Shri Shirdi Sai Speaks - 5th Sept/ Lalbaugcha Raja 2011 in Mumbai , Maharashtra -India

Om Sai Ram

Lalbaugcha Raja 2011 in Mumbai , Maharashtra - India

History of Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav mandal

The Mandal, formerly known as 'Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Lalbaug' was founded in the year 1928, because of a vow (Navas) for construction of the present Lalbaug Market at its existing place. The market place at Peru Chawl was shut down in 1932. Hence, the fishermen and vendors who used to sit in the open place vowed to Ganesha for permanent place for their market. With the consistent efforts and support of the then local Councillor-Late Shri. Kuwarji Jethabhai Shah, Dr. V. B. Korgaonkar, Shri. Nakhawa Kokam Mama, Bhausaheb Shinde, Dr. U. A. Rao and the local residents, the landlord Rajabai Tayyabali agreed to give a plot for construction of a market. As fulfillment of their wish, the fisherman and the traders established the Ganesh Idol on 12 September 1934. The idol was dressed in the customary fashion of fisherman. Since that day onwards, this Lord Ganesh has become popular as it fulfills the wishes of devotees. The Mandal was formed in the era when the freedom struggle was at its peak.

Due to the communal riots in 1946, orders were issued to change the route of this Ganesh Immersion Procession. But, the then office-bearers of the Mandal refused to change the route and, after 21 days, the procession was taken by the same route under the supervision of then Volunteers Pandurang alias Babu Sayle, M. S. Pawar and Dattaram Joshi. After independence, the agenda of the Mandal was modified and accordingly the Mandal decided to contribute in uplift of the Country. The Mandal donated its balance amount to the Kasturba Fund, the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Fund in 1947 and to Bihar Flood Relief Fund in 1959. The social issues were also highlighted in the plots during Ganesh Festival.

                      Since then, Lalbaugcha Raja has been in demand for many years. Now, office-bearers of the mandal have become the most sought after people in the city as they can help you to bypass the long queues for darshan. Without their assistance, it can take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours of waiting to get a darshan of the lord during Ganeshotsav

Fed up of the endless calls throughout the day — with everyone from ministers to the aam aadmi on the line — the office-bearers of the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (LRSGM), have for the first time issued advertisements on 100 BEST buses saying devotees will have to stand in queue for more than 12 hours if they want to touch the idol’s feet. There are no set rules for priority darshan, but on humanitarian grounds, the mandal allows pregnant women, those with infants, and the handicapped to bypass the queues. This is the only mandal in the city where devotees have to stand in queue for over 12 hours to touch the idol’s feet. For mukhdarshan, or a mere viewing of the idol, people have to wait for two to three hours. Barely two days after the Lalbaugcha Raja set foot in the city, the collections in the donation boxes have crossed Rs1 crore, the most in a two-day period at the mandal. The first day collections totalled to Rs49.15 lakh as against 36 lakh last year, while the second day collections closed at Rs 52.1 lakh as on Saturday evening. The Lalbaugcha Raja has become the city's most sought after Ganesh idol over the last few decades, with devotees waiting in queues for hours together just to catch a five-second glimpse of the 'wish-fulfilling deity'. Located at Lalbaug market, Lalbaugcha Raja is one of the oldest sarvajanik (public) Ganesh festivals of Mumbai established in 1934.During the pre-Independence era, the festival was used as a platform by the prominent leaders to generate opinion against the British empire Lalbaugcha Raja is truly a King in all respects and it pays to seek his audience If you want to see the lengths people are prepared to go to for devotion, the Lalbaugcha Raja is the idol to visit. It draws an average of 1.5 million people a day -- astonishing! People simply believe that this Ganesh idol can fulfill their wishes, and there's a lot of media attention on it. There are two main lines to see the idol: a general line, and line for those wanting to make a vow or get a wish fulfilled (navas). The navas line takes devotees right to the idol's feet, whereas the general line offers viewing (darshan) from a distance of around 10 meters away. Until recently, it was common for the navas line to stretch snake-like for over five kilometers. However the organizer has started providing huge air conditioned tents in the adjacent ground to accommodate everyone. The procession for the immersion (visarjan) starts out at 10 a.m. from the Lalbaug market on the final day of the festival, and takes the following route: Lalbaug, Bharat Mata Theatre, Lalbaug, Sane Guruji Marg, Byculla Railway Station, Clare Road, Nagpada, Dunkan Road, Don Taki, Sant Sena Maharaj Marg (Kumbharwada), Suthar Gully, Madhav Baug, C.P. Tank, V.P. Road, Opera House, Girgaon Chowpatti. My Saakshaat Pranams to this wish fulfilling Lalbaugcha Raja.May His blessed darshan make all our wishes and dreams come true and may our soul rest at the holy feet of this Deva. Quote of BABA: God does not like big subscriptions and dona­tions collected against the wishes of the donors, but He likes even trifling amounts given with love, devotion and appre­ciation "Vakratunda Mahakaya, Suryakoti Samaprabha, Nirvighnam Kurumi Deva, Sarva Karyesu Sarvada

Shri Shirdi Sai Speaks - 4th Sept/ 52 ft tall idol of Ganpathi deva in Khairathabad, Hyderabad along with the 2,200 kg ladoo that was offered to Him

    Om Sai Ram
May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring lots of  happiness in your life and may you
enjoy this festival with love in your heart and good wishes for others.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganpathi Deva in Khairathabad, Hyderabad -AndhraPradesh , India -during Ganesh Chaturthi festival 2011

Vishnu Roopa” avatar seeking universal peace and harmony this year in Khairathabad, Hyderabad  stands on a falcon (Garuda vahanam) and is sheltered by 18 snakes with their hoods open.A major highlight in 2011 is the offering of a 2,200 kg laddu and 20-foot dhoop stick.

For Ganesh Chaturthi 2011, Khairatabad Ganesh idol in Hyderabad is one among the largest Ganesha idols in India. Khairatabad Ganesh idol known for its mammoth size, is the largest Ganesh idol in India for every Ganesh Chaturthi or Ganesh Festival. Like every year, in 2011, it is the largest once again with 52 feet height.

A sweetmaker from Tappeswaram in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh has offered a huge‘laddu’ weighing over 2,000 kilogram to the 52-feet tall Ganesh idol at Khairatabad.

“The 2,200-kg laddu contains 150 kg dry fruits, 250 kg ghee,600 kg sugar and 400 kg of Chana dal. Prepared completely with Ghee it will remain fresh for a month,” Mallikarjuna Rao Head of Suruchi Foods, Tappeswaram told mediapersons.

The expenditure for this laddu, which is placed on the hands of the Lord, is around Rs 4 lakh.

The laddu was brought from Tappeswaram in a separate vehicle in a procession and reached Hyderabad yesterday, where it was handed over to the Ganesh Utsava Samithi, Khairtabad.

The Ganesha Murti in 2011 is flanked by Anandapadmanabha Temple in Trivandrum and Rajarajeswara Swamy.

My Humble Pranams to this sacred Ganesh ji in Khairathabad, Hyderabad. May Ganpathi Baba remove all the obstacles from our path and make our lives as sweet as the 2,200 kg ladoo that has been offered to Him on this auspiscious occassion of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Nerveless Tongue Dictates the WorldWe perform any deed with three tools, viz., the mind, word and body, which are called trikaranas. We think with our mind, speaks about it through the word and implement it with our body. Whatever we see with our eyes and hear through our ears, we have to convey it through the mouth only. Hence, the word uttered by the mouth is very sharp. That is why elders urge that we should not comment on what all we saw or heard. A word can inspire or depress the mind.
If a thorn pricks our foot, we will forget about it as soon as the pain subsides. But, if a word pricks the mind like a thorn, we cannot forget the agony it caused. Such words will lead to misunderstandings and disasters. The tongue which is less than three inches long can kill a six foot man. Dharmaraja's small lie - Aswatthama hataha kunjaraha had caused Drona's death (He cried that Aswatthama was dead and then muttered under his breath that an elephant named 'Aswatthama' died). That is why Baba always preached not to scold or ill-treat others. The powers bestowed on us by God should be utilized for performing good deeds. Good people will reveal their love through words. Some people will get even impossible things done by their skilful use of words. When Baba, Divine Love Incarnate, spoke to the devotees, it was like the shower of nectarine rain on them.

 

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on September 4, 2011 – Shukla Paksha Saptami Tithi or seventh day of waxing phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places.

Tommorrow on 5th September 2011 , - An important Vrata dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in North India is the Mahalakshmi Vratha or Mahalaxmi Puja which begins on the Bhadrapad Shukla Ashtami Tithi (eighth day after new moon in September) and ends on Ashwin Krishna Ashtami Tithi (eighth day after full moon in September). In 2011, Mahalakshmi Vrata begins on September 5 and ends on September 20. The Mahalaxmi Vrata is observed for sixteen days and is mainly followed in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

The greatness of Mahalakshmi Vrata was explained to Yudhisthira by Lord Krishna. Yudhisthira wanted to know about a Vrata with which he can get back all that he had lost including property and wealth. The importance of the Vrata is also mentioned in the Bhavishya Purana.

The Lakshmi Vrata in North India begins on the Bhadrapad Shukla Ashtami morning with special prayers to Goddess Lakshmi. After taking bath, usual prayers are offered to Lakshmi. Some people make sixteen knots using a string and tie it on the left hand. Sixteen Dhurva grass is dipped in water and is sprinkled on the body.

The main ritual during the Vrata is abstaining from non-vegetarian food, waking up early taking bath and praying to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.

The Vrata ends on the Ashwina Krishna Ashtami day with evening prayers dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. A Kalash or Purna Kumbha is worshipped as Mahalakshmi on the last day. A bronze Kalasham (pot) is filled with water, akshatas, couple of coins etc. The neck of the pot is decorated with betel leaves or mango leaves. The pot is smeared with kumkum, sandalwood and turmeric paste. A coconut is placed on the neck of the pot and is also smeared with kumkum and turmeric. A new cloth is tied to the Kalasha and it is worshipped as Goddess Lakshmi.
Normal pujas are performed on all days like lighting a lamp, incense and dhoop etc. You can also listen to Lakshmi Sahasranama or other bhajans or Mahalakshmi Vratha Katha dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi during the period.

Quote of BABA:

Though I pass away, Do not be anxious that I would be absent from you. You will hear My bones speaking and discussing your welfare

Shri Shirdi Sai speaks-19th July/Today is Mangala Gauri Vrat in North India /BABA May I Answer

Om Sai Ram

Awesome thought: Believe in God like how you believe in the Sun. Not because you can see it but you can see everything because of it.

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on July 19, 2011 – Today is Krishna Paksha Chaturthi

or fourth day of the waning phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places. It is Krishna Paksha Chaturthi till 1:47 PM on July 19. After 1:47 PM it is Krishna Paksha Panchami or the fifth day of the waning phase of moon. All time based on India Standard Time.

Nakshatra – Shatabhishak or Sadayam or Chathayam Nakshatra till 2:05 PM. Afterwards it is Purvabhadra or Puruttathi Nakshatram.

Rashi or Moon Sign – Kumbha Rasi.

Festivals, Vrat and Auspicious days – Mangala Gauri Vrat in North India

Mangala Gauri Puja, or Mangala Gauri Vrata, is observed by married women on Tuesdays (Mangalwar) in the Hindu month of Shravan. Mangala Gouri Puja 2011 dates in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra are –August 2, August 9, August 16 and August 23. Mangala Gowri Vrata is observed by women for the long life of their husbands and for a happy and prosperous married life. It must be noted that in traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India, Mangala Gowri Puja begins two weeks earlier compared to the calendars followed in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Mangala Gowri Puja 2011 dates in North India are – July 19, July 26, August 2 and August 9.

Mangala Gowri Puja is dedicated to Goddess Gowri – another name of Goddess Parvati.

Since it is observed on Tuesday in the Shravana month, it is known as Shravan Maas Mangala Gouri Puja.

The puja is done with the intention that Goddess Gauri will bless the house with material prosperity, health and long life

Sravana Mangala Gauri Puja Story

The various Vratas that are observed in Hinduism is based on a story. The general idea of the story remains the same but the characters and incidents change from region to region. This Shravana Mangala Gowri Vrata Katha is from Karnataka known as Mangala Gowri Haadu or Haddu. The shloka or song (prayer) narrated during the puja is also referred as Mangala Gauri Haadu
Long long ago a boy who was studying under a guru went from house to house seeking alms. This was a tradition then and the Guru and shishya only took what was needed for the day. But strangely this boy refused alms given by the queen of the land and took alms from other women. The king and the queen of the land were staunch Shiva devotees but did not have any children.

The queen and the king discussed this strange incident and the next day, the queen again offered rice to the young boy. But the boy did not accept it.

The king came and asked why he was not taking the rice from the queen.

The boy said that the king and queen did not have children and it would not be wise to take alms from a couple who is unlucky.

The king got angry and said only Lord Shiva can decide who should be lucky and unlucky. The king who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva soon realized that the boy was Shiva in disguise. He then prayed to forgive his arrogance and asked to be blessed with a child.

Shiva blessed the couple but said their child will only live for sixteen years.

A boy, Chandrasekhar, was born to the couple and soon time passed by and the boy became a teenager. The king and the queen remembered the words of Shiva and decided to send young Chandrasekhar, who was fifteen, to Kashi. It is believed that those who die at Kashi will never be born again.

Young Chandrasekhar was informed about his fate and without any other option he followed his uncle to Kashi. On the way, the young boy saw several new things. In a garden, they met a lovely princess. The boy and the uncle heard the princess discussing the glory of Mangala Gowri Puja. It was the Shravan month and the girls were performing the Mangala Gowri Vratha. The princess was saying that whoever she marries will live a long life because she performs the Mangala Gowri Puja with pure heart and devotion.

The boy and the uncle moved forward and they met a prince who was sick. He explained to them that he was to marry the princess of the kingdom tomorrow but he was ashamed to go in front of people as he has fallen sick. The prince asked Chandrasekhar to help him out by appearing in the marriage function. Chandrasekhar agreed.

Young Chandrasekhar appeared as the groom and the first day of the marriage function passed away smoothly. That night Chandrasekhar was to turn sixteen. He explained about his fate and about the real prince to the princess and decided to leave next morning to Kashi.

But that night the princess saw a snake approaching Chandrasekhar; she grabbed a handful of unbroken grains used to perform Mangala Gowri Puja and threw it on the snake. The snake fell dead. She took the snake and hid it in the Kalash used to perform the Mangala Gowri Puja.

Chandrasekhar left the next morning and he left his wedding ring there. The other prince took the place for the day’s wedding ceremony but the princess was not ready to marry him. She said firmly that Chandrasekhar was her husband and she will only sit next to him.

Chandrasekhar reached Kashi and a year passed. He did not die. The strength and devotion with which the young princess performed the Mangala Gowri Puja saved him. While returning back to his kingdom, Chandrasekhar again reached the same spot. He longed to see the young princess even though he believed that she was happily married to the prince.

Chandrasekhar heard that the princess was in the habit of feeding all the people who passed by her kingdom. He went and sat among the people who was partaking the food offered by the princess. Soon the princess appeared. She was closely examining all the people who were eating. She has been doing this from the day Chandrasekhar left; she was sure that one day he will pass by her kingdom.

In no time, the young princess recognized Chandrasekhar. She showed him the wedding ring. The young Chandrasekhar could not control his tears. He said he did not die. The princess said she knew it and explained what happened on the night when he turned sixteen.

Soon they got married and lived happily there after.

C.B. Satpathy: BABA May I Answer

The faith in Baba should never diminish. Will I be successful in achieving the same?

Read, think, speak, hear, write, meditate on Him as much as you possibly can. Use your entire faculties to

understand Him. Try continuously and the candle of devotion will never be extinguished. It will go on shining brighter day by day.

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Even though I am sincerely praying to Lord Baba and have a lot of faith in Him, I really don’t

think my problems are solved.

‘Faith’ with ‘Patience’ are the two key words that Baba prescribed for His devotees. Baba is always looking after His devotees in more than one ways, some of which the devotees do not know. Thousands of people are experiencing the help rendered by Baba today as they used to experience when Baba was at Shirdi in His human embodiment. Continue to pray. Life is a continuous process of problems and solutions. God does not solve it directly. He gets it done through us-that is through our Karma or actions, under the benevolent supervision of a Master or Sadguru. Sadgurus tellwhich Karmas (activities) are good and which are evil. He also knows when a problem is to be solved for the best benefit of the devotee. Please always have patience when leaving things at the hands of Baba to decide.

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I am an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba. I am facing lots of problems at present. Sometimes

my faith in God starts dwindling and I feel there is nothing greater than destiny. Is my feeling

correct?

I am sure that what you think to be a problem is not a problem but is certain type of an experience given to you by nature in order to evolve you. Destiny is always created by God, through a combination of circumstances and our own efforts. As per the Karma Theory of the Hindus nothing happens in life i.e. good or bad or neutral unless one has caused it to happen it through his actions in the past lives or in this life. In ‘Shri Sai Sat Sachritra’, Baba has advised His devotees not to be shaken by any problem whatsoever but to maintain patience and see what is coming in future while praying Him all the time. A wise devotee will always try to evolve or rebuild his destiny through the help of the Master. The Master can charter the course of His disciple much better in case the devotee has full faith in the Master (Shraddha) and lots of patience (Saburi).

Blessed to be a Flute God is all pervading. He dwells in every being. But only in a few that divinity is openly visible. The reason is that the blessed souls were freed from several impurities in order to manifest that divinity. It is the tendency of human nature to accumulate all and sundry things and having done so, one simply ignores their utility. A house gets jam-packed with unwanted articles. Likewise, our minds too get cluttered up with unwanted thoughts and there will be no scope for right thoughts. Then how come there be a place to think of God? Therefore, man must make his mind as empty as a hollow flute.
An ordinary bamboo becomes a flute on removing its core substance. Likewise, a man can produce heavenly music like a flute by getting purified. God dwells in a pure heart. He will fill his breath as musical notes in that heart. Elated, He broadcasts soul-stirring songs. The air blown through the flute of heart will become spiritual and the universe echoes with it. The bamboo eagerly awaits for the touch of the lips of Lord Krishna and gets transformed into a flute. Like a flute spreading the melody of Lord Krishna in the universe, we can also spread the melodious message of Baba with our deep yearning for universal welfare. It is not just enough to think, "I must become a flute" but practice is essential for reaching that ego-erased, hollow state. 

Sai`s blessings may come as a surprise & how much you receive depends on how much your heart can believe. May you be blessed beyond what you expect!

Shri Shirdi Sai speaks-14th July/Guru Purnima Utsav begins today at Shirdi/Story abt the significance of celebrating Guru Purnima festival in Shirdi

Om Sai Ram

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on July 14, 2011 – Today is Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi –

  fourteenth day of the waxing phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places. It is Shukla Paksha Chaturdasi till 12:06 PM on July 14. After 12:06 PM it is Purnima Tithi or Full moon day. All time based on India Standard Time.

Nakshatra – Mool or Moolam Nakshatra till 9:08 AM. Afterwards it is Purvashada or Pooradam Nakshatram.

Rashi or Moon Sign – Dhanu Rashi.

Festivals, Vrat and Auspicious days – Purnima Vrat, Shiva Shayan Chaturdasi and Guru Purnima Utsav begins at Shirdi.

GuruPurnima Utsav @ Shirdi

The Purnima or the full moon day in Ashada Month (June – July), which is popularly known as Guru Poornima, is of great significance at the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. The Sai Baba Ashada Purnima Utsav begins on July 14, 2011 and ends on July 16, 2011. The main day of the festival is July 15.

The popular belief is that Sai Baba showers blessings on the day on his devotees.

The Guru Purnima at the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple begins on the Ashada Shukla Chaturdashi – the 14th day during the waxing phase of moon. There will be palanquin ride on the day.

The most important festival is held on the full moon day and includes ratha or chariot procession.

The popular belief is that on one Guru Purnima day Shirdi Sai Baba sat on the big stone that He created in front of Dwarakamai and gave blessings to devotees.

Life History of Sai Baba describes the event like this –

While the arathi was being given on Guru Purnima day, Baba’s face became very tight as if a thousand lamps were lighted with different colors. The surprised devotees wanted to touch Baba’s feet and prostrate before him. Noticing the thoughts of the devotees, he slowly walked towards the big stone that he created in front of Dwarakamai.

As soon as he reached the stone he sat on it putting his left hand on the toe of his right leg and putting the right hand on the thigh of his right leg. Then he looked deeply into the eyes of each devotee, by which the joy experienced by them was beyond description. When they touched his feet, they felt an unknown divine power entering their bodies and reach their hearts. These things have to be personally experienced and cannot be explained. All those who experienced this, started to celebrate Guru Poornima on every Ashada Suddha Poornima day with pomp and gaiety.

GuruPournima Utsav 2011 @ Shirdi

https://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new/invitation/Grupournima2011/index.html

 

A new and improved website of Shri Shirdi Sai Sansthan [Must See]

https://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new/new_eng%20template_shirdi/shirdi/index.html

Latest News related to Shirdi

"From this Weekend, all Devotees CAN GO ONLINE & BOOK TIME SLOTS FOR HAVING SAI BABA'S DARSHAN IN SHIRDI !!! Also, they can make ONLINE BOOKINGS FOR ROOMS AND MAKING DONATIONS !!! :-) The procedure will be officially revealed in a days time. Happy Gurupurnima 2 All !!!"

Faith is Baba's Precious Gift to us Nothing is impossible for those who repose faith in God. Many people think that faith in God can only be cultivated with hard work. If we whole-heartedly pray to Baba, the Supreme Protector, He shall bestow on us the power of firm faith in Him. To develop such strong faith in Baba, we need to constantly chant His Name, recall His Leelas and His assuring words for seeking His Divine Shelter. If we can control our fickle mind by chanting Baba's Name and pondering His teachings, Baba will enlighten us, create a fort of faith in our heart and dwells there. So, we need not worry as to how faith in Baba should be cultivated. Baba blesses His ardent devotees with the iron will to walk up to Him with upright conduct and thought.
Baba is the Supreme Master of the Universe. He is the One who will purge our sins, transform us into the embodiments of pure form of Truth and save us from getting entangled in the cycle of birth and death. Therefore, like a bud, we must sincerely offer ourselves to Him and devote most of our time to His Service and must also surrender our every thought to Baba. By the grace of Baba, the budding devotion will blossom into a full-blown flower of faith. As our love for Baba deepens, He will safely take us to the haven of joy and reinforces our faith in Him. A fervent prayer to Baba moves His heart to be always with us.

Guru Purnima, also referred as Vyasa Poornima, is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Ashada or Ashara (June – July). Guru Purnima 2011 date is July 15. The day is dedicated to the Guru – one who dispels darkness. Guru is honored and given due respect on Guru Charan Pujan day. Sage Vyasa is considered the Adi Guru or the first Guru in Hindu religion and therefore the day is also known as Vyas Poornima.

Shri Shirdi Sai speaks-12th July/Today is Pradosh Vrat /BABA May I Answer

Om Sai Ram

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on July 12, 2011 – Today is Shukla Paksha Dwadasi –

  twelfth day of the waxing phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places. It is Shukla Paksha Dvadasi till 2:44 PM on July 12. After 2:44 PM it is Trayodasi Tithi. All time based on India Standard Time.

Nakshatra – Anuradha or Anusham or Anizham Nakshatra till 10:20 AM. Afterwards it is Jyeshta or Triketta or Kettai Nakshatram.

Rashi or Moon Sign – Vrischika Rasi.

Festivals, Vrat and Auspicious days – Pradosh Vrat.

Pradosh Vrat, also known as Pradosham, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The Pradosha fasting and rituals are observed on the 13th day of lunar fortnight. There is an interesting story mentioned in the Puranas which narrate the origin of the Pradosh Fasting. The Pradosh vrat katha is associated with Samudurmanthana or Churning of ocean and Lord Shiva drinking the poison Halahala.To get Amrita or the elixir of life, Devas and Asuras started the Samudra Manthan or churning of ocean on the advice from Lord Vishnu. The churning of the ocean produced the terrible poison Halahala which had the capacity to devour the universe.

Lord Shiva came to the rescue of the Devas and Demons and he drank the poison Halahala. The demons and gods continued the churning of the ocean and finally they got the Amrut or elixir on the twelfth day of lunar fortnight.

The Devas and Asuras thanked Lord Shiva on the thirteenth day. Pleased with the devotion, Lord Shiva is believed to have danced between the horns of Nandi – the bull. The time when Shiva was extremely happy was the Pradosham period or the twilight time.

It is believed that Lord Shiva is extremely happy during this period and blesses all this devotees and fulfills their wishes during the Pradosh period on Trayodashi day.

Shiva devotees perform Pradosh for attaining moksha and fulfilling their dreams.

C.B. Satpathy: BABA May I Answer
I have been going through a very trying time. Many times I feel that my faith is being tested,
as Baba doesn’t answer my prayers. How come I get no help from Baba?
Many actions are played by Baba from behind the scene for the benefit of the devotees which may not be known to the devotee themselves. Knowing the past ‘Karmas’ of a devotee, the Sadguru quietly works on his evolution. One has to have faith and patience to reap the benefits of His blessings in due course, and at a time ordained by Him. That is why Baba qualified the word “Shraddha” (faith) with the word “Saburi” (patience). Anyone of these two qualities cannot stand without the other as they are inter-dependent. If you read “Shri Sai Satcharitra” you will get your answers as Baba did answer such queries of devotees in His own way.

Do not Imitate Others in the Mode of Worship God is the Embodiment of Eternal Light. There are many paths to reach Him. We must choose the one which we like. In whichever path we move, we should not forget that we can reach God only with single-minded devotion. To some, the path of devotion appears simple. There are devotees who realize God by listening to His glories, chanting His Name and meditating on Him. Some others treat God as a mother, friend, lover and a master. No need for the mastery of logic to realize the Divine Master. Fervent prayers and firm devotion would please God.
One devotee objected to another devotee who was serving Baba by vigorously massaging the stomach and torso of Baba. Baba felt annoyed. Baba would see the intensity of pure love-devotion of a devotee before he accepts his or her service to Him. Moreover, He would manifest in whatever form we worship Him. None can interfere between a devotee and God. If true love springs in heart, the intensity of such divine love guides us to reach God through any one or other medium. We need not imitate others who may worship God by offering golden flowers or serve tasty dishes. Although Mhalsapathy was very poor, the All-Compassionate Baba embraced him and even saved his family too. We must totally offer our mind to God and not imitate or worry about the religious rituals practised by others.

Shri Shirdi Sai speaks-8th July/BABA May I Answer/Today is Monthly Durga Ashtami

Om Sai Ram

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on July 8, 2011 – Today is Shukla Paksha Ashtami – eighth day of the waxing phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places. It is Shukla Paksha Ashtami from 2:00 AM to 11:30 PM on July 8. Before 2:00 AM it is Saptami or seventh day of the waxing phase of moon. After 11:30 PM it is Navami Tithi. All time based on India Standard Time.

Nakshatra – Hastha or Atham or Hastam Nakshatra till 4:08 PM. Afterwards it is Chitra or Chithirai Nakshatram.

Rashi or Moon Sign – Kanya Rashi.

Festivals, Vrat and Auspicious days – Monthly Durga Ashtami.

C.B. Satpathy: BABA May I Answer

I have been told that it is essential to have a living master to evolve spiritually. How true is it?

To have a living master is good. My personal experience is, if one prays to Baba even without a physical Master, one can evolve. I do not have any physical Master nor did I ever try. Baba is the Param Sadguru of this age. Baba said that He would be alive and helping His devotees from His tomb. I have been experiencing it to be true. His body might have been entombed but His spirit is very much alive and continues to help His devotees. Ultimately everything depends on ones level of consciousness. At the initial stage a person entering the spiritual path needs to have a living Guru to guide him in the correct path.

Your Good conduct inspires others to follow You

If we hold good thoughts and live in upright conduct, people around us get attracted by our magnetic personality. They, in turn, try to emulate us and apply such human values in their lives too. When we have fervent faith in Sai and His name becomes synonymous for peace, trust and patience, people around us get inspired and they reciprocate in similar manner. Right conduct should be our ideal. We need to speak on good subjects. The words we speak must be encouraging, affectionate, sincere and able to fill the hearts of others with joy. Sweet words and soul-endearing smiles create an atmosphere of delight. Everyone has the ability to change the conduct of others. But, we need to ensure that what we preach is similar to our practice.

A person who spreads love alone can make others walk on his path. Our words charged with love will stream into others. Love flows from heart to heart. The way we behave intimately and friendly and speak sweetly will attract others. When we put into practice upright conduct and tread the right path, Baba will bless and ensure that others too follow us. This is the Love Philosophy of Baba. When we follow the noble teachings which Baba Himself preached and practised, the source of His Divine Love-Power illumines our lives, ensuring serenity, felicity and even turning others to tread the path.

Good Thought:    “Real temperature control is to extinguish the heat of anger.”

Shri Shirdi Sai speaks-6th july/Saibaba Maalik Ek Sur Anek-[Must watch]/Latest News from Shirdi

Om Sai Ram

Tithi in Hindu Calendar on July 6, 2011 – Today is Shukla Paksha Panchami and Sashti – fifth and sixth day of the waxing phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in all places. It is Shukla Paksha Panchami till 6:47 AM. Afterwards it is Sashti or sixth day of the waxing phase of moon. All time based on India Standard Time.

Note – in certain regional calendars (Marathi calendars) – the tithi is both only Sashti – sixth day.
Nakshatra – Purvaphalguni or Pooram Nakshatra till 7:21 PM. Afterwards it is Uttaraphalguni or Uthiram Nakshatram.
Rashi or Moon Sign – Simha Rasi.
Festivals, Vrat and Auspicious days – Skanda Shasti (in North India). Muruga Sashti Fasting.

Saibaba Maalik Ek Sur Anek

In this materialistic world, we are lost in the labyrinth of intolerance and a life devoid of Spirituality. The universal truth of all Spirituality is in the practice of Humanity. Sai Baba showed us that Equality is the essence of Humanity and that there is, but one God : Maalik ek. And the best way to spread his message, Render it musically together: Sur Anek

A devotional evening to celebrate the message of Shirdi Sai Baba, rendered by India’s leading playback singers & choreographed performances of Bollywood stars. Red Carpet walk ins by the performers. Spectacular Set by Omung Kumar and thematic stagecraft.

This show was aired on starplus on 3rd July 2011- I have posted below the youtube links of this wonderful program for all those who were not able to see it.
Part 1- http://youtu.be/ShVQO3_cfm8Part 2 - http://youtu.be/E51aOwEYG1w

Part 3 - http://youtu.be/Cxac7OXoE6g
Part 4- http://youtu.be/n1P6OnASD_U

Part 5- http://youtu.be/4sEBhgi9bSM

Part 6 - http://youtu.be/GVsAswuJNSM

Latest News from Shirdi

SHIRDI SAI BABA'S INNOCENT DEVOTEES BEING DECEIVED -

05th July`2011

Shirdi: In a significant move, the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust has cautioned the devotees against the groups who claim to have articles used by Sai Baba during his lifetime. Indicating to act tough against such people & groups, the Sansthan has informed to take up the issue with the government as well as the managements of Shirdi Sai temples across the country.

Besides this, the Trust also cautioned the devotees to not to get carried away by certain commercial ventures

who claim to have ascertained the caste, age or place of birth of Shirdi Sai Baba.The Sansthan is forced to take this step as some people are deceiving the innocent Sai devotees pretending that they have Sai Baba's Paduka (Foot Wears), Sataka (Wood Stick), Tamrel, Chimta, Kafani, original Photographs and Coins brought from Shirdi.Jayant Sasane, the chairman of the trust said that they are already in touch with the managements of the main Shirdi Sai temples

regarding this issue and besides this, the devotees also are advised to directly report such matters

to the Shri Saibaba Sansthan main office @ Shirdi by E-mail: saibaba@sai.org.in

 or saibaba@shrisaibabasansthan.org

Every devotee has his or her own experience with Baba but there are few anti social elements who just for the sake of commercial interests concoct stories about Baba. Such persons shall be strictly dealt with, Sasane added further.The Management of Shirdi Sai Temple`Chandigarh termed the initiative as a much awaited one. They said that the campaign should not only be limited to those who make false claims, but there should be action against those who even use Baba's photo for promoting their business ventures.

Sadguru Lits the Lamp of Life

Our life is an earthen wick lamp. The light that burns in it is life. The individual soul clings to the light of life. It is Sadguru, the Perfect Master, who guides it towards the Light of God. Longing for the Grace of the God-Guru, if a devotee takes one step forward, the spark of attachment gets ignited by the flame of the Spirit-Light and enjoins with ego and both will burn up. Death of ego and attachment is the birth of self-liberation. The Divine Grace-Power helps the flower of devotion to blossom. By means of the power of discrimination which man's intellect has, man can discover the Divinity within him. Wisdom aids discretion. Intellect awakens discretion. Mind gets illumined in the light of intellect. Merit earned in the past birth reflects in the present birth as good thought-impressions in one's mind.

If we are not vigilant, maya will pollute and pervert the minds and cloud our good thought-impressions. Baba can gradually weaken the hold of previous ill-deeds and lead us to perform righteous deeds. It is very difficult to describe the noble deeds of Baba who gifted us His Nectarine Name, bliss of His Form, virtues of charity and is instrumental in erasing our ego and pride and offer us the fruits of self-realization by destroying thoughts like "my" and "I". Let us listen to Baba's teachings and follow in His foot-steps to the true purpose of life.