Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, USA Boudhik Vibhag Boudhik Yojana (Apr
June 2014)
Slide 3
WeekendTopicFormat All weeksGeet Abhyas and learn All
weeksAmrit vachanRead out loud before prarthana on sampata / during
boudhik All weeksSubhashitaLead and Follow before prarthana on
sampata / during boudhik APR Yugaadi Utsav Doctor ji life and
incidents Baudhik Doctor ji life and incidents Story/Discussion
Doctor ji life and incidents Story/Discussion Hindu Dharma -
Darshanas Baudhik and Discussion MAY Hindu Dharma - Darshanas
Baudhik and Discussion Current Affairs Discussion on Withdrawal of
book Hinduism: Alternative HistoryBaudhik and Discussion Long
Weekend JUN Hindu Dharma Scriptures (Vedas, Upanishads) Baudhik and
Discussion Hindu Sanghatana Divas -Story of Shivaji Baudhik/Story
Hindu Dharma - Scriptures (Puranas) Baudhik and Discussion
Discussion on - Subhashita Baudhik and Discussion
Slide 4
Subhashita Recommended format (at the time of sankhya during
ending of the shakha): Vakta says once, everyone repeats twice
Vakta reads the meaning Vakta says once, everyone repeats once
Sample recording is attached. Try using similar tune line at a
time
Slide 5
Subhashita | || dIpo bhakShayate dhvAntam kajjalam cha
prasUyate | yadannam bhakShayennityam jAyate tAdRishI prajA || Lamp
eats darkness and produces [black] soot! What food (quality) [one]
eats daily, so will [one] produce
http://blog.practicalsanskrit.com/2010/07/we-are-what-we-eat.html
Slide 6
Subhashita , , aneka-saMshayo_chchhedi, paroksh_Arthasya
darshakam | sarvasya lochanam shAstram, yasya nAsti andhaiva saH ||
It blasts many doubts, foresees what is not obvious | science is
the eye of everyone, one who hasn't got it, is like blind ||
http://blog.practicalsanskrit.com/2009/07/science-is-only-eye.html
Slide 7
Amruta Vachan Say this during Prarthana (while sankhya is being
taken) or during baudhik Important thing is to say it in front of
the Gana with Confidence Assign the Amruta Vachan giving ample time
to memorize Practice saying loudly and clearly
Slide 8
Amruta Vachan Always bear in mind that your own resolution to
succeed, is more important than any other one thing. Abraham
Lincoln The flower of youth should be offered at the feet of the
Mother when it is in full bloom shedding its fragrance and beauty
all round Keshav Baliram Hedgewar (Doctor ji) One who sees all
beings in the Self, and the Self in all beings, hates none. Isha
Upanishad
(Har Har Bam Bam Hindu Baankure Hain Ham) x 3 Chir Vijay Kee
Chaah Se Badh Rahe Hain Ye Kadam Dharma Ko Uthaayenge Hindu Dheer
Veer Ham Har HarHar Har Bam Bam Hindu Baankure Hain Ham Mahaan
Hindu Dharma Kee Paramparaa Mahaan Hai Yugon Yugon Se Dharma Kee
Divya Aan Baan Hai Yuddh Ho Kee Shanti Ho Karma Dharma Kranti Ho
Vishwa Jaanataa Yahee Ham Naheen Kisee Se Kam Har Har Kaal Chakra
Vakra Ho Poornimaa Amaas Ho Dishaa Dishaa Prahaar Ho Khand Khand
Maa na Ho Ab Na Deen Heen Ham Rah Na Jaaye Koee Bhram Kaal Ke
Pravaah Ko Mod Kar Hee Lenge Dam Har Har Vamsee Kee Taan Hai Geet
Geet Gyaan Hai Kadam Kadam Sadhaa Huaa Tej Hai Uphaan Hai Aankh
Aankh Jwaal Hai Bhujaa Bhujaa Krupaan Hai Shatru Dharma Ke Suno
Hain Jay Jawaan Ham Har Har
Slide 13
Use the material as reference. It is very important to cover
stories of Doctor ji for at least two weeks in this quarter (Other
than Yugaadi Utsav) Assign the material in advance and encourage
exploration and study (Additional links have been provided and more
are available in the internet) Purpose is to stimulate discussion
and develop interest in learning more Continuation of previous
Quarters material on Hindu Dharma Developing a plan for baudhik in
shakha (topics and vakta) is important Use this material as support
to local planning If you developed alternate material, share with
baudhik Vibhag ([email protected]) so that it can be shared
with [email protected] Reference material for Tarun
baudhik for quarter 2 - 2014
Slide 14
Hindu Dharma Philosophy, Scriptures
Slide 15
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Sanskrit Word Darshana means vision or
realization of the Self Finding out means to escape from clutches
of gried and human existence Result of a materially satisfied human
mind wondering about purpose of life Most schools of thought
existed simultaneously philosophy was a practical matter useful for
daily life and in shaping one's destiny Not just an intellectual
curiosity, but an intense desire to go beyond curiosities of life
Philosophy Love of Wisdom Western philosophy had beginnings in
Greek Includes great thinkers like Plato, Aristotle Schools of
thought tended to rise and fall
Slide 16
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Common characteristics of Hindu
Darshanas Direct experience: Each school originated with an
enlightened teacher who described his experiences of the truth and
method of attaining it Acceptance of authority: When a teacher
advocates a new philosophical system, he cites established
scriptures or the writings of authorized sages to support his
statements Harmony among schools: All systems of Indian philosophy
have a unique quality of cooperating with one another. When a
debate takes place the intent is not to destroy anothers philosophy
but to clarify ones own theories, thoughts Parallel growth and
coexistence of so many schools: The various systems of philosophy
flourished and grew simultaneously. The main reason is that the
open-minded approach attracted students of various hues who were
impressed with the practical aspects of that system of
philosophy
Slide 17
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Common characteristics of Hindu
Darshanas Contd Open-mindedness: A broad outlook that reflects its
unflinching devotion to truth distinguishes Indian philosophy. Each
school is open to the views of all other schools. Support of logic
and reasoDirect experience is the foundation of Indian philosophy,
All systems of Indian philosophy apply the methods of logic to
argue their points of view and protect themselves from criticism
Belief of Eternity: Each system of Indian philosophy proclaims that
there is an eternal consciousness in man and the realization of
this consciousness is the goal of life Practicality: All systems of
Indian philosophy contain a practical aspect called Sadhana. Thus
the theoretical aspects of philosophy can be applied to everyday
life
Slide 18
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Major Division Astika : Accepting the
authority of Vedas (also called orthodox) Nastika: Not Compeltely
accepting the authority of vedas (Heterodox) All of them
(darshanas) deal with 4 topics 1. Existence and nature of Brahman
2. Nature of the jiva or the individual soul 3. Creation of the
jagat or the world. 4. Moksha or liberation and the disciplines
that lead to it.
Slide 19
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Astika Darshanas: Nyaya : Nyaya Sutra
by Sage Gautama: Key Concepts: Pramana, Pratyaksha, Anumana,Upamana
and Shabda Vaisheshika : Vaisheshika Sutra, Sage Kanaada, study on
six categories or padartha of knowledge: substance, quality,
activity, generality, particularity, and inherence. Samkhya : Sage
Kapila, Oldest school. Sees universe as a mix of dualist entities
(Light/Dark. Male/Female) Yoga : Accepted all samkhya concepts and
added god. Adopts brahman/Atman concept from Vedanta Purva Mimansa
: Most closely tied to vedas. Accepted other schools, felt
insufficient attention is paid to right action. Harmonize and make
sense of all the rituals in the Vedas. Influence of this schools is
seen on the daily rituals, observances of practicing Hindu. school
is foremost in the analysis of sound and mantra Uttara Mimamsa
(also called Vedanta) concentrates on the philosophical teachings
of the Upanishads rather than on the ritualistic injunctions of the
Brahmanas. goal of Vedanta was to discover the Real Self (unity, in
some way, with Brahman) by controlling the "lower self" and its
impulses through study and meditation. The central doctrine of
ancient Vedanta was Brahman: the eternal, uncaused, transcendent,
Ultimate Reality; the ground of all being. God (Ishvara) was also
important in Vedanta, though the Vedanta schools disagreed on
whether God was Brahman, or was related to Brahman in some other
way. Some of the most well-known schools of Vedanta including
Advaita Vedanta, Vishishtadvaita, and
DvaitaUpanishadsBrahmanas
Slide 20
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Nastika Darshanas: Lokayata: Held that
perception is the only valid source of knowledge, for all other
sources like testimony and inference are unreliable. Religious
rituals were useless, and scriptures contained no special insight.
the only purpose of life was to enjoy pleasure and avoid pain.
Jaina : There are souls in humans, animals, plants, and even in
dust particles (perhaps an anticipation of microorganisms). Some
souls are more conscious than others. Ahimsa doctrine was most
important to the Jains. branched into an immense variety of
religious worldviews. Jains believe that Jainism had always
existed, but the earliest historical figures to whom we can ascribe
a Jaina philosophy are Mahavira (6th century B.C.) Bauddha : Path
to liberation was called the "eight-fold noble path", and consisted
of right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right
livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right
concentration. By these methods, the Buddha taught, one may reach a
liberation from suffering into nirvana
Slide 21
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy DarshanaTeacherTeachings
VaisheshikaKanada Physics,especially atomic theory
NyayaGautamaLogic and epistemology SankhyaKapila MuniPhysics and
metaphysics YogaPatanjali Sadhana (spiritual practices)
MimamsaJaiminiHermeneutics and ritual VedantaVyasaMetaphysics
Slide 22
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy Take aways: All systems of Indian
philosophy have a unique quality of cooperating with one another
(compare with Abrahamic ones). Respect for sages and ancient
scriptures is a strong tradition in India. When a teacher advocates
a new philosophical system, he cites established scriptures or the
writings of authorized sages to support his statements
Self-realization, the direct experience of ones inner nature is the
goal of all systems of Indian philosophy. Every system prescribed
its own way of overcoming pain to achieve the goal of life. Thus
every human being has to look within, understand his own nature and
figure out his way to self-realization. There is nothing that this
is the only way. Its all about direct experience referred to above.
As we can see both Jain and bauddha darshanas form part of natika
darshana. It is part of the development of philosophical treatise
of prior schools. Westerners designated them as religions and that
still continues to be in use. All rituals, practices of present
have their origins in the principles of darshanas.
Slide 23
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures Scriptures: the sacred writings of
Christianity contained in the Bible (Original definition) any
writing or book, especially when of a sacred or religious nature.
(with Lower case S as in scripture )nature We will remember this
definition as it makes sense to other than HINDUs. Hinduism has no
single scripture but many. They include the Vedas and their
corollaries sometimes called collectively "the Vedic scriptures."
There are two main divisions: shruti that which is heard (revealed
truth), Canonical or eternal or unchanging smriti that which is
remembered (realized truth) supplementary, may change over time
Sanskrit is the language of most canonical texts, but many
subsidiary texts are written in the vernacular.
Slide 24
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures What do the literature contain
Philosophical concepts Information on personal values Practical
injunctions Story and myth Prayers and mantras Details of puja
steps, description Various arts and sciences
Slide 25
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures Veda : Means Knowledge, Oldest
available creations known to man Rig-Veda Ten books (called
mandalas) and has 1028 hymns in praise of various deities. It also
contains the famous Gayatri mantra and the prayer called the
Purusha Shukta (the story of Primal Man) Yajur-Veda handbook for
use in the performance of yajnas (sacrifices) It is divided into
two sections Krishna Yajurveda, Shukla Yajuveda Sama-Veda consists
of chants and melodies to be sung during worship and the
performance of yajna Atharva-Veda Contains hymns, mantras and
incantations, largely outside the scope of yajna With in each Veda
Samhitas : literally "collections," in this case of hymns and
mantras Brahmanas: manuals of ritual and prayer for the guiding
priests. They tend to explain the Samhitas Aranyakas: literally
"forest books" for hermits and saints. They are philosophical
treatises Upanishads: books of philosophy, also called "Vedanta,"
the end or conclusion of the Vedas
Slide 26
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures Six Vedangas (limbs of the Vedas)
Provide method or structure for the study of Vedas Kalpa (ritual
detail) Siksha (pronunciation, chanting) Vyakarana (grammar)
Nirukti (etymology) Chandas (metre) Jyotisha
(astronomy/astrology)
Slide 27
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures UPANISHADS Philosophical texts
delineating some of the key concepts within Hinduism The
traditional number of Upanishads is 108 (there are some of recent
origin) 13 are usually considered most important (number varies
depending on context, person) Come at the end of the Vedas Do not
construct any complex system of ideas and beliefs. Contains stories
of such individuals and their teachings The teaching of the
Upanishads can be best understood under the following three
categories the Self or essence of man Atman the Self or essence of
the world - Brahman the relation between Atman and Brahman Some
Upanishads are : Isha, Kena, Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Mandukya,
Aitareya, Taittariya, Brhadaranyaka, Chhandogya
Slide 28
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures PURANAS Narrate in human terms the
divinity and the doings of gods, sages, and heroes Chief objective
to educate people about the greatness of religion Generate in them
an undying devotion for God through concrete examples, stories and
legends have history at their core, they are not meant to be
historical or geographical literature The Puranas are distinct from
the Itihasa, historylike the Ramayana and Mahabharata through two
chief characteristics the Puranas focus on the mythological aspect,
whereas the Itihasa focuses on the historical aspect Hindus, firmly
believe that a recital of the Puranas is the easiest way to attain
peace, perfection, devotion, and liberation Present Vedic truths in
a simple manner as against Vedas is archaic and difficult to
master, metaphysics of the Upanishads is difficult for a common
person to understand
Slide 29
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures PURANAS T actfully helped in solving
social and economic problems that arose due to social upheavals and
foreign invasions Entire body of the Puranas belong to three
categories: sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic. They are also classified
as belonging to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva Important contribution of
the Puranas is the introduction of the concept of avatara Concept
of trimurti as Agni, Vayu, and Surya was present in Vedic times
replaced by Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva Doctrine of bhakti, which had
its origins in the Vedas, now became fully developed and
powerfull
Slide 30
Hindu Dharma- Scriptures PURANAS Impact of the puranas The
Puranas made a successful attempt at reconciling virtues and
actions that were practiced by brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and
shudras By bringing them together and by giving them a universal
status through the concept of svadharma, ones own dharma, the
Puranas created a powerful and silent social revolution that made
society cohesive and progressive During the Puranic period a life
of activity was specifically recommended as against useless
renunciation; this gave a great impetus to the concept of karma
yoga. Loka samgraha, doing good to the world, was also emphasized
as a spiritual discipline
Slide 31
Hindu Dharma- Maha Vakyas There are several very important
statements in the Vedas (and Upanishads), which are called the
Mahavakyas, One needs to meditate upon them to understand their
deep meaning Prajnanam Brahma: 'Consciousness is Brahman.' This is
called the Svarupabodha-Vakya or the sentence that explains the
nature of Brahman or the Self. This is contained in the
Aitareya-Upanishad of the Rigveda. Aham Brahma Asmi: 'I Am
Brahman.' This is the Anusandhana-Vakya, the idea on which the
aspirant tries to fix his mind. This is contained in the
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad of the Yajurveda. Tat Tvam Asi: 'That Thou
Art.' This is the Upanishadic Vakya contained in the Chhandogya
Upanishad of the Sama Veda. The teacher instructs through this
sentence. Ayam Atma Brahma: 'This Self is Brahman.' This is the
Anubhavabodha Vakya or the sentence that gives expression to the
inner intuitive experience of the aspirant. This is contained in
the Mandukya Upanishad of the Atharva Veda.
Slide 32
Hindu Dharma- Philosophy, Scriptures There is lot more to learn
about HINDU dharma, Philosophy and Scriptures. We have covered a
birds eye view of the same. Based on our interest, it is important
for us to study more on this topic. Internet has numerous sources
for reading. One interested in more deeper understanding would be
well advised to approach the study as a sadhana through a learned
guru. We will cover the Western religions, differences in
philosophy, Are All religions the same etc. in the coming
quarter.
Slide 33
Current Affairs The issue was in news last quarter Important to
understand the implications Present the material and seek
additional points from the group Discuss the importance or
promoting study of Religious studies at the college level by our
children the importance of supporting efforts in this direction by
individuals (Rajiv Malhotra and others) and groups (DCF, HAF
etc)
Slide 34
Current Affairs: Withdrawal of Wendy Donigers book Hinduism:
Alternative History FACTS OF THE CASE: a. Book on Hinduism authored
by Prof Wendy Doniger published by Penguin in 2009 and titled The
Hindus: An Alternative History. b. The book was withdrawn from
circulation owing to a law suit by one Dina Nath Mishra of Shiksha
Bachao Andolan. The court did not rule on the case, but publisher
agreed to withdraw the book and take back the unsold copies, prior
to trial by the court. c. This agreement applied to copies sold in
India ONLY. This book is available as a pdf on the net and still
available for sale elsewhere outside india d. The IPC Code
according to which this agreement came about was introduced in
India by the British, to prevent the publication of a book about
prophet Mohamad in 1925The IPC Code according to which this
agreement came about was introduced in India by the British, to
prevent the publication of a book about prophet Mohamad in 1925 e.
The said code has been used to prevent books by other authors other
communities (see above Link)
Slide 35
About The Book: 1. Book has received positive reviews in some
scholarly journals 2. Many Indian/Indian Americans have reviewed
the book and pointed out several inaccuracies, distortions.Many
Indian/Indian Americans have reviewed the book and pointed out
several inaccuracies, distortions About the author: a. Wendy
Doniger is a professor of History of religions in University of
ChicagoUniversity of Chicago b. Has written many books on
HinduismHas written many books on Hinduism Here are links to two
articles from 2009 when the book was originally published 1.
http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?262511 2.
http://www.sandeepweb.com/2009/11/25/wendy-doniger-is-a-syndrome/
Current Affairs: Withdrawal of Wendy Donigers book Hinduism:
Alternative History
Slide 36
Opinion about the case in the newspapers: a. It is a freedom of
speech issue. Counter arguments : 1. People touting this as freedom
of speech issue were never there when the same IPC was used to ban
book by Taslima nasrin (Lajja) 2. Similarly the movie based on the
book Da Vinci Code was banned in several states 3. The story of
Kamal Hasan's movie VishwaRoopam was changed forcibly to appease
Muslims 4. More over this book was withdrawn by the publisher, and
not banned. It is still available for sale outside 5 Same people
arguing for freedom of speech chose to non judicial methods in at
least 2 cases in USA a. Getting Subramanian Swamy banned from
Harvard due to article he wrote on ways of attaching Islamic
Terrorism b. Modi's participation in a conference in Wharton School
was withdrawn owing to protest from the same crowd without giving
the thought about Modi's right to free speech b. It is scholarly
book written by a scholar on Hinduism and should be debated Counter
Arguments: 1. Book was critiqued many scholars of Indian origin
with references and facts. Wendy did not want to debate them. 2.
Read the article http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?262511 to
see counter arguments about scholarship of Wendy Doniger. 3. The
field of religious studies in US universities is a clique and only
those in agreement with the established line are admitted (Invading
the Sacred 4. Wendy Doniger is NOT a religious scholar, she is a
scholar of History of religions. Hence view is biased. Current
Affairs: Withdrawal of Wendy Donigers book Hinduism: Alternative
History
Slide 37
c. Using the courts to decide the scholarship of an author is
wrong Counter Arguments: 1. Hinduism has a tradition of debate.
Wendy did not want to debate or the avenues for debate were closed
for the authors disagreeing with her opinion 2. This rule cannot be
applicable to only Hindus. What is fair for the goose is fair for
the gander. The IPC in question was initiated to protect "hurt
sentiments of Muslims in pre-independence India 3. This approach is
better than rioting (vishwaroopam case, Danish cartoon Prophet
Mohamed case, age old Salman Rushdie case). if the IPC is not
correct it can be changed, but the change should be applicable to
all d. Those objecting to the book are not educated, scholars and
hence dont have correct understanding of Hinduism Counter
Arguments: a. The books are written by authors like this are
prescribed as reading material in Indian universities ( and IAS/IPS
exams). Students reading this book dont have access to the material
that disputes the opinions of the author. Some of these people go
on to become administrators/educators. This gives negative bias
about their own religion to whole future generations b. Most of the
authors writing these books have only "bookish" knowledge of
hinduism and are not practitioners. Hence they dont have the
correct understanding of Hinduism as understood and practiced in
the 21st century c. Same arguments can be used against the
scholars. Most of the scholars done have enough knowledge of
sanskrit to understand the nuances of the sanskrit language. Many
words in sanskrit language have multiple meanings depending on the
context of language. Many of the books are based on the 2nd or 3rd
step away from the original sanskrit works, in fact based on the
English translations of the orginal works during colonial rule and
hence already carrying a bias against Hinduism Current Affairs:
Withdrawal of Wendy Donigers book Hinduism: Alternative
History
Slide 38
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Doctor ji, whose real
was Keshav Baliram Hedgewar is the founder of Sangh, RSS in Bharath
He was born on Varsha Pratipada (Yugaadi) in 1889, Apr 1 st He was
Doctor by training, Studied in Nagpur, Calcutta He was active in
many organizations before starting Sangh in 1925 After analyzing
the status of the society at that time and getting experience in
many organizations involved in freedom movement he came to the
conclusion that organizing the Hindu Society based on ideals of
Sanatana Dharma is the right thing to do. What he started as a
single Shakha in 1925 has now grown into huge tree spanning
continents and every sphere of activity of Hindu society with in
and outside Bharath.
Slide 39
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Heart Conquers Money:
When Pandit Madan Mohan Malaveeya was visiting Nagpur (1926),
P.P.Doctorjee brought him over to the then Sangha shakha, which was
held in the broken ruins of Mohitewada palace. Pandit Malaveeya was
overjoyed to see the inspired youth and their games. Looking at the
dilapidation and ruins surrounding the shakha ground, Pandit
Malaveeya thought that sangha must be facing a desperate shortage
of funds (which indeed, was the case). He said to P.P.Doctorjee:
"Doctor sahib, people call me " King of Beggars" - I am famous as a
fund-raiser. If you say so, I can beg around and raise some funds
for your organization. P.P.Doctorjee replied with humility:
"Panditji, I have a shortage of inspired manpower, not of money.
For our work, we seek blessings of elders like you, that is
sufficient." Pandit Malaveeya was stunned and speechless to hear
this. After a while, he said: "Doctorjee, my heart is filled with
joy - I have heard such a noble sentiment for the first time. You
put people above money; everywhere else the reverse is usually
true. I will spread the word about Sangha everywhere I go!" Story
of Rajaram Maharaj: Within 2 years of its beginning, the Sangha
shakha of Kolhapur (Maharashtra) was banned by the then king,
Rajaram Maharaj (in 1931). When Shri Pendharkar, a local worker
asked for P.P.Doctorjee's guidance, he told him to restart the
shakha after six months, with the name of Rajaram Swayamsevak
Sangh; on the birthday of Rajaram Maharaj. But then P.P.Doctorjee
never visited the shakha which was causing great anguish in the
swayamsevaks of Kolhapur. Upon their insistence P.P.Doctorjee once
visited Kolhapur, as the president of a local Hindu conference; and
then he visited the shakha. Even upon being invited several times,
Rajaram Maharaj did not come to the shakha during P.P.Doctorjee
visit. In his speech; P.P.Doctorjee said: "It give me great
pleasure to see the excellent Hindu youth activity of one Rajaram
Swayamsevak Sangh. I now remember with great reverence Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj. Your Rajaram Swayamsevak Sangha is drawing
inspiration for its Hindu activities, from his descendant,
Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj. We, from Nagpur, feel proud to report
to you that our shakhas too are drawing the Hindu inspiration from
the same source. The report of P.P.Doctorjee's speech reached
Chatrapati Rajaram Maharaj. He said, " At long last, P.P.Doctorjee
has won! With great cleverness, he has now brought even me and my
name to Sangha!"
Slide 40
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Doctorjee turns a
reluctant person into an ardent well-wisher: Once, Doctorjee met
with Dr. E. Raghavendra Rao, a leading personality (and an
ex-governor of Central Provinces) at Bilaspur. Dr. Rao said to him:
"Doctorjee, how long will you keep on building up your
organization? In M.P., I think it is sufficiently widespread. This
is the opportune time for you to build a powerful opposition party
challenging the weak-kneed congress". Doctorjee replied: "Our goal
is to serve the society. There are still many locations in this
province which don't have shakhas". Dr.Rao: "You can surely start
the shakhas while you are in politics?" Doctorjee: " Where is the
need for me to be in politics? It is sufficient, if well-meaning
people in political leadership are supportive of Sangha. Dr. Rao:
"What is the use of building such a mighty organization if it is
not used to get political power? Power will also help you overcome
obstacles in your work. Doctorjee: "Our work is to win over hearts
of people, it is not to go after political power." Thus, the
dialogue proceeded for a long time later, when we all (with
Doctorjee) got up to bid farewell. Dr. Rao said: "Well, Doctorjee
you are too deep. You have made me a talking machine!".
Slide 41
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Mahatma Gandhi jis
visit to Sangh Camp A memorable event in the year 1934 was the
visit of Mahatma Gandhi to the Wardha District Camp of the Sangh
and the meeting between Gandhiji and Doctorji. Gandhiji was then
camping at the Sevagram Ashram near Wardha. The Sangh camp was
right opposite that house. Near about 1,500 Swayamsevaks of Wardha
district were camping. Gandhiji had seen the preparations for
setting up the camp. He also observed the camp activities from his
residence and felt like seeing the camp from close quarters. He
spoke to Mahadev Desai who in turn wrote to Appaji Joshi. Appaji
immediately went and met Gandhiji and invited him : Please do come
whenever it is convenient for you. You will be most welcome. That
was the day of silence for Gandhiji. He wrote on a slip of paper :
I shall come at 6 tomorrow morning and shall spend an hour and a
half there. The next day, i.e. on 25th December 1934, Gandhiji
arrived at the Sangh camp punctually at 6 a.m. All the Swayamsevaks
offered their pranam to him. Gandhiji was accompanied by Mahadev
Desai, Mirabehn and a few others. After seeing the camp in its
impressive get-up, Gandhiji patted Appaji on his back and said : I
am really delighted. I have not witnessed such a sight anywhere in
the country before. He then inspected the kitchen. Food was
prepared and served to over 1,500 people without the least fuss or
confusion ; the cost to each Swayamsevak came to just one rupee and
a certain quantity of grain, and all the expenses of the camp were
met by this ; the Swayamsevaks themselves made up the shortfalls,
if any. All this information astonished Gandhiji. He later visited
the sick ward and the tents of the Swayamsevaks. He saw people of
all castes and classes harmoniously engaged in work without any
reservations. In order to confirm his observation, he interrogated
the Swayamsevaks themselves. Their response was uniform : There are
no differences like Brahmin, Maratha, Asprishyas, etc., in the
Sangh. We are in fact not even aware of what castes many of our
Swayamsevak brethren belong to ; nor are we interested in knowing
it. It is enough for us that we are all Hindus. Gandhiji asked
Appaji, It appears almost impossible to ward off the evil of
untouchability from our society. How has this phenomenon been made
possible in the Sangh ? Appaji replied, Feelings of high and low,
touchability and untouchability can be abolished only by
emphasizing the inherent oneness of all Hindus. Then only will the
spirit of fraternity be reflected in their sincere behaviour, and
not merely in words. The credit for this achievement goes to Dr.
Keshavrao Hedgewar. By then it was time for the general assembly.
The bugle was sounded. All the Swayamsevaks stood to attention.
Flag was hoisted. In accordance with the Sangh custom, Gandhiji
also joined Appaji in offering pranam to the Bhagawa Flag. Gandhiji
then visited the stores. Provisions and various requisites had been
neatly arranged. There was a decorated portrait prominently
displayed. Mahatmaji looked at it intently and enquired, Whose
portrait is this ? That portrait is of Dr. Hedgewar, replied
Appaji. Is that the same Dr. Keshavrao Hedgewar you mentioned when
we were talking about untouchability ? How is he connected with the
Sangh ? He is the Chief of the Sangh. We call him the
Sarsanghach5lak. All the activities of the Sangh are carried on
under his guidance. It is he who has started the Sangh. Will it be
possible to meet Dr. Hedgewar ? If possible I want to hear about
the Sangh from him directly. He is due to visit the camp tomorrow.
If you desire, we shall bring him to you. Contd
Slide 42
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Mahatma Gandhi jis
visit to Sangh Camp - Contd Gandhiji then returned to his Ashram.
Next morning, Doctorji arrived at the camp. That evening the
valedictory function was held under the presidentship of Bhopatkar
of Pune. Afterwards, at Gandhijis invitation, Doctorji went to meet
him, accompanied by Appaji Joshi and Bhopatkar. The discussion
between Doctorji and Gandhiji extended for over an hour. The
general trend of discussion was as follows. After preliminary
exchange of courtesies, Gandhiji turned to a point uppermost in his
mind : Doctorji, your organization is admirable. I am aware of the
fact that you were for many years a Congress worker. That being so,
why did you not build such a volunteer cadre under the aegis of a
popular organization like the Congress itself ? Why did you float a
separate organization ? It is true that I worked in the Congress. I
was also the Secretary of the Swayamsevak Dal at the time of the
1920 session of the Congress, when my friend Dr. Paranjpe was the
Dal President. Subsequently the two of us tried to build such a
volunteer cadre inside the Congress. But our efforts were not
successful. Hence this independent venture replied Doctorji. Why
did your attempt fail ? Was it for want of financial assistance ?
No, no ! There was no dearth of funds. Money can be a great help,
no doubt. But money alone cannot accomplish everything. The problem
that faced us was not one of money but of attitudes. Is it your
opinion that noble-hearted people were not there in the Congress,
or that they are not there now ? That isnt what I meant. There are
many well-meaning people in the Congress. What is at issue is
certain basic attitudes. The Congress has been formed primarily
with a view to achieving a political end. Its programmes have also
been drawn up accordingly, and it needs volunteers to arrange for
these programmes. The Congress leaders are therefore used to
looking upon volunteers as unpaid servants who arrange chairs and
benches during meetings and conferences. The Congress does not seem
to believe that the problems of the nation can effectively be
solved only when there is a large and disciplined body of dedicated
Swayamsevaks who are eager to serve the country of their own accord
and without waiting for inspiration from elsewhere. What exactly is
your conception of a Swayamsevak ? A Swayamsevak is one who would
lovingly lay down his life for the all-round upliftment of the
nation. To create and mould such Swayamsevaks is the aim of the
Sangh. There is no distinction between a `Swayamsevak and a leader
in Sangh. All of us are Swayamsevaks and are therefore equal. We
love and respect everybody equally. We give no room for any
differences in status. This is in fact the secret of the remarkable
growth of the Sangh in such a short period without any outside
help, money or publicity. I am indeed very glad. The country will
certainly be benefited by the success of your efforts. I have heard
of the vast following the Sangh has acquired in the Wardha
district. How do you meet the expenses of such a huge organization
? The Swayamsevaks themselves bear the burden, each offering his
mite as Gurudakshina. It looks as if your entire time is consumed
by this work. How do you carry on your medical profession ? I have
not taken to medicine as a profession. How then are you supporting
your family ? I am not married. Gandhiji was evidently taken by
surprise. In the same surprised tone he said, I see you are not
married ! Very good. That explains the remarkable degree of success
you have achieved in such a short duration ! At the end, Doctorji
said, I have probably taken too much of your time. I have no doubt
that, with your blessings, our efforts will succeed. Permit us to
take your leave now. Gandhiji came up to the door to bid farewell,
and said, Doctorji, with your character and sincerity, there is no
doubt you will succeed. Doctorji offered his prandm to Gandhiji and
returned to the camp.
Slide 43
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life No Work is Small At
the spot where the RSS Karyalaya (Dr. Hedgewar Bhavan) stands
today, there was a dilapidated, ancient "Mohitewada" (place of the
Mohite Dynasty) building in the past. It actually was little better
than a heap of broken bricks and stones. It was also a garbage
dumping place for people in the area. Since in 1925, we
Swayamsevaks could not get any other grounds to play games, we
decided to clean up this area. On the assigned clean-up day, I was
dumbfounded to see that Doctorjee was the first to arrive, and he
was cleaning up, removing dirty, stinking, rotting garbage with
great enthusiasm. This was a great lesson to the rest of us: Any
work of Sangha, however small or big, important or not, even the
chief of RSS (Sarasanghachalak) will personally do it. In every
small or big event, his behavior gave us the message that he was
one among all other Swayamsevaks, and that he expected no special
treatment. He came, like all others, to the shakha on time, wore
the Ganavesh (uniform) and participated in all the shakha
activities. In those days when high school students shied away from
holding the Danda (stick) in the hand (it was considered not
fashionable), how can I forget the sight of Doctorjee in Poorna
Ganavesh (full uniform) doing Patha Sanchalan (Parade) holding his
Danda (stick) proudly? Where else can we see such a glowing example
of self-sacrifice, of merging one's personality and ego in to the
Sangha idealism?
Slide 44
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Distinguish Between
Temporary and Long Term National Benefit In the mid 1930s, many
swayamsevaks from Bhagya Nagar (today's Hyderabad, A.P.) had become
anxious to jump into the Freedom struggle of Bharat by
participating in "Satyagraha"s (Civil Obedience). They were hopeful
that P.P. Doctorjee would readily agree to this proposal, since he
himself had been in the "Satyagraha" in 1930 (he had been jailed
for several months). But Sangha work had grown by leaps and bounds
by this time. So, P.P. Doctorjee said: "I appeal to you to consider
all aspects of your proposal. In two more months, we will have the
summer O.T.C. (Officers Training Camp") of Sangha in this area. In
this important activity, the seeds of Sangha's future will be sown.
Please identify those workers who will be needed for this work and
keep them away from the satyagraha, so that the Hindu society and
the nation of Bharat do not lose on their own future. It may feel
nice to participate in the agitation phase of satyagraha. For this,
you may be considered to be a virtuous, Freedom Fighter. But we all
must avoid the cardinal sin of canceling the OTC, thus putting back
Sangha work by a year until next summer comes along!" This
convinced the workers. In the face of mammoth waves of occasional
patriotic fervor, the swayamsevaks were able to remain steadfast
and true to Sangha work. They did participate in satyagraha, but in
batches, so that both Sangha work and satyagraha participation got
the boost.
Slide 45
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Value Heart over
Money: At the O.T.C camp in 1935 at Nagpur city college, the chief
guest was Babu Padmaraj Jain, a wealthy businessman who was also
deeply interested in Sangha work. Shri Mama Saheb Chitale, a senior
Sangha worker, explained to Shri Jain the dire need of money faced
by Sangha, including the facts about P.P.Doctorjee's own life of
extreme poverty. Being a kind hearted man, Shri Jain agreed to help
Sangha out financially. Shri Chitale ji was overjoyed. He rushed to
P.P.Doctorjee and gave him the "good news". P.P.Doctorjee merely
smiled and said nothing. Next day, in the Baithak, P.P.Doctorjee
stressed that Shri Jain should actively support Sangha work, by
starting new shakhas in his native Bengal. Shri Chitale ji
intervened : "Also there is the matter of money....". Interrupting
his sentence, P.P.Doctorjee said: "Shri Jain ji, in order to
strengthen Sangha work in Bengal, please send as many young boys to
O.T.C camps, as possible. Money is of secondary importance". Being
the elder person, Shri Chitale ji said again: " Shri Jain ji,
please do not listen to P.P.Doctorjee. You are seeing for yourself
the dire need for money. Please donate money, and to make
P.P.Doctorjee happy, please send a few boys to the O.T.C. camps"
Several people in the Baithak, including Shri Jain, burst out into
laughter. P.P.Doctorjee said :"Shri Chitale ji, I respect you. But
please see, if Shri Jain ji's heart and soul is in Sangha work, why
do we need to worry so much about money? Shri Jain ji smiled, and
nodded his agreement. Everyone present there agreed to
P.P.Doctorjee's statement. Shri Chitale, however, remained
unconvinced. He was muttering: "Look, here was golden opportunity I
had created to make some money for Sangha, P.P.Doctorjee just
squandered it away!".
Slide 46
Inspiring Incidents from Doctor jis life Oranges from Nagpur
Won't sell in Pune: In the 1932 Baithak in Pune for inauguration of
the Sangha Shakha, P.P.Doctorjee was confronted with several
arguments from the "high intellectuals" of Pune. One person said:
"Since we Pune-ites are high intellectuals every street corner here
has half a dozen social groups. Everyone follows his own thoughts.
Is it possible to have a "Sangha" type organization here ?" Another
person said: "Doctorjee, you don't know the mentality of Pune
people. They are not accustomed to do anything in co-operation with
one another. The only time four Hindus walk here together, in the
same direction, is when they are carrying a fifth one on their
shoulders - i.e. in a funeral procession, carrying the dead body.
Finally, a very famous man said: "Doctorjee, your Nagpur oranges
will never sell here!" P.P.Doctorjee quietly listened to all. He
did not get into any argument with anybody. Next day, he started
the shakha. Within a few years, it grew into a mighty organization
with literally thousands of swayamsevaks attending; in full uniform
to boot. In one Sangha Utsav (festival celebration) the afore
mentioned very famous man was invited as the chief guest. He
reminisced about his old statement and said in his speech
:"P.P.Doctorjee, your Nagpur oranges have become very precious here
in Pune". At this P.P.Doctorjee again merely smiled. That was his
way. He answered most questions by deeds, not words.
Slide 47
Hindu Unity Day(Hindu Sanghatana Divas) Shivajis Coronation Day
in 1674 A.D., at Raigadh in Maharashtra The thirteenth day of the
bright half of Jyeshtha Vowed in the presence of God to achieve
Hindavi Swaraj at the age of 14. Whole of Hindustan was under
Mughal Control Motivated people to strive and sacrifice for the
establishment of a Hindu State Great Hindi bard Bhushana, who
declined the royal favors of the Moghal court to come over to
Shivaji to record his glories, sang: Kashiji ki kalaa jaati,
Mathura masjid hoti | Shivaji na hote to sunnat hoti sab ki || (The
artistic beauty of Benaras would have perished, Mathura would have
turned into a masjid, and all would have been circumcised, had not
Shivaji been born).
Slide 48
Hindu Unity Day(Hindu Sanghatana Divas) Swami Vivekananda spoke
of him in these glowing terms: "Shivaji is one of the greatest
national saviours who emancipated our society and our Dharma when
they were faced with the threat of total destruction. He was a
peerless hero, a pious and God-fearing king and verily a
manifestation of all the virtues of a born leader of men described
in our ancient scriptures. He also embodied the deathless spirit of
our land and stood as the light of hope for our future." Cover some
incidents of Shivajis life story (see link in the notes as well)
Cover some incidents of Shivajis life story
Slide 49
Hindu Unity Day(Hindu Sanghatana Divas) Chhatrapati Shivaji:
Inspiration for Vietnamese There is a Statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji
Maharaj in HO CHI MI of Vietnam. They installed it as a tribute to
the great king of India. During the Vietnam war, people used to
study the guerrilla war tactics from the style of Shivaji. A small
country like Vietnam brought a mighty USA to its knees. President
of Vietnam was asked by reporters, how could they achieve that
feat? He replied that I read the character & deeds of a great
king, who inspired me to try his war tacticts against the US
Forces..and the success just followed. When asked who was the king,
he replied Shivaji. He further added that had such a king been born
in Vietnam, we would have ruled the world After the death of the
said Vietnamese President, he had it inscribed on his tombstone
Shivaji Maharajas One Mavla, has achived Samadhi (Since Shivajis
soldiers belonged to Maval region of Maharashtra, they were called
Mavlas) A few years later the Vietnamese, lady Foreign Minister
visited India, and as per SOP conducted to Red Fort and Gandhis
Samadhi. She asked where is Shivajis Samadhi ? The Govt officials
went into a flutter, and replied that at Raigadh. She expressed her
desire to visit the same. On reaching the Samadhi at Raigadh, &
paying her tributes, she picked up the soil around the samadhi and
and put it into her briefcase. When questioned by reporters, she
answered This soil is of land of braves..once I return to Vietnam,
I will mix it with soil of my country, so that brave people like
Shivaji born there.