1. isbn 979-8-88572-253-7

Content: When GOD is my son

Content: Reminiscences of HIS moms

Content: Nithyananda

Content: Life Bliss Foundation

Content: Ebook ISBN: 979-8-88572-253-7

Content: Published by Nithyananda Foundation, Bangalore, India

Content: Copyright© 2006

Content: First Edition: July 2006

Content: All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic, or electronic process, or in the form of a phonographic recording; nor may it be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted, or otherwise be copied for public or private use without permission in writing from Nithyananda Publishers. In the event that you use any of the information in this book for yourself, the author and the publisher assume no responsibility for your actions.

Content: All proceeds from the sales of this book go towards supporting Nithyananda Foundation's charitable activities.

Content: Printed in India by W Q Judge Press, Bangalore, India

Content: 2

Content: When God is my son

Content: Nithyananda

Content: Introduction

Content: When God Is My Son - is a collection of reminiscences from 15 women disciples, whom Swamiji - their master, calls Mom. They have been blessed by him to grow and blossom in Vaatsalya Bhaava.

Content: There has always been a mom with Swamiji since he was a child. Till date 15 moms have joined the moms-club. As time progresses each one joins Swamiji at a moment designated by divine coincidence. Each mom is unique in her own way, and similar in many ways. Along with the motherly qualities that are common to them, their path encourages them to express their uniqueness too. These 15 moms have been graced by the master into an intimate and close space around him. In this space they are his moms, taking care of him in a loving way and at the same time being sensitive to his various needs without him verbalizing any, like an umbilical bonding that happens between a new born and the mother. In turn they experience his childlike innocence, his naughty pranks and a son's affection for a mom. It's a communion with the master through motherly love.

Content: Each mom grows through the sheer presence of the master as her son. This proximity to the master takes them on an expressway to inner transformation. For them now, the mission is their master, and the master their mission, which they nurture with love, care and strength- their innate nature. The master has shown them a path in which they flow naturally in any situation. Vaatsalya Bhaava is his blessing and a technique that he uses for them based on their being-

Content: level energy. He has given them a space around him which will never be violated or misused. This

Content: intimate trust, space and love builds a bond with the divine energy that straightaway provides a jumping

Content: board to a higher frequency of consciousness, towards enlightenment. A love born out of this pure

Content: relationship by its intrinsic nature cannot be contained and restricted to any one person or place. Swamiji

Content: explains to them you are not just mother to me. You are mother to the entire universe. That is your path.

Content: Like Yashoda saw Krishna everywhere, a mom goes beyond herself and this relationship, and reaches out

Content: to the universe. She now is ready for the ultimate transcendence.

Content: In most bhaavas the divine takes care of the disciples, but in Vaatsalya bhaava the divine allows the

Content: disciple to take care of him. There are evidences in history that people have taken care of God as their

Content: child. Bhairavi Brahmani took care of Ramakrishna like her own child, as Maria took care of Jesus, and

Content: Yashoda took care of Krishna. Numerous disciples relate to the master through the Vaatsalya bhaava even

Content: though they might not be in his physical proximity to serve and care for him.

Content: These reminiscences, from those whom he calls Moms, offer glimpses of this pure relationship. They can

Content: simply immerse one in the sweet nectar of Vaatsalya Bhaava.

Content: When God is my son

Content: Ma Nithya Meahanands Mayi

Content: Down memory lane...

Content: My mind races back to that one hot afternoon in Los Angeles. The present sets of ashamites had arrived from different parts of the US and were now staying in a hotel along with Swamiji. These were the pre-ashram days. Swamiji too had arrived in LA (July, 2005) and along with the team of to-be-ashramites, we were scouting for a ashram space in Los Angeles. That afternoon everyone except me went out for lunch. Since I was in the middle of designing some posters and also assisting Swamiji I stayed back. Soon after every one left, Swamiji casually started speaking to me on the subject of ‘mothers’. He recollected some very affectionate moments he shared with his mother Lokanayaki Amma. He explained how every child has a very special relationship with his/her mother. He said “mother is the real relationship; father is just psychological and societal”. He was further telling me all about the various interpretations and forms of this motherly energy right through mythology and ancient scriptures. I was just soaking it all up. I was hypnotized at the depths he was taking me to with the explanations. Later a thought crossed my mind “Swamiji spoke with such great understanding about the Mom attitude almost as though he was a mother himself”. Little did I know then that he is the epitome of all energies. Meanwhile I was asking Swamiji various questions and he was sweetly answering them all. What is the significance of the relationship of the woman changing from wife to mother in a marriage? How can a mom’s attitude help progress towards enlightenment? What are the changes she goes through? Was Yashoda enlightened? Are there any Yashodas now? Do all his ‘moms’ have the attitude of Yashoda towards Swamiji? Is it true that unless a woman bears a child she

Content: hasn't experienced complete womanhood? Answers to all these questions and much more followed in what turned out to be a two hour discourse from Swamiji.

Content: Swamiji explained the importance of the relationship between a mother and son- the Vaatsalya bhaava. Bhaava establishes a true relationship between the devotee and the master. There are five kinds of Bhaava in Bhakti. They are Shaanta Bhaava (tranquility), Daasa Bhaava (master and a servant relationship), Sakha Bhaava (friendship or comradeship), Vaatsalya Bhaava (affection, like between mother and child) and Maadhura Bhaava (bridal mysticism — sweetness, as between lover and beloved).

Content: Vaatsalya Bhaava is the only relationship based on 'giving' and is related to sahasrara chakra. He further explained how this intimate, beautiful relationship can be used as a tool for transformation towards enlightenment.

Content: I didn't realize how time flew. I was just listening with rapt attention, while each question of mine, one by one sublimated into thin air. After what seemed like an eternity, like the tremble of a slender blade of grass, my mind stirred from the stone like stillness and I realized that I hadn't written down a single word of all that Swamiji had spoken.

Content: From that distant space I found my voice and said sheepishly, Swamiji, I forgot to turn the voice recorder on. He smiled, eyes sparkling and said but that's normal no ma, whenever the camera or the voice recorder is not there I end up giving a blasting discourse. Swamiji was now referring to all those occasions when he gave brilliant impromptu discourses, in the most unlikely situations and we (people accompanying him) were not prepared and equipped to record it. Swamiji this would have been such a beautiful discourse had I recorded it, we could have called it 'from mum to mom I beamed.

Content: I had supplied many such silly 'titles' in the past... this was one more! Like always Swamiji never

Content: commented at first, and after a few seconds he suggested maybe it can be called 'When God is your son'.

Content: I was speechless. The beauty of the title was overwhelming. My heart was bursting with a sudden surge of

Content: love and joy. But this is what happens every time I see him... a love I can't contain, a feeling that I might

Content: just explode with joy. And then there was a sudden build up of excitement in the air... I jumped up and

Content: moved a step closer to Swamiji's bed. Breathless and by now infused with a new energy I narrated to

Content: Swamiji a few beautiful experiences of mine since he called me 'mom'. It was a spontaneous moment

Content: when I asked him, Swamiji maybe all your moms can write their reminiscences? Yes, contact all moms he

Content: said excitedly. While the birth of this book itself was overwhelming, I just couldn't help noticing the high

Content: excited energy that Swamiji was exuding.

Content: His whole being was celebrating his 'moms'. I thought the room was glowing with the energy that was

Content: radiating from Swamiji. All this made me realize how a simple word like 'mom', which we take for

Content: granted since childhood, had such a lot of depth in character and meaning, enough to start a irreversible

Content: process and an alchemy at the depths of the mind, body and spirit.

Content: Swamiji said 'since you don't know all the moms, I will dictate their names'. And He dictated to me the

Content: list of all his moms in India, USA and Australia. He started -

Content:

1. Ma Nithya Sadananda,

Content: 2. Ma Nithya Lokanayakananda ,

Content: 3. Ma Nithya Sai Prassana,

Content: 4. Ma Nithyananda Priyamayi,

Content: 5. Ma Nithya Sachitananda,

Content: 6. Ma Ananda Roop Mayi

Content: 7. Ma Nithya Roop, (Now Ma Nithya Dayananda mayi),

Content: 8. Ma Ananda Snehamayi ,

Content: 9. Ma Ananda Turiya,

Content: 10. Ma Nithya Divojananda

Content: 11. Ma Ananda Vivekananda Bharti,

Content: 12. Ma Nithyananda Premeshwari Mayi,

Content: 13. Ma Ananda Maatrusri ( Now Ma Nithya Medhananda Mayi)

Content: 14. Ma Ananda Ganeshwari Mayi

Content: 15. Ma Nithya Swabav Mayi

Content: By now my mind was slowly trying to think and plan ahead as well. I was trying to frame sentences on the opening lines of the email I would send out to all moms. I heard Swamiji’s voice dictate Swamiji gave us all a wonderful chance to flower into this ultimate motherhood by calling us Mom. And the words he expressed, which I was quick enough to write down this time, were gushing out of him. He started here Swamiji uses the deepest possible relationship on planet earth, the mother-child relationship as a wonderful tool to bring an inner transformation in women. The moment he says ‘mom’, something churns and overflows in the heart region. Eyes turn moist, lips turn up into a gentle smile, the breath turns a bit rapid, and the cheeks are all flushed and the arms stretch out to hug the most beautiful son that a mother can ask for. But this is exactly what happens to me ….Or probably to any of Swamiji’s moms. Swamiji

Content: was verbalizing the intensity of this relationship beautifully and at the same time explaining the impact of the technique itself. Once again I was stunned into silence.

Content: By now I was staring at Swamiji with renewed amazement. There was too much happening all at once. And this was the beginning of When God Is My Son - A collection of reminiscences from 15 women disciples, whom Swamiji calls mom.

Content: Email to moms - Subject : When God is My Son....calling all Swamiji's Moms.

Content: Dearest fellow Moms,

Content: With Swamiji's blessing and encouragement, the Moms Club is being given a golden opportunity to embark upon a beautiful journey down memory lane.

Content: Swamiji gave us all a wonderful chance to flower into this ultimate motherhood by calling us Mom (even as I type my ears resonate with the familiar and special intonation He uses when He says the word 'Mom').

Content: "When God is my son", will be a book designed to overflow with loving memories from Swamiji's moms from around the world. These recollections, past and new, will be flowers offered from the depths of our hearts at his beautiful feet. Details of a small incident, a warm hug, a tear of joy, the glow of pride, a transformational event, anything that we want to share with the world about this beautiful attitude of Vaatsalya- Yashoda's loving attitude towards Krishna, will adorn the pages of 'When God is my son". A heart warming, revelation and inspirational book for people in general and women in particular will go on to depict how amongst all the Bhaavas, Vaatsalya Bhaava can take one beyond God and Guru. .

Content: So let's all put pen to paper, and write about our sweet, loving, naughty Son and flood the world with this amazing dimension of love. "When God is my son" will not just be a book of reminiscences, but a bouquet of soul stirring fragrances of love in its deepest and purest form.

Content: Please feel free to email or call me if you want to discuss this in more detail. I eagerly look forward to working with all of you on this special project.

Content: Good luck ....and enjoy your trip down memory lane!!

Content: Let's go Moms!!!

Content: In Nithyananda

Content: Ma Ananda Maatrusri *- Swamiji's Mom From Seattle

Content:

• Now Ma Nithya Medhananda Mayi

Content: Ma Mithya Lokanyagakananda

Content: Ma Nithya Lokanayakananda

Content: Ma Nithya Lokanayakananda is sweet, innocent and graceful lady. She is Swamiji's mother who gave birth to this Divine Soul. In this conversation she gave some intimate details of her relationship with Swamiji as he grew from a Son to Swami.

Content: Q: Ma, if my colleague speaks in Telugu can you understand and reply?

Content: A: Yes, no problem.

Content: Q: So you are okay with both Tamil and Telugu.

Content: A: Yes, I understand Tamil and Telugu.

Content: Q: Ma when you were pregnant and carrying Swami did you feel anything different? You have three sons, one younger and one older to Swami was there anything different or did you feel different with the second son?

Content: A: Absolutely no difference. It was normal delivery. All my children were normal delivery and after the completion of 9 months.

Content: Q: During the delivery how was it? Was the labor extended or relaxed?

Content: A: It was relaxed. The only difference was that the second baby (Swamiji) was bigger than the other two. He weighed 10 pounds at birth. Immediately after the birth the nurse came and asked me, what ma, have you been having only horlicks( health drink ) during pregnancy? They didn't even mention if I had delivered a baby boy or a girl. Normally one would give that news first. But

Content: all she asked me was if I drank a lot of horlicks during the pregnancy. I replied that I just took one bottle of horlicks and had only normal food.

Content: Q: How would you describe the little baby?

Content: A: He was fair and nice

Content: Q: During the pregnancy did you have any morning sickness? Were you able to lead a normal life?

Content: A: Yes, I was very normal. No sickness. I ate well and did the routine house work without any problem.

Content: Q: Who were all there when you delivered?

Content: A: Only the nurses and the ayah (assistant). I delivered at the Tiruvannamalai Government hospital.

Content: Q: Were there any doctors around?

Content: A: There the doctors would attend only to complicated cases.

Content: Q: How was the child's growth? Was he normal and active?

Content: A: He was like any other child, active and normal, but as he was growing up he started getting interested in the Bhakthi Marg.

Content: Q When did you notice the Bhakthi streak in him? Was it around two or three years of age?

Content: A: I am not able to remember the age clearly. But one thing I can tell you is that everyday we had Ganesh pooja at home. It used to go on for a long time, nearly till 2a.m. Just like the others in the family even I

Content: used to leave my baby at that place and go about doing my work. All the babies would sleep, crawl and turnover in that area and the people there looked after them. Swami also grew up that way.

Content: I am not able to pinpoint and give the correct time but from a very early age he got interested with the idols.

Content: Q: Was pooja performed everyday in your house?

Content: A: Yes. Ganapathi pooja was done everyday.

Content: Q: Did you go to the temple everyday?

Content: A: No, we used to go to the temple only during the month of Marghazi. We also visited the temple every Friday or for some function or on any auspicious days. Otherwise it was only whenever we felt like. There was no condition or regulation that we should go everyday.

Content: Q: Did you take Swami with you whenever you went to the temple?

Content: A: Yes, all the kids came along.

Content: Q: Who is your family deity?

Content: A: We didn't have anything like a family deity. We worshipped Ganesha, Subramania, Saraswathi and Lakshmi. But we had a statue of Ganesha, Nandi and Lingam.

Content: Q: What is the age difference between Swami and His younger brothers?

Content: A: 2 years.

Content: Q: How was Swami with his brothers, Did he play with them a lot? Did he fight with them?

Content: A: They all played together. But I don’t remember them fighting with one another.

Content: They never fought over things.

Content: Q: You have three sons. How was Swami’s nature? Was he serious? Was he cheerful or was he naughty?

Content: A: He was always cheerful and was very, very fond of me. Nobody could say anything bad about me. He wanted only me to serve him food. Otherwise He would not eat. Sometimes when I was tired after doing the house hold chores, I would ask him to wait for sometime. I would go and stretch myself for sometime. Immediately, He would come and hug me and stretch himself next to me. Till I got up and served he would not eat. He would never serve himself and eat. I had to serve him. He had so much love for me.

Content: Q: Did he mingle and mix well with his cousins and brother:

Content: A: Yes, very much.

Content: Q: Yours is a big family. Did he come with you to your relative’s house during some functions? Was He attached to your side of the family?

Content: A: He used to come with us to everyone’s house. As far as my parent’s house is concerned, He was very attached to all of them. He was very free with them and visited them every day. After all, their house was so close to my in-laws place.

Content: Q: How was he in studies?

Content: A: He was not a first ranker but he used to come within the 5th or 6th rank. We (parents) too were not bothered about him getting the first rank. We were happy that he was doing well. We never put pressure on him to score better marks.

Content: Q: Did his teacher call you anytime to discuss about His studies or his behavior?

Content: A: No.

Content: Q: Who gave him the name Rajashekhar?

Content: A: My husband was very fond of my father for whom he had great respect. His name was Raja Mudaliar. And I was very fond of the name, Shekhar. So when we were both discussing about the name he said, Okay you like Shekhar and I like Raja, so we shall name him Rajashekhar. His name was not based on any astrologer’s recommendation or the star.

Content: Q: Was Swami interested in pooja and rituals from a young age?

Content: A: He used to pray to Ganesha’s idols, chant mantras, bathe them, dress them and burn camphor. But when he was about 5 to 6 years Raghupathi Yogi came into his life. He started meeting him quite often.

Content: Q: Did you know who Raghupathi Yogi was?

Content: A: I knew he used to teach yogasanas in the temple. He invited the kids to the temple to learn yoga. My kids also started going to him. Some people got attached to him while the others went just to feel, oh I have been to his classes too. Senthil and Gopi also went but Swami got attached to him.

Content: Q: Did Raghupathi yogi come home?

Content: A: Many times. I have given many photos to Ma Nithya Ramya at the ashram. In fact my husband went along with him to Delhi on a tour arranged by Rotary. So many photos are there. We lived on the same street. His house was on the elevated part of the street and ours was at the lower level. He used to pass our house every time he went out. Either he used to come in or call the kids outside to talk to them.

Content: Q: How was he to look at? Did he look different? How was he?

Content: A: He was a short man; he had retired from State Bank as a cashier. He was from Burma. He was friendly and used to talk to everyone.

Content: Q: Did you speak to him?

Content: A: In our house, we were not that free with the men. Of course we invited him in, made him take a seat and offered coffee. Beyond that we never interacted with them. Because of this, I really can't speak much about him.

Content: Q: Has he spoken anything about Swami to you?

Content: A: No, he didn't speak anything to me. I just used to go about doing my work. In fact I never gave a thought to anything else and did not know what spirituality was all about.

Content: Q: When Swami went to see Raghupathi Yogi, when did he come back home?

Content: A: He used to comeback by 7.30 or 8 am and then he only had time for a bath, eat food and go to school.

Content: Q: When he came back from school did he go out and play or did he do something else at home or did he go to the temple?

Content: A: He did not go out and play with the other boys. He went to the temple or stayed at home doing something. Whenever I went out he came along with me. But once he grew up he was on his own. He visited my parents or Sampaths's place quite frequently. He also went to Raghupathi yogi's place. He never went to anyone else's house.

Content: Q: Who was his best friend?

Content: A: Sampath. I am sure you will remember, Sampath , who came to the ashram. He decorated Anandeshwara all night long. Swami was only in the company of Sampath. They formed a group.

Content: Q: There are lots of sadhus in Tiruvannamalai. As a youngster did Swami mingle with them or go with them anywhere?

Content: A: Whenever he went to the temple he might have met them and spent time with them or discussed with them. But I have no idea what transpired between them during such times. Neither did he speak about them nor did I have the time to keep track. I was so busy doing my household chores. I had plenty to do at home.

Content: Q: How did you feel when you saw him playing with idols or when he went out with Raghupathi yogi?

Content: A: Since I was so involved with household work, I had no time to find out where he was going or what he was doing.

Content: Q: When Swami was spending so much time decorating the idols and being around Raghupathi yogi, what were your thoughts?

Content: A: I only knew that the boy was not going to the wrong places or doing wrong things. I knew, he was going to the Ganesha temple or other temples to decorate, and sometimes to do the chandana kapput. Many times he stayed in the temple itself and requested me to send food for him through someone or he would send someone to pick up the food. Other than doing these things he never went to movies or picked up fights with other boys. So there was no need for me to worry about anything. He was only doing good things. Moreover whenever he was doing the chandanakappu, he would invite me to the temple. Seeing it I always felt very happy.

Content: Q: So he used to do it in the temples?

Content: A: Of course, he used to do it in the Ganesha temple.

Content: Q At what age did he start doing this?

Content: A: From the 10th year, but not in the big temple. Boys were not allowed to do it there. So he used to do it in many of the small temples. There is a small Ganesha idol at one corner of the big temple and he has done chandanakappu for it also. There is also a photograph showing him doing it. These temples have become very famous now. They have decorated it there many times. He always informed when they went to decorate the deity at any temple. During Ganesh Chathurthi they decorated in two or three Ganesh temples. They went as a group to all these temples.

Content: Q: Whenever he performed these ceremonies did he comeback and share the details with you?

Content: A: Oh yes he would! He told us what the people commented about the decorations. And then he would enquire if we were there to see it and ask for our opinion. Gleefully he talked about it and we also listened to him happily.

Content: It is only when parents hear wrong things about their children that they feel bad. But when we hear only good things, naturally we feel happy. Then there is absolutely no reason to stop them from what they were doing.

Content: Q: Once Swami cut his thigh. Do you remember the incident?

Content: A: No. I have forgotten.

Content: Q: Actually I met the doctor who had attended on him at that time. He remembered suturing the wound.

Content: A: The doctor stayed just opposite our house. Whenever we had any problem we rushed to him. But I don't remember this incident.

Content: Q: Did Swami talk to you about his spiritual experiences when he was a youngster?

Content: A: No, he never spoke to me about it.

Content: Q: When Kuppamma was looking after Swami, where you aware of it?

Content: A: Yes. I knew her well. My mother-in-law knew her well. She came home quite often.

Content: Q: Did she tell you anything about Swamiji?

Content: A: She didn't mention anything and I too never asked her. After all she was my mother-in-laws friend. My relationship was restricted to, how are you or, would you like to have some coffee.

Content: Q: Have you noticed him being very quiet or behaving differently on some days?

Content: A: As a youngster he spent a lot of time outside the house so I don't know. But once he was back at home he was very cheerful, talking and joking with us. When he joined college, he came home every fifteen days. Normally he arrived in the evening. I would then ask him to rest a while since he must be tired from the journey. But he would not agree. He would say he had to meet lots of people the next day and would not have time to talk to us. The whole evening and night, he would want to chat with us. He talked to us about his college life. We would all be talking till 3 or 4 am. Not only did he narrate all that happened in college but he would want to know in detail all that happened at home in his absence. So in this way he was close to us.

Content: Q: Was Swami in a hostel during his college days?

Content: A: Yes, he was in a hostel in Gudiyatham since there was no college in Tiruvannamalai then.

Content: Q: Did you visit him?

Content: A: I visited him Many times.

Content: Once while getting up he hit himself against the window and hurt himself badly. The wound started bleeding and soon he developed a fever. He informed us about this through a letter. Though we had a phone at home, we didn't use it that much. As soon as we received the letter I went to Gudiyatham. Since I was not used to traveling alone, a friend who incidentally had some work there, accompanied me. Together we met Swamiji, spent about two hours with him and then returned home.

Content: Just before he started the second year at college, all parents were requested to come and sign some paper for the hostel accommodation. Just at that time Swami had completed 41 days of going around the Arunachala Hills - the Girivallam( circum ambulation of the mountain). The mandala (stipulated) for this is forty eight days. Since his college was reopening he had to cut short the Girivillam and get back to the college.

Content: Since my husband was away on some work Swami and I went to the college in Gudiyatham to complete the formalities. When we reached there, a meeting for the parents was arranged where we were informed that the college was reopening only after another week (seven days). After completing the paper-work for the hostel accommodation Swami and I returned to our town the same day. The same evening Swami resumed the girivallam. He had seven more rounds to be done in seven days, to complete the mandala. And that was exactly the number of days by which the opening of the college was postponed by. Swami thus completed the Girivallam.

Content: Q: Why do people do it for forty eight days? Do you get some special benefit by doing so?

Content: A: Forty Eight days is a mandala. Some people do it for twenty four days (half mandala).

Content: Q: What exactly do they do?

Content: A: They do the Girivallam (circumambulation of the mountain) everyday for forty eight days. They go round the Arunachala Hill.

Content: Q: When he was young has he ever spoken to you about what he wanted to be? Generally youngsters talk about becoming an engineer, a doctor, a lawyer and so forth. Has he done so?

Content: A: No, I never spoke to him about it. Senthil joined textiles. And just like my younger brother Swami pursued mechanical engineering. Beyond that there was no discussion. Neither did he speak about his ambition nor did I have one for him.

Content: Q: So he has never spoken about his future or discussed about his career?

Content: A: Ma Nithya Sarananda (who was also present at the time of this interview)- Amma they were living in a small town. Not much thought was given for all this.

Content: Swami's mother: My brother did tell me one thing, Akka (elder sister), a regular engineering course is very expensive so let him do the diploma in engineering. Moreover this he can finish in three years (compared to the four years graduate program).

Content: His suggestion was accepted and Swami joined the diploma course. We never planned for him to be an engineer or a doctor. These courses were very expensive and we couldn't afford it at that time. We just wanted him to get educated.

Content: Q: How did you feel when Swami decided to leave the house? How did you know that he was leaving and what was the situation like?

Content: A: I was very upset and started crying when he broke the news about his plan to leave home and join a mutt ( monastery). He told me that parents had to come and sign a consent form. But he also started consoling me immediately.

Content: By now Swami had taken up a job in Chennai and had been working there for two months. It was a Sunday when Swami told me about his wish to join the mutt. The next day Senthil was leaving for Kanpur from Chennai since he got a job there. I had earlier suggested to him, since your parents cannot be there to send him off, at least you be there. Now I asked him you have also come here, now who will be there for him?

Content: Swami assured me that he would be there for his brother and there was no need for me to cry on that account.

Content: After assuring me he left for Chennai immediately and went straight to Senthil's place. Senthil was staying in Tambaram. Senthil in turn advised Swami to get back to work as he felt there was no need for him to stay back just to give him a send-off. He said a couple of good friends would take care of that. So Swami went back to work on Monday morning.

Content: After Swami left, I went to my mother's house and told her about Swami's decision to join the Mutt. At this point I could not control myself and started weeping. My mother too was very upset at this news. In fact she suggested, let him not work and let's go and bring him back home. My father was not at home.

Content: He was expected back home only around 2.30pm-3.00pm. When he heard the news, he asked me to go home, pack up my clothes and meet him near the Ganesha temple. He decided to take me along with him to Chennai to meet Swami. I went back home and told my husband about the plan and left for Chennai with my father around 5.30pm. We had no idea where Swami was staying nor did we have his address. So we went straight to Senthil's place. We found out from Senthil that Shekhar had earlier come to his house but was sent back. I explained to Senthil about Swami's wish to join the mutt and how I cried when I heard it. I also told to him that it was I who had requested Swami to go to Chennai to be there for his send off. On hearing this Senthil spontaneously said, hmm the astrologer has already predicted that he would be a sanyasi. Be happy, at least, he is leaving before he is married. Swami had not discussed any of this with Senthil.

Content: That evening Senthil left for Kanpur but asked us to spend the night at his place. Early next morning my father and I left for my brother's place. Somehow we managed to locate his place and narrated the whole episode to him. He wanted to meet Swamiji. So we went to meet Swamiji in MMD Colony and reached his place at 7.30am. Swami had already left for office by then. His office was only four streets away from his home and my brother knew the address. So we decided to meet him there. My brother instructed me and my father to stay downstairs while he went up to fetch Swami. He had a big smile on his face as he came down with Swami. Then we all went to the house where Swami was staying.

Content: Only the previous week Swami had told my father, “Thatha (grandfather) all my colleagues wear gold chain, ring and nice watches. They(office) have promised to make me the section head in 3 months time. Once that happens my salary will be increased and I will buy all these things for myself. With the

Content: increment I would also like to buy a plot of land in Tiruvannamalai. When a sixteen or seventeen year old boy talks about buying jewellery and land it was natural for us to feel proud and happy about him.

Content: Now, my father reminded him just last week you were talking about buying a plot and jewellery. We were all so happy. Within a week you have changed your mind. Now you want to go to an ashram. Your mother is so upset. I cannot see my daughter in tears. That is why in spite of my old age, I have travelled the whole night to meet you.

Content: Swami replied, Grandfather I am helpless. There is some shakthi (power) which is pulling me so strongly and I am not able to stop it.

Content: My father then offered to start a business for him in the mandi, incase he was not happy with his present job. He was ready to help his grandson in anyway possible. He did not want him to leave home. But Swami was very clear about his future. He said, I have no problem with my office. They are very happy with me. Within a week of joining them I have been promised a good future in the company. But that is not the problem. Please understand that there is some shakthi (power) which is pulling me so strongly.

Content: My father then decided to return home. But Swami insisted the he would come back with us. My father advised him to continue with his job in Chennai. After all he had come from Tiruvannamalai just a week back. But Swami was adamant about his decision. He told us he would reach Tiruvannamalai before us. I was helpless and I could not support him since I had never gone against my father's decision and I never voiced my opinion either.

Content: My father, before going to Tiruvannamalai, wanted to go to Kanchipuram enroute where my grandmother lived. We left Madras around 10 or 11am and reached Kanchipuram by mid- afternoon. Grandmother and the others at home were happy to see us. They were happily chatting with each other. But I could not participate as I was mentally tired. I excused myself saying I was very tired due to excessive travelling and very little sleep.

Content: When we returned to Truvannamalai and reached home it was Swami who opened the door for us.

Content: Usha, the lady who stayed opposite to my in-laws home did not have a phone at home and would come to our house sometimes to receive her call. When I was away in Chennai, she had come home to receive a call. My mother-in-law informed her that I was in Chennai to meet Swami and that I was upset. When Usha came to know that we were back in Tiruvannamalai she came to meet Swami the next day. She was an elderly and well educated lady. She tried her best to convince Swami to change his mind. She put forth a lot of questions. But Swami answered all of them with great clarity.

Content: On Wednesday when we were all talking amongst ourselves suddenly Swamji told me, Amma, don't cry, I will go back to work on Thursday morning. And he went back to Chennai. Thursday, Friday and Saturday he worked. On Sunday he joined the mutt. I did not know about it. My friend Usha had earlier advised me akka (sister) don't worry about the phone bill, please keep ringing up your son everyday and speak to him. But I never followed her advice.

Content: The following Friday evening, as I was about to light the lamp, I felt my stomach churning. It was very intense. I had not felt anything like this before. Suddenly I had the sudden urge to call him. It was actually four days since he had joined the mutt.

Content: I called his office and asked for Shekar. The person who answered the phone asked me if I was asking for the person who wore a rudraksh mala and had ash smeared on his forehead. When I confirmed, he told me that Shekar had not been coming to the office for the last one week. He further informed me he had also heard that Shekhar was not keeping well. Apprently one of his friends had come by and collected his salary. He enquired if Shekar had come home. That was the last straw.

Content: My stomach started churning even more. I rushed to my mother's place with tears streaming down my cheeks. My mother was about to light the prayer lamp. The moment I saw her I broke down into uncontrollable sobs. When I explained the situation to her, she too started crying uncontrollably. My father, who walked in at that time, saw the two of us crying. On listening to all that had happened, he asked me to calm down and reconcile to the facts. A man, who just a week ago had gone to Chennai to convince his grandson to change his decision, had now completely reconciled to the situation. He wanted me to accept my son's decision. My husband was not at home, so I asked my third son Gopi to look after the shop in his absence.

Content: Seeking help and advice I next went to my brother's house. He was not at home and wife Shanthi told that he was expected back only that night. I informed her about Swami's action and asked her to pass on the message to my brother as soon as he got back. Still crying I next went to my sister's house whose house was also close by. Finally I went to my friend Usha, who lived right across my house. By then I was choked with emotion and could not speak. She saw my condition and made me drink a tall glass of water. I relented that I had not paid heed to her advice. I should have called my son more regularly.

Content: Q: How did his father react?

Content: A: He was very relaxed. He did not react at all when he was informed about our son's disappearance. He was very calm. While I was continuously sobbing, he was relaxing on the bed. I pestered him to come with me to Chennai, still he seemed to be in no hurry. Meanwhile I sat waiting in the balcony from where I could see the Arunachala hill and kept staring at the hill. Finally I got up, had a bath and forced my husband also to get ready. We left for Chennai and by 5.30 a.m. we were at my brother's house there. The three of us then went to the house where Swami used to stay. As we were climbing the staircase, the landlady saw us and invited us in. She confirmed to us that Swami had left a week ago and had joined the Ramakrishna Mutt. She apologized for not informing me earlier as she was found it very difficult to convey this news. She added that Swami left after paying the rent.

Content: Accompanied by my brother we went to the mutt and met the manager. Swami was summoned to the room. The moment Swami came into the room, he and my husband started laughing simultaneously, and I once again continued with my non-stop sobbing, while my brother could not utter a word. It looked as if his throat was blocked.

Content: The manager took us around and invited us to have lunch there. My husband asked Swami if he required any money or anything else. We knew that he did not have any money on him as he used to hand over all his salary to us. Swami requested his father to buy him a rudraksh mala. After we got him the mala, we took leave.

Content: Back home in Tiruvannamalai, I immersed myself with routine work. The moment the chores were over, I would lock myself in the room and sit in one corner silently. I never felt like talking with anyone at home.

Content: Q: Were you aware when Swami left the monastery in Chennai?

Content: A: We were aware that after serving for four years, they were sent to the monastery in Calcutta. Of course they had to perform well during this time.

Content: Q: Were you in touch with Swami? Did he write you letters?

Content: A: No, we were not in touch with him.

Content: Q: So when did you meet Swami again?

Content: A: Only after his enlightenment. He got enlightened on Jan 1st 2000.

Content: Q: How was Swami when he came back? What was the difference between when he left and came back?

Content: A: I am not able to say, ma. I did not have much knowledge or experience in these matters. I only knew that he was coming back.

Content: Q: How was it when he came back?

Content: A: He stayed at my sister's house. He initially wanted to stay in Annamalai Swami's house.

Content: From Chennai he went straight to my parent's house where he had tiffin (snack) that evening. However the first Biksha (alms) was at my sister's house, the next day. Only when rice is accepted it is considered as

Content: Biksha. We had no clue about all these things. Swami asked us to get him a mala and feed him only rice, dhal and ghee on a banana leaf and if we felt like we could offer a small donation as dakshina ( offerings). So, my sister gave the first biksha to Swami.

Content: Q: Did you go and meet him?

Content: A: I did meet him a couple of times. But the separation had happened between us. After Ten days Swami left for Bangalore.

Content: Q: Did any of your relatives notice any change in him, physically or in his body language?

Content: A: No not much.

Content: Q: You must have been aware of the astrologer’s prediction when Swami was born:

Content: A: No, I was not told. All my neighbors and friends used to call him Swamipaiyyan (boy sage) because of his behavior. I never took it seriously. I thought they were just joking. Neither did I feel proud about what he was doing (playing and decorating the deities) not did I discourage him from doing it As long as the boys were not troubling, I was quite happy.

Content: Q: The others knew about the astrologer’s prediction. How did they react when it happened: did they accept it?

Content: A: I knew about this prediction only when Senthil mentioned, Amma, the astrologer had already predicted about his Sanyas. Be happy that at least he is not married.

Content: Q: How did Senthil and Gopi feel when their brother came back as a Swami? Surely they must have told you something?

Content: A: Actually, only after seven and a half years the whole family met at Pallipalayam ashram.

Content: The last time was when Senthil left for Kanpur. Senthil might have met Swami independently when he was in Chennai. Gopi also might have met him on one of his visits. But the family met and sat together after seven and half years.

Content: Q: So many people talk about Swami's experiences. How do you feel, when you hear such things?

Content: A: When people talk about his experiences I just listen. It was my friend who told me that Swami had some special powers. She was the first person to tell me so.

Content: Q: When did she tell you? Was it during Swami's stay in Pallipalayam ashram?

Content: A: It was even before Pallipalayam. Swami at that time was in Tiruchengode. My friend had consumed poison due to some family problem and she was rushed to the hospital. Her sister and brother-in-law went to Tiruchengode to bring Swami to heal her. When Swami was informed about the incident, he readily agreed to come to the hospital.

Content: Just as there were about to leave a visitor came by to see Swamiji. Swami assured my friends relatives that nothing would happen to my friend and asked them to return home. He promised to pay them a visit the next day. True to his words, he came to heal my friend the next day. He was accompanied by another person. At home we got a call from him to inform us that he would be in Salem and wanted me to come

Content: there. I went to Salem along with my friend Susheela but we missed meeting him as he had left just a few

Content: minutes before our arrival. We were informed that Swami held my friends hand, circulated the energy and

Content: removed the poison completely. My friends felt the energy going in and circulating. He held her till the

Content: entire poison was removed from her system. My friend who could barely get up from the bed until then

Content: got up and went up to the front door to see him off.

Content: Q: When Swami came to Tiruvannamalai recently to address a public meeting, lot of your relatives were

Content: there. All of us saw Swami's cousins on that day. How did they feel?

Content: A: I felt it was just a regular program. I never got around to discussing much with them.

Content: Q: So far as you are concerned you are happy just seeing him.

Content: A: Yes. I am living a peaceful life. Today, because of him I am able to enjoy the peace.

Content: Q: Now in every street there is traffic jam, flags are flying everywhere. Did you ever dream that your son

Content: Rajashekhar would be what he is today?

Content: A: No, never. I didn't ever dream about this.

Content: Q: There are so many people coming to see Swami. How do you feel?

Content: A: Just like how people come home when there is an occasion, I feel the same way when I see many

Content: people attending Swamiji's programs too, as though they are coming home to attend an event. I have a

Content: ordinary background. I do not know much about spirituality. Maybe if I also had a spiritual background I might have felt differently after seeing all that is happening.

Content: Q Can you please tell us a little about when your husband Sri Nithya Arunachalananda passed away.

Content: A: When my husband passed away in November 2005, I did not break down at all. Ordinarily I would have cried a lot on seeing the body. I remember some earlier incidents in my life where I became inconsolable. I had hardly lived away from him apart from a few short visits to the ashram. Despite this close bonding I withstood his loss very gracefully.

Content: But it was during this incident that I felt the presence of a Shakthi (power). Without its presence I could not have behaved in such a balanced and composed way. It was this Shakthi that gave me the mental strength. Also there was a deep and beautiful understanding about death that I had developed after attending the Nithyananda Spurana Program. I felt a tremendous peace and equanimity from within, due to Swamiji's sheer presence.

Content: Q: Now Swami has got so many moms. How do you feel about it? What do you feel about sharing him with others?

Content: A: I am happy that there are so many others also who care for him so dearly. I have no idea how he should be taken care of at this stage. I do not know much about all these things. The other moms are well versed in these aspects. They know how to take care of him. All I know is He needs special care. I have never felt that only I should take care of him. Moreover that attachment is not there anymore. I don't feel that he belongs to only me. I am happy to have got a chance to be in this league of His 'moms club'.

Content: Q: So, amma you feel that Swami is everybody's son and that he is not a son only to you?

Content: A: I never feel like talking to him alone. But sometimes he calls me and talks to me. Only then I talk to him. It is the same with Gopi (Swamiji's brother). I talk to everybody in the ashram in general. I feel very normal and very relaxed.

Content: (Smiling she says) Swami says, some come here for enlightenment and the others for entertainment. I think I belong to the second group i.e., the entertainment group.

Content: I don't know much about enlightenment, so I suppose I am here for entertainment (she laughs heartily)

Content: Q Jamuna Amma was Swamiji's next mom, when did you meet her?

Content: A: I once went to attend a wedding in Pallipalayam along with my mother and friend and we were carrying a idol of Ganesha which Swamiji told us to bring with us. Since we were not sure of the way from the bus stop to the ashram we were asked to wait at the bus stop. That's when Ayya and Amma came to the bus stop to pick us up. That was the first time I met them.

Content: Q: How was Amma then?

Content: A: (they laugh together) She was lean.

Content: Q: Did you talk to her?

Content: A: Of course. Since Swami was also going to the wedding, he decided that all of us could go together. He asked us to stay back in the ashram that night.

Content: Ma Nitya Sadananda

Content: Ma Nithya Sadananda

Content: The first to join the moms-club, Ma Nithya Sadananda took extreme care of Swamiji during the early days, soon after his enlightenment. In this conversation she recollects moments of tender love and Camaraderie that she shared with Swamiji. She experienced a dimension of the master, unique and rare.

Content: Q: What was your first impression of Swami? What do you remember?

Content: A: Since I had been meditating regularly, I felt that he was also a meditator. Ayya now says that he had told me at that time that Swami was an enlightened person. Somehow, I did not grasp the information.

Content: Q: How did he look?

Content: A: Ordinary and normal, very normal. We spent two days with him. While he was with us I was continuously talking to him. I also never left him and was just hanging around him. He was staying in my neighbor's house. After he left there was a vacuum. I had a great time for two days, laughing, joking and talking with him. I presumed it was because of the great joy I had experienced in those two days. I never thought I was going to meet him again.

Content: Swami had invited us to the Pallipalayam ashram inauguration. He was performing a yagna. We could not make it on that day. But we did go there after some time. He had personally invited us and we felt that we should honour it. We did it out of respect. He asked us to stay back that night. There was this beautiful river flowing near the ashram. I was very happy gazing at it. Swami had a cot, a pillow and a mattress. He also possessed a cloth that looked like the tiger's

Content: 40

Content: skin. Swami gave us all these things one by one. I was astonished. Not for a moment did he think about himself. He wanted us to be comfortable. By nature I am also very giving. But not like this. I would always keep what is essential for me and distribute the rest. I was really touched by Swami's act.

Content: He had nothing to sleep on. He gave everything to us without any hesitation. His selflessness really hit me. It left a deep impression on me. We left after 2 days.

Content: Soon Swami asked us whether we can join him on a tour. We readily agreed. We decided to go up north - Swami, Ayya and me.

Content: If I look back at those days it is very clear that Swami must have been responsible for creating that mental set up in me. I was nearly forty and yet I never felt so. Just like a kid of 7 or 8 we fought with each other. I am surprised at my behaviour when I recall those days. Right from a very young age I have never been comfortable with men. I hardly spoke to them; my father was the only person with whom I spoke to. But even with him I maintained an arms length. I never allowed him or my brothers to touch me. I attributed my behavior pattern to my inner-intelligence. When I attended weddings ceremonies, I would go with my head down and never made any eye contact with men. Even with Ayya's close friends and relatives I was just and maintained a distance. I hardly spoke to them. When I look back I am amazed to see that my relationship with Swamiji was in total contrast to my nature. I am very sure that it must have been Swami who had changed my mental set up to that of a young kid.

Content: We constantly fought like young kids while traveling in the train. We used to travel for two to three days at a stretch. We continuously fought for the window seat. When one of us went to the toilet, the other would occupy that seat. In fact, we used to hit each other while fighting.

Content: It never occurred to me that he was an enlightened person and that his body was different and delicate and had to be taken care of. Ayya used to look into those aspects and take care of him. All these things never entered my mind at that time. To me, it was only the sheer joy of playing with him. All we did was to play with each other all the time.

Content: I remember the day when Swami had to take the flight back home. It was time to leave for the airport and Swami wanted to buy something. Ayya was insisting that he should not go because it was getting late. But Swami decided to go to the shop to buy a prayer bell and incense stands. I was worried and anxious because I knew Ayya would get angry if there was a delay. I did not want him to scold Swami. Why was Swami behaving like a small kid? I requested Ayya not to scold him but quickly get him whatever he wanted. After Swami returned from the shop we rushed to the airport and fortunately Ayya complied to my request and did not scold Swami. But when we boarded the plane, Swami and I fought again for the window seat. Though I got it, he pushed me aside and sat there. That moment I regretted taking his side earlier on. I thought I should have allowed ayyah to scold him.

Content: After we all got back to Coimbatore, where ayyah and I lived at that time Swami wanted to go back to Tiruchengode. So we went to the bus stop to drop him. As he got into the bus, I felt very sad at the thought of separating from him. I quickly ran and got him the Shenbagam flowers. I love the fragrance of the flower. Swami accepted it and gave me a smile. I felt that the tour had come to an end it was time for us to part.

Content: Next day morning, a thought gripped my mind. I realized that I had to join Swami immediately and that I could not stay without him. I was very clear about it. I went and informed Ayya about my decision. Ayya

Content: advised me to call up and confirm if Swami was at the ashram. He promised to take me there next morning. But I had made up my mind to leave immediately. I packed up two sets of churidar- kurta in a small suitcase (I used to wear them those days) and was ready to leave. Not for a moment did I think how Ayya would take it, how I could leave my 2 young kids, my in-laws and my family. All these thoughts never entered my mind. I was not worried about my future too. Where I am going to stay? Will it be in a thatched roofed hut? Whether Swami could accommodate me? These questions never arose in my mind. Only one thing was clear -I wanted to be with him. That's all.

Content: Lokanayaki Amma ( also present at the time of this interview) : Swami at that time was staying in a small thatched hut. For amma to leave the luxury of her home and stay in such a place was a great decision. I used to visit them some times. There was a small partition. Swami used to sleep on the other side of it. When I went Ayya and Amma would give their place to me and sleep on the other side. The hut was near the graveyard.

Content: Jamuna Amma: Whenever a dead body came Swami would run out. He would ask us to get a few things like camphor and a match box. The soul would try to leave the body and in doing so felt a lot of pain. To release it without pain, swami went near it and performed an arti for it.

Content: Soon Ayya too joined us. It took some time for him to settle down. Together we enjoyed a lot while I continued to play with Swamiji in the usual way. It was Ayya who would look after our needs. He would make the bed for Swami, fan him while he was sleeping. As there was no fan, he would keep fanning him through out the night. It was he who looked after Swami completely. In fact Swami used to joke with me,

Content: what Amma you have brought Ayya along to do work for us. I used to say, I don't know all that Swami, I have done enough work in my life. Ayya never used to fetch even a glass of water for himself. I do not want to do anymore work.

Content: When we went on the tour, Ayya packed his bag and I would pack mine. But Swami never packed his bag. When he asked me to do it for him and I would flatly refuse. I told him, Ayyah is packing his bag; I am doing mine, so you should pack yours. And moreover what other work do you have? But he did not budge an inch. It was time to leave and getting late. Finally it was Ayya who packed Swamiji's bag. I dealt with him in the same manner in which I dealt with my other sons in such matters.

Content: Swami used to play with lots of toys. He would play with them but never put them back. He expected me to do the job. But I always refused. Again it was only Ayya who would clear up the place. Our fights continued. Whenever Swami scolded me for anything, I would threaten to walk away to a pile of stones that was a favorite haunt for gamblers and drunkards. Immediately Swami would start pleading with me, come back, I will not scold you in future. But I used to be adamant and refused to accept his apologies. Finally, he used to take Ayya's help for the reconciliation.

Content: I had seen a movie earlier where a boy often sang a particular song. It went like this, “I am going to war, and I am ready to go to war”. I remembered these lines very clearly and whenever Swami used say something to me, I would start singing these lines. Immediately Swami would stop and tell me, Amma I am not saying anything to you. Please continue with whatever you were doing.

Content: Q: Where you aware of his Shakthi right from the beginning? Of course when he healed Ayya you must have come to know about it.

Content: A: When I saw Swami for the first time I could feel his vibrations so strongly. I was sitting in the hall and I could feel all my nerves pulling. There was too much heat as well. I could not sit there. So I ran away from there. Before this incident, Swami took us to visit some one. Swami was sitting in one place and I was seated near him. I started feeling his vibrations and soon I could feel all my nerves pulling. Soon this sensation intensified. Swami enquired from Ayya whether this problem occurred to me often and if so, what action was taken usually. Whenever I had this problem, I was taken to the hospital for treatment. After hearing this Swami just put his thumb on my Ajna. I was very conscious and I could hear the conversation between the two. Nearly for an hour my problem continued and I could feel Swami's thumb on my Ajna. He continued keeping it for a long time. One the one hand, I could feel the unbearable pain and discomfort, it was as painful as fire, but at the same time I could see it was slowly leaving me. I was also very sure that it was good for me. Nearly after an hour, the whole thing cleared. It was only after this incident that our tour happened. I then understood Swami's powers, his Shakthi.

Content: Q: Amma you have been with Swami for so many years, how did you feel in his energy? We have been with him only for a few years but we can feel the changes in us.

Content: A: First, Swami taught Ayya-and me Mahamantra meditation. He asked us to practice it at home. We could not do it on a regular basis because at that point of time, both of us were not keeping good health. Swami told us that the only thought one should have is of a happy life. So we meditated together whenever

Content: possible. Whenever I did mahamantra, during the last ten minutes of silence, I was not there. Previously with the other meditation techniques, my mind was full of thoughts. In my ten years of meditative practice,

Content: I never experienced anything like this. This was totally new. Whenever Swami conducted meditations and I happened to be there I could not come back and open my eyes till Swami chanted, Om Shanthi, Om Shanthi. I was completely lost. Only his chanting dragged me back to this world.

Content: During Swami’s classes also I had similar experiences. Whenever he conducted classes, I used to lose myself. Only the sensation of Bliss remained with me. Being in the presence of his energy gave me this experience.

Content: Q: From then and now do you feel any difference?

Content: A: Earlier I could feel the energy whenever I went. I could also gauge how much of it was there. Today, it has all changed. I no longer feel the same way. After coming to Swami I have forgotten all about yoga and don’t practice it anymore. Today, my focus is only on personal transformation. What all I should do in my personal life to accelerate my spiritual progress. My growth is now based on the necessities which are essential for my life. I have realized that acceptance is a great virtue. Gradually I am growing.

Content: Previously, I was living with fantasies. That is why my happiness was short lived. But today, the whole scenario has changed. I can see the growth in me. I am moving forward step by step. With every step I am improving.

Content: Q: What is your spiritual name?

Content: A: Ma Nithya Sadananda, which means to be ‘in bliss all the time’.

Content: Q: What does it suggest? You should be in Ananda all the time or you are in it all the time?

Content: A: Swami keeps saying that it is the path, it is the end. Beyond that I do not know anything.

Content: Q: How do you feel inside from the time you get up in the morning till the time you go to sleep in the night?

Content: A: There are no engrams amma. I must relate one incident to you. It was during the Shivasutras when Swami was taking classes in the ashram. The whole place was charged with energy. During this time a small rift happened between Sri Nityeshwarananda and me. Our relationship had been a little strained prior to this incident. We were sitting together and having our meal. After serving myself I pushed the vessel towards Gopi. It was spontaneously done. It was not meant to insult him. But he took it amiss. He felt that I was insulting him and did not approve of my behaviour. He got up and left without finishing his meal. I tried stopping him to explain, but he was not ready to listen. I too got up and went to my room as I was really upset. He was just few years older than my sons. I didn't like the idea of him going to bed on an empty stomach. It troubled me immensely.

Content: The next day when I was asked to come for lunch, I refused. Gopi was having his meal at that time. I told achi about how I could not bear to see Gopi going to bed on an empty stomach. The first thought that came to my mind as I got up that morning was that Gopi had not eaten last night. Why did he not eat? What happened? But why was he angry, I had no clue.

Content: I wanted him to understand one thing – when he refused to eat, it hurt me so much. In the same way, my refusal to eat would also hurt him too I thought. Under normal circumstances, I would have been very

Content: agitated in such a situation which would make my body tremble. But that didn’t happen. On the contrary, someone was looking at me and I was smiling happily. I knew there was anger but it did not touch me.

Content: Suddenly I realized others presumed I was angry. But to my astonishment, I realized that I was ranting but there was no anger inside me. I then explained to achi that I was not angry .Just then Vishwa walked in. I explained to him what I was going through. Worries, fears, confusion, all these emotions which were a part of me had just vanished. I was a different person altogether.

Content: It was Shwetha’s birthday, Swami called up to wish her. I also spoke to him and explained about my new found understanding. He was very happy.

Content: When Swami announced that we could ask him for a boon. I said I wanted to be like Nithyeshwari (Divine energy) and imbibe her qualities. I felt every one of us should become like her. When I expressed this desire Swami said, Why Nithyeshwari, you will become me. I didn’t understand what he meant by that and moreover I thought I didn’t get what I had asked for. Swami understood my predicament. He explained to me that becoming one with him was the ultimate. Later when I looked back, I understood what a fool I had been. How compassionate he was. An enlightened Master was trying to explain about the ultimate gift he gave me. But I didn’t want to analyse it. Swami offered it and I accepted it.

Content: Q: How many years were you and Ayya with Swami, before the others ( moms) came in?

Content: A: Two years.

Content: Q Only you and Ayya were with Swami. He was not like us. How did you look after him? You once told me His body is like a flower".

Content: A: In those early days when Swami and I had friendly fights with each other I would even hit him at times. Whenever I hit him hard, he would cry out, Amma it hurts. I would retaliate by saying, it is meant to. Then he would shout ayya, ayya. Ayya would come running and Swami would tell him, look at her Ayya, she doesn't understand that when she hits me, it hurts a lot. Immediately ayya would ask me, why did you do it? My reply was simple He hit me and so I hit him back . Swami used to tell ayya, see ayya, she hit me here so badly. It is so painful. She does not understand that my body is so soft. It was only when he said that did I realized that his body was very soft.

Content: Q: How did you take care of him? Was he different from a normal person? What about his food? Was it different? Did you assume the role of a mom and do all this or did you do it playfully?

Content: A: Whenever he behaved like my sons, whenever he was naughty, I donned the role of a mother. For example when he left the toys scattered around and never bothered to put them back. On these occasions I assumed the role of a mom and would reprimand him. But of course it was of no use as He would flatly refused to pick them up. Whenever I complained that he doesn't bend his body to even pick up a small toy, he would in turn say I have the same attitude too. Of course I had a standard answer for this and say: yes, just like my Guru.

Content: Once I managed to make him grant me a boon. I said, I have suffered enough in my life. I have pandered to may people's whims and fancies. Now I want to be arrogant. Swami replied, so shall it be. Just like

Content: Bakaswaran. And I practised this attitude mostly on him. Only after the training program that we had for a month, my behavior changed. We were asked not to talk too much during this program. After this my digs at Him also reduced. Earlier, I never felt that he was special. I felt we were equal. Probably that's why I played and fought with him like that.

Content: Let me narrate an incident. We were staying at Cunningham Road. Mr. Kuppuswami gave us space to stay in his residence. He was an elderly gentleman, old enough to be my father and extremely fond of me. He was a bachelor and had an irritable nature. No one got along with him. Even when Swami spoke to him; he insisted I repeat the same thing to him. He would say Let me hear it from amma. She is very down to earth.

Content: Swami used to heal him everyday. Once Swami had to go to meet Sita achi so he asked me to take care of Kuppuswami. Swami asked me if I could manage and I assured him I could. Though I had said yes, I was a little apprehensive. What if the old man dies ? This thought started troubling me. If something untoward happened to him Swami would be very upset.

Content: Due to this fear I started healing Kuppuswami twice a day, both in the morning and evening. I gave healing for all his seven chakras and spent half hour for each chakra. Kuppuswami was a lonely man and looked upon me as his daughter. Likewise I looked upon him as my father and a very cordial relationship developed between us. He was very relaxed in my company. May be because of this he recovered very fast. In a matter of 3 to 4 days, he was a rejuvenated man. I always suspected if Swami set up this situation on purpose.

Content: In Kuppuswami's presence Swami would laugh like a young boy all the time. Kuppuswami was not comfortable with this. On the other hand till Swami met Kuppuswami, his behavior was normal- his usual mature self. But the moment Swami entered the house, his behavior changed. He seemed to done the attitude of a immature young boy. He never showed any respect to Kuppuswami in his conversations. I used to feel embarrassed. Maybe he gives a different projection to different people. With great difficulty Ayya and I tried convincing the old man that Swami was God.

Content: The old man would tell me, amma, I am also trying my best to believe that he is God. But if he speaks like this (laughing all the time like a small boy) how can I believe? Poor man! I could clearly see that a drama was going on. Maybe the drama was happening through him.

Content: For three days, Swami continuously called up to find out about Mr. Kuppuswamy. One day Kuppuswami told Swami on the phone that he was being looked after well, but Swami asked me again to reconfirm. Within 7 days Kuppuswami's face was glowing like a rose, radiant with good health. It looked as if he had taken a new birth. The care and attention , combined with intense healing sessions had done miracles. As soon as Swami came back, the first question he asked was if Kuppuswami was dead or alive. I informed him that he was keeping well. Swami went straight to meet him and enquired about his health. Kuppuswami told him that I had taken very good care of him and praised me a lot. Ayya was sitting next to me and Swami was on the other side. While Mr. Kuppuswami was showering me with praises, I was very proudly pointing out to Swami and said, Listen he is talking about me.

Content: When we came out of the room, I asked Swami, how is the old man doing? He is looking good isn't he? Swami replied, He is doing well because of me.

Content: I was shocked, What? You are responsible for it? You tried to heal him before you left, but what happened, nothing. It was only after I started healing he has improved so much.

Content: To this Swami jokingly said, I thought only the old man was singing your praise. Now you are also singing the same song. Stop, enough of it. Wait, I will handle the old man.

Content: I said, Swami atleast nothing wrong happened. Don’t you feel that both of us are equal? You don’t want to accept it. Maybe I am able to give more energy than you. Swami started running down the staircase shouting, ayya, ayya. When Ayya came, Swami started saying, she is saying that she has got more powers than me. Ayya wanted to know why I was saying so.

Content: I replied, Ayya, Swami says that existential energy works through him and that I didn’t do anything. The existential energy or Parashakthi is working through me as well. The only difference is it is more effective through me. Why is he so upset about it?

Content: Swami retorted, Ayya look at her arrogance. She has no fear. She has got too much courage. Amma, those days I was very arrogant. When I used to sit, Swami used to say, Ayya, look at the way she is sitting. She is sitting like a queen.

Content: Q: Why did he keep you in that arrogant mood?

Content: A: I was a very soft person by nature. Maybe he wanted me to come out of it. I don’t know. All my arrogance was only with him.

Content: Q: Whenever Swami wanted to eat, you could sense it. How? Even Ayya was quite surprised and asked you, how you knew about it?

Content: A: I used to cut dry fruits and send it to my sons in hostel. In the same way, I used to cut dry fruits and give Swami too. He used to be very thrilled. He used to say, I have never eaten all these before. Only now I am eating them. Before you came here people used to bring me food. They used to chat for a while and go away. They too never bothered if I really ate or not. I would just go to sleep without eating. I never had the desire to eat. . Only after you came, I have really started eating.

Content: I used to wash and iron his ochre clothes. For this he would say, I have never ironed my kaavi (ochre robes) colored clothes in my life. Should it really be ironed? Why should it be ironed?" But if you feel it should be ironed, then do it.

Content: According to Swami, he never had an intention of starting an institution. He once said it was only after I joined him this thought arose in him. When I joined him, I came placing my entire trust depending upon him. Since my whole faith was placed on him, I became a reason for him to stay in his body. That is why he always calls me, Sangha Janani. You are the roòt cause of the institution, he said. Looking after him was such a small matter, but Swami expressed so much of gratitude. He would show his gratitude for every little thing I did for him. On a lighter vein, I thought to myself, for such little from my side Swamis showering me with his gratitude. What would happen if I had done more (to the best of my abilities) Swami would have run out of gratitude!!!

Content: Nobody could predict when Swami would have his bath or eat his food. But the moment he called out amma I would immediately ask him, Swami, do you want hot water or do you want to eat? He used to feel very happy with my accurate reading of his requirement. He always asked me, Amma how do you know what exactly I want. Even before I ask for it you know about it. My simple answer was, Swami, I don't know, why and how. I just felt like you might want that particular thing at that time. That's all. I was in tune with him. Only when we get tuned with our master, he can help us in our progress. Perhaps that is what was happening. Swami was extremely happy with this.

Content: Q: Ayya ,mentioned about how you took care of Swamiji through your intuitiveness. Can you tell us more about it?

Content: A: Suddenly Swami would get up in the night and ask me for food. He had no idea about what he had eaten or how much he had eaten or whether he had eaten at all. Many times when I had asked him to have some food, he would say he was not hungry. But the moment I sat down to eat; he would say he was very hungry too. I used to fight with him, I have been asking you to eat all this time and you refused to eat. Now you have to wait till I have finished mine. Ayya would then request me to serve Swami. But I wouldn't change my decision. Instead I would ask ayya to serve Swami.

Content: It was only later that I learnt about how Swami didn't have much of a mind on matters like food. That is why he never had thoughts like I should eat or I want this. Only when the smell of the food touched his senses his mind reacted.

Content: One day late at night while at home, I had a strong thought. I felt as though Swami had not taken his food. This though was troubling me a lot. I wanted to prepare some food and take for him. I requested Ayya to take me to Swami right away. But he pacified me and explained it was too late and promised to take me the next day so that I could take freshly cooked food for Swami. The next day we found out from Swami that he was busy with a lot of visitors and had skipped his meals.

Content: During this period sometimes Swami was a kid to me while sometimes he was like a friend. But later I also started feeling that he was the mother and I was the kid.

Content: Q: How was Ayya with Swami? How did he see him?

Content: A: Since I was in such a joyful, playful mood I never noticed these things.

Content: Later ayya did mention something to me. He said, Initially, I was not very strongly attracted to Swami. I didn't feel compelled to stay with him. But the transformation I saw in you changed my mind. You were like a flower. I know what all that you underwent in life and all difficulties you have faced. In spite of all this you are transformed person now. You have blossomed like a flower. You are totally on the spiritual path. My decision to come to Swami and stay with him was entirely due to you.

Content: Q: Swami has started the mom's club. When he addresses you all as mom and when he gives names as Mayi, what does he mean? What is your understanding of it?

Content: A: Whenever we took leave of him ayya used to fall at his feet. I never prostrated in front of him. In spite of him asking me to do so, I would not do it. I never believed in it. Swami used to say, do it, at least you

Content: will carry home some energy to handle your mother-in-law. Then very reluctantly I would do it. Then slowly the number of devotees around Swami started increasing. I felt awkward seeing all of them prostrate.

Content: On the one hand it was just fighting and hitting each other between us. And on the other hand I saw his devotees giving him so much respect. I used to tell Swami, They are all giving you so much respect Are you such a powerful energy? May be I should also change my attitude. I should start giving you respect. I pestered him with all these questions:

Content: His reply was, let them do it. You just be what you are. You are looking at me as a child. Stick to it. Only that will help you in your progress. Then I understood this was my path. At least, this is my understanding on this subject.

Content: Q: So was it, Vaatsalya Bhaava and Sakha Bhaava?

Content: A: Most of the time it was Sakha Bhava. But of course, I have experienced all the bhaavas with him.

Content: Q: Did you ever have an intention or a premonition that you would be meeting Swami one day?

Content: A: No.

Content: Q: Any other experiences that you would like to share?

Content: A: Before going to bed I used to do the breath watching meditation. When I sat down to meditate, Swami would keep calling for something or the other. I used to feel irritated and fight with him. Since morning I

Content: have been playing with you. Now, when I want to meditate why are you disturbing me? I want to meditate,

Content: I want to get enlightened. We used to fight over this.

Content: In some of meditation programs I attended before meeting Swami they advised us not to talk too much.

Content: They explained that talking would deplete our energy. I kept on telling him, Why are you talking so much.

Content: Your energy will get depleted. He was so patient and understanding and put up with all my nonsense.

Content: Recently I told him jokingly, Swami you are really enlightened. Otherwise you could not have put up with

Content: me and Ayya. We also could not have progressed to this level. Swami was happy to hear this.

Content: Q: Right from the day you met Swamiji, till today what are the changes that have happened in you?

Content: A: There has been a tremendous change in me. I am no more the same Jamuna Rani. All the qualities

Content: associated with her have vanished. They do not exist now. I can no more identify myself with that person.

Content: I am relieved from my engrams. I am no more troubled by the inner chatter or by the pull of some desire.

Content: I feel liberated. I can feel the freedom.

Content: Q: Did you get attached to Swami?

Content: A: Yes. I have a great attachment.

Content: Q: Now things have changed. He has become more serious. Do you miss the friend in him?

Content: A: No. It is like weaning the child from milk after 4 years. I was so attached to his form, but Swami

Content: wanted us to go beyond the form. To me Swami was everything. I was totally dependent on him. But

Content: Swami thought otherwise. Being attached to his form was also a type of bondage. One cannot enjoy the freedom. Just to cut that bondage and set me free, he worked on me for about a year. That one year was torture for me. How could I live without Swami? He was everything to me. I really suffered during that one year.

Content: On one hand I wanted everybody to benefit from him but on the other hand I was very possessive about him. Fortunately, Swami out of his compassion gave me the intelligence also to understand the problem. Slowly I let go of my possessiveness. After a year I became normal, back to my old self. Definitely it was not my intelligence but solely his compassion that brought me out of that situation. I was not responsible for it.

Content: Q: He kept you at a distance because of his compassion, isn’t it?

Content: A: Yes. When a child sees a new comer, it will hang on more to its mother. I was also like a child. As it is my dependency on Swami was too much and if he had not maintained that distance, my hold on him would have only increased.

Content: Q: So the distance gave you the strength?

Content: A: Yes. Initially I used to cry and feel miserable all the time. I even got sick. .But later once the understanding happened, I continuously offered him my gratitude. Ladies are not able to handle the separation that well. Maybe that’s why you don’t see too many women Gurus. Once, I experienced the freedom, gratitude was flowing out of me continuously. I realized that only a gyani, a master could give

Content: this freedom, free you from the bondage. It was his compassion which kept me at a distance. It was not easy for him to see me in this state too.

Content: We cannot say that he had no feelings. Actually all his senses are at a heightened level. It was at its peak. Whatever I went through he also went through. In spite of this he had so much of compassion for me. He did what was beneficial for me. Swami wanted to bring me out of this suffering and he stood by me and brought me out of it.

Content: Q: There is this ‘moms club’. I think the message for them is this – enjoy him as a child and look after him well. But when the situation changes, let go. They are not possessive. If you become possessive, you will suffer. Is my assessment correct?

Content: A: No. Some people have no problem and do not go through the pain because they have a clear understanding. They are not possessive. It is not a must that everybody should suffer. There is no need. I did not have the intelligence and so I suffered. Swamiji does not want us to get into any bondage, including that with his form.

Content: Q: So every mom has a different path?

Content: A: Yes. It depends on her intelligence. Due to my intelligence or the lack of it I suffered. Those who came later than me, at least they had the knowledge of my experience. As far as I was concerned there was no past-history available to me. At that time, his mother also did not exist for me. To me the world comprised of only him and me.

Content: I can now recollect the day when Swami, Ayya and I had gone to Chennai for the registration of Dhyanapeetam. We were accompanied by three other people and visited the beach. Ayya refused to get wet. Only Swami and I went into the sea. We got wet, rolled on the sand, ran around and played like kids. We had sand all over our hair. It was great fun. People may wonder how Swami could have played like this. But I too never felt awkward around him due to my friendly and protective attitude towards him.

Content: Once I told Swami that according to my horoscope this is my last janma (birth). The astrologer has predicted that I would be seeing God before leaving the body. I was also told that usually people have only a darshan but I will be able to see him in the real roopam (form). This prediction was so accurate.

Content: Q: All the time you were playing or fighting with Swami, did you at any point project your softness or your motherly feeling? Can you relate some incidents when your motherliness took precedence over your arrogance?

Content: A: May be after a year it started happening. I had become more mature. I started seeing him from a different angle. I started feeling immense gratitude towards him. It was just pouring out of me. Initially I was seeing him as a child but later on I started seeing him as a gyani, but not all the time. Most of the time I saw him as a child. Many times Ayya and I slept in the same room as Swami. Those times I never felt I was never there. Many times I have had such experiences I enjoyed the experiences but did not give too much importance to it. My fights with him continued. Swami must have been responsible for keeping me in that mode.

Content: Q Both you and Ayya were with Swami. At any time was there a fight between you two as to who should take care of him?

Content: A: I never looked after him. I always thought that it was Ayya's job. I never demanded to take care of Swamiji. Right from the time of marriage, I used to look after Ayya like a nurse. He was on a lot of medication. The situation scared me since I never took any medicines at all. We liked each other a lot. So I did not mind being a nurse to him. But once I came to Swami, Ayya was not in my thoughts at all. At times when Swami hit me playfully Ayya would be upset, he told me later. He thought to himself, “I used to handle her so carefully just like a flower, where as Swami is hitting her”.

Content: Not for a moment did I think about Ayya's predicament. I was blissfully unaware of his feelings. The fact that I was his wife never crossed my mind even once.

Content: Q: your experience must be unique, isn't it?

Content: A: Swami used to say, the way I am available to you, I will never be available to anyone else in this world. Since you came first to me, I am able to give you so much time. I used to feel that Swami was just boasting about himself and trying to make us feel good. Only now that I am able to understand how fortunate I have been, how valuable it has been. Normally when we look back at our life, incidents like getting married, child-birth will come to our mind. But I never remember any of these incidents.

Content: Only the time I spent with Swami remains etched in my memory. For example a trip to Kashmir will pale into insignificance when compared to the exalted joy that I experienced in Swami's company. Now, I

Content: realize how fortunate I have been. Swami is so busy now with so many things to do. He can never spend the kind of time that he gave me with others now. It can never be the same. Those days there was not much work to do. Even regular activity like eating didn’t take up much time. So we kept on talking. Our simple living conditions also didn’t bother me.

Content: On one side my father-in-law was threatening to throw me into the river since he didn’t want me to live here, and on the other side the people who helped Swami by giving him the land were also creating problems. At this point Swami asked me if I wanted to go home. He was prepared to go back to the Himalayas.

Content: Q: Has he ever discussed his spiritual experiences with you or Ayya?

Content: A: Swami and Ayya would talk continuously. I never liked this so I kept scolding them. Are you lovers? I asked them. You should first eat your dosa (rice pancakes) and then you can talk. Once when I tried to stop their conversation Swami hit me on my head with the plate. He said, I am having an important discussion with him and you are disturbing us. I never took part in these discussions.

Content: Q: So only Ayya knows about the mystical experiences?

Content: A: Yes. I never ever imagined that an enlightened Master would bring me to this level in spirituality. The spiritual master I had met earlier was like a yogi. We lookup on him as a superman. In contrast Swami was so different. I just knew for certain that he had some powers. But all these things did not bother me.

Content: I was so blissful. I wasn’t even aware that he had so much knowledge. I would never be able to grasp his words. I only kept gazing at him.

Content: Q: Can you predict what are the things that are going to happen through Swami?

Content: A: I am now touring Tamilnadu quite a bit. I am pretty ignorant about spiritual subjects, but I can tell you one thing. There has been no avatar like him. I am positive that the world will be turned around. I am sure there hasn’t been a gyani this powerful.

Content: Q: Were you there for the first energy darshan?

Content: A: I was the first recipient.

Content: Q: did you feel anything at that time?

Content: A: Nothing. But the next day, would feel the impact. I used to feel a difference in my body.

Content: Ma Nitya Sai Prasanna

Content: Ma Nithya Sai Prasanna

Content: MAGANE GURUVAIH

Content: GURUVEH IRAYAI

Content:

• Son transformed to Guru

Content:

• Guru transformed to God.

Content: Magane-My son:

Content: 1987- This was the year I stepped as a new bride into the holy town of Thiruvannamalai. My husband Shri Sampath Kumar [Shri Nithya Frank] is a Rotarian and hence we were greeted by Rotary Club of Tiruvannamalai in a grand manner within a week of my marriage. Shri Nithya Arunachalananda (A.Arunachalam) Swamiji's father who was also a Rotarian was present there.

Content: A. Rajasekar second son of 'Chandru Sir' (as we referred to Sri Arunachalananda) used to attend all family meets of Rotary with 'Vibuthi' on his forehead, half trousers and an immaculate smile. Yes I know Swamiji since he was a boy in his sixth grade school days onwards.

Content: Ma Nithya Lokanayakananda (Mrs. Lokanayaki alias Punitha) wife of Chandru Sir has always been an innocent woman, talking incessantly about household matters and other day to day affairs. We both chatted together a lot and soon became good friends. All her three kids were tall, slender, tanned with a wide smile. I had never ever seen the children without a smile. The happiness on their faces was a reflection of the happiness in 'Chandru Sir'. He always sported a great smile and filled the environment around him with laughter and jokes. No one walked out of his office without a tummy ache due to excessive laughter. He had an excellent sense of wit and humor. We all loved to be in his company.

Content: 66

Content: On the other hand Lokanayaki amma was a very devoted wife like ‘Valluvan-Vasuki’ of Tamil Literature.

Content: She always admired her husband and was a caring mother to her children.

Content: There’s was a well to do family but I never saw her boasting of their material possessions.

Content: Although not highly educated she viewed people with innate affection.

Content: This aspect in her always captured me.

Content: I used to comment to her Lokanayaki amma – if swami was my son I do not know how I would have handled myself.

Content: It would give me such a heady feeling to have a great son like Swamiji that may be I would always be floating above ground.

Content: Several times I had sat holding her hand during Swami’s discourses telling her why don’t you feel great at all?

Content: He is your son sitting over there and rendering unbelievable discourses.

Content: Won’t you feel proud at all?”

Content: She used to give a broad smile, sigh slowly and answer Doctor amma I don’t feel anything at all.

Content: I’m happy, that is all.

Content: I don’t even understand most of his words.

Content: They are beyond my understanding.

Content: I neither feel he is my son nor do I feel he has become a great God to others.

Content: I do not think anything when I see him”

Content: “Yenakku Onnumé Thonuvathillai”.

Content: These are the exact words she often repeats to me.

Content: Imagine if any one of us had the chance of giving birth to a God, couid we be this humble, innocent and graceful as she is?

Content: I always think.

Content: She was my Nithyananda Spurana Program (NSP) classmate.

Content: For all four days we sat together during the Nithyananda Spurana Program at Salem.

Content: Here I shared with her see it is like Dewaki and Yasodha sitting together.

Content: I know gave birth to him, but I enjoy every word of his, I capture his body language too and feel more and more drawn towards him.

Content: Now tell me how you feel…”

Content: You are a learned Doctor amma - you feel so many things. Yenakku Onnume Thonale (I think nothing about him) was her reply.

Content: Because she is an immaculate and innocent soul she has been chosen as the mother of our Guru and God. To say I think nothing needs real courage. To accept ignorance you need a pure heart. To accept what life imparts to you one needs a sage like "Manobhava" which is an innate quality of Lokanayaki amma.

Content: Though I was asked to share my memories of swamiji as a boy, Guru and God I chose to write about his parents because no one else can disclose these facts as I can. We were good family friends ever since we met.

Content: There had never been a single blemish in our relationship all these years. As Swami puts it hearts were connected with hearts. Neither money nor power intruded between us to cause any rift. The couple was pure at heart, and this nature was ideal for Swami's good spiritual growth and his sheer presence of mind (which I am confident he inherited from Chandru Sir). A child who has sad, insecure parents may never shine at all in spite of his/her intelligence. The couple's happiness, caring nature towards each other and towards their children and moreover the obedience Lokanayaki showed towards her husband till his last days are all quotable traits any family can adopt for a beautiful living.

Content: At home it was an all-boys family with Amma being the only woman and Chandru sir cracking jokes at each and everything all day long .....Oh what a lovely, lively atmosphere it was!

Content: Their second son Rajashekaran was always seen at small street temples cleaning the idols like ‘Baktha Panduranga’. He spent his pocket money for camphor and pooja articles at an age when other boys would spend them on movies or fancy goods. I don’t ever recollect seeing the boy without “Vibuthi” on his forehead. Swamiji’s maternal grandfather was a highly spiritual person who inculcated good “Siva thoughts” in him. Even as a child he used to recite all “Sthala Puranam” (history of the temple and town) “Thiruvasakam” (holy hymns on Lord Shiva) in a professional manner.

Content: One of his close friend was Sampath. Sampath’s family was known to me through my profession as a doctor. So I had a close watch on all these kids.

Content: There is a temple in our town called “Arunai Nayaki Temple” where the kids decorated the goddess so beautifully that it would make the elder poojaris envious of them. I often went to the temple to meet them. I would go, call out their names and when they came out to meet me , I would enquire about them , say a few encouraging words and leave.

Content: Little Rajashekar had a great band of friends. Together they celebrated “Vinayakar Chathurthi”, “Navarathri”, “Sankatahara Chathurthi” etc on a regular basis. I marveled at his leadership qualities of getting together his group of friends who would spend most of their time in spiritual activities when most children their age would be playing games, watching movies or loitering around.

Content: Our town is very unique. It has a Vinayaka temple or at least one small deity on every street. The boy cleaned idols with coconut fiber brushes, swept and mopped the floor inside the Karpagraha, dressed the idols with his father’s or grandfather’s unused dhotis, and would stare at them with self appreciation. One

Content: of his friends once told me that Rajashekaran would shed tears if the temples idol were dirty and not cared for.

Content: Oh my! I could not comprehend this deep and intense 'Bhakthi' in a boy of that age?

Content: Our rotary club once arranged for family trip to Kanya Kumari. It was the time when Swami was still a school boy. He along with his two brothers occupied the last rows of the bus. During this three day road trip we had a session were the kids were encouraged to perform anything of their interest. Rajasekaram got up to recite the story of Arunachleeswara temple in the form of a Kathakalatchebam'. Few Rotarians got up and complained humorously please sit down we are not here to listen to Samiyar stories. Please do not bring any spirituality into the bus. However despite the protest the child received a big round of applause for his efforts.

Content: Funnily the same Rotarians who protested and bullied the little boy are today the healers of Dhyanapreetam. Fate had beautifully turned tables!

Content: The parents sent the teenager to a polytechnic college during which time I heard he was behaving 'differently'. 'Differently' is the term given to him by other boys because he would constantly talk, read and search for 'Gnana'. Since now we were not in the same city I would rely on little tit-bits I got on him. Even I wondered what he was upto when I heard details about his search for Gnana. And finally I heard he was missing. That was when he had chosen to go on Parivrajakah (Wandering). For a little while I was angry at 'Chandru Sir' for not having kept a stern eye on his son. For the next one year we had no information about where he was or what he was doing.

Content: Several months later we received a phone call from some Rotarians informing us that Chandru's son had renounced regular life and he had arrived at the 'Oya Madam'( a rest house for passers-by) of our town.

Content: I was initially taken back at the developments. But I soon recalled all his childhood days and calmed myself. I immediately wished to see the child whom I had seen growing up like Baktha Prahalad.

Content: When we went to see him tears welled up my eyes. He had a tonsured head, saffron dhoti and bright eyes sitting on a mat. I took his hands and said I feel happy so happy. I feel as though my own son has become a sanyasi.

Content: Not all kids will opt for this life. I feel happy seeing you... I'm immensely happy seeing you...

Content: I did not have any other words to say at that moment but his enlightened face drew me towards him like a magnet. I visited him the next day too.

Content: Before he left our home town once again he visited me at my Out -Patient room. He has a cloth bag hanging on his shoulder, and with such pure simplicity he told me Amma I just wanted to see you.

Content: I took him to my pooja room and we offered prayers together. He left my home after having a glass of milk. I felt my soul drenched in sweetness and wished he could have been my son.

Content: Again a year later he came to our home town with a group of devotees on his 'Jenma Nakshathram'( Birth Star celebrations).

Content: I immediately rushed to see him along with my husband. I was the first in the queue. When he arrived I could at once sense that he was heading in a direction where soon there would be thousands of devotees thronging him.

Content: He was the same boy I knew with bright eyes and a captivating smile.

Content: I took his hands and blurted “I’m happy to see you again”. He blessed me with his usual words “Anandhama Irunga Amma”. After meeting him when I returned to my out-patient room I was flooded by intense waves of ecstatic happiness. For no reason tears were rolling down my cheeks. My hands picked up a pen and I scribbled down 3 Tamil poems on him. I’m an emotional poetess and I write only when my soul is soaking in intense emotions. When I sang these poems as songs and presented them to Swamiji on a CD he gifted me with the first copy of his pictorial biography ‘Formless in Form’.

Content: January 1 - 2000 when Swami inaugurated Dyanapeetam at Bidadi a special invitation was sent to us. My husband was taken aback at the special attention given to us. We were the only couple from our home town. I packed a gift of saffron dhotis and raisins with a letter blessing him on this important occasion. I bless you my beloved son was one of the lines in my letter. Imagine me blessing him!. It amuses me whenever I think of that line.

Content: After the inauguration ceremony, when we went on to the stage to bid him goodbye Swami introduced us to the Ex PM & CM Shri. Devagowda with the following words They are like my parents. They come from my home town. He lifted the garland he was wearing and put it around my husband’s neck and hugged him. My husband fell at his feet immediately. I was moved by his child like simplicity and his humble way of honoring people. It’s no wonder I love to be at his feet. And my husband bowing down to Swamiji was a sure sign that people just melt in Swamiji’s presence.

Content: Guruvai: Transformation into Guru.

Content: I lost my mother in 2004 due to abdominal cancer and I was feeling depressed. One of my uncles who saw my plight suggested why don’t you attend ASP?

Content: Nothing can help my condition and an ASP wont help the loss I underwent was my blunt answer. He tried to persuade me further It is only with Chandru's son that you are going to experience happiness. You always felt he is your child. So why don't you go and attend his class with the same feeling. After all he is the same boy whom we have known for years". That worked for me and I decided to attend the ASP.

Content: On the first day as Swamiji arrived and sat on the dias I looked at him with an empty feeling. My longing for my mother was so deep even after 10 months of her passing. As I heard Swamiji's words, views, stories, questions, ideas, chanting, jokes and comments my soul started moving towards him.

Content: On the first day of ASP when the Manipurka Meditation was taught to us I did not follow the instruction. Instead I burst into tears remembering my mother. I cried for forty five minutes. To my surprise I felt a tremendous lightness. I felt carefree just like before. At that point I folded my hands and whispered 'You are my Guru'.

Content: On the second day of ASP when he stepped into the hall to the music of 'Mannathi Boothamentum', I could feel a deep connection to him and my soul reached out to him. My heart was overflowing with love while I repeated the words "Magane Guruvay". That is - 'My son who is my guru'. That was the day I understood that he is a spiritual master, a twentieth century mystic and I felt he represents an energy similar to Swami Vivekananda.

Content: As an obstetrician I had a very stressful life working round the clock trying to cope with situations of sorrow, death and pain. ASP relieved me of the stress and taught me how to handle various situations effectively without getting stressed. I don't think there will ever be such a beautiful meditation program as

Content: the ASP. It benefits the common man in his/her everyday life in a very profound way. It is a very

Content: 'Wholesome Anand' that my son is spreading to the world.

Content: Guruvah Iraiyai: Guru transformed to God

Content: After Ananda Spurana Program (ASP) I attended the Nithyananda Spurana Program (NSP) at Salem with

Content: Lokanayaki Amma. We were together all the time. During the class we sat next to each other in the front

Content: row watching and listening to our son at close quarters, when I commented to Lokanayaki Amma “You are

Content: like Devaki who gave birth to Krishna and I feel like Yasodha who had the opportunity to enjoy all his

Content: leelas”.

Content: I'm your Rasikai (fan) Swami I tell with a grin whenever I meet him. He fondly calls me 'Doctor Amma'

Content: and gives me a hug whenever I meet him. I received the same loving and compassionate hug even when

Content: I met him during the death ceremony of Chandru Sir.

Content: During NSP I refused to get a new spiritual name from Swamiji because I had earlier received a name

Content: from Shri Sathya Sai Baba. I explained this to Swamiji and opted not to receive one more spiritual name.

Content: On the last day of NSP during the spiritual-naming ceremony the atmosphere was charged with great

Content: music, dance and celebrations. I started crying like a child. Suddenly Swami called me gave a very special

Content: hug and said. I knew you will ask for a name. As you wished you will continue to be Sai Prasana, I've

Content: just added 'Nithya' in front of it. I'm always with you... Don't feel bad. The way I felt at that time cannot

Content: be expressed here in English or any other language. It was a wonderful, heart warming sensation beyond

Content: expression.

Content: The last day of NSP when Swami gave Ananda Darshan to all of us I'm sure each person present there would have had a wonderful experience, moved beyond control and would have started worshipping Him thereafter.

Content: During Ananda Darshan I had a vision of him super imposed on the image of the 'Giri' (the mountain at Thiruvannamalai which I worship). I immediately shook-off the image my head off and told myself 'No I want him back as my son... I can't put him at a distance as God'.

Content: Lord Krishna was never a God to Yasodha. He had always been a son to her. Krishna opened his mouth to show her a vision of the universe but erased the memory from her mind because Krishna too wanted her as his mother. He didn't want her to be in awe and fear and consider him as God and loose the intimate relationship they shared. This is the depth of my relationship with Swami.

Content: During the Healers Initiation at Bidadi I presented Swami the 'Suprabatham'( song to wake up the lord) and 'Thalattu' (lullaby). In Thalattu I wrote stanzas that contain affectionate phrases to call him by. Swamiji told everyone present there “Of all the Bhavaas 'Vaatsalys Bhaava' (love between mother and child) is the best form of worship. It is the best Bhaava and a superior form of worship. So Doctor Amma don't feel bad for considering me as your son. I need not be God to you. I'm happy you see my as your son and I'm happy you are my mother.”

Content: Tears welled up in my eyes; because I had always felt bad thinking how most devotees who approach Swamiji worshipped him while I stood aside in Vaatsalya Bhaava. But now I felt my apprehensions were put to rest and my true spiritual journey was given a direction.

Content: How blessed you are when your son is your 'Guru and God'. I'm immensely happy ... happy to be one among Swamis Moms.

Content: 76

Content: Ma Nithya Sachitananda

Content: Ma Nithya Sachitananda

Content: Introduction

Content: Our Lives - BN (Before Nithyananda!)

Content: I came to the United States in January 1984 as a student. I went to University of North Carolina at Greensboro to pursue my Masters Degree in Information Science. My husband, Shiv (currently Sri Nithya Sachitananda) also came as a student to pursue his Masters degree in Chemical Engineering. We met in New Jersey where both of us were working. We got married in 1989, against the wishes of our families due to differences in caste. We then started pursuing what they call the American Dream. I was driving 1-2 hours to work in northern New Jersey and Shiv was driving 1 hour to work in Delaware working for a major Chemical company. We both lived in the same house and but saw each other only on weekends. By the time I got up everyday he was gone to work and when I came back from work and retired for the day he would come home. So was our life.

Content: After moving from New Jersey we spent a few years in Pennsylvania, Chicago, and finally in Oklahoma City. I stopped working when we were in Oklahoma City since the kids were growing up. Shiv was moving up the corporate ladder and this came at the expense of working long hours at work. Shiv was a weekend Dad since he only got a chance to spend time with us only during weekend. We had a nice home, nice cars and two kids and were financially well settled, thus living the so called American dream.

Content: 78

Content: In the last 5 years before I met Swamiji, Shiv and I we started getting interested in Spirituality (or what we thought was spirituality). Both of us would buy two sets of the same spiritual book just to be sure we could both read the book at the same time. A lot of our books had bookmarks at Page 10 for several years! So was our spiritual quest. I always felt that people who lived in the 19th century were lucky to be exposed to such great masters like Paramahamsa Yogananda, Rama Krishna Paramahamsa and Ramana Maharishi.

Content: The time when Swamiji arrived in Oklahoma City, Shiv and I were not particularly seeking… infact we almost missed seeing Him. We thought we could not spare our weekend since this was private time for ourselves and we did not want to trade this for a 48 hour meditation session with a Swami. (For all those reading this book, I would urge you to take the time to meet this Master, for he has come to share his knowledge and wisdom to transform millions all over the world). The next three years that followed has been an adventure of a life time (actually many lives). We are truly blessed to be in the presence of this Master, a Master who has come down to heal and transform humanity, a Compassionate teacher who is changing lives all over the world, every day.

Content: How I Met Swamiji

Content: It was Aug 7th 2003, a Friday, we were new to Oklahoma, and did not know many people there. A friend invited us to attend a 2 day meditation workshop. My immediate reaction was to find excuses not to go. I thought who was going to sit for 48 hrs and waste a weekend. Upon my friend's persistence to atleast attend Swamiji's discourse on Friday, I reluctantly agreed to go. Swamiji and his crew were staying in another friend's house.

Content: I had very radical views before I met Swamiji. I didn’t believe in paadapooja ( prayers and offerings to the master’s feet) as I had a strong conviction that God is the ultimate energy and that we should not bow down to anyone else. Firstly, I had this notion that most Swamis are fake. I knew Swamiji was a healer. So the temptation to meet Swamiji was strongly driven by my greed to receive healing for my health problems. Well, anyway my ego spearheaded me, and I decided I was not going to succumb to some healing by some ordinary fake Swamis and that I should have complete trust in God alone.

Content: US Tour 1 - August 2003 - First Trip of Swamiji to the United States

Content: Friday Discourse:

Content: I finally went to the discourse and we were all waiting for Swamiji to come downstairs. After a few minutes someone said, Swamiji is coming. There was a lull in the hall, and then I saw a person clad in white clothes, with a half grey beard coming down the stairs. Oh oh, is this Swamiji? He was supposed to be young, and then I heard someone say, no no this is not Swamiji. It is Ayyah, Swamiji’s secretary. For some reason I heaved a sigh of relief. After sometime, there was silence again and quick moments from his crew members indicated that Swamiji was finally coming down the stairs. As Swamiji was descending my heart started pounding for some unknown reason. I completely froze as he came down; he looked all over the hall and greeted everyone with a beautiful smile. He looked at me for a brief second, ‘that was it’ something like a bubble erupted in my heart. I don’t even know how to describe the feeling. I had never felt anything like this before. An announcement was made to gather for Swamiji’s discourse which was to be followed by question and answers. Totally mesmerized I just followed the group. After the discourse we queued up to receive healing from Swamiji. Unbelievable, but I was the first one in the

Content: line to go to Swamiji for healing. Swamiji briefly touched me and said my chakras were blocked and I should attend ASP the following day. I said I was not planning on attending it, but he just looked at me and said, ‘amma, I want you to attend’ and I immediately said, “Yes Swamiji”. On my way back home, I knew right then, that I found my MASTER. I was eager to share this experience with Shiv who had returned home from Europe. He had a presentation to complete and was not sure if he could attend the ASP along with me everyday. But the details I gave him had him so interested that he sat up all night to complete his work so that he could come the next day to attend the workshop.

Content: Saturday/Sunday - ASP:

Content: I had the fortune to attend the first ASP that Swamiji conducted in U.S. The next two days were a totally different experience. Due to my health problem I suffered immensely during the workshop, and I found it very hard to cope up with the medications. I don’t know how I managed to survive those two days. Unlike others I did not have any experiences during the workshop. I was too preoccupied with the pain and discomfort due to my medical problem. Swamiji completed the ASP at 8 pm on Sunday evening, to accommodate some people who had to leave early. After we came home my condition worsened and Shiv insisted we go to the Emergency Room. For some reason I didn’t take heed to his words and instead went to the pooja room to sleep. That night was the turning point in my life. In my sleep I started getting all divine visions. In the middle of the night I felt the presence of someone in my room. I got up and half sat in the bed. There in front of me, I saw Swamiji swinging in a rocking chair with a smile. I could not believe my eyes. Even today I don’t know if it was real or hallucination, but since then the

Content: medical problem I was suffering from just disappeared instantly. It has been three years now and there is absolutely no trace of the problem.

Content: Monday House Visit/ paadapooja:

Content: The following morning Swamiji agreed to come to our house for paadapooja. He hugged Shiv as soon as he stepped inside the house and announced that Shiv was going to be his ambassador. We did not take this comment seriously at that time. But with passage of time and Shiv’s involvement with Swamiji’s mission, we now realize the truth in his words. This was Swamiji’s first paadapooja in U.S. and we did not realize this until Swamiji himself mentioned. After the puja Swamiji spent time talking to all of us and he mentioned to my mother that she was a Christian during her last birth. Some time later Swamijii gave her the spiritual name Ma Nithya Jesus Ananda.

Content: The next few days went by very quickly with evening discourses in the temple. On Friday we went to bid goodbye to Swamiji who was leaving for California. I felt very emotional and sad that Swamiji was leaving. Swamiji noticed this and held my hands in his and said I will be with you ma. Now I felt even more miserable and felt as though a part of me was leaving.

Content: Initial Experiences:

Content: Our batch of ASP participants decided to do the highly recommended Dukkaharana Meditation for 21 consecutive days. We met every evening. On the 9th day, as I was chanting hookara. I felt a sudden burst of energy explode through my body. This energy stayed with me for a few days. I was utterly surprised and was constantly questioning what it was all about. I decided to call and speak to Swamiji who was in

Content: India at that time. He listened to me and advised me to wear the rose-wood mala everyday, hold the pendant with his picture and meditate between 7 – 7.20 (am or pm). I followed this routine diligently and experience amazing result within 48 hours.

Content: This was followed by another beautiful experience. One day, soon after I had my shower, I heard the sweet melody of flute music floating through my house. The general sound seemed like some one was chanting the word Om. I called out to Shiv to see if he was playing some new CD. But there was no response from him. Instead I saw my mother coming down the stairs. We met at the foot of the stairs. I enquired if she was playing some music. She had an equally surprised expression, as she heard the music too and was wondering from where it originated. As we stood there, we heard the music waning off gradually. We didn’t find any answers that day, but we reveled in the melodious mystery.

Content: After the first experience in the pooja room, I started sleeping there every night. One night after finishing my work, I shut down the computer and went to bed as usual. In the middle of the night, I heard a Thud coming from the computer. Normally when the computer is turned off a green light continues to blink. I looked up at the sound and saw the green light was not-blinking. Instead there was a constant solid light from which appeared the shape of a human eye. I jumped from my bed and stared at it for a long time till it disappeared. I didn’t understand the meaning of this incident, but like the other inexplicable events, I joyfully let it go.

Content: One afternoon I was preparing to take a nap. I wasn’t fully asleep as yet, but with my eyes closed I saw a bubble appear in front of me. The bubble was very clear, and in it I saw the image of a very old mansion. Then it just disappeared. The significance of this dream still baffles me. The vision of this old

Content: mansion has often repeated since then. Similarly on another afternoon, I told my kids not to disturb me while I went to take a nap. I closed the bedroom door, and lay down on my bed. Just as I shut my eyes I felt a movement and a breathing sound me in the room. It was approaching me. In a flash of a second I realized it was the kids who were coming to wake me up. I squeezed my eyes tight so that they would think I am fast asleep, and leave without disturbing me. But at that moment I heard peels of laughter from the kids coming from the other room. Startled I opened my eyes, but didn’t see anything. I ran outside to confirm if the kids or my mother had entered the room while I was asleep. All of them denied coming to my room. The whole incident baffled me, once again.

Content: All members at home felt a high energy inside the house. We had many indoor plants. These plants were blooming and blossoming and turned luscious green during this time.

Content: Even our friends noticed these changes and commented about it.

Content: Swamiji's Second US Tour- FEB 2004

Content: Meanwhile we heard Swamiji was preparing for his second tour to US around February 2004. Shiv and I were very eager about sharing the joy and knowledge packed in the Ananda Spurana Program with friends family and the rest of the community around our town. In fact we didn’t restrict ourselves to Oklahoma City. We even started contacting other cities to schedule a probable visit so that many more could meet Swamiji. Palaniappan, Swamiji’s PRO called from Singapore. He wanted Shiv and me to meet them in LA when they arrived from Singapore. Pallaniappan also asked if I could accompany them while they toured various cities in the US. But only Shiv joined them on this trip as I had a doctor’s appointment for a mammogram.

Content: The appointment with the doctor was scheduled for a Friday. The results showed a lump which the doctors suspected to be malignant. Next an ultra sound scan was scheduled for the following Monday and a biopsy for Wednesday at 2 pm. At my mother's persistence I called Swami at 10 am on Wednesday. I informed him of my condition and requested for his healing, of which I had heard a lot. Swamiji listened to me and said "Don't worry ma, I will take care of it. Just meditate on me while the biopsy is being performed." At 2 pm I was wheeled in for the biopsy. The doctors briefed me about the procedure. An initial ultra sound would help locate the tumor, and then a few cells would be extracted from it. This sample of tissue would be sent the lab to confirm the malignancy of the tumor. The doctors looked at the x rays taken 2 days back to pin point the exact location of the tumor. And then they started the ultrasound. I saw that the doctors were taking quiet some time to locate the tumor despite a clear indication of its location from the x ray. They were going back and forth with the scanner over the precise location that the x ray indicated. I was studying the expression on their faces, and knew they were struggling to locate it. As per Swamiji's advice I started meditating upon him. At this time the doctors were loosing patience and were confused why they couldn't locate the tumor that was visible in the x ray taken just 2 days back. Finally they found a lump but at a very different location. Still they went ahead and performed the biopsy and the result showed that it wasn't malignant. Later on I called Swamiji and updated him about my condition.

Content: I joined Swamiji on his US tour at Seattle. When I met him I brought up the subject of my miraculous healing. I asked him Swamiji, what happened, how did I get healed? He in turn asked me if I experienced anything while I was meditating during the procedure. I told him I hadn't felt anything. He smiled and said, I had entered your being ma while you were meditating on me and took care of the problem.

Content: Serving the Master:

Content: My US tour with Swamiji started, and with it unfolded a new chapter on my time with Swamiji.

Content: This is when a deep emotional bonding and a true understanding of serving the Master was taking a definite shape within me. I had never been around a Master, so being around him and attending to his needs was all too new to me. There was no orientation program or a hand over of charges either. And above all, out of the blue Swamiji told me you are my mother. I felt very nice and touched when he said that. He discussed a few things he was particular about. Of course after this I was left to the divine elements to guide me. The famous scrambling started then. I would put out the wrong combination of clothes, or would be in deep sleep forgetting to wake him up on time. There were occasions when Swamiji himself would come and wake me up instead. Those were the days when the scrambling was at its peak.

Content: It was winter in Seattle when I started serving the Master, adopting the attitude of Mom. I had very few guidelines to help me. One of which I understood was to maintain a certain temperature in his room especially at night during winters. During one of our stays at a devotee's house, I took it upon myself to keep a vigil outside his room to ensure that Swamiji's room was maintained at the right temperature all night long. This is how I gradually developed sensitivity to his needs and requirements. While mostly I took care of Swamiji himself, I started coordinating for His programs in other cities. From Seattle we briefly went to Oklahoma for Shiva Ratri celebrations. After we returned to Seattle a couple of close devotees and I accompanied Swamiji on a skiing trip. Swamiji was geared up in Ski Boots, ready to hit the ski slopes. During the skiing we all had great fun and I observed that all this fun was bringing in a new friendly closeness between Swamiji and me.

Content: On our flight from Oklahoma to Seattle, Swamiji mentioned to me that Sage Bharadwaj, Angeerasa, and Narada had come to the west long time ago. He said Sage Bharadwaj came to Oklahoma, Sage Angeerasa came to California (known as Kapilaranya in our mythology) and Sage Narada had come to pacific North West. During our stay in Seattle we went up to Mount Ranier to see the ski slopes. Suddenly Swamiji asked us to stop the car at a certain point on the mountain. I thought Swamiji wanted to get off the car to see the view of the mountain. But he just walked straight to a board which read Narada Falls. (Native Indians had darshan of Narada and hence the name) I was just amazed to see the board since Swamiji had just mentioned to me on the flight about the three sages who came to America. By now I started getting used to the various inexplicable events and miracles happening while I was around Swamiji.

Content: Our tour continued into New Jersey / New York. It was snowing and we all had a enjoyable snow fight out in the open. During the week we had a discourse scheduled in NY City. After the discourse that evening I drove Swamiji and the crew to enjoy the colorful NY city lights. At a traffic light where there was no permission to take a left turn, I decided to ignore the sign and make the left turn. Swamiji’s warned me not to do it. But I assured him I knew what I was doing. The moment I made the left turn, I saw the dazzling lights of a cop car in my rear view mirror. I meekly pulled over to the side, and without a moment’s hesitation begged Swamiji shamelessly to take care of the situation. Ordinarily in a situation like this I would have surely got a ticket from the cop for the violation. But what actually happened was something very amazing. The cop approached our car with a very severe look on his face. I immediately apologized to him for ignoring the sign but my apology didn’t have much impact on his attitude. Meanwhile at the same time I saw Swamiji turned to look at the cop with a burning intensity on his face.

Content: Within a few seconds the cop decided to let me go after giving me a mild warning. I of course learned a precious lesson of never ever to ignore my Masters signs of warning and caution. I also realized how my ego and arrogance made me blind to signs that would protect me.

Content: It was during this trip to New York City, Swamiji insisted he wanted to visit the site of the World Trade Center. It was a bitter cold night and we thought Swamiji maybe wanted to get a view the tragic 911 site. Since this part was not on our plans I did not carry any warm clothes for Swamiji or any of us. As soon as we approached the area I could see the change in his expression. He became suddenly serious and intense and stayed that way for a long time. We just stood beside him shivering in the cold not knowing what was happening. Swamiji was also draped in his regular kaavi clothes which was not sufficient for the severe cold weather. He was standing in the cold in a meditative state. After a long time he indicated to all of us to get back into the car and head back home. In the car he was back to his usual self and explained to us that he saw many souls lingering in that area and that he had come to NY city just for liberating the souls. I started to understand the different dimensions of Swamiji slowly.

Content: Our tour next took us to Oklahoma. Here Swamiji stayed for two weeks out of which he stayed for a week at our house. One day he surprised all of us by walking into the kitchen and started making dosas and vadas for all of us. The next day he collected all the kids and went biking with them around the development. Due to all these casual moments we saw Swamiji in completely different light.

Content: During the Oklahoma trip I realized the subtle ways in which the Master works. Ways that are beyond the comprehension of the human mind. One evening we all drove to a Stillwater. While driving, Swamiji started dictating some notes to me. By the time we returned home it was well past midnight and He

Content: wanted me to type out these notes and send it through an email to the ashramites in Bidadi. But before sending it, Swamiji wanted to take a look at it the following morning. The content of this email was pertaining to the Sanyas( monkhood) initiation. I was sleepy and tired, and unfamiliar with some of the Sanskrit terminology that he had dictated. So I was sure the document might have had many errors. With great difficulty I sat through the night and completed it. Next day during the Ananda Spurana Program while the participants were meditating, Swamiji signaled for me to show him the email. He pointed out to the numerous errors I had made in the email and suddenly out of the blue I felt a sudden whack on the side of my head. I can’t remember what he said at that point, but I was quiet shocked and taken aback by his action. Soon after the session I walked away to my room. Immediately Swamiji sent word for me. I came back with tears in my eyes and found myself talking to Swamiji about some of the hidden emotional baggage that I been carrying around for a long time.

Content: I would never have been able to vent it all out had it not been for this incident. And it was not until later I realized that this was a healing process Swamiji used on me to get rid of some of the deep rooted engraved memories (samaskara) which have put me through a lot of emotional turmoil over the years. Mysterious are the ways of the Master. Many of his close disciples have witnessed and experienced the Master’s unique techniques that have eliminated lifetimes of karmic-baggage.

Content: Ohio was our next stop; where I witnessed a beautiful event unfold. My daughter Swetha who was 13 years old joined us in to attend the ASP since she missed doing it in Oklahoma. She insisted she wanted to do the ASP and was even willing to drive for 16 hours with other friends who were coming to do the ASP. In the meantime nature had a beautiful surprise in store for Swetha. A day before Swetha left for

Content: OH, she called and told me that she had her first menstrual cycle. It was only then that I remembered. Just a week back in Oklahoma Swamiji had predicted that Swetha would reach puberty in about a week's time. I was stunned at Swamiji's accurate prediction and Swetha's intense desire to be in Swamiji's presence during the ASP. I hurried to share the news with Swamiji. I saw abounding joy on his face.

Content: By the time Swetha reached Ohio, Swamiji sent Shiv and me to an Indian store to purchase all that was required to perform a very special ceremony to celebrate this momentous occasion for Swetha. He explained that Swetha just received a beautiful gift from Mother Nature. She was on the threshold of blossoming into motherhood. In the evening, soon after the discourse ended Swetha arrived along with other friends from Oklahoma. Without any further delay Swamiji met and hugged Swetha. He presented her with the gifts for the ceremony and instructed me to help Swetha wear the traditional sari for the ceremony he wanted to perform. What followed was the ultimate experience a teenager can have to understand the beauty of reaching maturity. And since this was all done in the presence of a Master, the meaning and importance of this event will be etched in her memory in a very special way for ever. We were advised to handle her very gently during this phase. Shiv and I saw Swetha blossom into a glowing being in front of our very own eyes. And for me I could clearly see the motherly energy in Swamiji come alive. This was an attitude of compassion, care and love that naturally comes to mothers towards their children.

Content: The next leg of Swamiji's tour took us to Brazil. I could not accompany Swamiji due to some prior commitments. By then I had developed a special bond with Swamiji. I was feeling miserable for not being able to take care of him in Brazil. But I made sure all his clothes were ironed for the trip and gave

Content: instructions to the host family regarding Swamiji's dietary needs. In the mean time Shiv and I rigorously started working. We got organized to coordinate with the new centers, creating handbooks, organizing materials, etc.

Content: We were scrambling to put together a handbook for the city coordinators. We wanted to finish the handbook before Swamiji came back to Chicago from Brazil. When Swamiji saw it he was not very impressed with the content and the layout of the handbook. And at the spur of the moment he started dictating the content. The information he gave was so clear and precise. Swamiji gets very intense in everything that he does. I saw the administrative side of Swamiji at that time. During this time Swamiji asked Shiv and Palaniappan to show him the accounts. He at once noticed the $6.00 excess in the balance sheet. It was not the amount but the sense of awareness & responsibility that he was inculcating in each of us. In fact he said, how can I trust you all with the accounts when you cannot balance the amount. Both Shiv and Palaniappan had to sit all night to tally the accounts. This incident revealed to me the detail oriented side of Swamiji.

Content: It was during this trip Swamiji agreed for us to move to Bidadi Ashram in India. As soon as Swamiji left for India we put our house on the market for sale. Swetha and my mom moved into the ashram first. Later Rithi (my younger daughter) and I joined them. It was quiet a co incidence that I moved into the ashram on my birthday. I did not plan for it this way. In fact I was coming back to India after 14 years of my stay in US. When I moved into the ashram there were just a few ashramites living there. Everyone had left for the Himalayan trip with Swamiji. In fact I had mentioned to Swamiji that I was entering the ashram on my birthday. Swamiji said “this is a new birth for you ma”.

Content: One night Swamiji was having an intense and private session with the Bidadi ashamites in the Laughing Temple when I received a phone call from Shiv. He was in NJ winding up things in US before he joined us at the ashram. He called to tell me he was involved in a car accident. He sounded pretty shaken up, and I could tell he was feeling a little lonely at that time. He asked me if I could request Swamiji to take care of the situation while he was waiting for the cops to arrive. For a few moments my heart went out to Shiv who was all by himself in this situation. At this point, it was not just about Shiv being on his own. I was going through a combination of emotions and dilemmas as our family was trying to adapt to new and unfamiliar environments. I slowly made my way to the Laughing Temple. Although I didn’t want to disturb Swamiji, Shiv’s plea for help was echoing in my ears. I waited to catch Swamiji’s attention. It was just after a few minutes that Swamiji noticed me and my grim expression. He stopped mid sentence and asked me Are you Ok Ragini ?. I rushed to his side and whispered in his ears in a choking voice the details of Shiv’s call. I was very close to breaking down. Swamiji immediately gathered me in his arms and consoled me. The intense compassion that Swamiji showered upon me can only be comparable to a mother’s love for her child in distress. He assured me that he would take care of Shiv and with a brilliant presence of mind advised us on a few crucial things in context with the accident.

Content: Arrangements were being made for Gurupoornima celebrations. One day Swamiji called some of the ashamites to his quarters and asked each one their intention of taking Sanyas initiation. When my turn came, without even waiting to ask me he said I should wait until Shiv arrived from U.S. But I was very eager to take the initiation so I immediately started pleaded with Swamiji to give me Sanyas initiation. I said this was my decision and it had nothing to do with Shiv. After a lot of perseverance from my side,

Content: Swamiji in all his compassion agreed. Of course I called Shiv told him about my decision. Shiv in his usual understanding way told me I should do what my heart said. I had not idea about Sanyas initiation or why people take Sanyas. But I felt very intense about it and I was sure it would help me in my spiritual growth. Later on I came to know Swamiji had spent one month with ashamites to educate them about sanyas life. All this had happened before I moved into the ashram. Even today Swamiji teases me. He says I snatched Sanyas from him. During the grand finale of the Guru Purnima celebrations, Swamiji wears the most beautiful garland in the evening for energy darshan on this special day. I was pleasantly surprised when I was called upon to do the honour of garlanding him. It was indeed a momentous occasion for me.

Content: Immediately after Gurupoornima I visited Hyderabad my home town. I went there to organize an Ananda Spurana Program (ASP). In fact I went to Hyderabad after 14 years. The Hyderabad ASP was very successful one.

Content: I had been caught up in a deluge of activities for the organizing and planning of the ASP in Hyderabad. It was only after this Hyderabad trip that I got an opportunity to spend a few moments with the kids since the time we moved from US. Around his time, the kids were going through a adjusting-phase in their new schools. Swamiji repeatedly advised me not to send the kids to a school. Instead he wanted them to study under his care at the ashram in the Gurukula System. Soon we realized that the conventional schooling wasn’t working well for the kids. Since Swetha and Rithi had been studying in the US, I thought enrolling them in an international school will help them with a smooth transition. However over a short period of time the kids had to face situation like social class discrimination, and were ridiculed for staying in an ashram, and also faced corporal punishment. The kids were finding all this very traumatic. After taking up

Content: the matter with the principal, I felt the kids should continue for a while and give it another chance. I left

Content: for the US shortly to join Shiv. We wanted to complete the formalities of selling our house in Oklahoma,

Content: and shipping our belongings to Bidadi ashram. But on our return we noticed that the situation at the school

Content: had not improved at all. Swamiji had seen enough of our travails and put his foot down and declared that

Content: Swetha and Rithi will now be educated at the Gurukulam in the Ashram and will not go to the

Content: international school anymore. The kids were jubilant at the prospect of being close to Swamiji and study

Content: at the Ashram under his tutelage. Shiv and I accepted the decision gracefully. Today we see the wisdom

Content: and foresight of Swamiji's decision when we see our daughters growing up into beautiful beings. Our

Content: intellect, conditioning, apprehensions and ego prevented us from accepting the truth.

Content: Swamiji Tour 3 August 2004

Content: When Swamiji's 3rd US tour commenced, Shiv and I were in Oklahoma tying up all loose ends. I was

Content: supposed to leave for New Jersey early in the morning to receive Swamiji. He was expected later that

Content: night. But when I woke up that morning, I was hit by a bout of vertigo and I was in a terrible condition.

Content: I dragged myself out of bed and with Shiv's help, got on to the flight with great difficulty. Despite

Content: medication my condition didn't improve. The hosts in New Jersey, were warned about my condition by

Content: then. They picked me up at the airport and took me home. In the evening, we three drove to the airport to

Content: receive Swamiji. I could barely walk and keep my balance. But I just knew that I had to keep going since

Content: I had to accompany Swamiji on the entire US tour. Since I had strong faith in Swamiji's miraculous

Content: healing touch, I waited until we all came home and then went straight to Swamiji's room for healing.

Content: Swamiji placed his hand on the crown of my head for a few moments. I opened my eyes, and walked

Content: straight out of the room without a wobble or any dizziness. There is no doubt that Swamiji had miraculously extracted all the illness out of me in a fraction of a second. His healing touch doesn’t cease to amaze me even today. I have witnessed thousands of people from around the world being cured of dreaded diseases due to his healing.

Content: We continued with the tour through Maryland and Ohio where Swamiji conducted ASP and NSP. In Columbus Ohio, we stayed in Ma Viroopanda’s house. A discourse was scheduled in Dayton which is a 2 hour drive from Columbus. By now I came to realize that Swamiji was working on me in his own mysterious ways. He was probably breaking my ego and helping me develop total awareness in everything that I did.

Content: I was very confident about myself and very proud of my organizational capabilities as well.

Content: Soon after the discourse we drove back to Columbus. In the car Swamiji asked if I had completed the task he had earlier given me. I was supposed to insert some new CD wrappers. This had slipped my mind completely and I meekly said that I forgot. Swamiji seemed like he was in no mood to listen to any excuses. He started reprimanding me for the next 2 hrs. until we reached home. In between he kept on telling me not to resist him. I did not know how to react to that statement. I just sat in the back seat with clenched fists feeling quiet miserable. A funny phenomenon happened while he was speaking so intensely. The car windows started to fog up. Since it was a cold night defog was also not possible and Ma Viroopanda was finding it very difficult to drive. With all the commotion that was going on we missed the exit from the highway. Now Swamiji explained how one should always stay aware and conscious in all situations. Well, as soon as we arrived home I just staggered into the living room and sat

Content: down to insert the new CD wrappers. I could see from the corner of my eyes Swamiji coming and sitting next to me with a smile. He made some small talk but of-course got limited response from me. He knew that I was very upset. At that moment he bent down towards me and ran is fingers over my head. All of a sudden I felt something cool go down through my body and I started to perspire. Swamiji removed the large Rudraksha mala he was wearing and put in around my neck. Still smiling He got up and went to his room to retire for the day. I just sat there bewildered not understanding what had happened. I had mixed feelings of anger and frustration. Later on I realized what Swamiji had done. He was showing me to be aware and conscious all the time and at the same time cutting down my ego. Above all the amount of compassion that he showered on me after we came home was unimaginable. With this incident I felt that the master was using his Zen stick to help me grow.

Content: During the ASP at Ohio, I had the opportunity to see a different dimension of Swamiji- as a father figure. A distraught Shiv called me in the middle of the ASP session to break the most awful news. He was calling me from a bank in Oklahoma to tell me that the stack of money he came to deposit at the bank was missing. I was of course shell shocked, as it was a large amount and would have been a colossal loss of hard earned money. I suggested that he go back to his hotel room and look in the suitcase and other possible places where the money might have been left accidentally. He said he will call me back after searching his room. In the meantime, I was going to pieces thinking of the situation. I had hit the panic button. I was beyond myself and broke into a cold sweat. I could only think of one person to whom I could run for help. Shiv called me once again. The money could not be located. He asked me to inform Swamiji of the situation. But Swamiji was in the middle of the ASP session. So I scribbled a note Swamiji,

Content: need to talk to you. It is an emergency, and took it to him. Swamiji read the note, and was soon with me

Content: after starting the meditation session. I was at the far end of the hall, huddled in the corner, trembling with

Content: anxiety by the time Swamiji approached me. I could barely speak. I felt weak and slid along the wall into

Content: a heap on the floor. I felt two strong arms lift me up smoothly. I was facing Swamiji's serious face. He

Content: wanted to know the details. In between sobs I told him Shiv lost all the money Swamiji. He can't find the

Content: money in the bag. I can't forget the look on Swamiji's face at that moment. A soft smile spread on his

Content: face, and in a very cool and confident manner he told me, no one can touch this hard earned money. Tell

Content: Shiv to look in the bag once more. In a daze I called Shiv and conveyed the message. While I waited,

Content: Shiv looked in the bag once again. Lo and behold!!!! .....to his utter disbelief he found the money there.

Content: And that day I saw how like a father figure, Swamiji just took charge of the situation and was there like

Content: a pillar of strength during the most distressful situation. By now I started getting acquainted with

Content: Swamiji's miracles.

Content: Siddhachalam - Teacher Training 1

Content: The first teacher training in the USA was held in NJ. The venue was a Jain ashram called Siddhachalam.

Content: We all saw Swamiji in various dimensions and moods during the teacher training - as a friend, as Krishna,

Content: as Vishnu and as a Master. In the middle of a training session at around 12pm Swamiji called Shiv and

Content: me and asked for some Pizza. In fact he had tasted pizza only during this trip but never ate in the public,

Content: since it will be considered traditionally unusual for a Swami to eat pizza. I was a little surprised that he

Content: had asked for pizza. I was not sure if I should bring it to the session or take to his room. Well we went

Content: in the middle of the night hunting for pizza. We were not sure we would be able to find it at that time of

Content: 97

Content: the night. Luckily we saw a place that was open and we were able to bring a large pizza. We put couple of slices in a plate, covered it with another plate and took it to Swamiji. The whole scene looked very comical. All eyes turned towards us watching us carry food for Swamiji in the middle of a session. As soon as he opened the plate there was a gasp from the crowd, and Swamiji coolly started eating as though eating pizza was normal for him. It was interesting to see the various expressions that people had on their faces.

Content: Towards the end of the teacher training session Swamiji broke a secret to all of us. One of the acharyas invited Swamiji to visit Swami Vivekananda’s ashram during his next trip to LA. Swamiji just looked at him and said but I have been there. For a moment there was a lull in the hall and it took a while for people to understand and realize the significance of his words. Next, Swamiji started to speak about Josephine McLeod who was an ardent devotee of Swami Vivekananda. Suddenly, he announced Josephine McLeod is here, amongst one of you and then just walked out. This came as a surprise to all of us. Then I remembered how so many people felt Swami Vivekananda’s energy in Swamiji. How fortunate I am to be able to serve such a great master in my life.

Content: By the end of the training program the acharyas had come very close to Swamiji and looked up to him as a friend and as Krishna himself. This was the first ever teacher training session that Swamiji was conducting. Just before energy darshan Swamiji became very emotional as he started to speak. Here are the words that Swamiji spoke and the words still ring in my mind. In the name of all masters I bless you all with the glimpse of enlightenment I promise whatever has happened in this body let it happen to you. Let you spread the bliss, let you be acharyas.

Content: Stay in Bidadi Ashram:

Content: The next few months proved to be a turning point for me. I was able to see Swamiji beyond his physical form.

Content: After we returned from US Swamiji had to go to Kanchipuram to conduct NSP. It was for the first time after several months that I was not joining him on a trip. For some reason I felt a twinge of pain that Swamiji was leaving without me but I kept it to myself. As soon as Swamiji came out of his quarters he sat in his Ford Endeavor and said goodbye to everyone. For a few seconds he looked at me and smilingly waived. As he was leaving, with a choking voice I told Shiv how I was already missing Swamiji, and Shiv in his own way tried to console me. After about 45 mins Swamiji came back to the ashram. We were all surprised to see him back. I thought he forgot something the ashram, but instead he said, Amma, I felt your energy. Looks like you are missing me, do you want to come with me. I immediately jumped and said yes. Now Shiv and the kids looked at pleaded with Swamiji for permission to come along. Since there was not enough space in Swamiji's van we followed Swamiji in another car. I was quiet amazed to see how Swamiji felt and sensed my longing to be with him. The compassion and love that he showered on me just touched me immemdiately. The coming months proved how Swamiji worked on me to go beyond His physical form.

Content: Initially I found it difficult to cope with the Indian culture. After living a free life-style outside India for 20 years the conservative environment now curbed me in man ways while serving Swamiji. On top of this Swamiji restricted me from coming into his quarters to even serve his meals. I had spent so much time taking care of Swamiji in U.S and all of a sudden I felt alienated and found it very difficult to cope with

Content: the situation. But all through these trying times I maintained my composure. Later I started realizing what Swamiji was trying to do was to help me grow, so that I don't get caught up in his physical form. It became so clear to me that I felt a heavy burden lift off my shoulders. I developed a beautiful balance within me to enjoy Swamiji's presence while I was with him, and at the same time enjoy doing other things in the ashram. I started to cherish every moment of my time in the ashram.

Content: We got thoroughly engrossed in setting up the ashram's office close to Jayanthi celebrations (2005 January). Just before Jayanthi we had a NSP scheduled in the ashram and at the end of the energy darshan Swamiji came to the new office and asked me to get his dinner. Shiv and Gopal came along with me to the kitchen to help me carry the food back to the office. As we were about to enter his office one of the ashramites who was outside the room mumbled something which we did not understand. We proceeded to enter the room. Swamiji was inside all by himself and was utterly shocked to see us come in. I did not see this side of Swamiji before. We did not realize that Swamiji had told one of the ashramites not let anyone come into the office. As we mentioned to Swamiji that we were not aware of his instructions he calmed down and told us to leave the room. Later, Swamiji called us and gave us a special energy boost and explained why he got upset with us. He said he came to the office to radiate his energy inside the new office building and this process makes his body expand. During a complete expansion, an ordinary human being will not be able to see Swamiji in that state or be able to handle his energy. So when we entered Swamiji's office he was just getting out of the expanded mode and for obvious reasons of course Swamiji did not want us inside the room at that time. Whenever Swamiji gives energy darshan we now understand the awesome state of connecting to divine that Swamiji goes through. This is one of the greatest gifts a master can give to anyone.

Content: Thiruvannamalai trip

Content: After Jayanthi celebrations Swamiji took all the devotees from outside India on a trip to Thiruvannamalai,

Content: Swamiji's birth place. Later in the evening Swamiji took us to the rock where he had his first spiritual

Content: experience. Here he had a 360 degrees vision when he was 12 years old. It was a long 30 minute hike up

Content: the hill and as usual, Swamiji was climbing the steep rocks with great ease while we all were panting

Content: behind him. As soon as we reached the hill Swamiji went straight to the rock and sat on it. Swamiji sat

Content: with his back towards the Arunachala hill while we all sat around him to listen to his narration.

Content: As He was telling us about his experience we all noticed the Arunachala hill light up just like a full moon.

Content: We could even see small pebbles from the distance. Amazingly it was a dark night with no moon. There

Content: were no lights visible anywhere near Arunachala hill. This phenomenon lasted for almost half an hour.

Content: Swamiji in his usual teasing mood denied he had anything to do with the light and also said he himself

Content: was baffled at this sight. Upon our persistence he suddenly became serious and uttered these words

Content: "Lord Arunachala Himself has given a darshan, cherish this in your hearts all your life." Soon after he

Content: spoke these words he jumped off the rock and started to climb down the hill. We all scrambled to go

Content: behind him and happened to look back at the hill. Amazingly the light on the hill disappeared and there

Content: was total darkness on the hill. We all started climbing down the hill feeling grateful to Swamiji for giving

Content: us this experience.

Content: USA Tour 4 -March 2005

Content: US Tour 4 started with a blast. The cities that were covered were Los Angeles, San Jose, Oklahoma, St

Content: Louis, Ohio and New Jersey.

Content: Krishnalaya 2nd Teacher Training

Content: The most significant event of this tour was that Krishnalaya ( the second teacher training). During one of

Content: sessions Swamiji shared his vision of a ashram in Los Angeles. In just a few months later the same group

Content: who was part of that specific session formed the LA ashram, and the beginning of a new international

Content: moment for Dhyanapeetam got started.

Content: Himalayas 2005

Content: Idly Engram

Content: Everyone pulls my leg now about the Idli engram that I had acquired it during the Himalayan trip. Well,

Content: Swamiji as usual was taunting me to keep my awareness and would pick on me for not getting hot food

Content: for him during the Himalayan trip. It would be an awfully difficult task to keep the food warm since

Content: Swamiji never maintains a specific schedule for his meals. We had brought our own cooks too but at one

Content: place we realized the cooks did not get the food ready due to some power failure.

Content: Ma Sadananda volunteered to go to the nearest south Indian restaurant to get the food. She somehow

Content: managed to get some good idlis and dosas. I was quiet skeptical to take the food to Swamiji since he had

Content: not asked for food as yet. But Jamun amma felt the food would go cold if I did not take it right away. So

Content: I took the idlis and dosa to Swamiji. He immediately questioned me why I took it without him asking for

Content: it. I went back to my room and put the food back in the hot case hoping it will stay hot for some more

Content: time. After an hour I went back to try again. This time Swamiji sent me on some errand to get something.

Content: I put a condition that he should eat his food after I came back from the errand. Well, that was a wrong

Content: choice of words from me, I realized it, but it was too late. I came back in a few minutes and asked him if he will have his dinner. Swamiji wanted to eat idlis and asked me if it was hot, I vigorously shook my head saying it is more than warm and I knew it was barely warm. My only aim was to have him eat at any cost. I put the food in the plate hoping he will not question, my hope remained as a hope. He poked the idlis with his finger and refused to eat. He said the idlis were not warm and soft. He snapped and said serving him should not be a mere job where I can put terms and conditions.

Content: There was a sudden realization about my attitude while serving him. Taking care of Swamiji was always a mental check-list. This made me very mechanical. But Swamiji snipped it right at the bud and made me aware before it could harm me anymore.

Content: This way Swamiji is constantly working on his crew and other people around him. These people have developed an intimate relationship with the Master where they are open to any of his techniques. In some situations the audience sees Swamiji reprimanding his crew but they do not understand the intimacy and openness they have developed with Him. This gives immense opportunity for Swamiji to take them to new heights of spirituality.

Content: Finally with this new understanding I begged Swamiji to give me few more minutes. We quickly cooked some fresh hot food at the restaurant in the hotel we were staying. I finally managed to give Swamji hot food and realized never to take the master for granted. Even today whenever I serve idlis to Swamiji during any tour, I poke the idlis to make sure they are not hard and cold. It has been a joke in the inner circle of disciples that I have developed idli engram.

Content: USA Tour 5 -June 2005

Content: After this eventful Himalayan trip I accompanied Swamiji to U.S once more. This trip was arranged for Swamiji to give discourses at the AAPI (American Association of Physicians of Indian origin) convention. After this we went to Seattle for the 3rd teacher training. On the conclusion of the program we drove to LA where Swamiji and his group of to-be-ashramites started their hunt for LA ashram land. Swamiji went back to India with Shiv for Guru Purnima in July, while I stayed back in San Jose to help out.

Content: USA Tour 6 - July - August 2005

Content: LA Ashram in the making

Content: Swamiji made three trips to U.S in 2005. The third trip in 2005 was to finalize a location for setting up the LA ashram. For six weeks we all stayed in a hotel with Swamiji. Every morning we performed the Guru Pooja in Swamiji hotel room. After the pooja we all went for a walk at Santa Fe Dam. Here we sat and discussed plans for setting up the new international headquarters. Great bonding took place between the entire group. There was lot of fun and laughter all day long, while plenty of work was getting done as well. In August a location was identified and all ten families moved into their new home. It was an exciting period for all. Everyone went back to their respective cities to pack up their entire belongings to move into the ashram permanently to live as a community under Swamiji's ideology.

Content: Rakshabandhan

Content: (Raksha= protection , bandhan = relation)

Content: The most memorable and the most beautiful experience was tying a Rakhi to Swamiji. During our stay in

Content: the hotel we celebrated the Indian festival Rakhshabandhan while we were living in the hotel during the

Content: pre-LA ashram days. We went on debating all day if Swamiji would allow us to tie Rakhi to him. Finally

Content: in the evening all five woman ashramites in the hotel, Medhananda Mayi, Dayananda Mayi, Viroopananda,

Content: Mitrananda and myself went into Swamiji's room and nervously asked Swamiji if we could tie Rakhi to

Content: him. Usually Rakhi is tied to a brother and Swamiji was curious to know why we wanted to tie one to

Content: him. We explained by saying how in Hyderabad rakhi is not only tied for brothers by their sisters, but to

Content: sons also by their mothers. Well, finally Swamiji consented and each one of us went ahead and tied Rakhi

Content: to Swamiji. After tying we stood in a line looking as Swamiji was looking at his wrist adorned by all the

Content: rakhis. Swamiji asked us what we wanted as a gift, as it is traditional to offer a gift to the person who

Content: ties the rakhi. We all had only one thing in our minds- Enlightenment. Swamiji immediately became

Content: intense and went into a meditative state for brief moment, after which he asked each one of us to get a

Content: paper and a pen to sign his promise of enlightenment. I rushed into my room and pulled out a Meditation

Content: is for You book. Here are the words that Swamiji wrote in my book.

Content: "Dear Ma Nithya Sachitananda:

Content: I hereby promise that I will make you realize (enlightenment) before you or I leave the body."

Content: His mission on planet earth was to help each- of us on the path and now He made it His promise too.

Content: End of 2005

Content: During one of our morning visits to Santa Fe dam, Swamiji announced he would deliver discourses on Gita. The next few days was a mad rush organizing and making arrangement for the huge event. The Geeta discourses were a great success. After the Geeta discourses, Swamiji made a trip to Brazil, Guadalupe, and Vancouver before heading back to India. Swamiji trip to Guadalupe and Vancouver was a great success. 2005 was whirlwind trip for Sri Sachitananda and me with Swamiji.

Content: The year ended with Swamiji's Jayanthi with all the LA ashamites, Guadaloupeans and Canadians present in large numbers at Bidadi Ashram for the first time for a family celebration. 2005 ended with a big bang. New ashrams all over the world were announced. An explosion of Dhyanapeetam and Nithyananda Foundation all over the world had begun.

Content: Conclusion -

Content: The Real Magic of the Master - Transformation in my Children

Content: Swamiji always tells us the greatest magic I can show is not materializing things from thin air or healing incurable diseases. True miracle is when there is a total transformation of the individual. I witnessed this great miracle in my children, especially my teenage daughter, Swetha (now Ma Nithyananda Sree).

Content: Our youngest Child Rithi (now Nithyanandi) was 7 years old and was literally 'saved' from acquiring samskaras from the world. Nithyanandi after she met Swamiji has had wonderful experiences of Swamiji's presence in our house in Oklahoma. As Swamiji says, she does not need much to fall in tune since she is

Content: already there. Kids who have been exposed to Swamiji at such an early age as Nithyanandi are truly the blessed ones - for they do not need to shed the layers of samskaras that all of us have acquired since childhood from various sources.

Content: Swetha on the other hand was a typical American teenage, interested in good clothes, music, movies and hanging out with friends in malls. The transformation she has undergone is simply spectacular. The moment she met Swamiji something sparked in her inner space. She was drawn to him like a magnet.

Content: While her challenges adjusting in India and the culture was a difficult phase in her life for a few months, her trust and belief in Swamiji and his teachings were unshaken during these trying months. Over time she became a voracious reader. She watches Swamiji's discourses all the time, capturing every facet of his teachings in depths and maturity which most adults do not possess. She has imbibed the master's teachings fully. As Swamiji says we have to live all our dimensions at once and explode in 360 degrees, Sree has imbibed these teachings to the core. In addition to studying for her 10th grade board exams, she performs arthi and other rituals in the ashram and is a writer with a flair. To date she has completed six books that range from devotional poems to the highest level of Vedanta. Her writings which will be released in 2007 will surprise all of us. I can see how beautifully she has internalized Swamiji's teachings and is now expressing them through the pen.

Content: This to me has been the greatest magic that Swamiji has shown me - a total transformation of an American teenager. It is these incidents that give us the inspiration to shed our past samskaras and continue to grow and help the mission and touch people all over the world. It is incidents like these that

Content: make us look at the magnanimity of this Master and makes our pinch ourselves and ask, “What have we done to be showered by His Grace?”

Content: My reminiscences for 2006 will be printed as a part of a detailed pictorial account of these magical years in another book very shortly.

Content: When God is my son

Content: 108

Content: Ma Ananda Roop Mayi

Content: Ma Ananda Roop Mayi

Content: On July 12th 2005- LAX airport, when Swamiji, first told me about a book with his moms' reminiscences, the first thought that came to me was, will I be able to write even one page? For I had not written anything like this before?

Content: Then, I remembered what Swamiji told me, when we believe in existence and surrender, everything will happen. That is what I did. I closed my eyes and sat quietly for a while, I thought of Swamiji, surrendered to my GURU and started typing and the words just flowed.

Content: WHERE DO I BEGIN? Do I consider myself lucky or is it Existence that showed me the way to Swamiji's presence? I did not realize till five months after I had first met Swamiji, that I had been given the gift of my life, of just meeting Swamiji.

Content: The First Meeting:

Content: August, 2003

Content: August 2003, my friend called to tell me that a Swami Nithyananda was coming to her house. She invited me to come and meet him. The last thing I wanted to do at that time was to leave my house, to meet a Swamiji. My mother had just passed away and I was extremely depressed. I did not want to see anyone and just wanted to be by myself at home. But I distinctly remember my friend wanted me to be at her home on Wednesday at 5:00 pm to meet Swamiji.

Content: The thoughts that came to mind were, is this really necessary? Will I get stuck in peak traffic? But it's a long way, and so on. I voiced all of these thoughts, to my husband, and made some

Content: Ma Ananda Roop Mayi

Content: On July 12th 2005- LAX airport, when Swamiji, first told me about a book with his moms' reminiscences, the first thought that came to me was, will I be able to write even one page? For I had not written anything like this before?

Content: Then, I remembered what Swamiji told me, when we believe in existence and surrender, everything will happen. That is what I did. I closed my eyes and sat quietly for a while, I thought of Swamiji, surrendered to my GURU and started typing and the words just flowed.

Content: WHERE DO I BEGIN? Do I consider myself lucky or is it Existence that showed me the way to Swamiji's presence? I did not realize till five months after I had first met Swamiji, that I had been given the gift of my life, of just meeting Swamiji.

Content: The First Meeting:

Content: August, 2003

Content: August 2003, my friend called to tell me that a Swami Nithyananda was coming to her house. She invited me to come and meet him. The last thing I wanted to do at that time was to leave my house, to meet a Swamiji. My mother had just passed away and I was extremely depressed. I did not want to see anyone and just wanted to be by myself at home. But I distinctly remember my friend wanted me to be at her home on Wednesday at 5:00 pm to meet Swamiji.

Content: The thoughts that came to mind were, is this really necessary? Will I get stuck in peak traffic? But it's a long way, and so on. I voided all of these thoughts, to my husband, and made some

Content: Because of the good experience I had during the meditation, I was now very interested and wanted to see Swamiji again. I stood in the doorway of the room and watched him. Priya Mayi, who had accompanied Swamiji from India announced about the upcoming Ananda Spurana Program (ASP). The program was to be conducted in ten days from then in San Jose. I asked Swamiji about the ASP and He told me to take a look at the brochures. I enquired from Priya Mayi about the two day retreat called the Ananda Spurana Program. I asked her what am I going to get out of this program? And she replied, this program is about meditation on the seven chakras. You have to experience it to know what you are going to get from this program. It is an experience that cannot be explained.

Content: This answer really caught my interest. I went back home and could not stop thinking about the Maha Mantra meditation and this young Swamiji. A very strong urge took over me. I somehow wanted to attend the ASP in San Jose. I called some of my friends who had also met Swamiji along with me. To my surprise they too were in a similar predicament. So we decided to go to San Jose together.

Content: During the ASP, I had severe low back pain with sciatica pain. So I sat on a chair at the back of the meditation hall. At beginning of the program Swamiji said after the completion of the ASP Program all of you will feel so light as though a boulder has been lifted off your shoulders. I thought to myself, but I feel light even now. It was only after the completion of the ASP Program, that I understood the real meaning of what Swamiji said. I felt not just a boulder but as though a huge mountain had been removed from my shoulders.

Content: At the time of registering for the ASP program, I noticed the registration forms for ‘Healers initiation’. I did not know what this program was all about so I read the forms and said to myself this is not for me! But, after the first day of the ASP, I started thinking about the Healers initiation to be held on the 3rd day i.e., Monday.

Content: I was now in a dilemma whether to stay the next day or leave. I prayed to Swamiji for help as I had to also make suitable arrangements for my appointments that day. I am positive it was Swamiji’s blessings and Divine grace, everything got sorted within few hours. That night, after the completion of ASP, I felt very ecstatic and couldn’t sleep at all.

Content: The next morning after checking out of the hotel we met Swamiji for the Healer’s initiation. That day I decided I was going to sit in the front row on the floor even if my back and my foot bothered me, I did not want to miss anything he spoke. The Healer’s Initiation was a very absorbing and wonderful experience. Since I sat on the floor, my back started hurting.

Content: But, when I told Swamiji about the pain his expression immediately changed to such deep compassion. He sat down and asked me about my back pain, with such concern, care and compassion. I told Swamiji about my TWA plane crash landing a long time ago, due to which I was suffering from back pain and sciatica. Swamiji listened, asked me a few questions and then placed his hand on my back for a minute or so. He advised me to take healing from one of his healers in Los Angeles and said Don’t worry you will be healed. After this we all bid him good bye.

Content: Soon after boarding the flight I started meditating and went through a wonderful experience. I recollected Swamiji telling us that things may seem different after the healer's initiation and that it will settle down. I presumed this might be due to the weekend meditation. But I suddenly realized that my back pain, with which I had lived with for so many years, had disappeared. There was no trace of it. This was unbelievable.

Content: That night I could not sleep. Despite not having slept properly for three nights, I did not feel tired. I had so much energy.

Content: I remember feeling very different after being initiated as a healer. Once when I was in my garden I remembered Swamiji saying that he had healed some trees and animals too. I looked at the sick Curry Leaf tree that wasn't growing and drumstick tree that hadn't borne any fruits till date. I wanted to see if the healing works on plants so I did the required meditation and, placed both my hands around the trunk of the Drumstick tree and gave healing to it. Since the trunk of the tree was large I could place my palms only on one side of the tree. (This is an important point to note, to be explained later). Next I healed the Curry leaf tree too. While healing I had a vision that the tree was growing tall but at a particular angle. Well anyway, a couple of days later, my husband and I were traveling.

Content: When we got back ten days later, the drumstick tree had 8 inches long drumsticks fruits and was healthier on the side where I had given healing. The other side still remains small and thin. The curry leaf tree which had stood at the same height for so many years had grown considerably but at an angle just like how I saw in the vision while healing it.

Content: December 2003:

Content: I went visiting my family in India. Accompanied by all of them I went to Bangalore to get Swamiji's blessings. We met Him at the Bangalore City Center. But before returning to Chennai I wanted to visit Swamiji's Bidadi Ashram too. Swamiji informed us that he was going to Tiruvannamalai the next morning for the Kartika Deepam festival. So he advised us to visit the Bidadi ashram the same night itself. I changed my return plans immediately. To my great surprise, Swamiji invited my sister and me to travel with him in his car to the Ashram. It was wonderful to listen to Swamiji and his great wisdom all through the drive.

Content: At the ashram my sister and I were given accommodation to spend the night. When we reached the Ashram, it was past midnight but Swamiji remembered that I had requested for some time with him to seek his advice on various issues. Despite the late hours he insisted we discuss the matter as he wouldn’t have any free time the next day. Swamiji listened so patiently and compassionately and gave me advice, courage and encouragement. He also told me to come with him to Tiruvannamalai the next day. I initially hesitated due to my return plans for that night. But it must be because of His blessings that I joined Swamiji and his disciples to Tiruvannamalai.

Content: There were millions of devotees crowding the town of Tiruvannamalai due to the festival. While driving through the town Swamiji showed us all his home where he grew up , and the home of his grandmother’s friend who was a great influence in Swamiji’s life. He also showed us the rock on which He had his first spiritual experience. This rock is located at the foothills of the Arunachala Mountain and is set amidst breathtaking surroundings. Swamiji explained to us about Tiruvannalamai Jyothi, which is lit at twilight

Content: time, when the day is ending and the night is beginning, it is at this time that ‘Parvathi’ herself attained enlightenment, said Swamiji.

Content: Swamiji guided us through a spectacular meditation at the time of lighting the Jyothi. All through the trip Swamiji kept me awe inspired with his unending words of wisdom. After the meditations and witnessing the lighting of the Jothi, we had dinner and drove back to Bangalore the same night.

Content: The streets of Tiruvannamalai were by now clogged with millions of devotees. We stopped at Ramana Maharishi’s Ashram situated in the heart of Tiruvannamalai. This ashram too was packed with devotees. When Swamiji got down, many devotees at the Ashram recognized him and started thronging Swamiji to pay their respects. The crowds started to get uncontrollable. Soon Swamiji and all of us left the ashram.

Content: When we reached the town of Tiruvannamalai Swamiji got off the SUV to get a ‘Valampuri’ Conch. Here too the crowds on the street recognized Swamiji and mobbed the SUV. Swamiji, immediately got back into the SUV and instructed Let’s go. But by now the SUV could not move even an inch as the crowds had completely enclosed the SUV, calling out to Swamiji. At this point it got a little scary, for there seemed to be no place to move. The entire town was brimming with devotees due to the festival.

Content: Suddenly out of the blue, someone came and told the crowds to move and the crowd just melted away quietly. The road ahead opened up and we drove away. We reached Bangalore early next morning. I am sure it was all Swamiji’s doing or the Divine Existence taking care of the situation; since he always says leave it to existence.

Content: To be in Swamiji's presence and feel the contagious exuberant energy, to hear his laughter, to feel the love and joy that he exudes, to see people and masses drawn to Swamiji was a divine experience indeed. I shortly left Bangalore, with an eager anticipation and knowledge of Swamiji's upcoming trip to USA the following month, i.e.; January 2004 to Los Angeles, CA.

Content: January 2004

Content: After I got back to Los Angles in January 2004 I started preparing for Swamiji's upcoming visit. With the help of Swamiji's devotees in L.A seminars, public discourse and ASP was organized.

Content: January, 2004, Swamiji in L.A:

Content: Around this time Swamiji told me, Remember these times, it will never come back. How true!! Swamiji was in L.A for one week and I had the great unbelievable privilege of taking care of Swamiji along with just a few other devotees. Now, looking back I feel so blessed. From this trip I only have memories of his ever smiling face, his infectious laughter, the boundless energy while being around him, his love and compassion, his absolute wisdom, an indescribable feeling of being protected by a mother. I would be able to function with just two or three hours of sleep everyday and not feel tired at all.

Content: It was during this stay in L.A, that Swamiji, first called me Mom. At first I was shocked because for me Swamiji was God. Then how could I be his mother I thought. Many such questions surfaced. I expressed these to Swamiji and He said why not? He also said, it is the heart that counts. I was very touched and tears poured down my cheeks. But he had a biological mother too. To this he said I could also be his mom. Now I was overwhelmed. Swamiji always made it a point to call me Mom when I was around.

Content: This really touched me. Swamiji has this ability to make each and everyone feel extremely special. As the time got closer for Swamiji to leave Los Angeles, we pleaded with him to stay a bit longer. He announced that soon in the west Swamiji's Ashram will be in Los Angeles. We were thrilled to hear this. The time I got to spend with Swamiji in Los Angeles, January 2004, will remain such a precious unforgettable learning experience.

Content: January, 2004 San Jose:

Content: During this trip I got the opportunity to go to San Jose to do the very first NSP conducted by Swamiji in the USA. I considered ASP to be a life altering experience, but the NSP was many notches above that. At Energy Darshan we received our Spiritual Names. When my turn came, Swamiji explained the meaning of my spiritual name an officially added Mayi. Mayi means Mother. I was so overwhelmed by this, I just started crying. Many people at this NSP had moving experiences. I met many wonderful people because of Swamiji. Listening to his discourses, being in his presence every day was such a boon.

Content: March, 2004, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma:

Content: When Swamiji was in Oklahoma Mr. Palanipan, who was part of Swamiji's crew called and suggested I visit Oklahoma. I spoke to Ragini in Oklahoma for the first time. Once in Oklahoma I rented a car and reached Ragini's place. But no one was at home. I called Ragini on her cell phone she told me they had taken Swamiji to a devotee's home close by for Paadha Pooja and that she will come to meet me at her house in about 15 to 20 minutes. I was sitting in my car and listening to music when to my surprise I saw Ragini and Swamiji arrive. I wasn't expecting Swamiji to come as he had other house-visits that

Content: morning. My heart started racing on seeing him. I jumped out of the car and paid my respects to Swamiji.

Content: I said in Tamil Swamiji, you need not have come all the way. I would have come to where you are. And

Content: to that, Swamiji replied, Mom you have come all the way, what is wrong in my coming to meet you. I

Content: was very touched. I had no words to say except be awed by his magnanimity.

Content: Here, I once again had the chance to take care of Swamiji. All of us around him experienced high levels

Content: of energy all the time. I accompanied Swamiji, Shiv and Ragini wherever they went. It was a great

Content: opportunity to see Swamiji’s all encompassing compassion and love for all. I felt so blessed to meet many

Content: more wonderful people and attend the NSP again.

Content: In Oklahoma Swamiji agreed to work closely with a group of researchers who studied his mind during

Content: deep meditation. I was lucky to accompany Swamiji and witness the reaction of the wonderstruck doctors

Content: when they saw the readings of the study. Based on these studies a report has been published explaining the

Content: benefits of a meditative state of mind.

Content: Although Swamiji kept calling me his Mom, around him I felt like I was with my mother under her

Content: protection. For Swamiji’s love and compassion is akin to a mother’s love. Around him all worries are

Content: replaced with a feeling of comfort and happiness.

Content: Swamiji, reminds me of Lord Krishna as written in the epics. Playful like a child, always full of laughter

Content: and joy and accepting everything as it is. He rejoices in nature’s wonders without inhibition and at times

Content: squeals with joy at an unexpected beautiful scenery and at other times and giving great discourse or

Content: healing. Swamiji is truly a great sage and seer.

Content: It was soon time for us to say goodbye and I was feeling very sad to leave him. Swamiji said Mom I am always there, feel it and know it. Even today I can feel his presence all the time.

Content: Summer 2004

Content: At the end of his USA tour I went to Chicago to bid Swamiji farewell. People from all over U.S.A came to Chicago to say goodbye to Swamiji.

Content: With Swamiji's blessings, my life had been transformed incredibly. I started looking at life with tremendous gratitude and respect.

Content: Fall, 2004:

Content: Swamiji was in the US to start his tour. He conducted the very successful Shakti Spurna Program in LA. He stayed for a very short time in L.A. Once again I had the opportunity to spend time and learn a lot from Swamiji. I was touched and impressed by Swamiji's urgency to spread his message and to help humanity at large. Swamiji worked incessantly day and night to do this. The Fall 2004 tour witnessed many more people being helped by his teachings and techniques. His followers in the USA were growing in leaps and bounds.

Content: January, 2005:

Content: I visited Swamiji's Dhyanapeetam Ashram in Bidadi, Bangalore where he was conducting the Shiva Sutra discourses. I heard many amazing experiences from people attending these lectures. Here I met Ragini,

Content: Shiv and their daughters and Ragini's mother. They had moved to Bidadi ashram and become ashamites. It was wonderful to see them so happy and peaceful.

Content: Summer, 2005

Content: While I was in India around this time, I met Swamiji for a few hours while he was transiting through Madras. From here. I accompanied Swamiji to his principle disciple's home in Madras. A huge crowd had gathered to get Swamiji's blessings. I was shocked to see the huge crowd because there wasn't any formal announcement of his visit. These people had gathered through just word of mouth.

Content: Swamiji subsequently came to Los Angeles once again in July 2005. During this tour there were many programs that Swamiji conducted and once again many thousands of lives were touched by his transformational message and techniques.

Content: September 2005

Content: The highlight of the year 2005 was Swamiji inaugurating his Ashram in Los Angeles. The vision he had in 2004 was coming true. What a joyful occasion it was. All Ashramites, are wonderful people. They are dedicated to Swamiji and his teachings and always welcome everyone with open arms and hearts.

Content: After the ashram opened I attended the spectacular Arogya Spurana Program (Health and Wellness Program) conducted for the first time ever by Swamiji.

Content: I am always grateful to Swamiji, the Divine Existence/Prapancham/Universal Life source Energy for the opportunity to meet and receive His Blessings, healing and life transforming teachings. I am

Content: also grateful that I was able to spend time with an Enlightened Master during this lifetime. His smiling face, contagious laughter, mothers love, compassion, healing touch, wisdom, and the playfulness of a child are all what Swamiji is.

Content: Swamiji always blesses “Anandamaaga Irungal,” (in Tamil means ‘Be Blissful’. Swamiji is always blissful and being around Swamiji one can’t help but catch this infectious blissfulness. I used to ask myself, what have I done to deserve this? But now I do not ask this question anymore. I am just grateful. My life has been transformed due to Swamiji.

Content: My dearest Swamiji, my heartfelt gratefulness to you for all the life transforming teachings, compassion, love, Healing and your presence in my life. I am Eternally grateful to you.

Content: When

Content: GOD

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Content: Ma Nithya Dayananda Mayi,

Content: Ma Nithya Dayananda Mayi

Content: "Drsaa draagheeyasyaa dara-dalita-neelotpala-ruchaa daveeyaamsam deenam snapaya krpayaa maamapisive;

Content: Anena-ayam dhanyo bhavanti na cha te haanir-iyataa Vane vaa harmye vaa samakara nipato himakarakah"

Content: Siva,, bathe even me with Your grace, who is helpless and standing at a great distance, with the far-reaching glance

Content: of Your soothing blue eyes, beautiful as a half-blossomed blue lily. You stand to lose nothing while I will be blessed

Content: and enabled to achieve the meaning of life. The range of the benevolent look of Yours is long enough to embrace

Content: everything and every one in this wide world. It is as soothing as the cool moonlight falls equally on a forest and a

Content: beautiful mansion.

Content: One day Maatrusri (now Ma Nithya Medhananda Mayi) came running with bubbling excitement on her

Content: face. We were in the hotel corridor, and had just arrived after finishing our lunch. She just hugged both

Content: Ma Sachitananda and myself at once and exclaimed, hey I have some wonderful news for you. She was

Content: laughing aloud with ecstasy and excitement. Swamiji asked all the morns to write their reminiscences and

Content: he just spoke about the importance of this relationship. Wow!! Tell us more, we screamed. Then Maatrusri

Content: led us into Swamiji's room as he called us all for a meeting.

Content: Those were the days when a few to-be-LA ashramites were staying in a hotel while scouting for an ashram

Content: location. When we went in to meet Swamiji, he too was in a great excited mood. Swamiji explained to all

Content: of us the importance of the relationship between a mother and son. There are five bhaavas through which

Content: a disciple relates to a Master, daasa bhaava is fear related, so it is based on Swadhistana chakra, looking

Content: upon the master as a mother or father and also looking upon Him as Master, is attention based so it is

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Content: related to Anahata chakra. And Madhura Bhaava is looking upon the Master as beloved and is related to root center.

Content: Vaatsalya Bhaava is the only relationship based on ‘giving’ and is related to sahasrara chakra. He further explained how this intimate, beautiful relationship can be used as a tool for transformation towards enlightenment.

Content: I am like a frog in the well trying to write about The Ocean of Compassion. I can try to describe his love or his endless patience in molding us into better beings, or about the transformation he has brought in millions of lives around the globe. But all my efforts will be like trying to explain the sweetness of honey, which is best understood only if one can taste it. In my blissful years with Him I learned so many things and all my experiences are difficult to put into words. How can I express my gratitude to Swamiji for giving me this opportunity?

Content: My relationship with Swamiji did not start as a mother and son. Before I met Swamiji (to which I would love refer as BN, Before Nithyananda), I was emotionally imbalanced. I sat and cried at all imaginary problems that my mind used to create. But the real joy and peace that I felt after I met Swamiji (read as AN, after Nithyananda) is indescribable. It can only be experienced by the grace of the Master. I am continuously learning how to live life to the fullest. Life After-Nithyananda is a like a beautiful song, it is an eternal celebration.

Content: A person goes to Ramanuja; a great enlightened master and asked him that he wanted to experience divine love. Then Ramanuja asked him, did you ever fall in love with any body. The person was shocked and

Content: asked I came to learn about God and you are teaching all this? I am a pure bramhachari. Ramanuja suggests to him to go fall in love with some one and come back. The person is further shocked, you are teaching me nonsense, Then Ramanuja says, Fool if you cannot fall in love with someone whom you see every day, how can you fall in God, whom you have never seen or never heard?

Content: Swamiji says unless you know the depth of your personality you cannot fall in love. As long as we think we are the body, we don't have depth in our personality. We see the other person also as just a body. Then we start measuring the other person. Only when you really see others and yourself as an embodiment of soul, you rise in love. If you cannot love your spouse or family member, you cannot love God.

Content: First meeting with Swamiji:

Content: As a teenager I fell in love with my husband Gopal (now Sri Nithya Bhaktananda). I was ready to do anything for him. But after few years of marriage, as I now realized due to Swamiji's teachings, I was not really rising in love with him. I loved only my expectations of him. I understood now that I lacked the depth in my personality. I was very fortunate though that, my husband always accepted my faults, accepted my mistakes, he accepted me as I was. But I was genuinely missing some thing in life. I had everything in life, a loving husband, beautiful son, friends and relatives, everything that worldly life could offer.

Content: Fortunately, I read a book on meditation that I borrowed from the library. The book helped me realize there is something more to this life than the worldly objects and desires. The two years before I met Swamiji I was very depressed. I started searching for fulfillment in life. Gopal always supported me. I started reading few books about few Masters and met one or two masters, but I was still the same person.

Content: Swamiji visited San Jose, Bay area in CA, in August 2003 for the first time. Our friend Mukku informed Gopal about Swamiji, a master who heals and teaches meditation too. Gopal, I don't have time for all these things now and didn't go to visit him. Maybe we were not yet ready for a Master.

Content: Swamiji says two things are necessary to experience a master. First is the depth of personality and second a living master should happen at that time as well. When the personality deepens, but a Master is not there then a burning restlessness or seeking happens. We no longer relate with others and a state of inner-vacuum and loneliness is experienced. This is when a Master appears in our life. Existence takes care that Master will happen in our life.

Content: Swamiji made his second trip to San Jose in Feb 2004 and once again Mukku informed Gopal about his visit. And again Gopal had no plans of meeting Swamiji. But early next morning Gopal got a vision. An orange robed Guru was calling out to him. Wake up, wake up how long will you sleep? Gopal then fell at his feet and wept, when the guru lifted him up and said Come, here is your place and hugged him.

Content: Later that morning Gopal told me about this dream and I suggested he should go and attend Swamiji's discourse. In the evening while he was going for the discourse he asked me to come along. We went to Holiday Inn Express in Fremont, to attend the discourse. Swamiji had not yet arrived by then. Meanwhile I was reading his biography at the Galleria located at the back of the hall. Shortly Swamiji entered the hall with folded hands and a beautiful smile on his face. The way He spoke shook the very roots of my thinking pattern. The discourse was followed by a meditation. That day we did Dukkaharana meditation. During that the last 10 minutes of the meditation I experienced tremendous peace. Gopal and I took

Content: Swamiji blessings and left. The moment I sat in the car I started crying. Gopal could not understand. The crying continued for a long time.

Content: The following day I was very restless and had a few more tearful outbursts. At the next day’s discourse I was eagerly waiting for Swamiji to arrive. I can never forget that day. The moment I saw Swamiji, there was my mood lightened and I felt very peaceful. I was surprised at this experience. After the discourse we went for Darshan. I told Swamiji about my emotionally imbalanced state. He held my hands in his and asked whether I had registered for the next day’s meditation camp- the Ananda Spurana Program (ASP): Swamiji was going to conduct it Himself. I mentioned I was already practicing a meditation technique that I learned just a month ago under another guru. At that time I was wearing a ring with the guru’s picture in it. Swamiji laughed and said All the Masters have the same energy Ma, come for the ASP, it is good for you, all along holding my hands and playing with the ring on my finger. Gopal then mentioned to Swamiji about his dream and asked him, Was that you? Swamiji just laughed after he heard it. Sometime later during the NSP in Oklahoma Swamiji referred to Gopal’s dream and explained how sometimes the divine inspires disciples in various ways.

Content: I wanted to meet Swamiji again, but could not make up my mind about attending the meditation camp. On Saturday morning I was torn between to go or not to go. Was I cheating my current guru by going to another meditation camp? I meditate one hour everyday,so was another meditation technique required? What do I do? But this Swamiji is so enchanting! Atleast I will see him once again if I go. It was 6.30 am and Gopal was happily getting ready to go. Unable to decide whether to go or not to go, I decided to toss a coin. Gopal was enjoying my funny immature behavior. As he watched me toss the coin, he said I

Content: couldn’t decide in the next five minutes he would leave without me. The toss indicated I should go for the meditation camp. But I still wasn’t sure so I flipped the coin again. Now it indicated I shouldn’t go. Then Gopal suggested Toss it one last time and do what ever it says. Ok, now the toss said go. Looking back that was the best divine help that I ever got.

Content: On the first day of mediation camp we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Many times during the ASP my eyes were glued onto Swamiji’s beautiful form. I thought this is how Lord Krishna must have looked too. At the end of day-one when we got into the car to go home, we both uttered the same time words at the same time. We said this has been the best day of our lives ever. And Gopal added, He is my Guru, I found my Guru. We enjoyed on the second day of ASP also. We ended up registering for the NSP that was scheduled for the following weekend. I could never forget the week after the ASP. I was literally floating with joy.

Content: The following week, since Gopal was traveling I attended every discourse that Swamiji was giving at different places in San Jose. During one of the discourses Swamiji mentioned how we could enjoy the work we do if we choose our work according to our intrinsic nature. He said he can advise and guide a few of us so that we are helped in our careers. When I went to take his blessings at the end of the discourse I asked Swamiji which field he advises me to work in, and Swamiji said cooking would suit me, but he advised me to continue what I was doing for a while. Because he said cooking I contemplated about opening a restaurant. But I couldn’t imagine myself managing it. But now I understand how I ended up cooking in the LA ashram kitchen!

Content: Nithyananda Oh Nithyananda !

Content: Nee Naamamenta Maduramayya Nithyananda

Content: Nee Roopamenta Maduramayya Nithyananda

Content: Enta Manchi Vaadivayya Nithyananda

Content: Maa Bangaru Samivayya Nithyananda

Content: Nithyananda! Your name is very sweet; your form is very sweet. Nithyananda! You are very good, You

Content: stole our hearts. We cannot express how sweet You are. You are our precious and dear Swami.

Content: First NSP:

Content: This was the first ever NSP that Swamiji conducted in the USA. None of us had any idea about the

Content: program. When Swamiji explained to us clearly about how the fear of death impacts our everyday-life and

Content: guided us through powerful meditations we experienced NSP, far beyond our imaginations.

Content: During energy darshan, I took a copy of Swamiji's book Formless in Form for him to autograph. He

Content: mentioned it was the first autograph he was signing and my name was the first one he was writing for this

Content: purpose.

Content: The day after NSP Gopal and I signed up for the Healers Initiation program after which Swamiji left San

Content: Jose. After coming home we terribly missed Swamiji and the thought of not seeing him again in near

Content: future depressed us. We tried to keep ourselves occupied with various things but it didn't help. We

Content: couldn't sleep well at night thinking of him. And one day I suggested, Why don't we go to the Ashram in

Content: India and stay there? Gopal said, What will I do at the ashram? If I can be of any use I can go. We

Content: started talking about how interesting it would be if we could stay at the Ashram in India. But we also

Content: realized we have a son to take care of. Gopal decided once Santosh (our son) finished his education we would go to India. But I was getting a little restless and wanted to go to India right away. I didn't know where the ashram was nor what I could do there? Just this one strong feeling of seeing Swamiji. We decided we would take turns to go to the ashram. Each of us could spend six months in the ashram and while the other would stay in US to work and take care of Santosh and his education. We were quite firm about our decision. We were very happy and slept very peacefully that night.

Content: The next day Gopal sent a mail to Swamiji about our decision. We didn't get any reply. But two days later Tiwariji (Sri Nithya Atma Manishananda), who accompanied Swamiji on the tour called Gopal. He said, Swamiji has accepted your request to come to the ashram, but He will let you know later when you should come. We were on cloud nine. We were eagerly waiting to hear from Swamiji. After two weeks I decided to ask Swamiji directly when I went to Oklahoma, where he was conducting a workshop. I asked Swamiji about when we could come to the ashram. He simply nodded and told us to wait.

Content: Another two weeks had passed and I was still counting days. Again I followed Swamiji to Columbus (Ohio). Swamiji just laughed at me. Here I repeated the ASP and learned so many things and thoroughly enjoyed Swamiji's presence.

Content: As Spiritual Healers initiated by Swamiji, Gopal and I had some wonderful healing experiences. One such incident was when Gopal started his new job in San Jose. On his third day at work he had a migraine-attack. He had a hole in his left Retina due to which he often suffered from migraine attacks. He couldn't come home and take rest due to an assignment he had to complete that day. The pain was so bad, he

Content: couldn't see anything on the computer screen. For a while he sat in the lunch room holding onto Swamiji's

Content: mala and mentally sought his advice. He clearly heard Swamiji say, I will take care, don't worry. Due to

Content: the intense pain he forgot he could do self-healing for himself. So he just had a glass of water and

Content: immersed himself in work. He remembered about the attack only after he came home. I was shocked as he

Content: usually took atleast two days to recover when he had these attacks. These migraine attacks never came

Content: back again.

Content: Soon Swamiji left for India and I waited everyday to get some news about going to the ashram. That's

Content: when I realized I had to learn about waiting as well.

Content: Okkasaari Ninnu Chusina Bratuku Dhanyamayya

Content: Okeokka Nee Naamao Maduramainadayya

Content: Okkasaari Vinte Caalu Nee Matalu

Content: Okkararigaa Bratuku Maarunayya

Content: Nuvvu Okkade Maaku Chalunayya

Content: Life is blessed if we look at You once. Your name is the only one name that is sweetest. If we listen to

Content: Your words only once, that's enough, life changes at once into quantum leap.You are the only one that we

Content: like. You alone are enough for us.

Content: First Himalayan trip.

Content: The moment I heard about the Himalayan trip I decided I had to go. Two weeks after the Himalayan trip

Content: Swamiji was visiting Hyderabad (my home town) for the first time to conduct ASP. I wasn't sure if I

Content: could get such along break from work. But I decided I would quit my job if required. To my delight and surprise my manager agreed to give me a months time-off. So now I would be able see Swamiji in Hyderabad also. I traveled to Delhi where the Himalayan Yatra was starting. Here I joined Swamiji and the rest of the devotees in June 2004.

Content: We had a meeting with Swamiji at New Delhi on June 14th evening. Swami briefed us about the arrangements and we started on our journey early morning on 15th. We were a small group then and traveled in 3 buses. Today close to 10 buses full of devotees travel to the Himalayas with Swamiji.

Content: On the first day as we were getting our luggage into the bus, Swamiji noticed one participant struggle with many huge bags. Swamiji, who was watching the proceedings laughed and commented too much luggage to take care of your comforts, can easily make you miss the Master. If we listen carefully, each word that Swamiji says is a maha vakya (profound statement) and there is a message in it for us.

Content: Himalaya Sanchari Ganga Teera Vihaari

Content: Moohana Roopa Muraari Nithyananda Bhakta Muraari

Content: He roams Around in Himalayas; He loves to be on the banks of Ganga

Content: He has the Enchanting form; Nithyananda is the soul of His devotees.

Content: The rebel who became a devotee:

Content: In this group of travelers were a few who could not cope with the rigors of the journey. They were very uncomfortable with the simple life that we all vowed to live for the 15 days we were in Himalayas. Some

Content: of them were very vocal with their comments and stood out as sore thumbs with their tantrums and nasty comments. Recently I saw one of them at the Los Angeles ashram when he came to attend a program with Swamiji. The transformation I noticed in this person was unbelievable. Swamiji called him at the end the program and took off the garland he was wearing and put it around the neck of this devotee. Swamiji's compassionate approach was amazing.

Content: Maaya Mooha Neevaari Bhakta Hrudaya Sanchaari

Content: Moohana Roopa Muraari Nithyananda Bhakta Muraari

Content: He is the destroyer of Maya and Mooha; He lives in the hearts of His devotees. He has the Enchanting form, Nithyananda is the soul His devotees.

Content: The wonderful experience we had on the banks of the Ganges is unforgettable. We danced to kirtans, held hands, laughed and dipped into the Ganges as she surrounded us. Swamiji was cracking jokes and the entire group was in total joy. Suddenly we noticed the flow of the water increased tremendously. It felt as though Ganga was enjoying Swamiji's presence and was dancing and celebrating too.

Content: After bathing in the Ganges, Swamiji prepared for Homa- Shraadha, where we were able to give tharpanam to our dear departed relatives. After this Swami explained the three things that we would experience during the yatra—Mantram, Yantram, Tantram. Mantram is the Gayatri, Yantram is Yagnopaveetam and Tantram is the Himalayas and the Ganges. And then Swami started chanting the Shanti Mantra- Purnamada Purnamidam.

Content: He explained the importance of performing the Shraadha (prayer for the departed souls) at Rishikesh. Contrary to traditional beliefs, Swamiji said that both women and men could perform this ceremony. I did Shradha for my mother and mother-in-law. Since my siblings and I were very young when my mother passed away it had always bothered me that we never performed the Shradha for her. And so that day, on the banks of the holy river, I couldn’t believe my fortune, that I was actually realizing my dream in the presence and guidance of Swamiji. Tears rolled down my cheeks as I offered Shradha for my mother. How can I pay my gratitude to you Swamiji?

Content: Velaleeni Varaalenno Icchavayya

Content: Maaku Enkeemi Kaavaalayya

Content: Neevu Eduta Leedani Baada Leedayya

Content: Neevu Maaku Ecchina Bhoda Chaalunayya

Content: Maa Manasuna Amritam Nimpaavayya

Content: Nee Bhoda Okkate Maaku Chalunayya.

Content: You gave us countless boons; we cannot find the value for them. What else we want? We are not sad that You are not in front of us, Your teaching is enough. With that You filled our hearts with Amrita. Your teaching alone is enough for us.

Content: After offering Shraadha, Swamiji guided the whole group through a prayer where we paid our gratitude to five groups of existence around us: Trees, Animals, Parents, Gods and Guru.

Content: We then got ready for a very special ceremony. This ceremony had such a profound impact on me. Swami called each one of us and put the Yagnopaveetam (sacred white thread) around us and draped us

Content: with an ochre colored shawl (like the one Swami wears). The sacred thread was to remind us to live the simple life of an ascetic while in the Himalayas, while the ochre shawl which we wore everyday all through the journey helped us identify the group members in packed places and narrow streets. It was also very effective in protecting us from cold as well as the heat. Swamiji then initiated us into the gayatri mantra, and we all took the sankalpa (an oath) to study the Upanishad (scriptures).

Content: Preema Hrudaya Sanchaari Bididi Puri Neevaasi

Content: Moohana Roopa Muraari Nithyananda Bhakta Muraari

Content: He flows with love, He lives in Bidadi.

Content: He has the Enchanting form; Nithyananda is the soul of his devotees.

Content: Gomukh: a miraculous escape

Content: We started for Gomukh in the early hours of 18th (May). Most people believe that Gomukh is the birthplace of Ganga even though the exact origin of Ganga is still not established. With a lot of anticipation, the group set out for the trip. Some who were unfit for this arduous trip stayed back.

Content: It was the most adventurous part of this entire trip. We had a seven hour trek each way. There was a lot of excitement about this trip. I was riding a pony and just as I got comfortable, the man leading the pony spurred the pony into a run. When the pony started trotting I lost my balance and slipped and fell on the ground with a thud. Just then the pony started running crazily. This would have been ok, but for the fact that my feet were still stuck in the stirrups hanging on either side of the pony. Now the pony was dragging me on my back for quite some distance. Then miraculously, the pony-man, putting himself in harms way

Content: stopped the pony with great force and courage. My legs were finally released from the stirrups, but in the process the pony-man got thrown off by the pony. For a moment I thought we had lost him as he fell into the deep valley. Luckily, he managed to hold on to a root and came up. The interesting thing is even though I fell down and was dragged on my back, there was not a scratch on my body. And the pony-man was unharmed too. This is nothing short of a miracle and the fact that we were under complete protection of Swamiji's grace.

Content: We continued the rest of the journey and reached Gomukh where we had Gomukh darshan. It was drizzling and Swamiji performed the aarti to Ganga here.

Content: The return journey:

Content: Our return journey from Gomukh was as exciting and adventurous as the onwards journey. It still remains an unforgettable experience to everyone on the trip. We started back at around 5pm on our ponies. For two hours or so the journey was very uncomfortable for me as I couldn't balance well on the pony. It was pitch dark after 8 pm and we were traveling in the dark for almost three hours with out a ray of light to guide us. The path was very narrow with steep hills on one side and deep ravine on the other. The path was not paved in most areas and had uneven rocks and stones on which the ponies had to carefully balance and walk. Some times we had to travel through water. On top of this Lalu the pony-boy mentioned that he has never traveled in this kind of darkness before. We were no longer in a single group because each pony was moving at a different pace. I had no clue in which direction we were going, with legs scarping against the sides of the rocky Mountains. But the courage and calmness with which I was

Content: dealing with the situation surprised me as I never considered myself a courageous person. I was sure by now that what ever happens, will happen only through Swamiji's wish. The Gomukh trip practically trained me to face any thing in life with courage. It was an extended Swadhistana Chakra meditation I thought later.

Content: Two days later on 21st from Gouri Kund we traveled to Kedarnath. Here too we couldn’t go by bus or any other vehicle. Most of us went on horse-backs. We enjoyed the beautiful trek to Kedarinath temple and reached the temple by afternoon. The presiding deity here is Lord Siva and is one of the 12 jyothirlingas.

Content: Once we reached the temple we got into the queue to get darshan. We sang kirtans for hours as we waited in line. Very soon the line got too crowded and people were pushing and pulling each other. It was very difficult to move but we managed to get inside the temple. To our pleasant surprise we saw Swami seated by the Siva lingam in the main sanctum and he was blessing each one in our group as we passed by. I felt I had the dharshan of a living Lord Shiva as Swamiji sat there looking so vibrant with divine radiance. It was an awesome feeling. I heard Swamiji calling out to me and I in turn called out to Nacha too and we both pushed our way to the main sanctum where Swamiji had one hand on the Shiv linga and with the other he smeared our forehead with an energized paste. I was sure we received the blessings from Lord Shiva Himself. There were others in the group who didn’t follow us and got distracted by Pandas (priests) who promised them various boons if they paid them a sum of money. In the bargain they missed blessings from Lord Shiva I thought.

Content: We spent that night in Gupt Kasi and proceeded to Badrinath the next day morning. We had a long and enjoyable bus journey from Gupt Kasi via Josh Matt. It was 7 pm when we reached Badrinath. The minute

Content: we reached Badri we saw Swamiji racing towards the temple. We started running to keep pace with Swamiji. The temple was gorgeous. We had a wonderful and very quick darshan. On arriving at the hotel Swamiji announced that there would be no Upanishad class that night, and advised us to not to roam around anywhere. He said we would have the next discourse early next morning.

Content: Maanavata Udari Mookasha Siddhi Prasaadi

Content: Moohana Roopa Muraari Nithyananda Bhakta Muraari

Content: He uplifts Humanity, He gives liberation

Content: He has the Enchanting form; Nithyananda is the soul of his devotees.

Content: The Himalayan experience:

Content: We woke up early and got ready. Nacha and Robin were my roommates all through the trip. Many people including Nacha wanted to visit Badri the next day to perform abhishekams and other rituals. But the three of us decided to abide by Swami’s instructions and wait for him.

Content: All three of us had a sore throat and cold and wanted to have healing session before we went to the class. Before we started healing each other we decided to meditate for 5 minutes. The three of us sat on the bed with interlocked hands and meditated together. As we started the Ananda Ganda meditation I felt a surge of energy passing through me and felt very light. I can’t recollect for how long we stayed like that but brought myself back to the present when I heard Robin Chanting Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.

Content: As we opened our eyes we realized we all had experienced something wonderful. We hugged as a group with joy and decided to let Swamiji know about our experience. Swamiji arrived at the hall and noticed

Content: that some of the group members were missing. He expressed his concern about the people who had disobeyed him and left the premises. On concluding the discourse Swamiji blessed the group in the hall with great intensity. He invoked all the Gods, Rishis, and Sages and blessed us with good fortune. His expression and manner brought the entire group to a deep devotional state. Then Nacha raised her hand and expressed to Swamiji that she wanted to share an experience. She started narrating about what happened to us that morning, but broke down crying. Both Robin and I tried to continue but we also couldn't continue as we both were crying too!! Swamiji waited patiently while we completed our story.

Content: As Swamiji started walking out of the room, one by one the group started prostrating themselves at his feet with so much devotion. The group energy was high, exuding love and devotion for Swamiji. Then lifting up one of devotee Swamiji announced, Lock the door we will have Energy Darshan. Overcome with joy we all stood in a line for our turn. The experience cannot be described in words; it was much more than a spontaneous energy darshan. The love and energy that we received from Swamiji that day was unparalleled. We later resumed the class on Upanishad and Swamiji guided us through a meditation. When we opened our eyes after the meditation, we saw Swamiji sitting with hundreds of Rudhraksha malas on Him!! The whole room burst out in exclamation. He gifted each of us with a mala as a remembrance of the Himalayan Experience.

Content: Aabhista Vara Prassadi Aahankaara Neevaari

Content: Moohana Roopa Muraari Nithyananda Bhakta Muraari

Content: He fulfills our wishes, He removes our ego

Content: He has the Enchanting form; Nithyananda is the soul of his devotees.

Content: After the Himalayan trip I went to Hyderabad to visit my father and waited till Swamiji's visited to the city.

Content: Accompanied by my relatives I went for Swamiji's discourse. Here I met Sri Nithya Atmananda who was multi-tasking with the various arrangements. He requested me to volunteer with Ananda Galleria that was set up. At the end of the discourse when Swamiji came out of the hall to leave I went and prostrated to Swamiji. Swamiji gave me a hug and said, When did you come again? Why didn't you come to the ashram ma? He pointed at Ma Sachitananda, who was now wearing a ochre stole around her neck and said, She ( Ma Sachit) took Sanyas deeksha. I asked Swamiji if I should repeat the ASP or Volunteer . Swamiji asked me to volunteer which I thoroughly enjoyed. I had my flight back to USA on the second day of the ASP. Before leaving I took the blessings from Swamiji and asked again when my husband and I could move to the ashram permanently. Swamiji again nodded and asked us to wait.

Content: San Jose Visit

Content: Swamiji visited San Jose in August that year and conducted the one day Shakti Spurana Program (SSP). I was very keen on performing the paada puja for him but since it was a very short trip this wasn't possible. However when we invited Swamiji, he assured us of coming home during his next visit. He promised us his energy would be with us in our house. Since I was a little disappointed, he asked us to come to the airport to see him off and spend a little more time with him. The love he showered on us was much more than what I could have asked through the Paada Puja. This was another example of the different ways the Divine works, giving us the best of his love in every situation.

Content: Siddhachalam: first ever Teachers Training in USA:

Content: Gopal and I attended the first teacher training in Siddhachalam in New Jersey in August 2004.

Content: As I was running out of vacation time, and I was dreading approaching my boss for more leave. I could not imagine myself not going to the teacher training. In the meantime I registered for the program and started the preparatory work required for the training. Finally I cooked up some lame excuse so that I could get some time off.

Content: By noon of Sep’07 2004, we reached Siddhachalam located in Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. Siddhachalam is a beautiful Jain temple complex with peacocks and deers roaming freely on the rolling lawns. By evening around 45 of us gathered in the main hall waiting for Swamiji to arrive.

Content: Most of the participants were seriously reading the prescribed book. Looking at people preparing so intensely a sudden thought gripped my mind. I was scared I might not perform well in the training and wanted to return home. I asked Gopal to drop me at the airport so that I could go back. In his usual manner, he told me to keep quiet. Before I could argue any further with him Swamiji entered the hall. He looked so vibrant. Almost all my fears seemed to disappear in an instant. He greeted all of us and started with the introductory session. The topic he spoke on was: You Can Do It! How appropriate I thought. Swamiji’s talk boosted my confidence tremendously that day. Swamiji asked which participant wanted to present the next day. To my utter surprise I was one amongst the few to raise my hand. After leaving the hall the fear began to rise once again, but I recollected Swamiji’s words that evening and started preparing for the presentation.

Content: Next morning we were informed we could join Swamiji on a early morning walk. Many joined him for the walk, some still half asleep. I was not confident about my preparation for the presentation that day so I stayed back and continued preparing, not realizing what I was missing. Gopal came running back and asked what are you doing here? Come and join the group. We are having so much fun there. When I joined the group Swamiji was speaking on the role and importance of acharyas.

Content: I was the first to give the presentation. After I finished Swamiji was very pleased and said, You caught the thread Ma. For the rest of the day the others took turns and delivered their presentations. Swamiji patiently guided and helped each one improve their performance., The presentation continued from morning till evening everyday. Each day Swamiji would join each batch silently and listen for some time and correct each one of us. In the evenings he would clarify our doubts and explain concepts we were having difficulty understanding. This training transformed me tremendously without my knowledge.

Content: Swamiji on a bonnet:

Content: The next day morning, we waited to join him for a walk.. But instead Swamiji came and climbed on to the bonnet of one of the cars and started chatting with all of us jovially. His casual attitude took me by surprise. We all waited for him to start the discourse for the day but instead he asked if anyone could chant the Vishnu Sahasranama. I immediately started chanting like a bullet-train to show-off my knowledge of the sahasranama. During this high-speed recitation, Swamiji stopped me and advised me to chant slowly. After I finished the chanting we all started singing kirtans. By now Swamiji joined us on the lush green gardens. After the kirtans we entered a beautiful silence in his presence.

Content: The swing and the bhajans:

Content: The following day Swamiji announced a break during our presentations. We gathered around him and started singing Krishna bhajans. Some of us collected peacock feathers and presented them to Swamiji who was sitting on a swing. We were now singing and dancing around him.. The mood and energy of the group was so high.

Content: Talapaga Petti Neevu Krishna Roopamuto Maa Manasalanni Neevu Dochitivayya Aa Krishunudi Raasa Leela Minchi Neevu Mammalni Nithyalilalo Munchitivayya Dwapara Krishnudini Meemu Chudaleedu Nee Krishna Roopamu Maaku Madhuramayya (Siddhachalam)

Content: When You put the turban, You form is that of Krishna. You stole all our hearts. But Your divine Nithya leelas are such that they are beyond our imagination and exceeded our bliss more than Krishna's Rasa Leela. We have not seen Dwapara Krishna, but Your Krishna's form is very sweet for us.

Content: Later that evening while we were walking towards the Jain temple Swamiji started calling me Talli (In Telugu talli means mother). I could not understand its significance then. Instead I started singing a Telugu song.

Content: ABCD by nature

Content: The next day while our sessions were in progress Swamiji announced it was time for some entertainment. He suggested each group present a skit based on stories related to Life Bliss Program (LBP) and gave us

Content: 10 minutes to prepare and present. My group decided to present the concept why you need to do LBP and was titled ABCD- American Born Confused Desi (Indian). The story was that of the plight of Indian parents who lacked cultural knowledge, and how LBP would help them. One by one all the groups started presenting their skits. By the time our turn came I went completely blank. So I just started blabbering what ever came to my mind. But once I started I didn't stop. Each drama turned out so well. I understood then that when divine wills, spontaneity and creativity just flows.

Content: Time Shaft theory

Content: Some of the participants brought a big orange beach ball. To our amazement, Swamiji used it as His foot rest all through the program, whether we were inside the hall or outside under the open tent. This orange beach ball became our Mascot for the program.

Content: Swamiji explained in detail for the first time the Time Shaft theory. The main message of the time shaft theory was to live in the present moment. While explaining the theory Swamiji would stand by the writing board or some times sit on the hand- rest of the love seat, with His legs resting on the orange ball. On one hand Swamiji was explaining how important it is to be in the present moment, and all I was seeing was a vision of Lord Krishna in front of me. My mind was not focusing on the concept that Swamiji was explaining; instead it was seeing what it wanted to see. That is the reason why He explains to us the same theory again and again in different ways.

Content: Great Energy Darshan:

Content: During this teachers training all our activities were based around the main concept of Chakras. At the conclusion of the program Swamiji gave us an energy darshan and a powerful blessings saying here by I declare you all as graduates of the Acharya Training program. Let you all spread this joy, this eternal message. I bless you with My full heart in the name of all the great Masters, who keep this light of enlightenment alive on the planet earth, I promise in their name and their energy, let it happen to you all. What ever has happened in this body, let it happen to you, let you radiate the bliss. Let you experience the bliss, let you radiate the bliss. These lines stirred something deep in us and motivate us even today.

Content: The next day the mood was a little low as we were all going back home. Reading this mood, while leaving the hall Swamiji turned back and said laughingly, don't worry half the people in this batch are going to be with me.

Content: This was the first time we spent so much time with Swamiji. Since then for many of us there has been no other life except thinking about Swamiji and our work as acharyas.

Content: The mascot takes a flight:

Content: Since we had great memories associated with ball we carried it back with us. Mukku, Gopal and I traveled back together. At the airport a lady in uniform stopped us, looking at the ball she said you cannot carry this as it may be hazardous. We told her we could deflate it and proceeded towards check-in. We were stopped 4 times before we reached the check-in counter. Here we were received with a pleasant smile and

Content: were once again asked about that ball. He asked why we were carrying that ball. When we explained how precious it was to us, he was not only very interested in knowing more about Swamiji, but also took great care of the ball. He then provided a bag for it and said he would ensure it travels back safely to San Jose with us. We were thrilled to collect it safely at the baggage claim in San Jose. It is practically impossible to travel with an inflated beach ball on any flight today. But it happened .Who can resist Swami’s energy? That ball was the footrest for Swami for eight days. It safely rests encased in one of the devotee’s studio in San Jose.

Content: I will guide you when the time comes.

Content: Gopal attended Swamiji’s 28th birthday celebrations at Bidadi Ashram. This is when Swamiji informed Gopal that we were going to be ashramites, but at the Los Angeles ashram when it opens. During this time it was also decided that our son Santosh will be brought up under Swamiji’s direct guidance at the Bidadi Ashram in India. When Gopal called me from India and gave me this news, I was at first shocked but within a few minutes crystal clear clarity dawned upon me. I instantly knew we couldn’t have given Santosh a better life than this. I felt so happy for Santosh. He is truly a very blessed kid. My mind went back to some time back when I had sought Swamiji’s advice on Santosh’s education. Swamiji said He is young now, but when the time comes I will guide you. Now Swamiji really did guide Santosh and gave him the ultimate blessings. What else does one need than to be guided by the Master Himself from such a young age?

Content: Eela Ninnu Pogidenu Nithyananda

Content: Maakemi Telusunayya Nithyananda

Content: Viluvaleeni Bratukunuu Batukutunna

Content: Mammu Uddharimpa Neevu Dayachesavaya

Content: Taniviteerani Aanandam Ponchiecchina

Content: Nee Prema Okkate Maaku Chaalunayya

Content: How can we praise you Nithyananda? We don’t know anything. Before we met You we were living value less life. You came to uplift all of us. We are receiving endless happiness. Your love alone is enough for us.

Content: Swamijis’ 2005 first USA tour:

Content: During Swamiji’s USA visit in 2005, all acharyas from San Jose drove to LAX airport to receive him. After we received Swamiji, we were all invited for lunch with Swamiji at a close devotee’s house. During this time I saw how easily he relates with people. He was cracking jokes at Ma Sachitananda’s expense. After a while he asked for his lap top, and we all crowded around him to see images of some of the recent programs at the Indian Ashram.

Content: That evening we all visited Swami Vivekananda’s house in Los Angeeles. Swamiji seemed to be very familiar with the place although he was visiting it for the first time. Only someone who lived in that place could speak of it with such great familiarity and clarity. This thought made me wonder of the possibilities of it being true.

Content: 148

Content: San Jose trip and visit to our house

Content: From LA Swamiji visited San Jose

Content: Swamiji was scheduled to come to our house after the public discourse. I made all the arrangements that

Content: I could think of. After the discourse, He called Gopal and wanted to come straight home. I was getting

Content: ready to go ahead with Ma Ananda Snehanayi to prepare for a traditional welcome. Just as I was

Content: preparing to leave, Swamiji called for me and asked me to travel along with him and his crew. When I

Content: told Swamiji that I needed to receive Him with poornakumbham, He laughed and said, I have already

Content: entered your house Ma, don’t bother about all these formalities. Immediately I got into the car. He then

Content: invited all others waiting to bid him goodbye to join him at our house. The moment we reached our

Content: parking lot I ran and got ready with poornakumbham to receive Swamiji. Swamiji was in very jovial

Content: mood. I didn’t know what to chant, so Swamiji chanted and we completed the arathi. Swamiji then toured

Content: the house and opened a closet door. To my luck this was the only closet that I hadn’t cleaned. How does

Content: he know, I thought?

Content: By now the others had also arrived and I served some banana to all while the dinner was getting warmed.

Content: Swamiji noticed that Gopal wasn’t having any bananas and asked him why. When Gopal explained his

Content: allergy to this fruit, Swamiji explained the basis of this allergy was in Gopal’s engrams, so he went ahead

Content: and fed the fruit to him. Gopal who was suffering from this allergy for years, is surprised even now as the

Content: allergy hasn’t again. He happily enjoys this fruit even now.

Content: Joining the Moms club:

Content: Next day while I was serving lunch to Swamiji, he called Ma Sachitananda and said Ragini you are promoted, your title from now onwards is T1 (talli one, talli means mother in telugu)) and Jyothi is T2 (talli two). He also spoke about His moms club to me and said I am one among them. I really couldn't understand what honor Swamiji was giving me and thought he was giving me a new nickname. In fact He started calling me T2, but out of my ignorance I was not very responsive. I told Swamiji that it was a very funny nick name. Ever since Swamiji stopped calling me by that name.

Content: EnneVeela Janamalettina Eemitayya

Content: Nee Naamamu Telisinacho Chaalunayya

Content: Eelungetthi Neegurinchi Paadutaamayya

Content: Taniviteerani Anandam Pondutaamayya

Content: Malli Malli Janma Ettina Maakeemitayya

Content: Nee Naaamam Okkate Maaku Chaalunayya

Content: Even if we have to take number of births, how does it matter to us, if we know Your name? We will sing aloud about Your name and about You. With that we get endless joy (anandam). Your name alone is enough for us

Content: Unique pada Puja:

Content: While Swamiji was having His lunch, I asked Swamiji If could do pada puja. With a funny smile on his face he agreed. For the past one week I was learning all aspects of pada puja ( prayers and offering at

Content: the feet of the divine) and preparing for this occasion. I memorized the Sanskrit chants and made every possible arrangement. In the afternoon I asked Swamiji once again if I could that I do the paada puja and went to bring all the paraphernalia. By the time I got every thing, Swamiji was sleeping on the sofa and Gopal was helping him wrap a bed sheet tightly around his feet. I was puzzled. What was I supposed to do now? There is no way I could touch His feet and do paada puja. Swamiji told me you can chant all mantras you know and if you qualify I will let you do the Paada Puja. I handed over a sheet of the mantras to Swamiji so that he could verify if I was chanting correctly (I later realized my foolish act. I was reciting to a person who was the master of masters in chanting)

Content: So I closed my eyes and started chanting all the mantras I had memorized till date in addition to the Paada Puja mantras. Swamiji patiently corrected my mistakes while I chanted. Some time later during the Krishnalaya teacher training, Swamiji told every one how I was the only one who performed the paada puja while he was sleeping.

Content: I was only then I realized that Swamiji was asleep while he was correcting my mistakes.

Content: When I finished chanting and prostrated to Swamiji he said your Guruvastakam is good, you passed the test, you are going to be my pujari. I was shocked. How could I be a pujari? What do I know about puja? I had never done any puja until then. But just a few months later, just before the LA ashram inauguration, when Swamiji told me to lead the daily Guru Puja I was reminded of the statement he made of making me a pujari. He had known very clearly of the things which would unfold. Finally it was Swamiji who taught me all about guru puja.

Content: Svargamaina Narakamaina Maakemitayya

Content: Nee Thodi Swarga Naraka Mokkatenayya

Content: Neeroopamo Madi Niimpi Meemandaramu

Content: Aananda Tandavamu Chesemayya

Content: Neevu Nindina Maa Bratuku Dhanyamayya

Content: Nee Roopa Mokkate Maaku Chaalunayya

Content: It doesn't matter to us if are in hell or heaven. We are blessed to the core. We are filled with You. Having filled with Your form completely, we dance with ecstasy. Your form alone is enough for us.

Content: Krishnalaya: the second teacher training;

Content: Everyone who attended this teachers' training program in California, have beautiful memories. Krishnalaya is a beautiful retreat located in a remote forest which is a five hours drive from the North of San Francisco. A river named Eel and lush green mountains surrounded the retreat centre. I was in-charge of running the commercial kitchen for the duration of our stay there. Ma Ananda Snehamayi and I purchased all the groceries and other essentials required for preparing meals for eight days for forty five people.

Content: During this time, every Thursday, Gopal traveled to which ever city Swamiji was visiting and helped the group there with various things. As per the plan Swamiji was to arrive from New Jersey in the evening, stay in San Jose that night and travel to Krishnalaya the next day morning. But Gopal called me from New Jersey and instructed me to pick up Swamiji and the group from the air port. Also the plan now was to travel to Krishnalaya the same night.

Content: Swamiji was to travel in a van while Snehamayi and I follow in another van which was loaded with the groceries. As we were loading the van with the tons of groceries we received a call from Gopal. He informed me that the flight on which they were all expected arrived ahead of time. They were in fact waiting at the airport. Snehamayi and I almost fainted as we were still loading the van while Swamiji was waiting at the airport. I started my van while Snehamayi got into hers. To our utter shock Snehamayi's car refused to start. Snehamayi woke up her husband, who jump-started the car. It was now 10.30PM. We were feeling miserable for making Swamiji wait at the airport. By the time we reached the airport Swamiji was chatting with some devotees who came to receive him at the airport. He received his two moms with the usual love and warmth. Not a word came from him about the long wait at the airport or our delay in picking them up. He remained as cheerful as ever. We realized we should never to put any other activity before Swamiji. He will always be our number one priority.

Content: We reached Krishnalaya in the wee hours of the morning. We unloaded most of the groceries and left the rest in the Van. Next day morning Ma Sachit briefed me on what to prepare for Swamiji's breakfast. As I was unloading the rest of the groceries from the van, Swamiji was getting into another car with some devotees. He called both Snehamayi and me to join the group for a drive. When I mentioned I had to prepare his breakfast, Swamiji said He we could join them as he was not planning to eat just then. The temptation to be with Swamiji was high. So we both followed them in another car. We had no idea where we were headed. What we thought would be a short trip turned out to be more than a hour long drive. Now we started worrying about all the work we had to finish back at the camp. When we reached a beach

Content: every one got down and the usual jokes and banter started. But Snehamayi and I were on the edge with each passing minute.

Content: Finally we approached Swamiji and sought his permission to return as we had pending work. Then why did you come? he asked. A simple lesson on responsibility hit home straight away. When we returned to the camp, Ma Sachitananda was pacing up and down. She explained in very clear term the significance of taking up responsibility, especially when one is around Swamiji. This way I received many important lessons through practical situations.

Content: Swamiji started the training session in the afternoon. And right on the first day, first session he expressed how he always wanted to spent time with a group of sincere seekers (indicating the group present there). Every morning along with a group of early risers he would walk down the corridors waking up everyone. He would sing songs making fun of devotees being woken by the master (instead of the situation being the other way round)

Content: Eel Gangai Karayole......Krishnalayathile...

Content: Dhyanam dheya poka. Iendym..Bhaktharkale Vaka..

Content: People would wake up from deep sleep and get a shock on seeing Swamiji at their door. The group moved to the next door, banging the door and singing the spoofs created by Swamiji.

Content: Caught unawares each person responded to the knocking and gave different kinds of darshans; some opened the door clad in his lungi (casual wear for men), while some would open the door with a

Content: toothbrush hanging from their mouth etc. Most would then follow Swamiji around the center and finally congregate at the river for the morning meditation. The Oklahoma group erected a canopy on the banks of the river where we spent numerous hours with Swamiji.

Content: Class on Engraved memories:

Content: One morning we had a brilliant session on Engraved Memories and how it affects the quality of our life. This concept was from age old scriptures where it is referred to as samskaara .

Content: Swamiji explained the role of society and how we are trapped unknowingly into its framework of expectations and exploitations. He announced that his main message during this program was his call to all individuals to stand on their own. He said You are not a child; you cannot say I was brought up like that. It was my habit since childhood; I cannot do anything about it. Basically, Swamiji told that He doesn't like people who keep on defending their actions. He gave His introduction and main message to the group Reclaim your inner space, have courage to realize that you are enough unto yourself.

Content: Swamiji then explained how engraved memories (samskaara) are created in our unconscious mind. He assured those who attended the NSP, never to fall into the unconscious space where samskaara are recorded. He also continued to explain how social set up creates sam̧skara in us, and promised to help is with our reactive mind.

Content: We sat huddled in the small tent under all weather conditions. For hours we listened to music or laughed at various jokes or listened to Swamiji talk to us. But mostly we just sat. No logical mind can comprehend

Content: that sitting. Later I came to know that the presence of the Master is so alive that it straight away works on

Content: the reactive mind.

Content: Tuhi Mata Tuhi Pita:

Content: One day Swamiji announced a music night. Swamiji sang a impromptu song based on this biography. This

Content: Villu pata (impromptu poetry) he sang on behalf of two people. One who was asking the questions while

Content: the other provided the answers, through impromptu lyrics that rhymed. There was a mimicking session that

Content: Swamiji and the others enjoyed thoroughly. Snehamayi and I started singing the Tamil version of the hindi

Content: song tuhi mata and tuhi pita. We had practiced for hours to sing this song for Swamiji. We both loved the

Content: original version in Hindi and thought the tamil version (which Snehamayi translated since she was a

Content: tamilian) would be a big success. But who can guess how things turn out around a master.

Content: We sincerely started singing Om Nithya! Om Nithya! taaym nneye tandaym neeye..

Content: (Om Nithya, you are our father, you are our mother)

Content: We stopped abruptly as we heard Swamiji's loud laughter followed by laughter from the rest of the group

Content: as well.

Content: Swamiji was saying, what type of song is that? Alright continue. Snehamayi stopped abruptly and said

Content: that's all there was in the song. But Swamiji urged us to finish. We sang like an express train and stopped.

Content: Of course Swamiji clapped at the end of the song, but people started singing:

Content: Idly neeye, Dosa neeye, Coffe neye and Tea you neeye

Content: (you are our idly, you are our dosa, you are coffee, you are tea)

Content: Snehamayi's expression told me that something had gone wrong drastically (I don't know Tamil) But since it was I who encouraged her to translate the song I didn't want to face her in that mood. So I ran into the kitchen.

Content: Any way I have no regrets and I still enjoy singing that Tamil song but of course not in front people, especially not in front of Snehamayi!

Content: The unforgettable dance day with Swamiji:

Content: One afternoon was announced as the Dance Day. We all danced to Kirtans for hours. Swamiji also joined us. In the meantime Ma Sanaatananda started singing a krishna song. We noticed Swamiji dancing with expression matching the lyrics of the song. The song was about how Yashoda's friends complained to Yashoda about Krishna's mischievousness. We all were stunned at Swamiji's expressive and graceful movement.

Content: Swamiji then asked us to dance to some more music. Now Swamiji was every where in the hall, mixing in the group, dancing in circles every where, dancing with every one.

Content: Very mischievously He danced, teasing some people, pretending to run away from another, when they were chasing him. No body seemed to be tired and this fun went on for hours. Swamiji can infuse so much life into any situation in so many ways we observed.

Content: The Experiences in Krishnalaya:

Content: It is very difficult to put the Krishnalaya experience in words. But in Swamiji's words when we verbalize any experience we create a formula to reproduce that same experience. Whenever we read those words again, the same experience is recreated. Swamiji created a kind of mood, where nothing mattered; just sit around Him, doing nothing. Swamiji said one cannot force lotus flower to bloom, one can only create a space, i.e. putting seed, allow the sun and take care of the seed, but the seed has to grow as plant and finally blossoms as lotus. The powerful presence of Swamiji can silence anybody's mind. No time, no space, no concept of day or night, just sitting with the silence of mind. We just sat for hours. A logical mind would conclude that it was just a waste of time. The deepest silence that Swamiji created could be experienced only by those present there. It was cold and physically uncomfortable under the canopy. But the mood was such that nobody seems to bother about it. We experienced a deep penetrating silence. We had no idea of the passage of time. Since there wasn't much room under the small tent, I was almost sitting in Prema's lap. There was just a flowing love amongst all of us.

Content: The Arunachala song was playing...I have given myself to You and in return I got You. Who is more intelligent? Oh Arunachala?

Content: The sky cleared to reveal stars!!

Content: It was a clear night with not a star in the sky. Ma Viroopananda said I wish there were some stars tonight. Swamiji heard this but didn't comment. He then put us through a meditation and after sometime asked us to relax. To our surprise, when we walked back to our rooms, there was a bunch of stars hanging right

Content: over our heads. The rest of the sky was still clear with not a star in sight. Later after dinner as walked

Content: back to our rooms the entire bunch of stars had disappeared.

Content: Mothers Day:

Content: Early one morning, I heard a knock on the door. Swamiji was walking down the corridor with his group of

Content: early risers. He was draped in beautiful orange silk. I took blessings from Swamiji and joined the group

Content: and heard everyone greeting each other a Happy Mothers day. Swamiji looked extremely graceful. We all

Content: followed him to the main meditation hall. In a beautiful meditation Swamiji asked all of us to pay our

Content: gratitude to our mothers.. He said every man experiences three garbha (wombs). The first garbha is Bhu

Content: garbha, with the mother who gave birth to us, second is Hrid garbha, through the father and teacher who

Content: gives us education, and Gnana garbha, the sadguru who gives us enlightenment. Swamiji said when we

Content: undergo all these garbha we will achieve totality. Then Swamiji asked us to remember all of these garbhas

Content: and pay our gratitude to them.

Content: All ladies wore saris to celebrate the day. Later Swamiji chanted few Chandi mantras which moved us to

Content: tears. Many of us saw a motherly energy in Swamiji that day. Swamiji blessed each and every one and

Content: gave kumkum (vermilion) as Prasad.

Content: During the training while participants were going through their presentations Swamiji would appear and

Content: call out those of you who have finished your presentations, raise your hands. When a group raised their

Content: hands he would excitedly say Eel Ganga (sacred river in India) is calling, let's go there, those who have

Content: not finished their presentations can stay back and suffer with Gopal (who was coordinating the US

Content: Acharya programs)! ha,ha,ha. Suddenly there would be a scramble to finish work so that they could join Swamiji on the banks of Eel Ganga for another session of fun and laughter.

Content: Swamiji served us food during atleast one meal every day. His servings were accompanied by individual blessings. You will have surrender of senses; you will have me, were some of his blessings.

Content: There was always a water gun by Swamiji's side. During our training sessions, He would aim and shoot water at people who would fall asleep. Some would wake up immediately while others would get a good shower. Swamiji would laugh naughtily and enjoy playing these pranks much to the amazement of the others.

Content: LA ashram seeds:

Content: While still at Krishnalaya, one afternoon Ma Sachitananda and I were serving Swamiji his lunch. A few couples attending the training were sitting around in the dining table with whom Swamiji was chatting. I was puzzled, why they were here chatting with Swamiji while the rest were in the meditation hall continuing with their training program. For some reason Swamiji did not eat properly that afternoon. Soon all the couples left with Swamiji. But before I got a chance to worry about my cooking, Ma Sachit led me to a meeting by the river. The same couples who were in the dining hall were sitting by the river with Swamiji under the canopy. Slowly Swamiji started, I wanted LA ashram to happen by next Jan 1, 2006 (it was May 2005 then). I heard Swamiji had already predicted an ashram in LA which would serve as his western hemisphere headquarters. He had this vision three years back when he had not even visited the

Content: western hemisphere headquarters. He had this vision three years back when he had not even visited the

Content: USA , and here he was making it happen. Swamiji said, Take your time, think clearly before taking a decision, but I want a clear understanding and maturity from all of you.

Content: Swamiji asked each one about their readiness. Wow!! We were all very excited. All of us immediately said we were ready to pack our bags and move into the ashram. The announcement itself was a pleasant surprise to all of us. Of course, I was waiting for this moment for the past one year. We all got up and hugged each other and congratulated each other as we were all going to become one family. What a memorable day! Swamiji himself was very excited. He said this place (Krishnalaya retreat center) will be marked permanently in history as this is where the seeds of LA ashram were sown.

Content: Swamiji invited all the other participants to join him on the river bank, and announced the happy news the seeds of LA ashram have been sown. He introduced his first batch of ashamites. The ashram will be a home to all devotees of Nithyananda he further added. We all sat around him listening to Kirtans while Swamiji in His swing seem to sway and dance to the music too, lifting his shoulders up and down to the rhythm of the music. That day Maatrusri and myself was sitting very near to Swamiji on either side, clapping with each other to the music. The thought that I was going to be with Swamiji made me crazy with joy.

Content: All through these eight days despite hours of fun and frolic, lengthy meditations, on the river side the whole group successfully completed all the training sessions successfully.

Content: The program was coming to an end but no one wanted to leave. The big Seattle group who drove down in a huge van, reluctantly started loading their luggage. As the groups were departing Swamiji was there to give them all one last hug and his blessings. It was a very touching scene to watch.

Content: That evening was the most memorable. For the first time I heard Swamiji tell me You are my mom. Swamiji listed the names of all his moms and briefly explained about them. You are the seventh lady in that list. My joy knew no boundaries.

Content: Next day morning I wore a pale color dress with a ochre stole. Seeing the ochre stole Gopal said, You cannot wear that ochre colored stole as you are not a sanyasi. Why don't you wear some thing else? We had not noticed that Swamiji was standing right behind us. He heard what Gopal and admonished him by saying I have already given her the sacred ochre cloth in the Himalayan trip, she can now wear it when ever she wants. Saying this Swamiji gave me a hug and his kaavi (ochre shawl) got wrapped around me. He smiled and said, See now I have myself put my kaavi around her . Now she has is senior than you (by being ordained before Gopal), Ha! Ha! Ha!

Content: From Krishnalaya we drove back to San Jose and to LA the day after that.

Content: In LA, many of the to-be-ashramite joined him to discuss various matter about the upcoming ashram. The work had begun!

Content: The E-Meter:

Content: One evening Sri Nithya Sathyavan and I accompanied Swamiji to visit the Scientology centre in Los Angeles. Although we had directions and a GPS to guide us we still got lost. While we were going round

Content: and round in circles Swamiji was every patient with us. Looking at us struggling to find our way Swamiji pointed out to a particular road and we immediately found our destination.

Content: Here the officials showed us an E-meter to measure body resistance with respect to our engraved memories. The E-meter is a shortened term for electro-psycho- meter, a calibrated device used for measuring the mental state or change of state of a person, helping the auditor locate areas of spiritual distress or travail so they can be handled.

Content: For both Sathyavan and me, the meter showed some resistance. It clearly showed we have engrams. When they measured for Swamiji, the meter didn’t deflect at all. There was no resistance. Surprised and shocked to see this unique reading they checked again and again for Swamiji. The E-meter didn’t move at all. Now they wanted to know more about Swamiji. They were highly inspired by Swamiji and his mission and honored by presenting him with books and CDs from their centre.

Content: Viswamanta Neeve Ayyikuuda Maa koosam

Content: Divi Nundi Digi Vachhavayya

Content: Karunaamurthivayya Nithyananda

Content: Maaku Margadharsinam Ecchavayya

Content: Tiruguleenidayya Nee Maargamu

Content: Nee Baata Okkate Maaku Chalunayya

Content: You are the whole cosmos; whole universe. For the sake of us you came down to earth. You are so compassionate; You showed the path to us. There is no defeat in Your path; Your path alone is enough for us.

Content: Himalayan Trip year 2005:

Content: Both Gopal and Chinmayananda were with me on the Himalaya 2005 trip. The number of participants had increased manifolds since the last trip. So I was very happy too meet many Nithya family members from various parts of world.

Content: We all first met in Delhi on the day of Buddha Poornima; the day Swamiji got His first spiritual experience at the age of 12.

Content: Swamiji conducted a puja and declared the Guru-Disciple relationship would be the main theme for his discourses on this year's Himalayan Yatra. Himalayas are the only true energy centre on earth. On this tour one will get moorthi in the form of a living master, sthalam in the form of the Himalayas, and teertam through the holy water of the ganges, and therefore it promised to be an experience of a lifetime.

Content: Be intense in whatever you do. This trip will be a life transforming experience for every one of you. The person going up the Himalayas will not be the same person coming down after fifteen days. These fifteen days drop all your concepts of status; become like a child. Relate to everyone as you would relate to Me.

Content: Every moment with Swamiji is exciting. On this trip Swamiji worked on our deep rooted negativities. He explained in great detail the way we create conflicting thoughts with words. We then give energy to unnecessary words that rise in us because of our engrams. He made us write our engrams and helped us overcome them by making small changes in our words and thinking. Finally in his presence we meditated to get rid of our engrams.

Content: 164

Content: When God is my son

Content: My Kids:

Content: The day we went to Yamunotri Ma Sachitananda and the kids stayed back in the hotel as they were not feeling very well. The moment Swamiji returned that evening Ma Sachit informed him about Chinmayananda’s high fever and terrible state. First Swamji went and checked on him, then he reprimanded Ma Sachit. He said You are putting engrams in my kids. You are learning how thoughts work on our mind, you should be more sensitive about using words which create samskara in their consciousness.

Content: Swamiji’s use of the phrase my kids was very touching. He once mentioned I am bringing them up just like how I would have brought up my own children. I am keeping munte track of whom they are sitting with or talking with. I don’t want any negative engrams to go into their heads.

Content: Chinmayananda is very a blessed kid. Swamiji has created great enthusiasm in the kids at the ashram. Each of them has broken free of their conditioning from their earlier life. This opened them to greater responsibility, creativity and intelligence which is evident from the books they have written at the age of 13. Chinmayananda was a typical American teenager playing video games, practicing karate and partying with other kids. With just a few months in Bidadi ashram I saw a transformation in him which I couldn’t have managed in a life time.

Content: Dam and a bank: the difference:

Content: On many occasions Swamiji spoke about bringing up children.

Content: Swamiji feels every child should be given an impression that he /she is really wanted. Guilt is planted in them for not doing the right thing. The parents are too tired to handle them sensitively. All this creates a deep wound in the consciousness of the kids. Swamiji said in many occasions, I give them complete freedom to see how they handle it and then tackle the problem-area at an energy level.

Content: Mostly parents curb their freedom and give them a list of ‘do’s and don’ts’. Which act like dams, blocking the flow of a river. On the other hand Swamiji gives them complete freedom. He gives them a few essential guidelines and leaves the rest for them to handle.. Swamiji says kids are like wild rivers; I only put the banks on either side which supports and gently directs. Dams are different from banks.

Content: As parents, since we lacked this understanding of the difference between a bank and a dam, we not only constructed a dam but solidified it to the maximum possible extent. Out of our anxiety for our only child we controlled his freedom. All we ever thought was if he gets good grades he would have a bright future.

Content: But in the process of giving him good education we forgot about giving him a good mental set up. We drilled into him the concept of good grades. What did he want in life, what does it take to be really happy? How was all this affecting him? All our happiness was based on our status in society and how wealthy we are.

Content: My son Chinmayananda is very fortunate, before we could completely damage to mental set up, he became Swamiji’s kid. The kids in the ashram are very attached to Swamiji. When I call from US and speak to the children in the ashram, even before I can ask them about anything else their response is We are not missing you mommy. We are missing Swami, and they happily laugh

Content: Dams are different from Banks:

Content: Some of my relatives do not understand why Chinmayananda left his life in US and is being brought up

Content: in Bidadi ashram. But a deep understanding of a beautiful secret from the scriptures helped me explain to

Content: them the significance of growing up in an ashram under the guidance of a master.

Content: Swamiji once explained to us, There is some thing called Jyothishya Rahasya. Jyothishya means light

Content: which shows the root. Jyothisha rahasya means secret of light, which shows you the root.

Content: Every night when one falls asleep they leave the physical body and enter the causal body. And again one

Content: return from causal to physical body when they wake up. While returning from causal body (darkness body)

Content: to physical body one traverses through many energy bodies. Each body has many deep rooted memories

Content: embedded in it. The Etheric body has all pain-memories, mental body has all guilt-memories, and Pranic

Content: body has got all desire- memories. From causal body one moves like an arrow towards the physical body.

Content: The pull in the physical body should be strong like a magnet so that one can travel through the four layers

Content: towards the physical layer. Otherwise one can stay in the causal body itself. The pull in the physical body

Content: plays a major role and is called as samskara, which can be picked up while traversing through the layers.

Content: These four layers are like shops. If one is going through greed related phase in life lot of memories from

Content: second layer body is picked up. If one is going through a fear filled phase samskara related to fear will be

Content: picked up. This way one fills up the samskara-bag depending on what one is going through.

Content: Usually when kids wake up they have a fear about going to school as they remember their exams, teachers or the homework. They pick up these samskara from the Etheric body and come to the physical body. This fear manifests as disease and pain in the physical body. Children will express all negativity through their body if they have to go to school.

Content: This process happens regularly. But now the kids in the ashram wake up with cheerful thoughts of going to Guru Puja, chant mantras, or of seeing Swamiji there. Naturally they pick up positive and cheerful samskara that fills their life with more joy. Although the day they follow Swamiji like ducklings. These positive samskara are invigorating and keep them in high spirits all the time. Thus they do not pick up negative samskara when they travel from the causal body to physical body.

Content: It is very apparent that Swamiji is not working on the superficial layers; but on deeper layers. In technological jargon he is 'formatting their disk and rewriting their internal programming'.

Content: This process happen with everyone. The thought with which one wakes up with has a profound impact on the energy levels with which one handles the day.

Content: I feel very fortunate; I have an enlightened son in Swamiji and a biological son who is growing to be a nice human being.

Content: Avataara Murthivayya Nithyananda

Content: Maaku Maargadarsinamu Ecchavayya

Content: Andhakaaramulo Padiunnaa Mammalni

Content: Velugu Baata Loki Mallinchaavayya

Content: Nee Velugu Baata Enta Madhuramayya

Content: Nee Margamokatee Maaku Chaalunayya.

Content: You are the divine incarnation. You are leading us to the exact path. We were all struggling in the darkness; You turned all of us into the path of light. Your path of light is very sweet; Your path of light is enough for us.

Content: Gangotri 2005:

Content: From Gangotri we were to go to Gomukh the next day. The trek to Gomukh is one of the toughest in the entire trip.

Content: As we waited for Swamiji to start the evening discourse, he announced he wouldn’t go to Gomukh the next day, but those who wanted to go were free to do so.

Content: Next day most of the participants choose not to go since Swamiji was not going. However there were two people , who despite being discouraged went ahead and started their trek towards Gomukh. Shortly after they left we learnt that there was a storm brewing and the trail to Gomukh had been closed. It was very clear that when Masters speak / advise the message may not be obvious but his words should not never be disregarded.

Content: One hilarious incident that took place on this trip was when Maatrusri and I were healing each other since both were had a sore throat. We were meditating and had our eyes closed. All of a sudden we felt we were enveloped by an umbrella. We opened our eyes and to see Swamiji laughing and he had covered us both in one of his ochre shawls. Every thing will be all right ma, he blessed us both. Since then when ever we both sit for a healing session we laugh at each other, remembering our Ochre Umbrella.

Content: Teacher Training Seattle:

Content: After addressing the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) Swamiji arrived in Seattle. Swamiji and his crew stayed at Maatrusri and Omkaar's house. After Swamiji slept, we (Maatrusri, Omkaar, Ma Sachit and Premeshwari and I) laughed a lot at a recent incident that happened in the Himalayas. Ma Sachit's termed this incident the Idly Engram. We were talking in whispers so that Swamiji would not be disturbed.. Next day morning Swamiji was in a very jovial mood teasing Ma Sachit and chatting with all of us, suddenly he said, "So how is the idly engram? Ha! Ha! Ha!

Content: How did Swamiji know about it? Ma Sachitananda complains even now." There is no privacy, Swamiji knows every thing." She grumbles.

Content: Ninnu Minchaina Dharmeedi Nithyananda

Content: Nuvve Dharma Muthi Nithyananda

Content: Nee daggara Nervaleeni Jnanameedayya

Content: Neelona Pondaleeni Bhavameedayya

Content: Sarva Jnana Sampanna Nithyananda

Content: Nee Dharmaoropee Maaku Chalunayya

Content: What is the greater truth, higher than you Nithyananda? You are the form of truth Yourself. There is nothing that we cannot learn from You. There is nothing that we cannot experience from You. Your form of truth alone is enough for us.

Content: The practical lesson:

Content: Seattle Teachers Training venue is a wellness center located very close to the city. The venue is located in the midst of a thick forest. Thick tall trees surround the place.

Content: In the morning we all went to a waterfront for a walk. All of us sat for a morning session with Swamiji. Suddenly someone in the group screamed as they had spotted a bear just a few feet behind Swamiji. Swamiji saw the bear, but there was no change in His facial expression or any movement. In His usual cool manner he gave very clear instructions to the group. The group started clapping hands to make some loud noise, and the bear left. Then Swamiji with much laughter asked the group, How many had a fear stroke? Swamiji explained how a fear stroke kills the intelligence on what to do in an emergency. Swamiji practically showed us what fearlessness is. Whenever you face a real problem, the courage to face the situation without fear stroke is fearlessness.

Content: Musical Day in Seattle:

Content: One morning during Seattle Teachers Trainging we sat outside with Swamiji listening to an album of recently released Kirtans. Swamiji narrated how He sang in one of the Salem program. On listening to this the participants requested Swamiji to sing. Some people ran and got some musical instruments and to everyone’s delight Swamiji sang a song on Arunachala and on His biography in English for the first time.

Content: Then Swamiji said, Only I am singing. Today all of you will compose and sing songs for me in your mother tongue. He announced the name of the program as Entertainment for Enlightenment.

Content: We were allowed to pair up and compose the songs and submit by 9pm that evening. Maatrusri and I paired up. But due to a hectic schedule that day both us didn't get any time to sit and work on this project. However with a lot of last minute scrambling, we took the help of a dear friend who helped us translate a concept I had written some time back in English. We quickly practised it a couple of times and ran to the hall just few seconds before the deadline.

Content: Swamiji heard and enjoyed as each team sang their composition. He then blessed the group appropriately based on the content of their song. Here are the few verses of the Telugu song that we sang.

Content: The concept I had written was an emotional outburst when Swamiji left US after the Krishnalaya Teachers Training. I had a sudden wave of depression engulfing me since I was missing Swamiji and was unable to do any work. There was a sudden surge of gratitude for the love He has showered on me. I was talking to my mind and consoling myself.

Content: Manasa Oh ! Markatama!!

Content: Gentulata Manavee Mantanalu Maanavee

Content: Aantata Vyapinchi Unna Mana Swamini Chudavee!!

Content: Oh Mind oh Monkey, stop jumping around .Stop talking to your self, look !! our Swamiji is permeated every where,

Content: !!! Manasa Oh Markatama!!

Content: Challanaina Nadialaa Saralamaina Saritala

Content: Kadali Kadali Pothunna Premavahini Chudavee

Content: Chinnadaina Dhosilito Dhahamenmi Teerenu?

Content: Pattu Vadali Petu!! Bettu Vadali Pettu!!

Content: Vaahinito Okatiga Olaladi Poyevu!!

Content: Look, Swamiji is a River of Love. He is a cool river, soft breeze, watch and enjoy the flow of River of love. The river of love is flowing continuously, open your palms to the water and quench your thirst. Don't try to hold the water with your closed palms. Your thrust won't be fulfilled.

Content: Oh Mind!! Don't be stubborn, don't hold on to me, leave me alone. Be as part of the River, flow with the River.

Content: !!! Manasa Oh Markatama!!

Content: Mana Swami Bhodalato Janalendaro Marinaaru

Content: Shilalanni Bheshaina Shivulugaa Marinaaru

Content: Neekemi Telusule Neeloni Maarpulu

Content: Pattu Vadali Petu!! Bettu Vadali Petu!!

Content: Dhivyanaina Bhavitavyam Satwaramee Cherevu!!

Content: Look! Many people have changed with Swamiji's teachings. Rocks have sculptured into nice idols. What do you know what changes you are going through? Oh Mind!! Don't be stubborn; don't hold on to me, leave me alone. You have bright future ahead of you.

Content: !!! Manasa Oh Markatama!!

Content: Aantata Vyapinchi Unna Mana Swamini Chudavee!!

Content: Mana Bangaru Swamini Choodavee!!

Content: Look at Our precious and dear Swamiji! How fortunate you are!

Content: Swamiji gave both of us a wonderful blessing in tune with our song. He said You sang about the mind and how it is troubling you. Oh Mothers! just like how I have the mind in control, I will control the monkeys in your mind, I promise.

Content: Our friend Sri Krishna, who translated and wrote the song for us, later mentioned how he was struggling to write a song for Swamiji for quite some time. But that day the words just came tumbling out and so did the melody. It is not uncommon - when Swamiji's grace is there creativity simply flows.

Content: The essence of the male female relationship:

Content: One day all ladies at the teachers training program draped the sari. Swamiji looked at all of us and with a happy smile and complemented the graceful femininity in women. We then heard the kirtan Nithyaswara Namaawali song which is a song for Goddess Devi.

Content: Swamiji then explained the meaning of love between a male and a female, a husband and a wife. Swamiji said to better understand that song, You need to understand the two dimensions of the female, when she is fulfilled. Swamiji beautifully explained the essence of the male, female relationship.

Content: Mother and beloved both are same energy in different dimensions of a fulfilled women. When a man gets enlightened he radiates both male and female qualities. When a female gets enlightened, she will radiate both mother and beloved attitude. When a woman integrates both qualities only then she will become enlightened. A real woman is mother and beloved both. Swamiji explained that in the Hindu temples usually we find two women on both sides of the Gods. There are not two women; there are two different dimensions of a woman. Swamiji gave examples of Lord Vishnu with Sridevi and Bhudevi. It shows Lord Vishnu has got an enlightened soul as consort. Sridevi represents beloved dimension, where as Bhudevi represents mother dimension. A real mother will be ultimate beloved and a real beloved will be ultimate

Content: mother. When there is deep love between a wife and a husband, the intense relationship happens, beloved

Content: dimension ends with mother. At the eleventh year the husband becomes the innocent child of the wife.

Content: Swamiji said when a husband really sees a complete mother in his beloved he really understands love. If

Content: we can experience that dimension, we have reached the peak of love. Similarly when a woman sees an

Content: innocent child in a husband only then she has experienced the peak of love.

Content: Swamiji said mother is the ultimate expression of the woman. That is why Ramakrishna worshipped Sarada

Content: Devi. It might seem strange for a husband to worship his wife and see her as Devi and offer Pada puja.

Content: Swamiji said Ramakrishna experienced the ultimate mother in her, he didn't relate to her with any fantasy.

Content: Sarada Devi in turn saw an innocent child in Ramakrishna. She reached a state of mother where she

Content: radiated love like a beloved and showered compassion like a mother.

Content: What a wonderful day we had. .

Content: Ragini's Birthday:

Content: June 25th, 2005. Swamiji entered the hall with Ma Sachitananda, and announced to the whole group that it

Content: was her birthday. Two years ago on the same day Ma Sachit had walked into Bidadi ashram too. We all

Content: sang the birthday song for her. Later that day Swamiji told us Hey 'Moms, why don't you plan something

Content: on her birthday. Why don't you give her a surprise.

Content: Some of us got together to bring in a cake, decorate the hall and surprise her at lunch time. To our utter

Content: surprise, Swamiji called Ma Sachit and let the cat out of the bag. They are planning a surprise party to

Content: you, ha! Ha! Ha! By saying that He continued, Ragini never keeps any surprise from me. She always tells me ahead if someone is planning a surprise for me. So now it is my turn to let her know of the surprise. Ha, ha! Ha!

Content: So at lunch time when Ma Sachit entered the lunch hall and started singing, Happy birthday to me!!! Maatrusri who was planning the surprise, was shocked. Who can predict your actions Swamiji? Some times He is like an innocent child. But the only problem is unlike normal kids, He likes to play with our foolish minds. What to do? He is God in the form of a Son.

Content: The Homa, The smoke charmer:

Content: At the end of the training and as part of the acharya initiation we had a homa for Lord Shiva. As always Swamiji performed a powerful homa. As the wood in the homa kunda (pit) was catching fire there was a lot of smoke coming out of it and was blowing onto Swamiji's face. He waited for a few minutes but the smoke didn't change directions. Swamiji with His hand gestured as if to stop the smoke and immediately the smoke changed its direction and went straight upwards. Each one of us were certain we had just witnessed a miracle. Later when some one asked Swamiji if it was a miracle, he replied that's was not a miracle, that was just the power of coincidence. Just then it started raining and someone requested Swamiji to stop the rain as we were all sitting out in the open. Swamiji looked at that person and said, If it doesn't rain, I will thank existence for helping us continue with meeting with out rain. If it rains, I will thank the existence for helping us enjoy the meeting in the rain. In either case I enjoy. There is no resistance.

Content: How many lessons You are teaching us practically.

Content: Building the Stage in the West: LA ashram:

Content: After the Seattle Teachers Training Swamiji and few of us drove to LA. The other to-be-ashramites also joined us and we all stayed in a hotel. We had started our work towards the upcoming ashram in LA .

Content: Wife and Husband relationship:

Content: Every day Swamiji called for a meeting in his room with all ashramites before we ended the day. In these meeting Swamiji shared a lot of knowledge with us in a very casual manner. One day he opened the Pandora box of husband–wife relationship. He started the topic so casually and got all of us involved into discussing our weaknesses and problem areas. The love and care with which he handled it put us all at such ease. Each one of us in turn opened up and discussed our shortcomings. As always with Swamiji no topic is left untouched by his wit and humor. When the topic moved to wife–husband nagging Swamiji started asking how each person in a couple nags the other. When it was my turn I said Swamiji now a days we don’t get enough time to nag each other. Swamiji looked at Gopal and commented, Ya, ya now a days he is nagging Me, referring to Gopal’s close interaction with Him everyday on various issues. The laughter continued. Then Swamiji asked, So what is the solution for nagging? Sri Shraddananda suggested, Surrender (to existence), that is the only workable solution, Then Sri Omkaar added, Yes yes, to whom you surrender is not important, just surrender is important, you can surrender even to your spouse. Uproarious laughter followed. I watched Swamiji laughing with His whole body. Immediately next comment was, Just live with it, with total acceptance. Then another suggestion came, Get enlightened. Immediately Swamiji

Content: 177

Content: started, That's wrong, if you are married you are nagged by only one person. But if you are enlightened, you are nagged by hundreds of people. Ha! Ha! Ha! The room was now exploding with roaring laughter.

Content: Swamiji added the final joke and said, "Nothing works, once you are married, you lose your intelligence. Swami said we have to find practical solutions. Someone suggested, We can have a male-ashram, and a female- ashram. Then where will Swamiji stay? This was going on and on like this. Finally Swamiji said, I am going to have fun at the expense of all of you. Ha! Ha! Ha!

Content: Swamiji spoke about vanaprasta sanyas. He said it is given to couples to remove their karma. They both work out their karma. In the normal married couple, wife goes on to fight with the husband based on her insecurity, and the husband goes on fighting with the wife based on his lust. Swamiji explained if wife and husband don't have proper understanding between them, they create more and more karma for each other. Enlightenment does not hold any meaning. When they take Vanaprasta sanyas, both come to an understanding and declare to each other that they will help each other get rid of the engrams. The relationship exists to help each other progress on the spiritual path. Thus the idea of Enlightenment plays a major role in the relationship.

Content: Once they reach maturity and are ready sanyas deeksha is bestowed upon them after which they separate from each other. As part of the Sanyas initiation ritual they perform the shraadda (last rights) for each other. The vow reads We will liberate and undo all the vows taken at the time of marriage. Swamiji said for this step it needs tremendous maturity and readiness between both wife and husband.

Content: Swamiji spoke about His parents. He said, I have never seen my father abusing my mother. Even though they have difference of opinion, he never ever abused verbally, or disrespected my mother. He used pull her leg for fun. Same way she also never confronted my father. She always took care of my father and my father did the same for her.

Content: All through these meetings Swamiji was working silently and performing a surgery of removing our tumors of negativities.

Content: Sakshat Daivamu Neevenayye

Content: Maalona Daivamu Chudamannavu

Content: Daya Moorthy Vayya Neevu Nithyananda

Content: Mammalni Daivamuga Maaramanaavu

Content: Maalo Daiva Bhavam PenchaaVayya

Content: Nee Daiva Roopat Makku Chaalunayya

Content: You are the Divine himself. You asked to see the divine in us. You are the embodiment of compassion. You told us to become Divine. You raised the divine feelings in us. Your divine form alone is enough for us.

Content: Yoganandas disciple:

Content: One day we visited the shrine of Yogananda where one member of our group met a Yogananda's disciple. He invited the disciple to come and meet Swamiji at the satsang that evening at Sri Nithya Swabav's residence. The disciple came for the evening meeting. After Swamiji's discourse everyone present was blessed with energy darshan including the new person who turned ecstatic when Swamiji touched him. He

Content: later shared a beautiful story with all of us. He had been a follower of Paramahamsa Yogananda and practicing his techniques for years. Once he had a spiritual experience that put him in extreme bliss. Although he didn't experience anything like that ever again he started feeling very low and depressed. Just that morning as he was meditating, he fervently asked Yogananda for guidance and had a vision of someone telling him, Come, I will guide you. That after noon he came across our group and was drawn to Swamiji. During the energy darshan from Swamiji he once again experienced the same extreme joy.

Content: When we later enquired with Swamiji about the sequence of events we witnessed that day he simple smiled and said it's the power of co incidence. The power of co incidence is very strong around Swamiji as we observe.

Content: Hit and run case:

Content: We were returning after visiting a prospective site for the LA ashram. We were 7 of us in the car along with Swamiji while Sri Ananda Jyothi was driving the car. Suddenly there was a big thud from behind. Another car had rammed into us from behind. I was sitting in the rear seat and had fallen asleep. So the jerk gave me a bad whip lash and I bruised my head. Both cars pulled onto to shoulder to assess the damage. All of us were a little upset with the other driver for his negligence and were discussing about filing for insurance and calling the police. Due to the damage to vehicle and passengers, the liability on the other driver might have been a heavy one.

Content: Later Swamiji explained the importance of using the positive healing words.

Content: A small change can make a big difference. Our inner space is wordless. The words we use creates our personality. If we express love and care we think we have done a great thing. Understand the drama that we are doing. We have guilt inside us. What ever words you use is your personality. We have a wrong idea. You think praising is a correct attitude while condemning is not. When we use positive words just be completely positive. Yesterday if I condemned a person and today I am praising the same person, it does not mean I have any guilt in me. Suppose we cannot use those words constantly, no need to worry. No need for consistency. Start using always beautiful words. By using positive words you can construct positive personality.

Content: Radiating pleasantness should be a way of life; it should become an understanding. That’s the ultimate achievement. If you can understand that there is nothing valuable on the planet earth which binds us; automatically you will start radiating pleasantness. Understand that there is nothing that you stand to lose. Continuously feeling blissful is our basic necessity. You have opted out of the rat race, so there is no reason to carry a constant irritation inside you.

Content: Ninnu Talavani Nimishamu Vyardhamayya

Content: Nee Roopamu Madinindani Bratukendukayya

Content: Malli Malli Ninni Chuusi Maa Bhaagyam Talachi Talachi

Content: Mammu Meemu Maimarachi Poovudumayya

Content: Manishi Loona Mamata Nimpina Nithyananda

Content: Nee Talapu Okkate Maalu Chaalunayya

Content: What a waste of time and it is useless moment, if we don’t think of Your name. What a waste of life? If it not filled with You? We look at You again and again and we feel blessed again and again. We indeed

Content: forget ourselves by looking at you. Nithyananda! You have filled mamata (compassion) in us. Thinking about You alone is enough for us.

Content: Swamiji left for a short rip to Malaysia and India and returned to US on Aug 12th 2005. Ma Sachit, Gopal and I went to receive Him at the airport.3There was no trace of tiredness in Swamiji even after that long journey. He looked at Ma Sachit and said, See Ma I have become thin since you were not there to look after me. Immediately he enquired about each ashramite. We informed him that everyone was regrouping again in LA that day.

Content: Manhattan Beach:

Content: The same evening Swamiji and all ashramites went to the Manhattan Beach.

Content: It was a beautiful evening with full moon light. Swamiji sat on a bench on the bridge facing the ocean. There were not many people around. The full moon was reflecting on the ocean. It was an amazing scene to watch Swamiji, the beach, the moon, the ocean and the waves and the perfect setting for what He had to share with us that evening.

Content: Swamiji slowly started describing the introductory session he delivered at the recently concluded NSP in India. Swamiji added, how for a long time now, he was waiting to talk to his devotees on this subject. He said, I was like a pregnant woman holding this truth. As I started delivering this talk about nirvana, tears rolled down my cheeks. That's when I realized how I was waiting for this moment. I felt a great relief and joy like a mother who just delivered her baby.

Content: There was great anticipation in the air as we waited for him to speak more. Sri Sachitananda’s video camera stopped working. Maatrusri tried to switch on the voice recorder but noticed the battery was running low. When Swamiji came to know, He told her its ok mom, record it in your heart. Saying that Swamiji took the voice recorder from Maatrusri and held it for a while. Much to Maatrusri’s relief the battery sign now lit up showing a charged signal. It recorded for three hours continuously after this.

Content: I was sitting right by his side at his feet to receive the great knowledge that was to be delivered that evening on Manhattan Beach.

Content: Story of the Great Swan:

Content: He started narrating an astounding concept in the form of a story, which seemed like the story of our own lives. The only difference was the story that Swamiji was narrating has a deep spiritual meaning which put everything that is happening in our life in a crystal clear perspective.

Content: There is the small story you need to understand he started. A Swan flying in the sky crosses a lake beneath. While flying over a lake its beautiful reflection falls on the water The fish living in the lake look at the reflection and jump with joy at its beauty and believe the Swan itself has landed in their lake. They start celebrating and dancing with joy around the reflection thinking it is real. Some fishes start building a fence around the reflection trying to claim the Swan belongs to them. Suddenly the swan flies close to the ground. The swan was neither aware that it was flying over the lake and nor was it aware that it landed on the ground. The moment the swan landed on ground, naturally the reflection disappeared and all the fishes started wondering were the swan had disappeared to.

Content: It is just same with our lives too. The reflection of our Atman is in the body. So we think we have come down to the planet earth. We start jumping and running around trying to acquire and possess various things. But suddenly one day we realize the swan never landed. All along it has just been the reflection. The moment one realizes that what ever was on the lake was the reflection one realizes you are the swan. The original swan is status achieved. But the man who constantly associates with the reflection suffers and makes other fishes suffer too. They create fences, and try to relate to all fishes within this area. They relate to them in different ways as a mother, father, sisters, brother and enjoy this role-play with them. They all are playing thinking you are the swan. But only when you disappear all them will understand there is no swan and you will realize you never landed on planet earth.

Content: A man who understands all this, even while living is a Parama Hamsa, Great Swan.

Content: Life is purposeless, that's the big secret. Just sit and contemplate on this statement. Slowly at one point it will hit you deep somewhere. That's exactly where we have our vested interest stored. It could be our relationships or our bank balance or some concept of joy or some concept of happiness. These are the things that make you believe that life has a lot of purpose. This is exactly where you are stuck. This will not let you grow. There will be a voice inside you saying no, no, no, life has got some purpose. See where the tumor is so that you can remove it from your being

Content: I knew knowingly or unknowingly we have come to a diamond, a Master. We were near a fire. Whether you want it or not if you are near the fire it will burn you. That's what Vivekananda says Understand gracefully or you'll be made to understand forcefully.

Content: The other problem will be when we think we have understood but it hasn't become an experience. A Master will not relax till this understanding becomes an experience. The secret to this transformation is to understand and relax. That moment it can become an experience. Today is the right time. If you understand it now, there will be no suffering. The moment you forget, suffering starts again. So decide now and face it tomorrow with a conviction. Just understanding the purposelessness of life shields you completely, physically and mentally. This is the ultimate healing power. Nothing else can heal you so much except this one truth. This is not a mere concept but a truth. This one truth when understood can heal your entire being. Any wounds of the past, or apprehensions of the future will have no power to disturb you if you understand the purposelessness of life.

Content: You may think you have responsibilities; you have to take care of your sons, daughters or parents. They are all waves of the same ocean. So understand the impermanence of this wave and all other waves that will only merge in the ocean finally.

Content: Each one of us is like a bubble. Millions of bubbles are getting created with each wave that you see on this beach. But the truth is, the bubbles and the waves are not separate from the ocean. Before creation or after creation it is always a part of the ocean. That's the thing to be understood. The beauty of purposelessness is the greatest truth of life that has got a tremendous healing power. Physically and mentally it can heal you and it can just liberate you. The whole talk was loaded with too much meaning.

Content: One person asked Swamiji what about our responsibilities as parents? Then Dive deep into your responsibilities came the stern response from Swamiji.

Content: It was getting colder so Ma Sachitananda tried to cover Swamiji with a shawl. He brushed the shawl aside. He said Just try and understand this truth Ma. I have experienced the truth and I am trying to meet in you in the same plane so you all can relate with Me. I laugh and joke and even throw tantrums, so you can relate to Me and grasp the truth. As long as you realize this and use this relationship to grow yourselves, this relationship will be fruitful. Do all of you understand? This relationship will last only as long as I see you are growing towards enlightenment. Otherwise, this relationship has no meaning. Don’t ever think you know Me. I am not the person you see; I am not the person as you understand. So don’t get afraid of what will happen if I don’t protect myself in this weather with a shawl. I lived through freezing temperatures in the Himalayas. Instead of focusing on what I am talking, you always focus on Me, you understand Ma? It’s time. You all need to grow. Swamiji continued the talk further.

Content: Andananta Ettu Undi Kuuda Neevu Maalo Okadivai Aadevayya Entati Ghanudivayya Nithyananda Maato Kalisi Neevu Paadevayya Anni Telisi Neevu Mammu Karuninchavu Nee Karuna Okkate Maaku Chaalunayya.

Content: You are at a state where none of us have reached. But You still sing with us and dance with us. Your greatness is such that You know all our faults, but still You show compassion on us. Your compassion alone is enough for us.

Content: Like every night we all met again in Swamiji’s room. He was in his usual jovial mood again. We opened a suitcase that arrived that day. It contained the Anandeshwara and Anandeshwari idols and other Pooja

Content: paraphernalia. Swamiji explained the names of all those items and placed the idols in His room. He looked at me and said Start the guru puja from tomorrow morning ma. I went blank as I had no idea how to do the morning Guru Puja? Swamiji understood my dilemma but still he said, Why do you stare at me? I am talking to you ma. Start the guru puja from tomorrow morning itself, ok? Immediately I nodded said, Yes Swamiji. I came back to my room totally confused.

Content: First Guru Puja:

Content: Next day morning we all gathered in Swamiji's room. Swamiji said, Start ma, I want to see how much you know about rituals. I was blank and said, I really do not know anything Swamiji. Then Swamiji said, What to do now? Ok, I will explain The whole group received what I consider a precious gift from the master, our Guru – teaching us the guru puja itself, its significance, it's importance, the meaning of the chants. He demonstrated to us how to perform it as well.

Content: A Man who teaches just words is a teacher. Guru is a person who has experienced a truth and can reproduce the same experience in the others. Why do we worship the Master? When the truth is experienced through the Master tremendous joy expresses from our being, deep gratitude comes out from the being, and we simply bow down to the Maser. As this understanding deepens, we rise in love with Him. We even imbibe His body language.

Content: We automatically see the Master as far more than God. When this happens this energy starts working as God and miracles can happen. We now just don't see him as God but start experiencing Him as God. Thus falling in tune with the Master this deeply the gratitude can only make us see him as God. It is in this

Content: profound mood that the guru puja is performed. Guru Puja - Puja to the Master is done in this consciousness. Swamiji said, Actually, when you reach this consciousness, not only the master but you also become God. When you are established in this deep gratitude you not only see the Master as God, you experience God within yourself. In Manasa puja we offer our complete being to master. Every day again and again we fall in tune with that consciousness early in the morning. The Manasa puja is worship to yourself.

Content: The day after this Swamiji asked me to chant and perform the puja. Since I had not mastered it Swamiji asked to play the guru puja CD and all of us chanted along with it. For the next few days he guided me step by step with great patience and love. One day I the vastram (clothes) I offered in the puja was wrinkled. Immediately Swamiji noticed it and questioned me, ma will you put wrinkled clothes like that on me. The next day I offered banana along with its peel as Prasad. Swamiji explained Prasad should be ready to eat, never offer it like this. The day I took some sweets as Prasad Swamiji said for guru puja and arathi try to offer natural food, not precooked and processed food. Swamiji joked about my pronunciation since I have a strong telugu accent. Even Sanskrit words like Nithyanandam got converted into Nicha-Anandam. His humor was always present in every situation. One day I chanted the words achamaneeyam ( water offered to rinse the mouth) two times, to which Swamiji said, you think I don’t brush my teeth well, so you are offering achamaneeyam two times, Ha! Ha! Ha!

Content: A great skill I mastered over the next few days was the co ordination between ringing the bell in one hand and rotating the arathi in a clockwise manner with the other hand. Many time Swamiji explained how to do this. Recently (1 year since I stared performing Guru Puja) I was getting ready to perform the aarthi in

Content: the LA ashram in Swamiji's presence. I was sure he would comment on the lack of coordination between right and left hand. But instead this time Swamiji placed his hand on my head and blessed me I would master this juggling with ease. Since then the co ordination happened with such ease.

Content: Rakshabandhan Day:

Content: During our stay in the hotel Rakshabandhan was approaching. Ma Sachitananda and I were in an Indian shop and saw Rakhis on display. We thought it might be nice to tie raakhis to all the male alhramites members. I explained how in some parts of India like Hyderabad we tie Rakhis to brothers and sons too. So we decided to tie Rakhis to Swamiji too. All five of us, Ma Sachitdananda, Maatrusri, Viroopananda, Supreeti and I went into His room. Swamiji was reading a book. He did not even look at us and asked us, What? When we expressed our wish Swamiji quietly nodded His head. To our great excitement one by one we all tied Rakhis on his wrist and fed him some Jilebhi. With five Rakhis on his wrist he looked very different. Then Swamiji asked, What am I supposed to do now? One of us answered, Swamiji usually we get a gift for tying the Rakhi. Swamiji answered, Ok. So what do you want? Maatrusri asked slowly, Swamiji we want enlightenment. Swamiji was in deep silence for some time and then He lifted His head said, Ok, not only will I give you this that but I will also give you a proof of this promise. Get me some paper and, I will put it in writing. Each one of us ran and got some paper or book. Swamiji wrote for each of us His promise of enlightenment.

Content: Here by I promise I will make you (realize) enlightened before you (or) I leave the body. And He signed at the bottom of the page. We couldn’t believe what we were holding in our hand. Swamiji said, What did

Content: I write for each of you ? If I write 'before you or I' then you die before Me. Three of you (Ma Sachitananda, Ma Viroopananda, and Ma Nithya Roop) will die before I leave the body. If I write 'I or you' then I leave the body before you, Swamji pointed to Maatrusri and Supreeti.

Content: We were puzzled how these two ladies will live that long. Swamiji explained not in a physical sense and did not answer further. We asked Swamiji the same question later also, but Swamiji did not answer. Few moments later all the men folk entered the room and were shocked and jealous at the gift we received. Gopal tried to convince Swamiji that in Hyderabad, men also tie Rakhi to the Guru but everyone knew he was concocting a tale.

Content: Anyway, we were very excited with our rare gift and exhibited it to them and tied Rakhis and fed them with sweets Swamiji's presence. Swamiji now started cracking up jokes. Gopal asked, Swamiji is this an accident that they got this gift? Fool, nothing is accident. Swamiji replied.

Content: When we got back to our rooms all ladies hugged each other and shed tears of joy and gratitude.

Content: Later, on a different occasion Swamiji joked and said to the people in the meeting, “Can any body imagine that I can give enlightenment for one little rope like this? These unpredictable things will happen to those who are not anxious about the future. The Present will bestow gifts upon them. And I thought these are the 'perks' of living around a master and these are the real 'juicy' moments. No once can predict what will happen next.

Content: Morning Moments with Swamiji:

Content: During our stay in the hotel just before the ashram inauguration every day after Guru Puja every day we (a group of less than ten LA ashramites) used to go for a walk with Swamiji to Santa-Fe dam. Swamiji used talk to us on various topics; and taught many important lessons.

Content: Three Tallis: T1, T2, T3:

Content: One evening we all went to a beach along with Swamiji he was chatting to us casually. Swamiji wanted to drink something since he was thirsty. Since Ma Sachit was not around Maatrusri and I took care of him. Swamiji said, referring to Ma Sachit, Maatrusri, me, They are Three Tallis ( mother in Telugu). He described each of us as Durga, lakshmi and Saraswati. Ma Sachit as Durga – goddess of strength (T1), and me as Laxmi- goddess of wealth (T2), Maatrusri as Saraswati- goddess of wismd (T3). For a while we three had fun teasing each other with those names.

Content: LA Ashram pre stage:

Content: Led by Swamiji and accompanied by Lord Anandeshwara we all moved to the new ashram building on Aug 31st 2005. Swamiji kept the idol in His quarters as the Ananda Sabha (meditation hall) was not ready then. He said, Whenever you enter into a new building to live always take the idol first. Divine energy should enter before you enter. Other wise your ego will enter the house. You always should remember that there is some higher consciousness than you.

Content: Later that evening we moved all the things we had kept in storage during our stay in the hotel. Swamiji saw all the house hold items arriving one by one. When he saw as young Chinmay’s bicycle he got onto it and started riding in the ashram compound. He next played the Guitar which came out of some one else’s boxes. He saw trumpet and we heard him try his hand at that too. Next moment to our amazement Swamiji was riding a Scooty going up and down in the ashram grounds. We saw a little boy thoroughly enjoying himself.

Content: Next morning on Sep 1st Swamiji spoke to us on the meaning of our prayer Nithyanandam Paramasukadam. Later that day we got very busy making arrangements for the inauguration ceremony on Sept 3rd 2005.

Content: Devotees from all across US started flocking to the ashram from Sep 2nd onwards. Volunteers started decorating the place amongst much fun and laughter. Swamiji's constant jokes kept the whole ashram in peels of laughter. He would give us precious advice and guidance and direction and looked into every minute detail of the big festive atmosphere that was building up at the ashram. That evening Swamiji presented all lady ashramites with the beautiful saris in cream with gold color, and dhotis and veshtis to the men. We received Kumkum as His feet dust. We were up all night making various arrangements for grand inauguration the next day.

Content: LA Ashram inauguration

Content: September 3rd 2005 marked a momentous occasion for the Nithyananda movement in the Western Hemisphere.

Content: Early morning at 5am we were all assembled in Swamiji's quarters dressed in our new clothes. Wearing the traditional dhoti was proving to be a big challenge for the men. As a safety precaution they wore their belts over the dhoti at the waist. The atmosphere was full of pleasantness and joy, as accompanied Swamiji to the puja place to perform the Guru Puja to Anandeshwara and Anandeshwari. An elaborate homa was performed by Swamiji where he made is aware of the ashram life we were taking up. Swamiji promised all of us that He would take care of our spiritual growth.

Content: Next morning on Sep 1st Swamiji spoke to us on the meaning of our prayer Nithyanandam Paramasukadam. Later that day we got very busy making arrangements for the inauguration ceremony on Sept 3rd 2005.

Content: Devotees from all across US started flocking to the ashram from Sep 2nd onwards. Volunteers started decorating the place amongst much fun and laughter. Swamiji's constant jokes kept the whole ashram in peels of laughter. He would give us precious advice and guidance and direction and looked into every minute detail of the big festive atmosphere that was building up at the ashram. That evening Swamiji presented all lady ashamites with the beautiful saris in cream with gold color, and dhotis and veshtis to the men. We received Kumkum as His feet dust. We were up all night making various arrangements for grand inauguration the next day.

Content: LA Ashram inauguration

Content: September 3rd 2005 marked a momentous occasion for the Nithyananda movement in the Western Hemisphere.

Content: Early morning at 5am we were all assembled in Swamiji's quarters dressed in our new clothes. Wearing the traditional dhoti was proving to be a big challenge for the men. As a safety precaution they wore their belts over the dhotis at the waist. The atmosphere was full of pleasantness and joy, as accompanied Swamiji to the puja place to perform the Guru Puja to Anandeshwara and Anandeshwari. An elaborate homa was performed by Swamiji where he made is aware of the ashram life we were taking up. Swamiji promised all of us that He would take care of our spiritual growth.

Content: Imbibe Gita:

Content: From September 4, 2005 Swamiji started his discourse series on Bhagavad Gita at the Malibu Hindu temple. It was pretty hectic as we were trying to set up the ashram and handle the Gita discourse arrangements. Swamiji noticed many of us were drowsy during the gita discourse. He explained to us one day Ramakrishna says, Master will not spare an iota of lethargy and sluggishness. If you cannot keep up with me you will not be able to implement the teachings. Once the doubt arises of why I should I work like this, that's the moment the bridge of trust starts shaking. Gratitude is the only morality. All of you are going to be with me permanently, This drama will repeat often, and you will notice how I will work with each individual patiently, how I let them grow. I work in a different way with different people. Let the purposelessness sink in you. When you drop the goal, you will understand. Every thing is a Lila. Imbibe Gita. Then He continued, Oh, you are not accustomed to sleeping for just four hours that is why you are sleepy. We knew there was something coming up just around the corner.

Content: Express Uniqueness, not Equality

Content: All ashamites together came up with a schedule to share the various tasks in the ashram. During the next meeting when Swamiji saw the schedule he torn it to pieces and explained to all of us I don't want to create another monastery, I want to create an ashram. Community living needs few basic things; first do not judge everybody with your logic. Logic-less living is the basic thread for community living. If you start thinking I am doing this much, he is not doing any thing, you will create a monastery, never create an ashram. Ashram is the place where people express their uniqueness, not equality. The moment we start

Content: measuring one against the other we are creating politics. Then the work that is happening here is not out of gratitude and love. It is happening out of fear and greed, and comparison and jealousy. If you start thinking like this, then you will miss the Gita.

Content: None of us expected that Swamiji would tear the paper like that. But the message he conveyed built a strong foundation of understanding for all ashramites.

Content: Swamiji continued: Do not be under the impression its because of human effort things are happening. Its due to satya sankalpa things are happening. Parashakti is taking care of every thing. One should only work only out gratitude. If you source of inspiration is anything else apart from gratitude, you will be hit again and again. If it is fear or greed that keeps you around me you will not learn anything. I want you to be based only in gratitude to the existence. I will be constantly working on people who have surrendered out of fear or greed.

Content: The man who works out of fear and greed is shudra, the man who works out of attention need is Vaisya, the man who works out of jealousy or comparison to prove that he is some way superior to others is Kshatriya. The man who works out of gratitude is Brahmana. These things do not come by birth; these things come by your guna from your being that you are supposed to earn and develop. You are supposed to work for that. I wanted a new set up. I want all of you to work as a single force and become a single energy. Master is like an airplane so only if the run way is strong he can ‘land’. Even if one part of the runway is shaky the whole landing process will be stopped. The stronger the run way, bigger the plane that lands ie., the master can land with more energy.

Content: The secret of leadership is not to bother about equal performance from all, but identifying the uniqueness in each. People are not equal. Each one comes with their karma and a different attitude. In the absence of a Master the whole thing will become dharma but in the presence of a master is becomes Moksha. That is the difference between dharma and Moksha. Work for Moksha. That is the difference between ashram and monastery. Ashram is the place where people work for Moksha. Monastery is the place where people work for dharma. In ashram you work out of gratitude. In monastery you work out of attention need and comparison.

Content: The secret is to work out of gratitude. If you work out of gratitude you will see there is a continuous flow of energy in you. Bliss working in bliss, moving in bliss, living in bliss. You will have a smile that radiates from your being.

Content: I will be working in a different way with each one of you. This difference does not reflect in any way the amount of love I have for each of you. I will point each of you in a direction based on a particular Bhaava with which you will relate with me. Your growth will happen in that direction and in that Bhaava.

Content: I don't want to create one more monastery; I want to create a mystery school where people will experience the divine, where the consciousness becomes an experience. Don't try to have just a intellectual understanding, let it become an experience. If you have only intellectual knowledge you will torture yourself and others. Live happily and experience the consciousness. Because what you imbibe and internalize, you will radiate

Content: Then I said, Swamiji, once you return to India the work here may slow down and we may not have much to do.

Content: Swamiji looked at me and narrated a story of a cook in a monastery. A cook in a monastery had been cooking for thirty years, He never bothered to be around the Master, nor attended the Masters discourses regularly. When it was time for the master to leave his body he called every one to announce the person who will head his work. All of them were expecting one of the disciples who were close to the Master to be named. The Master explained how every one was only listening to his discourse, while the cook lived his teachings. He thus makes the cook enlightened.

Content: I was almost floating in the air and proceeded to Ananda Sabha to decorate.

Content: Understand my teachings:

Content: The next day Swamiji continued in the same thread. He explained all decisions taken by the leader will not be right, and all the stones thrown at the leader will not be right. Throw away all your morality, we are here as a family, as a home. Does everyone in a house work similarly? Ma tell me? Swamiji was looking at me. I answered, Yes Swamiji, if the comparison is there between wife and husband, there are always constant fights between them. Swamiji further continued, let some people work and let some not work if they don't wish to. Do not bother. It is ok if the few others have to work a few extra hours.

Content: Evarike Daiva Roopam Kaavaalanna

Content: Nee Madhura Roopam Chaalunayya

Content: Aandarini Alarinche Nee roopamu

Content: Eenta Evarikee Manchi Madhuramayya Nithyananda

Content: Enni Kottla Daiva Roopalumma Kaani

Content: Nee Roopa Mikkatee Maaku Chalunayya

Content: Different people desire to see different divine forms. Your sweetest form alone is enough to satisfy all of us. All of us cherish Your sweet different divine forms. There are crores of different divine forms. But Your divine form alone is enough for us.

Content: Uoohakaina Aandani Nee Sundara Roopamuto

Content: Sakshaat Devi Darishana Micchevayya

Content: Rajarajesharivi Neevenayya

Content: Aaa Baala Tripurasundarivi Neevenayya

Content: Aadi Shakti Roopamaina Nithyananda

Content: Nee Devi Roopamu Maa Bhagyamayya

Content: We couldn't even imagine, with Your sweet form You gave us the dharshan of Devi. We have seen Raja Rajeshwari, we have seen Bala Tripura Sundari. You are the Adi Shakti form. Your form of Devi is enough for us.

Content: Lord Ananda Venkateshwar:

Content: On October 12th, the tallest ever idol of Lord Venkateshwara arrived at LA ashram. We made all arrangements to welcome Him and waited at the gates with eager anticipation. Swamiji offered arathi and we welcomed Him with greetings of, Lord Venkateshwara ki Jai( in Hindi), Edukondala vada Venkata Ramana Govinda Govinda ( in Telugu).. Swamiji happiness and excitement was at its peal that day. He swiftly climbed the truck where the crate carrying the idol was kept. The consecration took about eight

Content: hours. Swamiji performed the abhishekam and later decorated the idol. It was past midnight when all of us did the Guru Puja. Even after Guru Puja was done Swamiji wouldn’t rest. He sat right in front of the Venkateshwara and admires His beauty and grandeur till the early hours of the next day.

Content: Nithyanandam 2005:

Content: This was the first time I visited the Bidadi ashram. That was like returning home after a long time. I had wonderful time with all the ashamites in India.

Content: Nithyanandam is one of the most intense programs offered by Swamiji. It can be compared to the Sagar Manthan i.e. the story about the churning of the milk ocean. The story goes: Both the Devas (the good) and the Asuras (the bad) wanted Amrita (nectar of bliss) from the ocean of milk. The Master took the form of a tortoise and balanced the mountain that was used as the churning instrument. A huge snake was wound around it with the Devas and Asuras holding it on either side to churn the ocean.

Content: Likewise, the Master initiates a churning process within us which He balances. He helps us go beyond the good and the bad and finally attain the nectar of bliss. He is our greatest companion through this churning process. On Dec 15th, 2005 Swamiji gave the introduction message of Be un clutched. And the program started with a big bang by introducing each other and dancing tirelessly to the new kirtans.

Content: Just before he left LA, after the formation of LA ashram, Swamiji invited all the LA ashramites to come for Nithyanandam. We were told that every one would have a different path through the ten days. One might go begging, another might be sent on Parivrajaka (wandering), and some one might just have to sit in total silence. The LA ashramites had lot of fun thinking about attending Nithyanandam. He may adopt

Content: any method to hit the ego as we were attending en masse. It turned out to be a life time experience. It was an intense time for each one of us. The deepest of the wounds started coming out for each participant. Swamiji touched on the unique problem that troubled each individual. It was a customized treatment from each ones perspective, but outwardly it did not look like He was doing anything specific at all.

Content: Everyday was a new experience. No schedule. Everyday there was a new technique Swamiji would unleash. Then we were put through conscious sleep.

Content: The trip to Tiruvannamalai was a very emotional one and I had tears seeing the town, seeing the place where Swamiji walked all His childhood bare foot. The grand finale of Nithyananda, was the fire walking. 300 people from allover the world several of them who have never seen fire walking, walked over live embers spread over a 14 ft long pit.

Content: Varanasi trip:

Content: Swamiji took all of us to Varanasi - the spiritual capital of India, for a week. We started a two day train journey on Jan 3rd, 2006. During this trip the ashes of Sri Sri Sri Nithya Arunachalananda Swamiji, beloved father were also being immersed in the ganges. Swamiji's father had attained Maha Samadhi (left the body after Enlightenment) on 12 Nov 2005. We also visited three major Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, and Varanasi. In Varanasi we saw places where Swamiji spent during his days of wandering. Later we all had beautiful boat ride with Swamiji.

Content: Trisulamu Darienchi Kailaasa Murtivai

Content: Sakshat ParamaShiva Darishana Micchavayya

Content: Aa Bhoola Shankaruni Minchi Neevu

Content: Aanada Tandavamu Chesevayya

Content: Ananda Tandava Moorthy Nithyananda

Content: Nee Shiva Roopamu Ati Madhuramayya

Content: You wore Trishul and looks like Kailash Nath. You gave us the dharshan of Shiva Himself. You dance like Shiva gracefully. But the bliss that You radiate exceeds that of Shiva. Your Shiva's form is very sweet.

Content: Swamiji's Missing Rudraksh:

Content: We had the most unforgettable incident during the Varanasi trip. After Visiting Maha Kaleshwar the whole group along with Swamiji traveled by train to Varanasi. We reached Mugul Sarai railway station early in the morning. Despite all our precautions and security we mysteriously lost one of Swamiji's suitcase.

Content: None is us in his crew could figure out how this piece of luggage went amiss. When Swamiji was informed he started laughing and said nothing. This suitcase had Swamiji's ochre robes and a rudraksh mala. This strand of rudraksh is set in gold. But more than the monetary value it had a greater sentimental value associated with it. These rudraksh had been with Swamiji since the time of his enlightenment. Half an hour later Swamiji emerged from his room and happily announced it will be taken care of.

Content: But in the meantime a massive search was launched but to no avail. Gopal and Ragini went to the railway station and searched the platform. They searched every inch of the path from the train to the hotel. But the bag was not found. A complaint was filed with the railway police station too. But they thought it wasn't prudent to reveal. the details of the expensive contents of the suitcase. Meanwhile we all were very stunned

Content: 201

Content: at Swamiji calm and blissful demeanor. Around mid afternoon Swamiji instructed Ragini and Gopal to return from the railway station.

Content: Later Swamiji performed a puja at a devi temple which was followed by a discourse. Here Swamiji announced. Here is some good news for all of you, He said. The Rudraksh that was lost in the train today for which Ragini and Gopal were searching all night has just been found. When everyone requested Swamiji to narrate the whole story, Swamiji simply said, this is just to teach you a lesson so that you will be more alert.

Content: How it was found is so miraculous.

Content: We received a phone call that the bag was found. Three people from the crew went to pick it up from the railway station. After a formal verification and inspection of the bag it was handed over. When they opened the bag each and every item was in spick and span order and untouched. The rudraksh, the books and the ochre clothes were all intact.

Content: We were later informed that the railway station is very notorious for petty thieves. It was therefore unbelievable that the bag was recovered safely. They never gave a good explanation about how it was found. Apparently some person who found the bag saw an invitation card in it. The card was from a doctor in Chennai who is a devotee of Swamiji. When the doctor was contacted and informed of a suitcase found in the railway station, they also described the ochre clothes and rudraskh in it. The doctor devotee of Swamiji immediately recognized the contents and suggested they contact Sri Sachitananda.

Content: 202

Content: Thus ended one more miracle in our journey with Swamiji.

Content: The lesson was that we can do our best but we need divine grace to complete our duties successfully.

Content: Then again, when we do our duty, it will have no relationship to the grace of the divine.

Content: We just do our best and divine showers what is best for us.

Content: Ragini and Gopal felt that Swamiji and Kala Bhairava (the presiding deity of Varanasi) played a trick on

Content: all of us to teach us a lesson on ego and warn us about our responsibilities.

Content: Trisula Daari Nihtyananda Shiva Swaroopa Nithyananda

Content: Karunaa Murthy Nihtyananda Kaarunya Murthy Nihtyananda

Content: Veshweshawara Sri Shivaropoaa Kaasinadha Kaalabhairava

Content: Jyothirlinga Shivasroopa Nithyaswara Sri Nihtyananda

Content: Andari Muktini Andinche Maha Linga Nithyeshwara

Content: Ganga teera Shiva Roopa Nithyaswara Sri Nihtyananda

Content: Nithyananda wears Trishul. He is the form of Shiva Himself.

Content: He is very kind and compassionate.

Content: The Vishweshwar Jyothirlinga is the form of Nithyananda.

Content: Nithyeshwara Linga gives liberation to one and all. Nithyanada is the form of Shiva who roams on the

Content: banks of Ganga.

Content: He missed a date to keep a promise. New Jersey trip discontinued, US tour 2006:

Content: Through out the history of Dhyanapeetam, a date, an appointment, a program has never been cancelled.

Content: But just once during the 2006 spring tour of US, there was an interesting turn of events.

Content: During this tour Swamiji gave discourses and conducted workshops in various cities in the USA.

Content: We were in the second leg of the tour. After the programs in Columbus we drove down to New Jersey. The first day discourse was great and soon after we arrived from the venue, at around 11pm we received a call from India. Swamiji's maternal grandfather was very sick.

Content: He was an Ananda Sevak award winner at the Jayanthi celebrations of 2006 and was and ardent devotee of Swamiji. As a child Swamiji was very attached to him. He never missed a day's puja for the last 70 years. Everyday little Swamiji would climb onto his shoulders and tour the great Tiruvannamalai temple. The ardent Shiv bhakta would explain the various pujas and rituals performed in the temple. He would show Him the numerous moorthys in the temple and explain the story and essence behind each of them. In many ways he was the first guru to Swamiji on His spiritual journey. Once Swamiji after enlightenment asked him what he would like. The great man said, Swamiji I am so happy to see the little flower in my hand blossom in to this great banyan tree and giving shade to millions. I could not ask for anything more. Thank you for being part of my life. When Swamiji insisted that he ask for something, his grandfather said Please bless me with your physical presence during my last breath.

Content: Now the time had come for Swamiji to keep this promise. He hurriedly called his crew for a meting. He said this devotee needed Swamiji during his last hours and decided he would travel to India within the next few hours. We were told to manage the rest of the programs in New Jersey.

Content: This was the first Swamiji missed a scheduled program. This was a classic case of a devotee's pull wining over the Master's commitment. Swamiji would have never liked to leave a program unattended, but the devotee's love for Swamiji was strong.

Content: Swamiji left by the next available flight. Swamiji initiated Sri Ananda Roop as his medium during his absence in the US. By His divine grace, the programs in New Jersey went on successfully. Not only that but a new era had begun in the mission, where Swamiji's mediums conducted advanced programs on Swamiji's behalf.

Content: Ten days later, Swamiji returned to resume the tour in Vancouver for the weekend programs.

Content: Cleanliness:

Content: At the end of the US tour for 2006 we returned to LA ashram from Seattle. Soon after we landed everyone got busy with various tasks at the ashram. Within ten minutes someone came and told me that Swamiji had blessed our apartment with a nice gift. I ran to see what it was all about. On the door of the apartment was written Pig Pen in Swamiji's handwriting with his signature below in permanent ink.

Content: When I opened the door, I understood what He meant. There were suitcases placed chaotically in the room and no space even to walk freely. The apartment was in a mess.

Content: After a lot of maintenance, the apartment has been promoted to the level of dog bin but not yet to the level of human home. This was not the end. There was a lot more that was yet to come from Him in the next few days. In one of the following days I was in the kitchen, with a few more ladies, cooking. Swamiji came in and commented that the kitchen needs to be kept cleaner. We got to work and did our best to clean it up. But through out the day Swamiji made many more rounds and every time he found another messy spot. It baffled us how we missed it while He found it straight away. I understood Swamiji's mood and cleaned the office as well that night. But this continued on the second day as well.

Content: Around afternoon, Swamiji made one more round to the Kitchen. At this point I started getting frustrated. I thought Why are you coming only to the kitchen again and again. Go and see the office. It is clean.

Content: Immediately after a few minutes, Swamiji came back and said firmly to me, Go and see the garage. It is a total mess. Not only did He say that but He went to the garage, opened its door and started throwing things out of the messy garage. A few devotees standing nearby started helping Swamiji. Swamiji called me to the garage and said, If it is like this in India, I would have burnt all these things. But the fire laws here don’t permit me. I tried to give an excuse that I needed shelves to organize the garage. But he said, Who would object if you want to buy shelves? On the same day, we purchased a lot of shelving and with the help of volunteers; we organized the garage in the next few days.

Content: The garage had household items of all the families who had moved into the ashram. I never thought we could get around to organizing it some day. Only after Swamiji’s direction, we did it. All it required was our willingness to put in effort to keep the place clean. Swamiji made us realize that our readiness to work goes a long way in completing any task.

Content: Teacher’s Training, Buckhorn Cam, May 2006.

Content: Camp Fire:

Content: On a particular night, Swamiji wanted to enjoy camp fire with the participants. A few volunteers went out to arrange for it. Soon Swamiji arrived at the spot too. It was a chilly evening and the logs wouldn’t start burning. It was a little windy too. After a few tries, the volunteers looked up at Swamiji. He moved and stood near the logs, got the matches and started the fire in the first try. But the fire was limited to a very

Content: narrow region in one of the logs. Swamiji moved His hand just a few inches as though commanding the

Content: fire to rise up. What looked like a candle flame instantly rose up and became a huge fire in just a split

Content: second. It almost approached five feet within a fraction of a second forcing some of us to take a step or

Content: two backwards. Swamiji was standing where He was before. He moved His hand as though asking the fire

Content: to calm down and it went down to around 3 feet. All this happened in less than a few seconds. Then He

Content: went and sat on the swing.

Content: After some time, Swamiji suddenly said I can feel that there are some animals, like a fox or something. It

Content: is more than one. Now everyone looked on all sides. Someone from the crowd said, No Swamiji, we don't

Content: see any. Swamiji then asked Is everyone here. I saw someone going to their room. There was silence.

Content: Aikyananda said, Is it a coyote Swamiji? Swamiji said, Yes. That is the correct name. Another person in

Content: the crowd said, But Swamiji, they are usually not expected to be here at this time. Swamiji replied,

Content: Coyotes get attracted to the Kali's energy, the Devi's energy. That is why they have come out. A few

Content: minutes later, the participant who went to his room came back and sat with the rest of the crowd. Later

Content: this person told me that he had gone to get his blanket as it was getting very cold. As he went towards his

Content: room, he saw some coyotes moving in the shadows.

Content: Eenta Dhanya Jeevitamu Maakichhavayya

Content: Sakshaat Shakti Roopamu Chusitimayya

Content: Eenniveela Kanulunna Chaalavayya

Content: Eela Tanivi Teereenu Nithyananda

Content: Nee Shakti Roopamu Maa teejamayya

Content: You gave us such a blessed life to all of us. We saw the Shakti in form. Even if we have thousand eyes, it is not enough to see Your form. How can we quench our thirst? Your Shakti form alone is enough for us.

Content: Greatest naming ceremony:

Content: One day before Teachers Training Program at Buckhorn Camp came to an end, Swamiji announced that all ashramites were going to get new names that would contain the words Nithya and Ananda. That evening everyone started guessing each other’s name based on our nature or the work we did. Some of the names predicted were Chalu Finance-Ananda, Nithya smile-Ananda etc. The next day Swamiji initiated everyone into Vak (the power of words and intension) in the afternoon, followed by inauguration of several ashrams world wide. The energy in the room was extremely high. Next Swamiji announced the naming ceremony for the LA ashramites. Someone in the crowd told Swamiji about the predicted names. Swamiji laughed and said, You will all be surprised with the new names because it is totally opposite to the predicted names.

Content: When my name was called out, I went up to him to receive the new spiritual name and get his blessings. Before he initiated me, Swamiji said Auspicious, She is filled with love and compassion. She is so auspicious that whenever I start something new, I always look at her face, she is so compassionate. He gave my new name: Ma Nithya Dayananda Mayi. He wrote my new name on a certificate with His own handwriting. I became very emotional and my mind went blank.

Content: Along with me, all the other ashamites also got beautiful names. The way Swamiji announced each new name was very inspiring and fun filled. The intensity and the way Swami spoke that day was so touching that the entire group burst into tears. It was a moving experience for every one of us.

Content: France-Nantes Trip-World tour 2006:

Content: I had a great opportunity to visit Paris and enjoy the endless beautiful streets of Paris. Swamiji conducted discourses and a DSP (Dhyana Spurana Program) in Nantes, France for the first time. The workshop went very well with sincere seekers of France flocking to meet Swamiji. For those two days, a physically handicapped participant attended the program in a wheel chair. By the end of the program, it was time for Energy Darshan as usual. Everyone danced with great excitement. She watched the whole scene from the sides. Suddenly she expressed her wish to stand up after years of sitting in the wheel chair. Obviously she was very touched by Swamiji's message of Un-clutching. Inch by inch she started un-clutching from her chair and her past. Slowly but surely she finally got up. She was now standing with support. Everyone gathered around her in circles and started encouraging her.

Content: She slowly started standing without anyone's help. After a few minutes, she started moving her legs to the rhythm of the Energy Darshan keerthans. It was such an exciting moment for all of us. It was one more instance of Swamiji's divine energy that heals one and all.

Content: Guadaloupe Trip:

Content: Guadaloupe is a small island under the rule of France. It has different kinds of tropical plants, beaches and more importantly innocent, warm people. Swamiji gave talks and other programs to very large gatherings.

Content: After the 2 day Dhyana Spurana Program (DSP), and the energy darshan, people shared their beautiful experiences.

Content: One of the experiences was mind boggling. A lady explained how Swamiji had saved her life just a few days ago. One night she was sleeping as usual. Her son slept as usual in his own room. That night, a thief broke into her bedroom. As she tried to get up he pulled out his knife to stab her. But for some reason, he didn’t. He went inside the other room and stabbed her son in the hand and came back to her room. This time he raised his knife but did not stab her. By the time the whole incident happened, the police came to the spot and arrested the thief. They inquired about the entire incident. Now they asked the thief why he didn’t stab the lady while he had stabbed her son. He explained clearly to them that the lady was holding something that she was wearing around her neck which she directed towards him. This he explained had paralyzed his hands. He complained to the police that the lady had directed some black magic towards him and that she should be enquired.

Content: The lady slowly explained that the beads she was wearing around her neck was something that was given to her by Swamiji and that it had nothing to do with black magic. She felt so grateful that Swamiji had saved her life in a miraculous way and thanked him again and again.

Content: This happened just a few days before Swamiji landed in Guadaloupe. Such deeply inspiring incidents happen whenever great Masters land any where. Sri Ramakrishna explains this beautifully to his disciples. He said, To even look up and see the Master as the Master walks on the street, one must have done something good in their previous births.

Content: I do not know what I did or where I was, but I know for sure where I want to be always. It is with my sweet Lord.

Content: Evaru Eevidhamuga Ninnu Chusinagani

Content: Aanni Daivaropalu Neevenayya

Content: Eenni Saarlu Japienchina Nee Naamamu

Content: Aanni Rettlu Aanandamu Pencheenayya

Content: Neeku Saati Evarayya Nithyananda

Content: Nee Amruta Roopamu Maaku Chaalunayya

Content: Even though different people cherish to see You in different forms, all forms are You only. You are the form of all divine beings. You cannot be compared with any divine form. How many times we repeat your name that many times our joy is multiplying Your form of Nithyananda is enough for us

Content: Sanyas Initiation:

Content: One day in May 2006, during the Guadelope trip, Swamiji explained the importance of Purna Sanyas to Ma Sachitananda. During that talk, Ma Sachitananda recommended some of the LA ashramites for initiation into Upakramena Sanyas to Swamiji. The next day, while were working out some details of the trip in the hall Swamiji came downstairs to check His mails. During the casual conversation, Swamiji asked Gopal, Ragini is recommending Upakramena Sanyas to you. What do you say? Gopal immediately said, No need to ask me Swamiji? We will do whatever You say. But first let me finish tallying these accounts. It's very confusing right now. Swami looked at me, So, what is Jyothi saying? I remained silent.

Content: On our way back from Guadaloupe we were transiting through Atlanta. Everyone except Swamiji and me went to have lunch. Now I thought it was the right time to ask Swamiji what I had in my mind for

Content: sometime. After gathering my courage I slowly said, Swamiji, I want to talk to You. Swamiji said, Ok. What do you want to talk about? He was smiling. About Sanyas, Swamiji. Then Swamiji said, What is there to talk? If you want to take Sanyas, you take Sanyas. If you don’t want to take Sanyas, don’t take. Then I said, Swamiji I am not going there: whether to take Sanyas or not. But I wanted to talk to You.

Content: But before I could say anything, the others who went for lunch came back. Now I didn’t want to discuss anything in front of them. But Swamiji in His usual jovial manner told the rest of the folks, She wanted to speak to me about sanyas, bha, bha, what is that big thing? She wants to talk to me alone. Ha! Ha! Ha! When we boarded the flight, I was sitting next to him. He asked me again, Tell me Ma. What did you want to ask? Once again, I couldn’t tell Him what was going on in my mind.

Content: After coming back to LA ashram, Swamiji explained about Sanyas in a very detailed way to all the LA ashamites. When Swamiji asked Those who are interested in taking Sanyas raise your hand, all those who later took the first initiation raised their hand except me and Ma Medhananda Mayi. Now Swamiji looked at me and told everyone, See, she wants to have a discussion with me about Sanyas and made fun of me.

Content: One more week passed and there was no conversation regarding this topic between me and Swamiji. I heard from Ma Sachitananda that He was planning to give Sanyas the day before He was leaving to India. The day before initiation Swamiji was busy attending the American Telugu Association conference. He was getting in the car ready to leave for the conference and I happened to be walking that way. He said What Dayananda Mayi? Are you ready? Tomorrow is Sanyas initiation. I literally ran into the kitchen as I didn’t know what to do. Swamiji laughed and left.

Content: In the evening, many Swamis of other orders were coming to the ashram and I was busy preparing food for them in the afternoon. I least expected Swamiji to talk to anyone that day as it was a very busy day for everyone at the ashram. But, in His own way, Swamiji entered the kitchen, smiled at me and said You wanted to talk about Sanyas right. Come, let's go and talk. I was in the middle of the cooking for a considerable number of guests. Not wanting to leave the cooking midway, I said, Swamiji, I am cooking. Swamiji said When you are free, I'm busy. When I'm free, you are busy. Two busy people have to talk! What to do, He was laughing and asked Radhika, and Premika to take care of the cooking.

Content: Now I went with Swamiji to his quarters and Swamiji was ready to listen to what I had to say. Nothing came out of my mouth and Swamiji was now really concerned and asked, What Ma. Is there something serious? I said, No Swamiji. Nothing is serious. But I'm not able to talk. He said, You don't want to take Sanyas? I replied, Swami, I want you to decide for me. I will do whatever you say. What do you want me to do? Now Swami said, I want you to take Sanyas. Now I was so relieved that I didn't have to make any decisions. Then slowly I opened up and said Swami, can I learn dance after taking Sanyas? It is my childhood dream. Swami burst into laughter and said Yes Ma. What is there? You can learn dance.

Content: I had thought Sanyas is a serious business for long faced people. But it was not so. Later I announced to everyone that I'm going to take Sanyas the next day. I came out jumping and singing, I can sing and dance Nithyanandas' name.

Content: Next day, we all got ready early in the morning and waited for Swamiji. Swamiji came out and offered arathi to Venkateshwara after which we all proceeded to the Ananda Sabha. He was carrying the special Rudraksha beads with Him which He would later give to all initiates. He sat on His throne and we all sat

Content: in front of Him. Now Swamiji began to speak one of the most inspiring talks on Sanyas. He explained how He would initiate us into Sanyas. He would install an automatic mechanism (which is specific for each individual according to one’s mental set up) inside us which would guide us.

Content: Swamiji’s talk that day was highly inspirational. He also said, Ramakrishna says, ‘a man who takes sanyas and fails is 1000 times better than a man who doesn’t even try, I am very happy that you eight people have courageously come forward to commit yourself to the spiritual path.’ At the end of the talk, I realized what a great gift the Master was giving us and how much I troubled Him with my foolishness trying to take a decision.

Content: Just before the initiation started, Swamiji asked for a new song on Devi from a new album which had come from India recently. Ma Sachitananda tried to play the CD but the song did not play. She tried all the possible ways to play the song but in vain. Swamiji was waiting patiently to initiate us. Other ashamites also tried different ways to play the song. Ma Sachitananda said, This song is the third song on a CD with three songs. The first two songs are playing correctly. But by the time it comes to the third, the song does not play. She had transferred the same song from the same CD to an I Pod which played. But the I Pod was not loud enough. After a few minutes of struggling with everyone trying to play the song, Swamiji said Enough! I have all your programs, they are ready! I created this situation to see how you react. The initiation started and He blessed all of us that we would achieve the Eternal Bliss.

Content: Saatileeni Nee Oorpu Sarileenidayya

Content: Raayilaanti Manishilo Rakti Nimpaavayya

Content: Eelaagayina Ninnu Chusi Meemandaramu

Content: Maalo Bhaktini Penchutaamayya

Content: Asharsha Moorthy Vayya Nithyananda

Content: Nee Meeda Bhakte Maaku Kaavaalayya

Content: Your patience cannot be compared; no one has your patience and compassion. We are like stones and you filled blissful devotion in us. We are very fortunate to see You. By just looking at You our devotion is increasing. Devotion to Your form alone is enough for us.

Content: Teachers’ Training Joshua Tree:

Content: On Sep 2, 2006 Teacher’s Training at Joshua Tree started. The next day was the first Anniversary of LA ashram. It was just a year ago that the LA ashram was started. Yet it seemed as though a long time had passed with each and every moment filled with Swamiji’s presence and blessings. Swamiji announced this to the group and the participants wanted to know if they can be part of the celebration. Swamiji asked What would you like to do, how do you want to celebrate? There were many suggestions and one of them was a request for reminiscences of LA ashramites. Swamiji accepted all the requests. The same day, as the session was in progress, all ashramites were summoned to the main hall. When my term came to speak, I started by saying I met Swamiji in a discourse in San Jose. Swamiji interrupted and said, What Ma? You are saying as though you met Me in a disco. Did you meet me in a disco or a discourse? Please explain properly to them. Obviously He was making fun of my pronunciation. After a brief introduction, I invited personal questions regarding my experience with Swamiji. I answered questions about how I met Swamiji, my kid, my finances, relationship with my husband. All the ashramites spoke that day of their wonderful past one year in the ashram.

Content: I am able to see how each moment of the past one year had been so alive and energetic. How every moment in the ashram is fun filled. I could not imagine how my life would have been if I had not met Swamiji. Though I had no difficulties according to any social standard, I never imagined that life could be so beautiful. I feel so fulfilled and do not want to be anywhere else in the world. Words are not enough to express my gratitude to Swamiji.

Content: As I was explaining, I saw some participants getting emotional and weeping and I could understand why. Rajaji has explained my true feelings in my favorite song.

Content: Kurai Ondrum Illai marai moorthi kanna

Content: Kannukku theriyamal nirkinrai kanna

Content: Kannukku theryamal nindralum ennakku

Content: Kurai ondrum illai marai moorthi kanna

Content: Vendiyathai thantida Venkatesan ninrirukka

Content: Vendiyathu verillai marai moorthi kanna

Content: Tirayin pin nirkinrai kanna (2)

Content: Unnai marai odum Jnaniar mattume kaanbaar

Content: Endralum kurai ondrum enakillai kanna(2)

Content: Kundrin mel kallagi nirkindra Varada

Content: Kurai ondrum illai marai moorthi kanna(2)

Content: Manivanna Malayappa Govinda Govinda

Content: Kali Naana Kirangi kallile irangee

Content: Nilayaga Kovilil Nirkinrai Kesava

Content: Kurai ondrum illai marai moorthi kanna

Content: Yaadum marukkada malayappa (2)

Content: Un maarbil Ezghu taranikkum karunai kadalannai

Content: Enrum irundita edu kurai ennaku (2)

Content: Ondrum kurai illai marai moorthi kanna (2)

Content: Manivanna Malayappa Govinda Govinda

Content: Oh Kanna, the one who is hidden behind everything in this world, due to your grace I don't have even a single shortcoming or incompleteness or discontentment.

Content: Oh Kanna, Oh Govinda, I don't have anything left to be fulfilled

Content: Oh Kanna, you stand in a way that the eyes cannot perceive

Content: Even if you stand in a way that my eyes cannot perceive

Content: Oh Kanna, the mysterious one, due to your grace I don't have any discontentment.

Content: When you, the Lord Ananda Venkateshwara is standing just to fulfil all the needs and desires of everyone

Content: I have nothing more to ask for Oh Kanna

Content: Oh the one with the hue like a pearl, Malayappa, Govinda, Govinda

Content: You are standing behind the screen of Maya

Content: Only the Atma Jnanis who understand the inner meaning of the Vedas really SEE you

Content: Even then, I have nothing to worry about Oh Kanna (though I can’t see YOU)

Content: You are standing in the form of a stone on top of the small hill, Oh the bestower of all boons

Content: You have come down from your abode and put to shame the Kali, You have entered my inner space.

Content: You stand forever in the temple, Oh Kesava

Content: I have nothing left to ask for. For I am fulfilled due to your grace

Content: Malayappa, the one who never declines anything that is asked for

Content: When the mother of all the seven worlds (the seven charkas) who is the very ocean of compassion resides

Content: in your heart forever, where is the question of shortcoming or unfulfilled desires in me

Content: There is no discontent in me Kanna

Content: The lord who has a hue like that of a pearl, Malayappa, Govinda, Govinda.

Content: The highlight of the Joshua Tree was the arrival of the Kumbha Mela idols from India. They arrived

Content: packed in crates in a huge truck. They had specially come for the Kumbha Mela celebrations. All the

Content: seven idols representing seven chakras were decorated so beautifully. Swamiji said, The bramhacharies of

Content: the Bidadi ashram did all the decorations of the idols in just two days. The entire group had so much fun

Content: participating in unpacking the idols and their paraphernalia from the crate. That evening we saw a mini

Content: Kumbha Mela in that camp. The entire training program was filled with festivity and grandeur.

Content: Kumbha Mela:

Content: Kumbha Mela was celebrated at the end of teachers’ training. Swamiji was present at the venue from

Content: morning 7:00 am till the end of the festival at night overseeing the activities. He took care of each and

Content: every detail of the decoration of the chariots and finally participated with the devotees in the grand

Content: procession. It is the biggest, grandest, most colorful and electrifying event that I've attended. I am so

Content: fortunate to attend this event.

Content: With His energy and direction any massive task can be made into an easy and exciting job.

Content: San Diego gang:

Content: At the end of his trip in 2006, Swamiji was leaving for India. Some of us went to the airport to bid him

Content: a farewell. We were sitting near Swamiji after he had checked in his baggage. He started chatting with the

Content: group from San Diego. We have a nice friendly bond with this group and they always tease me for

Content: something or other. Once they teased me saying, “After you get enlightened, we will form a ‘Dayananda

Content: Foundation’, sit next to you and sing Dayananda, Dayananda. Satyananda with his usual mischievous face

Content: told Swamiji Swamiji, Dayananda Mayi has started a Dayananda Foundation. I suddenly got a shock and

Content: said to myself What? Satyananda, I will take care you later and didn’t know how Swamiji would react to

Content: it. To my utter surprise, Swamiji smiled at him and said, Eh, what will she do with it. Even if you scratch

Content: her skin, only My name only will come out. One more organization to spread My name.

Content: I heaved a sigh of relief. But whenever I think about that incident, it shows the amount of trust Swamiji has on His devotees. It is this trust that transforms and elevates us.

Content: Shatakooti Pranaamaalu Nithyananda

Content: Neeku Ananta Koti Panaamaalu Nithyananda

Content: Eemichhi Nee Runamu Teerchamayya

Content: Nee Karunani Manasantaa Nimpaavayya

Content: Nee Prema Okkate Maaku Chalunayya

Content: Thousand prostrates to You Nithyananda! Not enough! Infinite thousand salutations to You. What can we give You? Is there anything that is worthy to give? You filled our hearts with Your compassion. Your love alone is enough for us.

Content: You have showered your grace even on me, who has nothing to give You in return!

Content: Waiting for you

Content: Ee Srusti Neeve Ee Jagamu Neeve

Content: Ugaalenni Maarina Swaralenni Maarina

Content: Neeve Satyamu Neeve Nithyamu

Content: Oh Nithyananda Neeve Naa Praramu

Content: Nithyananda Nithyananda Nithyananda Nithyananda

Content: You are this creation. You are this whole world. Yugas may change, voices and people may change. But you are the truth and you are eternal.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: Neevu Leeni Jeevitamu Vyardhamaina Anubhavamu

Content: Nee Talapu Nindina Batuku Enta Madhuramu

Content: Oh Premavahini Tondaragaa Kadalira

Content: Nannu Karuninchi Ninnu Daricheranee

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa Pranam

Content: Without You life is an useless experience. Life is so sweet that is filled with Your thoughts. Oh! River of Love ! come soon quickly. Please let me reach You with your compassion. Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: !! Ee Srusti !!

Content: Naalooni Prati Anuvu Neekosam Vechenu

Content: Naa Manasu Nindaa Nee Talape Nindeenu

Content: Oh Premavahini ! Nannu Daricherani

Content: Nannu Maruvaka Neevu Kadaliravayya

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa Pranam

Content: Every cell of my body is waiting for You. I am filled with Your thoughts. Oh River of Love! Let me reach You. Don't forget me, come quickly.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: !! Ee Srusti !!

Content: Pratee Mokka Nee koosam Veechi Unnadaya

Content: Nee Padadhuli Sooki Paravasinchaalani

Content: Prati Mogga Nee Koosam Puvvulaa Vippari

Content: Nee Raaka Koosam Parimalistu Unnadayya

Content: Nee Medalo Maalanai Dhanyamavvalani

Content: Poovulanni Vaadaka Munde Kadaliraa Tvara Tvaraga

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa Pranam

Content: Every plant here is waiting for You. They wish to reach the purpose of their life with the dust of Your lotus feet. Every bud has turned into a beautiful flower, and radiating fragrance for You. They wish to become garland in Your neck, to fulfill their whole existence. Before these flowers get faded, please come quickly.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: !! Ee Srusti !!

Content: Pratee Pakshi NeeKoosam Palavarinchenayya

Content: Pratee Jeevi Nee Raakakai Kalavarinchenayya

Content: Nee Challani Needalo Seeda Teeralani

Content: Nee Karunatoti Tanivi teeralani

Content: Maata Raani Moogageevulu Nee Raaka Koosam

Content: Pari Pari Vidamuluga Palavarinchenayya

Content: Oh Premavaahini ! Vaati Meeda Daya Choopu

Content: Vaati Aasa Teerela Tondaraga Kadalira

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa Pranam

Content: Every bird is calling for You. Every being is looking for Your arrival. They want to rest under Your cool shade. They want to quench their thirst with Your compassion. They cannot speak, but they are expressing their restlessness, for Your arrival, in different forms. Oh! River of Love! Please show compassion on them. Come quickly for their sake.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: !! Ee Srusti !!

Content: Talupulanni Terachi Toranamu Kattamu

Content: Bhaja Bajantrilato Nee Kosam Veechamu

Content: Naaku Eeeme Arhata Unnadi Nennu Pilichenduku

Content: Poornakumbhamuto Neeku Swagamicchenu

Content: Naa Bhagyavasamuna Todaragaa KadaliRaa

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa PranamU

Content: I opened all the doors and decorated with mango leaves. I am waiting for You with all paraphernalia. But I don't deserve to welcome You. I welcome You with the Poorna Kumbham. To my fortune, please come quickly.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: !! Ee Srusti !!

Content: Eeme Chesi Ninnu Meppinchagalanu

Content: Naa Chinna Manasunu Manninchavayya

Content: Nee Raakamai Veechiunnanayya

Content: Naa Madi Ninda Neeve Unnayavayya

Content: Nannu Karuninchi Neelo Cheerani

Content: Oh Nithyananda ! Neeve Naa PranamU

Content: What do I do according to Your likes. Please forgive my small heart. I am waiting for Your arrival. I am filled with Your thoughts. Let me reach You with Your compassion.

Content: Oh Nihtyananda! You are my life.

Content: Ma Nithya Divyananda

Content: Ma Nithya Divojananda

Content: I sat gazing at His face, the most beautiful of all faces, soaking in the radiance and letting the words percolate into my being even as I wondered where I fitted into the whole scheme. My love for Him was unquestionable, but I was unsure whether what I felt was the love of a mother for her child, or the love of a disciple for her guru, or the love of the devotee for God or even the love towards a beloved. Swamiji had so many facets to His personality and He flitted from one to the other with such ease that it left me feeling giddy! Where was I indeed!

Content: I got the answer to that almost immediately. During Energy Darshan the same day, When I went up to Him, He gave me an extra long hug and smilingly told me that it was a special hug for His mom. Mom? Me? I looked questioningly at Him and He said, Yes, you are My mom! And He gave me another hug. I sat in the back, shedding tears of joy and gazed at Him with all my love and gratitude. At the end of the Energy Darshan, He gestured towards me to come near Him and gave me another hug – A special hug for my new mom! – He said, with that little boy look on His face!

Content: How can one resist such love? How can one not be moved by the compassion He showers upon us? How can one not be transformed by the wisdom of this little boy? The sheer wonder of it never ceases to amaze me! How blessed are we who have come into contact with Him!

Content: This incident happened in the beginning of 2005, about a year and a half after I first came into contact with Swamiji. I had heard of Him and seen hoardings of the meet in Salem, but had not

Content: given it much attention. I remember even thinking that nowadays such young kids consider themselves as gurus! Later, when I got to know of His healing powers, I suggested trying it to one of my close relatives who needed help. It helped and then she did the ASP and in turn suggested that I try it too. And so the story starts and there was no looking back after that. That was in the middle of~2003.

Content: When I first attended the ASP, it was more of a lark. It was supposed to be a fun course, so why not. I was not looking for anything specific, but was willing and happy to try anything with an open mind. What an experience it was!!!!! I hummed and screamed and jumped and ran like never before in my life. And enjoyed it thoroughly! My family did not hear the end of it for a long time. So great was the impact on me. Though I enjoyed the whole program, it was the Energy Darshan that got me hooked. I just could not help it nor could I stop. I just cried and cried till I was in a total state of peace, when the tears naturally dried up. I felt so calm and joyful after that and danced the night away! It was so strange. Even when I was crying I was not feeling any sadness. I just cried. Normally I would hold myself from making a fool of myself in public. But there I did not even feel like holding back.

Content: More than anything else, it was the look of compassion on Swamiji's face when He was giving healing to some of the people who had come there that stole my heart. Such immense love and compassion! Such a divine expression on His face! Who but the Divine Himself can be that way. It was that experience that decided for me that I would become a healer. At that time it was necessary to do two ASP's to become a healer as there were no NSP's then. So, at the earliest, I attended one more ASP and enjoyed it even more, if that is possible!

Content: As it happened, there was no healer's initiation immediately. So later I got to do the NSP and then got initiated as a healer. And the NSP!! Ohh! That was an experience worth dying for, no, worth living for. The sheer genius of the entity that formulated this program! Whatever samskaras one carries are just churned out of ones system and you can feel the difference within yourself like magic! And if that is not genius, what is? And in a lad so young, if that is not Divine, what is? Even as you are digging out your as yet undiscovered samskara, Swamiji is guiding and helping you every step of the way. You never feel that you are doing it on your own. Your Guru, your Mentor, your God, is always there with you, holding your hand and leading you towards a discovery of your true self! At the end of the program, there was no doubt in my mind that I had truly found my Guru and that I was not going to let go, no matter what happened.

Content: My next journey of self-discovery was on the first Himalaya tour where we were accompanied by Swamiji in May, 2004. After the experience of the NSP, the pull to be with Swamiji was so great that I just pushed aside all doubts that the mind could come up with and embarked on the journey. At the very beginning of the trip, I had a taste of the feast we were to have ahead. By mistake I had gone to the wrong entrance of the Yashwantpur railway station in Bangalore. I could see no one from the Nithyananda group and started getting worried as I was alone. I called Dhanashekaran Ayya's mobile and who should answer the phone but Swamiji!! I immediately recognized His voice and squealed out Swamiji. He very cautiously asked who I was. I told Him that it was Divoja and that I was a little worried as I could see nobody from our group. He said don't worry we will be there shortly. As luck would have it, Swamiji too came to the same wrong entrance that I was waiting in!! After a nice warm hug He pointed out the way to go. Isn't that what He

Content: is always doing? Pointing out the right way every time we go the wrong way and ask for His help. But remember to ask, remember to seek Him out, remember to reach for Him.

Content: Immediately after getting into the carriages, we found that the group had been split into two compartments. After some juggling, we all managed to get the seats. And again as luck would have it, Swamiji was in my adjacent coupe. It was quite late at night. So as soon as the train started moving we all got ready to sleep.

Content: As I was getting my berth ready, I banged my head on the berth above and was in severe pain. I felt a hand gently being placed on my head and looked up to see Swamiji smiling at me. Can any pain survive such a touch? My blissful Himalaya trip thus started with Swamiji's guiding hand and His blessings!

Content: The first halt was at Rishikesh. The highlight was the tarpan (offering to departed) we gave to our ancestors. After that we all got gleefully into the Ganga with Swamiji. One great thing about Swamiji is that even a solemn thing like offering tarpan becomes a joyful thing when you are with Him and takes on a new meaning and significance. So all of us were standing in the cold waters of the Ganga. The water there is freshly melted snow that flows as the waters of Ganga as the summer sets in. So the water was really cold. With chattering teeth we huddled close to each other both for the warmth and the security as the water flows with quite a force there. And we were all listening to Swamiji's jokes and jibes. Suddenly somebody in the group looked up to see that the water level had risen and all our clothes and things that were on the pier were wet through and through! As we romped around in the river the water had suddenly risen. We all scampered out and changed and came back for the initiation into sanyasa that He gave all of us for the duration of the Himalayan trip. Surprisingly, the level of the water had gone back to normal as soon as Swamiji had stepped out! Or, is it surprising?!

Content: During the second Himalayan trip in 2005, as we got off the bus at Gangotri, the wind suddenly picked up and a small whirlwind formed on the road. It was as if Nature was putting up a welcome arathi (fire offering) for Swamiji. The same thing happened in Gowrikund too. Truly, Nature communes with Him and listens to Him! On more than one occasion, when rain was likely to disrupt the program for the day, Swamiji had to merely wave His hand for the rain to dissipate.

Content: Another awe inspiring incident during the trip of 2004 was in Badrinath. We got to Badri in the evening and immediately had a whirlwind darshan of Badrinath. After a bit of shopping we got back to our lodgings. Some of the members of the group were not satisfied with the darshan and wanted to go to the temple again the next day. But Swamiji said that everybody was to assemble in the hall by 6 am for a discourse and that the darshan they had was enough. So naturally a trip to the temple was ruled out. Or so we thought. Some others thought otherwise. They got ready very early and wanted to visit the temple before the morning discourse began. Swamiji came on time and started the discourse and the for the first time Swamiji had the doors of the hall closed! Naturally those who went to the temple were late and could not attend the morning talk. At the end of the pre-breakfast session He told us that when a Master says something or gives some instructions, it is to be followed without any questions. While they had gone to get a darshan of the idol in the temple, they had missed the God in front of them! All of us sat there with our eyes closed and with tears rolling down. How blessed we were to be in such a presence!

Content: He stood up and raised His hands and said: I bless you all! With the energy that is there in this place, the energy of Vyasa and all the Rishis and Masters who have sat here and done tapas, I bless you all with all that energy! The place was pulsating with energy! There was not a dry eye in the whole group. We were

Content: blessed indeed! As if at a signal all of us rose to fall at His feet. And on the spur of the moment Swamiji said there would be an Energy Darshan. We had a long, leisurely darshan as Swamiji hugged and held each of us for as long as we wanted. We were then asked to reassemble after breakfast.

Content: During the break Swamiji walked away. Some of the devotees followed Him. They literally had to run as He was walking so fast. He came to an abrupt halt in front of a shop selling rudrakshi malas. He gave instructions for all the malas in the shop to be purchased and walked back. All of us got a mala each in a powerful ceremony. I felt as though the energy of Vyasa and all the rishis descended upon us! While with the Master one never knows what might happen next. The only thing one needs to do is to stay as near as possible to Him all the time so that we do not miss out on anything. Every minute spent with Him is a blessing.

Content: This message had come home to stay for all of us! The next day, in Joshimath, Swamiji gave us an option. We could stay in Joshimath with Him or go to Auli, a ski resort, on our own. You can imagine what everybody opted for! Not a soul moved from Swamij’s side the whole day! He rewarded all of us by just being with us the whole day, answering our questions, joking with us, posing for photos with us and wandering the streets of Joshimath with us. Basically He was suffusing us with His energy. The whole trip got over all too fast.

Content: It is when you live around the Master that He becomes more and more a part of your being. It was when Swamiji came to Salem for some program that my relationship with Him started deepening and blossoming. I first started taking some food for him as He was staying in a hotel. Then He started

Content: spending some days in our house. Caring for Him was a pleasure unanticipated. Truly a gift from the gods. A gift from my God, to be precise.

Content: I got an opportunity to paint some tribal art work in the ashram in the end of 2004. The bonus was the time I got to spend with Swamiji. NO!! The main thing I got out of it was the time I spent with Swamiji. I was painting something in front of the office, but kept an eager eye for the appearance of Swamiji. I had the ashram children keeping me company. They were as eager as me for Swamiji to come. The moment we spotted Him, all pretense of work was forgotten. During these breaks the paint kept drying and I lost many brushes in the bargain!! But who wanted to paint when Swamiji was around!!

Content: It is when one is fully relaxed that one can imbibe Him completely. Even when no talking is going on, just being in His presence in a relaxed way is enough. I learnt this during those few days with Him at the ashram. In the beginning, I used to feel a bit uncomfortable when there was a gap in the conversation. I used to feel that I was not making full use of His presence so I made sure I spoke enough. By and by, I realized that verbal communication is a poor substitute for silent communion. The silence seeps into you and cleanses you completely. It acts as a balm to all your doubt and questions, not answering them but erasing them. It brings a calmness within you that nothing or nobody can take away. It gives you a confidence in yourself that empowers you. At the end of the ten days I spent in the ashram during that stay, I could feel the difference in myself. Swamiji had worked wonders on my being. It was at the end of those ten days that I was made the new ‘mom’.

Content: My next stay in the ashram was when Swamiji started his discourses on the Shiva Sutras. I was a bit confused as to how I should behave towards Swamiji. I did not feel any differently towards Him. And yet I was His Mom now. Did I have to behave differently? Could I behave differently? Every time I even looked at Him, He would say: You are my mom now!! But can one help gazing at Him with a love lorn look?

Content: Ayya who has been with Swamiji from early days clarified the issue for me. When Swamiji calls anybody His mother, it is that person's attitude towards everybody that He is recognizing. The motherly love or the all encompassing love that is associated with a mother is what He sees in us. And He wants us to progress along that line to include everybody in the scope of that love. How lovely that is! What a beautiful path to go on!

Content: This was further brought home to me shortly after that when Swamiji was in Salem. Two of the young men in Salem started addressing me as 'Mom' in imitation of Swamiji. I jokingly complained about this to Swamiji in their presence. Swamiji promptly replied: Once you are My mom you are a mom to the whole universe. They have every right to call you 'mom'. So now you are Universal Mom! The two young men were highly pleased with themselves! Of course, I don't know who was more pleased with Swamiji's explanation, me or them!!

Content: There is no doubt about it, as the days go by, I fell a greater and greater love towards all those around me. It is a warm caring love that I feel. This happens even when I am conducting the ASP class. Some of the participants tell me that they feel I am like their mother and that I will and guide them! But that is exactly

Content: the way I feel towards them, no matter what their age. It is a non-judgmental love. It is an understanding love. It is an indulgent love. It is a liberating love for me too because it allows me to give, without the pain or attachment associated with love. It gives me an understanding of love itself. It is not exclusive, it is inclusive, as Swamiji puts it. It is a love that encompasses everything.

Content: Love as we understand it is always directed towards something or somebody, and is for a particular reason.

Content: But this is not what love really is. At the intellectual level we understand this, but the trick is to feel it, as an experience. A growth in that direction I hope is what will help me as a mom. His calling me His mom is of no benefit to Him. It is surely a means for me to grow. Understanding that and blossoming with that would make a true 'mom'. And Swamiji Himself is the best example for an understanding of love.

Content: Swamiji always shows different facets of Himself to us depending on the situation. Sometimes it is the love of a Master, sometimes of friend, at other times He is a loving child, yet another time He is a strict father, or He might be God Himself. So our role towards Him also varies according to the particular aspect of Himself that He is showing. When such is the case, how can we restrict our love to one type alone?

Content: The fact is that His love is all this and something more.. It is all this and none of these! It is we who try to put a tag to it, to classify it. It is not love of any one type, it is just LOVE. What He radiates towards us is an energy called love.

Content: It is when we try to put a tag and to analyze that we get into trouble. As long as we understand that it is an energy that Swamiji is directing towards us, we can relax and soak it in. And it is directed towards everybody who comes into contact with Him. Then you become a co-recipient of that energy with everybody else. It becomes a means of bonding you with everybody else. That is the meaning of the

Content: Nithyananda Commune. The energy binds us together. Our concept of love needs to be altered just a little bit for us to understand this and to be more comfortable not only with others but also with ourselves.

Content: So, by mid 2005, not only was I Swamiji's mom but also on the path to being a 'universal mom'! It is a concept that grows on you and in you. It is a progression towards becoming an embodiment of love itself. This is my understanding of it as of now. Swamiji has this uncanny knack of demolishing all the concepts or ideas you may have in your mind. And the same may happen to this understanding too!

Content: One of the most enjoyable times I have had in the ashram was during the Acharya Training program in 2003. During my earlier stay in the ashram, Swamiji had asked me to undergo the training. I had refused saying that I was scared of talking in front of a group of people. This was the first of my protests and the first of my reasons for not joining. To this Swamiji simply replied that I could do it. The next time the topic came up, I told Him that I am not a scholarly type of person and had not read much in the field of spirituality. If anybody asked me questions, I would not be able to answer. But he helped me to overcome this objection deftly.

Content: The first session of the first day of the program started with a very simple question. He asked how many of us did not feel confident about taking a class. Of the 63 who had come for the training, about 10-15 of us raised our hands in all humility! Later we realized it was our passive ego which obstructs our progress in many ways. We thought it was humility. What Swamiji called it was our passive ego. He asked us again, now how many of us felt incapable of taking a class. Not a hand went up! We did not dare even to look at Him!

Content: The second session started with another question. He asked us how many of us had prepared the way we had been asked to for the program. A paltry 3 or 4 raised their hands! That fact made way for another expression of Swamiji! The enthusiasm level of the participants was undeniable high, but the preparedness level was abysmally low!

Content: A strict schedule was set for our training. We tried to follow it diligently so that we could squeeze in informal sessions with Swamiji. All of us set to work. Some of us were helping put the training manual together. As we sat late into the night nothing seemed to be working out right. In a section describing beneficial aspects of meditation, one person suggested that it helps lose weight. I too nodded my head. But before it could be put down on paper, we heard Swamiji's voice telling us not to tell lies! We looked around but could not see Him anywhere. Then He pushed aside the curtains and showed His grinning face! He had been listening to all our pointless points!

Content: It was past midnight. He came in with a box of sweets and told us that it was Valentines Day and who else but we were His Valentines! And He fed us each with a sweet as we fell at His feet to take his blessings! It was so innocent and sweet of Him! That, of course, was the end of that days work! That does not mean that we went to sleep. It was fun time again for Swamiji, making fun and cracking jokes at each others expense.

Content: The next few days was a very frustrating period for all of us as nothing seemed to be getting done despite all our efforts. No matter how much we tried, we could not create a suitable training manual for the teachers. We were sure we knew the matter well and it was just a matter of penning it all in an organized way. And much to our consternation, Swamiji would walk in at any time and totally disrupt the proceedings with fun and

Content: banter. A very welcome break, of course, but it did not help us progress much in the text matter. After the

Content: second day, Swamiji asked us to assemble in front of His quarters in the evening. We happily put away our

Content: books and trooped down to His quarters. Swamiji was sitting on His swing while we sat on the floor in front

Content: of Him. He thoroughly made fun of our efforts at becoming teachers, imitating us and pitying Himself for

Content: having to rely on trainees like us! He also had great sympathy for our future students!

Content: This went on for a few days, till we all came to the understanding of what we were trying to do. We

Content: would sit late into the night in front of Him as He sat swinging in the dark. Some shedding silent tears at

Content: the wonder of the moment, some just soaking in his sheer presence, while being infused with His energy

Content: in a silent communion. This went on for a few days, till we all came to the understanding of how we were

Content: trying to work through our intellect. From the fourth day onwards, after the swing sessions with Swamiji,

Content: we found that things started sorting out and we were progressing in our training. It occurred to me later

Content: how Swamiji helped us see that we were full of our intellectual knowledge, and were trying to pour it all

Content: out. We realized we knew nothing, and this was a good starting point for Him to work on us. His word,

Content: that He would talk through us started making more sense only then. Till then we had all been trying to do

Content: our best to memorizing the material given to us. It had no life! Only later we realized, individually, that

Content: we had to just relax and let the knowledge flow through us.

Content: Teacher’s training was a turning point for most of us. The transformation from within that Swamiji promised

Content: had started then. Every class we conducted had a snowball effect. Even as I talk, I can see the teachings

Content: dawning on me with a renewed vigor and understanding. It just strikes you like a bolt of lightening and

Content: takes on a new significance. Wonders never cease as we continue teaching!!!

Content: Swamiji's words are only one source of learning. Every aspect about Him can teach us a valuable lesson if we are open. The way He behaves with people, the way He manages situations, the way He organizes things, all these are mere indications of His 'intelligence'. If we start imbibing even a few of these, it would be a major journey for us. All one needs to do is to observe Him all the time, be alert and aware. One does not have to remember individual incidents, just imbibing this attitude of the Master is a great transformation. Slowly one starts radiating it eventually.

Content: The level of awareness that Swamiji has is something incomprehensible to me. His attention is in a hundred different directions all at the same time. One classic example of this is during the Energy Darshan at the end of the NSP. We had a taste of it during his visit to Salem. There were 350 participants in a state if high excitement and energy. The energy darshan had been going on for sometime. Swamiji putting the rudrakshi mala, giving the darshan, hugging, reading the new spiritual name and giving the meaning, listening to their problem and blessing. Everything was happening at high speed. The volunteers around Him were in a tizzy keeping up with Him. He suddenly called one of the organizers and said that four participants had gone away upstairs and to bring them back down! In the middle of all that activity, His awareness was so high that He had seen a few people sneaking away upstairs on a partially hidden staircase! Then again, after a short while the organizer was called again. This time it was a couple of unauthorized people who had entered the hall. He had seen them over a sea of dancing heads, recognized them as being neither participants nor volunteers. This is the level of awareness He has at all times. It is mind boggling.

Content: He is always telling us to be in the here and now. Seeing Him doing all the hundred and one things simultaneously, one can get an idea of what He means by that. When you live in the moment completely, such awareness is possible, such spontaneity is possible, such intelligence is possible and Swamiji reminds us that it is possible for us to do it too. This way He constantly inspires us. We only have to consciously try till it becomes a way with us. When we think it is too much for us we start finding excuses for not even giving it a decent try. How simple it really is, He says: Just be!

Content: Don't even try, just be! Because trying itself keeps you away from being! In other words, just relax.

Content: During this trip I once offered Him some raisins. It was in a sealed packet and I had some difficulty in opening it. As I struggled with it, it suddenly burst open and the raisins spilled all over Him!! I didn't know what to do. I apologized for my clumsiness but it was so amusing that I started laughing. And Swamiji jokingly started lamenting for having such clumsy people to look after Him. He was definitely the Son speaking there. Such occasions make you suddenly sit up and wonder at your good fortune to be given such intimate instances with the Divine.

Content: During our 2nd Himalaya trip, I had a bad fall in Uttar Kashi and had a severe ligament tear in my ankle. We left for Gangotri the next morning. I was in severe pain and the bus ride didn't help matters. By the time we reached Gangotri in the late afternoon, my foot was badly swollen up and I limped my way to the room from the bus, a trek of about a kilometer. In Gangotri, the Ganga comes gushing down from Her birth place in Gomukh. It is a sight to see, the young, lively Ganga frothing Her way down from the heights, so vibrant and alive. She seems like a live being and She is! Swamiji greets Her like a long

Content: standing friend and companion, with such love on His face. She is not just a stream, She is an entity, She is Divine!

Content: As we enter Gangotri, there is a bridge to cross. I was limping my way across when Swamiji saw me from His room just on the other side of the bridge. He beckoned to me and asked how my ankle was. I showed Him the foot. He made me sit there immediately and gave it some healing. He was giving healing not only to my foot but also to my mind as I was very upset that I would not be able to go to Gomukh the next day.

Content: My ankle was much better after that and I was even able to do a little jig in the room to show that it was better. It is another matter that the weather prevented the whole party from going to Gomukh the next day. But I did manage to go on a long trek with Swamiji and the rest of the group instead. The whole trip was possible for me only because of the energy that Swamiji gave me during that healing session.

Content: Even with a hundred things to do and so many people to look after, His consideration for others never wavers. His love, compassion and presence is always felt when it is required the most. In fact, He quickly points out to His close disciples when they act inconsiderately towards others. He never fails to acknowledge things done for Him, no matter how small. Once shortly after making me His mom, I was asked to take care of Him during an NSP in Yercaud. What an honor it was and I could not believe my good fortune! I looked after Him to the best of my abilities. Looking back I can see that I had made so many mistakes and took minor liberties of talking to Him. But at that time I was blissfully unaware of all these shortcomings and thoroughly enjoyed the joyful task assigned to me. The joy must have showed on

Content: my face quite blatantly because at the end of those four days, Swamiji gave me a hug and said Thank you Mom for taking care of me with a smile on your face all the time! That wiped the smile from my face because my eyes were filling up with tears of gratitude to this great Master who is also my Son! He overlooked my short comings with so much ease and grace.

Content: Looking after Him is the ultimate joy. But it can also be stressful. Serving a Master is always very unpredictable. One never knows from moment to moment what He may do or what He may want. No planning is possible, no prior arrangements can be made, nothing can be foreseen. Just when you think you have thought of everything, Swamiji puts His finger exactly on the one thing you did not expect! There is only one way to deal with this. Do whatever you think you can do beforehand and then relax. Take it as it comes and you find that things work out just fine. In fact they work out much better sometimes than if you had planned it. I learnt this lesson fairly early as I found I could not handle situations otherwise.

Content: When Swamiji had come to Salem for a function with Ragini and all the ashram kids, I did my best to arrange everything. I knew I was tense. It was probably because I knew that Ragini took care of Swamiji so well and I did not want to fall short. On the very first day at home, He had His breakfast early and left for the venue. The rest of us followed shortly. I was carrying some milk and buttermilk for Swamiji. At around eleven in the morning He asked for breakfast! I was stumped! I told Him very mildly that He had breakfast and that I could give Him some milk or buttermilk if He wanted. Like a small kid He said, 'No, I'm hungry. I want breakfast.' I did not know what to do. I told Him I would get something and ran out. The food arranged in the venue got over too. I frantically searched for Ragini and asked her what to do. She calmly said, get some!

Content: I rushed home, got some food ready in a hurry and rushed back. A good half hour had elapsed by then. When I went to Swamiji's room He just said, Too late! He did not eat a morsel. I was shattered! Swamiji had asked for food and I could not give it to Him. I felt I was not worthy of looking after Him at all. That incident colored that whole stay of Swamiji. He must have felt it too. As He was leaving He asked, Was it too much Mom? It is difficult to cope up with my speed. I knew in a flash that it was I who had to decide whether I would cope or not. I knew that I would do it and I told Swamiji that I would be able to do it. That's it. I just had to make up my mind. I just had to tell myself that I could do it. Since then I have been more relaxed during His stays here. I have done things to the best of my ability and know that He will understand my shortcomings.

Content: The number of lessons to be learnt from Him is endless. One of His latest mantras is 'updating'. The problem with us is that once we learn something we tend to think we know everything there is to know. We forget that constant updating is required. This fact has been brought home to me on more than one occasion. Even in small domestic matters, this is relevant. Recently I cooked in my usual way for Swamiji. While eating He pointed out that I should find out how He likes His food now as His taste keeps changing. He asked me to update my cooking skills!! I don't think it was only related to food. As a Master he uses many tools to drive in the point.

Content: He never settles into any pattern. He never sticks to any routine. And He does not want you to so either. Because routine or a set pattern is stagnation and stagnation leads to decay. He is always vibrant and alive. He is ever changing. Just keeping pace with Him will keep you vibrant too. That is the reason life in the ashram is so invigorating. There is never a dull moment, never a moment of boredom. That is the reason

Content: life in the ashram is so alive and fun. That is life. That same vibrancy and joy can be brought into your lives no matter where you live. He shows through examples that one has to be sensitive to the direction he is pointing to.

Content: The pace now in the ashram is totally different from what it was even six months ago. So much is happening so fast that we who come from the outside to stay in the ashram for a few days find that we are only spectators to history being made in front of us. Swamiji is seen everywhere giving personal instructions and also overseeing things. The people closest to Him are the brahmacharis who have taken on the responsibilities on their young shoulders. They are always running here and there following Swamiji's bidding, light on their feet and fast to pick up every nuance of the Master. They are the lucky benefactors of Swamiji's endless love.

Content: During a recent stay in the ashram, we watched all the hectic activity around us as we sat in one of the dining huts while doing some work assigned to us. The whole morning we watched Swamiji as He was engaged in one activity after another. First there was a press appointment then a meeting with all the ashamites and then another meeting with some visiting dignitaries. We sat in fond hope that He would call us too and allow us to sit with Him. The hours went by and we started getting a little impatient. Finally by afternoon I could not stand it any more. I just sprang up and volunteered to go and ask Him for an audience. Obviously the same thought was 'going on in everybody's mind. So they concurred with me immediately. The mistake I did was to send the message with one of the ashramites instead of going myself. In the evening Swamiji addressed us and explained how we were stuck by seeking attention.

Content: Attention which can be a source of vital energy for some. He said Center yourself. It was evident that He wanted us to move from the Form to Formless and to take the next step.

Content: This act of His too was also out of sheer compassion of a Master. When every word and every act is taken as a lesson, you can grow from strength to strength.

Content: A true Master is one who sees your weaknesses and helps you to overcome it and make it your strength. This is what Swamiji says. How true this is of our Master. He puts His hand exactly on your tumor, exposes it and then helps you get rid of it. Helping you find your strength is easy, making use of your strength is easy. Finding your weak spot and helping you out of it, is what Masters do. All it requires is to surrender yourself to the surgical hand. Make yourself available for the Master to work on you. How simple!

Content: I am truly blessed to have such a Master. And I am doubly blessed for being able to call Him my Son!

Content: His face always has a freshness and innocence combined with an alertness and vitality that holds one’s attention. But the innocence is seen in all His acts. Once He heard me speak in Tamil and started making fun of it. He dramatically closed His ears and with a pained expression on His face implored me to stick to English! Of course we have an on going argument as to whether, my Tamil is better or His Kannada.

Content: And He is as relaxed and at ease with any company. He always has an air of confidence mixed with humility which captures everybody. It is truly a joy to watch Him with children. He is also like a child when He is with children. During one of His visits to Salem there were 8-10 children around and He was teasing them and getting teased by them also. One of them asked Him if He would play basketball with

Content: them. He looked shocked at first and then started teasing them about their audacity: Thousands of people are waiting to get just a glimpse of me and here you are asking me to play basketball. If somebody asks for me, the organizers can say that I am playing with the kids! After teasing them He suddenly got up and to the glee of everyone, asked for the ball! He started dribbling the ball and shot the ball a couple of times and. After about 7-8 tries He said He energized the board. He just waved His hands at the board, picked up the ball and neatly put it into the basket!! It was as easy as that! Needless to say, the trick did not work with anybody else! But the kids had a field day.

Content: The child in Him is more apparent when He is with children. But the shift between the various roles also happens so swiftly and smoothly that it leaves you gasping in wonder. Just when you are enjoying some leela of His, He zaps you with some profound statement. He is God, yes. He is my Son, yes. But He is a whole lot more also. And is also none of these. There no way I can tag Him. I cannot assume anything of Him.

Content: One can never get settled into any way of thinking. One can never assume anything as far as He is concerned. One cannot even expect the unexpected from Him, for that too is only a way of thinking. One can only enjoy Him in all His varied aspects. One can bask in His shower of energy all the time. One needs to just BE!

Content: For giving me this understanding and this comfort, I bow down humbly before Him, my Son, my God, my Master.

Content: When

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Content: Nithya

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Content: Ma Vivekananda Bharti

Content: Out of the blue Swamiji once called me ‘Mom’. I was surprised since I already have three kids. My mind started searching for a meaning. I said to myself since my kids call me ‘mom’ he is emulating them. On another day Swamiji explained that there were few people around him to whom he gives this title “Mom”. He also said that when he gives this name he really means it as well!!! I was thrilled to bits but tried not to show it, I don’t know why I wanted to hide my joy. Maybe because I wanted to be modest about it and not let it get to my head. At the same time I felt surprised because even though I revered Him as a Guru , a Swamiji clad in orange who was taller than me was showing me a strange affection and was calling me his mother ! I ask myself again and again Am I worthy of this love. How could Swamiji call me his ‘mom’!!! I could not see any connection. I couldn’t trace any lines of relationship either. How can it be? I thought it was just a passing phase and time would soon erase this strange feeling.

Content: After a few months when Swamiji revisited in Oklahoma the first words he uttered in his loud booming voice when he saw me was I MOM how are you??? I felt very shy and I thought Oh my gosh, everybody must have heard this!!! How silly of me? How do I get myself to accept this? Is this a joke? Is this a fluke? Is this a dream? How else could I explain? Me and Swamiji? Me his MOM? Never in my wildest dream did I see this happening.

Content: A year back Swamiji came and stayed in Oklahoma. When it was time for him to leave it felt as though Brindavan was losing Krishna. Everybody in our Satsang group was feeling sad. In a

Content: short time he had won over so many hearts with his sincere, truthful and honest words. As I touched his

Content: feet he hugged me and said I will always be with you ma. I said “Thank you Swamiji”, not fully

Content: understanding the power of those words. But as days passed I could fee his presence all around. Initially

Content: I thought it was my imagination or that my mind was playing tricks. But no matter how I tried to shake it

Content: off this feeling would not leave me. I took his presence around me so much for granted that I once told

Content: Swamiji that I don’t miss him as he is always with me. His quick reply was I missed you ma!!! This bond

Content: that Swamiji has allowed me to experience is strange one. I thank him for this great gift he has given me.

Content: A gift that I will cherish all my life. And a gift that no one can take away from me.

Content: The love that I feel from Swamiji is so unconditional. And I feel He wanted me to experience this aspect

Content: of it. While bringing up my three children I always felt there was a lot expected from me in terms of

Content: taking good care of them. But after experiencing this strange relationship with a son who does not demand

Content: anything of you, but instead just pours out his love and compassion, made me realize the beauty of

Content: unconditional love. He was waits for you to just take. He waits for you to receive in total!! I started

Content: incorporating in me this dimension of love while bringing up my children.

Content: Once Swamiji was getting ready to go to the Integris Hospital in Oklahoma. Here a team of scientists were

Content: going to study the state of his mind while he went into deep meditation. Before he left home his socks and

Content: slippers were brought. But to our dismay we realized that the socks had shrunk as they had just been

Content: washed!!! It was getting difficult to pull them on to his feet. Seeing my friend struggle I too tried to put

Content: the socks on to the other leg thinking it would be faster if the two of us tried together!

Content: Swamiji started telling us a story about how there was a master who had two disciples who were very jealous of each other.

Content: When one started pressing the leg of the master, the other one would soon start pressing the other leg.

Content: If the first one pressed hard the second pressed the other leg even harder.

Content: The first one saw her do that and got so mad that she broke the leg that she was pressing.

Content: The second saw this and got even more mad and broke the other leg of the master!

Content: Saying this Swamiji bent down and with one tug made pulled the socks onto his feet with no effort at all!

Content: Ragini( Ma Nithya Sachitananda) and I have been friends ever since she moved to Edmond ( Oklahoma) .

Content: We went for walks everyday and shared car rides too.

Content: I took her kids to school, and she picked my son from classes.

Content: We even shared our secrets recipes.

Content: We did many things together, from sharing macaroni and cheese dinners to eating double-ka-meeta made by Ammamma (Ragini's mother).

Content: We were inseparable.

Content: Even Amamma showed so much love for me and my family and always welcomed us with open arms.

Content: As Ragini got involved with Dhyanapeetam, she took off at jet speed and I struggled to catch up with her.

Content: But I knew I was nowhere near where she was headed.

Content: We had a strong friendship.

Content: Nothing came in the way of our relationship.

Content: As time passed and her family became strongly driven by their spiritual quest I knew I would loose her soon.

Content: Then came a time when they made up their mind to move to India.

Content: But they pestered Swamiji so till he gave in.

Content: I knew they wanted to go and Swamiji told them to wait a while.

Content: So I was hoping they would stay on and I would not loose my friend.

Content: When the time came for them to leave I felt quite lonely and knew that things would change a lot.

Content: When Swamiji stayed at her house I was practically living there all the time.

Content: I would iron Swamiji's clothes, and help with other chores that needed to be done.

Content: There I saw Swamiji reveal a unique affection

Content: of closeness to us. I felt like he read my inner most fear of loss and separation from a dear friend. He was helping me draw strength from this special affection he was showering on me. This helped me capture his presence in my heart and fill the void of losing a friend. Though I missed Ragini's family a lot and think of all the good times we had together, I have also been able to move on in life. Now I bank on my meditation to help me feel Swamiji's presence. Swamiji always told to me "I am with you ma". Little did it strike me then that all though I would loose my neighbor I would gain a divine relationship in the bargain. Since then I have become strong and have found more peace within myself.

Content: Although I feel I have a long way to go on my spiritual path Swamiji has shown me that I am special too and I am now on the right path.

Content: Ma Ananda Turiya

Content: Ma Ananda Turiya

Content: The Mystery of Divine Relationship

Content: "The love that mothers have for their children is expressed in many ways- in actions and in words. This journal provides a place for the appreciation, admiration and gratitude that are in my heart for my Swamiji but all too often goes unspoken."

Content: One fine evening, after a busy day at work, I was checking emails at home. One of the emails had the subject line: "When God is my son——————calling all Moms! This subject line caught my eye and I felt a strong urge to open it first. While reading, I couldn’t believe that the divine call has been made to all of Swamiji’s Moms who belong to His Moms Club. It was a golden opportunity that given to all Moms to pour their Vaatsalya Bhaava towards Swamiji and share it with everyone. As everyone knows, Vaatsalya-Rasa is as delicious as nectar. Instead of writing my journal that day, I embarked upon a beautiful journey down memory lane tasting the nectar.

Content: I felt my Ananda Gandha chakra was exploding, while I was recording in my mind countless blessings and love that Swamiji showered on me.

Content: Bhagavatam describes five kinds of relationships with Lord Krishna: Shanta (feeling of peacefulness), Daasa (feeling that “I am a servitor of Krishna”), Sakha (feeling that “I am a friend of Krishna”), Vaatsalya “Krishna is a child and I am Krishna’s Mom” and Madhura (mood that “Krishna is my beloved”).

Content: Ma Ananda Turiya

Content: The Mystery of Divine Relationship

Content: "The love that mothers have for their children is expressed in many ways- in actions and in words. This journal provides a place for the appreciation, admiration and gratitude that are in my heart for my Swamiji but all too often goes unspoken."

Content: One fine evening, after a busy day at work, I was checking emails at home. One of the emails had the subject line: "When God is my son———— calling all Moms! This subject line caught my eye and I felt a strong urge to open it first. While reading, I couldn’t believe that the divine call has been made to all of Swamiji’s Moms who belong to His Moms Club. It was a golden opportunity that given to all Moms to pour their Vaatsalya Bhaava towards Swamiji and share it with everyone. As everyone knows, Vaatsalya-Rasa is as delicious as nectar. Instead of writing my journal that day, I embarked upon a beautiful journey down memory lane tasting the nectar.

Content: I felt my Ananda Gandha chakra was exploding, while I was recording in my mind countless blessings and love that Swamiji showered on me.

Content: Bhagavatam describes five kinds of relationships with Lord Krishna: Shanta (feeling of peacefulness), Daasa (feeling that “I am a servitor of Krishna”), Sakha (feeling that “I am a friend of Krishna”), Vaatsalya “Krishna is a child and I am Krishna’s Mom” and Madhura (mood that “Krishna is my beloved”).

Content: Vaatsalya Bhaava: feeling that “Krishna is a child and I am Krishna’s Mom” has a distinguishing quality of its own. Within two meetings with Swamiji, I felt that in my relationship with Him. The affection increased and developed into what is called maternal love. The mood of fear and the consciousness of the superiority of the Supreme Lord diminished. (Now I know the reason why I don’t fall on my Swamiji’s feet but embrace him like my own son.) The sweet word “Vaatsalya” itself melts your heart. This love that pours from your being has no boundaries, no contracts or contacts. You cannot measure this love as it is divine and purest of all. Just remembering my naughty Nanda lala Swamiji’s face brings tremendous joy and a big smile on my face. Vaatsalya Bhaava that pours from our heart is the highest point of love which is pure and the ultimate one. Swamiji says, the Vaatsalya Bhaava goes beyond God and Guru.

Content: Divine Call: Blessings comes in many forms.

Content: Come along with me on this beautiful journey and I’ll reveal the mystery behind this Mom and her divine relationship with her son (Swamiji’s). Is it possible that within a 3 day period, a total stranger comes into your life without your knowledge, sweeps you off your feet in bliss and gives you the key to open up your inner treasure: Consciousness ? For a logical mind this sounds impossible. People ask me when, where and how I met Swamiji. Even before I answer them, a blissful smile comes from deep within to light up my face.

Content: Last year in April 2004, one of my colleagues Swapna, whom I knew for just 4 months, looked very tense. We were in the same vanpool, and while coming back home she mentioned that someone requested their family to host a Swamiji from India. She said hosting is not a problem, but the problem was in

Content: answer was “No”. Moreover we had made prior arrangements for the weekend. Swamiji held my hands and said Ma you should attend this program. Still my answer was ‘No’. I was foolish to even ask Swamiji if I could attend just one day session instead of both days.

Content: The Divine had a different plan for me. As per Mary Baker Eddy’s book Science and Health: “ANGELS. God’s thoughts passing to man; spiritual intuitions, pure and perfect ....” That's one way He provides us with divine guidance—through thoughts and spiritual intuitions. Since my childhood I have experienced that God has continuously guided and sent spiritual intuitions. Sometimes playfully, I would predict my son Varun’s hockey game results, but had to stop when once his team lost. He begged me not to predict scores anymore.

Content: Around 2.30 a.m, we decided to follow divine guidance which came as a strong intuition to join the meditation workshop. Swamiji wasn’t even surprised to see me there. This clearly shows that Swamiji knew with his divine sight that I would attend the workshop. Was the divine guidance that came as a strong intuition early in the morning transmitted by Swamiji?

Content: The first day of ASP was totally mind blowing. During Energy Darshan when I went to take blessings, I got a warm hug from Swamiji. He smiled and said you are my mom.

Content: I couldn’t feel my body or his as I felt my being just merged with the divine. All I could utter during that time was Thank you, Thank you, Thank you…… My soul, my spirit, my life, seemed to be taking on new meaning. Divine Love is like flying in love and after the ASP, something else seemed to be going on with me that was bigger. I was blissfully dancing around the house and singing gurudeva nityadeva. My

Content: kids, Nikita and Varun were asking me questions like Mom are you on drugs, is that why you are floating?? My husband thought I would now be packing my bags soon to join the Ashram. Even my Mom in India was a little concerned and reminded me not to ignore family responsibilities and not behave like a free bird. My soul wanted to fly free of the restraints of the earth bound body aspiring upwards, seeking the heavenly light. My belief in GOD has strengthened more than ever as I firmly believe that we have a constant communication with God, and that He responds to our need for guidance and direction in life. Billion thanks (Koti Koti Pranam) to God for showering divine love on us. Billion thanks to Swapna for introducing my Son to me.

Content: Gratitude Prayer #1

Content: My dear Swamiji please accept my heartfelt gratitude

Content: For giving me a wonderful chance

Content: To flower into this ultimate motherhood

Content: By calling me MOM which is divine.

Content: Did I tell you how special you are

Content: My lil Swamiji, you are wonder of wonders.. You are brighter than a druva star.

Content: Different expressions of my divine son Swamiji that are captured in my heart:

Content: Swamiji, the Naughty one:

Content: Swamiji says” Why do seekers think they have to be serious? Why should you be serious when life itself is for celebration?”

Content: Soon after the ASP, Swamiji and crew were getting ready to leave. Ma Sachitananda whispered in my ears that we should get some warm clothes for Swamji. I felt so lucky, and that day all I could see in every

Content: store was orange color warm clothes. While shopping, my eyes spotted a warm dawn jacket in orange color. I picked it up thinking that it would be useful for Swamiji during his Himalayan trip. Along with that I spotted beautiful warm cuddly slippers in furry dog shape. The day Swamiji was leaving New Jersey I presented these two items to my divine son. I captured every scene that unfolded after that in my heart. Swamiji was so excited to see the slippers, he started laughing. After trying it on his lotus feet he decided to wear the doggie slippers and go to the airport. That day Swamiji was in a very playful mood. No one could get him to take off those slippers as he was serious about wearing them all the way to Seattle. Anyhow, between two Moms he had to surrender. Next thing we noticed, Swamiji was trying out his new jacket. Like a teenagers, the jacket was tied around his waist. Suddenly we noticed the tag hanging from the jacket. But he continued to be in his playful mood so Swamiji didn't let anyone come near him to cut the tag. At the airport, our family was enjoying the divine sight of teenager-swamiji with the tag hanging from his jacket (somehow the tag did come out before he boarded the plane!). My heart swells with love and gratitude towards Swamiji for showing us his Bala Leela.

Content: The next incident happened during our trip to Niagara Falls. The day before the discourses started, there was a gap of one day for Swamiji to relax. Around 10 p.m I casually mentioned to Ma Sachitananda if swamiji would like to see the Niagara Falls. Once we got his permission within 15 minutes everyone was ready and sitting in the van heading towards Niagara (a 7 hrs drive). Swamiji was thrilled to see God's beautiful creation. He was so excited to see the rainbow over the falls and declared that it appeared specially to greet him. Ma Sachit mentioned to him that rainbows were a normal occurrence in that area but in his playful mood Swamiji insisted they are here to greet me. To our wonder every photo we took

Content: that day appeared to be amazing. The rainbow did indeed look like it was shooting from Swamiji's

Content: Sahasrara (crown center) or forming a colorful halo around him.

Content: Swamiji, the humble one:

Content: Remembering the humble side of Swamiji touches my heart. During Swamiji's July 2004 visit to New

Content: Jersey, we had arranged Swamiji's interview with TV ASIA. On the way back home, Swamiji was so

Content: touched by our arrangements, that he held my hands said thank you Ma. Till we reached home my hands

Content: were in his and I could feel the divine love pouring. We knew that the interview was indirectly set-up by

Content: him but he was still giving us all the credit.

Content: During the same visit, one of Swamiji's discourses was at Manhattan, New York. After the discourse I

Content: offered to drive Swamiji and his crew around the city. While chatting, I mentioned to Swamiji how my 14

Content: yr old daughter Nikita feels a little jealous of him (sibling rivalry?) as I spend lesser time with her now.

Content: Hearing this Swamiji as humble as ever said to her just one more week Nikita and then mom will be all

Content: yours.

Content: When Swamiji visits with his crew, lots of boxes carrying Ananda Galleria materials and their suitcases are

Content: lying on the first floor of my house. One day, Swamiji noticed all the boxes in our dining room and felt

Content: bad. Swamiji said humbly, sorry ma, we are making a mess in your house. I felt very touched and I

Content: reminded him that it is his house and he has every right to make a mess.

Content: Every host family knows that Swamiji is not a picky eater. He humbly accepts anything cooked with love.

Content: During his first visit I was a bit scared to cook for him as I didn't know how to prepare Andhra/ Tamil

Content: 257

Content: style. But not once did I hear a complaint. Once he liked the Puliyogre (tamrind rice) that I made for him.

Content: He said it reminded him of his Sanyaas (wandering days) days where he used to get a handful of rice

Content: from the village people. He would cook this rice in his Kamandala over a slow fire and mix the cooked

Content: rice with some salt and freshly squeezed tamarind juice. That would be his food for the day. A young boy

Content: coming from a well to do family led the life of a sanyaas and was living on such simple food. This

Content: though just melted my heart. I felt, I wish I was there to cook and feed my Swamiji.

Content: Once when we arranged the Nithyananda Spurana Program at our place, some participants decided to cook

Content: food in our kitchen during the breaks. I was very upset with this arrangement since I thought the hustle

Content: and bustle in the kitchen and the aroma of cooking would spoil the atmosphere for meditation. During a

Content: break Swamiji called me and showed me how he applies the paste and kumkum (vermillion) on his

Content: forehead and explained to me the ingredients and meaning of applying this special powder. I admired the

Content: deep maroon color of that powder and totally got lost in his Bindi (dot on the forehead). I felt so peaceful

Content: that I didn't have a clue how my tension disappeared in a minute. I realized that he must have felt my

Content: tension and it was in his divine plan to calm me down.

Content: Swamiji and his 'laughing meditation'

Content: Swamiji says Laughter is the royal route to the Nithya Ananda State (Eternal Bliss State). Laughter puts

Content: you in instant touch with Prapancha Shakti - the Energy that sustains all of Existence.

Content: I was very surprised to see my husband Ramnath taking a keen interest in the ASP and NSP. But the

Content: biggest surprise was when he also showed his interest in becoming a healer. I was happy and told Swamiji

Content: that if Ramnath becomes a healer, he could give me healing whenever I have a headache. Hearing this Swamiji laughed loudly and with a twinkle in his eyes said, yes Ma he can massage your leg too!. Just a few months later, I sprained my leg and anyone can guess what was going in our house. But Swamiji had the first hand vision of this long before it took place!! .

Content: Usually when we travel Swamiji sits in the front seat and the ladies sit in the back seat. Sitting in the back Ma Sachit and I chat, whisper and giggle. Somehow Swamiji knows what exactly is going on behind him (remember he has 360 degree vision, you cannot fool him). He would then playfully comment, Next time I am not going to ride with these oldies. The kids would crack up at his witty comments. Because of this comment my 15 yr old daughter is now counting days to take her driving lesson so she can drive Swamiji around when he visits NJ next time.

Content: During his stay the house is always filled with his laughter. During his 2005 New Jersey visit, he met with the satsang group and our newly graduated Life Bliss Program (LBP) students. I meekly said Swamiji these are my LBP students. Swamiji, addressed them said in a lighter vein "What, you all survived her LBP?" I am surprised! The crowd had good fun that night.

Content: During the healer's initiation we realized that we didn't have enough copies of the healer's guideline books. One of our friends went to Kinko's and got the books photocopied. After Sri Bhakatananda I took the group through the introduction and other formalities of the Healers Initiation Program, Swamiji arrived to initiate the Healers. Even before he opened the copies of the handouts, he asked who printed this. With his divine sight he exactly knew there were pages missing in the booklet. And he also knew exactly which

Content: pages were missing too. Even now when we meet for satsangs we recollect this incident and have a good laugh.

Content: We had purchased a hand carved Jaroka (Jaipur hand crafted window) set. For the past one year, my husband didn’t get a chance to hang them. During every visit to New Jersey Swamiji would look at those window sets sitting in our dining room and laugh. Last week when I came to know about Swamiji’s visit to New Jersey, I reminded my husband Ramnath about the possibility of Swamiji commenting on those sets and laughing once again. And I thought probably at least now the time had come for the sets to adorn our walls. But Ramnath came up with a different plan; he hid them in the garage instead. When we picked up Swamiji at the airport, the first question Swamiji asked Ramnath in the van was by the way, did you get a chance to hang those carved sets? I couldn’t stop laughing at that remark since I had warned Ramnath before hand. Even before he entered our house Swamiji had already has a vision of our ‘little plan’.

Content: Gratitude Prayer #2

Content: Swamiji, the great GURU, the ultimate master:

Content: I am ever so grateful to you my dear Swamiji

Content: For saying, Jagrat (wake up), Jagrat (wakeup)

Content: And calling forth the truth which was in deep sleep…

Content: With your divine influence

Content: You brought forward the awareness

Content: To find and expand our field of consciousness

Content: Swamiji says” A Master is the Master Surgeon who removes the ultimate cancerous tumor in you – your EGO”. He uses his knife to operate and penetrate your Being. He creates a Space in you so that you are automatically awakened.

Content: After marriage, I discovered that life in the west was a harsh reality (life mostly revolved around cooking, cleaning and doing other mundane chores). In spite of that, I tried to keep myself busy with activities that filled me with joy, like arranging parties, doing interior decoration, painting, teaching music to kids etc.

Content: Still I felt I had been uprooted from my golden heritage. I strongly felt that something was missing in my life in spite of leading a very comfortable life with my very supportive husband and two beautiful kids. I tried to compare my life in the west with my life in the India where I had nothing but bliss, where everyday I was surrounded by divine love.

Content: For the last few years, I had been feeling that all our socializing and relationships seemed superficial except when I arranged gatherings for group pooja (prayer) during special festivals.

Content: Around that time I was very sensitive about receiving any criticism from people. Everything fell into place when Swamiji explained during the Ananda Spurana Program workshop about Anahata charka. He said beautifully “the problem is not with others but YOU!

Content: Criticism is a negative energy. Don’t become part of emotional slavery. Emotional dependence on others is psychological slavery. Never invest in other’s opinions that they become the center of your life. Don’t make others your energy source. Be your own inspiration source. Instead, center your personality and values within yourself, based on what your intuition and higher experiences of energy reveal, regardless of what others think.

Content: To be free, you must face your aloneness.” My Guru’s words were right on the track and the truth hit me like a bolt of

Content: lightening. To avoid loneliness, I was running away from facing aloneness and instead organized parties. Consciousness is freedom. I soon realized that all my so called monthly social parties were worthless. Being with others is just a way of escaping from myself. That’s why I socialized a lot. Swamiji says beautifully, we have forgotten the sweetness of solitude! To be free, you must face your aloneness.

Content: The lesson that I learnt from my guru totally changed my lifestyle. I realized that the inward journey is a bigger adventure than the outer world journey. This divine call made by Swamiji in the year 2004 was indeed a blessing in disguise where I learnt the simplest truth for leading a blissful life. The greatest miracle is the transformation of the self, the realization of unity with all.

Content: Another great gift that my Swamiji gave is molding us into acharyas to spread the bliss to others. However even after I graduated as an Acharya I had doubts if I could teach well. But as I started conducting the Life Bliss Programs I realized that ‘I’ wasn’t speaking and there was so much inner transformation happening with each program I conducted. Like Swamiji says “preaching is practicing”. My lifestyle underwent a drastic change without my knowledge. Now I couldn’t stand the sight of non vegetarian food and frivolous socializing. I was leading a simple life and feeling very satisfied it.

Content: I was never comfortable being the center of attention or having the spotlight on me. Since childhood I was given the impression that to be humble one should work from behind the scenes. But once, just a few minutes before the discourse began, Swamiji told me “Give the introduction”. I was terrified, and with a shaky voice I started, I would like to introduce Swamiji…… and my mind went blank as I was searching for Swamiji’s full name. Luckily I spotted the banner behind the stage which had his smiling face and his full name. Slowly I felt my memory returning. Anyway, I somehow managed to give a brief introduction

Content: with a trembling voice and shaking hands. My kids in the audience enjoyed themselves. I could hear them giggle. Even now they mimic my speech which barely had three lines. That day my Swamiji gave me a clear understanding that taking the centre stage is not always about being egoistic, a notion I had harbored since childhood and prevented me from coming forward on any occasion.

Content: Swamiji gave us the true meaning for prayers.

Content: With the little knowledge of mantras and pujas (prayer) that I had I considered myself very religious. But Swamiji’s knowledge brought awareness to how I drifted away from performing the true essence of performing puja. Many times I hurried through the puja or rattled away the chants because I had not time. But now my prayer time is so blissful. I just fall into a meditative mood without any effort. With this new understanding of prayers and meditation, I now experience a strong bond and divine communion between the supreme Lord and myself.

Content: As a kid, I recollect my family members making fun of me when they saw me cry during bhajans (devotional singing). They called me an emotional person. But I felt so relieved when Swamiji explained the meaning behind tears of gratitude. Also now I don’t follow any rule for the amount of time I spend while chanting. For now I know, what matters is the intensity with which it is done and not the time duration. These days prayer time makes me intoxicated. During Pooja (prayer), I feel like remaining immersed in the ecstasy of God-vision for ever.

Content: “All change is a miracle to contemplate but it is a miracle that happens every instant.”

Content: Gratitude Prayer #3

Content: I am ever so grateful to you my dear Swamiji

Content: For showing the pathway to divine love!!!

Content: For bringing awareness of divine in and around myself

Content: By teaching me how to establish a communication line

Content: Between myself and God thru meditation.

Content: You are an expression of the almighty,

Content: Who gave me an assurance that we all are divine

Content: Koti Koti Pranam to your lotus feet my dear

Content: These are Swamiji's words: Meditation always brings about miracles - but not the sort that you imagine.

Content: Miracles are not about materializing items from thin air or levitation, or sustaining eternal youth. The

Content: greatest miracle is the transformation of self, the realization of unity with all. And this miracle you will

Content: certainly experience with meditation! This is my promise.

Content: During a brief stopover at New York enroute to LA we had the golden opportunity of having Swamiji stay

Content: at our place (only for 4 hrs). The divine love that my Swamiji pours forth is so soothing that one can just

Content: melt. At the airport I got a warm hug from my son. But the very next day, when my son Varun visited me

Content: he forgot to hug me as he was in a hurry to go out. I reminded him that my other son gives me hug

Content: without fail. Niki my daughter commented now you know who mom loves more, her other Son!

Content: Swamiji is indeed an Avatar: I consider Avatar as a supreme consciousness in human form incarnated

Content: directly on earth for a specific purpose. The purpose has been mostly to awaken the consciousness in all

Content: of us.

Content: 264

Content: My other two kids go patiently listen to me as I sing this song every now and then.

Content: You captured my heart with tenderness

Content: You filled my heart with divine love

Content: The motherly love that I feel towards you

Content: Is beyond the stars above

Content: Your beautiful smile always assures me that you "Care"

Content: Your beautiful eyes always sparkle with kindness and warmth

Content: Your beautiful lips always utter" Mom, I love you"

Content: You'll always be in my heart

Content: And I'll always love you oh divine son!

Content: When God is my son

Content: 265

Content: Ma Nithyananda Premeshwari Mayi

Content: Ma Nithyananda Premeshwari Mayi

Content: It is an exhilarating and amazing experience which quite frankly I don't know if I can truly describe in words. But since I've been given the honor of being a "mom", as swami often calls us, I shall try my best to share my feelings and thoughts with everyone. Whatever I convey accurately is solely due to Swami's grace and blessings. Forgive me if I convey any negative emotions or ideas, that must be entirely due to my shortcomings or inability to express my deepest feelings correctly.

Content: I am a 31 year old woman, married but without any children. My parents often tried to convince me to have kids. But it always seemed like too much work and responsibility to handle, and I never felt ready for it. Two years ago, my brother and sister-in-law had their first child. The baby boy was named Rahul. I met him first when he was three months old, and found him to be quite adorable. As I kept seeing him with every visit to Chicago, I began to fall in love with Rahul. He was so utterly innocent and cute, that when I was with him, I dropped all my defenses and just enjoyed every moment. Time flew when I was with Rahul. Every minute and every day felt like a new day with many new joys to discover. The fact that he was a very happy and friendly baby made him even more lovable, and he was an instant sweetheart with all who came his way. He was, like any other child, totally living every moment and completely only in the present moment. Of course, he was not yet taught about worries and conditioned by all of us, by society, to be bogged down by it and let the present moment slip away. When I was with him, I too felt completely relaxed, deeply enjoyed every moment, became totally carefree

Content: and lost all awareness of time. Rahul's actions were so pure and innocent with no vested interest, that seemed infectious and all who were in his presence become the same way, atleast for a few moments. Often times, when I was sad or upset, just looking at a picture of Rahul smiling would make me forget my worries and put me in a joyful state of mind!

Content: I often wondered how children are so happy, bubbling with joy all the time, without a care in the world, so innocent and lovable! I began to question why I was not that way in my daily life? How did I lose touch with this lovely state that I too must have once experienced as a child? How do I return to that state again? I had heard my father talk about great spiritual masters when I was growing up and felt I might find some answers there. I turned to books by Swami Vivekananda and Ramana Maharishi and found some guidance there. It was at this time that I had a chance encounter with Swami Nithyananda and attended his meditation workshop called Ananda Spurana Program (or ASP) in India. The workshop was an eye opener for me, and it answered all the questions that were on my mind. Swami explained many things in such a simple way that he made the problems of life look almost silly! I felt I had so much to learn from this wonderful young master. Although he was younger than me by a few years, his wisdom seemed timeless.

Content: I had the good fortune of spending a week in Dhyanapeetam, Swami's ashram in Bidadi, near Bangalore, which transformed my life completely. The beauty and grace that Swami exudes needs no mention, all who have met Him know it first hand. The wisdom that flows in His words is also heard and admired by those who have attended His discourses and workshops. Beyond the obvious, there was something I experienced in His presence during that one week in the ashram. It was a sense of utter peace and bliss, where I lost

Content: track of time. It was the same state of mind I experienced whenever I was with Rahul! I was totally relaxed, not feeling that I was being judged in any way.

Content: The time I met swami was also a time of turmoil in my personal life. But just being in his presence simply altered my state of mind. It was very hard then for me to explain it in words to my parents, and it still seems very hard to explain it in words now, but I will attempt it. It can surely be experienced though, and I met many people at the ashram who had similar experiences in the presence of Swami.

Content: A week in the ashram gave me a glimpse of the different dimensions of Swami. When He was doing administrative work, He acted like a CEO, a manager and all levels in-between! When He was with the kids in the ashram, He became one among them, joking around and teasing the adults around Him.

Content: When He would see people who came for healing, He became a mother, overflowing with love and compassion for the sick. When He would gather the ashamites and talk to them, He seemed like a father, firm yet helping them see their mistakes while lovingly guiding them along the right direction.

Content: When He conducted the pujas, He seemed so knowledgeable of the rituals and traditions, He looked divine. When He was with the “moms” at the ashram, He became a playful child.

Content: I was awestruck by His multidimensional personality, and the ease and effectiveness with which He slipped in and out of these different roles and moods. I understood that the enlightened state from which He was operating was the key to it all.

Content: Suddenly I realized I had fallen in love with his state and was consumed by a strong desire to reach the same state, to experience the nithya ananda, the bliss that Swami seemed to be in eternally, no matter what role he assumed.

Content: I was convinced that the key to transcend all my troubles and turmoil lay within myself, and that enlightenment

Content: is the path and the goal. Thus began my journey for, with and in Nityananda, and since then there has been no turning back.

Content: I have been truly blessed with opportunities to interact with Swami during my visits to India and Swami's visits to the US. Every moment in Swami's presence is an experience that is hard to describe in any form.

Content: Those who have not experienced what I'm talking about find it all very strange and difficult to understand.

Content: Those who have experienced it know exactly what I'm talking about and agree completely. It is much like Swami's description of death - those who know cannot talk about it, those who talk about it do not really know it! In His presence, there is a pervading sense of bliss and peace in the midst of a flurry of activities. We would be on our toes all day and sleep very little, yet feel energetic and happy rather than tired and grumpy!

Content: During one such occasion to be with Swami, He called me Nityananda Premeshwari Mayi! He declared I was the youngest mom! It was such an honor and privilege that I couldn't believe my ears! I felt very touched that I would have the opportunity to serve Swami just as a mother attends to the needs of her child.

Content: Although I had not experienced a mother-child relationship before, I had a glimpse of it when I was with Rahul. But Swami was about to show me how deep and beautiful the vatsalya bhava could be.

Content: There is a song in Tamil that goes: "what penance did Yashoda do to receive lord Krishna as her child?

Content: Even the saints and sages did not have the privilege of playing with Krishna, tying him to a rock, seeing the universe in his mouth, or rocking him to sleep!" Yashoda was truly blessed and I felt the same way when I joined the mom's club of Swami!

Content: As a mom, I get to see the naughty little playful Krishna in Swami whenever I have the opportunity to serve him. One moment He would be the fountain of wisdom and knowledge, talking spontaneously without any notes to hundreds of people about the ultimate truths from the Upanishad. The next moment he would be full of mischief and joy, pulling our legs, enjoying his own pranks, and laughing at the supposed grown-ups making a complete fool of themselves! Being in His presence is like being with Rahul, and much more! Every quality I saw and admired in Rahul, I see in Swami too, like being totally in the present moment, filled with infectious bliss that instantly transforms anyone around Him, loving in a pure and innocent way, not judging anyone, accepting everyone as they are, being in the timeless zone and leading whoever holds his hands also into that zone of freedom and bliss, where every moment is new and waiting to be discovered; with no vested interest in all His actions, except to inspire and help us find our true self, our true child-like nature! The difference is, most probably Rahul will grow up like the rest of us and lose touch with his innocent and happy nature, while Swami proves to us day in and day out that is it possible to remain pure, innocent, blissful and yet be worldly wise at the same time! There is nothing one can do in His presence, but melt into His love and dissolve in the ocean of Nithyananda!

Content: I now experience the joy of having a son, but without the responsibility of raising a child! It cannot get any better than that! God answered my prayers to experience motherhood, by himself becoming my son!! Everyday I thank Swami, from the bottom of my heart, for giving me the special and wonderful opportunity to be Yashoda, and serve my Krishna forever. It is an invaluable gift. All the words that I am struggling with to define and describe it cannot do much justice, so I feel compelled to stop the words and just be in and become one with Nithyananda! I sincerely wish each and every one could experience even a glimpse of Nithyananda to know what they are truly missing but constantly searching in their lives.

Content: Ma Nityananda Sneha Mayi

Content: Nithyananda Sneha Mayi

Content: It was September 2004. I had a friend over at my house. He had come to pick up his daughter who had a sleep over with my daughter, the previous night. I was making tea for him in the kitchen when I overheard him talking to my husband about meditation. Over the years I've always been interested in meditations. I attended some courses on them and I even read some books and tried some on my own. So, when I heard this friend tell my husband about a young Swamiji and his awesome meditation techniques, my curiosity piqued! At that time, my interest was more on the meditation course and not as much in Swamiji himself.

Content: Swamiji wasn't scheduled to come for a long time since then to the Bay area. Meanwhile I was relentlessly following his website for updates. Finally, he was scheduled to come in the following year but to my disappointment it was during the time I was going to be in India to attend couple of weddings in the family. I consoled myself thinking it was not meant to be now. But I continued to check the web site. One day, to my sheer delight and excitement, I found out that Swamiji was going to be visiting to conduct a one day course - not the one my friend had talked about. I decided to go anyway.

Content: At the meditation venue I found myself waiting with others for Swamiji to come. Swamiji finally arrived and everybody stood up in anticipation of his entry. I was sitting in one of the middle rows on an aisle seat. I stood up, turned my head towards the door and caught my first glimpse of this young, charismatic man, with a broad smile. A sudden surge of emotion welled up in me and tears sprang to my eyes. I was taken aback! What happened to me all of a sudden?

Content: Swamiji walked towards the stage past me he threw an ever so slightest glance sideways at me. All this happened in a fleeting moment but it left me tingling with goose bumps!

Content: Swamiji went on the stage, sat down and started talking. He talked in such sjimple language on such profound concepts such as enlightenment that it was very easy to understand. He captivated the audience with his small stories and anecdotes, which he used to illustrate his points. I'd never been to a discourse of any sort, let alone one by an enlightened Master. I had not even consciously thought about a concept called enlightenment. But listening to him it all seemed to make sense!

Content: After a break, with a list of the participants in his hand, he started randomly calling out participant's names and asking them questions related to his talk. I was still a skeptic at heart and I was looking at him and talking to him in my mind- if you are really great like all these people say, you should call my name at least once. To my utter surprise, he called out my name not once, but three times! The lady sitting next to me got all excited. She said you are the only one he has called on, that have not attended any of his course previously and that too three times!

Content: During the course of the talk, he spoke on the topic of healing. I was a skeptic when it came to healing. I had heard of many miracle healings, but I had never really witnessed one myself. People get deluded into these all the time, I thought to myself.

Content: Anyway, at that time I had a constant nagging pain in my left wrist. This was from an injury during a long Kayaking trip that I had taken a couple of months before. At night I could not sleep without a wristband. I hadn't seen a doctor because I usually avoid going to one, nor am I in the habit of taking medications

Content: unless it is absolutely necessary. However, since the pain hadn't subsided in a long time, it had occurred to me that I may have a hairline fracture and that I should go to a doctor after all. Hearing Swamiji continue talking about healing, a thought crossed my mind, O.K, if what you are saying is true, this pain I have in my hand should go away in a week's time (how generous I was, giving him a whole week to perform his miracle!), and should not come back! Even before I left for home that night, the pain had completely disappeared! And not just for that day, it never came back! My experience left me in a state of awe and disbelief. In my heart I was still a skeptic but this experience I had with Swamiji was undeniable.

Content: During the break in the program, I started enquiring about ASP that was to be held in Seattle. I was wondering if it was worth going all the way to Seattle, just to do a meditation course. Of course everyone I talked to raved about it. I put away the thought for a while and tried to focus on the current session. It was a short session but very sweet. My heart was filled with happiness. My whole being was soaking in joy. The predominant emotion I felt was love, but to no one in particular. I felt much gratitude to the friend who had introduced me to Swamiji. I went home late and found my daughter still awake. Seeing her I felt this surge of love for her that is indescribable. I sat on the bed next to her and narrated the incidents of the day and poured out my experiences to her. The feeling of rapture lasted for quiet some time and I went to bed wondering how it could be possible to experience this kind of joy with just a single day of meditation course!

Content: Although I did not realize it then, the groundwork for my spiritual path had been laid. The thought of going to Seattle was now constantly at the back of my mind. I called my friend and asked him do you really think it's worth going all the way there? He immediately replied absolutely, I didn't know you were

Content: this interested. You should go! Wary of going alone to Seattle, I asked my friend why don't you convince your wife to go with me? (She had not attended any of Swamiji's courses till then) I am not too thrilled about going alone. After I hung up the phone with him, within five minutes, my friend called me indicating she would go with me. That's it! Just like that, the next big step was taken. And off we went to Seattle for the ASP.

Content: The ASP was a surreal experience for me. Swamiji's discourses were captivating and thought provoking. And such profound truths put in such a simple manner and many times laced with humor, in the form of small stories and anecdotes. It was nothing that remotely resembled a typical sermon that one would expect from a spiritual master. His words seemed to touch the core of my being. I couldn't take my eyes off Swamiji and his captivating smile.

Content: The meditation techniques were beyond words. My body felt like it was wrung inside out! I felt rejuvenated and my senses purified.

Content: During the Ajna meditation as I kept looking at Swamiji's Ajna, I saw him smiling at me with a wide smile. But when I blinked my eyes and looked at him, he was sitting there with a straight face. But again as I focused on his Ajna, he was smiling at me with a wide smile! After the Ajna meditation a lot of people expressed seeing different visions. Later, when I went up to him during energy darshan, I told him Swamiji, everyone got all kinds of visions, and I only saw you with a wide smile. He replied you saw me, that's enough. Then he went on to say I'll be with you ma, you are my mother! I was struck by that remark although at that time I dismissed it as something he would probably be remarking to other women. I came to realize later, with those words, the seed of divine love had been sown in me. Subsequently, in

Content: my experiences with Swamiji, he would appear to me as my friend, as my father, as my mother and ultimately as my Master!

Content: After I got back to San Francisco, I picked up my car at the airport and started driving back home. It was then that I started feeling the after effects of the course. The last session on the Sahasrara came to my mind and the emotions started overwhelming me and I slowly started crying. I was having my own Sahasrara session right then!

Content: I went on from crying out of gratitude to asking forgiveness from all those people that I might have hurt or offended in my life till then knowingly or unknowingly. It was a very refreshing and cleansing experience. Tears of yearning poured from me and in fact I had to pull my car into a parking lot of a mall so I compose myself so as not to scare my daughter when I went home.

Content: Finally I reached home and after a few minutes of conversation with family members, I remember falling on my bed in a kind of expansive state and thinking my god what is this and who is he?

Content: Swamiji then went back to India. A few months went by. It was with much anticipation that I awaited his next arrival when he would be conducting his next meditation course, the NSP.

Content: Swamiji finally arrived. I attended every discourse he conducted. On the first day of the discourse, he walked in, went to the stage, and I was able to get his darshan only from a distance since I was standing at the farthest wall behind the Ananda Galleria.

Content: During the discourse, he glanced at my direction and I thought to myself, what are the chances that he would even recognize me!

Content: Later, when we all went for his blessings, he asked me how are you doing, ma? I said I'm fine thinking this is just a cursory question he would ask anyone.

Content: Then he went on further to ask me, how is your friend? Referring to the friend with whom I had gone to Seattle to do ASP. I immediately realized that he had not only recognized me, but

Content: more importantly, I realized that he wanted to let my skeptical mind know that he did, because I knew he had just spoken to my friend over the phone before leaving India.

Content: The following day was another of his memorable discourse. After the discourse, we stood in line to get Swamiji’s blessings. I was standing behind Ma Nithya Roop who was hosting Swamiji and his crew. She went on to receive his blessings and then stood by his side. Then I went ahead and prostrated at his feet, received a loving hug and I hugged him back blissfully and started walking away. I then heard a squeal of laughter behind me, so I turned my head to look back. People were signaling me to come back saying swamiji is calling you!

Content: When I went back, Swamiji tells me look at her, pointing to Ma Nithya Roop who was in front of me in the line, she is jealous of you; after she saw how you hugged me, so she comes to hug me again. A bit taken aback by his remark, with a puzzled look on my face, I said Swamiji, she’s my friend; she won’t be jealous of me!

Content: Then Ma Nithya Roop laughed and went on to explain that when she went for blessing, Swamiji after receiving a hug from her, had told her, you wait and watch now, she’s coming, see how she hugs. I guess feeling privileged to even have the opportunity to hug him, I must have done it with all fervor!

Content: Incidentally both Ma Nithya Roop and I are Swamiji’s moms and our love for Him must have been evident in those hugs.

Content: When the blessing session got over, we quickly cleared up everything and gathered things to load our vehicles. As we walked to the vehicle, Swamiji walked ahead and I was right behind him and my hands were full of Ananda Galleria stuff. He stopped at the top of the flight of stairs, looked back at the things I was carrying and said now give me a hug, let’s see how you are going to do it!

Content: I shifted the load I was carrying with great difficultly, but with hurried swiftness to one hand, struggling to balance, I quickly hugged him with the other! He laughed his enchanting laugh and went on to board the van. I was simply left mesmerized by his charm and child like exuberance!

Content: Sitting in the van, he looked at all of us who were gazing adoringly at him, not wanting to let him go, or even let him out of our sight. Compassionately, he said those of you who want can come back to the house and spend some time with me. What followed was like a cartoon movie operated at a high speed. People scurried and rushed to their vehicles and drove out as fast as they could to reach there to be with him and not waste a moment.

Content: When I reached the house, Swamiji was talking with Sri Satchitananda, and as soon as I entered he remarked, here she is, and immediately asked me what did I tell you when you first talked to me in Seattle? I just stood there blinking, trying to figure out what he was exactly referring to. Realizing that I was perplexed, he himself replied I told you that you are my mother. I immediately repeated after him oh yeah; you said I’m like your mother. He quickly corrected me; I said you are my mother. My heart rejoiced with joy! What a privilege to be bestowed such an honor!

Content: After everyone arrived, we all sat around him and he was talking to us like one would with friends. We were doubling up with laughter at his jokes. Then the conversation steered towards India and he started talking about how in Tamil Nadu, the state where both Swamiji and I come from, people are so reluctant to feed the sannyasis that come to their door step during their wandering days. Being impulsive as I was at that time, and proud of my home state, I opened my big mouth and attempted to defend the Tamilians by saying Swamiji maybe they refuse to give food because there are so many of these fake mystics in Tamil

Content: Nadu. That makes them feel reluctant. He swiftly turned his head towards me and sternly rebuked me saying so even if they are fake, can't you just give food to them? I realized my folly and understood his message of compassion to people, irrespective of who they are or how they are. It was first of the many lessons of life I would learn from him. I feel blessed to be exposed to so many of Swamiji's teachings, his views and ideas. If I am a better person even in the slightest way today I owe it all to my beloved Swamiji.

Content: It was time for Swamiji to have dinner and he enquired about us, why don't you all eat? By then couple of people had already left to hunt for any place that would be opened that late at night to get food, but unfortunately none was open; so few of us women scurried to our homes to get whatever we had in our houses, and collected enough food for a battalion. We all enjoyed our dinner immensely in Swamiji's presence.

Content: I went back home feeling joy and slept blissfully. I woke up to yet another great day. Around noon, I received a call from Ma Satchitananda who travels with Swamiji assisting Him asked me if I could come over to her place to iron Swami's clothes. Whoa! I felt like I hit the jackpot! I drove right away, got instructions from Ma Sachit about how to go about doing it and went about my “divine task” gleefully. Swamiji who had gone out with other men returned shortly. I wasn't sure if it was appropriate for me to go out and meet him or if I should just stay where I was until I was told what to do next.

Content: To my delight Sri Sachit came and announced that Swamiji had arrived so why don't I come out and meet him. With great excitement I went out into the living room. Swamiji asked me to sit with Him on the couch and we had a nice conversation. Swamiji enquired about my family. Then he went on to say from

Content: now on, if anyone asks you how many children you have, don't tell them you have only one, tell them you have two. I looked at him to see whether he was serious or was he joking! It really dawned on me that Swamiji was being serious! Until then I only had a daughter - now, I have a son and a daughter! Being bestowed a child is like receiving a gift from heaven but to be bestowed a Divine Child is an honor indeed! I couldn't help thinking about the instantaneous connection I felt the day I first saw him. It was undeniable the emotions I felt for him, a total stranger, at that time. This would explain my being drawn to him as one would towards an irresistible child!

Content: After a while, I went back into the room and then I heard someone call out mom! I thought it was Ma Nithya Roop's son calling her and just continued on with my work. Then I was called out and Swamiji told me I have to get used to him calling me mom!

Content: First day of the much-awaited NSP- it was an exciting and intense program! Between the meditation sessions, when the participants were having a discussion with Swamiji, he narrated his experience about his travel through various states in India and once again brought up the topic of how most of the people from Tamil Nadu are miserly about giving food to the sanyasis. This time I did not justify their action, but I defended the state. I thought that I had a great point when I proudly told him, Swamiji, Tamilnadu is a great state- it has given this world great people like you, Ramana Maharshi and others. And he replied smiling sweetly well, in spite of that, it is what it is! What could I possibly say after that? But I wouldn't give up and kept making my point in different ways. I should have known better. To my embarrassment, Swamiji started jokingly referring to me as a Tamil terrorist!

Content: Soon after that I had to leave the hall to do some chore that Ma Satchitananda had asked me to do and I heard Swamiji say see, she's become popular just by arguing with me. Later I heard that my friends who were present told him that I argue like that whenever I am defending what I believe in. Actually they were wrong on this; it was not so much that I wanted to defend the state of Tamil Nādu, I just couldn't resist the opportunity to continue my dialogue with Swamiji! When I came back in after doing the chore, Swamiji asked me why are you simply walking in and out? I replied casually arrogantly I went out only to do your work! I guess at that time in my life I had not fully grasped the significance of Swamiji, to be more respectful. With his youthful exuberance and his ability to make one so comfortable in his presence, combined with my naivete and impulsiveness, it was easy to simply relate to Swamiji as you would to any dear friend. It was only later as my mind opened and realized the divine power in him that I accepted him as my Master, and from then on the reverence naturally followed in my interactions with him.

Content: As part of the final meditation session we had to list our desires and fantasies on a piece of paper, relive them, and burn them in the end, signifying a new beginning in our current life. During this meditation, I was sitting there with a paper and pencil, hardly able to focus my attention and go beyond three or four of my desires. I was simply looking here and there with a glee on my face. Flush from my one on one interaction with him that day, I was simply in bliss being there in Swamiji's presence. Swamiji looked at me with a look of what are you up to? I said I'm not able to think of anything to put down! He said, then you've burnt them meaning that I must not have any more desires left in me. In his divine presence, with his radiating energy enveloping me in such ecstasy, what other desire could I possibly have!

Content: When everyone was finished writing, we had to tear up the paper in a plate, burn them and meditate with our eyes closed. I burned mine, sat down and kept meditating in my mind repeating swamiji, I love you; I thank you - like chanting a mantra. When we were asked to open our eyes, I turned my head towards Swamiji only to find him smiling at me as though he had read my mind.

Content: After the meditation sessions were over, it was time for receiving Swamiji's energy darshan along with the eagerly anticipated spiritual name. Everyone was called by his or her name, one after the other, while the rest of us danced blissfully to the Nithya Kirtans playing loudly in the background. As I was dancing, when my name was called I pretty much ran to Swamiji and knelt down in front of him. He gave me the certificate with the spiritual name he had given me, pointed to it and read out- Ma Ananda Snehamayi-mother and friend. You are the third person on the planet earth that I've given this mayi name to! I was moved beyond words! I paid my respects to him, got up and moved away. What a wonderful divine treat it was! Having received such a beautiful name, I took my certificate to my friends that were present, running from one to the other and showing it off!

Content: I was ecstatic and danced round and round. I could not feel my legs under me but was able to sense them moving around so swiftly and smoothly, I could not believe it myself. I am not an enthusiastic dancer; usually I shy away from it. But then, it felt so good to be dancing, feeling light and ecstatic! Definitely it was something to do with the energy I received from Swamiji. It was not only then, but the rest of the following week too that I was highly energetic. In fact, I drove back in my car with Nithya Kirtan blasting away and would feel like my whole body was bouncing like an energizer bunny! Eventually, the energy level returned to its normal course.

Content: Swamiji's U.S.A tour was not over and Ma Nithya Roop had to send the Ananda Galleria material to the other cities. I went to her house late in the evenings to help her pack the Ananda Galleria material. While packing we would endlessly talk about Swamiji, discussing our experiences, our observations – we never seemed to run out of things to say. And when we were done, we would start all over again repeating all that we had said, laughing at ourselves for not tiring from it at all.

Content: During the course of one such conversation, Ma Nithya Roop sowed the seed in my mind- why don't you come for teacher training? My initial reaction was what, go away out of town for about a week without my daughter? No way I couldn't do it. There is another one coming up during summer vacation; I'll do it then". But, little did I know that the seed had begun to sprout. The thought of going to Krishnalaya started gnawing at my mind day and night. I tepidly approached my daughter and asked her, when would it be a better time for you to manage without me- now or later during the school break? She was a mature girl for her age and she knew what I wanted to hear. She just smiled and said, mom, if you want to go now, just do it- I'll be fine! I didn't hesitate anymore, I started making plans for my trip seriously, making all the necessary arrangements that needed to be done - after all this was the first time in her 14 years, that I was leaving my daughter for so long and going out of town!

Content: Now that my decision was made, Ma Nithya Roop and I start making plans. Oh, how exciting it was – making all these plans to be around Swamiji, in his energy field for eight whole days! I could not contain my excitement. We went about our mundane chores such as buying groceries and such, for our trip but we ventured doing something else too at Ma Nithya Roop's insistence. Ma Nithya Roop gave me a long spiel on how during the previous teacher training that she had attended, all the participants had written a song

Content: for Swamiji and sang it to him, and how greatly Swamiji loved it and appreciated it, and therefore we should it do it again. She convinced me to write a Tamil song with the plan of singing it to him. Now I didn’t know writing from poetry to prose! Nevertheless, I agreed to her request.

Content: I had this favorite Bhajan of mine in Hindi. I loved it for its beautiful melody and the lyrics too. I obtained a translation of the song and modified it a little here and there to get the final version of my Tamil song. We then practiced and practiced, and practiced some more, to sing the song to Swamiji. And each time we practiced, Ma Nithya Roop would invariably mention, Swamiji is going to love this song. He is going to appreciate it like anything. Hearing this, I started floating on cloud nine in anticipation of receiving compliments from Swamiji!

Content: Several days later we were in Krishnalaya. About thirty of us from different cities in the U.S.A had gathered together for our Life Bliss Program teacher training. Krishnalaya is one of the most wonderful places to visit, especially for spiritual retreats. It has a vast landscape with sprawling land with huge mountains behind, and a river flowing through. It has small units of two-person occupancy and few four-person occupancy scattered around. A huge kitchen/dining area with a most kind attendant helping out with the chores was also available to us. We had taken a cook along with us to help prepare our meals.

Content: On one of the days, in the evening, Swamiji was sitting on his favorite seat, the swing, inside the hall where the classes take place. He got into one of his singing moods and he told us that he was going to narrate his life history in villu paatu style- typical folk style songs, still very much prevalent in the villages of Tamilnadu. The way the song is sung is that the main singer sings the song while the accompanying artists throw leading questions at him every now and then. When the singer replies, the

Content: accompanying artists need to affirm by saying yes, and so on. Little did we realize the speed with which Swamiji was going to come up with beautiful verses about his life - that too in folk style - without any hesitation. We were not even able to keep up with him to say yes and shoot out the next question -which before we did, Swamiji would be ready with the answers. On one hand, the ten of us, who could speak Tamil, were wracking our heads trying to keep up with Swamiji's speed. On the other hand, we were all doubling up with laughter at the wonderful humor in Swamiji's verses - thoroughly hilarious! We were soaking it all up, not wanting to miss out anything! I for one watched Swamiji with wonder and admiration.

Content: Once that was over, Ma Nithya Roop prodded me to sing our song. I did not want to, partly because I was feeling inhibited to sing in front of others, and partly because I was not sure how it would be received by Swamiji. But she was in no mood to concede to my reticence. With so much singing going on, she was all ready to sing! She went ahead and told him, Swamiji, Chitra has written a song for you -can we sing it now? And of course he said, go ahead!

Content: We started off in Tamil - thaayum neeye, thandayum neeye... which means you are mother, you are father... and then the song goes on to say you are this and you are that - for example, you are morning, you are evening... and so on.

Content: Suddenly we were stopped midway by Swamiji's booming voice, what is this? You just heard me sing ...and what is this you are singing? You are tea; you are coffee, and so on? (Of course we did not use the words tea, coffee, etc.) My heart started sinking; I thought to myself what is Swamiji doing? I did the

Content: best I could. I should not have listened to Ma Nithya Roop. Look how he is teasing me now! Let down as

Content: I felt at that time, little did I know what was to come later.

Content: A couple of days later we were going through our training session with our LBP material when suddenly

Content: I heard people discussing with Swamiji about writing poems and translations of poems etc. in their

Content: respective languages and Swamiji would bless them by giving them honey. A line formed in front of him

Content: to receive the honey. I, on the other hand, sat on the side watching all this, nurturing my wounded ego

Content: from my previous attempt at singing.

Content: Suddenly my mind started playing games with me. I thought to myself- should I go for the honey too? The

Content: thought of others getting honey from Swamiji and not me was the motivation, not writing another song!

Content: Unable to resist the temptation, I went and stood in line. When I went up to Swamiji, I asked him, Can I

Content: just take the honey and not write anything? (I had rationalized in my mind that I had already written

Content: Swamiji a song, albeit it was a translation job.) Right away Swamiji replied emphatically, NO! I

Content: immediately panicked because I was not confident that I could write another song for Swamiji! I wanted

Content: to give up the honey and move away. But Sri Ananda Roop who was there monitoring the whole thing

Content: coaxed me on saying, you can do it, just take it! So I turned back to Swamiji and said Sri Ananda Roop

Content: is telling me to take the honey, so I'll take it. Swamiji calmly said, then take it from him! Now, I was

Content: really ready to flee! But Sri Ananda Roop would not give up on me, he went on to say, Swamiji will help

Content: you do it, just take it! Those* words did it for me! I quietly turned back confidently and said, O.k. Swami,

Content: I'll take the honey and write a poem! And to my utter astonishment he said, well, you have to write twenty

Content: lines (for others ten were enough) and it has to be to the tune of the song that I'm going to sing now!

Content: Saying that, he went on to sing 2-3 lines of an oonjal song. I've never heard of this oonjal song before

Content: 287

Content: and since my mind had already begun to freeze with apprehension at the 20-line limit, I could not even properly focus at the tune! So I asked him can you please repeat the tune. He refused saying no, that's it. Dazed, I quietly walked out of the room like a zombie.

Content: How on earth was I to write a twenty-line poem, and that too to the tune that I could hardly remember! Everyone had assembled at the dining room, since it was lunchtime. I picked up my food and with a long sulking face and went to sit at the table with the others. We all discussed what each one of us is going to write and I started asking whether anyone knew about the tune of the song Swamiji had given me. Few people tried but without success. Finally one of them came to my rescue by saying I know which song it resembles! And she went on to sing the song that had a tune similar to the one Swami sang! It was not just me but everyone at the table cried out in delight! We all started laughing loudly at our own excitement. We were totally unaware of the fact that Swamiji had walked into the dining area. He walked up to our table and asked what's going on here? Nobody even moved. I was afraid that if I told him that someone had helped me with the tune, he would change it to a different, more difficult one! So I told him, we'll tell you tomorrow, Swami. (The deadline was the next day). He persisted, tell me now! I don't know where I got the guts to resist, but I repeated, I'll definitely tell you tomorrow Swami. He looked at me for a few silent seconds and said, you think I won't know if you don't tell me? I felt stunned and taken aback!

Content: But that's how it was during that period. I was simply afraid to face him for I wasn't sure what his reaction might be! Anyway, Swamiji turned around and left the room. I quickly went back to the friend and went over the tune few more times and recorded it in my mind. I went off to work on my song. But where was I to begin? I kept breaking my head over it that day during breaks in the training session. I thought to myself Swamiji, what a predicament you have put me in! Finally by the following morning, I came up with this:

Content: Nithyananda en guruve

Content: Karunai en mel kondu vidu

Content: Anbu konda maganam nee

Content: Yennai ippadi paduthadhey

Content: Azhagai neeye paadi vidu

Content: Aananda nadanam aadi vidu

Content: Yennai inda vambinilev

Content: Yeno ippadi ilzuthu vittai

Content: Yelzu chakaram padika vandhom

Content: Teacher training yeduka vandhom

Content: Aanal manam adhil poga villai

Content: Un aananda roopathil mayangi vittom

Content: Krishnalaya carpetaiye

Content: Par kaadalai nee matri vittai

Content: Bhakthargal naangal mukthi adaiya

Content: Gnana sorpolzivatri vittai

Content: Krishna leelaigal seigindrai

Content: Sivanai polave aadugindrai

Content: Bhakthargal idhayam anaithilume

Content: Aananda thandavam aadugindrai

Content: Sneha bhavam kondavane

Content: Inba kadalil aalzhi vittai

Content: Aanandam aanandam aanandame

Content: Verondrum yenaku theriyavillai

Content: The translation of the song goes something like this:

Content: 289

Content: That evening everyone assembled in the hall to share their song with Swamiji and others. I waited nervously for my turn wondering about the verdict in store for me, from Swamiji. Not only did I have to share the words to my song, I had to sing to the specific tune too! Quickly, before it was my turn, I asked one of the people who could sing well, if she would help singing along with me. She agreed, and upon obtaining Swamiji's permission to take her help, we went on to perform my song! With a lot of apprehension I started to sing and looked up at Swamiji. To my great relief and joy, I saw him laughing upon hearing the words of my song - why are you dragging me into this... and then he began clapping to the tune. Soon everyone joined in clapping to the song. Greatly relieved, and with renewed confidence, I enthusiastically continued and finished the song with the help of my friend. To my great joy, Swamiji remarked well, the honey has worked. Thus concluded my singing session with Swamiji, that had started off in Ma Nithya Roop's house. A mere translation of a song that was ridiculed by Swamiji, and culminated in Krishnalaya with the Master goading me and pushing me to compose my own original song for him that he thoroughly enjoyed!

Content: Going back to the pre-Krishnalaya time when we were preparing for Swamiji's arrival in San Jose we had finished all the purchases required for our weeklong stay at Krishnalaya. My garage was overflowing with all the vegetables and other groceries that we had accumulated. As evening got closer we started panicking. Swamiji and crew were arriving that night, and there was a possibility that Swamiji would leave from the airport directly to Krishnalaya. Under those circumstances, both Ma Nithya Roop and I were to go the airport with her van and my car. Swamiji, with his crew, would depart from the airport in the van, while Ma Nithya Roop and I were to follow them. For some reason the task of loading never seemed to be

Content: done. At the back of our minds we were hoping that Swamiji would decide to stay the night and leave the following day. It was getting late in the evening, the packing continued. Since it was time for my family to go to bed, I bid them goodbye in case I was to leave that night itself. Sometime later, we got a call from Sri Ananda Roop saying that Swamiji's flight has arrived half hour early and the plan was to leave for Krishnalaya straight from the airport. We quickly loaded whatever was left into the car. I ran upstairs to say good-bye to my daughter ran back and started my car. To my dismay all I heard was a faint click!

Content: I tried again frantically. Again, all I got was the same dead sound instead of the engine revving up. I got down, told Ma Nithya Roop about the situation. She decided to wait for me. I ran back into the house, woke up my husband and requested him to jump-start my car. Once again I started the car. Oh my God, it was stalling again! The engine was dead! I ran back inside, dragged my poor husband out of the bed again, and had him jump-start the car again. But this time he warned me not to stop the engine explaining that the battery needs to get sufficiently charged. At long last, I drove away, with Ma Nithya Roop behind me in her van. Meanwhile, oblivious to me, people who were traveling with Swamiji were waiting anxiously (putting it mildly) and had been calling Ma Nithya Roop to find out what's going on. I had a terrible feeling with the thought of Swamiji waiting at the airport for us!

Content: Finally, we arrived at the airport and people started loading/unloading and moving things between the van and the car. I went into the airport building to pay my homage to Swamiji, half-expecting him to be peeved waiting for us. To my surprise and relief, I found Swamiji sitting there with a naughty smile. Looking at me, he laughingly said, finished washing your dishes at home? I said no Swamiji, my car wouldn't start.

Content: However, the poignance of this incident didn't escape me. Normally, I would expect myself and others to be waiting hours on end to get a darshan of Swamiji. But here it was I who had kept Swamiji waiting. And, he, showing no signs of exasperation, received me with such warmth!

Content: Swamiji bid good-bye to the devotees who had gathered at the airport to receive him, and then we all drove away to Krishnalaya.

Content: It was late in the night but the drive was beautiful; through different valleys and mountains. We were feeling joyful listening to the Nithya Kirtans and following Swamiji literally as he drove ahead of us in the van! We stopped at a gas station to fill gas. Keeping in mind this long journey I had packed a snack for Swamiji. As I stepped out of my car, the thought that crossed my mind was, Wow! No matter what time of the day - however much the body has physically endured during that day - Swamiji's amazing wide smile is always present. And it comes through to you as though to light up your inner self! I walked over to the driver's side and offered them the food. Swamiji who was sitting in the passenger's seat looked at my tired face and blessed me and said this will take you through the rest of the journey. Needless to say I was flooded with energy and didn't feel sleepy the rest of the way. It was actually close to dawn when we finally arrived at Krishnalaya. We went straight to bed and I fell asleep peacefully.

Content: I woke up to a beautiful morning. It was tranquil outside and there was this eager anticipation in our hearts - just like nature awaiting the sun to come out, and wash the trees and flowers with its warm splendor. I came out to help Ma Nithya Roop to unload the car. Just then a van pulled alongside us and Swamiji was in the passenger seat, radiating like the Sun! Swamiji was with a group of people who had arrived earlier the previous day. They were all going for a ride. Swamiji looked at us and said why don't

Content: you come too? Consumed with the thought of unloading and getting settled in, we replied, we have to unload all this stuff in the kitchen Swamiji, to which he retorted it can wait till later! Still hesitant, I asked him where they were going. To which Swamiji replied I'm not going to tell you! Won't you follow me when I call you? Needing no further persuasion I decided to go, and so did Ma Nithya Roop. Both of us got in my car and we followed Swamiji's van once again. The only difference this time was that it was a different van with different people along with Swamiji.

Content: It was a splendid morning. A perfect day! The sky was intensely blue and everything was sparkling in the morning sun. It was a beautiful drive full of sunshine and shadows. I enjoyed it thoroughly. When we realized that what we had perceived to be a short drive was extending into a long one, Ma Nithya Roop started feeling uncomfortable. She had to take care of the food back at camp. If we returned late there would not be enough time to get Swamiji's food ready in time. But there was not much we could do at that point. Furthermore, we had no idea how long we were going to be driving on - we didn't even know where we were heading! We were just blissfully following the Master!

Content: We could see the ocean on one side of us. It was a breathtaking sight! My heart bounced with joy at the thought of going there with Swamiji. But then the thought of his breakfast came to our mind. We started feeling very uneasy by now. Finally, we arrived at a beach.

Content: I started talking excitedly to Swamiji in Tamil, my native language. Swamiji gently reminded me to speak in English - no one else there knew the language other than both of us. It was amazing how invariably, in every situation he kindly thinks of others. Everyone had snacks and enjoyed the wide expanse of the ocean. Ma Nithya Roop and I were very restless as we felt bad about shirking our responsibilities. I turned

Content: to Swamiji and said Swamiji, Ma Nithya Roop and I have work to finish back at the retreat. He said Then why did you come?

Content: His response was a blow to my ego, but it served as a lesson to me. Other lessons like this would follow the rest of the trip. I stood there sulking. Swamiji came and stood next to me. He put his arm around my shoulder compassionately. Finally he decided it was time to go back and we all drove back to camp.

Content: When we got back, Ma Nithya Roop ran into the kitchen, while I started unloading the groceries. After we settled down, Ma Sachitananda took Ma Nithya Roop and me aside and patiently gave us a lesson on what responsibility means especially when we are around Swamiji and on this path itself.

Content: With the arrival of lunchtime, everyone gathered in the dining area. Most of the participants had arrived. We introduced ourselves, and I meet my roommate with whom I was going to stay the rest of the following week.

Content: After the lunch session, Swamiji made his grand appearance and started off the session ceremoniously. We were all split into groups and a leader was assigned to each group. Just as we were getting comfortable with our groups and having fun we were told that, for each chakra, the group’s participants and the leader would be changed. However, that turned out to be a lot of fun too! Every moment was a knowledge point through experience.

Content: Most of the days, in spite of setting our alarm clocks, we found it difficult to wake up early and get ready for the day, since we were sleeping late and hardly getting a few hours of sleep each night. Of course, Swamiji would beat us to it and would come knocking at our doors in the morning with a group of early-

Content: risers following Him singing and dancing. We would get ready and run to the riverside for the customary session of Ayurvedic cleansing followed by a meditation session. Swamiji sitting on His swing would supervise us.

Content: On some days, we would continue to stay by the riverside and just sit around Swamiji and have nice conversations with Him. Every such occasion was fun filled, but at the same time rich with lessons that we would learn. Swamiji taught us that we need to be aware at all times around him, no matter how light or heavy the situation is, to be able to learn something out of each situation.

Content: One such morning, while we were sitting under the tent by the riverside, we all noticed a vulture circling over the river. When we looked carefully we discovered a mother duck swimming around with her ducklings. Having spotted the vulture, she was quaking loudly and crying out for help. As we watched, Swamiji started to intently stare at the scene with complete focus. Soon thereafter the vulture circled around and flew away! I am sure the mom duck must have thanked Swamiji profusely in her own language!

Content: There was this huge dog that belonged to the caretaker of Krishnalaya that would follow Swamiji whenever he stepped out of his room. Once I was in the kitchen doing some work when I had to go back to the hall for some reason. To my horror this huge dog was sitting across the door I needed to enter. Having an acute phobia for dogs, I ran back to the kitchen to find Ma Sachitananda and tell her of my dilemma. She quietly told me well, what better time could there be other than this, when the Master is around you, to get over your phobia. Her words sank in me like a stone in a river. I slowly trudged forward towards the door, gingerly walked around the dog when my clothes ever so gently brushed the

Content: dog's skin. Whew! What a great achievement it was for me to get past the dog on my own! I realized how simple fears like this can be vanquished by sheer faith and trust in the Master.

Content: The first few days that we were there, it either rained heavily or it would be cloudy. One such day, when we were sitting by the river under the tent, one of the devotees lamented I wish we can see some stars today. One of the devotees conveyed this wish to Swamiji who in turn just smiled softly. When the evening session was over, it was well into the night. We came out of the tent with Swamiji walking ahead of us. Suddenly, we noticed this group of bright stars right above the tent and there was this one star that shone brightly in the midst of them! But on either side of that dazzling group of stars one could hardly see any other star. Stunned by the vision we had just witnessed, we slowly walked back to our rooms. Upon reaching our rooms, we turned around and looked back to find that all the stars we had just seen were nowhere in sight! One moment they were there for us and the next moment they were all gone! We were all sure that it was Swamiji who brought out the stars for His devotee! But when I asked Swamiji the next day if he did that, the answer I got was, fool don't I have anything better to do? Swamiji has taught me to not ask such questions. We should accept what we witness around him for what it is! There is no need for confirming what we already know. We are after all in the presence of the Divine himself!

Content: One early morning, my roommate and I were half awake in our room when we heard a knock on our door. I went and opened the door still half asleep. There stood Swamiji clad in beautiful Kanchi-silk robes in absolute divine form! As usual His band of early-risers were dancing and singing behind Him. I just stood there speechless and dumbfounded. Sri Ananda Roop who was standing beside Swamiji, went on to explain

Content: that it was Mother's Day. I just continued to gaze lovingly at Him! I couldn't move to say or do anything! Swamiji smiled and moved on to the next room.

Content: We all got ready that day and the ladies draped themselves in traditional sarees in lieu of mother's day. Swamiji came to the hall. We all closed our eyes and Swamiji guided us through a beautiful meditation starting with paying gratitude to our mothers. Boom! Suddenly it hit me like thunder in my head - I had not thought of my mother even for a second that day until Swamiji asked us to give our gratitude to our mothers for having given birth to us. My eyes were closed in meditation but the tears of not having remembered by mother all that morning just rolled down my eyes in a continuous stream. When the meditation session was over, we went to get Swamiji's blessing and I told him Swamiji I had completely forgotten my mother. And Swamiji said consolingly, don't worry ma, I am your mother! Indeed, I had been blessed with the presence of the Divine Mother herself that day!

Content: That morning Swamiji requested us to sing. So some of us got together and sang this beautiful Tamil song 'Maraindirundu parkum marumam enna?' I do not have the words to do justice to what I witnessed. Swamiji spontaneously broke into a graceful. It was a beautiful sight and difficult to describe in words. It could all be attributed for the most part to the expression on His face and to the wondrous grace. Suddenly he pulled a few moms into the circle and danced with them. I was dancing with the divine! That day held such sweet memories for so many of us.

Content: Later that evening we went out to the river. A bonfire was lit and we all sat around Swamiji. Swamiji started chanting a mantra. He asked us to close our eyes and get into the meditation. The air was thick with expectation. It was quiet everywhere. When it was time for us to open our eyes, as I gazed upon

Content: Swamiji, suddenly he became formless! I couldn’t see his form anymore. I couldn’t believe my eyes; I blinked vigorously and looked again but couldn’t find his form! After a few seconds everything returned to normal. Nobody spoke as we slowly walked back to the hall and waited for Swamiji. He later came in and asked us all to close our eyes. I suddenly felt a soft waft of breeze. This breeze was not carrying just air; it came with waves and waves of love, just pure motherly love. I don’t know how else to explain it because in my life till then the ultimate pure love is a mother’s love and that’s all I felt flowing into me in a continuous stream. All sense of time was lost. I could sense Swamiji standing next to me as he touched my head in blessing. All I could do was just put my head down at his feet. Timeless feeling continued, until I heard Swamiji asking me in a soft, gentle voice to get up, repeatedly. I returned to this world and it felt like I had just awakened from a dream. As I lifted my head up, Swamiji moved on to bless each one of individually. That day I got to experience the love of divine motherhood. Everyone had great experiences that day; it will be etched in our memories forever!

Content: Finally the day arrived when it all had to come to an end. We had energy darshan that day. Slowly people started leaving one after the other, and by evening, most everyone had left. But just as we were about to leave, my fellow passenger came and announced that Swamiji had requested us to leave later. Of course, I wouldn’t say no to that. So once again I got an opportunity to follow Swamiji’s van with Ma Nithya Roop behind me in her car.

Content: The time we spent in Krishnalaya was one of the most wonderful weeks in my life. The experiences of that week have significantly contributed to my personal, emotional and spiritual growth. It was as though

Content: I had been trudging along in my life aimlessly until then. Undoubtedly it was a big stepping-stone for me in my spiritual path.

Content: I went back home late at night and had a peaceful sleep. When morning came I quickly went to Ma Nithya Roop's house again to help them get ready for their departure to L.A. Swamiji was going to leave for India from there. Swamiji got ready and went and sat in the van. I went up to him for my final blessings. He gave me a hug and asked me, so when next? I told him, I'll come to the Bangalore ashram when I am in India in the summer. I watched the van leave with a heavy, sinking heart.

Content: The much-awaited summer arrived. I went to Chennai and waited out the first four weeks of the vacation impatiently. It was the fifth week that I was scheduled to go to Bangalore and do the Healers Initiation course over two days. On that week, I reached there the morning of the course. Another family had come at the same time from the Bay Area. We all hung out together, went to the Banyan tree and did a short meditation there. While we were there, I felt like walking towards the other side down the path that led to the Ananda Sabha. I realized what had pulled me in that direction - to my great excitement my beloved Swamiji was standing there! I just lost all inhibition and started running towards him. He saw me, smiled and said Mom, where are you coming from? As we talked, others also joined us. Together we all walked with Swamiji who was going to have his breakfast. Swamiji being the perfect host offered us breakfast immediately. We went to the Banyan tree again with Swamiji. He took us to the Ananda Sabha and showed us the Venkateswara that was going to be in the L.A ashram. After the tour concluded we went for the Healers initiation course. It was a wonderful course. He gave instructions saying find accommodation for Mom. So I stayed in the Ashram for the entire program.

Content: I had started developing a headache that evening and by nighttime it had gotten worse. When I woke up in the morning I started throwing up. Every now and then during the course I would run out of the room. Swamiji noticed this, stopped his talk, and asked me, mom what's Wrong? Are you not well? Come here let me heal you. And in the midst of the course, he called me over and gave me healing right there in front of the class. And again during one of the breaks he called me out and gave me healing. It was really warm and comforting to know he is there always to care of things small and big.

Content: In spite of the mild illness episode, the trip had done wonders for me, especially for my Ananda Gandha. I somehow strongly feel that all my throwing up was my getting rid of the negativities and Swamiji with his compassion made me throw it all out. It was after this period that my complete surrender to the master took place.

Content: I returned to US. Soon Swamiji returned to US too. He came to LA to inaugurate his new Ashram. A few weeks later I received a call from Ma Nithya Roop informing me that they were planning on an inaurural celebration for the ashram. The entire devotee group in the Bay Area was feverish with excitement. Some of us got together, rented vehicles and went off to our “Divine Kingdom” in LA. The inauguration was a wonderful event. That trip was the first of several trips that I would make to the ashram in the coming times.

Content: During that period, Swamiji was gave his discourses on Bhagavad-Gita. I attended several of them. Every discourse that I attended was intense and powerful. During one such discourse, as I was looking at him, suddenly everything on the stage around him turned gold and Swamiji too became radiant! I blinked

Content: several times to see if I was imagining, but the effect was real! Then at that very moment I noticed that Swamiji had turned into Baby Krishna!

Content: Later when I mentioned this to Swamiji, he laughed out loudly which I felt was loaded with a mysterious message.

Content: On one of the LA trips I had taken a garland for decoration. Swamiji liked it and enquired about it indicating that he wanted a similar one for Lord Venkateswara in the ashram. I volunteered to make one.

Content: Later on, the day of the weekly abhishekam, people were decorating Lord Venketeswara. Swamiji asked about the garland that I had made and upon receiving it, personally went and adorned Lord Venketeswara with it. I felt so happy that he had chosen to do this himself.

Content: At the Ashram, the days he is present for the Guru Pujas are the ultimate. Much as the idols of Lord Venkateswara and Lord Dakshinamurthy are impressive on their own, to me the ultimate Guru Puja is on the day he is present there physically, whence I can offer my gratitude and surrender myself at his feet.

Content: I find the morning talks after the Guru Puja to be very enlightening. Swamiji makes sure that we understand the essence of his teachings can really be understood through our experiences, because understanding a concept and living a concept are two very different matters. And for that to happen we need to be aware of ourselves constantly.

Content: At times when my mind was caught up on petty issues, I would hear Swamiji say or do something seemingly unrelated to my issues, but which would nevertheless awaken me to realize the pettiness of the issues consuming my mind. This happened only when I was willing to be an open recipient of his lessons!

Content: It helps me look into myself to become a better person. These lessons, these eye-openers, not only give meaning and deepen one’s life, but they are invitations to delve into life’s mysteries which cannot be fathomed with techniques or formulas. I am convinced that it would help pave my path into my future. I am convinced that Swamiji will help me find my ultimate goal in this life and beyond.

Content: I had all the luxury and all the comforts in life and now I see what I’d been missing all these years; When I ponder over everything that’s been happening in the recent past, I think the changes he has been making me go through is all part of his plan, the divine plan; that he wanted to show there is a level beyond what I see!

Content: In all my trips to LA, I’ve had the privilege of staying in the ashram whenever I visit. Mom this is your house He says to me often. I feel blessed by Swamiji’s generosity. I feel tremendous gratitude for his compassion. I am sure I will continue my visits to the ashram. Every time I go there I learn some valuable lesson – it’s so wonderful to be there in the all-encompassing divine love that teaches you to perceive things in a different way, a better way! Swamiji’s presence indeed has a profound effect on me. With every visit, and listening to every discourse of his, I can feel his lessons taking root in me. I feel myself maturing as a person.

Content: All these personal benefits notwithstanding, I find Swamiji to be such an eclectic being. He displays such a range of endearing personalities. As one could surmise, depending on the circumstance swamiji can be funny, he can be charming, he can be strict, he can be compassionate, he can be playful, he can be enterprising, he can be supportive, he can be challenging, he can be magnanimous, he can be forgiving, but above all, he is simply Divine!

Content: Today, as I sit and write my memoirs of Swamiji, I feel confident and comforted that he is my Master who is going to continue to guide me in this life and further. The ultimate privilege that he has bestowed on me in this life is that of a mother. Indeed, I feel blessed in this life to have an adorable daughter and a divine son!

Content: Swamji, I am grateful to you! I surrender myself: my thoughts, my words, my actions at your feet! This is my mantra.

Content: Ma Nithya Gnaneshwari Mayi

Content: Ma Ananda Gnaneshwari Mayi

Content: In June 2005, a 22 year old yoga instructor from Australia, left Sydney to travel to Mysore India with her parents to practice Ashtanga Yoga. This same 22 year girl would never have imagined 2 months later, on leaving India; she would leave as a Mother.

Content: Yoga is the path....

Content: Go to India. That is where all the great teachers and all the Masters of Yoga are. They are all there! This sentence that my Dad uttered to me a couple of years ago, could possibly have been the best advice I have received in my life so far.

Content: Swamiji has said, before we are born on planet earth, we all choose our parents. The truth in this statement is becoming increasingly obvious to me as time goes on. I definitely chose these ones. The way my life turned a few years ago was a result of the support and encouragement I received from my Mum and Dad.

Content: My inclination towards yoga and spirituality started in February 2003. At the time, I was in my 2nd year of University and I was doing an Associate Degree in Law. I aspired to work one day in the field of Human Rights.

Content: My Dad, who has always been interested in yoga, came home really excited one afternoon. A Bikram Yoga studio had just opened in our area of Sydney. He had read a bit about this style of yoga before and told me it was a Hatha Yoga series done in a room heated at 38 degrees

Content: Celsius. It sounded different, we were both curious and we both decided we would go and try it out.

Content: As I walked out of my first completed Bikram Yoga class, I knew that one day, I didn’t know when or how, but I was going to be a teacher. I instantly connected with it. Something inside recognized yoga. This is what I felt I had to do. I remember telling my Dad, and he said straight away, I think you will darlin. You will be a good instructor.

Content: From then on, the days when I would normally sit for hours studying different pieces of legislation, reading recommended law texts and researching for law essays, were suddenly replaced with reading yoga journals, books and magazines, studying benefits of asana/pranayama practice and of course everyday, attending my 90 minute Bikram Yoga class. Sometimes, I even went back and did a second class. I just loved it! It became my life. This was what living was all about to me. Although I did end up finishing the degree in law, practicing yoga helped me attain this degree with much more peace and clarity of mind.

Content: My Dad and I gradually talked my Mum into going along because she started to feel left out. My Dad and I only ever talked about yoga. She was finding she didn’t have anything in common with us any more. She did eventually come along and soon we were known as the yoga family.

Content: More and more, as that year went on, my passion for this yoga only grew. I increasingly just wanted to share it with others. I wanted to give people the gift of yoga. My Dad was also extremely keen on the idea of me becoming a teacher. He kept persisting to my Mum, we have to send her to the teacher training in LA next year. She has to go! My Mum at the beginning wasn’t really thrilled at the prospect of me being

Content: a yoga teacher. She would have much rather preferred I stayed and concentrated on my studies in law. But, I couldn’t ignore the call of my Being.

Content: Living in this material world, I had everyone around me being skeptical and wondering why on earth I wanted to become a yoga teacher. I had comments like, That’s not much of a career and you won’t make money from teaching yoga. I accepted their criticism but I also didn’t let it affect my decision. I already knew that by teaching yoga to people, it would create an inner richness and fulfillment within me that no money could ever buy.

Content: I went to the 9 week intensive Bikram Yoga Teacher Training in LA beginning of 2004. It was an intense and challenging training and I did really love every minute of it. An extreme physical training, where all 100 students would do two Bikram classes a day in the heated room. The thing I loved the most about training was that I was suddenly around 99 other people from all over the world who had the same thing in common as me; a love for yoga. At the college for 16 hours a day and for 9 weeks we lived, breathed and slept yoga and that is why I loved every minute of it.

Content: Bikram yoga was the first stepping stone. It was my introduction to yoga. When I came back from training, I immediately started instructing at my local studio. My intuition had been right. All of a sudden I felt like I had the most fulfilling and rewarding job ever. To watch the transformation in human Beings! To see people walk in to attend their first class, dragging their heavy feet, looking dull, mundane and depressed. Then to suddenly see the same people almost skip into the studio after just a couple of weeks of practice, looking like lifetimes had left their faces.

Content: After about 8 months of instructing, I was ready for more. I wanted to learn more so that I could give people more. I started contemplating about going back to the States to do some other kind of yoga certification. I myself wanted a teacher, someone who could take me under their wing and teach me. Someone who I could learn from. I needed someone to teach me deeper things about yoga and not just how to have perfect alignment in a posture. I knew there was more to this thing called yoga. I knew in a way that this sacred art had been limited in many ways to suit the Western world.

Content: When I talked to my parents about furthering my yoga teaching skills, my Dad who had been so adamant about me going to the States before was completely opposite this time. All he said was, Just go to India. Mum and I will go with you.

Content: Coming home.....

Content: I remember during one of the discourses at the Himalayan Yatra this year in 06, Swami said, All of you that are here on this Yatra have lived this Vedic lifestyle in one or many lives. If you have been born somewhere else in this life, be very clear, you were only born there so you could do my work. When He said this I understood why I felt so comfortable arriving in India for the first time. I had been here before. It was like coming home. I instantly loved the people, the culture, the food, the busyness and excitement of it all and I already, of course, had a deep respect for this country as it was the birthplace of yoga. That is why I was there, to practice and experience this ancient science in the place in which it took birth.

Content: My parents and I arrived in bustling Bangalore. Stayed overnight in a hotel and immediately the next day made our way to the Sandalwood city of Mysore. That first two and a half hour drive south to Mysore

Content: was something I will never forget. My face was glued to the window the whole time. It was the most entertaining journey I had experienced in my entire life. You couldn’t drive for more than a kilometer without seeing humanity. Usually when you drive through the country side in Australia, you don’t see a soul on the side of the road for kilometers. But here, there was activity happening everywhere! It really amazed me. I would have certainly passed Swamiji’s Ashram, and little did I know I would be driving north on the Mysore road to visit that Ashram, very soon.

Content: Mysore. What can I say? The only thing I can say is that this is a city I vow to visit every time I come to India in the future. Why? It is a city that is home to a family which I now consider as my own family. This family is responsible for introducing me to my Master – Nithyananda. For this I will always remember them and always pay my deepest gratitude.

Content: We had arrived in a part of Mysore called Gokulum. The place in which Sri. K Pattaboi Jois has his Ashtanga yoga shala. My Dad, Mum and I were there to study with him, his grandson Sharath and daughter Saraswati. Mum and Dad were planning on 2 weeks and I was staying for 8 – 10 weeks. We needed accommodation and another yoga student recommended we go and see the local backyard real estate agent. His name was Shiva. Shiva took my parents and me to the house of Dr Shyam Kuttapaa and wife Geetha Kuttapaa- a beautiful, hospitable couple who were more than happy to this Aussie family.

Content: My parents after being in Mysore for two weeks were relieved that they could leave me with such a lovely family. They left to visit Sri Lanka. I continued on living at Geetha and Shyams, getting up in the dark every morning to walk down the street to roll out my mat in the Shala, filled to the brim with other Westerners to do my Ashtanga practice. Again, it was great to be around a whole bunch of people that

Content: loved yoga. After practice I filled in my time by learning some different Indian traditions. I did cooking lessons with Geetha and I went along and learnt Ayurvedic massage. Meditation was another thing I wanted to learn more about and practice. The opportunity for this just came without me even having to verbalize the interest.

Content: This is Him, this is Him, this is Him...

Content: One day, I was sitting in the drawing room of Geetha and Shyams house. Geetha came down the stairs and as she approached me she said, Lauren, have you heard of Paramahamsa Sri Nithyananda?

Content: No, I replied.

Content: Oh, He is a young Guru who has an Ashram in Bangalore. He teaches meditation, He is a healer, Geetha continued.

Content: She had a book in her hand. She handed it to me the blurb side facing up. I remember the first thing I saw was a small black and white picture of Swamiji. As soon as I looked at His picture all that flashed through my mind was This is Him, This is Him, This is Him. This is my teacher. I hadn't even opened the book. I hadn't even read a word about Him or read any of His words. I just knew this was my Master.

Content: Geetha suggested that I attend the Ananda Spurana Program (ASP) that was going to be held in Mysore the next day. She told me she was volunteering for it and had previously attended one. It will be an Indian experience for you Lauren. You will like it. You're a yoga teacher, it's a meditation program and it will be good for you to attend. There was no hesitation from my side. This all sounded right up my alley.

Content: Along I went with Geetha. The ASP I attended ran over 4 afternoons. It was taught by Ma Nithya Divojananda. ASPs are so formal in India. I remember she glided in wearing a white sari. Divoja had a beautiful sublime energy. When she sat down, and started giving the introduction, I couldn’t help but notice, well how blissful she was. She in essence radiated Nithyananda. She had (and still has) this overflowing smile.

Content: During the ASP, it was announced by one of the volunteers that Swamiji would be conducting a Nithyananda Spurana Program and Healers Initiation at the Bidadi Ashram in August. Again, there was no hesitation. I immediately decided to go.

Content: The ASP had been fun. I laughed, I cried, I danced around to Indian Kirtans for the first time. It had been an experience like no other. I felt a different energy that I hadn’t felt with asana practice before. The Asana practice I felt had touched just the surface. If the meditations in the ASP could make me feel this good, then what would it be like doing a meditation program under the Master himself? I thought.

Content: I connected with Nithyananda’s teachings. I was already wondering how I could have a ASP taught in Australia. Again, I had this feeling deep inside. I knew that one day, I didn’t know when or how, but I was going to teach this Ananda Spurana Program myself.

Content: In August I was, traveling north up the Mysore Road and this time taking a right turn into the Dhyanapeetam Ashram. We arrived at the ashram to register. It was alive with activity. People arriving for NSP, organizers not walking but running to and from different buildings. I had never been in an ashram before so it was definitely a new experience learning about the ashram routines and watching all of the goings on. Everyone was busy. There wasn’t one organizer or one volunteer walking without a purpose.

Content: Later in the afternoon, all participants were told to gather in the new Ananda Sabha, where Swamiji would come and give the introduction session. 180 of us gathered into the huge building which at the time was still not complete. We all sat for a few hours, just chatting amongst ourselves and everyone anticipating Swamis entrance.

Content: The announcement was finally made that He was coming and for all of us to quiet down. The organizers started playing maduram. Swamiji entered and everyone immediately stood up. He entered the Ananda Sabha wearing His signature saffron robes. Hands in namaskaar, ever smiling and eyes closed, He walked effortlessly towards His seat at the front of the hall, namasted to the participants and then finally sat down. He just sat and looked around the room smiling for a few minutes. There were no words, but what are words? There was just this silent communion going on. He finally spoke. He gave the introduction session for the NSP.

Content: I hadn't been around an Enlightened Master before, but I just remember thinking how lighthearted He was and in a sense how down to earth He was. Welcoming the questions from the audience laughing and joking with us. Everything He said, struck a chord inside. There was no doubt that He was my guru.

Content: The introduction went late into the night. He said we were not allowed to sleep before midnight any of the nights during NSP. At one stage, He asked all of the people who had never met Him before at a program to stand up and introduce themselves. I stood up with some others. Each person gave their name and said where they were from. I introduced myself and said I was from Australia. Swamiji just smiled and then nodded to the next person. They were the only words I said to Him during the 4 day program. My name is Lauren Revell and I am from Australia.

Content: The NSP was again nothing like I had experienced. I was used to early mornings from being in Mysore practicing Ashtanga at dawn. Guru Puja was a new thing for me. Being at the Banyan tree at dawn each morning was like a blessing though. That area has an indescribable pure stillness. When I used to sit there in those early mornings waiting for Guru Puja to start, I made a promise to myself that when I was back at home in any times of stress I would remember the peace and energy I felt sitting under that Banyan tree.

Content: Swami taught and made the group practice Ayurvedic meditations at the banyan tree each morning and this was followed with the ayurvedic regime of oil pulling. I was delighted at doing these ayurvedic techniques because previously when in Mysore, I had kindled quite a large interest for ayurveda. Again, this was my teacher.

Content: During the NSP, the volunteers announced to the participants that if they requested, Swami would give them a spiritual name at the conclusion of NSP. We were told that Swami arrived at our spiritual name by first meditating on our energy. The name He gave us would ultimately represent the way in which we work to reach our Enlightenment. I thought this was very interesting. What did I have to lose? Of course I wanted to know the path which I should take to achieve enlightenment. I requested to be given a spiritual name by the Master.

Content: On finishing NSP, it truly was a liberating feeling. If I had ever felt liberated finishing a yoga class, well the feeling after doing the final meditation in NSP was like nothing I felt before on the completion of any yoga class. I remember just feeling space. Pure space. Lightness and clarity. Such peace in body, mind and being. It was incredible. I never knew such space could exist within. Swami guaranteed at the beginning of

Content: the NSP that each participant at some stage during the program would have a glimpse; a glimpse of pure consciousness. He was right of course.

Content: Everyone started dancing around. It was time for energy darshan. People were being called one by one to go upto Swamiji. After dancing for a while, I went and stood beside Geetha who was simply standing and watching Swami. She said, I'm just standing here Lauren watching Swamiji. One day very soon, it will be impossible to be standing this close to Him. I didn't realize that Swami was more than a 6 feet form.

Content: My name was called out. I went up to Swamiji and for the first time prostrated at His feet. He put the big rudraksha mala around my neck and I received my first energy darshan. He then handed me my NSP certificate which had my spiritual name typed on it. He said, 'Ma Ananda Gnaneshwari Mayi. Mayi means mother.' He just smiled and said, You have motherly qualities. I just remember smiling back and saying Thank you Swamiji.

Content: I walked away from the stage and next thing I remember was some of the young girls who had been there volunteering for the NSP, ran up to me and asked me what my name was. I looked at the name and realized I couldn't even pronounce it. They just saw it and exclaimed with a hint of surprise You're a Mom?? I got the same response from a lot of people. Why the surprise? The thing was, I didn't actually realize that being given the name Mayi was a rare thing. I thought lots of women would be called Mayi. But apparently, I was one of about 15 Mayis, the youngest one and the only international one.

Content: Initially, I didn’t really know what to think about being called Mayi. People gave me their different interpretations. Some saying that it means spiritual maturity. Some saying that it means that I had a motherly connection with Him in a past life.

Content: All I understood was that the name essentially stands for the path in which you may achieve your Enlightenment. I contemplated on the name. Because I didn’t have children, maybe being named Mayi, it meant that one day, on being a mother to children, through motherhood and expressing motherly qualities, that would be my path to Enlightenment? Or since the other part of the name was Gnaneshwari, it would mean I would work towards my Enlightenment by imparting knowledge and wisdom?

Content: The qualities of a Mother; caring, nurturing, loving and supportive. Did I have to express these qualities to Swamiji personally? No, I didn’t feel I had to. I had hardly spoken a word to Him, so I knew it was not the time for me to start caring for Him the way a mother cares for a child. However, when He did name me a Mother, I felt almost instantaneously, a wave of responsibility wash over me, a sense of duty to introduce His mission to Australia. Mothers are supportive, and I felt I had to do what I could to support, nurture and care for His mission. His mission, which essentially is Him in the end.

Content: On returning to Sydney, I more or less, was a mother on a mission. My main priority was to have the first Life Bliss Program conducted in Sydney. November 12th and 13th 2005 this happened. Sri Nithya Advaithananda was the Acharya. It was great having Advaith around for those couple of days. Since he is the person responsible for writing Swamis biography, he was able to talk with me a lot about Swami. At

Content: that time, I really didn't have anyone in Sydney who I could relate to in regards to Swami and the mission etc.

Content: The next priority was to get myself along to an Acharya training. Along I went. Acharya training was an incredible experience. Set in a hilltop camp named 'Buckhorn Camp', Idyllwild LA, Swami said that this place had the same energy as the Himalayas.

Content: On seeing Swamiji for the first time since attending NSP at the ashram in Bidadi 9 months earlier, I had a glimpse of the Mayi in me. I actually experienced the feeling a Mother feels when she sees her child for the first time, in a long time. From the time the training teachers walked Him in a procession around Buckhorn camp until He gave Ananda Darshan a few hours later that evening, I was crying. Not tears of sadness. Tears I had never experienced before. Tears of absolute joy and gratitude. These tears just poured - not just out of my eyes but out of my Being.

Content: When I had first met Swamiji during NSP, I saw Him as an authoritative Master, the whole time - even after He named me a Mayi. However, during acharya training, I suddenly saw my Master only as a child. My name suddenly started to make sense to me. Me, as a 23 year old girl, would never have imagined that I would one day be looking at a 6 foot man, who was maybe 6 or 7 years older than me and seeing Him as a child. I never would have imagined that by just simply looking at some other person, I could start crying tears of joy like that! Especially someone who I never even had a conversation with. The childlike innocence Swamiji was expressing at that moment was so real, so pure. One of the most real things I had ever seen.

Content: When I experienced this, the insignificance of words became obvious to me. What are words? What is conversation? Essentially, I felt that connection with Swamiji that goes beyond words.

Content: Swami spent a lot of time with the group of trainees. At night, if we had to sit up late and study, Swami would simply lay down on His swing and go to sleep. He told the group, that we should see His face when He sleeps. How undisturbed it is. How it is like a baby sleeping, soft and flowerlike.

Content: The energy of the group was incredible. One afternoon after lunch, every one just started jumping around to kirtans. This ended up going on until dark.

Content: On Mothers day, He took us through a long meditation. When we were all asked to open our eyes, sitting in front of us was Swami radiating a beautiful and peaceful motherly energy. If the group had been a bunch of intense seekers before, we were all suddenly a gazing club.

Content: ‘Nithya Yoga’ - the new path....

Content: When I attended Acharya Training in LA May 2006, I had the privilege to meet about 10 – 12 of Swamis Moms. The lovely Medhananda Mayi at one stage during acharya training approached me and said she was compiling a book of all the mom’s reminiscences of Swamij. She asked me to contribute, however. I looked at her quite alarmed and said I didn’t know whether I actually had anything to contribute. At this stage, I had known Swami for about 9 months and had spoken about 4 words to Him. What could I possibly contribute?

Content: However, when she asked me later in the year, close to 2007 Jayanthi, I could atleast try and contribute.

Content: Although I had still hardly said much to Him, and unlike all the other Moms who have spent so much time living around Him, looking after Him and personally taking care of Him, I knew my reminiscences may not be as intimate and ‘motherly’ as others.

Content: However, I just thought I would right of my experience.

Content: Since acharya training, I had been blessed with the padukas (the Masters footwear that represents his energy) had the privilege to attend Swamis final Himalayan Yatra, attend Guru Purnima at the ashram, be initiated as a medium and walk on burning coals( fire walking).

Content: I had taught LBP and given Ananda Darshan.

Content: However, by far the most fulfilling and transformational experience of all, was being given the opportunity to help develop and nurture, Nithya Yoga.

Content: Medhananda Mayi informed me that most of the Mayis have also had a nurturing and supporting attitude towards Swamiji and his mission in some way.

Content: She suggested that I write about how my spiritual inclination, my love for yoga, my yoga teaching background and my devotion to Swamiji had all seemed to come together and made it possible for me to help in the birth of Nithya Yoga.

Content: Gnaneshwari ‘Mayi. You cannot leave for Mysore today.

Content: We must meet somewhere and we must discuss Nithya Yoga.

Content: Swami has set the deadline.

Content: It must be ready for printing by Guru Purnima in 1 month!

Content: All I felt was excitement when I received this email from Ma Nithya Maneesha.

Content: A new challenge!

Content: I was just over the moon to be asked to help with Nithya Yoga.

Content: Well I wasn’t actually asked, I was just told.

Content: Anything to do with yoga, I was more than happy to help with.

Content: A style of yoga that Swami was presenting, well there was absolutely no hesitation.

Content: Ma Maneesha and I. An unlikely pair. One from the East and one from the West. One in her 50's, the other in her 20's. One who had taught traditional Krishnamacharya style yoga, the other who had taught drill sergeant style Bikram Yoga. A completely opposite pair, however, as they say opposites attract. It was only because of our completely different backgrounds, but also at the same time being similar in that we were both healers, acharya's and mediums and that we both loved yoga that we could easily work together and develop Swamis new concept.

Content: We had a month to write an entire book based on Swamis concept and develop a manual. We needed to retreat from the world for a week, lock ourselves away and only focus on this book. Out of all the places we could have stayed, we were so lucky to be blessed to stay at the home of Ma Ananda Shakti - Valli Achi and her husband Ayya. This house is just overflowing with Swamis energy. Valli Achi and Ayya are close devotees of Swamiji's and they told me that Swamiji had actually spent a lot of time in their home before. In Swamis early days on coming to Bangalore, Satsangs were held in their home, with Him there personally.

Content: Writing Nithya Yoga just proved to me how much of Swamis energy is available to us when we do His work. A lot of us think that being around His form, being in close proximity to Him is going to give us energy and cause transformation in us. At some level, yes, this is true. But when you totally devote yourself to His work, when it becomes your life, you truly get a taste of what real energy is.

Content: Sleep has become a deep samskara within us. The idea that we need 8 hours of sleep a night to function is wrong. There was a period of about 36 hours, while at Valli Achis house when I was awake. Usually, if I have ever been awake this long, it looks obvious. I can get irritable, cranky and I look tired, blood shot

Content: eyes and all. However, when it was 3:30am in the morning and I was still sitting at the computer working away, happy and content, I thought to myself well I should be tired by now. I just wasn’t. My eyes wide and alert, I was wide awake. I just kept going and going. I have never felt energy like that before. The next day, I kept going. Relaxed and still able to concentrate.

Content: We were able to get a fair bit done at Valli Achis house. One of the best parts about helping with Nithya Yoga was that I spent a lot of time with Ma Maneesha. Maneesha is one of Swamis old time disciples. One of the ladies who was around Him in His early days in Bangalore and at the Ashram. The stories she would tell me! I have to admit, we actually spent a lot of time just sitting around in Valli Achis back garden, she entertaining me with all the early day stories of kutti ( affectionately for little children ) Swami. How they all used to sit at the back of the room during his first ASPs and assist him. How they used to laugh and play with Him. I admired the special days they spent with Him.

Content: After Valli Achis house, Maneesha and I moved into Ma Nithya Yogis house. Nithya Yoga was to be worked on in Nithya Yogis house. This house, like Valli Achis, was just overflowing with energy. Her house was the first healing centre in Bangalore. In her living room, there was a massive healing photo of Swami that looked so life like, so real it felt like He is just sitting there in the room. Next to the picture, there was a turban that Swami had given to Nithya Yogi, two katavis ( ochre robes), His paduka ( his footwear) and a rudruksh mala. Swamis entire outfit was sitting in the living room.

Content: I was almost overdosing on Swamis energy and He at that time was 1000’s of miles away in LA. It may be hard for some to believe, but I actually feel more connected with Swami and His energy when He is 1000’s of miles away then when I am sitting right in front of Him.

Content: Advaith once told me what Swami said to him when he was leaving the LA ashram. Advaith said, Swami I am leaving now.

Content: Swami just laughed and said, You are leaving? Where will you go? I am there with you always.

Content: To this day, when I think of Him saying this, it brings a smile to my face and tears to my eyes. Although He said this to Advaith, I knew this was truefor everyone.

Content: The day Swamiji was flying into Bangalore just before Guru Purnima 06 they told me to get ready to come to the airport. That day I was panicky because we had to present what we had done with Nithya Yoga within next couple of days to Him. I had quite a distressed Manipuraka. Me with my distressed Manipuraka and Ma Maneesha suffering with a locked Swadisthana. I said no, I feel I have too much to do. They said, Just come, get some of His energy. I didn’t need to go and get His energy. Nithya Yogi’s house was almost levitating!

Content: That night, Maneesha and I were told to get ourselves to the ashram immediately to present to Swami what we had done so far with Nithya Yoga. Locked chakras and all, we almost reluctantly got into a taxi and went to the ashram. Swami was actually quite happy with what we had done. The book still needed a bit of work; some adding and some deleting.

Content: Since presenting a first draft and then a second draft before I left India, (there has also been a third and currently there is a fourth draft), Swami gave a discourse in LA September 06 to a gathering of people from the yoga community. This discourse has made me understand that in a way, the ‘book’ Nithya Yoga will never do justice to what Swami is trying to present to the world through Nithya Yoga.

Content: On listening to the discourse for the first time, it became blatantly obvious that Maneesha and I had been trying to use our intellectual heads to get down on paper just what can’t be expressed on paper. Swamiji’s body language.

Content: Nithya Yoga is ultimately a representation of Patanjali. Only someone who has experienced the inner space of Patanjali can actually express what His teachings are. Books, in the form of the Yoga Sutras were the only way Patanjali’s teachings were ever recorded. Unlike Swami, where almost every word, every facial expression, and every hand gesture of His is recorded on camera, Patanjali’s teachings were never recorded in this way. So obviously, the essence, the ambience in which he conveyed His teachings and perhaps the core message of His teachings have been misinterpreted and lost over time.

Content: Just like in a game of Chinese whispers, you start with a phrase, whisper it to the next person, then that person whispers it to the next and so on. By the time you reach the final person, and they speak the phrase out loud, the phrase, more than often, is completely and utterly different to the phrase spoken at the beginning. It doesn’t even come close the original phrase. This is what happens with words. Even written words and especially words that were recorded over 5000 years ago. The message becomes morphed.

Content: I will always deeply respect Bikram Yoga and will most likely always teach it. It introduced me to yoga. If not for starting Bikram, I may never have discovered my love for yoga and may never have come to India. Everything happens for a reason.

Content: Sometimes however, I have wondered if I started teaching Bikram just to start me on this path or for another reason. Sometimes I feel that I needed to teach this style of yoga in order to gain an understanding of what yoga has been limited to.

Content: The only two systems of yoga that have been a major part of my life have been Bikram Yoga and Nithya Yoga.

Content: Bikram Yoga is a relatively new system which has only happened in the last 50 years or so. The main reason people attend is to tone up, get flexible or stop ageing. Bikram formulated a system to predominantly create good health in people.

Content: Nithya Yoga is also a new system, but as Swami has said, really it is the oldest system of yoga. Nithya Yoga is for the seekers, it is a system that prepares the body and mind for the energy that comes with Enlightenment. Nithya Yoga will create yoga (union) in individuals. Patanjali formulated a system, the 8 parts of yoga, to allow people to experience His inner space and remain in that space. The eight parts were formulated and practiced simultaneously to achieve yoga. Swami, through his body language, which is essentially the same body language of Patanjali, is representing Patanjali's original message.

Content: There is a huge samskara in the West. The samskara is;

Content: Yoga = physical exercise.

Content: Yoga = fitness.

Content: Yoga = health benefits.

Content: Yoga = looking good.

Content: You mention yoga to people and this is what instantly flashes through their minds. This sacred science has been limited to mere physical exercise. Although Nithya Yoga will include asana and although people will experience good health and improved flexibility as a side effect, it will not be the primary reason for which Nithya Yoga is practiced.

Content: It is a blessing to be helping my Master give people the new understanding (or should I say the most ancient understanding) of yoga. Sometimes I can't even comprehend the task and message that my Master has set out to re - deliver to the world. Only He can do it though.

Content: 'Ma, just transform'...

Content: I left India this year in July 06. I visited the Ashram just before I left to give to Swami some more updated work on Nithya Yoga. We were sitting in the laughing temple, Swami on His seat, Maneesha, Shiv, myself and a few other disciples standing around. Swami was asking me some questions, just in general. Sometimes when He has asked me things before, I wonder why He asks? I already feel like He knows what I am going to reply with anyway.

Content: He said to me, Ma, I called you Mayi without ever even speaking to you! I made you a medium without even knowing what you want to do with your life! What do you want to do in your life Ma?

Content: This is when I thought, well how do you not know the answer to this Swami? The answer that flashed through my mind was the obvious, well whatever you want me to do, of course? In the end, He did answer His own question anyway... Ma, just do my work. Swami should re-word this. It should be, Ma, just transform. His work cannot really be considered as work. It is Being, it is transformation, it is Nithyananda.

Content: Appendix

Content: Nithyananda...

Content: Paramahamsa Nithyananda is a Master and modern mystic living amidst us today. Starting out at a young age, and enduring years of intense penance, he persevered with the single-pointed vision of experiencing inner bliss. He traversed the length and breadth of the country studying yoga, tantra and other Eastern metaphysical sciences with great Masters in India and Nepal. He had many profound spiritual experiences before experiencing inner bliss.

Content: 327

Content: When God is my son

Content: His mission is to help each individual actualize his inherent potential. With a pragmatic and compassionate approach, and an enlightened insight into the core of human nature, he has emerged as an inspiring personality who continues to touch and transform the lives of millions across the world.

Content: His divine healing touch has taken the shape of Nithya Spiritual Healing – a scientific system of spiritual healing through meditation. He heals people world over, through his direct touch and through ordained healers, curing illnesses ranging from migraine to cancer.

Content: The Nithyananda Foundation is his worldwide movement to spread his message of meditation and bliss. With its spiritual nerve center in Bangalore, India and the Western Hemisphere headquarters in Los Angeles, USA, it operates in over 800 centers in 30 countries across the world, working steadily in transformation of humanity through transformation of the individual.

Content: His lucid explanation of practical issues and simple and dynamic meditation techniques, help individuals blossom at the physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Thousands of volunteers – Ananda Sevaks work to support the mission world over.

Content: By offering himself as a living laboratory, he works with Scientists across the globe to bridge the modern Western system of logic and evidence and the ancient Eastern system of mysticism, thus bridging Science and Spirituality for the benefit of humanity.

Content: Offerings from Nithyananda Foundation

Content: Specialized meditation programs are designed and offered continuously worldwide to benefit millions of

Content: people at the levels of body, mind and spirit. Some of the meditation programs currently offered are as

Content: follows:

Content: Ananda Spurana Program (ASP) / Life Bliss Program (LBP)

Content:

• Energize yourself!

Content: The ASP or LBP is a chakra meditation camp.

Content: It introduces us to the 7 vital energy centers in our body called the chakras, whose functioning has a direct

Content: bearing upon our physical and mental well-being. It explains the direct relationship between our emotions

Content: and these energy centers and offers simple meditation techniques for effective handling of our own

Content: emotions, better clarity and a positive mental setup, better interpersonal relationships, renewed and inspired

Content: attitude towards work, and a blissful life.

Content: There is a similar such program designed for students, referred to as the student ASP or student LBP.

Content: Nithyananda Spurana Program (NSP)

Content:

• Death demystified!

Content: Death is the mystery of all mysteries. Our idea and fear of death pervades every moment of our lives and

Content: creates conflicting emotions in us. We simply miss out on the art of real living because of this.

Content: This program clearly explains what happens at the time of death. It draws the relation between our created emotions of desire, fear, guilt, pain and pleasure with the seven energy bodies in us. It explains how each of these emotions arises from one of these seven bodies and how they work upon the departing soul as it crosses each of them. It brings to surface all our conscious and unconscious emotions that have been accumulated over the past lives, so we may be free from their clutches. It is like a complete spiritual bath to be reborn, equipped with the technique to live and leave joyously with astounding awareness to replace deep ignorance.

Content: Shakti Spurana Program (SSP)

Content:

• Cleanse yourself!

Content: This is a meditation program that gives us an insight into the 3 energy bodies in us that are the physical, subtle and causal bodies. Suppressed emotions, unfulfilled desires, restlessness, nervousness, lethargy and similar such emotions associated with these 3 energy bodies are dealt with. It offers solutions and techniques to kindle the inner intelligence to liberate ourselves from these emotions.

Content: Atma Spurana Program (ATSP)

Content:

• Connect with your Self

Content: Man is an integral part of Existence. When he realizes this experientially, he is enlightened. This meditation program describes the five body sheaths called koshas that stand in the way of man realising this truth. It offers techniques that pull our awareness through these sheaths to reach the Self.

Content: 330

Content: When God is my son

Content: Bhakti Spurana Program (BSP)

Content:

• Enrich your emotional Being

Content: Over passing years, the mind has taken over the being. Humanity has fallen victim to the futility of the

Content: intellect. The emotional being suffers as a result of this.

Content: Bhakti or devotion is the language of the being. It is supreme love towards Existence or God. It frees us

Content: from base emotions, bringing equanimity of the mind and deep fulfillment. It fulfills all our wants and

Content: takes us beyond them. The Bhakti Spurana Program is a 4-day program that unfolds the path of bhakti to

Content: the modern man. It steers us from intellect to the being, from mundane worship to sheer intimacy - with

Content: the Divine.

Content: Nithyanandam

Content:

• Enlightenment intensive...

Content: This is an intense meditation camp; a unique and first ever offering of the technology of Bliss or

Content: Nithyanandam. All keys to the ‘Experience of Enlightenment’, are handed over in totality by the Master

Content: himself. This is an opportunity to go beyond body and mind and experience pure Consciousness.

Content: Dhyana Spurana Program (DSP)

Content:

• Mind is a myth; realize and liberate!

Content: Our mind is nothing but a collection of our thoughts. By nature, our thoughts are unconnected, independent and illogical. But we try to connect all these thoughts and create suffering for ourselves. The moment we realize that our thoughts are unconnected and independent, we drop our mind and become un-clutched. The moment we drop our mind, we are liberated.

Content: The Dhyana Spurana Program is a meditation program that helps us drop our mind and remain centered in pure Consciousness.

Content: Arogya Spurana Program and meditation therapy

Content:

• Be healthy!

Content: Arogya or Good Health is not just an absence of disease, it is a positive well-being ness.

Content: The Arogya Spurana Program is an intense meditation camp, on the integrated science of body, mind and spirit. It is an opportunity to understand that our body is not just a bio-mechanism but one that has its roots in deep Consciousness and Intelligence.

Content: The Arogya Spurana Meditation therapy is a health and healing program that takes you through meditation and healing to heal specific ailments, besides creating a new mental setup attuned towards a positive wellbeingness.

Content: Nithya spiritual healing initiation

Content:

• become a healer!

Content: The Nithya spiritual healing initiation is a scientific process by which you are initiated in the Ananda Gandha chakra to become a channel for the Divine Energy to flow through you to heal others. It works on the principle that Energy is Intelligence. The uniqueness of this is that, it not only heals the patient but also helps in your own spiritual growth. Outwardly it is Healing and inwardly it is Meditation.

Content: Ananda Yogam

Content:

• Expand and explore

Content: Ananda Yogam is a free one-year residential program for youth between 18 and 30 years of age. With its roots in the Eastern system of Mysticism and Vedic learning, this program is to empower the modern youth with

Content: Vocational skills

Content: Success Formulae and deeper Truths for Life

Content: Healing, meditation and yoga for overall well-being

Content: The capacity to actualize one’s entire potential

Content: Creative intelligence and spontaneity

Content: This program creates a clear and sound mental makeup in every individual. It unleashes the untapped and infinite capacity within, to excel in the outer world while remaining centered within. It instills in one, the essence of the ancient Vedic principles and the modern system of Logic. It creates individuals with a capacity to be economically and spiritually stable.

Content: Above all, this is a lifetime opportunity to live and learn under the tutelage of an enlightened Master.

Content: Ananda Galleria (Divine Shop)

Content: The Ananda Galleria offers a wide range of books in English, Tamil, Kannada, Gujarati, Telugu, Hindi, Portuguese, French and other languages, compiled from Nithyananda’s discourses worldwide. Also available are Nithyananda’s discourses in cassettes, Audio CDs and Video CDs. In addition are available a host of items like photographs of the Master, shawls, chanting boxes, malas, chain dollars, photograph of His eyes, T-shirts and so on.

Content: SUGGESTED FOR FURTHER READING…

Content: Guaranteed Solutions

Content: Guaranteed Solutions is a book aimed at bringing a radical understanding of our emotions such as sex, fear, worry, attention-need, jealousy, ego and discontentment. The information is a compilation of the worldwide talks that Nithyananda has given in meditation camps such as the Ananda Spurana Program (ASP) and Life Bliss Program (LBP). It introduces us to the 7 vital Energy centers in our body called the chakras, whose functioning has a direct bearing upon our physical and mental well-being.

Content: The ASP/ LBP meditation camps explain the direct relationship between our emotions and these Energy centers. We are educated on the subtle ways in which these emotions affect our overall well-being. In a very comprehensive manner we are taught how these debilitating emotions are mere shadows without objects. Powerful meditation techniques are imparted to handle these emotions. We are given the assurance that it is possible to lead a life free from the power these emotions wield over us. These camps provide tremendous scope to liberate ourselves from the dilemmas of the mind and depression of our Being; to be

Content: 334

Content: free from the mental slavery that is keeping our spirit in bondage. We are helped to create a space in us to flower and re-connect with our inner core, with our true Self - which is beyond the body and mind, which is pure and Eternal Bliss Nithyananda! These meditation camps are continuously conducted worldwide by trained teachers of the Foundation.

Content: Bliss is the Path and the Goal

Content: This book is a compilation of Nithyananda's discourses covering a range of subjects, from How the Mind Works to How we abuse our bodies to Coping with the duality of material and spiritual life. It answers many questions giving an updated understanding, kindling our inner intelligence, and tuning us to inner awareness. It is a handbook to guide us through the workings of the mind, body and being so that we may live our life in bliss.

Content: Beyond Life and Death

Content: Meditation is the way to unite, to commune between birth and death. It teaches the art of living and leaving. Else, we get caught in just one more cycle of life and death. In these pages, through his discourses, Nithyananda demystifies death and explains the need to understand it. He states with no uncertainty that unless we understand death, we will not be able to live life with richness.

Content: From Ignorance to Enlightenment

Content: In this book, Nithyananda takes us through Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Sutras by definition are epigrams that mean a lot by saying very little. There are many layers of meanings in each Sutra. Nithyananda comments

Content: on these timeless Truths, giving an updated understanding to the modern man. He answers questions that many spiritual seekers have through the aphorisms of Patanjali.

Content: Nithyopanishad

Content: Upanishad means 'sitting at the feet of the Master'. Nithyopanishad is a compilation of a living enlightened Master's talks on the Master-disciple relationship. In a setting fit for the Gods, amidst the Himalayan mountains, in the lap of the sacred river Ganga, the Master expounds timeless Truths in the classic Upanishad tradition. Questions transform into doubts, doubts dissolve into awareness, as the Master spreads his energy over the group. Anyone who has himself the question, 'Why do I need a Guru?' will find his answers here.

Content: For further details and to purchase any of the above items, please visit www.nithyananda.org.

Content: Our Main Nithyananda Meditation Academies (NMA)

Content: USA:

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: 928 Huntington Dr, Duarte,

Content: Los Angeles, CA 91010. USA

Content: Ph.: 1-626 -205-3286

Content: Email: [email protected]

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: 4610, N.High Street

Content: Columbus, OH 43214, USA

Content: Ph.: 614-571-8425

Content: India:

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Nithyanandapuri, Kallugopahalli

Content: Mysore Road, Bidadi, Bangalore - 562 109

Content: Karnataka. INDIA

Content: Phone: 91 +80 65591844 / 27202084

Content: Fax: 91 +80 7288207

Content: Email: [email protected]

Content: URL: www.nithyananda.org

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Sri Ananda Rajarajeshwari Temple, Nithyananda Giri

Content: Pashambanda Sathamrai Village

Content: Shamshabad Mandal, Rangareddy District

Content: Andhra Pradesh - 501 218. INDIA

Content: Ph.: +91 93470 65288

Content: E-mail: [email protected]

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Nithyanandapuri

Content: 102, Azhagaparamputhur, Salem - 636 016

Content: Tamilnadu. INDIA

Content: Ph.: 94433 64644 / 94432 35262

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Nithyanandapuri

Content: Zamin Pallavaram, Chennai - 600 043 Tamilnadu

Content: INDIA

Content: Ph.: 98404 27966 / 94440 19791

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Nithyanandapuri

Content: Othaivaadai Street, Pavazhakundru, Tiruvannamalai - 606 601

Content: Tamilnadu. INDIA

Content: Ph.: 94432 33789 / 94433 26202

Content: Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam

Content: Nithyanandapuri

Content: 2/200, Tirumangkuruchi Post

Content: Namakkal - 637 003

Content: Pavazhakundru, Tamilnadu. INDIA

Content: Ph.: 94433 88437 / 93447 17629

Content: When God is my Son is a rare collection of reminiscences of 15 women disciples of Nithyananda whom he calls 'Mom', who have been blessed to grow in the path of Vaatsalya Bhaava. Bhaava essentially is a relationship between the devotee and the master. Vaatsalya Bhaava itself is the master-disciple relationship where the master is seen as your child.

Content: Bhairavi Brahmani took care of Ramakrishna like her own child, as Maria took care of Jesus, and Yashoda took care of Krishna. These are evidences in history that people have taken care of the Divine as their child.

Content: When the master chooses to give his intimate space to his disciples to grow in Vaatsalya Bhaava, the motherly love and care showered on him enters the divine prism to exit and scatter like a brilliant rainbow in all directions through the 'moms'. Their consciousness simply explodes in the dimension of unconditional love for the entire universe.

Content: This love can take one beyond oneself and liberate from all bondages, including that with the divine.

Content: Vaatsalya Bhaava is the tool for the ultimate transcendence, for enlightenment itself!

Content: Ebook ISBN:

Content: 979-8-88572-253-7

Content: Reminiscences of HIS moms