Vision of Red Light(s) in Deep Meditation

A spark of red light!

While performing the sacred sadhana of Maa Siddhalakshmi in the Golden Palace of Sadhana App, I had a vision of vibrant red light, the sacred color that adorned the form of the benevolent Goddess. It was Her color indicating Her presence. It was a profound sign, a testament to the intimate connection that I had built up over the time with the Divine Mother, the embodiment of abundance and prosperity. 

And as I continued my devotional practices, I found solace in the knowledge that the Divine, in all its boundless Grace, had chosen to reveal itself to me through the wondrous prism of bright red light. The red hue became a catalyst for introspection, compelling me to delve deeper into the depths of my spiritual practice. 

This was not the first time I had seen a red light in meditation. A few years back I experienced it. I was doing the mystical ‘Khand Mand Sadhana’, an extraordinary ritual of profound self purification as mentioned by Om Swamiji in ‘Devi Bhagavatam’ virtual retreat. As I began this intricate Sadhana, I surrendered myself to the Mother Divine with unwavering devotion. My consciousness became one with the ethereal realm, and a serene aura enveloped me like a loving embrace. In the midst of this profound practice, a sight greeted my yearning soul that I had never before witnessed. A brilliant flash of red light shimmered before me in deep meditation, illuminating the inner recesses of my being. My heart longed, and a sense of awe consumed me, for this sight was far from ordinary.  

And so, I continued my sacred Sadhana, basking in the radiance of the red light, forever grateful for the profound connection I share with the Divine. In the depths of my being, I carry the flame of devotion, seeking to explore the uncharted realms of spirituality and transcendence, forever immersed in the boundless love and grace of the Divine Mother. And then, a realization dawned upon me like the first light of dawn as red light dispels the darkness, ignorance, stimulates inner detachment from earthly interests and it is purely uplifting.

In the days that followed, the memory of the red light remained etched within the depths of my consciousness. It became a guiding beacon, a reminder of the profound spiritual journey that lay ahead. The vision of that extraordinary hue became a symbol of the Divine blessings that flowed into my life, a gentle reminder that our beloved Mother, in Her benevolence, would forever guide and protect me. With each passing day, I walked the path of devotion with newfound purpose, knowing that the realm of the Divine held endless mysteries waiting to be unravelled.

You see, in my spiritual journey, I had often encountered divine lights of violet and blue hues, their radiant glow signifying the presence of higher spiritual realms and self purification. Yet, the sight of red light, vibrant and fiery, held an inexplicable power that stirred my soul!

Book Review : Public Speaking Success Secrets: Keys to Powerful Platform, Media and Speaking Skills' by Marsha Sue Petrie

The audiobook named 'Public Speaking Success Secrets: Keys to Powerful Platform, Media and Speaking Skills' by Marsha Sue Petrie provides practical advice to improve public speaking by being a sparkle when you speak.

The book states a clear message about recognising the audience, customising the message to the audience's need and electrifying the group. It advises on overcoming uneasiness, building confidence, and using positive self-talk and visualisation. The book also discusses body language, visual assistance, handling challenging questions, and media management.

It can be of great help for enhancing the public speaking skills, in becoming more confident and effective in front of the audience.

Sharing is Caring

Yesterday, my maid arrived half an hour late. Concerned, I inquired, "Why did you come late? Is your health alright?"

With a sombre expression, she replied, "No, my health is not good. I am unwell. I had a severe headache." She proceeded to recount her recent visit to the doctor for an MRI, who advised her to commence medication before determining the need for an MRI.

Curiously, the prescribed medicines were notably potent, and in the scorching weather, they only exacerbated her discomfort. With empathy, I recommended that she should consume some fresh fruits to alleviate the heat. 

Her response unveiled a financial predicament that burdened her and her husband. They had already invested 15,000 rupees in a cooler to endure the sweltering temperatures, and they had the additional responsibility of purchasing a scooty. Education fees for their two children further depleted their limited funds. Her husband's earnings amounted to a mere 10,000 rupees, while she contributed 12,000 rupees to their modest income. After paying the rent and electricity bills, little remained to allocate towards the purchase of fruits and juice.

Deep in thought, I contemplated the words of wisdom recently shared by my Guru Om Swamiji, advocating the recognition of divinity within every soul. He wrote, “You continue to see the divinity in everything around you, the same divinity you saw in your guru.” In that moment, I pondered how I could extend a helping hand to soothe her. I wondered what actions for Swamiji I would have taken if He was present. Guided by an innate desire to assist, I walked towards my refrigerator and took out two ripe mangoes. They were the symbols of nature's abundance and were destined to bring a touch of sweetness to her life. Approaching her with a warm smile, I handed her the fruits, silently hoping that this small gesture would provide solace in her difficult times. I was happy to be able to help her, and I felt good, knowing that I had followed the teachings of my guru Om Swamiji.

I believe that everyone has the potential to be kind, helpful and generous. We should all try to see the divinity in others, and we should always be willing to share with others. The act of kindness extended to the maid as a reminder that even the simplest acts can transform lives and can build a sense of unity in the world.

How Can Advancers Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

Before commencing advanced sadhanas, one has to be regular and consistent in spiritual practices. One should have a good knowledge of the meaning and significance of mantras, correct pronunciation, and understanding the power and transformative potential of sound vibrations. Understand the gods or goddesses you are interested in through their stories and what they represent e.g. deity's qualities, symbolism, and their relationship with the practitioner so that a strong bond can be built up.

At this stage, one should be well aware of the mantra compatibility. If you can perform the sadhana for 30 days or more and can easily sit like a rock for 45 minutes then you can increase the time for 40 days to some years and for one hour or more long sadhana per day.

You can do sadhanas with the mantras which have two or more seed syllables.

1. Surya Tantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om Hrim Ghrini Surya Aaditya Shrim’ for Lord Surya in Amaravati.

2. Navarna Sadhana with mantra ‘Om aim hrim klim chamundayai vichche’ for Ma Durga in Kadamba Forest.

3. Ma Siddhalakshmi Tantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om Shrim Hrim Klim Shrim Siddhalakshmyai Namah’ for Ma Laxmi in Golden Palace.

4. Dwadashakshari Tantric Sadhana with mantra ‘Om hasphrem khphrem hasaum haskhphrem hasaum hanumate namah’ for Lord Hanuman in Kishkindha.

5. Dwadashakshari Mantra Sadhana with mantra ‘Om ham hanumate rudratmakaye hum phat’ for Lord Hanuman at Kishkindha.

While doing these sadhanas dietary restrictions are almost compulsory. Take light food, eat fruits, vegetables, curd and milk which are easily digestible in less quantity. Whatever you eat, eat it slowly while chewing it very well with total mindfulness. Increase the time gap between the two meals so that the stomach is empty while doing the sadhana. In ‘Kundalini : An Untold Story’ Om Swamiji has mentioned, 'In any case, avoid spicy, oily and deep-fried foods. Being a vegetarian will greatly help your cause because vegetarian food infuses you with sattvic energy.'

If you still have any doubt you can drop a mail at chandrikashubham@gmail.com

How Intermediates Can Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

After progressing in sadhana practices when one can sit for quite a long time and can continue the practice for more than 11 days at a stretch then one can shift to a higher level. This extended duration and commitment help deepen the practice, foster discipline, and cultivate a stronger connection with the chosen mantra or deity. Progressive practitioners can experience heightened benefits and spiritual growth through this extended sadhana period.

In the intermediate stage, practitioners have the option to continue repeating the same mantras mentioned for beginners or focusing on sadhana with a single beej mantra or seed syllable. Choosing a single seed mantra helps in building up concentration by repetition and deepening the vibrational energy of the mantra. This practice enhances focus, spiritual progress, and attunement to the essence of the chosen syllable. It provides an opportunity for practitioners to develop the profound effects of a specific seed syllable and further improve their mantra sadhana.

In Sadhana App following are the sadhanas with one seed syllable:

1. Om gam ganapataye namah for Lord Ganesha as Ganapati Sadhana in Gajakarna.

2. Om hrim ashvatejasya adhovani svaha for Lord Surya as Kartik Sadhana in Amaravati.

3. Om hrim durgayai namah for Maa Durga as Durga Tantra Sadhana in Kadamba Forest.

4. Shrim for Ma Laxmi as Mahalakshmi Sadhana in Golden Palace.

5. Om klim krishnaya namah for Lord Krishana as Krishna Tantra Sadhana in Gokula

6. Hum janakivallabhaya svaha for Lord Rama as Rama Tantra Sadhana in Ayodhya.

The intermediate stage is designed for progressive practitioners who can sustain a 30-minute or longer sitting practice and maintain a routine for more than 11 days like 21, 25 or 30 days. 

At this stage, it is beneficial to practise dietary restrictions, such as avoiding non-vegetarian food, alcohol, fried food, spicy food, garlic, onion, coffee, tea or any other dietary restriction one wishes to impose on oneself. It helps in building up discipline and self-control, which are necessary for long-term advancement in sadhana. By consciously observing dietary guidelines, practitioners cultivate purity, clarity, and a healthy balance between body and mind. These restrictions help to improve one's energy, enhance focus, and develop a right environment for penance. However, the decision to follow specific dietary restrictions during sadhana is a personal choice, and individuals should consider their own beliefs and well-being in determining what aligns best with their spiritual practice.

If you still have any doubt you can drop a mail at chandrikashubham@gmail.com

How Beginners Can Select Sadhana(s) in Sadhana App?

For people who are starting their spiritual journey, there are two important practices recommended by Om Swamiji are Ganesh Sadhana and Gayatri Sadhana.

Ganesh Sadhana in Gajakarna Temple involves connecting with Lord Ganesh, who is known as the remover of obstacles. This practice helps us overcome challenges and brings blessings and success to our spiritual journey. It is often done through chanting a specific mantra or engaging in rituals dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Gayatri Sadhana in Vedic Forest involves chanting and yajna of the Gayatri Mantra, one of the most sacred and powerful mantras in Sanatan Dharma. This practice helps to purify the mind, awaken inner wisdom, and enhance spiritual growth. Focusing on Gayatri Mantra with devotion and understanding its meaning can bring clarity, peace, and spiritual illumination.

During the occasion of Navratri, it is recommended to engage in the nine-day practice of Navarana Mantra Sadhana in Kadamba Forest, as it yields manifold benefits such as it amplifies its potency, invoking the Goddess's protection, strength, and Her blessings. The Navarna Mantra, ‘Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayai Vichche’ is a powerful mantra associated with Mother Divine. It is considered as an auspicious time of intense spiritual practice and devotion, allowing devotees to connect deeply with the divine energy.

For those embarking on the path of mantra sadhana, it is often recommended to undertake Kartik Sadhana in Amravati Temple in Sadhana App. Kartik Sadhana involves dedicated practice and chanting of the Siddha Surya Mantra, a potent mantra dedicated to the Sun God. This sadhana is believed to invoke the blessings of the Lord Surya, promoting vitality, clarity, and spiritual growth. Chanting the Siddha Surya Mantra during Kartik month aligns one with the divine solar energy, enhancing inner radiance, wisdom, and positive transformation. It serves as a way to build connection with the lineage for beginners and to seek their blessings.

It is recommended to undertake Panchakshari Sadhana in Kailasha by chanting ‘Om Namah Shivaya’. This practice deepens the connection with Lord Shiva, fostering devotion and aligning with transformative energies. The Panchakshari mantra invokes the essence of Lord Shiva, representing inner peace and liberation. By engaging in this sadhana, individuals purify the mind, surrender to the divine, and experience the profound presence of Lord Shiva in their spiritual journey, amplifying the transformation and progression on the spiritual path. When you worship Mother Divine, it is believed that paying homage to Lord Shiva alongside her reinforces the balance between the divine feminine and masculine energies. It signifies the recognition that power and protection are best channelled through a harmonious union of both aspects.

For beginners, practising these five sadhanas (Ganesh, Gayatri, Panchakshari, Navarna Mantra, and Kartik) provides a strong foundation. These sadhanas encompass diverse aspects of spirituality, offering a well-rounded start to the journey of mantra practice and spiritual growth. These sadhanas are considered foundational practices, and can be performed in Sadhana App by the beginners as they provide a strong spiritual base and prepare individuals for deeper and more advanced sadhana practices in the future. It is recommended to approach these practices with sincerity, devotion and respect.

As a beginner in the path of sadhana, it is important to understand that you have the flexibility to practise sadhana in Sadhana App while travelling and that dietary restrictions are not mandatory. Still, if you can incorporate them into your daily life while engaging in sadhana, it can be beneficial and supportive to your spiritual journey. However, it is essential to remember that sadhana is a personal practice, and you have the freedom to adapt it to your specific circumstances and needs, ensuring that it remains a source of inspiration, growth, and inner connection for you. Remember that the intention and commitment you bring to your practice are paramount, regardless of external factors or dietary choices.

A beginner is encouraged to start with shorter durations of sadhana, such as 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 9 days, 11 days, to gradually build spiritual stamina and discipline, allowing them to adapt to the practice at a comfortable pace and experience its benefits while minimising the risk of exerting oneself physically, mentally, or emotionally. This approach recognizes the need for patience, gradual progression, and the importance of finding a sustainable balance in one's spiritual journey.

If you feel that shorter durations of sadhana are not sufficient, it is absolutely alright to repeat those short sadhanas multiple times to extend the overall duration and deepen your practice, allowing you to gradually increase your spiritual engagement and experience the desired benefits at a pace that feels comfortable and fulfilling for you. The focus is on finding a balance that suits your individual needs and capabilities while nurturing a consistent and dedicated spiritual practice.

For beginners while doing sadhana, it is advisable to keep the duration of chanting of mantra relatively short, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. It's important to note that when accounting for preparatory rituals and concluding ritual steps, the overall duration of sadhana may increase by approximately 15 to 20 minutes, summing up a total of 30 minutes to 50 minutes. It is recommended for ensuring a balanced and comprehensive practice for newcomers as they may not be accustomed to sitting for extended periods and may experience restlessness or difficulty in maintaining focus. By starting with shorter durations, individuals can gradually develop a habit of regular practice by achieving short term goals. 

The emphasis lies on establishing a steady routine and strengthening the qualities of endurance and mindfulness through dedicated practice. The concept behind this is very simple: when the mind acknowledges its limitations and accepts that certain things cannot be done for a specific period of time, it helps build patience, resilience, and an opportunity for personal growth. 

Do not forget to donate in the Sadhana App after you have completed the Sadhana.

May this article provide valuable insights and support in your spiritual journey. In case you are still confused, you can contact me at chandrikashubham@gmail.com.

My Spiritual Experience of Rama Nama Japa in Sadhana App

Tinde (round gourd) veg is delicious! 

I used the basic ingredients to cook the usual veg but today it tastes divine. Generally, I ate very small portion of humble vegetables such as tinde (round gourd), tori (ridge gourd), giya (bottle gourd), kaddu (pumpkin) and chappan kaddu (squash) as I did not relish them much.  I had found these vegetables mundane as they taste mild and slightly bland, their texture soft and slightly mushy when cooked. But as my sadhana progressed, I observed a newfound appreciation for their simplicity and subtle flavours.

When I was young, I only somewhat forcefully gulped these vegetables when they were given to me when I had fever by my mother because they are light and easy to digest. They have a weird slimy texture. As I grew up my taste buds changed a bit with the result, I did not hate any food rather thank God for each bite I took.

  

In the pursuit of spiritual growth, I recently embarked on the practice of Rama Nama Sadhana in Ayodhya of Sadhana App, a simple yet profound discipline centred around the repetition of the mantra ‘Rama, Rama, Rama, Rama………..’

Sadhana App informs that this potent mantra of one single word is enough to carry one across the ocean of samsara. In fact, Lord Shiva says to Ma Parvati, ‘rama rameti rameti, rame rame manorame, sahasranama tattulyam, ramanama varanane.’ That, O Goddess, I eternally and blissfully chant the name of Rama, for this one name is the equivalent of one thousand divine names. Chanting of this mantra invokes the bhakti of Lord Rama in the devotee’s heart. 

Recognizing that Rama Nama holds the essence of a divine chant, I incorporated it into my daily routine with the help of the sadhana practice in the Sadhana App.

Unexpectedly, I began to notice subtle shifts occurring within me. One remarkable change was a transformation in my culinary preferences, particularly in relation to humble vegetables such as tinde (Round gourd), Tori (Ridge gourd or angled luffa), Giya (Bottle gourd or calabash), Kaddu (Pumpkin), Chappan Kaddu (Squash). Previously, I had found these vegetables unremarkable, their taste mild and slightly bland, their texture soft and slightly mushy when cooked. But as my sadhana progressed, I observed a newfound appreciation for their simplicity and subtle flavours.

My usual practice involved dividing cooked vegetables into two portions—one for immediate consumption and the other to be stored for the following day. However, on this particular day, the tinde ki sabzi (round gourd veg) had captivated my senses to such an extent that I devoured both portions in a single sitting. This occurrence seemed unusual to me, but I attributed it to my devotion to Lord Rama, who, known for his simplicity, finds joy in uncomplicated living.

As I delved deeper into my spiritual journey, I began to comprehend the profound connection between deity and devotee. When we focus our attention on a particular deity, we gradually assimilate their qualities into our own being. Marjana, also called (Coronation or abhishekam), a ritual performed in the closing part of sadhana to honour oneself and carry the energy of the mantra, reflects this concept. It is believed that the number of offerings made in marjana is one-tenth the number of libations. By offering ourselves the same treatment as is meted out to gods, we elevate our own spiritual energy.

The tale of Lord Rama's encounter with Shabri exemplifies this phenomenon. Shabri offered Lord Rama nothing but simple berries, and he, in turn, savoured them with humility and grace. Similarly, through my Rama Nama japa and unwavering focus on Lord Rama, I started to experience a sense of simplicity and gentleness within myself, even though it had only been a week since I commenced the Rama Nama Sadhana.

This metamorphosis extended beyond the realm of taste preferences. From my mother's perspective, this transformation represented a profound spiritual experience. She witnessed how I, once particular and finicky about my food choices, had now become content and appreciative of whatever was served to me. In contrast to my childhood self, who exhibited fussiness and selectiveness, I now relished each meal, finding satisfaction in every dish that graced my plate.

Is this a spiritual experience? While some might debate its classification, the significance of this journey transcends such labels. The power of Rama Nama Sadhana and the ensuing transformation of my perception demonstrate the profound impact spiritual practices can have on our day-to-day lives. By immersing ourselves in the devotion of our chosen deity, we open ourselves to a world of subtle yet profound changes—a world where even the simplest of vegetables can become a source of delight and nourishment.

In less than a week's time, performing Rama Nama Sadhana has unlocked a deeper understanding of myself and Lord Ram. The interconnectedness between spirituality and everyday existence has increased many folds. It has taught me that profound spiritual experiences can manifest in the most unexpected ways, weaving their influence into the tapestry of our lives and guiding us towards greater simplicity, contentment, and gratitude.