‘BHAKTI’ BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER VOL 04-2015 … · 3- Bhakti Marga SA Bi-annual Newsletter Vol...

1- Bhakti Marga SA Bi-annual Newsletter Vol 04-2015

BHAKTI MARGA SA:BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER VOL 04-2015 ‘BHAKTI’

“Ushering in a new age of love and spiritual growth, returning to light from darkness, a journey from our minds to our hearts, Bhakti Marga celebrates its 10th anniversary. Bhakti Marga will always stand for the unity of

religions, shining through as a lotus amidst the world’s darkness, bringing in a new dawn and the end of Kali Yuga. And Sri Swami Vishwananda will be ever there to hold our hands on this journey but the first step must

come from our side. Let us join hands as one renewed family and usher in this new age of Love together as one, under the eternal guidance of our beloved Satguru, Sri Swami Vishwananda.”

BHAKTI MARGA CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY

17/02/2015 - SHIVARATRI - KZN - REFLECTIONS BY SALLY RABICHANDThe Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple celebrated Maha Shivaratri on the 17th February 2015, with the Grace of Swami Vishwachakradharananda. The festival is principally celebrated by offerings of Bael leaves to Lord Shiva where an all day fasting and an all night vigil is observed by devotees. Throughout the day, devotees also chant the sacred mantra of Lord Shiva, “Om Namaha Shivaya”, and some also get into deep meditation. Four Jamums were observed with the first commencing at 6:00pm and thereafter, after every 3 hour intervals, ie. at 9:00pm, 12:00 pm and 3:00 am the following morning. For every Jamum, bael leaves were placed onto the Lingam by devotees and the Lingam was washed with the ingredients and mantras were recited. Every ritual performed was absolutely vibrant, and one could actually feel the entire procession happening within oneself. The energy and love continuously flowed and Shiva and Parvati (Shakti) danced with so much of love and joy to divine ecstasy. The night was filled with unconditional love and every devotee could feel the uncontrollable energy and love that was radiated. Melodious bhajans were sung the entire night giving praise to Lord Shiva and Parvati and other deities as well. Swami and other devotees gave a discourse on the significance and importance of celebrating Shivaratri. Other Bhajan Groups from Stanger also rendered satsangs at the Temple. The night's rituals culminated to the Yagna at 06:00am the following morning, which was officiated by Swami. All devotees including the Youth, were still very fresh and energetic and all participated in the Yajna and received the Blessings of Lord Shiva. A most beautiful night, with so much of love, peace and happiness and most of all the experience and blessings received throughout the night was appreciated by every devotee. Thank you God Bless.

17/02/2015 - SHIVARATRI - JHB - REFLECTIONS BY MIRELLE LEVITANWe started at 5.30 pm with a guru puja and kailash puja and then started the first of the four abhishekum sessions. We were very blessed to have Swami Vishwaparanthapananda guiding and sharing the essence of Shivaratri with us. In a very similar style to Guruji, Swami Vishwaparanthapananda explains very deep complex spiritual ideas in extremely funny and digestible ways. He mentioned how lucky we are to be in a temple where we have a murti of Shiva and a murti of Narasimha together side by side. Usually this would be something that could be frowned upon, but this is another beautiful example of how Guruji is continuously breaking down separation in our minds till we eventually see love and perfect oneness in everything and everyone. He explained how Shiva was actually the highest example of a perfect devotee of Lord Vishnu. Shiva in his perfected state continuously chanted the name Ram. He did this even before Lord Ram was born. When Ram was born, Shiva decided to manifest himself as a servant of Lord Ram so he could constantly look upon Him, meditate on Him, serve and love Him and was called Hanuman or Ramadhuta which is another name for Lord Shiva. Shivaratri is an occasion where we are reminded how Shiva destroys our ego and pride and leads us to a place of humility and love.

The main message from Swami's discourse was to demonstrate a principle from the teachings of Sadguru Bijoy Krishna Goswamis. He articulated that there are 2 things in a human life. One, being Purpose and another Aim. All inanimate and animate objects like rocks, trees or animals and humans have a purpose. Our dharma is to fulfil our very individual and specific purpose. Lord Shiva gives us the perfect soil and environment to fulfil our purpose. Yet we are blessed to take a human birth for it is only then that a human can have an Aim in life as well. Like Shiva, when our Aim is fixed on Guru or God it means complete surrender, when our aim is fixed there is no space for worry, doubt or fear. It is in this choice that we can choose our Aim and fix it. This then automatically allows our Guru to become our actions, thoughts and words. This leads to faith and trust in Guru/ God and the process of our lives.Swami indicated that whenever we have worry or fear in our lives or whenever we question ourselves or others actions (whenever we question or fight reality) this demonstrates that our Aim is not fixed. When it is - we have no questions and whether we are bramacharis, lawyers, stay at home moms or dads, an accountant or teacher if we fulfil our purpose with our hearts fixed on our Aim, suddenly life becomes enjoyable and easy. There was a new Jal bramachari initiation which was a major blessing on such an auspicious day. A devotee was initiated by Swami Vishwaparanthapananda. It was a surprise initiation as she was only in Johannesburg for 5 days from Belgium- perfect timing! Jai Guru Dev! The decorations were magnificent and the devotees of Swami Vishwananda really put their whole hearts into decorating and dressing our Shiva Lingam with magnificent attire, garlands and vibhuti. An arch made of flowers was created and with each session of abhishekam the devotees got a chance to express their own individual idea of how to decorate Lord Shiva with their own specific style. The festival ended at 6:30am with Satsang and Kirtan all night- it was really enjoyed by all. Thank you to all those that participated and made it a beautiful celebration of The Divine. May the Lord bless us all by lovingly guiding us to fix our aim only on Him. OM Namah Shivaya! “


20-22/02/2015 - SWAMI VISHWACHAKRADHARANANDA PE TOUR - REFLECTIONS BY YASTEEL KUSEEAL




Jai Guru Dev! In February 2015 we were fortunate to have two Swamis visit Port Elizabeth, namely Swami Vishwachakradharananda and Swami Vishwaparanthapananda. We planned a weekend full of activities in PE. On the evening of 20th February, the first visit was to the Sathie Sanmarka Sungum, in Malabar where both our Swamis addressed the devotees of the temple followed by an interesting question and answer session. I watched on in amazement how our Swamis discussed topics that are so simple and relative to daily life and had the attention of all devotees both young and mature. Swami Vishwachakradharananda led everyone into a harmonious bhajan and concluded with both Swamis giving blessings to all. The Saturday began with early morning preparations for the Seva Program at an orphanage. We were blessed to have many hands help with the preparations for the Seva at the Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre. We were greeted by over 100 kids of various ages and their Day Mothers at the centre and had a wonderful time interacting with the children. Everyone lovingly assisted and worked together in harmony to make this a special day for the kids of the home. That afternoon Swami Vishwachakradharananda performed a Yagna in Walmer Heights. Kriyananda who accompanied Swami on this trip assisted in preparations for the Yagna with so much devotion and love. We were fortunate to be blessed with good weather on this day and were able to hold the Yagna outdoors. We began by conducting Abishekum on the Padukas of Swami Vishwananda. The energy was overwhelming and those that attended the Yagna were truly fascinated as it was a first time experience for some. Later that evening Om Healing took place in Walmer Heights. Many who attended had experienced Om Healing for the first time and some had wonderful experiences. Everyone thereafter received blessings from both Swamis and enjoyed some refreshments and one on one time with them. On the Sunday Swami Vishwaparanthapananda gave a discourse in Walmer Heights where he spent time edifying our Satguru, Sri Swami Vishwananda. He later on that week rendered a Simply Meditation course while in PE. Late that Sunday evening we bid a sad farewell to Swami Vishwachakradharananda and Kriyananda as they departed to Durban. Later on that week we also bid farewell to Swami Vishwaparanthapananda as he departed to India to join our Guruji, Swami Vishwananda. It was so amazing having spent time with both our Swamis as we found their visit to be a spiritually uplifting experience. Much Love to our Swamis and Guruji always and thank you for being a part of our lives.

07-08/02/2015 - GURU GITA RETREAT PARYS - REFLECTIONS BY MIRELLE LEVITAN

On Friday the 6th of February 2015 Bhakti Marga South Africa kicked off with a phenomenal Guru Gita weekend retreat with Swami Vishwachakradharananda. It was such a treat to travel only one hour outside of Johannesburg and find oneself in the magnificent natural surroundings of Parys far away from the hustle and bustle of the city with a chance to reflect on our Divine Guru Sri Swami Vishwananda.


On Friday night, we were there to prepare early for Swami Vishwachakradharananda's arrival, only to be inconvenienced suddenly with an electrical blackout. We resigned ourselves to the thought of a romantic dinner by candlelight and quite a lot of bumping into each other as it was a new space and pitch black outside. As Swami's car pulled up, we all laughed about the darkness especially with him driving on an off beaten sand road to reach the lodge. We greeted Swami Vishwachakradharananda with a garland and we were all beyond excitement to see him. As soon as he put one foot into the entrance of the lodge - Lo and Behold, the electricity returned again! As we went from darkness into light - we knew Swami Vishwananda was with us and our Guru was working his magic. On Saturday morning we started our day with a hearty breakfast followed by the Guru Puja. It was so lovely to bond with our Bhakti Marga family. There were 23 of us who attended ages ranging from nearly 1 year's old to too old to mention. Swami Vishwachakradharananda exuded the love of our Guru and the same beautiful message and grace flowed from him. In the same style he delivered every shloka with precision as well as his amazing sense of humour. We laughed endlessly the whole weekend. From stories of bats in our rooms and crocodiles in the river wanting to eat us, to stories of Swami Vishwananda and stories of ourselves. It was really an uplifting weekend. We had a chance to relax in our beautiful surroundings, to meditate, swim and chat. It was fantastic getting to know each other better. A spontaneous Kirtan session erupted on the second night with Vijan on the guitar. The electricity failed again (typical South African style) and we sung under the stars with Vijan on the drums and Swami on the harmonium - no lack of electricity could keep our spirits in the dark! As we received the blessings of hearing The Guru Gita we had double blessings the following day as a new Jal bramachari was initiated. Swami showered us all with blessings and gave us each a signed copy of the Guru Gita. It was a weekend filled with love, laughter and a chance for us to realize how we are family and how blessed we are that Guruji brought us all together. It ended with some tears and many hugs and with great memories. Our beloved Swami drove off with his cool sunglasses, huge smile and car filled with his Devotees from KZN. It was a weekend to remember and the first of many Johannesburg retreats have begun.




28/04/2015 - DARSHAN IN LENASIA SOUTH - JHB - REFLECTIONS BY BHAVIN MADHAVJIA night that began with the crisp embrace of the winter breeze, ended with an eruption of the warmth from the heart. The chill of the night was the only reality check for the surreal experience of receiving Guruji's Darshan.

The gathered crowds and devotees exuberance was heightened at the South African release of the Sri Guru Gita book and DVD set. We were also blessed to witness Guruji perform Abhishekum on the Lord Muruga. We

watched His elegant grace in awe as Lord Muruga was pampered by His love. This was the witnessing of a love like no other, none other than that of the purist form of love being divine love. We were heart-fully reminded by Swamini Vishwamohini and Swami Vishwachakradharananda to keep our mind open and use this opportunity to

immerse ourselves in the divine by chanting his name. With this, the chorus to the kirtans burst into life and filled the temple three times fold. We were more alive than ever. Happily singing at the heights of our lung capacity we

awaited Guruji to be seated. Little to be known there was a surprise story of the beloved friendship between Krishna and Suddhama told by Guruji after he sang a few bhajans. Every being in the temple, including the mice at Ganesha's feet and everywhere else sat in utter silence. Reaching out to every syllable our ears could grasp,

we listened intently to the story of devotion and love which was a treat from the divine himself. If any soul in the space didn't know it already, it was in this moment, it was clearly defined, that you have been blessed, blessed to be alive and present, blessed to be a witness, blessed to receive the Darshan and blessed to be open to give and

share the love. It was in this moment that the hearts of mankind be opened and be lived in true love. Without fear and with the only glory to the divine.

29/04-02/05/2015 - KZN - SWAMI VISHWANANDA’S VISIT - REFLECTIONS BY SIVESHNEE VARDAN

Guruji's visit to South Africa was much anticipated. Finally the 29th of April 2015 arrived and devotees were there to meet meet Guruji at the King Shaka International airport. This was my second time meeting Guruji, but each time you see him, it's like you are seeing him for the first time. I had butterflies in my tummy. Along with some other devotees from Bhakti Marga, we were running late, and were we not sure whether we would be in time to see him at the airport. But a Guru always knows and he has so much love and humility, he waited. This was so overwhelming for me. Guruji waited for all those that were going to meet him at the airport. He greeted everyone with his beautiful smile and spent some time chatting to the devotees. His warmth, his radiance and his love just shines through.Guruji and his devotees set off to the Shanta Narasimha Temple in Stanger where other devotees awaited Guruji's arrival.

Later that day Guruji performed abishekum on his beloved Ghiridhari who radiated love himself and we were allowed to take Darshan from Ghiridhari. The day ended with a beautiful satsang with Guruji and Bhaktimarga KZN. Guruji sang with such devotion it was like music notes dancing around everyone's hearts. During the satsang Guruji also performed a question and answer session. It's amazing how devotees that asked questions were questions that we sometimes ask ourselves on a daily basis. Guruji answered with such profoundness. He was also quite funny and everyone present shared his laughter and wisdom. Guruji is like that, he is like the Divine himself. He forgets that he is the Divine so that he can be close to humankind. This is the humility and love he has for everybody.



The next day started with a Seva project at Lee Primary School with Swami Vishwachakradharananda. Bhakti Marga sponsored a Jojo tank and the children were treated to a meal. So many smiles and best of all full tummies. Swami himself served the children lunch with love and devotion. Who knew that the heart could expand more and more each time, and that by expanding it could open up to more love. Serving others does this.During the next two days Guruji offered Darshan at the Stanger Town Hall in Durban. Guruji arrived at the Darshan radiant as ever. He sang and performed a 1 minute meditation for Mother Earth. Then it was time for the actual Darshan. The sick and elderly took Darshan first. Watching everyone receive Darshan from Guruji is so amazing. Guruji is so patient, and he gives each and every individual Darshan with so much Bhakti. Even when devotees asked questions he answered with patience and humility. This goes on for hours and Guruji only leaves after each person receives Darshan from him. Even the very last person who receives Darshan gets the Darshan with the same love and devotion as the first. His words from the question and answer session the day before now ring in my head, Guruji says “love what you are doing and do everything with love”.


He radiates so much love that everyone that attended the Darshan also started to feel and radiate this love. Guruji touches so many hearts and this is his mission, to open the hearts of man to this divine love.The following day was Narasimha Chaturthi. Guruji performed the abishekum for Lord Narasimha while Bhakti Marga KZN performed a satsang. The energies around Guruji and Lord Narasimha were amazing. Unveiling the deity after Guruji had performed abishekum, opened our heart even further. Lord Narasimha looked so radiant and beautiful. After receiving Darshan from Lord Narasimha, it was almost time for Guruji to bid farewell to all those in KZN. Even though Guruji was not leaving South Africa just yet, the heart begins to feel some emptiness. I have not seen so much love and I never knew there could be so much love and Guruji just kept exuding more and more love. Till Guruji's next visit to KZN ….

02/05/2015 - NARASHIMHA CHATURTHI JHB REFLECTIONS BY HARSHIK GOPAL

Narashimha Chaturthi marked a historic day at the Maha Jwala Narashimha Temple in Johannesburg. Our beloved Guruji Sri Swami Vishwananda graced all with His presence for this auspicious occasion which celebrates the Lord's Love for His devotee. What an amazing honour it was to have Guruji with us!

The story of Bhakta Prahlad and his demon father Hiranyakashipu symbolises the triumph of Love in breaking down the ego within ourselves. Bhagavata Purāna describes that in his previous avatar as Varāha, Lord Vishnu killed the demon Hiranayaksa. The younger brother of Hirnayaksa, Hiranyakashipu wanted revenge on Vishnu and his followers. He undertook many years of austere penance to take revenge on Vishnu. Brahma thus offers the demon a boon and Hiranyakashipu asks for immortality. Brahma tells him this is not possible, but that he could bind the death of Hiranyakashipu with conditions which Hiranyakashipu believed would make him impossible to kill.

Hiranyakashipu's son was born a great devotee of Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu was furious at the devotion of his son to Vishnu, as Vishnu had killed his brother. He tried persuading him to follow the demon ways but was unsuccessful. Finally, he decided to kill his son but each time he attempted to kill the boy, Prahlāda is protected by Vishnu's mystical power. When asked, Prahlāda refuses to acknowledge his father as the supreme lord of the universe and claims that Vishnu is all-pervading and omnipresent.




Hiranyakashipu points to a nearby pillar and asks if 'his Vishnu' is in it. Prahlāda then answers, He was, He is and He will be. Hiranyakashipu, unable to control his anger, smashes the pillar with his mace, and following a tumultuous sound, Vishnu in the form of Narashimha appears from it and moves to attack Hiranyakashipu in defence of Prahlāda. In order to kill Hiranyakashipu and not upset the boon given by Brahma, the form of Narashimha is chosen. Hiranyakashipu could not be killed by human, deva or animal. Narashimha is neither one of these as he is a form of Vishnu incarnate as a part-human, part-animal. He comes upon Hiranyakashipu at twilight (when it is neither day nor night) on the threshold of a courtyard (neither indoors nor out), and puts the demon on his thighs (neither earth nor space). Using his sharp fingernails (neither animate nor inanimate) as weapons, he disembowels and kills the demon. Even after killing Hiranyakashipu, none of the present demigods are able to calm Narashimha's fury, not even Shiva. So all the gods and goddesses call his consort, Laksmi, but she is also unable to do so. Then, at the request of Brahma, Prahlāda is presented to Narashimha, and finally he is calmed by the prayers of his devotee. Before parting, Narashimha rewards the wise Prahlāda by crowning him as the king.

This commemorative occasion was celebrated in grand style at the temple. It was a huge function and devotees worked hard in setting everything up. Sugan and his team did a splendid job in preparing the altar together with the intricate flower, lime, grape, chillies and clove garlands. The temple was adorned with colourful decorations and overflowing with Prasad. Guruji arrived surprising everyone as the final preparations for the function were being carried out. After a short while the function was underway.

Guruji carried out vedic prayers and a havan to bless all present by helping to remove obstacles which lay in the path of aspirants in reaching the Lord. Guruji then carried out the abhishekum on Narashimhadev. What a beautiful sight and privilege it was to watch Him lovingly bathe Narashimhadev with a multitude of ingredients. Mayurin, a devotee from the UK, was too short to hold the dish over Narashimhadev's crown when abhishekum was done with fruit juice and our Deep (Jamie) had to step in to assist! The curtains were then drawn around the altar and prayers were continually chanted as Guruji and a few devotees dressed Narashimhadev.

Swami Vishwachakradharananda performed a havan outside for devotees to make offerings to Narashimadev. When the curtains were opened, Narashimhadev shone with His Light form adorned in decorations and various garlands; and surrounded by an arc of colourful flowers. The evening continued with much celebration and the highlight was when Guruji sang and danced with the jubilant crowd. It was so moving to watch Him bless each one present by applying a fragrant rose water and haldi paste to their foreheads. Such Humility, such Grace! Later, Prasad offered at the altar and maha Prasad was enjoyed by all.

Guruji in His Mercy and Humility continually gives to His devotees with so much of Love. It is this Love which fills our hearts and draws us closer and closer to Him. Such Beauty, such Delight! For me, it was a time of enjoying Guruji's Presence, soaking in His Love, jiving like a madman and just losing myself in Him, albeit for just a night! He's so Beautiful…



DARSHAN WITH SWAMI VISHWANANDA JHB REFLECTIONS BY KALINDI LEVITANThe temple in Southgate had been ablaze with excitement at the joy of having our Beloved Master and Guru to celebrate Chathurti with us and gift us with 4 darshans, 2 in Johannesburg and 2 in KwaZulu Natal.After so many meetings and prearrangements headed by our fabulously competent Pam Singh, the teams of devotees worked tirelessly at their tasks in various stalls, to ensure all was ready and in place for the great night of Darshan in Southgate, Johannesburg. This was the first time that we were making and selling food at very reasonable rates at our Darshan food section, and this proved to be a great idea and food for thought for our future events. The temple was magnificently decorated and Jwala Narasinga was at His Glorious best bedazzled and bedecked with new clothes, lots of jewellery and adorned with flowers and offerings.We so called “closed shop” for a short while so we could attend the appearance of Guruji. How can one explain the excitement and anticipation of His arrival? We started singing and chanting: “Narayana, Narayana, Jai Govinda Hare, Narayana, Narayana, Jaya Gopala Hare”The energy was immense as we continued to chant this divine mantra, and finally our Lord and Master arrived dazzling in a beautiful shiny blue robe, in all His glory, grace and splendour. He ascended His beautiful throne fit for a king.The temple was packed edge to edge with people, many of them magnetically drawn to Him through dreams “co-incidences” and many other reasons, but above all the common thread was to receive blessings and grace from our beloved Guruji.Guruji sang a whole array of new bhajans that many of us were unfamiliar with, but this never stopped us fully participating in the singing. Many new and unheard words were made up by those unfamiliar with the language, but we finally more or less got it, and sang with our hearts delight.Guruji then gave a beautiful discourse on His favourite subject “LOVE”.His message was as always so simple, beautiful and powerful. He reiterated that you cannot have love without devotion as the inner core of love is devotion. He spoke about the “blazing fury and all-consuming fire of love” (that is how Mayurin explained it at Chaturthi) that the Bhakta needs to develop towards God/Krishna. Then nothing external matters except the relationship between the Lord and the Bhakta. One needs a single pointed devotion, single pointed aim, and then you will feel His love and also reflect His love. He said how wonderful it is for the Universal Lord to have unique relationship with the Bhakta/devotee. He said everyone knows God, but does God have a personal relationship with His devotee? He said simplicity leads to humility and that awakens love, then a unique personal relationship will develop with Him. He went on to say - you know the King, - but does the King know you? The King is seated inside of You, inside your heart. The Kingdom of God is within You and when this Kingdom awakens life becomes joyful and blissful. He then said with a divine smile on His face, you don't have to die to go to Heaven. His cheeky grin increased as He then went on to say you don't even know if you have earned the punya to get to heaven, so make every effort to find Heaven on earth. He reminded us that our relationship with God needs to be reawakened, that this is not something new, but ancient knowledge made new in the presence of Love. Darshan then began, and the glory of God spread His Love thick on all who were there to receive. It was a night to remember and I spoke to many people after darshan who were totally bewildered and in awe of the Divinity they just experienced. Blessings and Love to our Divine Guruji, who is in our Hearts forever.

RELECTIONS BY BY VIJAN SINGHTime's delicate feet ultimately reached her reluctant zenith and subtly led us on to the final Darshan. Infinity would not bestow us with a boon as we were reminded of the impending conclusion of our beloved's visit.Resplendant in his robes the master, Sri Swami Vishwananda proceded to captivate, without surcease, the enthralled audience, touching hearts and joining souls in heavenly harmony, as only the great philanthropist can. Every word a symphony, reverie in every song, tantalising the supreme, who must gaze jealously at the wonder of love absolute. Sadly, as is nature's way, the end was in sight, as our beloved Guruji gave blessings to the last fortunate devotee, we gazed with heavy hearts, but once again, the Divine, took pity on us and blessed all with a medley of bhajans that left every Devotee present in drunken stupor with love and the grace of the Guru.Blessed are those whose souls reflect in the infinite eyes of a Guru's love....”

13 -14/03/2015 – RETREAT AT MTUNZINI FOREST LODGE – REFLECTIONS BY KRISHNAVENI JAGARNATH

The devotees arrived at the Mtunzini lodge in the late afternoon and some of us arrived just in time for supper. It was a very peaceful and different environment as we were surrounded only by nature and a clean beach. In the dark, some devotee saw fireflies for the first time, while soaking and experiencing the silence of nature on a nature trail to the beach. On this retreat Swamiji spoke a bit on the Srimad Bhagavatam and shared some interesting stories. He also arranged for the devotees to work in groups and to teach the others what they had learnt, thereby involving everyone and making us learn much more. We were able to work with each other and help each other to understand the respective passages and how to apply it in our daily lives.Another highlight of this retreat was interacting with devotees which were special and amazing. Everyone became more open and free to share how they felt, and express their love with one another. We were able to feel the love between each other and were able to appreciate and understand each other more and thereby realise how amazing and special each devotee is. As always every moment with Swami was amazing and blissful. Everyone also had the opportunity of some personal time with Swami and to ask him any questions they wanted. I also realised after this retreat that the only true relationship that one can have is with the Guru.

On the last day after breakfast, everyone gathered around and poured their hearts out about their experience and journey thus far with Swami and being in Bhakti Marga, and we all had a deeper appreciation for being on this path and having our Gurus... It was also a clear indication that Swami was opening each of our hearts, and he mentioned that it is good to be open and free like this. After wiping away all these tears of love, and gratitude, we all then packed up and headed to a dam. As all the devotees gathered twigs and leaves and some newspaper to make a fire, we used a pot and boiled the water and then brewed the tea and used the remaining milk to make just enough tea for everyone as the weather was getting chilly. This was the most delicious cup of tea we ever had, and definitely kept us going for the rest of the journey! We all then parted ways, wishing that we weren't and looking forward to being with everyone sooner rather than later.





10-12/04/2015 - REFLECTIONS BY PARUL MEHTA, OMHCC SINGAPORE

I met Swami Vishwachakradharananda for the first time and it felt as if I have known him for a long time. It was a blessing to host him. It was my first time organising an event, but amazingly was smooth sailing right from the day I agreed to host Swamiji in Singapore. I felt like things were happening on their own and I was being guided all along.There was an OM healing session and Satsang on Friday night 10th April at Reiki Centre, attended by a small group. It was a night where even the Angels came down along with the Masters to chant OM. The atmosphere was electrifying and vibrations were so strong that I still get goosebumps. Swamiji answered all the questions patiently and in the end he gave us his blessing. I felt so much of love and something within me stirred. Atma Kriya workshop on 11th & 12th April by Swamiji was a life changing experience where words fail to do justice. It opens the door to a whole new world which cannot be explained, only experienced. Shaktipat (descent from Grace) on the 2nd day of the workshop is completely mind blowing and different for different people. Personally for me I was floating and felt happiness & peace.Three of the Atma Kriya Yoga students, including me, ended into Jal Brahmacharis of Swami Vishwananda initiated by Swamiji. Thank you Swamiji for sharing the wisdom and unconditional love.

Reflections by other participants-Papia Niyogi shares...We meet so many people in this world and everybody we meet is for some reason, I totally believe. Om healing was the reason I met Parul and because of her, I was able to meet Swamiji who showed us path of self-enlightenment. Finding peace in the outside world was what I was doing till I met Swamiji but never realized that we can find peace within us. Atma Kriya has changed life in 360 degrees, Swamiji told us on the last day of Atma Kriya that your life will change from today onwards and it did. Practicing Atma Kriya for a week I could feel the difference, emotionally and physically I feel strong. Swamiji is my parasol that's how I feel.

Jasleen writes The OM Healing session and satsang with Swami Vishwachakradharananda was a beautiful divine experience full of love and healing for the mind, body and soul. Much gratitude towards Bhakti Marga and Swamiji for his visit to Singapore and the Om healing session.

Sonia writesOm Session with Swamiji was very uplifting. It left me feeling very light yet very energetic. His blessing felt as if a current passed through my spine. His presence was very calming and love and joy filled me. This joy stayed with me for many days. It was very difficult for me to move myself away from Swamiji. I just wanted to be in his presence. Thank You Swamiji for so much love and joy!

Nidhi writes The two days (Atma Kriya) with Swamiji was an amazing experience. I felt purely loved. Ever since I have done Atma Kriya, my heart is calm even though my mind is stressed. It's taught me to love myself for who I am. And that's when in true sense you appreciate others and their love for you. I am still exploring the path but I am truly thankful to Parul and Swamiji for being part of this journey.

SWAMI VISHWACHAKRADHARANANDA'S SINGAPORE TOUR APRIL


3-9/04/2015 - REFLECTIONS BY DEEPIKA, BMCC MALAYSIA

Swami Vishwachakradharananda's Malaysia Tour was kick-started many months ago, during Navaratri 2014 in Shree Peetha Nilaya, Germany. Swamiji gave a short speech during the Atma Kriya Yoga Advanced Teacher Training (we were being trained on Public Speaking). I was blown away by Swamiji's talk (Wow!). While conversing with Khilan (AKYCC of Kenya), I merely said that I think Swami Vishwachakradharananda would be very good for Malaysia, without being very serious about it. A few days later, Swamiji walked up to me while I was sitting alone in the dining hall, and offered to visit Malaysia in 2015. I was both surprised (at the speed of which the thought was made reality) and not surprised (for this is how it works in SPN, and also with Sri Swami Vishwananda). We (the organising team) were very blessed to be able to spend 6 days with Swami Vishwachakradharananda, on his Malaysia Tour, a jam-packed schedule of non-stop activities, covering 3 states in Malaysia, in 6 days.From the time Swamiji arrived to the next few days, we got a good taste of the Malaysian hospitality. First, Swamiji was welcomed to the home of Thasarathan Supramaniam (Atma Kriya Yoga teacher), and we were served two (lunch and dinner) absolutely delicious and very filling South Indian vegetarian meals on banana leaf, prepared by Thasarathan's mother! That night itself, 5 of us (Swamiji, Thasarathan and wife, me and my husband) left for what turned out to be 3.5 hours drive through the Friday night jam on the highway to our first destination, Ipoh. It was a good opportunity for us to get acquainted with Swamiji and listen to his sharing of wisdom and humour! Our hosts in Ipoh, Renukka and Shan, welcomed us at the late hour of half-past-ten, and as it turns out, the night was not over. We had a spontaneous satsang with Swamiji until quite late at night.

SWAMI VISHWACHAKRADHARANANDA'S MALAYSIA TOUR APRIL


Saturday, 4 April 2015 - Next morning, we woke up early for Babaji's Surya Namaskar and Atma Kriya Yoga In-depth Course with Swamiji. As I walked downstairs to the living room, I can sense the energy that has filled the house. Swamiji was conducting some private prayer ceremony in the little temple room of our hosts, which houses a murti of Shirdi Sai Baba and a life-sized picture of Satya Sai Baba. The Masters must have been present then! We started our morning together with Guru Puja to Sri Swami Vishwananda, after all of us have assembled in the living room, and after a few quick rounds of Babaji's Surya Namaskar, we had another truly delicious Indian breakfast served by our hosts. The Atma Kriya In-depth Course took place next over 3.5 hours, with Swamiji refreshing on the techniques and gently guiding us on the techniques. Since Ipoh is such a quiet town, and the energy is calmer and cleaner there, it was really a very quiet and peaceful In-depth Course, and we can really delve deep into the techniques in absolute silence. Perfect peace! Our hosts got the boost they were looking for, with this In-depth Course.


After a delicious home-cooked lunch by our host, Renukka, we rested and prepared for the night event – the Public Talk and OM Healing at the Shirdi Sai Baba Centre, in Ipoh. It was very gracious of the Chairman of Shirdi Sai Baba Society of Malaysia to invite Swami Vishwachakradharananda to give talks and OM Healing at 2 of his centres in Malaysia – Ipoh and KL. The success of the Public Talk and OM Healing at the Shirdi Sai Baba centre exceeded our expectations – about 150-180 persons attended the event. Swamiji started by singing 2 bhajans, joined happily by the Shirdi Sai Baba devotees. After a short talk about OM Healing, we started the OM Healing session. About 90 persons sat in the 2 circles, the other half had to sit outside due to space limitations. Everything went smoothly once we started. The energy of the OM Healing picked up after 10minutes, and was consistently strong thereafter. The people who attended loved the OM Healing session, and also loved Swami Vishwachakradharananda. So many came up to us to ask more about OM Healing, and expressed interest to continue doing OM Healing. There was also a long queue to receive personal blessings from Swamiji, while we talked with the people who were interested to know more. Even during dinner afterwards, the volunteers at the centre could not stop talking about the energy during OM Healing, and how lucky they were to experience this. This event was a great success, the people responded very positively to Swami Vishwachakradharananda and OM Healing. And on that night itself, Swamiji gave Renukka, our host, the blessings to lead OM Healing circles.

Sunday, 5 April 2015 - Next morning, we were up before dawn – to drive 3 hours south to KL, capital city of Malaysia! Our first destination was Batu Caves, famous world-wide for Lord Murugan's temple, situated inside a cave, after climbing a long flight of stairs. This was Swamiji's first visit to Batu Caves. I am glad Swamiji was with us, as he explained some parts of the Ramayana (there was a Ramayana gallery at the Caves) and also explained the significance of Lord Murugan, and why His temple is located at the top of the caves, under a natural opening in the caves (representing the crown chakra). We prayed and broke some coconuts, and then took the time to sit inside Lord Murugan's temple to meditate and do our Atma Kriya Yoga practice. It was a powerful practice!



Next up, is the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the only North Indian temple in KL. Here, an Atma Kriya Yoga Sadhak, Nisha, acted as our host, as she led us from our hotel to the temple. The temple is beautiful, made of marbles, rich and clean. There were murtis of Lakshmi Narayan, Radha Krishna, Sita Rama, Durga, and Shiva Parvati. We were fortunate to witness the evening aarti by the priest, and we had the temple to ourselves. We sat and meditated for a while, Swamiji seemed to enjoy this temple very much, sitting quietly on his own. We were then taken downstairs to see Maa Kali, and also Saraswathi, next to the Hindi School.


We then headed to the Shirdi Sai Baba centre in KL for the Public Talk and OM Healing session. About 130-150 attended this event, mostly first-timers to OM Healing, again exceeding the expectations of the centre's organisers, as it was a Sunday night. We had to rush through the talk and OM Healing due to time limitations, nevertheless the energy was also strong during OM Healing, but somehow different also. This time, we witnessed a lady who went into a trance during OM Healing, which was new for me. We did not get to interact with the people in KL so much, as all were rushing for time. Still, there was an extremely long queue to get personal blessings from Swamiji, and people waited patiently for that! Monday, 6 April 2015 - Next morning, we had an impromptu AKY refresher session for our host, Nisha, who after words of encouragement from Swamiji, decided to take up her AKY practice again. We then departed KL, to head back to Penang, where we have another Public Talk and OM Healing session that night! Taking our sweet time to drive 5 hours back to Penang, we arrived just in time to head to the Sri Ramar Temple for the evening event! About 55 persons attended, and we had our regular Atma Kriya Yoga Sadhaks and OM Healing circle participants with us. The OM Healing started strongly and remained consistently strong throughout the 45 minutes. Our regular AKY Sadhaks said that the energy was the strongest they had experienced so far in all of our OMH sessions. Swamiji took the time to give a talk about the importance of a Guru, and to interact with the people who came, taking photos and answering questions.



Some participants also asked for a hug from Swamiji, touched deeply by his loving presence. Some came up to me to express their gratitude for this blessing, to be able to meet Swami Vishwachakradharananda and receive his blessings. One lady said she immediately felt deep peace within her heart after receiving the blessing from Swamiji. On this night also, Swamiji gave the OM Healing blessings to another lady, who will make the 4th OM Healing Organizer in Penang. We plan to form one more circle in Penang.

Swamiji led us to deepen the practice, at the same Sadhaks had. And for those who were not practicing consistently, Swamiji encouraged them to find the will to at least practice one round of Main Kriya each day. Some participants had really deep experiences during this In-depth Course, which they did not share, except privately. One lady said she saw Swami Vishwananda during the course. We ended for lunch, and then got about to preparing for the Kalash Puja and Yagna that evening. The Sri Malai Muniswarar Temple (a form of Lord Shiva) has very graciously allowed us to use their temple grounds and yagna pit for our prayers. It is beautiful to see how they welcomed Swamiji, and assisted in the preparations of the prayers. Their resident priest was also present during our entire ceremony, watching.

The preparations for the yagna and puja turned out to be teamwork, with instructions from Swamiji, as none of us have the experience in preparing for this type of event. We somehow got everything together, except that we forgot to melt the ghee for the yagna!

We started with Guru Puja and then Kalash Puja. The energy during Kalash Puja was strong. Right after Kalash Puja, Swamiji started the yagna. No one really had any experience offering into the fire during yagna, as someone told me that in Malaysia, it is usually only the temple committee who can sit around the fire and perform the offerings. Therefore, the people who were present (more than 40 people attended) were very happy and grateful that Swamiji has allowed everyone to offer to the fire, and enthusiastically, all were throwing in the offerings as quickly as they could! Hence, they finished the offering even before Swamiji finished the mantras! We may need to do a short education session on how to offer to the fire, next time!

After the yagna, those who attended lined up to get blessings from Swami Vishwachakradharananda, and then dinner was provided. Everyone got to take home a little bit of the blessed water from the Kalash Puja, infused with the energy of Lakshmi Narayan. This is great blessings for Malaysia!

time, clarifying doubts and answering questions that the Kriya

Tuesday, 7 April 2015 - Next morning, we were up early again, this time for the Atma Kriya Yoga In-depth Course for Penang AKY Sadhaks. 17 AKY Sadhaks came for the In-depth Course, which was a good number for a working day.


But that is not the end of the events for the day. When dinner was over, Swamiji spoke to 7 of us about Jal Brahmachari initiations and what it means. To my surprise, we all agreed to take this step and so, on the auspicious night of 7 April 2015, 7 of us were initiated as the first 7 Jal Brahmacharis of Sri Swami Vishwananda in Malaysia! During the initiations, I can feel the warm love in my heart, resonating as Swami Vishwananda's presence is strongly felt. Wednesday, 8 April 2015 - Swamiji finally has time to relax a little and see a little bit of Penang Island. We went on a temple tour around the island, stopping at a Krishna temple, Shiva temple, Kali temple, and 2 Buddhist temples. The Kali temple by the sea was nice, we meditated and did our AKY practice there. Then at 4pm, Swamiji led the last OM Healing session for this tour, at the Ramakrishna Ashram, which is also an orphanage for 50 children.

The Chairman of Ramakrishna Ashram met Swamiji the night before at the Yagna in the Sri Malai Muniswarar Temple, and after receiving the blessings from Swamiji, he immediately felt moved to invite Swamiji to the orphanage the next day to bless all the children also. The children were all excitedly assembled and waiting for Swamiji when we arrived at the temple inside the Ashram grounds. It was a temple dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna.We had 45 children participating in the OM Healing circle, ages between 5 to teenage. There were 2 circles formed, as the girls and boys had to sit on different sides of the room. The children made it through 45 minutes. The girls were much better behaved and OM-ed properly, with concentration. The boys were loud and boisterous, some competing to see who can OM the loudest, some pushing and playing with each other. Swamiji, Thasarathan and some unknown entity had to make the boys behave. But still all remained in the circle and finished the OM Healing properly, in the end. We all heard mantras being loudly chanted at some point, too loud to be missed. Then the children lined up to receive blessings from Swamiji, and it was touching to see that they knew how to kneel, touch the feet of Swamiji and then receive the blessings. We then gathered as the children did the aarti for the evening prayers. They were taught how to pray also!




We ended the evening with dinner gathering of the AKY Sadhaks who were able to make it. After dinner, we had a secret rendezvous with the famous King of Fruits – the durian! This is a must for first-time visitors to Malaysia (well, unless the fragrance of the fruit puts them off)! We had to eat it on the roadside outside of the restaurant, at the back of Thasarathan's truck, as the restaurant did not allow us to bring the fruit in, thanks to its heavy aroma!

It was Swamiji's first time eating the King of Fruits, and I am sure he had a memorable experience of it!

Thursday, 9 April 2015 - We sent Swamiji off for his morning flight to Singapore, after 6 days of non-stop excitement and being on the go. It felt like a heavy anti-climax after so much excitement. Still, Swamiji's presence had already started off many exciting projects for Bhakti Marga, Atma Kriya Yoga and OM Healing in Malaysia, and we have finally shifted into higher gears, ready to bring Bhakti Marga presence more strongly into Malaysia, and grow AKY and OMH too! I am very grateful that Swami Vishwachakradharananda took the time and effort to visit Malaysia, and with his presence, energy and wisdom, helped us to reach the people here, and to grow Sri Swami Vishwananda's mission here. The people of Malaysia loved Swami Vishwachakradharananda very much – everywhere we went, people asked “When is Swamiji coming back to Malaysia?” It was a much needed boost for the country!

Reflections by other participants:Selvakeni Supramaniam: “The feeling when Swami Vishwachakradharananda is around is very nice. We feel very comfortable in his presence, he is very friendly, approachable and humble. We must invite him to visit Malaysia again!

Rajan: “I am happy that my first time visit to Batu Caves was with Swami Vishwachakradharananda, as he explained the significance of Lord Murugan, the placing of the temple at the top, representing the crown chakra. That was knowledge we would not have gained if we were just simply visiting as a tourist. Overall, travelling with Swamiji throughout the tour was very relaxing and fun, I feel at ease because Swamiji is like a friend.

Renukka Thulasiraman: “Shan and I feel very blessed to have Swami Vishwachakradharananda to stay with us. After Swami's visit, I feel that my Atma Kriya Yoga practice has become more powerful. Now I feel I'm more to spiritual life compared to material life. As for OM Healing, I feel I have been blessed and motivated where I can do some service to this world (Renukka got the blessings to lead OM Healing circles from Swamiji). And I feel happier and less stressed now. Please send our (Renukka, Shan and their 2 children) love to Swamiji, with his blessings we will serve more to this world.”

Thasarathan Supramaniam: “Jai Gurudev! Swami Vishwachakradharananda's visit to Malaysia was very special to me and my family. I am very much humbled by his humility and the way that he mixed with all people unconditionally during the whole trip. We felt Swami Vishwananda's presence with him the whole time, and till now we are feeling blessed and are feeling loved at our house.”

Sumintra: “Jai Gurudev! The opportunity to be able to spend time and be around with Swami Vishwachakradharananda was one of my happiest moments and was very memorable. Swami brought me closer to my heart and Babaji during the In-depth Course.”

BHAKTI MARGA SA CELEBRATED & PARTICIPATED IN THE FOLLOWING EVENTS/PRAYERSIf you’ve attended a Maha Om healing and have done an Atma Kriya course, please do tell your friends and

family about it. Word of mouth will help more people connect with their Atma. For further information about Bhakti Marga SA and forthcoming courses or events please visit:

www.bhaktimarga.co.za or www.atmakriya.org or Email: [email protected]



� Shri Maha Kripalu Gayatri Devi Temple�28/01/2015 -Maha om healing with Swami Vishwachakradharananda (Westville North Library)�31/01/2015 -Maha Gayatri Yagna with Jaal Brahmacharis �07-08/02/2015 -Guru Gita Retreat JHB�08/02/2015 -Full moon Om healing at Blue Lagoon �17/02/2015 -Shivaratri celebrations at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple with Swami

Vishwachakradharananda and at Maha Jwala Narasimha Temple with Swami

�19/02/2015 -Satsang and dinner with devotees visiting from Darnall Hare Krishna Ashram�20-22/02/2015 -Swami Vishwachakradharananda PE tour accompanied with Swami

(Satsang, Discourse, Om healing, Guru Gita Discourse & Feeding Seva Program at Eastern Province Child & Youth Care)

�28/02/- 01/03/2015 -Atma Kriya Yoga Course at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�04-05/04/2015 -Retreat with Swami Vishwaparanthapananda (Hanuman Jayanthi and Easter

celebrations as well as an interactive discourse on the Guru-Disciple relationship)�05/03/2015 -Holi celebrations & Fullmoon Om healing at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�05/03/2015 -Fullmoon Om healings in Mounthaven P. School Verulam & Westville North Library�07/03/2015 -Gayatri Yagna for Jaal Brahmacharis & the end of 40 days Gayatri Mantra chanting�08/03/2015 -Om healing at Blue lagoon Green Hub�13-14/03/2015 -Retreat at Mtunzini Forest Lodge & start of Mantra project�17/03/2015 -Swami Vishwachakradharananda’s trip to Istanbul�21-28/03/2015 -Ramayan Week at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�28/03/2015 -Raam Naumi Celebrations at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�01/04/2015 -Maha Om Healing with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Umhlatuzana Civic Hall�04/04/2015 -Hanuman Jayanthi Celebrations at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�05/04/2015 -Fullmoon Om Healing in Lotusville Verulam�02-12/04/2015 -Swami Vishwachakradharananda’s trip to Singapore & Malaysia�13/04/2015 -Swami Vishwachakradharananda’s interview on Radio Lotus�22/04/2015 -Swami Vishwachakradharananda’s interview on Radio Hindvani�28-04/- 04/05/2015 -Swami Vishwananda’s visit to KZN & JHB (Darshan, Abishekum, Narasimha

Chaturthi, feeding seva project at Lee primary school, discourse, satsang)�09/05/2015 -Luxmi yagna with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Shri Maha Shanta Narasimha Temple�16-17/05/2015 -Atma Kriya Yoga course with Swami Vishwachakradharananda (JHB)�23-24/05/2015 -Atma Kriya Yoga course with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Shri Maha Shanta

Narasimha Temple (KZN)�26/05/2015 -Maha Om Healing with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Hari Harinath Temple, Shakaskraal�28/05/2015 -Satsang and dinner with devotees from Darnall Hare Krishna Ashram�30-31/05/2015 -Maha Om Healing & Atma Kriya Yoga course with Swami Vishwachakradharananda (Nelspruit)�02/06/2015 -Maha fullmoon Om Healing with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Sri Ayyapa Seva Sungam,

Malvern�06-07/06/2015 -Satsang & discourse with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Darnall festival of chariots�13/06/2015 -Swami Vishwananda’s birthday celebrations KZN & JHB�21/06/2015 -International Yoga day Activities with Swami Vishwachakradharananda (KZN) & Swami

Vishwaparanthapananda (JHB)�27/06/2015 -6th Anniversary celebrations with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Sri Maha Jwala

Narasimha Temple�29/06/2015 -Maha Om Healing with Swami Vishwachakradharananda at Mountview Civic Centre, Verulam

25/01/2015 -1 year anniversary celebrations at

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Vishwaparanthapananda

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