like You!... I have never thought that my dream will come trye! After seeing You, Baba, my dream is being materialized completely. My body is shivering in awe and joy... 'Baba, Baba, You are Lord... bless
===========
On
the 10th of Vaishakh [24 th April 1937], while Thakur Sitaramdas
Omkarnath was residing at Puri, JagannathDev appeared holding the flute,
aureoled in transcendent light, accompanied with sweet sound of the
bell. “Go, go, go and give the Naam,” saying this, He disappeared. To
that task therefore He dedicated himself. His own untiring mission since
then was to bestow the Divine Naam, to preach it,
to disperse it, broadcast it and to fill the world with its bliss. Lord
Jagannath made the Master available to us all. Commissioned by LORD, He
set about the mission and emerged as the Apostle of Naam (God’s Name).
He administered Siddha Yoga to about every seeker, irrespective of caste
or creed.
extract from 'PURUSOTTAM OMKARNATH' by Sri Madhav Swamiji-
THAKUR had written- ' As far as spiritual endeavour is concerened, just Nad [divine sound] remained in right side, I wasn’t able to utter even Omkar….
9th or 10th of Baisakh, at midnight, I changed My clothes and started meditation.In the right side of head, I heard the sound of ‘Nupur’ of a Child’s feet. I felt as if I am unable to sit… The Nad [divine sound] continued. I felt as if I am losing consciousness, and then, a round Halo appeared. In the Halo of Light, Jagannathdev came from the left and said smilingly- ‘JA JA NAAM DIGE JA’ [Go and spread the Holy Name]…’
extract from 'PURUSOTTAM OMKARNATH' by Sri Madhav Swamiji-
THAKUR had written- ' As far as spiritual endeavour is concerened, just Nad [divine sound] remained in right side, I wasn’t able to utter even Omkar….
9th or 10th of Baisakh, at midnight, I changed My clothes and started meditation.In the right side of head, I heard the sound of ‘Nupur’ of a Child’s feet. I felt as if I am unable to sit… The Nad [divine sound] continued. I felt as if I am losing consciousness, and then, a round Halo appeared. In the Halo of Light, Jagannathdev came from the left and said smilingly- ‘JA JA NAAM DIGE JA’ [Go and spread the Holy Name]…’
=============
"Just
keep calling out! He knows better than you as to what is good for you
and what is bad for you. What has been God-given must be reasonable - it
has to be! Why fear?
Brother, there is nothing in this world like suffering. The more suffering there is, the more does the human being embrace God.
How many woes you have gone through? Think of Mother Sit a - she suffered despite being the wife of God. Think of N ala and Damayanti.
Think of the tale of Srivatsa’s distress. Think of the misfortunes of Pandavas. Think of the pain of Nanda, Yashoda, boon companions of Krishna, and the beloved Radha and other consorts.
The torment of samsara gives a new path to the human being. Majority of the people who have taken to the path of God have gone through suffering in this world... "
Brother, there is nothing in this world like suffering. The more suffering there is, the more does the human being embrace God.
How many woes you have gone through? Think of Mother Sit a - she suffered despite being the wife of God. Think of N ala and Damayanti.
Think of the tale of Srivatsa’s distress. Think of the misfortunes of Pandavas. Think of the pain of Nanda, Yashoda, boon companions of Krishna, and the beloved Radha and other consorts.
The torment of samsara gives a new path to the human being. Majority of the people who have taken to the path of God have gone through suffering in this world... "
=====================
See, to relieve the eternal sorrow of My devotees, and to clear their bondage to worldly joys ,
I set ablaze the fire of sorrow outside, and take them in My lap. People see that they are suffering, but the heat of sorrow cannot touch the devotee, he sleeps fearlessly in My lap...
I set ablaze the fire of sorrow outside, and take them in My lap. People see that they are suffering, but the heat of sorrow cannot touch the devotee, he sleeps fearlessly in My lap...
======================
'Just
like other Leelas, Thakar’s establishment of His philosophical
doctrine, is divine. He has not countered any doctrine, He has not
debated with anyone. According to Him, all paths are correct, all paths
are good, just a difference in realizat ions! The Realized Truth of
Thakur is the concluding platform of all theoretical conflicts- Omkar,
the Truth kept secret by the scriptures- Omkar is Вrahmaf.Almighty].
Here, there is acknowledgement of all theories of Jeeva Jagat Iswar, Dvaita Advaita, Visistadvaita Dvaitadvaita,
Suddhadvaita, Achintyavedaved—and without going into revert or debate, Thakur has transcended all ‘Vaad’s [doctrines] and has gloriously established His own philosophy.
Whoever does spiritual practice in whichever way and may proceed religiously through whatever doctrine, will ultimately reach Omkar Brahma, by divine way, without any vague analysis. So, this unique and unprecedented Vaada doctrine] by Thakur, is named - OmkarVaad...’
Here, there is acknowledgement of all theories of Jeeva Jagat Iswar, Dvaita Advaita, Visistadvaita Dvaitadvaita,
Suddhadvaita, Achintyavedaved—and without going into revert or debate, Thakur has transcended all ‘Vaad’s [doctrines] and has gloriously established His own philosophy.
Whoever does spiritual practice in whichever way and may proceed religiously through whatever doctrine, will ultimately reach Omkar Brahma, by divine way, without any vague analysis. So, this unique and unprecedented Vaada doctrine] by Thakur, is named - OmkarVaad...’
=============
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH used to say-
‘Sitaram had run to several Siddhas, Sadhaks, Yogis, devotees, scholars etc during the period of spiritual practices, for verifying personal Anubhutis [divine realizations] with scriptural evidence... What Sitaram has disclosed through His books, you all will not have to run here and there...
‘Sitaram had run to several Siddhas, Sadhaks, Yogis, devotees, scholars etc during the period of spiritual practices, for verifying personal Anubhutis [divine realizations] with scriptural evidence... What Sitaram has disclosed through His books, you all will not have to run here and there...
==============
BALYA LILA:
The
little Baby was 1 year old. There was Astaprahar Harinam in the house,
and the maternal grandmother was sitting with her Grandson in her lap.
Everyone is filled with the ecstasy of Nam. Suddenly. The Baby became
unconscious! An obvious turmoil started, some began to weep. The Kirtan
continued however, the main ‘Gayen’ of Kirtan was a Sadhak...
Gayen said ‘the Baby is not having any Fit, He has attained Samadhi after listening to Nam. The signs of Samadhi are evident... don’t touch the baby, bring some Ganga water.’The Gayen sprinkled some Gangajal and began to chant ‘Ram Ram’. Soon,the Baby normalized. A crowd had gathered around. Dispelling the ansiety of every heart, the Baby opened His small lotus eyes, and He smiled assuringly!!...
The Gayen said thereafter ‘whenever there is divine discourse, such Samadhi may occur. This Baby is not ordinary, He is Mahapurush. Whenever this symptom, reappears, don't touch Him, and start chanting Ram Ram...’...
Gayen said ‘the Baby is not having any Fit, He has attained Samadhi after listening to Nam. The signs of Samadhi are evident... don’t touch the baby, bring some Ganga water.’The Gayen sprinkled some Gangajal and began to chant ‘Ram Ram’. Soon,the Baby normalized. A crowd had gathered around. Dispelling the ansiety of every heart, the Baby opened His small lotus eyes, and He smiled assuringly!!...
The Gayen said thereafter ‘whenever there is divine discourse, such Samadhi may occur. This Baby is not ordinary, He is Mahapurush. Whenever this symptom, reappears, don't touch Him, and start chanting Ram Ram...’...
Usually, the usual nature of a child is to accept food items spontaneously, a child is ready to give away precious goods to eat a particular food. But such is not the feature of this Child- His nature is indeed peculiar—He cannot be fed unless the Gods are worshipped and offered food. Even the elders may eat, but this Child will never eat before Pujas—He transcends greed, and has a spontaneous wealth of dedication and devotion for Gods. In later phase, Thakur had advised- food is for mere sustenance of body’, this is not just a speech, it is the message of Light which He has practiced from childhood...
While narrating His childhood, Thakur Himself said- “At my maternal uncle’s home, there would be ecstatic Kirtan. I would dance in the Nagarkirtan. ‘there rings the sound of Harinam’— so saying, I would run out unclothed...”
==========
According to Thakur’s principles-
1} GURU, MANTRA and ISTA are declared to be One as per Vedas.
2} A Guru who gives a correct Mantra should be adored without judgement, and that will lead to Ista darsan. Even if the Guru is not a Sadhak, the power of mantra will propel the Bhakta.
3} If the Mantra is wrong, then the guru cannot be called a guru, because guru is the bestower of mantra. However, Gurubhakti is an independent sadhana, and if a Gurubhakta holds onto wrong mantra without judgement, Lord Himself may come to rectify it.
4} every devotee doesn’t have unquestioned Gurubhakti. They should wait for atleast 3 years by holding strictly to the Mantra and instruction of present Guru. If 3 years of sincere effort doesn’t give any realization of Bliss, devotee can take the present guru’s permission [as far as possible] and may go to a Mahapurusha for further spiritual guidance.
5} if Guru gives an instruction which opposes the Shastras, it may be obeyed in the spirit of ‘this is my Guru’s Leela’. But if there is doubt about Guru’s power/ if the Guru is not a Mahapurus, then scriptural adherence is better.
6} it may be easy to find gurus, but it is difficult to find a proper disciple. A Guru Bhakta will surely reach the ultimate spiritual Level irrespective of Guru’s power. But a Guru will have to suffer tremendously if he cheats or misguides his disciples.
1} GURU, MANTRA and ISTA are declared to be One as per Vedas.
2} A Guru who gives a correct Mantra should be adored without judgement, and that will lead to Ista darsan. Even if the Guru is not a Sadhak, the power of mantra will propel the Bhakta.
3} If the Mantra is wrong, then the guru cannot be called a guru, because guru is the bestower of mantra. However, Gurubhakti is an independent sadhana, and if a Gurubhakta holds onto wrong mantra without judgement, Lord Himself may come to rectify it.
4} every devotee doesn’t have unquestioned Gurubhakti. They should wait for atleast 3 years by holding strictly to the Mantra and instruction of present Guru. If 3 years of sincere effort doesn’t give any realization of Bliss, devotee can take the present guru’s permission [as far as possible] and may go to a Mahapurusha for further spiritual guidance.
5} if Guru gives an instruction which opposes the Shastras, it may be obeyed in the spirit of ‘this is my Guru’s Leela’. But if there is doubt about Guru’s power/ if the Guru is not a Mahapurus, then scriptural adherence is better.
6} it may be easy to find gurus, but it is difficult to find a proper disciple. A Guru Bhakta will surely reach the ultimate spiritual Level irrespective of Guru’s power. But a Guru will have to suffer tremendously if he cheats or misguides his disciples.
=================
Thakur
Sitaramdas Omkarnath proclaimed that a Bhakta reaches the pinnacle of
Yogic feats only by chanting Nam. Thakur has documented His philosophy
in the following verses~
'Jopo jodi Ram naam tumi onibar,
Kono jog proyojon hobena tomar.
Jagiben Ma amar Ram nam shuni,
Jopo naam re pothik,dibos rojoni.'
MEANS-
'Chanting the Ram Nam, if you continue,
No other yoga will be necessary for you.
Hearing Ram Nam, the Mother will awaken,
O Traveller, day and night, chant Holy Name.'
Dayal Maharaj [Ramdayal majumdar Mahasay] was a renowned Yogi, a disciple of Sri Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasay. He taught some yogic mudras, but practising these mudras was very difficult for Sitaram, as He was in a state transcending all the Chakras. Samadhi was a spontaneous and common event of His spiritual life. Sitaram narrated His difficulties to Dayal Maharaj, and the Yogi remarked-'You have completed all works by JAPA, how will You bring down the Prana?! Go, You need no further Yogas~!'
The implementation of this NamYoga has found expression even in the lives of Thakur’s Leelaparsads. Once,in Varanasi, Sri Madhav Swamiji had attained a stage where he had no control of his body.. there were spontaneous mudras and utterance of Omkar and various slokas, and he was unable to do 'seva'. Thakur used to tell other disciples to look after Swamiji, and after coming down to worldly consciousness, Swamiji used to enquire about Thakur's seva. At that time, Thakur most endearingly dragged Swami Hariharananda ji to an almost dark and desolate room where the most devoted sadhak-disciple Sriman Madhav Swamiji, was in a samadhi state for days-- almost without any food or drinks.
'Look, here is your YOGA'-exclaimed Sri Thakur so fondly. What exactly he wanted to convey to Swamiji is that Yoga- samadhi is also possible by virue of Naam-japa, Guru-seva and above all, SriGuru-kripa.
'Jopo jodi Ram naam tumi onibar,
Kono jog proyojon hobena tomar.
Jagiben Ma amar Ram nam shuni,
Jopo naam re pothik,dibos rojoni.'
MEANS-
'Chanting the Ram Nam, if you continue,
No other yoga will be necessary for you.
Hearing Ram Nam, the Mother will awaken,
O Traveller, day and night, chant Holy Name.'
Dayal Maharaj [Ramdayal majumdar Mahasay] was a renowned Yogi, a disciple of Sri Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasay. He taught some yogic mudras, but practising these mudras was very difficult for Sitaram, as He was in a state transcending all the Chakras. Samadhi was a spontaneous and common event of His spiritual life. Sitaram narrated His difficulties to Dayal Maharaj, and the Yogi remarked-'You have completed all works by JAPA, how will You bring down the Prana?! Go, You need no further Yogas~!'
The implementation of this NamYoga has found expression even in the lives of Thakur’s Leelaparsads. Once,in Varanasi, Sri Madhav Swamiji had attained a stage where he had no control of his body.. there were spontaneous mudras and utterance of Omkar and various slokas, and he was unable to do 'seva'. Thakur used to tell other disciples to look after Swamiji, and after coming down to worldly consciousness, Swamiji used to enquire about Thakur's seva. At that time, Thakur most endearingly dragged Swami Hariharananda ji to an almost dark and desolate room where the most devoted sadhak-disciple Sriman Madhav Swamiji, was in a samadhi state for days-- almost without any food or drinks.
'Look, here is your YOGA'-exclaimed Sri Thakur so fondly. What exactly he wanted to convey to Swamiji is that Yoga- samadhi is also possible by virue of Naam-japa, Guru-seva and above all, SriGuru-kripa.
========================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath was preaching Namkirtan in South India... with limited resources and uncertain Thakur and His companions were drenching the southern areas with bliss... Once, Thakur reached a small Dharmasala [Inn] and started to chant NAAM... the underground well of that Inn had salty water, which wasn't
A strange thing happened, the water of the well turned sweet, and potable. Thakur was informed, and He said- 'This has happened because of the divine influence of Sri Sri Nam...'
=========================
 |
| with Jogendranath |
Mahamahopdhyay
Jogendranath Sankhyavedantatirtha- a veteran iconic pandit, who was
renowned for unparallel wisdom, scriptural research, oratory excellence.
His interaction with has moulded from an advisor to an admirer to a
devotee! In an initial meet, he had advised Sitaram not to read Shastras
on His own. Later, he admired Sitaram as a sage and remarked at
Sitaram’s renunciate image- ‘its mentioned
in Mahabharat, sign of Knower of Brahm is- He who covers His body with
whatsoever, Who resides wheresoever, eats whatever little [like
Sitaram]!’ Later, Jogendra pandit had declared in writing- ‘… as a
consequence of several recent incidents, it has been proven inspite of
our unwillingness – Sitaram is SriBhagwan in the Leelavigraha of a human
form!’
Once, Jogendra pandit met Sitaram, Sitaram prostrated before him. Jogendra pandit bowed with folded hands, with tears in his eyes, and remarked- ‘we have given soo many lectures, uttered soo many advices, debated soo many times—no one was influenced, no impression at all!! And today, with Your words, the country is awakened from the oceans to Himalayas… even indisciplined, Shastra-dwesi , atheists are coming to Your feet and becoming faithful, pious, devoted!!’
Once, Jogendra pandit met Sitaram, Sitaram prostrated before him. Jogendra pandit bowed with folded hands, with tears in his eyes, and remarked- ‘we have given soo many lectures, uttered soo many advices, debated soo many times—no one was influenced, no impression at all!! And today, with Your words, the country is awakened from the oceans to Himalayas… even indisciplined, Shastra-dwesi , atheists are coming to Your feet and becoming faithful, pious, devoted!!’
==THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH said- ' how can anyone remain with so much of bliss alone?' He is a personification of bliss... the 'ananda' or bliss that He is willing to share is His innate nature... and the dispersal of Ananda among sinful, petty, downtrodden, selfish, worldly commoners is the purpose of His leela.====================Onсе, Jogendra pundit came to Sitaram, Sitaarm prostrated before him. Jogendra pandit Ubowed with folded hands, with tears his eyes, and remarked - ’ have given soo many lectures, uttered soo many advices, debated soo many times—no one was influenced, no impression at all! And today, with Your words, the country is awakened from the oceans to Himalayas... even undisciplined, Shatra-dwesi, atheists are coming to Your feet and becoming faithful, pious, devoted!’
=========
Thakur emphasized on the importance of prayers. He composed TRAIKALIK STABMALA , a collection of prayers to be recited regularly. His composition is steeped in spirituality and full of self surrender to the Lord. One example is being translated-
Asat hoitey morey loey chalo satey
Alokey loia chalo aadhar hoitey.
Amritey milao Nath nasia maran
Jyotirmoy daya kori dao darsan.
Amrita dharak jeno hotey pari ami
Upojukto kalebar karo mor tumi.
Rasana ratuk sada sumadhur Naam
Sravan koruk karno tabo gunagram.
Prativata hao nitya manosey amar
Tumimoy korey lao prem parabar.
Translation—
Bring me from evil to your goodness
Take me to Light, from the darkness.
Blend me in Nectar, where there’s no demise
Kindly appear O Lord ,let me visualize.
Please Allow me to carry that Nectar
Grant me a body to be eligible bearer.
May my tongue always chant holy Name
May my two ears listen to your fame.
O Lord come daily, within myself…
O ocean of Love, blend me in Yourself.
=====================
Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath used to quote this shloka from Manusmriti~
“Dhriti Kshama Damosteyam Shouchamindriya Nigrahah
Dheer Vidya Satyamakrodho Dashakam Dharma Lakshanam”
The 10 attributes of Dharma are~
Dhriti – being unperturbed by joy and sorrow.
Kshama –power of Forgiveness
Dama - abstinence from evil, controlling senses.
Asteya - Non-Stealing others goods in mind body and speech.
Saucha – external and internal Purity/Cleanliness.
Indriya nigraha -Sense Control
Dhee - Sense of reasoning, being desirous of attaining Atmagyan.
Vidya – Knowledge, related to Soul consciousness
Satya – adherence to Truth
Akrodha – not being angry, control over the mind…
“Dhriti Kshama Damosteyam Shouchamindriya Nigrahah
Dheer Vidya Satyamakrodho Dashakam Dharma Lakshanam”
The 10 attributes of Dharma are~
Dhriti – being unperturbed by joy and sorrow.
Kshama –power of Forgiveness
Dama - abstinence from evil, controlling senses.
Asteya - Non-Stealing others goods in mind body and speech.
Saucha – external and internal Purity/Cleanliness.
Indriya nigraha -Sense Control
Dhee - Sense of reasoning, being desirous of attaining Atmagyan.
Vidya – Knowledge, related to Soul consciousness
Satya – adherence to Truth
Akrodha – not being angry, control over the mind…
===================== =====================
===================
Sri Taritbhusan De had narrated-
I had gone to East Pakistan [Banglades] for business purpose, and was sleeping. I suddenly heard a call,and when I opened my eyes, I saw Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath. I was amazed, and I thought- ‘Baba is in India now, how’s this possible?’ I noticed carefully, and saw that the continula smile on Thakur’s face was missing. Thakur seemed to be very anxious and serious. On seeing this, I felt afraid. Then, I saw that Thakur is raising His hand to render fearlessness, and then He disappeared... Suddenly, I got an information that some evil persons have informed the police that I am India’s spy, and the ruthless ‘Ansari Bahini’ was after me. My relatives started crying, and I started running, with an inner voice guiding me towards the steamer Ghat. When I reached the Ghat, a steamer had already departed, but it came back and I boarded, and the steamer left again.
Soon after, I saw about 30 men screaming from the land- ‘stop the steamer, an Indian spy is there!’ But, miraculously, no one could hear what the men were saying, and thought that those screamers were ordinary passengers! I was safely sailed back to India, and Thakur’s grace saved me..!’
=============
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH had written-
‘guru montro iste kono nahiko probhed,
Tinti ekti iha bolechen Ved...’
Guru, Mantra and Ista have no difference, the Three are ONE ... this is the message of Vedas.
Oneday, Madhav Swamiji was asked—“Why did Thakur say-- Guru, Mantra and Ista are ONE..? The three are separate, isn’t it?” Swamiji smiled and said—“From GURU, the MANTRA appears, and from MANTRA, the ISTA [aspired Deity] appears... the Three are ONE and identical... They are different manifestations of the same Power...”
===============
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATHDEV's spiritiual literature is not just vast and exhaustive, every message is his realized truth. His compositions encompass all shastras and form the eternal nectar gifted to human race for generations to come...
Thakur's compositions came as an 'avataran' or spontaneous revelation of Divine wisdom. Often, He kept writing for hours, and a Sevak had to put the punctuation marks later on.
Sriman Madhav Swamiji had analysed-- 'those who have fortunately explored THAKUR's books will realize— He is Shakta for wirshippers of Shakti, Saura for worshippers of Surya, Ganapatya for Ganesha devotees, Shaiva for Shiva worshippers, real Shankar Vedanti for Brahmavadi Formless seekers. Yet, being everyone’s very own, He is a devout Vaishnava. He is the Guide for all paths, He is the dearest Companion for each traveller.'
==================
THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH says-
'Teach yourself and teach the world. Wisdom is not there in books, it is the fruit of spiritual practice, the soul of penances. By dry recital of scriptures like birds and animals, you wont attain Wisdom even in 100 births. By worshipping Him, Wisdom will be unveiled-- by religious pursuits, the Power of Creator will embrace you..'
===========
When you lose yourself while thinking,
Mind and spirit melts in Eternal feeling.
He dwells in melted mind, Great men say it,
Let all melt- vanity, mind and spirit.
Tears in eyes for offering prayer,
Nothing else does my Lord aspire.
Pour, pour your tears at His feet,
All worries disappear, you’ll be relieved.
Whoever fortunate worships with tears,
Before him soon Lord Himself appears.
================
'Those who come as sons and daughters, Should be nurtured as dear guests.
They should be trained with tender love, But aspiration should be avoided.
There is no guarantee of life’s tenure,
And attachment must be safely curtailed. We all are dwelling at an Inn,
And we all have to depart oneday.
The world is full of alluring mockery-this should be contemplated in the mind..'
===========
If you want peace, О Mind!
Contemplate Guru’s holy feet.
You need not go to desolate places,
You need not renounce your relatives.
I you call intently, the Shiva comes,
To dispel evils, and You attain Bliss. The Light of His feet removes darkness, And goal of Human birth is fulfilled. GURU GURU GURU SRI GURU SRI GURU JAI GURU GURU chant it always.
To relieve pains and to offer solace,
To enlighten you, HE WILL COME
===============
Shri Puranjan Roy Bandopadhyay has written- ‘... I was waiting for Gurudev [THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH] to come and give the BeejMantra.
Suddenly, an unexpected un5thinkable unworldly incident occurred! I felt some Touch in the base of my spine, and a electrical power instantly ascended to my head and a turmoil followed! I was uprooted from my being and thrown into a whirling Light of Ethereal space! The seven worlds seemed to vanish, and I was swinging in the lap of Light...!...’ Shri Bandopadhyay has clarified- ‘I have heard that Anubhutis are lost if revealed. I have already lost it, and 1 have no repentance as well. I want to tell the world the power of Gurushakti which I felt.... I know- You can ignite Fire in mud, but it is neither Fire’s nor mud’s credit., it is only YOUR glory...’
================
A dedicated disciple of Thakar Sitaramdas Omkamath [Sri Shankarnath ChattopadhyayJ had narrated this incident in his memoirs-
Chaturmasya was going on... Thakur would go for few days to Ramananda Math for Jagadhhatri paja, and He instrtucted Shankarnath to look after the Chaturmasya. After Thakur departed with His disciples, Shankarnath went to the store room, and to his utter surprise, he saw that the was no food item in the store. He was perplexed, and he called Sebanandaji tooffer a solution. Sebanandaji was also very helpless, as there were no money with them, and many devotees would be coming at noon for Chaturmasya Prasadam. Shankarnath felt very annoyed on Thakur’s ruthless tests, and he decided- I will offer Prasad with whatever I have. If people are dissatisfied with the Prasad I prepare, I will tell them to go to Ramananda Math.’ In a whim, Shankarnath lit the oven and placed a pot full of Gangajal [boiled Ganga water was all which was awailable for BhogNibedanj.
After some hours, a cart came., it was full of food items, adequate for 4-5 days. The cart attendant said that all these have been sent by a zamindar for Omkamathdev’s asram. Shankarnath was so overwhelmed with the sudden arrival that he forgot to ask the zamindar's name. All the food items were unloaded, and everyone got prasadam in abundance. Shankarnath told Sebanandaji- The hot Gangajal has frightened Him so much, that He has sent all these in time! When Thakur came back after 5 days, He enquired mysteriously whether everything was fine. When this miracle was narrated, Thakur smiled and avoided the discussion!
===SShri Puranjan Roy Bandopadhyay has written- ‘... I was waiting for Gurudev [THAKUR SITARAMDAS OMKARNATH] to come and give the BeejMantra.Suddenly, an unexpected un5thinkable unworldly incident occurred! I felt some Touch in the base of my spine, and a electrical power instantly ascended to my head and a turmoil followed! I was uprooted from my being and thrown into a whirling Light of Ethereal space! The seven worlds seemed to vanish, and I was swinging in the lap of Light...!...’ Shri Bandopadhyay has clarified- ‘I have heard that Anubhutis are lost if revealed. I have already lost it, and 1 have no repentance as well. I want to tell the world the power of Gurushakti which I felt.... I know- You can ignite Fire in mud, but it is neither Fire’s nor mud’s credit., it is only YOUR glory...’ri Taritbhusan De had narrated-4 had gone to East Pakistan [Banglades] for business purpose, and was sleeping. I suddenly heard a call,and when I opened my eyes, I saw Thakur Sitaramdas Omkarnath. I was amazed, and I thought- ‘Baba is in India now, how’s this possible?’ I noticed carefully, and saw that the continula smile on Thakur’s face was missing. Thakur seemed to be very anxious and serious. On seeing this, I felt afraid. Then, I saw that Thakur is raising His hand to render fearlessness, and then He disappeared... Suddenly, I got an information that some evil persons have informed the police that I am India’s spy, and the ruthless ‘Ansari Bahini’ was after me. My relatives started crying, and I started running, with an inner voice guiding me towards the steamer Ghat. When I reached the Ghat, a steamer had already departed, but it came back and I boarded, and the steamer left again.Soon after, I saw about 30 men screaming from the land- ‘stop the steamer, an Indian spy is there!’ But, miraculously, no one could hear what the men were saying, and thought that those screamers were ordinary passengers! I was safely sailed back to India, and Thakur’s grace saved me..!’
Joy Guru...Asadharan
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