Category: Sri Chinmoy Centre Activity

Video #269: Love People And Use Things – The Money Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.09

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In this episode of the Acceptance of Life podcast, hosts Abhinabha and Vajin delve into the multifaceted topic of money, exploring its nature, value, and the stories we tell about it. They discuss the spiritual and earthly perspectives on money, the evolution from barter to currency, and the impact of money on happiness and security. The conversation highlights the measurement problem, emphasizing that while money is a representation of value, it often oversimplifies the complexities of life. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to reflect on what truly matters beyond monetary wealth. 

In this conversation, the speakers explore the complex relationship between wealth, happiness, and personal fulfillment. They discuss the illusion that more money equates to greater happiness, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s desires and aspirations. The conversation delves into the distinction between living a desire-driven life versus an aspiration-driven life, using analogies such as the crocodile to illustrate the dangers of unchecked desires. They also touch on the abundance versus scarcity mindset, highlighting how one’s beliefs about wealth can shape their reality. Ultimately, the discussion concludes with the idea that while wealth can provide opportunities, it also comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. 

Abhinabha and Vajin explore the intricate relationship between wealth, mindset, and spiritual fulfillment. They discuss the importance of trusting the universe, shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, and the role of self-giving in achieving true happiness. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of intention and integrity in earning money, and how focusing on love and connection can lead to a more meaningful life. Ultimately, they reflect on the cosmic game of life, encouraging listeners to pay attention to their experiences and learn from them.

Takeaways

  • Money can be seen from both spiritual and earthly perspectives.
  • Householders balance family responsibilities with spiritual life.
  • Money is inherently worthless without the stories we tell about it.
  • The value of money is based on societal trust and acceptance.
  • Money is a supernatural construct, not found in nature.
  • Transactions in money are poor representations of real-life experiences.
  • Happiness can increase with income up to a certain point.
  • Focusing solely on money can lead to oversimplification of life.
  • The measurement problem can distort our understanding of success.
  • True happiness comes from understanding what we truly want in life. 
  • Falling back into the game of wealth can be easy.
  • Reality often doesn’t match our idealised expectations.
  • Happiness is not solely dependent on external circumstances.
  • Desire can lead to suffering, as per spiritual teachings.
  • The desire life can be likened to keeping a pet crocodile.
  • Living with fears can reduce their power over us.
  • People often sacrifice their time for jobs they dislike.
  • Crisis can be a catalyst for positive change.
  • Your mindset shapes your experience of reality.
  • Wealth requires constant management to maintain its value. Trust in the universe to provide for you.
  • Shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.
  • Money is a tool to lead a fulfilling life.
  • Self-giving leads to true happiness and fulfillment.
  • Intention matters in how we earn our living.
  • Love people and use things, not the other way around.
  • You can only enjoy one beautiful experience at a time.
  • Check in with your conscience regularly.
  • The universe is friendly and supportive of your success.
  • Pay attention to the lessons life offers you.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

News #16: Czech Disciples of Sri Chinmoy Celebrate International Day of Happiness with 27,000 Special Bookmarks

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To honor the U.N. International Day of Happiness, Sri Chinmoy’s disciples in the Czech Republic have printed 27,000 special-edition bookmarks featuring his uplifting poems on happiness! These beautifully designed bookmarks are being shared far and wide to inspire people.  

Here’s how they’re reaching the world:

  • 16,500 bookmarks are being distributed at well-known Czech bookstores, given to customers at checkout.  
  • 6,000 bookmarks are being shared through businesses such as Madal Bal, Everest Ayurveda, Zdravy den, Pranaya, and Antarik.  
  • The remaining bookmarks are finding their way to people at book fairs, meditation classes, and street events—spreading joy everywhere!  

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people appreciating these small yet powerful reminders of happiness. What a beautiful way to share inspiration! 

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #268: Gayatri Mantra – Performed by Arthada & Friends

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This recording of the Gayatri Mantra set to music by Sri Chinmoy, is arranged and performed by the music ensemble Arthada & Friends and guest singers from the Vienna and Budapest Sri Chinmoy Centres.

Sri Chinmoy’s comments on the ancient Gayatri Mantra:

Gayatri
The sacred mantra from the Rig Veda addressed to the sun.
If the seeker soulfully recites the Gayatri mantra in the morning and the evening, illumination is bound to take place in the seeker’s confusion-mind infinitely sooner than he would ever expect.

I would be very happy if you could learn the tune that I have set to the Gayatri Mantra. If you can sing it most soulfully, it will be as good as repeating the mantra one hundred times. This is the difference between reciting and singing. While we are singing, our entire being is elevated and transported into the highest plane of consciousness. When we recite something soulfully, sometimes we may get dynamic power; sometimes we may get vital power, uncontrolled vital power. But if we sing a song soulfully, immediately psychic power comes. Psychic power comes to the fore and makes us swim in the sea of Light and Delight. If we are singing soulfully, this is more important than to be technically correct. When I sing, many times I make mistakes. But God does not care about my technique. He cares for my soulful qualities. So when you learn the Gayatri Mantra, please do not worry that you cannot sing it like a professional singer. As long as it comes from your heart, God will be really pleased.

Om bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ
tát savitúr váreṇyaṃ
bhárgo devásya dhīmahi
dhíyo yó naḥ prachodáyāt

Translation: 
We meditate on the adorable glory of the effulgent sun, the Creator. May He illumine and guide our mind and intellect.

The Gayatri Mantra is the most hallowed mantra of the Vedas. It is the mother of all the mantras. Mantra means incantation. A mantra can be a one-syllable word or a few words, a sentence or a few sentences. The Gayatri Mantra can offer to the sincere seeker the light of the Infinite, the delight of the Eternal and the life of the Immortal.
…
A seeker of the infinite Truth must meditate on the Gayatri Mantra. The result that he will get is incalculable.
…
Subtle is the path of Moksha — Liberation. Hard is the path of liberation. Long is the path of liberation. But a genuine seeker can and does reach the end solely by meditating on the Gayatri. When one is freed from the fetters of ignorance, one grows into the supernal glory of the Transcendental Self. Liberation can be achieved, must be achieved, while the seeker’s soul is in the body. To fail to realise God on earth is to swim in the sea of ignorance with two more swimmers: ignorant birth and shameless death. Liberation attained, the bonds of grief, destroyed. If not, like the Buddha we have to proclaim, “This fleeting world is the abode of sorrow.

The Gayatri is the divine magnetic needle. The magnetic needle points to the north; hence the ship does not lose its direction. The Gayatri always points to the transcendental height of the Supreme; hence the seeker does not miss his Goal: Existence, Consciousness, Bliss.

Sources:
Sri Chinmoy, The core of India’s Light, part 3, Agni Press, 1992
Sri Chinmoy, Sri Chinmoy speaks, part 6, Agni Press, 1976
Sri Chinmoy, AUM — Vol. 7, No.12, July 27, 1972, AUM Centre Press, 1972

For more information visit the official website: https://www.srichinmoylibrary.com/
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #15 – Blue Flower Group Concert in Huehuetenango, Guatemala

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On March 4, the Blue Flower Group performed in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Their beautiful music filled the air, creating a memorable experience for the audience.

A local influencer with 21,000+ followers live-streamed the concert, and over 1,600 people watched online.

Watch the full concert here: Video Link

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

News #14: Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race – Prospect Park, Brooklyn

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On March 9, nearly 300 runners gathered in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, to take on the 5K & 7-Mile races. Despite the chilly weather, the sun was shining, and the energy was high as participants pushed through the course with determination and enthusiasm.

The event brought together runners of all levels, from seasoned athletes to those looking to challenge themselves in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere. The scenic route through the park made for a memorable race, and the cheers from spectators added to the excitement.

Here are the links into

A big congratulations to all the runners who braved the cold and gave their best effort! Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next race.

For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #265: Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race – Past and Present

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This video takes you on a journey through the world’s longest certified footrace, the Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race. Featuring rare footage from 2006 and 2007, when Sri Chinmoy personally visited the race, as well as highlights from the 2024 edition, it captures the spirit of endurance, perseverance, and self-transcendence.

With interviews, race moments, and inspiring music, this video offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of this extraordinary event.

  • Video Footage by: Tejvan (2024), Utpal (Suprabha interview), Mridanga (2006/2007)
  • Photos by: Pulak, Maral, Dhanu, Piyasi & Sri Chinmoy Centre Galleries
  • Music by: Parichayaka

To find out more, visit the official website: www.3100.srichinmoyraces.org. 

For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #264: The Progress-Based Lifestyle | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.06

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In this episode, Abhinabha and Vajin explore the profound differences between success and progress, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from inner growth rather than external achievements. They discuss cultural perceptions of success, the illusion of security it provides, and the importance of embracing uncertainty. Personal anecdotes highlight resilience in the face of loss and the valuable lessons learned from failure. The conversation also touches on the significance of competition, the philosophy of Gaman – the Japanese notion to endure suffering with dignity – and the importance of aligning your values with your pursuits. They explore the themes of competition, community, and personal growth through the lens of running and life experiences. They discuss how competition can be a source of motivation and self-improvement, the importance of self-compassion, and the need to see the divine in oneself and others. The conversation also delves into the concept of the Gen-Z term ‘sigma male’ as a new paradigm of success, emphasizing authenticity over traditional measures of achievement. Practical steps for living a progress-based life are outlined, including the power of gratitude and the importance of trusting one’s intuition.

Takeaways:

  • Success is often a static goal, while progress is a dynamic journey.  
  • Cultural narratives shape our understanding of success and happiness.  
  • True security cannot be found in material wealth or fame.  
  • Experiencing loss can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.  
  • Failure provides valuable feedback for future success.  
  • Embracing uncertainty is essential for a fulfilling life.  
  • The journey of self-discovery is more important than the destination.  
  • Inner values should guide our pursuits, not societal expectations.  
  • Competition can be a tool for personal growth rather than ego fulfillment.  
  • Practicing Gaman helps endure challenges with dignity and grace. 
  • Competition can motivate us to bring out our best.  
  • Running teaches us about community and shared challenges.  
  • Life is fundamentally a cooperative endeavor.  
  • Self-compassion is crucial for personal growth.  
  • Seeing the divine in ourselves fosters self-respect.  
  • Gratitude shifts our focus from lack to abundance.  
  • Intuition is the voice of our higher self.  
  • Living authentically leads to deeper connections.  
  • We often treat ourselves worse than we treat others.  
  • Choosing a friendly universe fosters a positive mindset.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #263: Concert in Plovdiv – Bhoiravi & Dolores

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Experience a soulful musical journey from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, on February 4, 2025. Violinist Bhoiravi and pianist Dolores offer a deeply meditative and uplifting performance, weaving melodies that awaken the heart and elevate the spirit. Let the music carry you to a place of peace, inspiration, and inner light.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

News #13. Sri Chinmoy Culture-Light Award Presented to Roberta Flack

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Roberta Flack has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that transcends music. A Grammy-winning artist and spiritual seeker, she was known in the Sri Chinmoy community as Addwitiya, meaning “matchless” or “second to none.” With a voice that defied genres, she infused songs like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face with rare depth and soul, making them truly timeless.

February 16, 2025 – In recognition of her profound contributions to music and her ability to inspire millions, Flack was honored with the Sri Chinmoy Culture-Light Award on her 88th birthday in a special ceremony at her New York residence. This prestigious award celebrates those who illuminate the human spirit through their work, and Flack’s lifelong dedication to uplifting humanity through song made her a most deserving recipient.

A classically trained musician, she was the first artist to win back-to-back Grammys for Record of the Year, using her extraordinary talent to express deeply felt messages that continue to resonate across generations. Her music invited listeners to explore their inner worlds while embracing life’s beauty. Reflecting on her journey, she once shared, “I want to keep my feet on the ground and let my spirit soar.” This powerful sentiment was later set to music by Sri Chinmoy, the spiritual leader, composer, and humanitarian after whom the award is named.

The award, directed by Ranjana Ghose, has previously honored luminaries such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, President Mikhail Gorbachev, and composer Philip Glass. Its crystal design bears an etching of Sri Chinmoy’s world-harmony painting, Unity, adorned with his signature peace-bird drawings—symbols of the soul’s boundless journey. Alongside the award, Flack was presented with a certificate featuring a poem by Sri Chinmoy, capturing the essence of her artistic vision and life’s work:

God never encouraged me
To learn the world-denial-song.
On the contrary,
He inspired, encouraged
And blessed me
To sing the world-acceptance-song
And dance the world-transformation-dance.
– Sri Chinmoy

The ceremony also included a heartfelt birthday celebration for Roberta Flack, to whom the community extended warm wishes. A special slideshow, created by Vyakulata and Gesiane, beautifully highlighted the occasion.

With this recognition, Roberta Flack joins a distinguished list of honorees whose creativity and dedication continue to inspire and uplift the world. Her music remains a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the power of song to unite hearts and transcend boundaries.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #262: Reincarnation – The Journey of the Soul | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep. 05

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In this episode of the Acceptance of Life podcast hosts Abhinabha and Vajin delve into the profound topic of reincarnation, exploring its implications on the journey of the soul. They discuss scientific perspectives, childhood memories of past lives, and the skepticism surrounding reincarnation. The conversation evolves into the purpose of existence, the evolution of consciousness, and the concept of a cosmic game that gives meaning to life. Through engaging anecdotes and philosophical insights, they invite listeners to reflect on the nature of existence and the journey of the soul. Abhinabha and Vajin further explore the concept of the cosmic game, discussing the nature of time, the balance of good and evil, and the importance of optimal difficulty in life’s challenges. They delve into the significance of stories in reflecting the cosmic game, the journey of reincarnation, and the nature of consciousness. The discussion also touches on panpsychism, the courage to incarnate, and the role of spiritual masters in guiding individuals towards enlightenment. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of finding meaning despite of suffering and the ongoing journey of awakening. Takeaways:

  • Reincarnation is a widely accepted concept in spirituality.
  • Children often have detailed memories of past lives.
  • Scientific research has documented cases of verified past life memories.
  • The soul’s journey involves experiencing itself through various forms of existence.
  • Skepticism towards reincarnation from religious beliefs.
  • The journey of the soul is to know itself fully in the material world.
  • The evolution of consciousness progresses through different life forms.
  • The cosmic game provides purpose and meaning to existence.
  • Suffering in life must have a worthwhile purpose in the cosmic game.
  • The hard problem of consciousness remains a significant philosophical question.
  • The universe has an infinite timeline for exploration.
  • Optimal difficulty in life enhances engagement and growth.
  • The balance of good and evil is essential for a meaningful existence.
  • Human stories often reflect the cosmic game of good versus evil.
  • The divine hides from us to make the game of life challenging.
  • Consciousness exists in all spheres of the universe.
  • Reincarnation allows for continuous spiritual growth across lifetimes.
  • Spiritual masters provide guidance for navigating life’s challenges.
  • Finding meaning in suffering can transform our experiences.
  • The journey of awakening is ongoing and requires active participation.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org