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PROBLEMS OF TODAY SOLUTIONS FOR TOMORROW
Author Pandit Sri Ram Sharma Acharya
Translated by: T.N. Sahai
2000
Price:
Published by: Yugtirth Shantikunj Hardwar- 249411, U.P. (India) Phones: 91-1334-260403, 260602 Fax: 91-1334-260866 EMail: shantikunj@awgp.org Website: www.awgp.org
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CONTENTS
CONTROL REGRESSION BEFORE ATTEMPTING PROGRESS WISDOM IS AS IMPORTANT AS EDUCATION LEARN TO SEE THE TRUTH BEHIND THE ILLUSIONS WHO WOULD CONFRONT THESE ADVERSITIES AND HOW ? SIMPLE SOLUTIONS TO DIFFICULT PROBLEMS AWAKENING CAN ESTABLISH A NEW WORLD ORDER APPEARANCE OF GODMEN WISDOM VERSUS EDUCATION
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CONTROL REGRESSION BEFORE ATTEMPTING PROGRESS
A maniac let loose on the thoroughfare may create a havoc amongst the passers-by and injure many seriously. It is done quite effortlessly; but on the other hand, is it possible to restore the damage that easily ? Modern generation has been living in the mania of two mistaken beliefs. One-the scientific developments have made man omnipotent and two-that instant gain is all that matters. In this euphoria man has totally lost balance of judgment. With scientific achievements, he has become so much powerdrunk that he has stopped thinking about consequences of his impetuous actions. Under the existing circumstances, irresponsible individuals keep on repenting for the outcome of their thoughtless misdeeds. World is facing similar crisis today. With a peculiar mania man has begun to destroy systematically the very things on which his survival depends. Survival of human race is in danger. One has to pay a heavy price for the cruel jokes and playing with the nature. The numerous problems and crisis in the society have arisen because of man's own irresponsible, wrong actions. In other words, we may call these, exercises in futility. However, it is the responsibility of mankind itself to right the wrong. There is no other option.
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Problems of today
No doubt, many innovations will be needed for ushering in prosperous future in the next century, but the causes responsible for the present day problems will have to be reviewed to understand whether remedial measures were adequate. This much of analysis would itself be sufficient to resolve the problems to a great extent. To begin with, let us consider 'production' More or less fifty percent population of the world today is hardly contributing anything to development of resources. An average human being spends almost his entire life in just looking after his domestic requirements. He neither makes economic nor intellectual contribution to the society expected from a healthy human being. His contributions to the numerous problems of the society beyond his home are minimal. He finds himself a mute witness to the problems of illiteracy, poverty and regression around himself. In the developed nations, women are playing a leading role in developmental activities of their homeland. If women are allowed to develop and systematise their god-gifted capabilities, they can effortlessly increase the expertise, production and productivity of their homeland manifold. It would be difficult otherwise. Another big problem facing the world today is unwarranted growth in population. Just two thousand years ago the population of the world was about thirty crores (three hundred millions). Today, it has increased to six hundred crores (six thousand millions) i.e., about twenty times. The proportion of land, which was then available
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to one man, has now to be shared by twenty. The process has, however, not come to an end. It is continuing in geometrical progression and gradually heading towards total ecological imbalance and disaster. If human lust could be restrained, procreation would automatically be constrained. Then, at some later stage, we may hope for decline in population growth which would inevitably help in alleviating many problems easily. These days, the tendency of thoughtless extravagance has crossed all limits of decency. It is well known that enough time and money is being squandered in consumption of liquors and drugs, showmanship, personal ornamentation and in making expensive arrangements for matrimonial functions. Indecent make-ups and wearing of vulgar garments by women encourages lustful reactions. Besides, it paves the way for sexual perversions. Exhibitionism, dowry and overemphasis on ornaments in matrimonial functions are totally destroying the economic structure of the society. Does it need a very high level of competence to get rid of these evils ? Why should anyone find it difficult to avoid such undesirable elements? Is it difficult, burdensome or impossible to follow the dictum of "simple living and high thinking"? Just this much will be sufficient to reduce the sufferings due to poverty to half. If one keeps control on the unrestrained arrogance of exhibiting affluence, there would hardly remain any trace of competition in the society to become a millionaire.
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Problems of today
Does following the life-style of an average citizen belittle anyone in the society ? On the contrary, he gets the credit for being more idealist, happy, contented, disciplined and liberal. If the expenditure on assuming the so-called high status in the society could be curtailed by following a modest style of living, enough will be saved for the down-trodden and they will be liberated from their forced misery and helplessness. In this context, let us look at the structure of the armed forces, where all personnel of the same rank are provided identical facilities. Equality is, in fact, an ingredient of modesty. Communities of saints and ascetics follow an established code for living. Any departure from this code is always looked down upon. It is true that the status of kings and their ministers in the bygone days was recognised by the exhibition of their riches; for the modern society, this concept has become obsolete. Today, anyone emulating a king or a lord of Easter year would be looked down upon as a foolish imposter. Communistic-socialistic concepts have now taken roots in the psyche of the masses, who regard the abnormally rich as thugs and cheats and keep on accusing them with numerous improprieties. Extravagance can definitely be stopped, and the savings there from utilized for raising the living standards of millions. This is the only way to level the incongruities of the society for erecting the framework of social upliftment. Af-
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fluence, when utilized for objectives other than arrogant exhibitionism produces better results. Propriety of family inheritance in the economic structure should be limited to making provisions for living for the helpless. It could also be justified as business inheritance. However, there is absolutely no justification in augmenting the assets of the earning members of the family by handing them over the savings of ancestors. It is very difficult to establish the credibility of law-makers and merits of those who were supposed to have benefited from these laws. Nevertheless, natural justice demands that irrespective of the so-called rights of the earners, money has to be utilized where it is needed most. When such reforms are undertaken, many of the crisis facing this world will be resolved, without any special efforts.
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WISDOM IS AS IMPORTANT AS EDUCATION
Some problems of he society need immediate resolution. Only a minimal requirement of education is fulfilled through the medium of existing educational institutions. In a nutshell, such literacy serves limited objective such as reading, writing and accounting. Modern education lays somewhat excessive emphasis on subjects which are hardly of any use in practical life. History, geography, geometry and numerous such subjects are rarely of any help in day to day living. Nevertheless, in the prevalent system, to call oneself educated , one must acquire a school certificate or a degree which is generally worth nothing more than a scrap of paper. The so-called educated un-employed face many problems and in turn create problems for others. They consider manual labour below their dignity. Besides, they are also not used to manual work. In this context, un-educated face fewer problems. The importance of education, however, can never be over-emphasised. Wisdom (Vidya) on the other hand gives one true knowledge (Gyan) and ignorant person is akin to a blind man. Wisdom is the biggest treasure one may aspire to acquire. It is believed to be the source of nectar (Amrit). However, the benefits accrue only when one attempts to utilize wisdom for discretion in actions
and development of virtues, character and personality to make the best use of one's talents commensurate with cultural needs. Otherwise, corrupt thinking and immoral actions make one more undesirable in the society and he becomes "a wise devil" (brahma rakshas). A review of present system of education is very much needed. We must find out whether the present day education is making any contribution to the development of personality and talent, structuring of a framework for civilized behaviour, or it is only a meaningless exercise. It is to be kept in mind that the aforementioned attributes are the foundation stones for development of human personality and in turn, of prosperity of society and the nation. In the absence of virtues, worthy of human dignity, an individual with bare higher education begins to behave with arrogant irresponsibility and may become a greater liability to the society than an uneducated person. One may acquire evil traits capable of harming anyone in every possible way. We should, therefore, fully appreciate the creative and destructive aspects of education. The elites of the world have always used education as the prime tool for shaping their society to enthuse their countrymen for bringing in desired changes in thought, character and behavioural pattern of the common man. In this country absence of such education is ubiquitous and too glaring. Under the existing circumstances, however, there is a little hope that the policy makers and organizers of educational system could be persuaded to
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Problems of today
bring about any major changes. For alleviating this situation, therefore, only one option is left. The thinkers and philosophers of the country should come forward to fill in this void and take necessary reformative measures with the help of responsible citizens. The ancient educational system was formulated with a wider perspective. Its objective was not only to provide knowledge about means of livelihood and their proper utilization but at the same time, it helped in bringing about a total change in thoughts and actions of man in the fields of natural resource management and human behaviour. In other words it provided an awakening, awareness, discretion or prudence. Addiction to any type of drug makes a person "semiconscious". In a state of intoxication, although physical senses of a person behave normally, one is incapable of exercising one's prudence. In the stupor, one becomes oblivious to the norms of civilities and cultural behaviour. A crude unpolished man belongs to this class. Such an individual does not know how to think according to human dignity, maintain appropriate level of character and incorporate sufficient modesty in his behaviour. He keeps on repeating irresponsible, thoughtless actions as if he is partially awake or intoxicated. On ignoring human dignity, a man is reduced to the status of a humanoid animal ("nar-pashu") or an ape. Humanity begins with culture and civilized behaviour. Every one,
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therefore, must develop an awareness of virtues, actions, character and disposition worthy of a cultured individual. Otherwise, one is bond to remain in a state of cultural infancy and ignominy. Not only doors to progress remain closed for such an individual, his ideas and actions continue to be ridiculed in a developed society. We must keep in mind that this is the age of materialism. The present day man considers himself to be only a bodyassembly of physical senses and mind, Consequently all his desires, aspirations and actions are confined to his physical body. Deliberations, studies and actions are thus related to the small confines of body only. For a common man any thought or action pertaining to the soul are irrelevant. This is, in fact, the domain of "wisdom" (Vidya). Its various facets of culture and morality influence and develop body and mind of the individual respectively. So far, this field of human development has remained neglected. This is because man has failed to understand the importance and necessity of this aspect of life. Education, as it is understood today, barely serves the objective of teaching social behaviour, managing livelihood and acquiring comforts and necessities. Just this much is not sufficient for a dignified living and in the absence of virtues, imbibing civility and modesty, the emotional level of an individual remains same as that of an animal. To make every human being wise and fill every mind with wisdom, a detailed plan should be formulated, which should fill in the void in the present institutional educa-
tion. For implementing this plan, time, industry and emotional involvement of thinkers and warm-hearted persons will be required in a measure equivalent to that being provided to government and private institutions which impart education to fulfil physical and material needs. The time is ripe for implementing such schemes far and wide with full enthusiasm and large scale coordination.
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LEARN TO SEE THE TRUTH BEHIND THE ILLUSIONS
God has bestowed the highest level of consciousness and emotional stimulus to human being. On account of coordination of his physical and mental capacities, he is rightly considered as the most competent living being on this earth. He has earned this qualification by virtue of achievements by his physical body. However, if one takes into account his invisible animate existence (astral body), it would appear that he has an unusual control lot only on matter but also on the extrasensory constituents of the universe present in the invisible field around us. In this way, man has an access to both, visible and invisible constituents of the universe and because of this qualification, the human existence is considered superior to an angelic entity. Thus, man has been rightly regarded as an angel who has lost his way. Deep within the astral body of a human being lie omnipotent spiritual power of the soul, which he is unable to utilize because of his entanglement in the visible materialistic objects and aontinues to suffer from miseries throughout his life and wanders about in bewilderment. The roots of all confusion lie when he forgets his won real self and mistakenly identifies himself as merely a physi-
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Problems of today
cal body. In his confusion, he treats the vehicle (body) as the driver (soul). A mirror reflects only the body-frame of a person and not his entire personality. The body too, though significant inhuman existence, does not represent the human entity in entirety. For this reason, though desires and requirements of body are to be fulfilled to a certain extent, it is not desirable to waste one's total resources on such fulfilment. The relationship between the vehicle and the "driver" is to be properly understood. Atom is an infinitesimally small, invisible particle of matter which is apparently an insignificant constituent of nature. Never the less, the nuclear energy inherent in an atom is enormous. A human being is a repository of billions of atoms, microbes, chemicals and electrical currents. An average human body of 1.65 metres height and 60 kilogram weight consists of perhaps as many shells as the total number of orbits of stars, planets and satellites in the solar system. Thus, the total magnitude of power within the human system is beyond imagination. With this inherent power, he is capable of managing the natural resources of the earth in entirety. Notwithstanding, its smaller form, incompetence, a human being is comparable to God. For this very reason, Divinity has always manifested itself on this earth in human form. Angels (devta) may or may not exist in heaven, angel-like man and women have been taking birth on this earth. They have appeared as super humans and messengers of God. As angels (devta), the super human have
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been found engaged in creation and a devils (rakshas) in destruction. In either case, they are known to have surpassed all limits. When man forgets his true identity, he begins to behave as a representative of devil (rakshas). The moment this self-realisation dawns on him he understands his true identity and capabilities and nothing on this earth can prevent him from climbing the peaks of excellence and become great divine superman. Everyone on this earth creates an environment for himself with his own wilful perception and outlook. One is at liberty to wear coloured glasses and see the world around him in the colour of his choice. Similarly, one may close his eyes to surround oneself with darkness or plug the ears for total silence. Likewise, heaven (swarg) or hell (narak) are merely perceptual illusions which human beings continue to create or modify according to their will. All matter comprising this earth and its objects is inert. There is nothing good or bad in it., The only attributes of matter are size and shape. Happiness and unhappiness associated with objects are because of one's own perception. Thus, matter cannot generate piety or sin. Only utilization or miss-utilization of matter gives one the sense of committing a virtuous or a sinful act. A railway engine, however, powerful it may be, can not reach its destination on its own. Driven by itself, it may at the most meet with an accident but to reach its destination, it requires the guidance of man. It is, therefore, evident that the inert
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Problems of today
matter and the objects on this earth di not in the least affect the environment. It is the human being-the direct manifestation of Bio-Energy of the universe, who is fully responsible for creating each and every type of environment. It is, thus, imperative that for shaping the future in accordance with our requirements, it is desirable to take a stock of the factual position and generate "Mass-thinking" accordingly. Physical requirements of man have hardly changed through the ages but societies known to have been more prosperous and happier earlier (Satyug) than it is today. This is because there has been a major change in man's thought and behaviour. Man, not only makes his own destiny, he even plans and influences massthinking, social activity and mass movements according to his wishes. Our objective here is not to water the withered leaves but to provide nutrients to the roots. A question arises-what is required for a happy and prosperous future? There is one and only one answer, Change the perspective. One may feel satisfied in giving shape to a variety of plans and arranging logistics for their implementation to usher in a bright future. The planners are, in fact, ever busy in finding ways for human prosperity. Nevertheless, their efforts hardly mean anything more than moving pieces on chess-board. The winner of the game always turns out to be the person with greater mental analytical capacity, thought for no reason whatsoever, the pieces on the
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chessboard get the credit or discredit for the outcome of the game. A shallow thinker lays total emphasis on visuals, material substances and events. Only a few blessed with the invisible attributes like philosophical thinking, analytical bent of mind, enthusiasm and courage are able to appreciate the dexterity of the master puppeteer working behind the screen. Only he has the real solutions to all problems. It is futile to attempt to manoeuvre the captive puppets. Nevertheless, children become fascinated by movingtoys. They are hardly aware of the mechanism within, responsible for the movements.
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WHO WOULD CONFRONT THESE ADVERSITIES AND HOW ?
Many a problem facing humanity today appear beyond redemption. They are a source of worry throughout the world. Inspite of best efforts, the top talents and elites of the world have not found solutions to these problems. The biggest crisis confronting the world today is that created by continuous addition of pollutants to the environment. Industrial establishments are polluting the atmosphere to such an extent that the day is not far when living beings will not have enough oxygen left to survive. Industrial effluents being discharged into rivers are also gradually poisoning the sources of drinking water. Regular consumption of water containing small undetectable amount of pollutants has become a potential health hazard. Chemical fertilizers and insecticides, too, are finding their way into food items and thereby affecting health. Atmospheric temperature is also rising each day because of pollution and ablation of perennial ice cover closer. The protective layer of ozone over the troposphere is being destroyed thereby increasing the possibility of penetration of dangerous ultra-violet radiations. Trees and vegetation which help in preventing environmental pollution are being recklessly destroyed. Conse-
quently there is a progressive increase in expansion of deserts, migration of productive nutrients of soil, devastation by floods, abnormalities in monsoons and many other natural disasters. Reserves of natural resources like coal and oil are fast coming to an end because of heavy consumption by the industries. Where is man going to find fuel for these industries and for fast moving transports in future? Besides, reserves of other raw materials for the industries and transport systems are also finite and are not likely to last longer. There is a growing trend of reclamation of land from natural vegetation cover for residential complexes, industries and offices. Decrease in expanse of fertile land has resulted in paucity of fodder, creating serious ecological imbalances in the animal kingdom. Animals, trees and human beings are interdependent for their existence. Depletion or destruction of one of them would inevitably mean extinction of one of them would inevitably mean extinction of the remaining two. Fertility of land which is essential for human and animal kingdom is maintained by humus provided by the trees and excretion of human beings and animals. Environs of earth and monsoons too work in perfect harmony to bring i rains at appropriate time and place and prevent expansion of deserts. Men, animals, vegetation and climate are thus perpetually in a state of delicate environmental equilibrium which is essential for survival of biological system.
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Problems of today
Today, man is bent upon disturbing this very equilibrium which would mean nothing less than total disaster in the future. Why is humanity following this suicidal course? It is being emphasised that population is expanding by leaps and bounds. Consequently, a much greater need is being felt for more resources to provide for food, water, housing industry, business, educational institutions, hospitals and many more such facilities. How is it then possible to provide for the ever growing population without disturbing the eco-system? On the other hand, it is also not possible to put a sudden break in the population growth. Of late, a new type of business viz. "WAR" has come in to existence. The twentieth century has been a witness to two world wars and about tow hundred regional skirmishes. Notwithstanding, enormous damage to humanity in terms of loss of youth-power and family tragedies, enough man power, money power and brain power has been lost, which would otherwise have been sufficient to make the civilization of this world prosperous beyond imagination. Even today, man is wasting his efforts more for destructive preparedness than for creativity. The economic balance of the society has also gone haywire making the poor more poor and wealthy, wealthier each day. In their craze for monopoly, the effluents are spreading their net to grab stock markets and industries and to achieve this objective following a variety of capitalistic-
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expansionists policies, as a consequence of which human sufferings are in creasing manifold. All this has indirectly dealt a telling blow on the physical and mental health of the common man. Medical specialists, pharmaceutical research and hospitals have not been able to keep pace with the increase in diseases. It appears that in not too far a future, a healthy man will be a rarity. Since education is aimed at providing jobs only there does not appear a way to prevent unemployment and inoccupation in future. There has also grown a tendency to acquire expensive education for a higher living standard. The expense on such education is being counterbalanced by establishment of parallel income systems like bribery. It is understood that about 85% of budget allocations for welfare schemes is absorbed by the bureaucracy. What percentage of the remaining 15% reaches the beneficiary after usurpation of a large chunk by the middle-men, is anybody's guess. Now-a-days such democracies exist only for name sake wherein the voter is said to be the controller of administrative power at the grass root levels. But it is well known that in the existing illusions and political pressures, the basis for intelligent execution of franchise simply does not exist. Under the circumstances, one is bound to wonder whether the present democracy is at all effective for administration. Today, materialism has wiped out man's
faith in ideals. Man is singularly concerned about his personal material benefits. Ideals relevant to human dignity are, thought given lip-service, hardly any one is seen practising them. Misrepresentations, conceits and slander are gradually replacing religious and religious activities. With this wide spread adverse environment, one tends to feel bewildered and wonders whether it is at all possible to lay foundations of a prosperous and happy future ?
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SIMPLE SOLUTIONS TO DIFFICULT PROBLEMS
A piece of land sufficiently fertile can be filled with greenery and made appealing to eye by growing a crop or planting a garden. On the other hand, if it is barren with infestations of salts, not a blade of grass can be grown on it. For acquiring any natural resource from the earth, therefore, it is very necessary to maintain its natural environmental balance. For prosperity, man requires augmentation of a variety of comfort and resources. However growth of prosperity is intimately interlinked with health and development of sentient consciousness. Where monopolisers of land and resources or planners suffer from psychic imbalances, one should not hope for any creativity. On the contrary, this class of individuals brings about nothing else than antagonism, and destruction. In the foregoing pages, we have discussed that socioeconomic uncertainties bordering on anarchy, are facing mankind in the shape of an environment of strife, impending danger of cultural degradation and subjugation. We must soon find a way to eradicate these problem. Any delay is likely to lead us to the point of no return. While administering medical treatment to a chronic patient, al-
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Problems of today
though priority is given to cure the disease, yet the next essential step is to help in convalescence so that the patient gains enough physical strength and confidence to lead a normal life. For an individual, suffering from physical and mental imbalances, blood poisoning and numerous viral infections in several parts of body, even king's wardrobe and beautician's expertise scents and perfumes will not be of any help. On the other hand, a healthy person with a proportionate body-frame, (not-withstanding his financial status) does not need any artificial decorations to appear attractive. Besides he leads a contented and happy life, faces every day problems with equanimity and finds avenue for progress by a variety of means. In essence, resources and environments are not of any significance. What is essential is personal health, talent and farsightedness. After acquisition of these attributes, one does not find any need to complain about lack of facilities nor does he find any resistance in progress. On acceptance of living standards of an average citizen, one can comfortably live in a rural setting surrounded by large fields and small habitations and benefit from the invigorating environment of fresh air and scenic beauty. Culturally evolved civilizations of ancient times chose such habitat where all necessities of life were acquired by manual labour. In those days, environmental pollution was unheard-of, nor there was any crisis created by migra-
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tion of talents towards cities. Then, neither rural establishments were poorer, sparsely populated and undeveloped, nor cities were overcrowded filled with filth, dense population and dens of vices. Adaptation of old model of civilization can even today eradicate the problems which have made human life miserable everywhere. It would also not leave any scope for emergence of these problems in future. The moment humanity accepts the principle of 'simple living and high thinking', the numerous problems mentioned earlier will disappear. In spite of existing high rate of crime in the society, when each citizen begins to incorporate hard work, culture and nobility based on tenets of honesty, prudence and courage in life, the adversities will gradually disappear. Nature has equipped this planet with sufficient resources to provide bread and butter for each mouth, cloth for each body, shelter for each head and employment for every pair of hands. Why should then there be disparity of poverty and riches? What would then be the basis for continuance of illogical and tormenting customs differentiating people in the name of caste and sex? God has created man for spreading the message of love and helpful co-existence and not for belligerence, instigating violence and torturing fellow beings. By forgetting the mad race where each struggles for his won self interests one can totally get rid of the numerous problems hindering unity and equality amongst men. If nations could
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Problems of today
save all of their resources, efforts and talents being utilized for military purposes and used these for establishing a new order, all that is being foreseen for a happy and prosperous future for mankind by transformation of the social structure. These days atomic fuel is being made use of for maximum generation of power. If this trend continues, mankind will face a new giant killer of unclear rejects and atomic radiation. There is only one alternative available. Small power houses of the capacity of portable power generators should be constructed with available local resources and with the cumulative production of small cottage industries, operating on one or two horse powers of electricity, modern needs should be fulfilled. All consumers should be persuaded to make use of such small-scale products. Administrative establishments are generally dependant on expensive bureaucracy indifferent to responsibilities, in which workers have assumed a position of master of their masters. In such circumstances, there is little hope for effective social welfare. It is desirable to establish decentralised administrative units based on co-operatives and the entire system should have a benevolent attitude in its operation. In this way only, an ideal administrative system can come into existence which would serve as a medium to achieve the total objective of physical and meta-physical progress.
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The society is confronted with numerous incongruities and its members with innumerable problems. Unfortunately, the topmost talents and elites of the world are analysing each of these problems in isolation and making consistent efforts to find out independent solutions to each of them in their own way. However, nowhere success appears in sight. Diseases have, ever remained out of control in spite of enormous expenditures of men, money and material on hospitals, doctors, pharmaceuticals and medical research. Nor any degree of policing enactment of laws, establishments of new courts and prisons etc. have helped in reducing the crime. Though the populist slogan of "remove poverty" is quite appealing to the masses; measures like providing heavy amount of bank loans and massive financial assistance have proved to be counter productive because of corrupt thinking and evil addictions of the beneficiaries. People are bound to find crux of these numerous problems soon. In the crowd of millions of honey bees (problems) that queen bee (mother problem) is to be identified who is producing numerous off-springs and keeping all bees of the honeycomb busy in their upkeep.
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AWAKENING CAN ESTABLISH A NEW WORLD ORDER
Small, casual, local and personal problems may be analysed and resolved with lesser efforts, whereas to find solutions to problems pervading the entire social structure, it becomes necessary to make extensive preparations. A water-tap may be adequate for supplying water for domestic or small community requirements, but for permanent irrigation of large expanse of arid lands, larger projects are needed. This is exactly what "Bhagirath" had attempted to do. He had tightened his belt to release the water from the reservoir trapped in the Himalaya and succeeded in spreading it over a large area in the from of the "Ganga". With the arrangement of adequate water supply, the entire area of influence of the river, thus, turned into tract of beauty and prosperity. Though the so called intelligent and powerful leaders are aware of problems and needs of the society, but while looking for solutions, they regard this world as merely a grocery-shop decorated with various types of merchandise, where all can be set right simply by rearrangement and replacements of undesirables with desirables. Generally, this is the direction of present reform-movements. Attempts are being made to find some such new gases which could neutralise atmospheric pollution. Solution to food deficiency is being sought in mass production of
fertilizers for providing a tenfold yield in crops. It is surprising why none is thinking of the roots of the problems which is essential for taking care of growing needs, discontentment and discord. Treatment of a superficial wound is not difficult but when it is required to treat "blood cancer", the real problem arises. Everyone faces numerous physical, mental, financial and family problems appearing each day in newer and newer shades. To cope up with these problems, one has to develop the analytical capability to such a level which can seek and adopt adequate measures in a routine matter like daily discarding litter each day of trash, waste materials from the house. As a matter of fact, thinking pattern, character and behaviour of man has gone totally haywire. In a state bordering on insanity, he has begun to act irresponsibly and thereby creating problems for his own self as well as for others. The task is, therefore, two fold. The damage already done has to be rectified, whereas at the same time the apprehended tendency of madness in mankind is to be curbed. Man should now plan to take care of problems and prepare himself to face them. Despair will only make him susceptible to terrorising apprehensions. Here, this is to be kept in mind that generally people are concerned about their personal problems only, whereas problems of this magnitude are to be faced with cooperative efforts. When there are floods or epidemics, nothing short of public
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Problems of today
cooperation works. Scriptures have referred to such mass movements of the past as "Dawn of the Golden Age (Yug Parivartan)" or "Incarnation of Divinity". Great revivals of this magnitude are also called Great-revolutions (Mahakranti). Revolutions emerge as a struggle against undesirable elements. On the other hand, Great-Revolution (Maha Kranti) necessitate much foresight for future plans. The struggle against injustice continues along with formulation of plans and their implementation for establishing the new order. Presently, great changes are taking place in the invisible world for establishing a New World Order. We may regard these changes as precursor of the Happy and Prosperous Twenty First Century. Although apparently utopian, the task of bringing in a total transformation in the mass-thinking of six hundred crores (six thousand million) of humanity inhabiting vast and widely separated areas of the world in conformity with desirable objectives, should not be considered as impossible. There had been many such revivals in the past. When mankind falls into despair, it is invigorated by infusion of new courage. On such occasions in the past, tempestuous winds of change have blown and succeeded in ushering in the golden glow of the rising sun, by dispersing dark clouds of adversities. On full moon night, when the high tides approach their maximum intensity, it appears as though they are ultimately going to succeed in emptying the entire ocean in space. This is only a small exhibition of nature's energy. In his
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wildest imaginations, man can not think of such stupendous feats which are only a child's play for forces of nature. It is well known that with its power, nature is ever busy in casually creating and destroying enormous stars and planets in the universe. Believers in existence and omnipotence of the Creator should not have the least doubt, that He can wipe out all that is undesireable and unethical, irrespective of dimensions. Though man has exhibited his meanness in creating utter chaos and disorder, the founder of this beautiful planet will not permit him to make it desolate by machinations of evil schemers. No doubt, the devilish acts of the wicked create terror. Nevertheless, the forces of divinity entrusted with protection of the universe and maintenance of natural equilibrium in the creation are also not totally inactive. Waves of death are creating havoc and claiming millions of lives every moment. Nevertheless, the God of creation has been accepting the challenge and always more persons have taken birth than those who lost lives. Had it not been so, there would have been a discontinuity in the growth of living beings and gradually all species would have become extinct. However, this has not happened. All living beings continue to perpetuate their species. Such realities are reassuring that inspite of worst circumstances creating despair and despondency none of the thinkers should lose heart, No one should presume that corrupt thinking and corrupt action are intrinsic human behav-
iour. Periodically, mankind has been experiencing revolutionary changes in mass behaviour which brought in a new spring with sprouting of new leaves, new buds and newer fruits and flowers all around. The creativity of superhuman, god-men, philosophers and reformers is comparable to that of monsoons which appears to take a pledge to grow numerous new types of vegetation, species of plants and biological creatures. In not too far a future, a new generation of creative intellectuals is going to emerge within this multitude of humanity which will dwarf the achievements of all saints, reformers and martyrs known till now.
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APPEARANCE OF GOD-MEN
Who will bring about so many changes? How will it happen? What will be the medium for transformation of hell into heaven? How will it be possible to such puzzling questions cross the mind. It is quite natural, since the task appears impossible like attempting to level the mountains and filling the sea. However, believers in the omnipotence of God have no reason to doubt. In the darkest of dark night, when it is difficult even to see one's won hand, does one doubt that soon there is going to be dawn followed by day and thereafter a noon with a blazing sun? This is how something apparently impossible becomes possible. When we witness numerous such miracles of nature each day why should we underestimate its capacity to change the undesirable circumstances into favourable one's? Do we not see a microscopic human sperm change into a lively child within a few days and then into a healthy adult thereafter ? Nature's infinite capacity to bring about any utilitarian change should never be disbelieved. This world has seen many changes of time for good and bad. A revival of the Golden Age of Humanity (Sat Yug) is in accordance with the laws of nature. Whereas, man can not create even an ant, God is ever busy in creating
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innumerable living species of various size, shape and nature on this very planet. At least devout persons have no reason to overlook this reality. The forthcoming dawn of Golden Age is not being planned by some particular individual. It is the determined will of the Almighty. Nature has begun to create an appropriate atmosphere for the change. Lucky are those, who will see this great transformation in their life time. Those who accept the challenge of time and make their contribution to the great cause will get the same credit which Angad, Hanuman, Nal-Neel etc. did. These days, an invisible supernova is gradually enveloping the earth. The powerful energy-field of this super star will energise the empathic capacity of persons with sentient consciousness. Their inner consciousness will force them to plunge into action in the great scheme of establishing a new world order. Outwardly, community of these god-men may appear to belong to the lower strata of society (bears and apes had participated with Lord Rama in his holy war against the demon, Ravana), But they will perform stupendous feats capable of changing impossiblities into possibilities. Believers know that with grace of God, no task in this world remains impossible. When working for a divine cause, intellectuals as well as common men are bestowed with tremendous supernatural power and energy. To quote some instances from the great epic Ramayana-an old vulture like Jatayu had suddenly gathered enough courage to confront Ravana who
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was the greatest enough courage to confront Ravana who was the greatest warrior of his time. Similarly, a squirrel was inspired in its faith, to contribute its little might in bridging the ocean for lord Rama. The poorest of the poor, Shabri was so much moved by the arrival of lord Rama to her hut that she thought it fit to offer her petty collection of berries to Him. Did poor Sudama hesitate while offering his handful of rice to Lord Krishna as a gift? When divinity needs human contribution, its invisible field of inspiration pervading entire universe makes kings like Harish-chandra sell their kingdoms, their children, wives and even their ownself. When inspired by God, one can not restrain from contributing one's best to the ideals. The foregoing are only a few instances of the invisible energy field of The Great Architect (Mahakal). It is not visible to human eye, but does not permit an individual with sentient consciousness to sleep in the crucial hour of need. They are unable to contain themselves from doing something noteworthy. A group of such individuals is soon going to assemble and wage a decisive war against the undesirable elements. They will succeed in erecting the marvellous super-structure of the New world order which the entire human community will watch with awe and admiration. The socio-economic environment now plunging down in the dark abyss of degradation will soon soar to great heights like a satellite fired from a launching pad and begin to encircle the earth in a pre-determined orbit.
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The beginning of this era will be harbinger of two messages; one-purify yourself and two-promote the ideals. The two pronged activities of destruction and creation will now gain great momentum, moving forward with a great force toppling irrelevant hillocks of undesirable elements and filling deep rifts of incongruities in the society. In the resultant social structure which will be marked by equality for all human beings, it will be possible to sow the seeds of fragrant love, happiness and prosperity for the entire humanity. Enlightenment of this era (Yug Chetna) will descend on the earth (like the appearance of the Ganga) and envelop the entire planet with an incredible speed (like incarnation of Matsya-Avatar). Its field of action will be unlimited. Its area influence will include the entire expanse of land, water and space. What will ultimately happen? There is a straight answer; transformation in human thought-process; emergence of empathy and fellow feeling filled with compassion in each human soul, manifestation of self restraint, mental and physical discipline in each human being and idealistic enthusiasm and bravery in action and behaviour. Just this much of reform will be sufficient to alleviate the present sufferings of humanity. With it, the demonic problems and adversities tormenting the entire humanity (like Sursa, Singhika, Tadika and Shoorpankha) will gradually disappear. Besides, the divine powers of creation, evolution and transformation are determined to provide a bet-
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ter environment to present day humanity than was available even in the Golden Age of the past (Sat Yug). Being equipped with greater resources and intellectual capacity, mankind today deserves better. Keeping in view the needs of the modern world, Goddess Durga (reconstructing power of God) has not only agreed to appear again in a new form, but is also eager to so. For the first time in human memory, God-men will co-ordinate to utilize their powers jointly for the common good. In the past, though engaged in pursuits of knowledge, creativity and faith, they remained indifferent to the relevance of concerted efforts suitable to requirements of the modern society. They also did not pay much attention to freely spreading of superior knowledge in the areas of their influence. Now they have taken a decision to make amends for the mistakes of the past and are planning to instil spiritually in each and every individual having courage. It appears that the universal super-consciousness (Vishwa Chetna) has taken a stock of all facts in totality which are necessary for establishment of The New World order and has incorporated them in the blueprint of its grand scheme. The indications are perceptible everywhere. The glow of appearing dawn can be seen all around. There is a singular ultrasonic call being given by nature-change, change, change, change for the better; change everything. This would be the nature of time and destiny in the coming days. Men with least trace of compassion and sym-
pathy alive in their soul will respond and act in conformity with this call. The transformation will begin from one's ownself, Thereafter, successively changing the family and neighbourhood, it will ultimately envelop the society. In this way, the entire humanity will become aware and energised by the New World Order of THE GREAT ARCHITECT.
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WISDOM VERSUS EDUCATION
To earn a living, one needs numerous commodities. A variety of resources are to be gathered. Everyday problems are to be solved. But priority needs to be given to only one element-breathing should continue, life should be sustained. If this much is not done death becomes imminent. How long can one live in such a suffocating environment? It appears man, society and the world as a whole are confronted with numerous problems, solutions of which are a challenge to humanity. Not a ray of hope is in sight in the darkness of despair. Neither advancements of science nor super intelligence of thinkers have succeeded in finding solutions to these problems. Increase in crime rates, population explosion, fast deteriorating physical and mental health of common man, wide-spread pollution, poverty, illiteracy and many such incongruities have become perpetual causes of worry and sufferings for the mankind. The political field, too, is disappointing. Here, there is an undisguised anarchy. During Golden Age of the Past (Sat Yug), messengers and high priests of religion had made their presence felt as the backbone of the society. Today, castes and exterior appearance are being praised and applauded. Duties have been pushed back in the background behind rights, which are being stressed
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and outbid. Numerous such disorders have been spoiling our entire social fabric. We are aware of the incongruities of the society but are totally perplexed. Who is going to mitigate these problems and how? It has to be repeatedly stressed and propagated that the reason for all disorders gripping the society is derangement of human consciousness which has become totally entangled in self illusion and bewilderment. Only one dictum is to be followed. Thoughts, actions, and behaviour must not belie human dignity. How then is it possible to contain narrow selfishness? Cooperation and generosity should be deeply engrained in each and every human thought and it should prominently reflect in behaviour. Immediate gains should cease to get priority on farsighted prudence. Independent thinking should take the place of hard-line obstinacy. With adaptation of such a level of balanced thinking, man is capable of transforming destruction into development or chaos into order, even with his present state of competence, resources and expertise. Very soon, divinity is going to shower its grace of brilliance and super-intelligence in abundance, as a consequence of which man will begin to find true solutions to the problems and take correct steps in right directions. When righteousness and divinity begins to descend and dominate human personality, there is no reason to doubt about the emergence of a new atmosphere of heavenly peace and prosperity on its planet which will be comparable to the ancient Golden Age (Sat-Yug).
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The relationship between education and wisdom may be explained with the help of a parable. 'Vidya' (Wisdom) and Education (Shiksha) were a princess and her maid servant respectively in some kingdom. In outer appearance, they were indistinguishable. Once they went for a picnic in the forest, and decided to bathe in a pond. Before entering the water, they left their clothes on the bank. 'Shiksha' finished her bath earlier and grabbed the opportunity to impersonate the princess by wearing her clothes. 'Shiksha' went straight to the palace and informed that the princess had died and had become a witch. With the result, that she now hides in any nook or corner and attacks persons known to her. She was able to convince people that she was speaking the truth. The plot was a success. Since then the naked princess was living clandestine existence, hiding and wandering in the forests to safeguard her modesty. Wisdom ('Vidya') is believed to be 'Amritvarshini', the deity which showers nectar whereas education ('Shiksha') merely provides bread and butter (Annapoorna). The main objective of institutional education is to enhance the expertise for better earning capacity. Wisdom has altogether a different objective and with it the outcome is different. It builds and stimulates personality, activates talents and establishes a link between perspective and high ideals. It makes the inner self fully responsive to feelings of compassion and generosity. Unfortunately, these days, significance of acquiring wisdom which is a pana-
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cea for all the present evils is not understood. It is being considered irrelevant, unwanted and even outmoded in modern context. This is in fact the basic cause for degradation and criminal tendency in human behaviour. This downfall in character, as expected, has led to destructive tendencies throughout the world. The great change is going to take place through resurrection of wisdom only. A forceful and large scale propagation of wisdom is necessary for dispersing the darkness of ignorance on account of which mankind is unable to see objects and events in their true perspective and does not know how, from whom and what type of cooperation is needed for happiness and prosperity. In the past the situation was different. Then every one appreciated the significance of literacy and the teachers (purohits) and the taught had worked out a mutually beneficial arrangement. The enlightened teachers (Brahmans) followed strict austerity because of which the token honorarium (Dana-dakhshina) offered to them by the guardians of the students was sufficient for their thrifty and modest living. In those days, it was not felt necessary to formulate special projects or make detailed arrangements for giving education or spreading literacy. Responsibility for imparting the rejuvenating wisdom (Sanjeevani Vidya) was given to the wise men (Manishis) of the level of "Rishi". For this purpose, deserving candidates were invited by them to their "Ashrams", "Gurukuls" and "Aranyakas". In this way,
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the students received specialised trainings necessary for their development in an appropriate environment. For providing primary level education to the children, in each village, small and big devalaya (Worship-cum-teaching centres) used to function. In the pious environment of these temples, students completed their education. I those days, education was not directly related to livelihood. To earn a living, people depended on farming, cottage industries, commerce and other such expertise. Some depended for their living on craftsmanship. Younger generation did not find any difficulty in earning livelihood according to their needs and efficiency. The age of wisdom or super-wisdom (Pragya) is approaching fast like a tornado. Its objectives are pre-defined. It aims at vigorously stimulating each mind to think afresh. In the coming days old concepts and beliefs, howsoever traditional and accustomed, will be totally discarded. Instead, far-sighted prudence will prevail in human thinking all around which will, in fact, become the guiding principle for the acceptance of propriety throughout the world. The super-structure of 'The New World Order' will be erected on the two pillars of prudence and propriety. In view of the direct need of the changing environment, every one will adopt these virtues willingly, inspite of their having been newly implanted.
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Vedmurti Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya: A brief Introduction
Born in village, Anwalkheda near Agra in 1991, took unusual interest i spiritual devotion and social service right fro childhood. Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya solemnized Yagyopavit (sacred thread) ceremony and initiated in Gayatri Mantra (sacred vedic hymn). At the age of fifteen his Guru (initiator), a great saint of the Himalayas appeared in his vision during worship in astral form. At his instance performed twenty-four Gayatri Mahapurshcharan (a Daily routine of spiritual worship which has to be completed within a fixed time) of twenty-four lac each; visited the Himalayas four times for higher spiritual attainment, took active part in freedom movement. Visited shri Aurobind Ashram, Maharshi Raman Ashram, Shantiniketan; live with Mahatma Gandhi in Sabarmati Ashram. Was sentenced to jail thrice. Lived in jail with Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, Smt. Swarooparani Nehru (mother of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru), Rafi Ahmad Kidwai, Dr. Keskar, etc. fellow-prisoners nicknamed him as 'Matta' on account of his dedication, devotion. Freedom fighter pension granted by the Government gracefully declined. Government, later, deputed its representative officer who presented a tamra-pattra (copper plate
for documentation) and honoured him for services as a freedom fighter. Formulated and materialised Yug Nirman Yojna (a programme for the resurgence of the individual, family, society and the man at large). Established Gayatri Parivar (fraternity) an organization of devoted, cultured people which has now a member-ship of about thirty lac. Akhand-jyoti magazine (without any advertisement) is being published for the last fifty years. Along with its allied magazines in other languages, it is being subscribed by more than six lac persons. Helped and obliged innumerable persons in getting rid of worldly difficulties pain and sufferings and advancing them on moral, righteous, spiritual path. Shantikunj Ashram has been developed as a Gangotri (the source of holy river Ganga) of new era, where more than ten million devotees from India and abroad have been initiated in specific spiritual practice during the transitional (Yug-sandhi) period. Developed spirituality as a science and art of living. Established Brahmavarchas Research Institute, Hardwar for coordination of science with spirituality. Thousands of books have been written and published on spiritual training, family welfare, social resuscitation, moral education and various other aspects of life. Translated and published all the four Vedas, 108 Upnishads, 20 Smritis, 6 Darshans, important Purans to make them easy comprehensible and available.
Besides Gayatri Tapobhumi, Mathura, Shantikunj and Brahmavarchas Research Institute Hardwar more than three thousand centres have been established for spiritual awakening. Generated mighty power by Sookshmikaran Sadhana (high level spiritual process for transforming the physical form into astral one) and ultimately abandoned physical body on Gayatri Jayanti (2nd June 1990) in pursuance of the commandment of mahakal (Almighty God) to accelerate the process of reviving the Golden Age in the twenty-first century by his astral and causal body. The divine mother Mata Bhagwatidevi Sharama his lifelong partner who lived with him like one soul in two physical bodies lives in Shantikunj and manages his great world-wide organization.
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