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CHAPTER 1

AN INTRODUCTION TO GAYATRI YAJNA SCIENCE

All activities of the entire cosmos revolve around the axis of Yajnas. Great Rishis of yore proclaim: “Ayam Yajno Vishwasya Bhuvanasya Naabhihi” (Atharva Veda 9/15/14). It means Yajnas are the central focus of this cosmos. The divine singer of Bhagwad Geeta i.e. Lord Krishna too says: “Sahayajnaahaa prajaahaa purovaacha prajapatihi. Anaina prasavishvadhwamesha vostvishtakaamadhuka.”(3/10). It means that at the beginning of this Kalpa (creation) Brahma after creating Yajnas, living beings etc advised them to propagate via the medium of Yajnas because these Yajnas will fulfill your material/spiritual needs. Yajnas are those extremely precious boons given to world humanity by Vedic Rishis of ancient India which is a foundation stone of material/spiritual bliss and maintaining a healthy ecosystem (especially today when world leaders are worried about environmental pollution and global warming).

Every word of the nectar like writings of HH Gurudeva Shriram Sharma Acharya throws light on the great foundation stones of Divine Culture viz. Yajnas and Science of Super Mantra Gayatri. He elucidates the miraculous results of divine energy emitted via Gayatri Mantra chanting and thus the vital energy of the Gayatri devotee becomes more potent by leaps and bounds. Our revered author-seer uprooted (symbolically and not literally) the erroneous concept of Yajnas which were based on mythological (Puranas) description and instead reinstated Super Mantra Gayatri Yajnas based on Vedic precepts. Such Gayatri Yajnas were ‘hungrily’ imbibed by thousands of devotees since their resultant benefits were incredible to say the least. This we can emphatically say is a revolutionary endeavor of this era. It is even greater in stature when compared to the revolution of post Yogiraj Gorakhnath’s times wherein thousands were obstructed from misusing Tantra spiritual practices including Tantra based Yajnas. (During Gorakhnathji’s life time Tantra was used most appropriately but it was after the great sage shed his mortal coil that rampant misuse of Tantra by ignoramuses set in). Today thanks to our revered Yuga Rishiji in so many pious households Gayatri Yajnas are being performed regularly so that an optimum sacred environment sets in to usher in a radiant world future in the 21^st Century.

While giving us the true meaning of the sacred word ‘Yajna’ our revered author says that our life should it self become a Yajna both internally and externally. While throwing light on Bhagwad Geeta’s verse viz. “Yajnaarthaat karmanonyatra lokoyam karmabandhanaha” he says a supremely great life involves executing actions based on the spirit of Yajnas. Other than these all actions bind us to this world and obstruct a living being from merging into God who is the cosmic being and eternal divine bliss manifest. The word ‘Yajna’ cannot be limited to the uttering ‘Swaahaa’ while carrying out fire sacrifices which offer sacred materials to the Yajna deity. Instead Yajna means purifying our personality from its very fount so that divinity oozes from the pore of man’s entire being (this is true personality development). True worship of God encompasses respecting latent divine powers in the deep recesses of the soul and awakening them. Manu Smriti says: “Mahaayajnaishcha braahmeeyam kriyatay tanuhu”. It means a supreme Yajna is one wherein man living a life of divine virtues constantly perseveres to sanctify his body, mind and soul from their very roots.

Yajna is a high stature endeavor executed for supreme material and spiritual gains. First the inner world imbibes divinity and then after offering Prana to Apan and vice versa Samidha (wood fuel of fire sacrifice) in the form of ones life is offered in the Yajna called world welfare. Thus know for sure that this indeed is the elucidation of a true Yajna. If our sentimental arena exudes greatness and translates the same in external social, professional and other activities indeed it becomes a true Yajna. Our revered author by giving such an extraordinary meaning of a Yajna has actually echoed the root meaning of Yajnas as per Vedic injunctions. In the Sanskrit language the word Yajna emerges from its root ‘Yaja’ which comnnotes worship of divinity, association with great saints, congregation of pious people and rendering the world powerful via international brotherhood and unity.

Amongst the 24 Avatars is included the Lord of Yajnas. Yajna is a worship icon in Indian culture and any action that does not include a Yajna basis cannot even be dreamt of. While describing the scientific aspect of Yajnas our revered author says it is a very important principle in keeping well managed all cosmic activities. Satiating divine elements means maintaining a healthy balance amongst all cosmic forces (material and spiritual) that manage this world. In today’s modern day context you can say that Yajna is akin to a ‘tax’. Just as if you do not pay taxes governmental tax authorities can punish you so too if you do not show gratefulness to nature (for giving you free air, water, light etc without billing you!) by offering materials (Ahuti) in Yajnas nature shows her wrath in the form of natural calamities like earthquakes, famines, floods, hurricanes, tsunamis etc. Thus the scientific basis of averting natural calamities is Yajna.

CHAPTER 2

GAYATRI YAJNAS: ITS UTILITY ASPECT AND DIRE NEED

Super Mantra Gayatri and Yajnas are like an inseparable couple. One is the mother of Indian culture and the other is the father of Indian spirituality. Both are mutually dependent on one another. Without executing a Yajna at the end of a Gayatri Mantra chanting program (Anushthaan) the latter remains incomplete. One portion of Japaor Mantra chanting is in the form of Havan or fire sacrifice. In ancient times when people were materially well off a tenth portion of Mantra chanting program was devoted to Yajna. But looking at today’s circumstances a 100^th portion of the number of Mantras chanted is offered as Ahutis (sacred materials to the Yajna fire saying ‘Swaahaa’) to a Yajna. Without this an Anushthaan remain incomplete. A question may arise that what happens to those who are not materially very well off? The answer is that such individuals should chant extra Mantras amounting to a 10^th portion of the number chanted during an Anushthaan. For them this extra Mantra Japa is considered equivalent to performing a Yajna. By giving this option it is not as though Yana is being ignored but that its importance albeit indirectly has been highlighted. Again it should be noted that this arrangement is only for the poor strata of society.

A dialogue between Janak and Yajnavalkya regarding the non availability of Yajna materials took place. Janak insisted the problems of Yajna performance are many and Yajnavalkya kept giving solutions to those problems thus insisting that Yajnas were a very important aspect of Vedic culture. Janak asked: Suppose Yajna materials like Charu are not available what is to be done? The answer was: Conduct Yajnas using materials eaten by a person daily (rice, wheat, millet etc grains). Janak asked: Suppose there is no food what happens then? The answer is make-do with plants. Janak asked: Suppose there are no plants? The answer was that use only Samidha (wood based fuel) for the Yajna. Janak asked: Suppose fire itself is not available? The answer is that mentally execute a Yajna using the fire of faith in a meditative manner. This is the gist of the long conversation that had taken place.

From the above it becomes clear that along with Gayatri Mantra Japa conducting a Yajna is a must. Further in an Anushthaan both these are mutually conjoined. Gayatri Japa and 5-fold Yajna are imperative. We all know that conjoined to meditative methods are the Balivaishwa rites and it is nothing but a mini Yajna. During dire times this Balivaishwa rite became so miniscule that women after taking fire from their cooking pyre offered 5 small parts of a Roti (Indian wheat bread) to it while chanting the Gayatri Mantra. Thus it was taken to be a Yajna. Further those who worshipped Gayatri regularly too performed this miniscule Yajna. Before partaking food they would remove 5 small portions of food from their plates and offer it to a small bowl of fire. Even today here and there this tradition can be seen in India. Today Yuga Nirman Mission is trying to rejuvenate this tradion of miniscule Yajnas.

In ancient India great Rishi-Seers kept in mind at every step, wisdom, subtle viewpoint, utility and state of facts before embarking on any world welfare program. Despite giving due importance to Yajnas in religious activities they have kept many other precepts in mind too. They could never make any endeavor which had no great utility value. They have always gave due emphasis to the results and attainments while giving more importance to any sacred endeavor. Thus they gave Yajnas more importance amongst all spiritual endeavors keeping in mind their capacity to bestow world denizens both material and spiritual prosperity.

In Indian scripture one amongst many names of Almighty God is ‘Yajna Purusha’. Within the Shruti of Shatpath (‘Yajno vai Vishnu’) Yajna is said to be synonymous with Lord Vishnu. In the preliminary portion of Rig-Vedas Yajnas are described as a guide, preceptor, Purohit, Guru etc. While calling those who sing God’s eulogies as Deva or divinity manifest this endeavor’s fruits are called Ratna or jewel. In Vedic literature so much information is given on Yajna science and its deep import that no other information can match it. In one Vedic verse it is said “Agnay naya supathaa raayay”. It means requesting earnestly this Super Divine Fire to take all creatures to the shores of divine greatness. The same meaning can be found in Gayatri Mantra’s portion of “Dheeyo yo naha prachodayaata”.

Within the normal lifestyle of mankind Yajnas are inseparably bound to their worship rites. Right from birth to death Shodasha Sanskaaras or the 16-fold rites have been prescribed by Indian scriptures. All these are synonymous with the concept of Yajnas. Without executing a yajna none of these 16 rites can be completed. The word Yajnopaveet (sacred thread ceremony) which is one of these 16 Sanskaaras comes from the word Yajna. Yajnopaveet is a combination of Gayatri’s sacred sentiments and Yajna rites. In Indian marriage ceremony the bride and groom circumambulate the Yajna pyre without which the marriage ceremony remains incomplete. It is only after circumambulation of the Yajna pyre (7 Pheraas) is executed that the couple is declared as married or husband/wife. The last Sanskaara is Antyeshti. The funeral pyre in its pure aspect is a big sized Yajna. A funeral pyre may be lit with proper or half proper rules yet so many rules of Yajna have to be observed. The Puraahuti called Kapaal Kriya is done offering Ghee Ahuti (clarified butter).

The annual Yajna in the form of the Holi Festival of colors yet pervades in some form or the other everywhere. When worship programs pf gods/goddesses are performed some form of a Yajna too is executed. In certain cases lighting of incense sticks or a flame lamp is taken to be a representation of a miniscule Yajna form. Overhere incense stick symbolizes the Yajna materials and the flame lamp as Ghee offered to the Yajna fire. Whenever auspicious activities are carried out some form of a Yajna too is performed. It maybe an actual Yajna or a representation of it by lighting incense sticks and flame lamp (Deepak) as mentioned above.

The point that needs cogitation is why have Yajnas been given a prime spot in Indian culture? As an answer to this we can surely say that the more one dives deep into the concept of Yajnas the more its mysteries unfold. It then becomes crystal clear that Yajnas have their basis in both science and divine wisdom. Al those principles that back both material and spiritual advancement are embedded in seed form within the concept of Yajnas. The very vital principles of peace and bliss both individually and universally manifest superbly through the medium of sacred Yajnas.

The deep import of Yajna connotes spirituality and also an act of generosity. According to Sanskrit language Yajna comes from its root ‘Yaja’ which has 3 meanings viz. 1) divinity 2) congregation 3) charity. These 3 are divine streams which augment great qualities in both the individual and world at large. Divinity means a sacred character full of divine qualities. Congregation means unity, cooperation and world brotherhood. Charity means commitment to social well being and aiming to realize the dream of ‘World united peacefully as a family’. In other words it means creating “A BEAUTIFUL BORDERLESS WORLD”. Thus Yajna represents all these 3 streams of activities. It can also be called a flag that represents these various activities. The flaming red torch of Jnana Yajna (Wisdom) is also called the representative of this Yajna Fire. Thought Revolution and Ritambhara Prajna or Divine Intellect is the vital force of Super Mantra Gayatri. Within the Yajna movement devotees are given due inspiration to translate pious qualities into wholesome professional, social and other actions. The basis of progress lies in knowledge and actions. Pious actions are called penance and sacred wisdom is called Yoga. Even for material progress intense perseverance and education are emphasized upon. Within them one gets a glimpse of Gayatri and Yajna precepts.

The Spiritual Philosophy of life’s Yajna makes man great and full of glory. Along with the concept of cosmic consciousness (Almighty Lord for the layman) Vedas exhort us to partake Yajnaavashishta (sanctified remnants of Yajna offerings). He who eats without sharing with others is called a cheat and a thief. There are many Vedic Sooktas (verses) which say that demigods attained divinity through the medium of Yajnas. Over here world humanity is commanded to work for world welfare. In a nutshell we can say that Yajna philosophy motivates world humanity to imbibe a great character at the individual level and at the world level a sense of brotherhood and unity by working selflessly for its material and spiritual progress. This is that supreme path which will help us attain all round advancement both individually and cosmically.

While describing the subtle inspirations imbued in the iconic image of Yajnas a very appropriate teaching is given to individuals to maintain inner/external purity and this make the world potent both materially and spiritually. This teaching is so extraordinary that it is difficult to find its match in other sacred scriptures. The Fire of Yajna manifests so many special qualities as follows:

1)     Always keep the head high-even if there is a problem never allow the head to droop down

2)     We must treat everyone whom we come in contact with as our equals.

3)     Whatever one procures or earns must not be hoarded but used for world peace and prosperity.

4)     Never allow lack as far as heat and light is concerned to attack your very existence.

5)     Always utilize your material and spiritual prowess for world well being.

According to the Rig-Veda Yagna Fire is a Purohit (priest) appointed by Almighty God and despite the speech remaining mute it inspires world denizens to aspire for all round progress and peace via its activities. If apt social education is imparted wherein first one understands the importance of the above 5 glories and then putting them into practice divinity can manifest in mankind and heaven like situation will manifest on Earth. Thus Satyuga or Golden Age that reigned in ancient times can return with greater vim and vigor for a long time span to come. The tricolor of India’s flag symbolizes the 3 principles on which India’s progress is based on. If only a wisdom and sacred sentimental based description of the 5 inspirations of Yajna Fire can be given they can easily be imbibed both by the individual and society at large for all round growth. For era Transformation to manifest in a full fledged manner along with a radiant world future these ideals must be etched firmly in the psyche of world humanity.

It is said that after performing Yajnas demigods attained divinity. It is also said that only via Yajnas can true Brahmin-hood manifest in animal-men. One third of the 6 endeavors executed by Brahmins have to be devoted to performing Yajnas and helping other laymen do so. From an indirect standpoint within these proclamations the grandeur of those precepts pertaining to purity and brilliance are pinpointed which are the foundation stones of the very life force of yajna and world peace/brotherhood. The entire cycle of individual and society, nature and creation circumambulates on the axis of the Wheel of Yajnas. It is the Yajna Philosophy of generous cooperation that creates situations of activeness, good management, advancement and joy/peace in every nook and corner of the world. The life of the human chariot works fine simply because all its parts (organs like heart, lungs etc) work in tandem. Ere these organs harbor narrow minded attitudes, selfishness, vanity and refuse to cooperate with one another our life’s journey will end on the spot. The Water Cycle of nature is crystal clear: Clouds get water from the ocean, earth from clouds, rivers from earth and ocean from flowing rivers. If even one leg of this cycle is obstructed know for sure that our planet Earth will sizzle like blazing infernos. In the Living Being Cycle, living beings devour plants. Plants in turn get their food from the feces and urine of living beings. Both are mutually related to one another. Plants exhale oxygen which is a life support for many creatures, especially human beings. In turn human beings exhale carbon dioxide gas which is inhaled for sustenance by the plant kingdom. The same magnanimous cooperation exists between animals and human beings. This is Yajna according to the Vedas and thus the Wheel of Creation/Time keeps rotating. By imbibing the true concept of Yajna man gets a golden opportunity to rise higher in life especially in comparison to other beings. But when this sacred ideal is ignored innumerous dire situations are witnessed the world over. When the sacred activities of Yajna are imbibed truly every problem will find its solution. Human welfare and Yajna ideals are 2 legs of one single tenet. Hence the author of Bhagwad Geeta says: Prajaapati created human beings and Yajnas simultaneously and proclaimed that if they worked for mutual welfare in tandem not one of them will lack joy, peace and a stress free life. This great tenet of world well being is called Yajna Philosophy. In order that the world is educated in this respect Agnihotra (fire sacrifice) in the form of an iconic solution has been revered as a leading religious/spiritual activity.

Yajna also encompasses material science. Yajnas contribute gigantically by purifying foul air and rendering it very fragrant. Thus man’s very life support viz. air/oxygen is rendered clean and pollution free. Today air pollution has become a very big world problem and hence if the concept of Yajna is given due importance air pollution can be destroyed from its very roots.

Yajna Energy abounds with power to destroy bacteria and other germs that cause various diseases. We are quite sure such an easy, widespread and cheap method of healing has yet to be unearthed to date. Ancient spiritual texts are full of healing methods both as far as the mind and physical body are concerned. If only these pages are opened and referred to avidly not only bodily but psychological/psychiatric illnesses too can be tackled very efficiently. Amongst various healing methods the world over Yajna healing can get predominance simply because its healing herbs are administered with great ease in the human body via very subtle/pure air. Today medicines are administered using very gross mediums and hence they fail to penetrate very deeply into the various organs of the body. If today’s world situation is analyzed very deeply what stands out that more than physical diseases it is vile mental taints like bad habits, addiction to drugs etc, criminal tendencies, unruliness, anger, erroneous thinking, hatred and a stressful life which gives more hardships to world humanity. Thus when Yajna Therapy will be presented in a very compact form to the entire world it will surely help overcome mental stress and bodily diseases in a big way.

The cosmic widespread influence of Yajna programs result in benefits like Parjanya especially in drought and famine conditions. The gross meaning of Parjanya is clouds and hence rains. But the subtle meaning is rain of Vital Force. In the ancient times of the Yajna Era heavy rains lashed out in all corners of the world. For this special Yajnas can be conducted pertaining to rain bearing cloud formation. Even today, many a time this Yajna technique has given wonderful results wherein it rained on otherwise parched and arid lands. And yet Parjanya should not be restricted to showering of rain water. Instead the deeper meaning is said to be the Vital Force Principle which via the medium of Yajnas is formed in space and via wind and clouds it gets showered as Vital Force rain water. This rain of Vital Force neo creates the inner personality of both animate and inanimate beings (an outstanding method of personality development). This Vital Force based Parjanya nourishes and makes more potent materials like plants, herbs, water, food, air, milk etc which are vital for man’s sustenance. Their power augments manifold. With the result if any animal, bird, human being etc utilize these their radiance will surely go in the upward direction in an untold manner. This attainment doubtlessly will aid all round progress of the entire world.

More than purification of air it is more prudent to sanctify the world’s atmosphere. Pure air aids good health. The atmosphere influences every nook of our personality and hence in its development. In turn it gives a positively wholesome direction to our previously wayward thinking process. Thus a strong foundation of transformation of our actions (social, professional etc) is laid down. The Yuga Nirmaan Mission aims at sanctifying world psyche from its very grass roots. For this no doubt, activities of propaganda and creativity are required, writings and speeches on this subject are welcome but remember that these gross endeavors cannot fully influence and transform those sensitive layers of the human psyche. In fact the very flow of the subtle world will have to be reversed. The atmosphere definitely is influenced by winter, summer, rains etc and this in turn will transform world circumstances by leaps and bound. In the same way, if the measure of greatness inspiring elements augment a great deal in the subtle atmosphere it will be a tad easier to flow along with the general trends of the world. When it becomes windy the speed of a boat picks up a lot. A certain wholesome atmosphere needs to be created if a bright world future has to set in. This is where Gayatri Yajnas step in and take over the mantle of inducing, a conducive subtle atmosphere.

CHAPTER 3

SUPER MANTRA GAYATRI AND YAJNAS MUTUALLY BENEFIT EACH OTHER

Yajna and Gayatri are inseparably bound to one another. The following verses eulogize the great import of Yajna and Yajna Purusha:

“He who is worshipped via Yajnas, who is Yajna incarnate and Yajna manifest is none other than Lord Vishnu and I bow down to him.”

Yajna satiates innumerable desires of humanity and also bestows them with heaven and salvation (Moksha). Those who renounce Yajnas are derided a great deal in Vedic scriptures:

“Yajna help us in atoning for many sins and thus with a sacred mind we can attain the abode of Almighty God.”

……………(HAAREETI)

Taking cognizance of this great aspect of Yajnas our country India was known encourage them in a big way. Via Yajnas people got their desires fulfilled in their own way. Balivaishwa Yajnas are known to help people achieve a happy householder’s way of life faith in God, spirituality and mental purity. Vaajpeya Yajnas helped awaken the latent soul forces and intellectual/ethical consciousness of world humanity. Rajasuya Yajnas were executed so as to solve political and governance problems. Gayatri Yajnas are said to be a symbol of all these.

“Great scholars accept the auspiciousness of Agnihotra performed with the help of apt Gayatri Mantra chanting on all occasions”.

…………………GAYATRI SAMHITAA/70

“ Yajna is the supreme most action of this world. Those who do not perform Yajnas lose their divine aura. Although it is true that nothing is greater than Agnihotra rites yet Gayatri reigns supreme amongst all Agnohotra methods”.

……………….GAUTAM 5/7/12

In the Yajna Yaag Samhita we are advised to commence every auspicious program with a Gayatri Yajna.

In the Gaargeeya Samhita it is said: Who ever worships Primordial Divine Energy Gayatrivia Yajnas isactually worshipping Almighty God via the medium of gods/goddesses. Meaning, worshipping and performing Yajnas of the Vedic Mother Gayatri amounts to worshipping all gods/goddesses.

Gayatri Yajnas executed with the aim of fulfilling material desires too bears fruit immediately. Any individual who worships Gayatri for fulfilling any desire will actually witness it being fulfilled. And at the time of death he/she attains God’s supreme abode.

It was only after deeply realizing the great import of Gayatri Yajnas that they were encouraged and lauded worldwide. Whenever Yajnas were ignored dire circumstances were faced both individually and socially. Hence it is imperative that Gayatri Yajnas be performed again with a sound scientific basis. The tradition of Agnihotra must recommence in every household the world over. There was a time when this did happen in ancient India and hence it was a period of heavenly comforts and inner bliss too. Why is the world today so full of strife and stress? It is because we have ignored Yajnas at our own peril.

In layman’s parlance Yajna is synonymous with charity, congregationalism and worship of Almighty God. The deeper meaning is contribution towards divine endeavors in a congregational manner. This is that meritorious deed which helps an animal-man to pole vault into a human god. Human glory is definitely rooted in this generous attitude of service to the world in a selfless manner. Just as the ore of gold sheds its dirt when exposed to fire so as to shine brightly so too when mankind imbibes the philosophy of Yajnas they climb the peak of greatness and thus march towards divinity.

Vedas are nothing but the Speech of Almighty God. Shruti is the process of hearing and conveying this timeless Divine Wisdom. When this ‘hear’ and ‘say’ was penned it was called Chanda (also poetic meter). Further when it is transformed into the divine power of Shabda Brahman and Naad Brahman it is called a Mantra. Vedic Richas are called Shriti and Chandas are called Mantras. They ooze with potent divine mysterious powers of knowledge and science. Amongst all Vedas it is said that at first Riga Veda manifested. The very first Mantra of riga Veda is “AGNI MEEDAY PUROHITAM”. In this Richa God is called Agni or Fire and with the grace of the fire of that Purohit everything can be attained which man so desires.

Since Almighty God is omnipresent He is in the absolute sense without name and form (Niraakaar). God can be experienced only as Sat-Chit-Anand ot Existence-Consciousness-Bliss. If we wish to see God at ‘work’ it can be done via ones causal body as good will, subtle body as great thinking and gross body as wholesome actions. Or else by looking upon this world as a cosmic form of the Divine Lord one can contribute like a cog in the wheel to render the world advanced and progressive via selfless service, spiritual practices and Karma Yoga. And yet for the purpose of worship if an image is required other than fire none can depict God’s divine form. The very first Mantra of Riga Veda accepts God’s image for meditation and devotional purposes in the form of fire. Thus it says God is Divine Fire. Other synonymous terms include Brahman Tejas, Latent Light, Divine Light, Sacred Light etc.

Research scholars in the field of primordial worship methods in Indian Religious Culture have called it Fire worship. Aryans dwelling in Iran called themselves Parsis and yet their mode of worship is predominantly fire based. Their worship homes are called Fire Temples. In India the Jwalamukhi Temple situated in the state of Punjab is very famous wherein fire is worshipped. Eternally lit fires in the form of pyres were reinstated in the Ashramas or hermitages of great Rishis of yore. Within Vedic rituals devotees are commanded to light 5 eternal fires and regularly perform Yajnas in it. In mythological times although the 5 Yajnas were associated with ones daily worship duties but along with it food disbursement and other such activities were too attached to them.

What exactly is Agnihotra? It is using fire as an image of God and worshipping him. Agnihotra is performed during all wholesome endeavors, festivals and special auspicious rites/rituals. The festival of color called Holi is an annual congregational Yajna. In Sanskrit language ‘Holi’ means the new food grains grown in a new harvest. Holi is fire sacrifice carried out using these new grains as sacred offering to the fire. It is a festival of joy and is observed as a congregational Yajna. Alas today that great tradition of Holi has taken a highly distorted appearance. People merely burn wooden sticks and erroneously satisfy them selves calling it ‘Holi’. And yet before this fire sacrifice a tradition that includes a worship rite and after the fire sacrifice the holy ashes are devotionally applied to the forehead which goes on to show that it is nothing but a meritorious tradition of the congregational annual Yajna. India’s festival of lights called Deepavali involves reinstating of God of fire. In other small big festivals a symbolic fire sacrifice called Havan is generally performed. Women of India remove flame from their stoves and offer little ghee, cloves, sweet meats and other food items to it. After this they circumambulate this fire pouring a little water alongside. Thus they perform a symbolic Agnihotra rite.

There exist 16 Sanskars or rites right from Punswan to Antyeshti wherein Havan has to be performed imperatively. In fact 2 of these rites predominate with Havan. Vows taken with fire as witness only are given due recognition and the bride and groom circumambulate it 4 or 7 times for the marriage rite to be recognized as completed. It is said that the Yajna fire binds the souls of the bride and groom inseparably akin to welding of 2 iron bars. A hindu’s body is cremated after death in a Yajna Fire called Chitaa. This in its pure form is called Antyeshti rite. Ghee and other materials are added to the fire and hence in a very gross manner it can be called Agnihotra. The Vaanaprashtha Sanskar is said to be completed only if Yajna rites are performed. The Yajnopaveet or thread ceremony rite is named after Yajna. Via sacred Yajna ritual a sacred thread is worn across the chest and is called Upanayan. The same holds true for other Sanskaras. Agnihotra is imperative for these too. In other religions too flame lamps, candles, incense, lanterns etc are lit and hence over here too fire is reinstated during their worship programs.

Even during spiritual practices Havan is most required. All the Paaths (reading scriptures etc), Mantra chanting and other rituals maybe either Vedic or Tantra based yet performing Havan in one form or the other is most required. Even in Gayatri devotional practices Havan is a must. Barring certain situations where the 10^th portion cannot be offered as Ahuti to the Havan yet a 100^th portion of it has to be performed without fail. Gayatri is our mother and Yajna is our father. When these 2 unite man is reborn spiritually and is called Dwija (twice born). Dwijas include Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas. Dwija means to be born twice. Just as it is man’s righteous duty to serve his biological parents who gave him/her birth so too it is the spiritual duty of a devotee to serve his/her spiritual mother Gayatri and spiritual father Yajna on a regular basis.

At every step in religious literature Yajnas are eulogized. Vedas predominate with information on Yajnas simply because Yajna is that science which bestows both material and spiritual bliss on world creatures. The Almighty Lord can always be appeased via Yajnas. Hence it is said (Bhagwad Geeta 3/10/11):

“Brahmaji created Yajnas also when he created human beings. Human beings were told that via Yajnas they will progress in life and that it was a sure means to fulfill all their desires. Humans were asked to nurture demigods via Yajnas and in turn they would help human advancement. Thus when both performed their duties aptly both attained all round prosperity. Demigods nourished via Yajnas would in turn help human beings prosper by leaps and bounds.

There are so many sacred texts which vouchsafe the deep import of Yajnas. In ancient times gigantic Yajnas were executed for both material and spiritual gains. Demigods, demons, Rishis, kings and ordinary householders too performed many Yajnas. Demons always set about destroying Yajnas being performed by sages and saintly people because they were sure that the latter would prosper both materially and spiritually and this the demons could not tolerate. In the same way Yajnas of demons too were destroyed because otherwise they would attain more demonic powers to harass innocent laymen. In the epic Ramayana there is a description of a very large scale Yajna being performed by demons or Asuras which was finally destroyed by the saintly Hanumanji. This had to be done because assuming the Yajna succeeded demons would have become invincible.

King Dashrath performed the Putreshti Yajna and thus fathered 4 sons. King Nriga entered heaven by performing Yajnas and thus dethroned its King Indra. King Ashwapati performed a Yajna and thus fathered a son. King indra of heaven attained all that he possessed via Yajnas. Lord Rama too had performed the Ashwamedha Yajna. Shri Krishna advised the Pandavas to perform the Rajasuya Yajna wherein the Lord himself welcomed guests and looked after their requirements. Havan Yajnas are carried out for atonements of sins, minimizing effects of a dire destiny, fulfilling a lack, overcoming diseases, attaining auspiciousness, appeasing demigods, attaining a good harvest, downpour of nectar like rains, overcoming air pollution etc and doubtlessly Yajnas aid in the success of these endeavors.

Yajna is a very important science. The fuel used from various trees to light the Yajna fire is imbued with special qualities. For which disease which herb is used? All this has a strong scientific basis. When certain materials are united the resultant admixture possesses a special quality which when exposed to fire rises up in the atmosphere so as to detoxify and de-pollute it. Further when Vedic Mantras are chanted simultaneously the influence on the atmosphere is that much more potently positive. Thus not only is air pollution taken care of but that individuals nearby Yajnas benefit health wise both physically and mentally. How do we describe demigods? They are nothing but various subtle powers at work in the deep cave of subtle nature or Prakriti. What is the meaning of appeasing demigods? The answer is it is the establishment of a good wholesome rapport with these subtle forces of nature. This goal can be easily fulfilled via performing of Yajnas.

CHAPTER 4

AN IMPERATIVE NEED TO INCLUDE AGNIHOTRA IN OUR DAILY LIVING

What does it signify when we say that by looking upon Fire as Purohit (religious preacher) worship and eulogize it? It means that one must imbibe idealistic inspirations embedded in the subtle aspect of fire. Te special aspects of fire are: 1) Fire is always manifesting heat and light. Thus fire inspires to heat up our perseverance and hard work and its light inspires to become brilliant and well known in a wholesome way. 2) The flame of fire always points in the upward direction. One may try to pin it down and yet it will elude you and continue its upward march. This inspires to ignore that pressure which tries to induce us to lead a demeaned life of eat drink and be merry. Whatever be the enticement and allurement we must pay no heed to it and instead march in the upward direction of glory and greatness. 3) Any object thrown into fire merges into fire. Our greatness too should be such that whoever contact us becomes great too. Thus a cascading effect of greatness can take place in the entire world. 4) Whenever anything is given to fire it will not hoard but instead after making it gaseous spreads it in all directions of the atmosphere. In the same way how much ever wealth we possess, talent we possess it must be used for world well being without any discrimination or bias. We must refrain from hoarding wealth and skills and instead our inner character should be synonymous with generosity which should translate as selfless activities for world welfare. 5) The remnants of fire are in the form of ash. Why is the ash of Yajna fire applied to the forehead? The answer is that the human being needs to remember that death is round the corner and hence must use this precious human life for wholesome and selfless tasks which not only uplift that person but that he/she contribute like a cog in the wheel towards world welfare activities. These 5 teachings come under the 5 fold Science of Fire or Panchagni Vidya. Thus man is exhorted to deeply understand these precepts and actually manifest them in his day to day dealings with the world. Thus mankind gets a golden chance to lead a Yajna way of life. He or she who imbibes great teachings while performing the symbolic rite of a Yajna in his/her day to day lifestyle attains divine bliss and self fulfillment for sure.

Yajnas are very sacred religious rites and also a great philosophy of life. Yana symbolizes sanctity and spirituality. Fir itself is pure and purifies anything that it contacts even if the object is impure. Fire does nothing for itself and that all its actions are selflessly executed for others’ benefits. The Yajna doer denies himself/herself ghee, sweet meats, grains etc so that he/she can perform a Yajna for everyone’s well being. Fire makes these materials gaseous in form so that when they enter the atmosphere all creatures inhale it and thus benefit both physically and mentally. In this manner the Yajna doer via Ahutis gives subtle ‘food’ to all world creatures and thus acquires Punya or sacred merits. In comparison to food air is more precious. Once people inhale these Yajna fumes imbued with vital force attain bodily strength, good health and a long life span. In comparison to these sacred Yajna fumes the effect of eating healthy food is not very long lasting. Mediocre food can be endured for a certain time span but polluted air cause major problems almost immediately. Yajna involves rendering air very potent by imbuing it with strong vital force. This sacred potent air not only reaches a few people but that a large number of people greatly benefit from it. In comparison to feeding many people delicious food in a banquet potent Yajna fumes ‘served’ to a larger number of people is indeed more beneficial and meritorious by leaps and bounds.

True Agnihotra (fire sacrifice ritual) means imbibing renunciation, self control, sense of service, good behavior, generosity, integrity, ethics, self creation etc. In a certain sense Agnihotra is a spiritual ‘drama’ which on viewing avidly inspires people to imbibe the above listed virtues. Selfish activities are thus replaced by selfless endeavors for world peace and prosperity. There was a time in ancient eras when this Yajna tradition was fully in vogue and hence it was full of joy, advancement and well being of all in the true sense of the term. And yet later when this Yajna attitude was ignored society started moving in one direction which was downfall. Today the world over mankind’s body is alive but inwardly he is like a dead corpse. Once in ancient times King Dashrath requested Vasishthaji to perform the Putreshti Yajna so as to sire children. But Vasishthaji humbly said he was not capable enough to do so and instead, sent King Dashrath to Rishi Shringi. It is not so important how scholarly the Yajna Purohit (priest) is because it is of greater significance how devotional and great he/she is from the character standpoint. Alas today this is just not witnessed virtually anywhere. So called priests are just running after Dkashina (fees offered to priests) and other gifts given to them. Thus the very aim of Yajna that involves sanctifying the psyche of devotees lies totally ignored and unheeded. In turn this is the very reason that despite so many Yajnas performed everywhere true fruits and results of Yajnas elude one and all.

Today it has almost become a rare wonder of the world to find Yajna doers and priests themselves first imbibe greatness and spiritual values in their day to day living and then perform Yajnas that inspire others to follow in their footsteps towards higher pinnacles of glory and divine grandeur. This unfortunately is greatly lacking in this world. In order to overcome this lack the following prayer is executed:

“O Lord! Do please send us such a Guru/preceptor who teaches us the art of conducting mental Yajnas”.

…………………….Atharva Veda

Until we learn to perform Yajnas mentally its real aim remains unfulfilled even if the Havan or fire ritual is executed. The supreme goal of a true Yajna is to surrender ones entire being at the hallowed feet of   almighty God. It involves offering (Ahuti) ones mind, intellect, psyche, ego, 10 sense organs (5 of action and 5 of knowledge), 10 Pranas and all our inner wealth to Almighty God i.e. there should be total surrender. This sort of a Yajna has been discussed in the Upanishads as follows:

“In this spiritual Yajna the Yajmaan is the soul, faith is the Yajmaan’s wife, Vedi is the heart, Shikhaa are the Vedas, Hotaa is ones speech, Udgaataa is the vital force, Ardhavyu are the 2 eyes, Brahmaa is the mind, Aagreedhra are the ears and Aahvaneeya is the mouth”.

One such other description is as follows:

“Speech is the Yajna’s Hotaa, eyes are Ardhavyu, vital force is Udgaataa and mind is Brahmaa”.

…………………………Brihadaaranyak Upanishad (3/1/3-6)

The Yajna Purusha is Almighty Lord himself. When like the wood fuel of Yajna fire we surrender our all to the Almighty Lord we become God himself just as materials added to fire merge into it and become fire itself. Yajna means imbibing divine light in our inner being by performing spiritual practices like self study, acting as per God’s commandments, listening to divine inspirations, renunciation and sacrifice, devotion or Bhakti etc. By experiencing the omnipresent Lord in every pore of the cosmos we can abstain from subtle lowly activities. Even the most daring criminal will not act criminally right in front of a police station. In the same way if a person experiences the Lord’s presence 24 X 7 in every nook and corner of the world he will not even think untowardly let alone act unwholesomely. This is because if in his very soul he experiences God ‘staring’ at him how can he harbor tainted thinking which would definitely displease the Lord Almighty? Similarly if in every pore of the external world a person fells God’s presence very tangibly where will he find a ‘secret’ place to execute criminal/illegal activities? Hence he who experiences God’s omnipresence both within and without will harbor goodwill to all object of the world without discriminating whether they are conscious or inert. So this means that a spiritual Yajna is supreme wherein by looking upon Yajna Purusha/Almighty God as all pervasive we imbibe cosmic consciousness in our entire being. Great Yogis are known to persevere intensely so that they can visualize God’s presence everywhere without exception both in their soul and in the external world of name and form. Great scriptures to agree with this saying that the all pervasive Lord eternally dwells in Yajnas:

“The act of Havan is God, Havi is God, Havan is performed in fire who is God himself and God himself performs the Havan. In this manner when in the intellect of any person all actions become divine the person himself merges into God so as to become God incarnate”.

………………………Bhagwad Geeta (4/24)

“I (Almighty God) am Kratu, I am Yajna, I am Swadhaa and I am Mantra/Ghee/fire/Havan”

…………………….Bhagwad Geeta (9/13)

Within the Bhagwad Geeta in order to give us the deep import of spiritual Yajnas the latter have been portioned into smaller categories. They are Daiva Yajna, Brahma Yajna, Atma Yajna, Tapa Yajna, Yoga Yajna, Swadhyaya Yajna, Jnana Yajna, Prana Yajna, Sanyama Yajna etc. It means that while walking on the path of God/self realization and soul advancement all those means utilized are Yajna manifest.

Dravya Yajna helps spread spiritual electric currents in subtle space and thus vile mental taints like hatred, sins, selfish desires, criminality, hard heartedness etc are destroyed. The cascading result seen will be in the form of many problems getting solved. Various problems like mental complexes, stress, fear, tension, worry, anxiety and dire possibilities can be warded off. In ancient times Kings, wealthy class, Rishis, Munis etc conducted gigantic Yajnas as a result the atmosphere in a very widespread area became sacred and pure. In addition national, international and social evils were rooted out completely. The laymen householders performed Yajnas on a smaller scale which helped solve their family and village problems in a big way. For widespread joy, peace, rains, wealth, sound health etc gigantic Yajnas were required. And yet small Yajnas carried out by laymen certainly helped solve their day to day problems maybe in a bit of a limited manner. If you compare the cost of conducting Yajnas know for sure that the benefits both material and spiritual are a thousand fold more and this is not an overstatement. Thus it is crystal clear that Yajnas can never put us into a loss but is a clear win-win situation.

Those who have enough resources should conduct large scale Yajnas. The mouth of fire is the mouth of God. Whatever is fed to fire indeed is divine food. Giving Ahutis in a Yajna means feeding almighty God himself. Since God feeds us all every day it is our duty as his beloved children to conduct worship without being stingy. Of course there are those who are not financially well off and hence they are advised to volunteer in gigantic Yajnas and serve it selflessly. Else individually they can manage small Havans with whatever materials they possess. One more option is for a group of individuals to contribute finances and materials and with this collected Yajna materials perform a big Yajna. In a gigantic Yajna people of less financial means can give their time, service and help in whatever way is possible and thus actively avail the benefits of Yajna.

Agnihotra that is required to be executed daily is very easy to do so. It is not expensive and hence even a lower middle class householder can perform it. Those whose finances are extremely low should perform a Yajna on every Sunday or on a full moon day or on a moonless night with whatever materials they possess. Even the dos and don’ts of these small Havans are not burdensome at all. In the book called Gayatri Yajna Vidhaan all this has been detailed. On its basis without taking help from a priest any Dwija can easily perform Havans. If a person is totally unaware of the dos and don’ts they should offer only Ghee Ahutis by saying ‘Swaha’ every time a Gayatri Mantra is chanted. If in some form or the other the Yajna tradition flourishes it will be a great service to Indian culture. This seemingly small ritual will not only purify your household atmosphere but that the psyche of all family members will be rendered pure and taintless. Wherever Yajnas are performed regularly sin does not enter these households. Ghosts, ill fate, poverty and stress are totally rooted out. Agnihotra pleases demigods and they in turn shower us with both material and spiritual bliss.

Not from any standpoint can Yajnas incur losses of any kind. Ordinarily the wealth utilized to perform even small Yajnas is like depositing it in the ‘banks’ managed by demigods. They in turn return this wealth to you with a very big percentage of interest at the most appropriate time when that person most requires it. More important and precious are those Havan performed as per scriptural injunctions and observing apt dos and don’ts. Such Yajnas can be compared to divine weapons (they induce creativity and never destruction). It is a sure shot method of attaining divine help. In ancient times Yajnas were known to shower its doer with desired fruits. Valiant warriors imbibed a lot of divine energy via Yajnas and thus became invincible. Yogis perform penance performing Yajnas too and thus attain Self/God Realization. Yajnas are fathers of all Ridhi-Sidhi i.e. material/divine forces. Vedas call Yajnas ‘Kamadhuk’ i.e. one who fulfils man’s needs and wards off various obstacles on our path of material/spiritual progress.

For Gayatri devotees Yajnas are imperative and hence they must continue this tradition in a big way. It is the prime duty of every Dwija to maintain a Yajna atmosphere of ones home and psyche in particular. An ordinary Homa too is quite beneficial. It purifies the atmosphere of ones home, overcomes diseases and the self is protected from dire invasions. Of course it also shows that if Yajnas performed with special aims following proper scriptural injunctions will be beneficial manifold times. Yajna is a science wherein a scientific admixture of the 5 elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space) manifests intense divine energy. This energy is conjoined to Dvi Murdhaa, Dvi Naasik, Sapt Hast, Dvi Mukha, Sapta Jihvaa, Uttar Mukh, Koti Dwaadash Moortyaa, Dvi Pancha Shatkalaa Yutam etc. In this statement of deep import it is indicated that the Murdhaa of Yajna fire is both material and spiritual. These areas can be made successful gigantically. The gross and subtle aspect of nature is the nose of Yajnas and one can gain mastery over it. All the 7 glories are the hands of Yajna fire and the Vaam and Dakshin Maarg are its 2 mouths. The 7 worlds are its tongue and all the special qualities of these worlds reside in the moth of Yajna fire. The mouth of Yajna fire harbors the magnetic center of the North Pole. The 52 Kalaas of Yajna are such that Ravan the demon became extremely powerful despite imbibing a very small number of these Kalaas. Hence imagine if all Kalaas manifest and are utilized wholesomely how powerful and terrific mankind can become akin to an inferno. Thus the greatness of Yajnas is limitless. Even a minor application manifests stupendous results. For Gayatri devotees Yajnas are like divine fathers and must be revered from the bottom of ones pure heart.

CHAPTER 5

SUPER MANTRA GAYATRI AND YAJNAS ARE STOREHOUSES OF INFINTE/IMPERISHABLE GLORIES

The symbols of Indian Spiritual Philosophy are said to be Yajnas and the Mother of Vedic Spiritual Sciences viz. Gayatri. They are also called the parents of Indian Spiritual Wisdom and Science. Entire spirituality takes birth when they unite. When a father and mother unite a newborn babe takes birth in this world. This fact too is applicable totally to Gayatri tenets.

What is the meaning of Dwija? It means taking a second birth while yet alive. The thread ceremony or Yajnopaveet gives one a second birth. At that time he/she enters the arena of divine culture. In order that an animal-man gains entry into a divine species’ womb he/she must methodically worship Gayatri as mother and Yajna as fire with sacred devotion. This is true imbibing of divine culture.

Super Mantra of 9 words and 24 alphabets is truly a Guru Mantra or preceptor Mantra. After imbibing it in the truest sense of the term animal man dispels wards off tainted psychic imprints and instead imbibes divine culture. Man possesses 9 characteristics. They transform an animal man into a divine man. Those who imbibe them appropriately are called Dwijas. This matter does not end here. That religious imbibing of great qualities has to be done even in the form of a Yajna. Gayatri Yajna is the ‘marriage’ between Wisdom and Action. In that in our day to day professional, social and other transactions both knowledge and science have to be imbibed. For every devotee of Indian Spirituality minimum one rosary of Gayatri Mantra chanting is a must. One rosary takes around 5 minutes of chanting. In today’s fast paced lifestyle there are many who cannot chant this observing proper injunctions like first bathing, then meditating etc. Hence our scriptures compassionately allow such devotees to mentally chant Mantras for at least 5 minutes in a deeply meditative state of mind without bathing or following other dos and don’ts.

Scriptures ordain devotees to perform 5 Yajnas daily on the similar lines of regular Gayatri Mantra chanting. There are many who cannot daily offer 5 Ahutis of the 5 Yajnas while chanting Mantras akin to Sandhyaa Vandan. Such devotees are advised to offer 5 spoonfuls of food before eating it to Yajna Fire. Those who cannot do this even must offer the first Roti (Indian wheat bread) to a cow looking upon her as ones divine mother (Gomaataa). Growing a pigtail (Shikhaa) on the scalp and wearing the sacred thread (Yajnopaveet) on the chest is akin to installing Gayatri in the temple of our body. In the same way daily feeding a cow is a Brahma Yajna. Hence even such sacred actions are equivalent to offering 5 Ahutis of the Pancha Yajnas. Gayatri’s symbolic worship in the form of a Shikhaa or a Yajnopaveet and Yajna’s symbolic worship in the form of feeding a cow daily is imperative for a devotee of Divine Culture.

If soul uplifting is our aim we are advised to perform high leveled Gayatri Meditation. Along with this on a daily basis one must execute Yajna activities. Gayatri Japa requires mental focus via Mantra Chanting whereas Agnihotra requires Yajna materials like Charu, fuel, Ghee etc. Those who cannot procure all these can perform Agnihotra utilizing only wooden sticks or Samidha to light the Yanja Fire. Its sacred mission is that despite a lack of material means Agnihotra must be performed via physical labor and available basic means. And thus we are exhorted not to ignore or abstain from Agnihotra at any cost.

Material Science deals with forces of matter and that obtained from its atoms after ‘attacking’ them. Without this nature’s forces do not manifest. In the same way in order that soul forces manifest and augment it is imperative that Gayatri and Yajnas be utilized. These 2 Super Powers have been associated with traditions of worship and reading scriptures etc. There may appear differences as far as worship etc methods are concerned due to existence of varied sects and yet Gayatri and Yajna per se are universal in nature. Japa is an action associated with Gayatri. Spiritual energy is the Fire of Yajna. The more fuel is added to both the more intensity manifests and hence Gayatri chanting has many levels. Speeches are 4 in number viz. Vaikhari, Mahyamaa, Paraa and Pashyanti. They correspond to the speeches of man, Super Men, Rishis and Almighty God. With the help of which ever Gayatri practice is executed of a particular level that very stature of electrical energy will manifest. Four types of priests conduct Agnihotra viz. Hotaa, Acharya, Udgaataa and Ardhavyu. The type of Yajna Fire lit depends on the type of their inner personality and the Charu used and thus a particular type of divine endeavor is fulfilled. With respect to hearing Gayatri appears akin to Mantra chanting. Similarly the energy manifesting in Agnihotra makes any object lit in it hot equally. And yet their subtle influences vary as much as the ground and the sky up there.

If only Gayari Meditation is done with greater alertness and oneness of the soul our personality will develop more radiantly to that extent. On the one hand without doubt our personality develops brilliance when it imbibes good qualities, actions, character, ideals and greatness and yet Gayatri Meditation goes further than this. This is because Gayatri can reach the very deep layers of our psyche. Good qualities proliferate only when apt opportunities and situations are available. Lack of these creates man’s downfall and many a times veers towards obstructions. Gayatri Meditation never allows this to take place. It goes into the deeper recesses of our psyche/soul. Thus bad qualities and bad company too does not hamper such a devotee. Great Rishis of yore time and again faced obstacles and attacks of demonic men and yet they remained ever so calm and serene. In order to transform society they did so living amidst vile people but they paid no heed to their bad influence. The reason is one wherein Gayatri Meditation reaches the very core of ones inner being and hence obstructions cannot veer them away from their spiritual goal.

For purification and development of ones personality so as to make it brilliant Gayatri Meditation is a sure shot avenue to do so. It is an easy natural method to increase our blood count via proper dietary methods and yet during emergencies blood donated by a pious donor is injected into the patient’s blood stream. We all know that high stature lifestyle augments purity and radiance in an individual but this can be achieved via special Gayatri Meditation techniques too. There are so many methods of Gayatri Purascharan which generate special potentials in the devotee’s personality. With this potential dire obstructions are overcome and special needs are fulfilled. So one the one hand it is a daily activity but on the other hand during dire times it proves extremely beneficial too.

In texts pertaining to spiritual practices Gayatri is called Brahmasstra or divine weapon. It can both, ward off attacks or create attacks. In the Vishwaamitra Kalpa of Gayatri Tantra Gayatri’s aim of attack is described. In the Lanka Kaanda of Ramayana Meghnaad attacked Lakshmana with this Brahmaastra and the latter was almost killed. As per Vaidya Sushena’s advice Hanumaanji procured the Sanjeevani herb and with its help Lakshmana’s life was restored. In the Indian epic Mahabhaarata too there are many descriptions wherein Brahmaastra has been used. Further methods have been depicted wherein dire attacks which could take ones very life were warded off.

Maharshi Vishwaamitra is the supreme seer (discoverer) of the Gayatri Super Mantra. He had mastered Gayatri Science from its very roots. He had asked Dashratha to send Lord Rama and Lakshmana to protect his Yajnas from demons. For a great time span Maharshi Vishwaamitra had taught the art of Balaa and Atibalaa in his hermitage. For this end Vasishthaji had given him due advice and encouragement. It was the result of preliminary experimentation that in their youth Lord Rama and Lakshmana could overcome vicious demons like Subaahoo, Maaricha, Taadakaa etc. Later there are many episodes where there were mediums that helped Rama as described in Lanka Kaanda of Ramayana. A direct war had taken place between Ram and Raavana but in its subtle aspect Maharshi Vishwaamitra’s divine energy was playing many roles in that terrible battle. Amazing incidences have been described like Hanumaanji uprooting a mountain, his burning Lanka city, entering Ashoka garden, remaining invisible in the eyes of venomous demons, crushing Surasaa’s ego etc. These mysterious acts were not Hanumaanji’s personal feats but were powers attained subtly from Maharshi Vishwaamitrai’s Gayatri Meditation prowess.

Sacred texts give us a symbolic description of a pot being filled with Rishis’ blood from which later Seetaji the one who overcame demons was born. In actuality under the leadership of Maharshi Vishwaamitra other rishis had performed Gayatri Mahapurascharanas in a congregational manner. With this potent collective force the vile activities of terror generating demons was pounded to dust. The energy possessed by demons like Raavana, Ahiraavana, Meghnaad, Kumbhakarana etc was not ordinary at all. By itself it was not possible to overpower them as easily as they were. In this battle weapons could not show any miracles because it was soul force that depicted its glory.

In historical and mythological texts many descriptions are detailed wherein with the help of spiritual powers not only certain people overcame hardships but that with the help of miniscule means and in a short time frame they attained success. In fact there have been times when they helped attain victory in battles and wars that were extremely violent and terrible and thus such vile foes ran away tails between their legs.

Pondicherie’s (India) great sage of austerities Shri Aurobindo Ghosh was an extraordinary devotee of Gayatri during his times. In order that his motherland India escaped the clutches of imperialists he wished to perform a great feat.  He had to combat that government (England) whose land’s sun never set. India’s citizens were facing darkness for virtually 2000 years. Hence Shri Aurobindo Ghosh’s desire was indeed asking for the impossible. For this many intellectuals of India had tried their hand and yet there was no light at the end of the dark tunnel. Any method utilized bred failure only. At that time the great sage Shri Aurobindo Ghosh performed gigantic austerities keeping a vow of silence (Mauna). Its results were stupendous for all to see. In those 20 years such super great souls took birth in India which awakened the layman’s psyche and forced the imperialists to rethink its plan of permanently ruling over India. In world history one has witnessed the birth of great men/women time and again who were social reformers, political leaders, scientists etc but nowhere have so many been born together as seen during India’s freedom struggle. Just as in summer many violent cyclones erupt in the same way results of Yogi Aurobindo were seen when he performed Mauna austerities. None had before that even dreamt that one day the British imperialists will run away tail between legs. And yet this seemingly impossible task did become possible at the appropriate hour. Congress regained India’s independence. This can be said to be a great wonder of the world. Those who lived in the vicinity of Yogi Aurobindo know fully well that under his divine guidance Divine Mother and other great devotee’s performed intense Gayatri Meditation practices.

Within a well planned divine format Maharshi Ramana, Yogi Ramkrishna Paramhansa, Samarth Ramdas and many other great saintly personages had carried out high stature Gayatri Meditation practices. In its gross aspect many Yuga Rishis inspired Indian citizens to chant Super Mantra Gayatri. So many Munis and great thinkers call Gayatri not merely Mother of the Vedas but also Mother of the World, Mother of Divinity, Tarantaarini, Kamadhenu or wish fulfilling cow, nectar, touchstone, wish fulfilling tree etc. There are many methods of spiritual practices pertaining to Gayatri’s Yoga aspect that is divinity based and Tantra aspect which is demonic based. Hence Gayatri is called the Mother of Indian Culture. Over here it is wise to note Yajna is inseparably conjoined to Gayatri spiritual endeavor.

Gayatri is called a Shabda Baana or Word of Arrow. It is a divine weapon and its usage and results are extraordinary. In the same way within the realm of Agnihotra acts of lighting the give same results as far as sacred fire burning is concerned. Its form and touch harbor no special differences. And yet if analyzed minutely it becomes clear that subtly the difference is definitely enormous. The fire of hunger is a quality whereas fir of forest etc that convert into Yajna Fire have many categories. In its visible form Yajna Fire is of 3 type viz. Aahavaneeya, Dakshinaagni and Gaahrpatya. But within the spiritual realm they number 5 in all. In the Yama-Nachiketa dialogue of the Kathopanishad these 5 have been elucidated. There are thus 5 types of fire or Panchaagni. The 5 Pranaalis too are fire’s form. 5 Demigods too are fire manifest. In reality they are Divine Energy streams of the 5 Pranas or Vital Forces. In order to light them, fire or other fuel are not required. In the Bhagwad Geeta with reference to this God says that Yogis offer their Vital Force to the cosmic Prana which is called spiritual Havan.

Kundalini Super Power is called the Fire of Vital Force. Its ordinary heat energy is called life force. But when its 6 ‘eddies’ in the form of 6 Chakras start moving speedily it takes the form of Ridhi-Sidhis. The intensity of this divine inferno is of various types. It is most certainly unlike the fire used in cooking or the heat experienced when the body gets high fever. The same holds true for Gayatri’s word based sensitivity. It cannot be found in men, birds, beasts, worms, musical instruments etc. It in fact emerges from a conscious sound vibration flow that is different from material objects and it merges into consciousness itself.

This is an extraordinary word flow of Gayatri. It is described in the form of Vital Force Fire. Those who deeply realize/experience this Supreme Light Gayatri and Supreme Energy Yajna Fire do not require anymore wisdom or knowledge. In order that not one human being be denied it every wise person should be asked to himself/herself perform Yajna and Gayatri chanting and encourage other laymen to follow suit. So what if it is in the form of an ordinary symbolic worship method.

Importance of Divine Tradition is dependent on that Spiritual Science which is the confluence of Gayatri and Yajna. The more one marches ahead on this sacred path the more one shall ooze with Divine Powers. In order that none lack this special grandeur and human glory scriptural seers ordain us to include Gayatri and Yajna in our day to day activities.

CHAPTER 6

THE SPIRITUAL SCIENCE OF GAYATRI AND YAJNA

Soul purification is the supreme goal man should aspire for. On this basis personality development takes place wherein ones qualities, actions and inner nature become brilliant, full of integrity and skillful. It is the mental state that gives birth to external circumstances. To a minor extent obstacles or lack of them do influence external situations and yet its fount or root lies within i.e. in our psyche. Man is the author of his fate and on his/her own volition walks on the path of downfall or progress. Thus opportunities of downfall or advancement appear in man’s life. Hence prosperity or stress/hardships too have their basis in it.

Amongst modes of self/soul purification meditation has its own prime spot. It straightaway directly influences our inner sentimental/sensitive arenas. As per ones leanings it influences the direction of ones sentiments, thoughts and imaginations. This results as actions in the world. This is hence the focal point of downfall or progress as may be the case. It can be influenced via spiritual practices and meditation. Positive or negative spiritual practices either makes us advanced or demeans us in life in an all round manner.

Amongst theistic communities there exists their kind of devotional and other methods. Traditionalists imbibe them when in contact with that particular type of atmosphere and yet deep thinkers face a problem wherein they wonder which one of the many methods are best suited for them. In order to overcome this dilemma they are required to utilize logic, proof and sound arguments and then decide for or against those precepts. Thus their question as to which one to adhere to, will be answered.

On its own the chief basis of devotion is faith. Faith helps conjoin special qualities and glories to ones soul arena. Faithless worship, rites, prayer etc is merely a superficial play. Out of superficial curiosity many people start spiritual endeavors but unfortunately they do not give any concrete results and in fact make them more atheistic in nature. Over here no error should be searched for in the mode of spiritual practices and instead find out whether faith exists or not? A devotee of true faith akin to Ramkrishna Paramhansa, saint Meerabai, Eklavya etc actually feel their icon’s image as oozing with Divine Energy and experiences it to be ‘alive and kicking’. As against this a man devoid of faith will actually mock images of God and his beloved saints. For sculptors who make idols the latter are meant just for selling purposes but for a devotee of faith I is a means to augment divine sentiments in the soul. Hence over here it is the power of faith and trust that is at work predominantly. In its absence idol worship is merely a superficial action. Despite this since man is a rational being he must deeply search for special qualities in various worship methods and must choose that which influences his psyche more intensely in a positive manner. Know for sure there is nothing amazing about this.

Super Mantra Gayatri exudes wondrous characteristics. Its alphabets are interwoven in such a manner that those who chant it (Japa) find their inner potential center manifesting Divine Light/Wisdom. This principle can be truly understood by making it undergo tests and trials. If on an experimental basis any person performs Gayatri Meditation he/she will truly realize that not even an iota of their time and labor have gone waste. In fact their experience will tell them that their inner brilliance manifests and that their sacred emotions are blooming forth fragrantly. The intellect now veers strongly towards ethics and integrity. Ones activities give a strong fragrance of idealism and sacredness. Further actions become more skillfully radiant. This fact can be witnessed via self introspection and scientific analysis. Those who harbor no faith in the Science of Spiritual Practices too can take aid of such analysis by devoting some time to it. A lot of time and labor is taken up in scientific research studies and laboratory experiments. If anyone so wishes he/she can take recourse to such studies of spirituality too. A massive majority have experienced positive feedback in this realm.

Hence what can one say if spiritual practices are conjoined to deep faith? It is like fragrance added to the already very precious ore of gold. The tree of spiritual practices grows gigantically if watered with the water of true faith and starts giving luscious fruits. Of course people of blind faith/belief who conduct such experimentation mentioned above will not fail totally. This is because their faith, spirituality and religiosity will move ahead albeit at a slower pace. From the standpoint of sound vibration based spiritual practices Gayatri’s Vaachak (chanting loudly), Upaanshu (whispering) and Maansika (mental) Japa too have their importance. Because of them the nervous and psychic system gets influenced in such a manner that unwanted elements are warded off and apt ones augment in a big way.

From the meaning standpoint Gayatri means worship of a divine intellect that gives us wisdom both materially and spiritually. If man realizes that it is important to augment this principle naturally he/she will yearn to transform his/her thought process sacredly and induce the intellect to be just and discerning. We should not allow our desires and yearnings to run helter-skelter and instead focus them on following ideals in our day to day living. If our intellect is conjoined to ethics and farsightedness we will become more cultured and refined deeply. Such individuals become great and execute great acts in the world for all to see. Gayatri Mantra directs us to walk in this extremely beneficial direction. If anybody does this his/her material and spiritual prosperity is a foregone conclusion.

Gayatri Mantra lays emphasis on ‘thy’ and never ‘I’. The word ‘Naha’ in this Mantra means ‘all of us’. Whatever is thought of, desired or acted upon should be not for selfish gains but bang opposite to it i.e. cosmic well being. Thus the basis of cosmic welfare and peace/brotherhood is laid down firmly. This truly is worship and reverence for world humanity and cosmic consciousness called God by the layman. Over here it is important to renounce personal selfish benefits and gains.

When one deeply reflects upon the meaning of the 24 alphabets of Gayatri elucidated by great seers it becomes crystal clear that the principles of true religiosity and social management have been detailed akin to the ocean being captured in a pot. It can be called the most important gist of the precepts put forth by all world religions without exception. On this basis Super Mantra Gayatri can be called a tiny but full of deep import scripture which describes human righteous duties in its truest sense. It can also be called a high leveled state of human faith in divinity.

India has many religious sects but none of them ignore or overlook Gayatri. In some cases it may be that Gayatri is not utilized but it is never ignored whole and sole. Under such circumstances keeping in mind Gayatri devotion’s descriptions and inspirations if we call it a universal mode of spiritual practice know for sure it is not an overstatement.

Within the realm of Gayatri super Science Almighty God has taken a female’s form. It is called Vedmaataa, Vishwamaataa and Devmaataa too. Their idols are given a woman’s form. From this it is proved that Indian Culture gives a lot of importance to womanhood and bestows greatness on it. Women are revered, their glory is accepted by one and all and that it is the fair gender that will take the world to great peaks of glory in the 21^st century. If this fact the world over is given a social application and great efforts are made for uplifting of women know for sure that Divine Era will manifest on this very Earth of ours. Satyuga or the Golden era will be ours for keeps.

The other leg of Gayatri is Yajna. Both together are called our mother and father respectively. The word Yajna connotes good merits, spiritual progress and performing feats for world welfare. The icon of this goal can be Agnihotra too and yet it is not limited to this end. Its meaning includes those elements too which sanctify and develop our personality. Very briefly Yajna means a meritorious deed.

Gayatri is said to be a symbol of sacred wisdom and Yajna that of sacred deeds. In practice Gayatri can be chanted (Japa) and Yajna can be performed via Agnihotra. And yet these 2 energy manifesting inspirations cannot be limited to this only. Those who cannot perform these rituals cannot be called opponents of Gayatri and Yajna. Further it can so happen that those who regularly do Japa and Agnihotra do so mechanically and thus are left high and dry as far as attaining divine grace and inspiration is concerned. We must always remember that along with our pious actions our sacred sentiments too should be inseparably conjoined. Actions can be called pious only if the thinking and emotions behind them too are of that high stature. Actions without wholesome sentiments are mere mechanical robot like physical actions. As a result the bodily parts move and certain materials change places. Hence true all round benefits do not accrue in such erroneous cases. So it is clear that the Spiritual Philosophy of Gayatri and Yajna must be reflected upon deeply and then be imbibed in ones thinking and external day to day activities.

Scriptural seers have spoken a great deal regarding Gayatri’s deep import and divine value. Many proclamations of theirs give due respect to Yajna’s philosophy and its sacred science. If the truth behind this precept is to be known not only its ritual but spiritual philosophy too is required to be deeply imbibed within and without. Not only should it be understood but that by translating it into ones daily living the results should be for all to see. In ancient times such experimentation and applications took place for a great time span. One benefited from others experiences and such mutual inspiration created such an atmosphere which was called Satyuga or Golden Era of those times. In this manner even today we can manifest divinity in world beings and herald the Advent of Heaven on Earth in the 21^st century. The chariot of Indian Culture, marched ahead on 2 wheels. Hence if we say that they represented Gayatri and Yajna, know for sure it is certainly not an overstatement. Thus today too like ancient times those very benefits can accrue if only those applications are first imbibed individually so as to spread in the entire world without exception. The foundations of all round advancement are represented by sacred wisdom and meritorious deeds leading to world well being.

CHAPTER 7

THE SUPER ENERGY FOUNTS OF WISDOM AND SCIENCE: GAYATRI AND YAJNAS

The preliminary task in order to awaken India’s (and later the world’s) latent soul is to re-establish wisdom and science. An individual or the country or the world can progress wholesomely only if wisdom and science are imbibed fully. When either of the two decline ones downfall is imminent. Wisdom means knowledge, intellect, discernment, rationality, good will, generosity and love for justice. Vijnana or subtle science means strength, capability, power of means, prosperity, quick success and balance both in the material and spiritual sense. Only then can tru advancement be achieved. In ancient times our motherland India was prosperous in both ways. Right from laymen to Kings and Rishis wisdom and science were abundant in all directions. Even royal princes were known to stay at Rishis’ hermitages/Ashramas to attain wisdom and the mysteries of both gross and subtle sciences. In ancient Indian history and mythology one finds mind boggling descriptions of divine weapons, divine vehicles and divine wealth/potentials. Rishis immersed themselves in spiritual pursuits for soul progress and yet they were masters of the Ashta Sidhi and Nava Nidhi (Divine Powers). In ancient times India in order to become wise worshipped divine wisdom and also worshipped material/spiritual sciences so as to become prosperous and wealthy. On the one hand Yogis o yore merged into God via devotional practices and on the other hand performed intense austerities so as to attain divine powers and potentials. It is beyond doubt that sacred sentiments help attain Almighty God and spiritual practices give us both material and spiritual prowess.

Today’s knowledge depends on direct visibility, experiences and scientific machinery/technology. Via technology scientist are attaining material knowledge and powers/energies. This methodology is very expensive, requires tough labor, miniscule and unsteady. Today although a great deal of material knowledge has been attained thanks to great scholars, professors and researchers yet greatness of our psyche, generous character and self sacrifice for cosmic welfare eludes us totally. Today’s so called wisdom has made mankind more selfish, unruly, spendthrift and vainly superficial/hypocritical. For sure scientifically we are progressing by leaps and bounds but when there is success a host of downfalls also come our way unasked. Chemical fertilizers are used to improve soil fertility and thus augment harvest yields but the side effects of such fertilizers are many and detrimental for human health. Factories and mills produce large quantities of materials (cloth, food items etc) but they enhance both air and noise pollution. Thus it is so dangerous for humans to dwell nearby such places. Scientists unanimously opine that within the next 100 years coal, oil, petrol and other mineral ores will virtually become naught and hence without fuel today’s machinery and other technology will prove to be defunct and useless. As days go by technology used to generate electricity too will wither away and if more atomic energy is generated air pollution will augment manifold times.

In ancient times the basis of knowledge and science were different. Today just as every object is searched for in this inert world and atoms in the same way in ancient times every thing including objects, forces, energy etc was searched for in the spiritual arena. Today the foundation is materialism whereas in ancient times it was spiritual. This is a well known principle of modern science wherein all visible objects are gross in nature. In comparison to these the same materials in its subtle invisible form are moving in subtle space that measure infinite more times than its gross version. Take for example water. If you take into account 100 ton water on earth’s surface in comparison millions of tons in its invisible subtle form is moving in the atmosphere. Our thought and mental resolve too is an ‘object’. In this object a certain type of magnetic pull can manifest and with its aid we can attract required atoms of special materials of the subtle world towards ourselves. Latching on to this basic principle of subtle sciences great Rishis of yore saw that when the atoms of all objects of the world are present in our bodily and mental arena atoms of great utility value must be augmented and by attracting the same species of innumerable atoms towards oneself from the atmosphere why not fulfill the goal of attaining desired materials? These Rishis thus conducted research on the basis of this science and via specific spiritual practices awakened great and minor energies that lie latent in the human body and mind. As a result their ability to attract things became so potent that just as a crane catches fish from the depths of the ocean with the help of its long neck so too they ‘caught’ various objects, potentials and energies of space.

Our ancient research on wisdom and science had their roots in Gayatri and Yajna because the latter are father and mother of Spiritual Sciences. Gayatri represents wisdom and Yajna represents science. The 24 letters of Super Mantra Gayatri encompasses teachings for uplifting of world humanity to peaks of glory. Apart from this these interwoven letters harbor mysterious sciences and their substratum. If these 24 letters are utilized as per scriptural injunctions latent extraordinary powers of the mind start awakening at the appropriate hour. Spiritual qualities too start speedily augmenting and the intellect becomes razor sharp and brilliant. Further such farsightedness is attained which helps solve innumerous life’s problems with relative ease.

The Science of Yajnas is verily important. The word power of Vedic Mantra chanting is offered to fire in Kundas (pyre) lit with special wood (Samidhaa), Havi/Charu (materials like grains etc). Thus the fire becomes extremely potent and certain types of waves, vibrations and radiations are emitted by it. These energy waves akin to radars can be sent to any nook and corner of the world. Just about any person can imbibe them and for certain special aims it can be made to manifest in the very deep recesses of Mother Nature. In order that rains, grains, milk, good health, our very life force etc augment on our planet Earth Yajnas can be the best mediums for its success. Energy emitted by Yajnas positive transform our emotions, thought process and external circumstances too. Thus there are innumerable benefits which confirm or premise that Yajnas ought to be performed in every nook and corner of the world albeit in a scientific manner. In Hindu Religion every festival, ritual, worship, rite, vow, Sanskar, devotional practice etc remains unfulfilled without a Yajna. A Hindu child is born in a delivery room which has an eternal flame lamp lit. Later when death approaches this fire helps light the funeral pyre for cremation of the dead body (Antyeshti Kriya). Yajnas were given immense importance by great Rishis of yore simply because not only were they means to attain material forces/powers but that by making man’s body and psyche sacred, desireless and thought free he/she attained spiritual bliss and peace on an eternal basis.

If in today’s times cultural transformation in an advanced manner is to take place we will have to take recourse to both wisdom and science. The seed Mantra of Indian Culture is Super Mantra Gayatri. On the basis of its power and sacred precepts our entire cast is molded. A true Hindu’s ideal is to exist radiantly like the brilliant fire. Our biological parents without doubt give us bodily wealth, educational resources, a roof over our head, love and affection. Similarly if we reinstate Mother Gayatri and Yajna Father in the very core of our psyche and worship them with devotion we can attain even more precious and highly beneficial means.

By converting a few materials of ours into a sacred gaseous state we are sort of performing charity because without any differences of ‘I’, ‘mine’, caste, religion, friend, foe etc everyone inhales it (unknowingly) so as to attain stupendous health, material and spiritual benefits. Thus it is akin to Brahmabhoja or Divine Banquet and thus a Yajna’s expenses are miniscule when compared to the all pervasive gigantic benefits that accrue to one and all.

Yajnas are symbols of congregationalism or collectivity. Other modes of spiritual practices can be executed individually but Yajnas are divine programs where many people participate together in an atmosphere of camaraderie. Holi festival’s and other Yajnas are always gigantic and congregational. Yajnas enhance sacred sentiments of unity, cooperation, commitment etc.

Every sacred task, auspicious occasion and festival is said to be complete only if at the end of it a Yajna is performed. Yajna is Indian Culture’s father. Yajna is India’s ancient and most revered Vedic mode of worship. In order that the goal of religious oneness and that of sentiments too be attained it would be a multi faceted farsighted effort to conduct such Yajnas in a large scale congregational manner.

Gayatri is a Goddess of sacred intellect and Yajna is the God of sacred actions. The divine couple of Mother Gayatri and Yajna Father will prove successful and powerful from all standpoints if the goal is gigantic augmenting of sacred sentiments and wholesome world welfare activities. The method of performing Gayatri Yajnas is very simple, well accepted and attractive too. In order that the vile intellect of world humanity is sanctified, the energy and power of Goddess Super Mantra Gayatri is not only mind boggling but one without a second too.

In order that a congregation of people of cities, districts and villagers gather together gigantic Yajnas should be planned at many places so that everyone benefits both materially and spiritually. Rest assured if the method is erroneous they will prove not only to be costly but that precious time and labor will go down the drain so to speak. If on the other hand Yajnas are performed methodically as per Vedic injunctions not only are the expenses meager but that they are magnetic and highly beneficial for all without exception. In every Indian ritual, religious vow, sacred ceremonies and festivals Yajnas predominate. On understanding its mode and goal virtually all requirements of religious programs/rites stand fulfilled.

Independent Yajnas can be executed even for world well being/peace, awakening world human psyche and sanctification of the atmosphere. In fact this goal predominates when Yajnas are performed during festivals and auspicious occasions. Every Indian devotee and those dwelling the world over must become well versed with the concept and methodology of Yajnas.

Following are some important quotes and verses of various scriptures regarding Yajnas:

“For such auspicious tasks very sacred areas are required because only when the purest unites with the purest do sacred fruits manifest”

……………………….LORD MANU

“India is the purest of pure and hence Yajnas are ordained to be carried out in this sacred land”.

……………………MANU SMRITI (22/23)