From mainly “Bhakti Mala” - HH Sri Swamiji’s monthly magazine
published from Mysore Ashram since 1977

- later also from www.dattapeetham.com
and other sources 

In almost three decades Guru Purnima has been reported in Mysore Ashrams monthly magazine “Bhakti Mala”, starting in 1984.

Bhakti Mala is a treasure chest in Ashram history and are reminding us of the great effort HH Sri Swamiji has made over the years to teach us simplicity and good conduct.

As HH Sri Swamiji’s organisation developed into what we see today, so has the Guru Purnima celebrations developed into an elaborate and very important part of the activities around Sri Swamiji.

The search in the old magazines shows the development on all levels and especially of the techniques used: From a letter sent from Trinidad in 1984 to Mysore, to Dattapeetham’s homepage, YouTube videos, devotees personal blocks and photo collections etc. etc.
Before year 2000 Guru Purnima took place partly in Mysore Ashram and partly abroad. From 2000 Guru Purnima was celebrated mostly in USA as a part of Sri Swamiji’s extensive travels there during the summer season.

The spelling from the old articles are kept.

1977, May – “Bhakti Mala”
 

“Bhakti Mala”, HH Sri Swamiji’s monthly magazine is published for the first time in English in the end of 1976. What more appropriate for this search in the old magazines than to start with the front page in May 1977:

Guru Dhyanam – mediation on Guru

“The Guru dwells in the Sahasrara, the thousand petalled lotus. He is bright with every cool beam of light. His boon–giving and courage–inspiring hands give in all the assurance we need. He wears such sandal-paste and flowers and apparel (garments) as show up his immaculate being. His face and looks are full of grace. He has in himself the form and essence of every divinity. He has, indeed become Brahma. Address him as such, meditate on him.”

Bhakti Mala, May 1977, front page.

1984, July 13^th - Trinidad

First time Guru Purnima is mentioned in Bhakti Mala is in a letter from Sri Sriramesh, written in Port of Spain, Trinidad July 15^th 1984:
As already written in my previous letter the programmes are all going well. (…) On Friday the devotees here performed Pada Puja to Sri Swamiji on the occasion of Guru Purnima. Sri Swamiji explained the meaning of Lord Dattatreya and especially that of Adi Guru Namaka. “One who surrenders to the Guru completely, will receive His Grace and help”- said Sri Swamiji.
Bhakti Mala, August 1984, p. 10
 

1985, July 2^nd – Mysore Ashram, India

Guru Purnima was observed in a grand manner on the evening of 2-7-85 after Datta Homa. Guru-paadukaas were worshipped followed by a lucid and absorbing talk on Guru Gita by Sri M. Krishnamurthy, Manager of the Ashram & Editor of Bhakti Mala. The function concluded with distribution of Prasad.
Bhakti Mala, August 1985, p. 19
 

1986, July 24^th – Bay City, (150miles from) Houston, Texas, USA

This year “Datta Stava”, the most important Ashram Prayer is introduced and Sri Swamiji’s speech is brought in full length for the first time in a full report as we see them today:

“Today being Gurupooja day (Thursday) for Hindus, many people have had the darshan of Swamiji here in the Bay city. Datta Pada pooja was performed by devotees to Swamiji here. One hundred & eight names of Lord Dattatreya were chanted with 10 verses of a chanting called Dattastava to Swamiji. Swamiji stressed the importance of stava to all the devotees.

In the evening Bhajan session, Swamiji sang many Bhajans. Among them were Jai Jai Ganapathy Mangalakari, Pavosarana, Krishnam Vishnum and other Datta bhajans. These are th moments of bliss for devotees of Swamiji. These are precious moments for all of them.

Swamiji explained the significance of Dattatreya, the Guru principle to American devotees.
“Datta is the most ancient figure in Hindu pantheon. He existed even before Rama & Krishna, Dharmaraja. He was the Guru for Janaka Maharaja. All Saptarshis understood his leelas. Datta means gift - a gift to Atri & Anasuya. Datta also means one beyond the three qualities of Rajas, Tamas & Satva. Datta is total renunciation. Complete self surrender to Him will incur His blessings. Datta tells us that body is not important, but the spirit is the true self. Body is comparable to the wooden log. This log called body is moving because of this spirit. Spirit is the most powerful and all pervading entity. The whole cosmos is filled by that. That is knowledge & wisdom also. Go beyond the realms of body & mind. Understand Datta. You devotees these days do not have time for contemplation, meditation & other disciplines. Sing the name of Lord & his glory. That is the first step. You should have an open mind & an open approach. Datta is also Trinity, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. He is originator of I-ness, protects with the help of I-ness & finally destroys the I-ness (ego is termed as I-ness here by Swamiji). Unless and until ego is subdued & controlled, you will not visualise your immensely powerful spirit. You have You have all limited your personalities because of your I-ness. The real “I” is spirit only. Go to the source of I in ou & you will experience what you are. That is all Vedanta. Guru kripa is nessesary. You cannot become Jnanis overnight. In how many births Swamiji has done Sadhana to have such a body in this birth. This is Mother Jayalakshmi Devi’s blessings. Goddess Rajeswari is Jayalakshmi Devi. My Mother is cosmic mother. You are reflected in this Sadguru murti. Guru is the mirror. All your short comings, strong points are reflected here in Guru. Guru is ever merged in equanimity. Guru does not undergo vacillations of mind. He is without change. Guru is Satya (tyuth) & and the whole truth. Guru seva is everything in this world. That is meditation. There is nothing greater than Guru. Do not go to the source of Guru. Do not doubt the Gurutatva in Guru. You have no right & capacity to do so. This is told by Dattatreya long ago. You are worshipping the root (pada) of Guru today. Start from feet and come to the head portion. The roots of wisdom are in the feet. That is why feet are worshipped.”

Swamiji sang the song Guru Padamu and explained the meaning of the song to all the devotees. “Guru pooja is performed in the residence of a neighbouring house in Bay City. Do not waste precious time in arguments, logic and useless gossip. When Swamiji comes to somebody’s house, He finds them busy in cooking things in the kitchen. They forget the Guru the sacred company of Guru & keep themselves busy in the kitchen preparing kichdi & chatni. What a pity! Swamiji tells them to come and sit in prayers for a few moments. Bhajan first & bhojan later says Swamiji. Make use of Swamiji’s visit well and them think of other duties.
Swamiji played on the harmonium. Swamiji sang Guruke saman nahi doosare jahanme. Here is none compatible to Guru & His greatness in all the three worlds, is the meaning of this Bhajan.”
Bhakti Mala, October & November 1986, p. 18
 

1987, July 11^th – London, UK

On 11-787 Saturday, Guru-poornima was observed. Elaborate arrangements had been made months in advance for this very important and auspicious occasion, in keeping with the age-old tradition.
Gurupoornima is the day when all spiritual seekers worship their gurus or masters and offer obeisance. It is a recognition of the guru-sishya parampara or the tradition or line of teacher-disciple. It is only he/she who follows their tradition with faith and sincerity that can reach the goal.
A handsome and exquisitely printed souvenir containing very attractive photos of Lord Dattatreya and Sri Swamiji worth preserving and articles deserving earnest reading was brought out to mark that unforgettable event.
An unusually large number of devotees took part in the worship. This particular visit of Sri Swamiji in a way created an awakening among the devotees, specially the Indian community in England.
Bhakti Mala, July-August 1987, p. 25

1990 July 7^th, Mysore Ashram, India

Guru Poornima was observed on 7-7-90 with great fervour and enthusiasm. That their Guru was present in person on that day to receive their offerings of devotion was a matter of supreme satisfaction to Poojya Sri Swamiji’s innumerable devotees. The spacious hall in the Ashrama was overflowing with the devotees when the function commenced in the evening. As it was Guru Purnima (full moon day) Datta Homa took place on the platform. Poojya Sri Swamiji offered Poornahuti, blessed the participants with Homa Prasad and took the seat specially arranged and decorated for the purpose.

The function began with a smart demonstration of Yogasanas by the pupils of the Ashrama togashala. As a token of his appreciation Poojya Sri Swamiji blessed them with Prasad. Guru Strotra was chanted in chorus and the devotees submitted their devotion-full offerings at the feet of their Sadguru Poojya Sri Swamiji.

Sri Bhagavat, Executive Trustee of Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Trust, explained the significance of Guru Poornima, and said that we were observing Guru Poornima in its true sense this year and that it was the fruit of the long and rigorous “tapas” performed by all of us all these eight years.

Speaking about “tradition” (Parmapara or Sampradaya), Sri Krishna Murthy, Ashram Manager said: “Guru Purnima has a long and unbroken tradition. On that day all Sadhus, Saints, Samnyasis, Pontiffs and householders remember their Guru and offer worship to him. Here we can see the living tradition of Guru-Sishya in action. It is said that this tradition has Narayana as its root and in support of this, the following verse were quoted:

Narayana samarambham
Samkarachaarya paryantaam l
Asmadaachaarya paryantaam
Vande Guru paramparam ll

But such an unbroken line of Guru – disciple does not appear to exist among Avadhootas following Datta Prabhu. All the Avadhootas – past and present acknowledge Adi Guru Datta only as their Guru. Ages have passed since Datta Bhagavan’s manifestation.

Till now countless Avadhootas have appered. But in none of them can be perceived any sing of Guru – disciple tradition. While living almost all the Avadhootas manifested their mysterious powers through miracles baffling and blinding even the sceptics, and attained glory on account of their superhuman spiritual power.

But there are no authentic record to show that any one of those Avadhootas accepted officially and formally any one as their disciples. Besides, Avadhoota is not an “Ashrama” like Samnyas which is optional. A person has unfettered freedom to take Samnyas or continue in his former Ashrama. But the case of Avadhoota is quite different. Avadhoota is a state which is considered to be beyond even Param Paramahamsa Sanyaas. It can neither be taken nor given up. One is an Avadhoota by birth.

Many instances of born Avadhootas are available. In some, the Avadhoota atate will be atent, and at the appropriate time and circumstances, becomes patent. An illustrious example of such an Avadhoota is our own Param Poojya Sri Swamiji. His disciples, devotees and followers are waiting to see wether he establishes a new tradition by formally proclaiming any one as his successor to the Peetha, or prefers to follow the previous great Avadhootas who disappeared without leaving any successor.”

Blessing the gathering, Pujya Sri Swamiji said:
“The Sun and the Moon are the sources of light for this world. The Moon waxes for a fortnight in a month and wanes during the other fortnight. On the full moon day Moon shines in his full glory. That day is reckoned as “Parva”. On that day Moon’s influence on the Earth and the people living on it will be great. Therefor seekers prefer that day to receive “Mantropadesha”, as it is believed that an Upadesa (instruction) given or taken on that day acquires added power. The bright half of a month is considered auspicious for house-holders to receive upadesha or to undertake upaasana. Those who undertake saadhana (spiritual discipline) in the dark half of a month, attain fulfilment quickly. The dark half of a month is conductive to acquire jnaana. Therefore this half of a month is very dear to the aspirants. Guru Poornima is the day on which a Guru usually initiates a disciple. It is a day for the disciple to worship is Guru.”

After Poojya Swamiji’s benediction, the resident pupils of the Ashrama Gurukula, worshipped Poojya Sri Swamiji with sixteen kinds of poojas ordained by scriptures, and obtained his blessings.

During the Guru Purnima function the “Sri Bhakti Mala Trust” was created by Sri Swamiji created, so that “Bhakti Mala” could continue as a permanent arrangement and be printed and published from Mysore Ashram, as hitherto.
Bhakti Mala, September 1990, p.16

1994 July 22^nd, Mysore Ashram, India

On July 22^nd 1994 Guru Purnima was celebrated in Mysore Ashram. The premises of the “Sri Guru Nilaya” were under construction and the “Universal Prayer Hall was inaugurated. Many dignitaries had come to the Peetham, amongst others the Minister of Andhra Pradesh and a daughter of the Prime Minister of India.

After Sri Chakra Puja in the morning, Poojya Sri Swamiji performed Tailabisheka to Lord Dattatreya. Later, Pooja with Kumkum was performed to Goddess Vishalakshi on this auspicious Friday of the month of Ashadha. Vidvan Satyanarayana delivered a lecture on “Greatness of Guru”. After this, yogasana demonstration by the yoga students of the Ashram took place. Pratyaksha Pada Pooja was performed to Gurudev Sri Swamiji. After this, many devotees narrated their divine experiences with Poojya Sri Swamiji. The morning celebrations concluded with Sri Swamiji’s benedictory address (is not referred). In the evening, on the occasion of the full moon day, Pavamana Homa and Dattatreya Homa were performed. It was on this auspicious day that the “Adi Guru” incarnation of Lord Dattatreya manifested.
Bhakti Mala, August 1994, p. 16
 

1995, July 12^th – Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA

“The Guru Purnima celebrated on 12^th July was very significant. A big banner wishing welcome to Sri Swamiji to the city of Baton Rouge was hung in front of the building where the functions were held. The American national flag and the Indian Tricolour were seen fluttering atop the building. Nearly thousand devotees, many of them Americans, took part in the celebrations. On the auspicious occasion of Guru Poornima, mass Gurupooja was conducted. Sri Swamiji preached the Dattatreya Mantra to all those who had gathered there on this occasion and explained in detail the significance of the Guru-Shisya relationship.

During the course of the function, six CD’s containing Sri Swamiji’s music and Bhajans were released. Sri Radha Krishna, who was assigned the work of Datta Seva by Sri Swamiji, gave an account of the activities conducted by him during the past eight months of his stay in the US. The members of the Dattatreya Yoga Center of USA thanked Sri Swamiji for having commissioned His able disciple Sri Radha Krishna to USA.

Doulat Sthanki, an ardent devotee of Sri Swamiji donated a piece of land in Baton Rouge to Datta Yoga Center. Sri Swamiji consented to a proposal of building a Dattatreya Temple Complex in this land.”

“Sadguru Gurupoornima”
Sri Swamiji’s speech on July 11^th in Baton Rouge:
“In Ramayana, we come across the narration of how Sage Vasistha strived as Rama’s Guru. The role of Sage Vasistha in transforming Rama’s personality into a Divine being is very important. By this we can understand that even in the lives of Divine beings, Sadgurus play an important role in moulding the personality. Similary, Sadguru is indispensable for all those who undertake spiritual Sadhana. We come across the role of Sandeepa in the life of Lord Krishna.
Tomorrow is Vyaasa Poornima. Vyaasa is the Guru of Gurus. Refining one’s intellect and samskara with the blessing of Sadguru and thereby ascending the spiritual ladder is the real significance of celebrating Guru Purnima. Guru has a key role to play in the spiritual practise and development of a being. Sadguru behaves like a catalyst. His mere presence is enough. In His Divine presence, the seeker will achieve great heights in the field of spirituality. Guru has another important ability. No doubt the individual has to suffer his previous karma. But Guru can sometimes take the disciple’s karma on Himself and lessen his burden. On some occasions, the Guru may even take all the Prarabdha Karmas of His disciple. Because Guru has such great powers, Guru Poornima has acquired great significance.”

Gukarah prathama varno
Mayadi gunabhasakah l
Rukarosti param Brahma
Maya bhramti vimochakah ll

Meaning: “The first syllable “GU” belongs to the three Gunas which are the cause of illusion.
The second one “RU” stands for the “Parabrahma” that destroys the delusion caused by illusion.”
(Guru Gita, verse 33)
Bhakti Mala, September 1995, p. 11-13
 

1996, July 30^th, Mysore Ashram, India

In August 1996 the celebration took place on July 30^th in the new premises of “Guru Nilayam” which were nearing completion.

On the occasion of Guru Poornima, special celebrations took place in the Ashram on 30 July. The sacred Pavamana Homma and Tailabishekam to Lord Dattatreya took place in the morning. In the afternoon “Sri Guru Stuti Mala”, a book containing 108 verses in praise of Lord Dattatreya was released. Who could have known that Sri Venkateswara Rao, one of Sri Swamiji’s teachers in His childhood was present in the gathering? When Sri Swamiji called out the name of Venkateswara Rao, the whole gathering was stunned. How could Sri Swamijiremember a person who taught Him alphabets nearly 45 years ago? Even more surprising is, how could Sri Swamiji possibly know for sure that this man, who was visiting the Ashram for the first time was sitting amidst the huge crowd? The book being released was a rare manuscript lying in the house of a Datta devotee living in some South Indian town. It took 7-8 years to publish this manuscript. What a co-incidence! Look at the good fortune of this person Venkateswara Rao, who, on the sacred day of Guru Purnima, had the darshan of the Guru and was asked to release a book about Guru Datta! The ways of the mystics are mysterious indeed!

Later Sri Swamiji released the booklet titled “Hanuman Sahasranama” published by the Vishnu Sahasranama Parayana Samiti of Mysore.

Sanjeevini Ambulance: The van which Sri Swamiji had promised to the department arrived. It was named as Sanjeevini (life giver). This van was formally handed over to the police at 11.30 am. Sri Kempaiah, the new commissioner of Police, who received the van keys from Sri Swamiji, praised Pujya Sri Swamiji for His generosity and humanity and promised that the van would be put to proper use. In His speech, Sri Swamiji wished that no road accidents should occur. This van was offered by Sri Y. Rama Mohana Rao in the fond memory of his departed mother. Sri Swamiji blessed the donors for their gesture.

The students of the Veda Pathashala of the Ashram performed Pratyakksha Pada Pooja to Sri Swamiji in the evening. In the Satsang session, Sri Swamiji explained the importance of the Guru.
“In ancient days, one could accomplish everything by the power of the Mantras. Gradually, because of the evil effect of Kali, the mental capabilities of men decreased. It has therefore become necessary for people to serve the Guru through the other two means, physical service and financial service. Only then they can accomplish something.
Without Guru Seva, no spiritual practice is complete. How long should one serve Guru? Till one leaves the physical body,” said Sri Swamiji. As if to make these words more authoritative, Sri Swamiji sang the Gurvashtaka composed by Sri Shankaracharya and explained its meaning. With this, the Guru Poornima celebrations concluded.”
Bhakti Mala, August 1996
 

Other quotes from Sri Swamiji’s Guru Purnima 1996 speech

1997, July 20^th – Trinity Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA

“(…) As it was Guru Purnima, Sri Swamiji was worshipped by thousands of devotees who had come from far and wide.

His Holiness Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji of Avadhoota Datta Peetham Mysore, consecrated the Datta Temple & Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, U.S.A. Sri Swamiji performed Praana Prathishta for Lord Ganapathi, Anagha Devi Sameta Lord Dattatreya, and Lord Siva on Guru Purnima day, July 20, 1997. The first Datta temple outside India was inaugurated at Datta Retreat Center, West Sunbury, Pennsylvania (USA). The second Datta temple was constructed in Trinidad & Tobago. Datta Temple & Hall of Trinity is the third Dattatreya temple Sri Swamiji's devotees built outside India.”

Sri Swamiji with Kalasha on his head

Bhakti Mala, August 1997 – photos of the consecration on back-side cover.

2000, July 16^th – Durga Temple, Dayton, New Jersey, USA

On Sunday the 16^th July, Guru Purnima was celebrated at the Durga Temple in Dayton, New Jersey. Sri Swamiji performed Sri Chakra Puja at 10 AM. (…) Maha Ganapati Homam was performed. To mark the occasion of Guru Purnima, Pada Puja was performed to Sri Swamiji. Later Sri Swamiji gave the Guru Purnima speech.

Sri Swamiji visited the Durga Temple construction site and was taken around by the President of the temple and the Priest Sri Joshiji. Sri Swamiji touched and blessed the idols which were still in the package.

Then Sri Swamiji materialised Vibhooti from a flower garland. He said it was for the sick and distressed persons. Thereafter each person came and offered Pranams to Sri Swamiji. Before leaving Sri Swamiji visited the temporary altar of the temple and Arati was performed. Si Swamiji then proceeded to the group of Bhajan singers and joined them. Sri Swamiji led them to sing one Bhajan on each deity that will be consecrated when the temple is completed. This impromptu gesture of Sri Swamiji was very moving.

In the evening Satsang was held at the senior citizens hall in Dayton.
Bhakti Mala, August 2000, p. 23

“New Jersey devotees are very very lucky. Sri Swamiji has given them the boon of having their Sadguru with them on this auspicious GURU PURNIMA DAY. Earlier Swamiji was thinking of celebrating it in Baton Rouge. You all are very lucky. Not all in this crowd is a believer. One who says, "There is no God" is also a devotee. One who declares there is no God has to understand the concept and then prove there is no God. But By then he will get self-realisation. One who gives guidance is a Guru. How can we find a genuine Guru? There are different types of Gurus. Guru is one who removes our darkness. We must follow the Guru without any wishes. We have to pray him to remove our darkness in us. We have to inquire about self-realisation. We have to ask questions like who am I? Why I came here (being born) again and again? We should never ask silly things. We have to surrender completely. We should try to become good devotees. Swamiji asks some devotees to do Mantra Japa, perform Annadana etc.; Swamiji will assign different jobs to different types of devotees. This is left to Guru himself. Bhakta should not decide how the Guru should be. We are not capable of selecting Gurus. There is a story regarding this. Lord Shankaracharya had a big band of knowledgeable pundits around him. The pundits were claiming that they should also get equal respect as Shankaracharya. He walks towards a meat stall and asked the shopkeeper to give him some meat, as he was hungry. The pundits also followed the lord and everybody ate the Non-vegetarian food. While continuing his journey the lord went to a blacksmith's workshop and asked for some water, as he was very thirsty. But the blacksmith replied that drinking water is not available at his work place. Meanwhile, the lord saw the molten iron and drank the liquid metal to quench his thirst. The pundits were not able to do this. The pundits, ashamed of this act prostrated to Shankaracharya and requested him to forgive them for their shameful act. We should not look at the dress of the Guru. We should run towards spirituality. Spirituality will not come to you. We have three types of qualities, Satva, Rajo and Tamo Gunas. If you have Satva Guna, the Guru will come to you. If you have Rajo Guna you have to go the Guru. The Tamo Guna people do not believe in God. The Rajo Guna people should be careful. By controlling our emotions we have to surrender to our Sadguru step by step and in a slow manner.”

Speech and photos from: http://www.dattapeetham.com/india/tours/tour2000/usa/newjersey/newjersey.html
 

2001, July 7^th, Mysore Ashram

On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima on 7-7-2001, Avadhoota Datta Peetham donated 20 sewing machines to “Shakti Dhama”, an organization for women rehabilitation in Mysore.
The gift was received on behalf of the organization by its founder, Smt. Parvatamma Rajkumar, wife of the popular matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar.
Bhakti Mala, August 2001, p. 23

2002, July 24^th, Sri Rama Temple, Lemont, Chicago, USA

“The most important event of the tour - the Guru Purnima celebration took place in Sri Rama Temple, Lemont, Chicago on 24th July 2002.

Sri Swamiji wearing white robes arrived at 8 AM and first performed Sri Chakra Puja.

Swami Manasa and Prasad performed Pada Puja to Sri Swamiji on this auspicious occasion. More than 500 devotees who had assembled participated in the Pada Puja. Sri Swamiji manifested Vibhooti from the flower garland and it was distributed to all.

Sri Swamiji called all children below 9 years of age and gave them small gold lockets with the first alphabet of their name etched on it. Sri Swamiji later released the video documentary of the recent 60th Birthday celebrations at Mysore Ashrama.

Later, Nisha Modha gave a Bharatnatyam dance performance for 25 minutes. Upadrashta Satyanarayana spoke about Guru Tattva.

Sri Swamiji blessed all present with a spiritual healing stone of their birth month.

Chicago devotees presented Sri Swamiji a huge cake and Sri Swamiji cut the same.

In the evening Sri Swmiji sang the verses of Guru Ashtaka.

Sri V.R Raman gifted 108 Bhakti Mala annual subscriptions to those who could not afford it. Si Swamiji commented the same and exhorted devotees to emulate his action.”

Sri Swamiji then gave discourse thus:

“Sri Ganeshaya Namaha. Sri Sarasvatyei Namaha. Sari Pada Vallabha Narasimha Sarasvati Sri Guru Dattatreyaya Namaha.

So many inquire about the importance of Guru Purnima. GU means all types of Karmas and sins. RU means vanquishing it. Guru gives Atma Jnana. Guru is a powerful word. Purnima or full moon means fulfilment. If you surrender to Sadguru, he will give fulfilment i.e. Ananda. Full moon means Ananda. There is no direct relation between moon and Guru but it is only symbolic. There is dark moon and full moon. Disciples journey from dark moon day to full moon day. i.e. path to enlightenment. That is the meaning of Guru Purnima. This custom of Guru Purnima started with the Sage Vyasa. He started it. Sadguru Dattatreya took form on Purnima day (full moon day). The Shloka Guru Brahma says that Guru has the three qualities of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Create, maintain and destroy. If you keep on chanting Sadguru Mantra, you will get anything. Finally you get Ananda. If you surrender, he will destroy your sins, confusions, suffering births and free the soul. He gives freedom to the Atma which merges in Paramatma. We must learn to properly worship Sadguru and think about him always.

Disciples have to remember their Sadguru on this day. Dattatreya was the first Sadguru. He took form because we all are Karma Jeevis. We suffer because of our Karma and our own mistakes. It takes different forms and torments you. Who gave us this Manava Janma? Why should I suffer? Why this struggle? And why the struggle to search for Ananda? We don’t understand these worldly affairs. We get tempted by them and then we realize and we look for Sadguru to give us Ananda. We must surrender to a Sadguru and he gives us good vibration, protection and Ananda. We perform Mothers day, father’s day and now we do Guru Day. The other forms of Days are more and more Karma adding day. But on Guru Purnima day our Karmas vanish. Karma adds up in other types of celebratory day. Because we get more attached to the worldly bondage and Karma grows.

Many people search for the truth. The heart is always truthful. Happiness itself is truth. Finding Sadguru and worshipping Him is Truth and happiness. It looks as though he gives you confusion, happiness and enjoyment. But he is only a witness to your Karma performance. He is like a mirror. It gets no Punya or merit. Mirror just reflects what you are. Guru is like that. He reflects your state. If you give any thing, he gives it back. You must practice truth, devotion and love. Then definitely he will give more of it to you. How long can you take these births? Human life is 20% happiness and 80 % unhappiness. Just close your eyes and think, Life seems useless and just a drama. You can panic about this and get afraid. Don’t worry. It is a lesson you learn to correct yourself. I am an accountant keeping balance of your sins, bad feelings etc. Sadguru is an accountant, carpenter, black smith, and a protective good angel. He assumes different forms depending on that situation. Because it is His responsibility to take you to Ananda Loka. It is a difficult phenomenon to explain. Many cannot logically explain why you follow a Sadguru. Trying to find answer will land in more troubles. Don’t discuss and you wont get disgusted. Just simply follow. Brahma Loka is the place from where we came. It is a different planet and one day we have to go back there. Why we came here? Because of our wishes, our Karma and our mistakes. We unknowingly wished for this type of life and we are here. Who is the witness? Sadguru will protect and give love and courage. Guru Purnima is a day of emptying yourself in Sadguru’s presence. The new things we learn here takes us forward. Guru Purnima day is the day when the Sadguru, the leader of humanity took form. Because it is the day of removing our Karma, we have to pray that our Karmas too get removed. We have to pray that he gives us what we deserve. We have to rededicate ourselves for His cause and request him to use us as His instruments. “Use me as you like” – you should say. Don’t over analyze statements or happenings. Your statements and actions should not come from your brain. They should come from heart. There is no need to cry or despair. Sadguru will take care of it. I am happy that the Chicago Satsang Sabha have hosted this Guru Purnima day. You all are very devoted. That is why Swamiji is here. I bless that the stock markets improve and the computer industry rebounds and gives more jobs and that people are blessed with three daughters and four boys.

My Blessings –Jaya Guru Datta”

Bhakti Mala, August 2002, p. 22

2003, July 13^th, Jain Temple, San Jose, Bay Area, USA

“Sadguru is always happy. Even while watching your antics and confusion, I am laughing inside.
Such a lesson is given to you. He helps you to be happy.”

“These days, we keep on changing jobs, houses, cars, wives, husbands; it
is common to change Gurus also. It is not good. A Telugu proverb says
we can change houses but we cannot change hearts.”

The Bay Area devotees reverently received Sri Swamiji. More than 500 persons had joined inside the hall of the Jain Temple. Sri Swamiji’s Sri Chakra Puja commenced. During that time Sri Prakasha Rao, Chairman of Datta Yoga Center gave a speech about the importance of the Guru Paduka Puja and why Sadguru’s feet is so intensely revered in the tradition. This scholarly and well-researched speech was much appreciated.

All the participants of the Guru Purnima received small wooden Padukas blessed by Sri Swamiji. The Bay area Satsang group offered a gold crown to Sri Swamiji and launched the www.annadanam.org   web site, which would spread message about the Annadana Programs of Datta Peetha. Sri Swamiji then received Pada Puja from Mysore Ashrama Parivara. Swami Manasa chanted the Pada Puja Mantras and led the people through the process of Paduka Puja. It was a sublimating experience to see hundreds of people devotionally worshipping Guru Padukas.

After the Pada Puja, Sri Swamiji released the “Karya Siddhi Hanuman” DVD. – a first release video of the Trinidad Hanuman temple inauguration video graphed by Hanuman Hoffman. The final and full version of the DVD is expected to be ready by Navaratri this year. Thereafter Sri Swamiji released the Hanuman Charatra speeches of Swamiji given in Hyderabad Ashrama on audio CDformat. Also released was the poster in English and Telugu.

Sri Swamiji gave a scintillating speech. Then Sri Swamiji gave Guru Purnima Prasad, a special stone as per birth month of the recipient.

In the evening, a special cultural program had been arranged. First was a wonderful chant session of Bhajans by Kali Ray Chant Club. With beautiful photos of Sri Swamiji presented on the large screen along with the lyrics of the Bhajan sung. Then, there was a dance by the local artists.

After that Swami Manasa Datta performed Hari Katha with the theme – “Guru Tattva”. It was well appreciated. Swami Manasa’s knack of presenting the haughty thoughts of Guru Tattva mingled with well-known and simple Bhajans and Sanskrit Shlokas carried home the message.

Sri Swamiji later spoke and expressed dismay that people had reduced their reading habits and this was seen by the dramatic decrease in book sales. Sri Swamiji was aghast that many did not even know all that was offered in the book stall. Sri Swamiji urged people to buy each item that was available in Ashrama Book stall, as it would only increase their knowledge!”

“Guru is like Atman. He is in you. He is in your inner self. It is very difficult to find a Guru these days. Male Gurus, female Gurus, they are all pervasive these days. They are in all denominations, decorations, bearded ones, shaved ones; it is very difficult to find a Guru. Because people want it so much, the Gurus too are confused. These days, we keep on changing jobs, houses, cars, wives, husbands; it is common to change Gurus also. It is not good.”
http://murali-sgs.blogspot.com/2009/05/guru-purnima-speech-by-sri-swamiji-13.html 

2004, July 2^nd, Mysore Ashram


The scene in the Ashram prayer hall.
From Left: Puja by Sri Bala Swamiji.
Sri Swamiji in the centre in front of Dattatreya temple.

The Tradition is set to be continued.

Sri Bala Swamiji performs the Guru Parampara Puja and Vyasa Puja. The photographs of Sri Swamiji, Dattatreya, Jayalakshmi Mata and Shankara Bhagavatpada are placed. In front there is a platform on which rice has been spread across. Lemons are placed in a pattern. Sandal paste and Kumkum are placed on the lemons. These four studied the four Vedas and propagated the respective Vedas to the world.

In the fifth place -

1- Krishna Panchaka- The supreme energy- the Jagadguru - Sri Krishna and His four important divine Amshaas (can be translated as energies), Sankarshana, Vasudeva, Aniruddha and Pradyumna. The entire creation activity happens through these four Amshas

2- Vyasa Panchaka - Sage Vyasa Maharshi (The knowledge representative of Lord Vishnu) and his four important disciples, Sage Jaimini, Paila, Vaishampayana and Sumantu.

3- Shankara Panchaka - (from Kali Yuga) Then there were lemons for Shankaracharya and his four disciples. Shankaracharya is considered to be the Amsha of Lord Shiva and incarnation of wisdom.His disciples are Sureswara Acharya, Padmapada, Hastamalaka and Trotakacharya

4- Sanaka Panchaka - In Krita Yuga, the knowledge was spread across by Sage Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana,Sanatkumara and Sanatsujata. The five were one of the earliest propagators of Knowledge.

5- Dattatreya Panchaka - In Datta Peetham tradition Bhagawan Dattatreya, Bhargava Rama, Shanta Tapa, Sri Pada Vallabha and Narasimha Saraswati are the important Gurus.

6- Swamiji Panchaka - Gurus of our times, Sri Swamiji and Parama Guru (Guru's Guru) Jayalakshmi Mata, Karapatra Swami (Paratpara Guru) and Dattatreya (Parameshthi Guru). The beacon of light from which knowledge flowed in the Avadhoota Datta Peetha tradition.

Pujas were also performed for Ashta Dikpalaka, Durga Ganapathy, Kshetra Palaka, Brahma and Shesha, all earlier propagators of Brahma Vidya were worshipped. They included Samvartha, Harithayana, Brihaspati, Durvasa and others.

In the end - the essence of every one - the Shuddha Chaitana - Pure consciousness is the main focal point which received today's worship.

Videos + photos on: www.dattapeetham.com

2005, July 21 ^th, Datta Retreat Center, West Sunbury, USA

Sadguru Sri Swamiji’s holy feet on the Guru Purnima day
covered with Sandal paste and flowers

Sri Swamiji had decided to hold the very important Guru Purnima Celebration festivals here in Datta Retreat Center and it was the highlight of this USA tour.

“Hari Om Tat Sat

Sri Maha Ganapataye namah
Sri Saraswatye namahSri Padavallabah Narasimha Saraswati
Sri Guru Dattatreyaya Namah
Guru Brahma, Guru VishnuGuru Devo Maheshwara
Gurusakshat ParambrahmaTasmai sri Guruve Namaha
Akhanda mandala karamVyaptam yena caracaram
Tat padam darshitam yenaTasmai sri Guruve namaha

So today is happiest Guru Day. You observe all kinds of festivals in your life time - Mother’s Day, Guru day, May Day, Valentine’s Day, marriage day - but Guru Day is a very rare occasion. If you have a Guru, then you will celebrate; otherwise, no Guru Day! This Guru Purnima Day honors Sadguru, our Parampara Guru.  Parampara means remembering our Guru lineage. Our first guru was Brahma. He created so many problems in this world. The first Parabrahma was thinking to himself, “What is this? There are no activities.” There was only darkness. (If you read the Bhagavatam, then you will understand about creation.) At that time, Brahma was invisible; he had no form. He thought, “I want to create something.” So He created different jivas (lives). 

Immediately after this creation, maybe these jivarasis (souls) will experience problems—facing their karmas and sorrows, and again birth and again death. They will live for thousands of years; but even if you live ten thousand years, you must eventually die. He realized these anantajivarasis, (endless numbers of souls) would take birth again and again, transferring karma from one life to the next. The anantajiva—animals, human beings, nature - will always be suffering. “These souls will suffer, so I must create Sadguru first.”  Brahma first created medicine, then disease - not the disease first. “I must first create a doctor. A guru is like a doctor.” He created the first Dattatreya.

There are many beautiful stories, but the details are not necessary now. I have already given these messages in DattaDarshanam and also in my lectures. 

After creation, He was kind enough to give Sadguru. Then creation was beginning. I think you know about this experience yourself. What is the maya? What is the arshadvarka? What is this struggle to transfer such a variety of souls, janmas (births)? Brahma saw that our travel would be miserable, so He gave into three veins an injection or vaccine - the creation of Sadguru. Before you travel to India, you get a vaccination. Sadguru is like a vaccine. If you have a Sadguru, don’t worry about this maya. You must practice strong faith in Sadguru. Sometimes Sadguru Himself is creating maya. Why? We don’t know why.  There is no answer. This is simply a Sadguru phenomenon. 

Purification is always going on. Like gold is melted in the fire, then cooled in water, then hammered, and then back into the heat, the water and hammered, over and over again. From 14 carat to 18 carat to 22 carat, the process is always going on. The gold is suffering. Likewise, imagine a big rock. The sculptor hammers thousands and thousands of times, and finally the rock is transformed into a beautiful murti (idol) of Krishna or Shiva. Human beings are like the gold that suffers to become a beautiful ornament worthy of respect. Don’t worry about the “tests” in your life. Birth is one big test. The wise man does not wish to experience birth again. I will give you a small example.

Ramana Maharishi was my father’s friend, and that is why I am respecting him always. Ramana Maharishi had some small cancer on his leg. His German devotees wanted him to have an operation to remove it. He refused saying, “I must face this thing. Very nice.” But finally he agreed, and they operated. All through the night, some of his disciples were sleeping while he was unconscious. At about 3:00 o’clock, Ramana woke up and saw bandage on his leg. He was unhappy and he removed the bandages. The doctors had made the mistake of leaving the cancerous tissue in the trash in his room. Ramana took back the infected flesh and applied it to his leg. A disciple ran to get the doctor. Both the German doctor and devotees asked, “We love you, but why are you spoiling this surgery? You will get infection!” Ramana said, “It doesn’t matter. This infection must eat my leg. This is my karma. If you forcibly remove it, I will have to take birth again with infection again in my karma. I will finish it in this janma (incarnation). This infection is no problem. I must face this.” This is the high knowledge from Ramana Maharishi. We may not be able to achieve that level, but we must practice.

We must face our karma. Don’t hesitate. Don’t be disappointed in your karma. If bad karma comes, you blame your Guru, or your father or mother, or your partner, wife, husband, children or government. What is this?  You are a little bit cracky! You accept the blame yourself and face your karma. You will experience nice and also sorrowful karmas. You want always only good experiences! What about bad? You can experience bad, and during those times, you must believe. Follow Sadguru and He will help. Definitely, He will help.

There are a lot of stories and examples in our lives and also in the Puranas. I think you should read Swamiji’s autobiography. It looks very ordinary, like a novel. But indirectly there are many hidden secrets and stories of the beautiful Datta leela, God’s leela.

It is very difficult to get to Guru. So many years you have struggled with your karma, then you get Sadguru.  But it only takes one second to lose Him! One second is enough! It’s not only difficult to get to Guru, it is also difficult to maintain that relationship. If you get to Guru, it is good luck - your good merit from a previous birth. The journey is very difficult, I know. In this big ocean of life, called samsara, there are no directions, no compass, and we can’t swim. At that time you must you chant Guru’s name. 

Everywhere, always sense Swamiji’s presence. You are always collecting photographs of Him to feel his presence, but they are not necessary. Look only at your inside photography (pointing to his heart). If you get upset, you take away His photograph. Don’t worry about the photo! Do not think that He is not your guru and say, “Today my guru is not here!” Use His photographs to develop love and to build a connection with Swamiji. Because you are a physical body, you want physical things - like photos, puja materials, padukas - because our friendship is growing. You have a physical body, a physical mind. You are facing your physical karma, and you need physical attention, physical help, physical things. After this physical karma, then you close your eyes - without photo, without things - and you get a good vibration, good moksha.  

You are acting like a jnani, saying ”I know everything about the supernatural and this karma, I am doing this meditation only.” I don’t understand what kind of meditation are you doing? It is physical. You are using your physical body. You say, “I don’t go to temples. I don’t listen to Sadguru. I don’t follow. I only meditate, silently pray.” You are listening to big lectures about this and reading many foolish books. If you have a physical guru, you must use Him. Ask your spiritual questions, then you can understand about guru. It is very difficult to get guru, but you can lose him in one or two seconds. Don’t do like that! 

It is not necessary for Swamiji to be here, as I have a very good facility in India. I am here because we have a previous connection between Sadguru and disciple, and that is why I am sitting here with you now. You have good feelings and bad feelings, and I am your family member. My attachment is a very pure attachment, like a crystal. If you feel anything bad, I feel it and I hurt too. So don’t do that. If you are upset, you can take a break for one or two days, but not all the days, not permanently. Because I don’t leave you! If you go to Vaikunta or to heaven, I will come. If you have to travel into the darkness, I am coming with you and bringing my light. This is because there is a contract between Sadguru and disciple. I have already signed this indivisible contract. Don’t worry. You must develop affection and devotion. 

Next week, my Gopalkrishna is coming to teach Kriya Yoga. It is a good gift, so take advantage of it and get your questions answered. Please listen always to GuruGita and BhagavadGita, and listen to small bhajans and practice slowly. Always I bless you. Swamiji has given His promise, so don’t worry. But from your side, be careful. You must do your part also and develop silence and discipline. Please wake up your chakra - from muladhara through sahasranama - with breathing exercises, with meditation, with silent prayer.
I bless you.”  

From: www.dattapeetham.com

2006, July 11^th, Datta Yoga Centre, Trinidad

On 11th Guru Purnima was celebrated with gaiety, fervour and devotion. It was for this sacred function that more than three hundred foreigners had descended to Trinidad Ashrama. Ashrama reverberated with the sacred chants of Guru Parama Mantras, Shlokas, prayers and chants. Hundreds of devotees had the sacred opportunity of touching Sri Swamiji.

In the evening, wonderful Bhanjans by Sri Swamiji gripped the audience.

“Sri Ganeshaya Namaha
Sri Saraswatyai Namaha
Sri Pada Vallabha
Narasimha Saraswati
Sri Guru Dattatreyaya Namaha

Gurur Brahma
Gurur Vishnu
Gurudevo Mahesvaraha
Guru Ssakshat Param Brahma
Tasmai Sri Datta Gurave Namaha

Om Namo Narayanaaya

Today is knowledge day. That means very auspicious Guru Purnima day. Purnima is full moon. Full Ananda - complete bliss. That is full moon. Ajnaana day is Amaavaasya day. Some people like Amaavaasya because they start Vratas on this day. Purnima is also very powerful day. On these two days, the environment, oceans have some change. The Pancha Bhutas undergo subtle changes. The Celestial beings are constantly changing. It is the creation - Srushti phenomenon - constantly changing. No change means not smooth running. Life too has so many changes - sorrows and happiness. Many people wish for a long life. If you live 120 years and there is no change, then you get bored. After 85 years of age, it is very difficult to maintain this body. Death is natural. Death is not ending. Death is a beginning too. It is the starting of  the Jnaana. Birth and death are necessary like inhaling and exhaling. Like light and dark. One cannot ask for light at all times. If there was light always, you cannot sleep and you get irritated. You need darkness at times so that you can sleep - otherwise no peace.

If you have problems in your family, it is natural phenomena. If you want happiness, there should be changes. Ups and downs are normal. All the times you should not ask for good things. Bad things are also lessons. Bad experience is necessary for spiritual upliftment. It is needed for getting Jnana. If there is no sorrow, there is no confusion and then there is no fun in life. If you want some zing in life, something beautiful, it should have mixed feelings of both happiness and sorrows. One has to be careful at such times. How to handle the situation? We should know how to allow good things and how to avoid bad things. We should handle carefully. Some people ignore saying, Swamiji know everything – Swamiji does everything. If you truly believe so, then why are you eating daily? You eat and enjoy life but when sorrows come, you leave it to Swamiji. No. That is wrong. Confusion, sorrows are also our duties. They are lessons. We should not hesitate.

If a bad thing happened yesterday, it is lesson for today. If you have any happiness, it is also a lesson for tomorrow. SAMA SHEETA USHNA – it is said – equal measure of hot- and cold-ness. Dasha Indriyas (Ten sense organs) control these feelings. Not just five senses. Not the Pancha Indriyas (five sense organs) but Dasha Indriyas (ten sense organs). The body is a chariot. Atman controls this chariot. Who is this invisible Atman? It is Paramatman. It is he who controls the Body. He is holding the chariot like a driver. Like Lord Krishna holds the reins of the horses in Bhagavad-Gita. While controlling the horses, he gives Upadesha to Arjuna. Our Sadguru holds the ten sense organs and gives Jnana. He is controlling our Dasha Indriyas.

What is the purpose of this Janma? Sadguru gives answer some day. You have to wait and wait. No hurry. Do Sadhana. Some think that they are following Swamiji for forty years, they have chanted and chanted and nothing has happened. The fact that you chanted for forty years is your happening. Don’t worry that nothing happened. If you leave the Japam or what ever you chant, naturally your mind will go here and there.

Abhayaasa – Practice. It is very essential. You have to practice till death. Don’t ask for results. If you ask for result, you are wavering. I have many times given you the story of Nama Deva. Let me tell again.

Nama Deva was a great devotee. Panduranga Vitthala appeared one day and asked Nama Deva to come with him to Vaikuntha (Vishnu Loka). Nama Deva refused saying he was very happy on earth – chanting the name of Lord and going to Vaikuntha would mean the feelings would stop and the chanting would not be necessary. “Nama Deva felt that the struggling relation with God was much better. HE felt that on earth he would have the divine opportunity of singing the name of the lord.

If you stop singing Bhajans for one week, you will feel guilty and a sense of loss would envelop. Singing Bhajans is a very good Abhyaasa (Practice). Puja gives discipline. When the discipline comes, automatically Ekaagrata (concentration) comes. It comes one by one.

I am happy that the Guru Purnima is taking place in Trinidad. I have told many times that Trinidad is one of my birthplaces. Though I have many countries, Trinidad has a special place in my heart. People also are very nice. Sometimes, there is confusion, but even then it is good. Confusion is good at times. I am also experiencing confusion. Even Sadguru has 24 Gurus. I am learning lessons from all the gurus. Confusions also teach me lessons. That is my habit.

You people think that you give bad experiences to Swamiji. Do not feel so. I like confusion. Thats all. I bless you. Please go ahead with Datta Darshanam. Life history of Swamiji is also very important. Swamiji has given simple version of Bhagavad-Gita. If you have received a Guru mantra, then you should chant it as many times possible. Don’t look for results. Keep on chanting. If you think about the result, the power of Mantra diminishes. You practice NISHKAAMA KARMA.

It is very difficult to get a Sadguru. Don’t lose a Sadguru. In the beginning there will be much confusion, later you will understand and strong faith develops. Even in Bhaagavatha, there are lots of devils who create much confusion. Some people talk positively about Swamiji and some negatively. You should think only of the Good things, even at the times of Krishna, such things happened. Sometimes bad words create strong belied. Even bad thoughts may become strong beliefs. Thanks to demons for indirectly strengthening our beliefs. Because you are getting positive energy, it is ok. But don’t lose that good experience. Some people give bad advises so that their group number increases. They want to increase their Raakshasa group. But Krishna had most friends and enemies. Bad friends of Krishna were poisoning the minds of the Gopikaas. Finally they realized that this is not good. Be careful.

You chant Guru Mantra more and more. Don’t get upset about these bad people. Enjoy the good experience with the Sadguru. I bless you. I am happy so many devotees from all over have come. May Datta Bless you all. Jaya Guru Datta.”

Speech: Bhakti Mala, August 2006, p 22
Photos on: www.dattapeetham.com

2007, July 2^nd – Teddington School, London, UK

“Guru purnima is the time to offer prayer TO Sadguru for truth, bliss and consciousness. Some know guru purnima as Buddha purnima and Vyas purnima. Why do we celebrate Guru Purnima? It is for the enlightenment of self (Aatma Gyana).

From birth we have many gurus at each stage of life. Mother as guru, Father as guru, Teacher as guru, Career guru, Spiritual guru.

You may have many gurus but mother, father and Sadguru can not be changed. Some devotees chase different gurus. They do not understand the principle of guru tatva (principle). We breathe through nose from birth to date. But we never imagine changing our nose. Surely if you have something for a long time, it is human tendency to replace old thing. Now a days it is fashion to change guru’s and have many gurus. So why don’t you change your nose as well. Chop your nose off and may be you can replace with another nose! How about breathing thru ear? We all like change of scenery, items etc. Similarly surely you want a new nose. OK so we have established that it is not a good idea to change your nose. It is a natures way.

Likewise it is not advisable to change sadguru. It is nature’s way. A sadguru is your guide, a friend, a well-wisher but truly speaking your spiritual guide from birth to eternity. All of you are leaving a chaotic life. Every one worries about business, family, friends wealth etc etc. But do you know your life span. You should strive to get onboard of guru’s boat. Guru is your navigator who will guide you from birth to immortality. Of course it is difficult to get on that boat. Only a select few gets on such a boat. All those present here are lucky souls. You all have a chance to get on the board. Don’t miss such an opportunity.

Such opportunities are rare but god sent opportunity. Don’t miss it. Many devotees have been associated with Sri Swamiji for many years. But they cannot explain their inner feeling. They are asked questions to explain their experience, but they fail to do so. It is not easy to explain such a wonderful experience. It is to be felt. Many a time’s devotees are asked to explain their association with Swamiji. But words fail them. How can you explain that wonderful experience? It is like saying that I know yet I don’t know! Devotees have made an effort to write and print their experiences. But they all end up with a long list. They always feel that they have failed to do justice. It is impossible to describe Guru’s glory. One can only try. Physical effort is all that you can do. But the real devotee experiences within their heart. How can you explain such a wonderful experience?

Another group of devotees chase after Swamiji. Some have been chasing for many years. But spiritually they have failed to grasp the essence. They have failed to develop spiritually. Some devotees always want interviews. Others always ask for Paada puja (Worship of Guru’s lotus feet). Some ask series of personal questions year after year and also give large donations. But what about your spiritual development? So when such devotees are asked about such spiritual experience they fill at a loss. Than they search for other guru’s. That is foolishness.

It is like carrying butter and asking every one can I please have ghee (clarified butter). It is a known fact that to obtain ghee, one must boil butter continuously until ghee appears. Similarly for spiritual attainment, one must learn some spiritual techniques rather than chase Swamiji. Learn art of Kriya yoga, meditation, listen to Swamiji’s music, read Swamiji’s books, watch videos and DVD. To improve your spiritual experience you must develop such practices. Some devotees do not think of Sadguru until old age. Such people fail to grasp the true essence of guru principle. The body gets weak with advancing age. The back hurts, the eyes fail and the hearing weakens. And the mind is corrupted with all the worldly worries. So how can they concentrate and pray. Don’t waste time and begin now.

Remember that with birth, problems will arise day after day. You will never be free from worldly problems. But learn to meditate and pray. Such practices will help you over come your weak tendencies and attain higher spiritual level.

In my avatar (Incarnation) devotees approach me from all walks of life. That is lord’s play, Datta’s play. You can not explain. No one can explain. But those who have had my darshan (audience), are with me for ever. Make the most of my presence. Don’t waste time. Rather than ask me questions on mundane subjects, worldly pleasures, ask me about spiritual quest. I bless you all. Today is a good association. Good vibration and good energy. May lord Datta bless you. Jai Guru Datta. Sri Guru Datta.”

From: http://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Sri_Ganapathi_Sachchidananda_Swamiji's_speech_at_Teddington_School,_London
 

2007, July 29^th – Capital Banquet Centre, Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Guru Poornima – The day which devotees wait for long to spend contemplating on Sadguru Deva drew closer … inch by inch. Sri Swamiji had acceded to the prayers of Canadian devotees to be present this year’s Guru Purnim festival in Canada. (…)

On this auspicious day, Sri Swamiji arrived at Capital Banquet Centre at 10 AM. Sri Swamiji was received with traditional Nada Swara pipe players, Purna Kumbha and Veda Ghosha. Sri Swamiji was led to Sri Chakra Puja stage. More than 1000 persons had already occupied the fairly large banquet centre. After Sri Chakra Puja, Sri Swamiji offered flowers to Guru Parampara (Sadguru lineage) photo of Dattatreya, Sri Pada Vallabha, Narasimha Saraswati and Jayalakshmi Mata. Swami Manasa Datta gave a welcome and introduction speech outlining the Guru Purnima significance.

Sri Teekah Ramnauth and family performed Guru Pada Puja on behalf of the entire Datta family. Sri Swamiji then gave a short discourse.

Sri Swamiji chanted the Guru Brahma Mantra, then Akhanda Mandalakaram. Sri Swamiji spoke thus:
“Guru Purnima can be considered as the Birthday of all important Gurus. Dattatreya, Sanaka, Vyasa, Sanandana, Parashara and all Gurus Birthday. On this day, one should remember the first Guru, Mother, Father and the teacher who taught your skills in life, the skill of writing and reading. The teacher who gave you skills to work and gain food. Even your employment consultant is also a Guru and you should remember them all on this day. Even the person who taught you driving is also your Guru. The person who sponsored your visa to be in the country you reside, the person who taught you A for Apple, the person who taught you the computer skills, are all your Gurus. You must remember and give respects on this Guru Purnima day. Don't forget them. Many imagine Guru Purnima to be only connected with Guru, Sadguru, Parameshti Guru and Parampara Guru. All are important. There are so many categories of Gurus. We must remember all Gurus on this full moon day. We must meditate and give respect to them today. Many think only the person who gives Mantra as your Guru. No. All the above persons are also your Gurus. Mantra Guru is your final Guru. The above persons taught you to lead life.

I remember and meditate on Sage Vyasa today. He started the Guru Purnima system. He gave the Guru Parampara (lineage) system. Sri Swamiji has explained the Guru Geeta so many times. While Sri Chakra Puja was going on, we heard Guru Geeta. Ganapati Sachchidananda did not sing that wonderful Shlokas. Bhagavan Dattatreya himself sang those verses. If you ask me to sing like that today, I cannot. Whenever I listen to it, I get good experience. Not just the voice. Each Shloka is full of power and knowledge. Guru Geeta does not canvas any religion. No. If you understand its true meaning, you understand it's universality. We received Guru Geeta from Lord Shiva Himself. Vyasa and Shankara propagated it. Guru Parampara is a large tree. Your Swamiji's lineage is also a small branch in that large tree. When you feel you have problem, listen to the Guru Geeta chanting. Your mind will be put at ease to tackle the problem. Don't be wary in your approach. Believe in something. Don't keep butter in your hand and search around for ghee. Most likely, the answer to your problems lies with you.

Start somewhere. Many people say they miss old Swamiji. But when I am available, most people ask silly questions. Very few ask question relating to enrichment of Jnana. Some Gurus may like your silly questions. But not with me. Don't be tricky with me. 10 years back Sri Swamiji was available for hours together. Very few people got Jnana from me. Today new persons hear that old devotees spent hours after hours with Swamiji. After two years, even this will be not be there. After two years, Swamiji may not speak. After two years, Bhajans will not be there. After two years, I may not travel. I may just wave my hand. . Today you are lucky. That's all. Don't compare too much. Those who have seen this have to see the different situations also. Time moves on. Time changes everything. 15 years ago many of you in this hall were children who were lifted by me. Some were even named by Swamiji. But today, you are grown up and I cannot hold you like I held you when you were children. Don't be upset. That is how life is. Adjust to the new situation. As time moves, things change. That is the only permanent thing. My Blessings to you all.”

Sri Swamiji later released a souvenir book titled “Eye of Wisdom”, a MP3 audio CD music play of Sri Swamiji’s life history titled “Nada Katha Sudha”, which was prepared by more than 40 devotees in Baton Rouge, Houston and other places was also released. Another CD titled “Sharanam Sachchidanandam” containing 17 songs on Sri Swamiji sung by Smt. Radhika Rudraksha and Uma Deval was also released.. Sri Swamiji later cut a cake to mark the Guru Purnima occasion. Kaliji presented Guru Purnima T-shirts.

Later all the devotees came in a queue and had the Blessed and sacred opportunity to touch the Holy Padas (feet) of Sri Swamiji and offer their respects and prayers. It went ob till 2.30PM.

In the evening Sri Swamiji returned and spoke about Sage Vyasa and sang Bhajans and Guru Ashtaka. Sri Swamiji drew lotto to decide in which place in USA Sri Swamiji would come for 2008 Guru Purnima festival. New Jersey won the draw and the jubilant New Jersey devotees numbering more than 100 loudly chanted victory to Sri Swamiji. After the Bhajans, the new video, Nada Brahma 2007 was played and the audience went through the voyage of beautiful singing of Kalatreya Bodhitam Brahma Brahma and the mesmerizing video of Sri Swamiji moving along the Kaveri river from the river’s birthplace in Bhagamandala to Sri Swamiji’s birthplace on Kaveri river in Mekadatu.

 

2008, July 18^th – New Jersey, USA

Guru Poornima was celebrated in New Jersey, USA on 18th July 2008 by devotees from all over the world in the Holy presence of Parama Pujya Sri Swamiji. After Sri Chakra Puja, Pratyaksha Paada Puja was performed to His Holiness. All the devotees got the pleasant opportunity to touch the Holy lotus feet of Pujya Sri Swamiji. His Holiness materialized Vibhooti from flowers and blessed the devotees by cutting the Guru Poornima cake. In the noon, International Baldatta retreat for children took place, where kids from various centers participated. In the evening, a scintillating Bhajan session was conducted by His Holiness. The grand finale was the food morsel given by Sri Swamiji to the devotees.

Guru Purnima message of Parama Pujya Sri Swamiji on 18th July 2008, New Jersey, USA
“Today we are celebrating Guru Purnima. We are remembering Guru Parampara and doing the Parampara Stuti. It is Guru Vamsha Vruksham. (Lineage) Many people do not know who is Sadguru, Parama Guru and the Guru Parampara. It is like our father, grandfather, great grand father and his father and fore fathers. But there is only one first father. He is Brahma. That is why we say Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara. Guru is a creator like Brahma, protects us as Vishnu and destroys confusion in us as Maheshwara. These three actions are going on continuously in Guru. Brahma's creation is unique. We cannot explain Brahma's ideas. He is playing like a small boy. We are all small toys for Him. We all are tiny particles in His creation like small insects.

Some are protective, some are destructive and some are poisonous. What ever is His Sankalpa, it is good. He is very happy about His creation. No complaints. No questions. Every being in His creation is very busy. Even an ant is busy. Mosquito also is busy in biting. Birds also are very busy. Many people say we are very busy to follow Sadguru. We say Swamiji is in our hearts. No physical worship is necessary. We say work is worship and Swamiji also likes it. We don’t read Bhagavad Gita. We say it is confusion. If you study deeply, you will understand. If you study your Sadguru in depth, you will understand.

You feel Sri Chakra Puja is like a toy game. It is necessary to understand Guru Gita to understand idol worship. We have to control our Manas. In order to control that, we need idol worship. Vigraha gives Nigraha. We are giving discipline and controlling the sense organs. When we sit with Swamiji, we have very powerful concentration. What ever is the reason, we have come to Swamiji. Some attraction is there. We don’t know what it is. Swamiji's leela cannot be explained. How long miracles will work on us? There is some attraction beyond miracles.

Many people ask what is the benefit of visiting Swamiji? We say we don’t know. But if they ask repeatedly, our response will change. Slowly we speak out. But even then Swamiji's leela cannot be explained. You can only experience, you cannot experiment. Bhakti should not be experimented. Surrender completely. Do complete Atmarpana. Swamiji is like a Walmart. You will get what ever you want. You get Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Bhajans, fun. (...) anything. Don’t complain that Swamiji is like this (...) like that. (...) I don’t like Swamiji doing this etc. (...) You cannot say that because He is Walmart. If you don’t like, don’t go. You can taste what ever you want. But you must wait. Some people are in hurry to see Swamiji. Swamiji tests your patience also. By doing so, He will remove all your sins. Our Karma is getting washed away in long queues that we wait for Sadguru Darshana. You will forget all your pains in a moment.

In Hyderabad, devotees stand for more than 6 hours in queue for Swamiji's darshan on Yugadi day (...) they feel very happy for doing so (...) In America people sit only in Sofas. They drink coffee also with Straw. But why are you sitting on floor here? It is out of love and affection towards Swamiji that you have. You concentrate on one work at a time finish that and then take up the other one. Then you will succeed in everything. Your confusion is because you take up everything at one time. You all are doing everything half. Datta Stavam half, Puja half, food half, sleep half. Everything is 50 per cent only. That is why you don’t have good health. We say Ashthottaram is big. You finish in 8 or 16 names. Do anything with fulfillment and satisfaction. Today, this Nakshatra is powerful on Purnima day. This comes only once in twelve years. Swamiji wanted to concentrate only on Guru Purnima and cancelled the three months trip.

You are tiny human beings. Your quality is making mistakes. Sadguru quality is forgiveness. He will excuse all of you. You are showing your quality and He is showing His quality. Try and drive away Rakshasa Bhavas in you and put all your efforts to gather Devata Bhavas. Do well and speak good at least to your families or at least to yourself. Our family is a beautiful family. We got a Nandagokulam. Sadguru is living in your body. Don’t hurt yourself. Don’t get depressed. That is why Swamiji says don’t smoke. He is residing in you. Don’t spoil that divine inner energy. I bless you all that all your Sankalpas be fulfilled. May our relationship grow and be stable. May it be a good relation? Again, Swamiji is like a Walmart. Don't decide for yourself that He has this, He does not have this. (...) Swamiji has everything. You pick up what you want. Jaya Guru Datta.”

Another Guru Purnima speech from New Jersey …
“Om Vyasaaya Namaha. Who is this Vyasa? He is our ancient Guru. Our scripture, Puranas, Maha Bharata, Upanishads were given by him. He is the beginner of Guru Purmima tradition. If you sit near any Guru who gives lecture, that seat is called VYAASA PEETHA or JNAANA PEETHA. 

Who is a Guru? Is it necessary to have a Guru? How to judge a Guru? What does Guru mean? 

Guru is like Atman. He is in you. He is in your inner self. It is very difficult to find a Guru these days. Male Gurus, Female Gurus are all pervasive these days. They are in all denominations, decorations, bearded ones, shaved ones; it is very difficult to find a Guru. 

Sadguru came down to your level to be with you. All times I am happy. I want to keep myself happy. I am saying all this because Sadguru is always struggling to bless devotees.

Sadguru is always happy. Even while watching your antics and confusion, I am laughing inside.  Such a lesson is given to you. He helps you to be happy.  When touring Andhra Pradesh last month, a millionaire came to Swamiji and asked, “I have seen your devotees. Many are friends in my business. Even after having lost all their money. They are still happy. I want to join this family. Please bless me”.

Sadguru is like a signboard. It only leads you in a path. But you are driving that car.  You have come here with your Karma bundle to go through that.  He can never change that KARMA.  YOU HAVE TO GO THROUGH THAT. But Guru is a good company to keep.

Purnima means full moon. Full moon means fulfillment. So, Guru Purnima is a day of fulfillment.  If you go to a millionaire, he may give you a dollar or two. If you go to Kali Ray, she may give you yoga. If you go to Swamiji, he will give you ANANDA. That’s all. But Sadguru is very difficult to please. You must keep praying because he is a miser. It may appear like a stubborn diamond. But at the same time, a Sadguru is a delicate flower. I always say this. “If you apply heat to butter, it will melt. But Sadguru’s heart can melt in a refrigerator also. Such is the delicateness of Sadguru’s heart.”

From: http://www.dattadigambara.com/Guru_Purnima.php
Photos on: www.dattapeetham.com

2009, July 7^th - Frisco, Texas, USA
 

Devotees from all over the globe, congregated for Guru Poornima Celebrations and Hanuman Mahotsav at Frisco City near Dallas. The festive mood among hundreds of devotees was evident, as the Grand Gala of Events combined with the divine presence of Pujya Sri Swamiji catapulted the spirits of Datta Family to Higher State. Expansive Hosting and impeccable organisation by Dallas Hanuman Group at Frisco Conference Centre (Embassy Suites) was thoroughly appreciated by visiting devotees.

On this important day, the programs started with the recital of Guru Gita by devotees. The sounds of the powerful Mantra had made the listeners transcend to a celestial plane. After Sri Chakra Puja, Sri Swamiji released Vishnu Sahasra Nama Audio CD and Book (Hindi, Telugu and English Versions)

In His Guru Purnima Message, Sri Swamiji gave an important message and Mantra to the devotees:

“Devotees who are close to and follow Sadguru in thought, word and deed escape the torment of time. Swamiji gave a beautiful analogy - the grinding stone. The seeds that remain close to the pivot escape the process of getting crushed in between the two stones. Parabrahman is the one who rotates the grinding stones. The grinding stone represents Kaala or time. The pivot represents the Sadguru. The seeds represent the innumerable species. Those who remain in the behest of Sadguru and follow Him in thought, word and deed, escape the grinding in the Kalachakra. So follow Sadguru in your thought, word and deed.”

The family of Dr. Palkar performed Pada Puja on behalf of all the devotees. Suvasini Puja and Tulaabhaaram preceded the Guru Samarpana by devotees.

In the evening, prizes of distributed to the winners of various categories of Bhajan Competition. More than 94 persons attended Kriya Yoga Camp. Later, Sri Swamiji conducted the important Draw of Raffle, in which Five Prizes including a Car, Plasma TV were given away to the winners.

Sri Swamiji also launched a project Setu Bandha – where by each devotee should enroll their name. Each registered participant shall write the Hanuman Chalisa or the Mantra – OM HANUMATE NAMAHA and offer ONE DOLLAR. All the members of each family can also enroll. The proceeds of this scheme would be utilised towards the ongoing project of Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple at Frisco.

Brief Biography of Sri Swamiji (Hindi & Telugu Version along with Audio Book) – brought out by Smt. Heera Duvvuri, were released. Later Chicago Devotees organised Tula Bhaaram and Dolotsavam to Sri Swamiji. Earlier, Bhargavi from New Jersey danced to the tune of a Devi Keertan.

While Sri Swamiji was seated on the Swing, More than 150 Devotees formed a circle to do the Daandiyaa Style of Dance (Gujarati Style) to the popular tune of Gurujeena Naamnee Ho (Gujarati Bhajan), Yamuna Tat par Brundavan Me (Hindi) and Ninnu Nammi Vachchianaanu (Telugu).

On this occasion, an innovative program - Symphony of Yoga was conducted. Noted Professionals were invited to broach on various subjects ranging from medicine to Holistic approach to music.

Epilogue:
The festive gala permeated the venue. The feel of Annual reunion of Datta Family interspersed with Puja, Devotional Rendition, Cultural Fete, Charities was enormous. Moreover the Captivating Presence of Sri Swamiji had a magnifying effect on hundreds of Families, who could rejoice as revelers, get elevated as seekers and worked as cohesive Datta Family Members.

The programs were web cast live, in a couple of websites and reported in Gemini Television in a number of countries.
Jaya Guru Datta

From: www.dattapeetham.com

 

Geseke 2010

It is moving and it fills ones heart with joy remembering all the travels and efforts Sri Swamiji has made over the years, in order to gather His followers, to fill us with joy by His mere presence, to purify us, and teach us how to lead simple but happy lives. What can we do in exchange for all this greatness we have received? Remember Sri Swamiji in our hearts every day, every second, follow His word, sing Bhajans, be good to nature and our fellow beings. In Swamiji’s own words:

“Be happy – do good!”

Jaya Guru Datta