Video #266: On Gotwits and Sarcophagi – The Travel Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.07

In this conversation, Vajin shares his transformative experiences during his travels to Egypt and India, focusing on the profound connections he made with ancient sites, the power of meditation, and the spiritual lessons learned through personal encounters. He emphasizes the importance of being present, the weight of the heart in moral decisions, and the ability to connect with others through love and awareness. The discussion also touches on the significance of loss and how it can lead to deeper insights and growth. 

Takeaways:

  • Vajin felt a strong calling to visit the pyramids in Egypt, which he discovered was geographically significant on his journey.
  • Meditation at the pyramids allowed Vajin to connect deeply with the ancient site and its mysteries.
  • The Egyptian belief in the heart’s weight during judgment reflects a timeless moral lesson about living a light-hearted life.
  • Experiencing art in museums can create a sense of time travel, connecting us with the creators of the past.
  • Being fully present in the moment can unlock profound experiences and insights.
  • Spiritual connections can occur in everyday interactions, revealing deeper truths about ourselves and others.
  • Loss can lead to unexpected blessings and insights about our attachments to material possessions.
  • Every situation in life has a unique solution that can lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
  • The interconnectedness of all lives creates a tapestry of experiences that shape our journeys.
  • Embracing small losses throughout life can prepare us for the ultimate transition of death.

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

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

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

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

Week 200: I Love Singing

Songs:

– Hasiya Hasiya Tomar Charane
– Smiling and Smiling
– Hai Jiban Taru Keman Kare
– Alas, How Has My Life Become Dry?

Enjoy singing along with the audio recordings. These songs are composed by Sri Chinmoy and performed by his disciple Purnakama. Please click the links below to listen to or download the audio and song scores:

 

Lyrics:

1. Hasiya Hasiya Tomar Charane


Hasiya hasiya tomar charane
Amar amire rakhibo

Translation:

Smiling and smiling,
At Your Feet I shall place
My ego-‘i’.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


2. Smiling and Smiling

Smiling and smiling,
At Your Feet I shall place
My ego-‘i’.
Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


3. Hai Jiban Taru Keman Kare

Hai jiban taru keman kare
Nirash halo

Translation:

Alas, how has my life
Become dry?
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


4. Alas, How Has My Life Become Dry?

Alas, how has my life
Become dry?
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre

Video #263: Concert in Plovdiv – Bhoiravi & Dolores

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

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

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

Week 199: I Love Singing

Songs:

– Asi Nai Ami Ei Dharanite
– I Have Not Come into this World Only to Cry
– Atiter Sathe Mitali Karite
– With the Past

Enjoy singing along with the audio recordings. These songs are composed by Sri Chinmoy and performed by his disciple Purnakama. Please click the links below to listen to or download the audio and song scores:

 

Lyrics:

1. Asi Nai Ami Ei Dharanite

Asi nai ami ei dharanite
Kandite kebal kandite
Esechi hethai amar amire
Prabhur charane sampite

Translation:

I have not come into this world
Only to cry and cry.
Into the world I came
To place my little ego-‘i’At my Lord’s Feet.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


2. I Have Not Come into this World Only to Cry

I have not come into this world
Only to cry and cry.
Into the world I came
To place my little ego-‘i’At my Lord’s Feet.
Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


3. Atiter Sathe Mitali Karite

Atiter sathe mitali karite
Chahibona ami ar

Translation:

With the past I shall not
Make friends any more.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


4. With the Past

With the past I shall not
Make friends any more.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre

Video #261: TV Interview – Upcoming 26th Sri Chinmoy Marathon, Skopje

In this TV interview, the upcoming 26th Sri Chinmoy Marathon is celebrated as the longest-running marathon in Macedonia. Set in Skopje City Park on a scenic 1,739-meter loop, the event stands out with its frequent refreshment stations and has drawn a record 122 participants from 15 countries this year. Welcoming runners of all levels, including beginners, the marathon embodies the spirit of self-transcendence while honoring top finishers with well-deserved recognition.

Registration is open at srichinmoyraces.mk.

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

Week 198: I Love Singing

Songs:

– Kandte Ami Chahi Prabhu
– I Wish to Cry, Lord
– Tomar Bijoy Gahite Dharai
– To Sing Your Victory-Song

Enjoy singing along with the audio recordings. These songs are composed by Sri Chinmoy and performed by his disciple Purnakama. Please click the links below to listen to or download the audio and song scores:

 

Lyrics:

1. Kandte Ami Chahi Prabhu

Kandte ami chahi prabhu
Haste chahina

Translation:

I wish to cry, Lord.
I do not want to smile.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


2. I Wish to Cry, Lord

I wish to cry, Lord.
I do not want to smile.
Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


3. Tomar Bijoy Gahite Dharai

Tomar bijoy gahite dharai
Asiyachi ami jani

Translation:

To sing Your Victory-Song,
Into the world I came.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


4. To Sing Your Victory-Song

To sing Your Victory-Song,
Into the world I came.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre