GOVIDYAPITHAM

What indeed is Gokul? We wonder. The domain where Gopalkrishna, His mates the gopas, their cows along with

their calves lived a life of joy that is Gokul. The moment we set foot in the premises of “Govidyapeetham” that is precisely

what we feel, “Yes, this is it, this is Gokul.”

Govidyapeetham was established under the auspices of “The Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Upasana Trust” and thanks

to the blessings and guidance of P.P. Sadguru Shree AniruddhaBapu. Situated amid the beautiful natural environs of

Kothimbe and spread over about 18 acres of land, Govidyapeetham is a mere half an hour drive from the city of Karjat

(Raigad district) and can also be accessed from Panvel, Neral and even via Kadav. An aerial view of the topography

presents Govidyapeetham in the shape of the ear of a cow (Gokarna).The main entrance of Govidyapeetham faces the

Sahyadari Mountains and the old fort of Pet Village constructed during Chhatrapati Shivaji’s times. Beyond the mountains,

lies the ‘BheemaShankar Jyotirling’. An idol of Shree Ganesh established by an ancient sage is also to be found in the

Kadav Village. Not very far, in the village of Jarukh are the caves that date back to the era of the Pandavas.

Gopalvidya:

1. An effort to protect and nurture the cow, believed to be the dwelling of 33 crore deities.

2. To spread pure and sacred thoughts about the cow

3. To revive and impart the forgotten ancient Indian knowledge pertaining to the Govidya, the Gopalvidya, the

Gayatrividya as also to mantras that help earn merit, viz. the Gosukta, the Gomatimantra, the Surabhimantra, the

Gayatrimantra.

For the purpose of conducting a comprehensive research related to the cow and allied areas, the Govidyapeetham

houses -

1. Cow shed

2. Clinic for Treatment of Cows

3. Library and study unit

4. Laboratory

5. Research and Development unit

6. Govidyapuram

7. Unit for production and processing of milk

8. Cold Storage unit (Temperature Controlled area

GovindVidya:

‘Govind’ – He exists beyond the form as He does in the form, He is the Jagatguru, Lord Krishna. It is He, who comes

at

different

times,

assuming

that

one

form

of

the

Sadguru.

The following aspects will be included in the curriculum of the Govindavidya:

1. A study of the personality, mission, powers, values, ideology and the facets of the life of Shree Krishna.

2. A profound study of the present era falling back on the various facets of the persona of Shree Krishna, with the

purpose of arriving at solutions to problems prevalent in today’s times.

Darshan areas:

1. Shree Krishna Sabhapeetham

2. Pushkarinee Teertha

3. Dyaanakuteer (meditation huts)

4. Goshala (Cow shed)

5. Dhuni mata

6. Vat vraksha (Banyan tree)

7. Tulsi vrindawan

8. Digvijay Paduka

9. Dwarkamai

10. Deepotsav

11. Paapvimoc-hak Stambh

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In addition, under the academic curriculum a laboratory and a Research and Development wing has also been

established at the Govidyapeetham.

1. Shree Krishna Sabhapeetham

The main attraction of Govidyapeetham is the Shree Krishna sabhapeetham. An idol of the eight year old Shree

Krishna stands in the sanctum sanctorum of the sabhapeetham. 33 divine powers were invoked during a period of 33

days beginning from the 13th April 2002 to the15th May 2002. A group of 108 bhaktas recited the prescribed mantra and

the Abhishek too was performed on each of these days. The idol of Shreekrishna has the cow (Gomata) standing close

and gazing fondly His Feet. Four nanda deepas that burn round the clock illumine the sabhapeetham. Every pillar of the

sabhapeetham holds a painting of each of the 10 Gurus of Shree Aniruddha as also that of saints and bhaktas immersed

in the bhakti of Shreekrishna.

The sabhapeetham includes a huge seating area (sabhagriha) before the idol of Shreekrishna. Bhaktas may sit here

and pray.

The ten gurus of Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Bapu

1. Akhil Vishwadakshya Abhinandan Dattatreya

2. Mahapran Vajraang Hanumanta

3. Shree Vasishtha Muni

4. Shree Yadnyavalkya Rishi

5. Shree Vedvyas

6. Shree Vishwamitra Rishi

7. Sant Ramdas Swami

8. Shree Gurugobind singhji Maharaj

9. Bhagwan Shree Rishabdevji

10. Shree Vidyamakrand Gopinathshastri Padhye

The pictures of saints and bhaktas ever immersed in the bhakti of Shree Krishna:

1. Sant Tukaram Maharaj

2. Sant Meerabai

3. Sant Narsee Mehta

4. Sant Purandardas

5. Sant Surdas

6. Sant Deviandaal

7. Sant Eknaath Maharaj

8. Shri Chaitanya Gaurang Mahaprabhu

9. Sant Tyagraaj

10. Sant Tulsidas

Bhaktas may do the pradakshina of the sanctum sanctorum. Courses based on the Gopalavidya and the

Govindvidya will be conducted in the sabhapeetham.

2. Pushkarinee Teertha

In the exact centre of this sacred place is the ‘Muchkund Vriksha’ blessed by Shree Radha. The water used for the

Abhishekh of Lord Krishna’s idol waters the Pushkarinee Teertha. The Harivijay Granth states that 12 Parikrama of the

Muchkund Vriksha fills our life with joy. Bushes of the Krishna Tulsi demarcate the path of the parikrama. This entire area

emanates peace and tranquillity.

3. Dhyaan Kuteer

Close to the Pushkarinee teertha are the five Dhyaan kuteers (Meditation Huts). The floor of these huts has been

plastered with cow dung. This provides a very holy and pure atmosphere. The ambience in the Kuteers has been

rendered sacred and siddha by the blessings and grace of P.P. Sadguru Shreeaniruddha. Bhaktas with immense love and

firm faith, meditating in these huts have been graced with visions of their ishtadevataa near the old banyan tree (vata

vriksha) that stands opposite these huts.

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4. Goshala (Cow shed)

The two separate sections of the Goshala house 30 cows and bulls each. The area for cows also houses the calves.

Special areas have been systematically assigned for the supply of fodder and drinking water. Separate arrangements

have also been made for clearance of dung. An area has been allotted to facilitate the delivery of cows. An area of more

than 2 acres has been developed as grazing grounds for cows and their calves.

On the occasion of vasu baras in 2001, sawatsa dhenu (a cow that has a calf) made of mud was worshipped under

the ancient banyan tree. On the birthday of Sadguru Shreeaniruddha, 15 cows of the Gir breed and 3 bulls were brought

to the goshala. On 17th November five peacock feathers were worshipped with the chanting of chaturvyuhamantras. On

arrival of the cows one of these peacock feathers was put up in the goshala and the mud idol of sawatsa dhenu was

immersed.

The surplus milk collected in the goshala is sent to the Remand Home in Karjat. Mugdhatai Prasade, an expert in this

field and a veterinary doctor, Dr. Thakurdas take care of the cows.

5. Dhunimata

Exactly behind the cowshed in the direction of main hall is the dhunimata. On 8th August 2002, P.P. Suchitdada lit

the sacred fire (dhuni) in the presence of P.P. Sadguru Shreeaniruddha and P.P.Nandamai.

Dried cakes of dung, grass and samidha (wooden twigs meant to be offered in the sacred) are used to keep this

dhuni burning incessantly. This dhunimata blazes down the ill effects of the past deeds of bhaktas and thereby protects

them. Five pradakshinas are performed around the dhunimata. The pradakshina may be performed with the firm belief

that if I surrender all my vices unto the dhunimata, she will surely cleanse me of them. Udi collected here each day is sent

to the various Upasana centers and to the venue of the Thursday Pravachan for its free distribution to the bhaktas. The

daily prayers at the Govidyapeetham begin with the worship of dhunimata.

6. Vata Vruksha (The Banyan Tree)

700 to 750 years old, this tree is in the shape of the pindi of Lord Shankar. Symbolic of the Panchapurusharth, the

trunk of this Banyan tree is wide and is actually a group of five distinct trunks. Lord Dattatreya is believed to dwell here.

The owner of this land is known to have had the darshan of P.P. Sadguru Shreeaniruddha at this place even before he

ever actually physically saw or knew Him. This tree stands just beyond the grazing grounds of the cows.

7. Tulsi Vrindavan

This vrindavan was made as per the wish and instruction of P.P. Nandamai, in fact Laxmi. It is a practice to perform

five pradakshinas around the vrindavan, chanting the Ghorkastodharan Stotra and recalling all the while, Lord

Shreedattatreya in the mind. Bhaktas believe that this is the dwelling of Shreeradhaji. The pradakshina around the Tulsi

vrindavan rids of all misery and even fulfils the wishes of bhaktas.

8. Digvijaya Paduka

In the shape of a tortoise, this place reminds of the ‘Kurmaavataar’. Eight pillars support the main dais inside this

structure. Uttering the words ‘Hari Om’, Sadguru Shreeaniruddha conveyed sacred and divine vibrations into these pillars,

filling thereby the entire place with purity and sanctity. On 6th June 2001, at the auspicious moment of the braahma

muhurta,

a

radiant

Sadhu

gifted

Padukas

to

Shri.

Vijay

dada

Bhingarde.

On 13th April 2002 Vijaydada Bhingarde after reciting the mantras placed the paduka on his head and installed them at

this place. A picture of Shreekrishna with P.P. Sadguru Shreeaniruddha and Gomata (cow) standing before Him has been

installed

behind

the

padukas.

Every day the Digvijaya paduka poojan takes place before 9.00 a.m. There is a ‘yagya kund’ in the middle of the hall

where the following three types of yaags are performed:

1. Vyankatesh Kaivalya yaag : Mondays and Saturdays

2. Shree Mahaganpati Heramba yaag : Tuesdays and Fridays

3. Shree Dattaguru avdhoot yaag : Wednesday and Thursday

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On Sundays however, all the three yaags are performed.

9) Dwarkamai is awake once again…

On the beautiful morning of Kojagiri Poornima, Sadguru Bapuji proceeded from Happy Home to

Govidyapeetham Karjat, with a few devotees along with Him. All the fellow devotees who were travelling by

two buses and a few cars reached Govidyapeetham by 10.15 a.m. Though all of us have known each other for

quite a few years now but somehow of late had not met or interacted with one another due to lack of time

arising from generally other pre occupations in life. Each one's countenance was beaming with joy and pleasure

at the prospect of the reunion after such a long period. In spite of this joy every one one still had a single

question drumming in their minds – Why has our dear God unexpectedly called all of us collectively today?

What is exceptional that is going to take place today?

" Come Bapu has called all of you", immediately on receiving this communication, all of us on finishing

our breakfast proceeded towards Bapu. On reaching the main hall we could see a new structure on the left hand

side. We all started walking in that direction. We also took off our footwear before entering the place.

All our eyes shone up when we saw the scene inside the edifice. We saw P.P Bapu, Nandamai, Suchit

Dada and Sameer Dada in front of us. Bapu, started asking all of us, come and see, how do you all like this?

Time, minutes and years seemed to have stood still and all was erased from each one's mind. This is the most

beautiful moment! - it was the universal feeling being experienced by each one present there. Bapu was smiling

with immense joy and pleasure. He said, "So, do you recollect anything? Yes, this place where we all have

gathered is the Dwarkamai of Shirdi. Exactly the same.

Bapuji started explaining,"When Sainath was in Shirdi and the Dwarkamai that existed then - this is

exactly the same Dwarkamai, the unchanged Dwarkamai of the year 1916". Really on entering that structure

one wondered if the wheels of time had moved backwards? All present there experienced the identical thought.

Nearly after 90 years everybody had reached Sainath's era, all of us just could not believe what was happening.

Where 1916 and where we were in 2005 now?

We wondered what Hemadpant would have felt if he was amongst us now? The Sai of Shri Saisatcharit has

always given to the entire universe and is eternal. If Hemadpantji was here today, how pleased he would have

been, was the active thought that raced through our minds. Wish, he could have himself narrated all about

Dwarkamai to us today. The flooring on the ground was the same, the same walls, the same pillars, the same

place for Baba to sit, the same aasan, fireplace, the courtyard of Dwarkamai, the cooking place in the courtyard,

the place where Baba used to stand - everything was just exactly the same. The most important article was right

in front of Dwarkamai; it was the rock on which Baba used to sit and Sainathji's photograph above the rock.

What all do I observe? What do I experience? Where all do I look? This was the state all of us were in on that

day. The ones who recollected all the preceding memories just could not stop their flow of tears. Today nobody

could or wanted to control the tears of joy that were rising from the innermost being of one's self. Somebody

was surely sowing the seeds of Sai Aniruddha's love today.

Sameer Dada offered beautiful garlands both at Sai's photograph kept at the seat made of rock as well as

the dhuni. He then very lovingly and respectfully bowed and paid obeisance at both the places. All were

enthralled at this sight.

As per Bapu's instructions Sameer Dada installed our beloved Hemadpant's photograph in the Dwarkamai

and offered a garland to the same too and again bowed low very humbly. Then we all followed Bapu to the holy

Pushkarini tirtha. Here Bapu Himself installed the Garudstambh. Bapuji said," These two most important

devotees meaning Garud and Hanumant are not different from one another. After the Murlidhar main hall was

established, then for some time very important prayers were conducted here and only after the successful

completion of those Upasanas today we can install this pillar over here. On this pillar is the Garud, the eagle

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that is Ram's vehicle. This is the centre point, which will erase our sins, and Hanuman in any case is always

chanting Ram's name. In the Panchmukh Hanumatkavach Strotra when we see the face in the Panchmukhi form

we can understand the oneness of both.

Bapuji Himself paid obeisance to that pillar and after putting His ear to the pillar, He hugged the same very

lovingly. Bapuji said," Any kind and gentle being who puts his ear with full devotion to this pillar will surely be

able to hear the Ramnaam. The Mahapraan of the universe, Hanuman is incessantly chanting Ram's name.

After the installation of the Garudstambh Bapu brought all of us back to Dwarkamai. Bapu asked all of us

to sit in the open space there and He Himself along with Suchit Dada and Nandamai sat on the steps of the

Dwarkamai. Bapuji then said, "Any devotee can come here, if anybody wants to experience the Sai Satcharit

then that person has to just come and sit here. You can read the Sai Satcharit here, write the Ramnaam and if

nothing else you can sit facing Sainath's photograph and gaze lovingly and adoringly in His eyes. We can

experience the incidents and events that are described in the Sai Satcharit in this very place. Outside Dwarkamai

are planted all those trees that are mentioned in the Sai Satcharit." Suddenly nobody had any other world

existing at that place and moment, each one there was only eager to actually live the life during the time when

the Sai Satcharit was written. Dwarkamai was now fully awake and was arousing her little infants too.

Everybody was completely lost and totally immersed in Bapu's words and the peaceful environment resonant

there. The mangalcharan, the 11 promises, the gajjar of Sai's name and the grand finale was Sainath's arati.

Bapu was one with all the devotees during the singing of the prayers. Nobody wanted to leave this Gurukul; all

had the strong urge to be there forever. Soon it was 2.30 in the afternoon. All present in Dwarkamai were

actually experiencing the Sai Satcharit in some way or the other. Some read the 11th chapter of the Sai

Satcharit, some were writing the Ramnaam, some were narrating Baba's tales and some were talking about

grandfather Chaubal. Now the play of sun and shade since morning was replaced by dark clouds and soon after

some time it started raining. It kept pouring continuously. Everybody was reminded of the 11th chapter of the

Sai Satcharit. Bapuji said," For every true Sai bhakt, Sai Satcharit itself is Shirdi and the 11th chapter is

Dwarkamai and the Sai sitting in Dwarkamai is the blessing and grace that is received from reading the 11th

chapter.

" Purel Apurva Ichit Kaam. Vyahal Anti Purna Nishkam. Pavaal Durlabh Sayujyadhaam. Akhand Ram

Ladhaal"

This is the only verse in the Shri Saisatcharit where Hemadpant has given complete assurance about being

able to attain the eternal Ram. This is the Rudradhayay. Rudra meaning Shiv. Shiv also is ceaselessly chanting

Ram's name. Bapu then came back to Dwarkamai at 6.30 in the evening and did the installation of the Tulsi

Vrindavan in the courtyard of Dwarkamai and then initiated the Satsang. In the Satsang at first Das Ganu's

"Shirdi Majhe Pandharpur" was recited 5 times, then the Sairam Jaap, followed by the gajjar of Govind Krishna

Vithal, then Chaubaldada's gajjar – "Om Sai Shri Sai Jai Jai Sairam" was chanted. Bapuji addressed all by

saying, "Friends, This Dwarkamai is not a replica of the Dwarkamai in Shirdi but is the reinstatement of the

original Dwarkamai itself. My dear ones come again and again to this edifice, read the Sai Satcharit, write the

Ramnaam and keep on gazing lovingly at Sainathji. Where must be my Sainath seated? How would have

Mirikar come here? When Madhavrao was bitten by the snake, how he must have come running here? Try and

reminisce these events and through that learn to experience Baba. On coming here each being will experience

peace and a sense of balance.

The pure vibrations and the holy environment here have a lot to offer to all. You can even stay here; you

can sit the entire night in Dwarkamai.

"Lagta Ya Shalesh Paaye, Kaun Hatbhaagi Maghara Jaaye".

I give you full assurance that nobody who enters this place will go back empty handed. We all will come

here to celebrate the Deepotsav on the day of Kartik Ekadashi. This Dwarkamai has eight corners. Many

individuals have strived very hard to create this beautiful Dwarkamai. We must first and foremost leave the

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habit of making excuses when we are serving God or doing any work assigned by Him and more important than

that is that we must stop being untruthful in front of Him. He is filled with "Truth" Himself. When you speak

lies to Him, then even if He wishes to, He cannot help you. So please immediately stop being dishonest.

I am very pleased at seeing that each one has a Ramnaam book and each one is also seeming very eager to

complete this notebook. Ramnaam has a lot of strength. This is that one place which radiates energy to all in

equal proportion irrespective of the kind of person."

Bapu kept talking and we went on listening, and may these moments never ever conclude was the yearning

in each one's heart. It was in this very Dwarkamai that Baba had ground the grains to destroy the troubles in the

minds of the people. Sainathji lit the lamps of Bhakti in the hearts of each one. Whether atheist or devotee all

come to Dwarkamai for shelter in times of difficulty. Without any differentiation of this one is mine ant the

other is not, Sainath blesses each one with Udi and grace. Mahalsapati and Kote Patil have stayed awake many

a nights in this very Dwarkamai. The title of "Hemadpant" after the famous "Dhoolbeth" was awarded to

Hemadpantji in this very Dwarkamai. Das Ganu was blessed with the Prayag Darshan also over here itself. On

Diwali when Baba was refused oil, He lit lamps with the help of water instead, again in this very Dwarkamai.

P.P. Bapu's great grandfather and Sadguru Shri Vidyamakrand Gopinathshastri Padhye according to the wishes

of Swami Samarth had come to visit Sainathji at this very place and here itself He was asked, " Have you

recognized me now atleast?" This question was asked by Baba in this Dwarkamai itself. Not one or two but

innumerable devotees have come to Dwarkamai to meet Shri Sainathji. Each was sheltered and supported by

Dwarkamai.

One of the devotees asked Bapu why the foundation of the Dwarkamai was being performed on the

occasion of Kojagiri Poornima? Then Bapu explained that for this there are three beautiful and important

reasons. The first was the description of the incident of irrepressible rain when the weather was uncontrollable

and the way Sainathji had exhibited full control over the fury of nature in the eleventh chapter, the second was

when Das Ganu went to seek permission from Baba to go to Prayag and was told by Baba that your Prayag is

very much over here only and He was blessed with the Ganga and Yamuna river flowing from Baba's divine

feet and the most important reason was that Kojagiri Poornima was the day when Sainath had arrived in Shirdi

and was welcomed by Mahalsapati in the Khandoba temple with the greeting of " Come Sai". All these three

very important incidents had taken place on the day of the Kojagiri Poornima itself.

10) Deepotsav… Festival of Lights…

Our dear and revered Nandamataji came on the day of "Deep Amavasya" (new moon day in the month of

Ashad). On that day people light lamps in their houses and pray to goddess Mahalaxmi. Due to the absence of

the moon on the Amavasya day it is generally dark and in the Ashad month this darkness is even denser due to

the presence of heavy black clouds. This beloved mother of the devotees – Mahalaxmi, Sacchidananda wipes

out the fear that arises due to this darkness. This Sacchidananda Goddess Shakti is the one who is abundant with

supreme energy and this mother of the universe with Her radiance of grace completely eliminates this intense

unfathomable darkness.

It is Mother Saachidananda who illuminates countless lamps of bhakti, love, service, surrender and the

feeling of seeking shelter in the minds of the devotees and fills all the paths with light and energy. The mother

of the universe Chidananda is always very eager to forever light the lamp of eternal happiness and joy in the

heart of the devotee and eradicate the darkness of turmoil.

Nandamataji blessed us with delight by celebrating the festival of lights in Dwarkamai on the sacred

occasion of Kartik Ekadashi. The devotee who lights lamps in Dwarkamai with absolute dedication will have

his life always blessed and overflowing with the radiance and luminosity of bliss. He will never be entangled in

the twines of sadness, unrest, darkness instead he will always be sheltered under the umbrella of Saachinanda’s

grace. He will be able to easily balance his life as a householder and his spiritual pursuits together.

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We are all very well aware of how Saibaba had celebrated a unique festival of lights in Dwarkamai. Baba

used to get oil daily from the shops in Shirdi and with that oil He used to light lamps that shone through the

entire night in Dwarkamai. One year on a Diwali day all the shopkeepers in Shirdi refused to give oil to Baba.

Then Baba did the Brahmarpan of the little left over quantity of oil that was in the container and filled the same

container back with water and lit all the lamps in Dwarkamai with this water. Look at Baba’s miracle, the flame

of the lamps that He lit with the water was bright throughout the night, and Dwarkamai was sparkling and

dazzling in the light of these lamps. Soon this news spread in Shirdi and in the surrounding villages too. All the

people who came to see this event were completely amazed. Till then nobody was aware of Baba’s divine

powers and personality. Many were attracted to Baba due to this divine miracle of the mysterious Deepotsav in

Dwarkamai, this incident made people aware of Baba as the incarnation of god.

The heart of every devotee who came to Dwarkamai was kindled by Baba with the wick of faith and

patience and the lamp of true devotion was then fully lit transforming each one’s entire life into a festival of

lights. With the grace of our Sadguru let us also celebrate the festival of lights in our lives and let our complete

life progress in that divine glow. With this purpose in mind we should light the lamps here and pray –

"Tamso Ma Jyotirgamay"

11) Paapvimochak Pradakshina

The new practice of the ‘Paapvimoc-hak Pradakshina’ was initiated at the sacred location of

Govidyapeetham near Kothimbe - Karjat on the auspicious occasion of Gurupoornima. Placed right in front of

Shri Muralidharji’s statue is the Garudastambh around which one circumambulates. On this pillar two idols

each of Hanumanji and Garudji are existent. A single ‘Papvimoc-hak Kumbh’ is created with six green coloured

pots positioned one on top of the other. The six pots represent the six internal enemies of a person. These six

foes are: attachment, pride, anger, envy, passion, and greed, these are the main causes that lead a man onto the

path of sin. Only a Sadguru’s grace can completely obliterate our sins and help us to have power over our inner

foes and only bhakti towards the Sadguru will allow us to receive His grace.

On the Gurupoornima day the important pot was installed under the Garudastambh and an upasana was

initiated as per the guidance and permission of our Sadguruji. Since the day of Gurupoornima all of us have

been granted the opportunity of performing this Pradikshna. We need to carry the Paapvimoc-hak Kumbh either

on our head or in our hands and go around the Garudstambh for a minimum of 5 times and a maximum of 108

times. After which one has to go around the Pushkarini once. While doing both the Pradikshnas one must chant

‘Kalyug Mein Ek Hi Trata Aniruddha Ram Re, Mere Sangh Chale Bole Mera Jagjethi Re’. Then after that one

has to offer the Paapvimoc-hak Kumbh in the Paapdahak Agnihotra that is situated behind the Pushkarini and

finally one is required to go to Dwarkamai to prostrate in obeisance. The Paapvimoc-hak pradakshina when

performed with pure love and complete devotion will definitely yield us more and more of our Sadguru’s grace

and energy, which in turn will help us to get rid of our sins. We can offer 1,5 or 11 Paapvimoc-hak Kumbhs in

the holy fire. The number of times that we wish to do the pradakshina or the number of Kumbhs that we offer is

as per our own wishes or desire. We can perform this ritual as many times as we want to. This golden

opportunity of getting liberated from our sins in our present birth itself has been granted to us only by our

Sadguru’s grace. To get free from the cycle of birth and death and also to attain freedom from the

encumberment of all sins the Paapvimoc-hak pradakshina is the easiest and the most beautiful path.

The moment we set foot on the soil of the Govidyapeetham, it is bhakti and bhakti alone that engulfs us.

It is the love of the Govind that we drink in. This is the place where bhaktas forget their woes, their problems

and in fact the world outside only to lose themselves to true joy. The bhaktas of Gopal even forget themselves.

The one and only being they are aware of is, Him, His, the Govardhan Giridhari’s presence. The

Govidyapeetham is a domain that brings the bhakta close to his God, His Sadguru, His Govind. Besides, he,

who steps into these premises with pure bhakti, love, faith and surrender, is sure to hear the sweet melody of the

Murlidhar’s flute.

Come, let us all listen to the sweet tunes floating out of His “murli” and receive and be graced with the love of

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the Murlidhar Gopal, this Govind. Every speck of soil here resonates with the sound of His murli, its music, its

lure; the ambience here is full…. full with the sankeertan of ardent haribhaktas.

‘ Shree Krishna govind hare murari, he naath narayan vasudeva Radhe…….Radhe………Radhe

|| HARI OM ||

FINDING A 'GREEN' GANESH

FINDING A 'GREEN' GANESH
WESTERN SUBURBS Aniruddha Upasana Trust 503, Link Apartments, Khari Village,
Old Khar (W) Tel: 26057054 New English School Kerwadi, Bandra (E)

Shri Sadguru Shri Aniruddha Upasana Trust provided writers for the visually impaired persons who appeared for various examinations conducted by the department. They also donated food items during festive occasions like Diwali and Holi and also helped in getting the fencing for the garden.

THE HINDU

Paper pulp idols to curb water pollution

MUMBAI, SEPT. 12. In an attempt to reduce pollution caused by the immersion of Ganesh idols in water bodiesa city-based religious trust has embarked on a novelproject to spread awareness about an `environment-friendly' Ganesh idol.

The Shri Satguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust has put forth the idea of `water-soluble' paper pulp idols to replace idols made of Plaster of Paris, which pollute water. The trust has taken the initiative to promote the idea of chemical-free Ganesh idols. The organisation has a 13-point programme drawn up by their guru, `Bapu'.

"One aspect of this 13-point scheme is the recycling of paper. We already make various items such as toys and alphabet blocks from `papier-mâché'. So this year when Bapu asked us to try something similar for the Ganesh idol, we designed an idol made entirely from paper pulp," said Vilas Muley of the trust.

The traditional idols are made of `shaduchi mati' (clay), but since these are not commercially viable, the `murtikaars' (idol-makers) use Plaster of Paris, which is cheap and convenient for mass production, he said. — PTI

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This year numerous organizations, people and government are laying special emphasis on eco-friendly Ganesh idols. Shri Satguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust (SSAUT), headed by Dr Aniruddha Joshi (popularly known as Bapu), has been creating environment friendly Ganesha idols from paper pulp during the last couple of years. This year the Trust has received over a thousand orders from Mumbai itself. In 2008, Ganesh Chaturthi is on September 3.

The Ganesh idols of Satguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust use papier mache and vegetable paints. Since these idols are made from cheap and natural materials, the cost of a finished 12 feet paper pulp Ganesh idols is less than 1500 rupees. The price of small idols range from Rupees 125 to 600. The workshop of Satguru Aniruddha Upasana Trust (SSAUT) which is involved in making the idols is in Bandra.

The growing number of people opting for eco-friendly Ganesh idols is a clear indication of the success of awareness campaign conducted by individuals and organizations. The BMC has already requested Ganesh Committees in Mumbai to use eco-friendly idols and if they are using Plaster of Paris idols to reduce the size.

In Pune, the nerve center of Ganesh Festivals in Maharashtra, eCoexist and several other organizations are campaigning for Shaddu (Natural Clay) idols.

There are also strong campaigns in other districts in Maharashtra for pollution free Ganesh Chaturthi. NGOs and governments in Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are appealing to people to use clay Ganesh idols painted with natural paints.

The message of eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi has only reached certain sections of the society. Ganesh Chaturthi is a mass celebration and for the campaign to be more effective local language newspapers and electronic media needs to be used more aggressively. Something like what the campaigners did for voting for Taj Mahal during the now controversial New Seven Wonders campaign.

Now, paper pulp idols Preeti Mudliar

Pune, September 24: For about 35 families in the city, this Ganeshotsav has been a celebration of the environment as well. Welcoming Ganesh idols made of paper pulp into their homes, they ensured that they did not contribute to the unholy water pollution caused by immersing idols of Plaster of Paris.

All thanks to Mumbai-based Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Upasana Trust that, while researching for an alternative to the pollution caused by Plaster of Paris idols, chanced upon the feasibility of moulding idols out of paper pulp. This year we decided to address the root of the pollution and experimented with making idols of paper pulp. he idols are simple to make, with the whole process lasting just eight days. ‘‘The idols can be made out of waste raddi paper soaked for three days. It is then ground into pulp and left to dry. Then it is mixed with clay and arrowroot powder. This mixture is pressed into readymade moulds and dried for three hours.’’ Starting in August, the trust made close to 300 idols of six, nine and 13 inches, costing Rs 75, 150 and 175 respectively. With around 185 centres across India it received 235 orders for Mumbai, 35 came from Pune.

Says Pravin Wagh, head of the Pune centre, ‘‘All Pune members who install Ganesh idols at their homes, opted for the eco-friendly paper pulp idols from Mumbai. Natural products helps in curbing pollution.’’

ECO-FRIENDLY-GANESH IDOLS

This year Ganesh Chaturthi will be a little less polluting.
A Mumbai-based non-governmental organisation, the Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Upasana Trust, headed by Dr Aniruddha Joshi aka Bapu, has taken up the task of spreading awareness about environment-friendly Ganesh idols.
"One-and-a-half months back we decided to encourage people to make Ganesh idols using paper pulp, which will reduce pollution and won't harm fish," said Sandhyaveera Jaykar, a member of the trust.
Earlier, Jaykar said, idols were made of clay, which is not easily available and is heavy. So artists started using plaster of paris, which is cheaper and lighter, and chemicals. But these cause pollution.
Ganesh Chaturthi: The Complete Coverage
The organisation collects waste paper, shreds it, and turns it into pulp, which is then rinsed, dried, and again put into a mixer to get fine powder. The powder is then mixed with water to be made into papier mache. Around 20 per cent clay and starch is added to the material so that it binds well.
Except for the golden colour used for the crown and other ornaments, the colours used are natural, mostly vegetable dyes.
"Golden colour makes the idols attractive," Jaykar said. "We are trying to find out how to make eco-friendly golden colour."
Idols prepared in this fashion dissolve in water within a few hours. "We got a very good response from people, who called us from various places to congratulate us for our efforts," she said. "We also received idol orders from them."
This year the trust made idols in three sizes — 6, 9, and 13 inches high, costing Rs 75, Rs 150, and Rs 175, respectively. They received orders for 235 idols from Mumbai and 35 from Pune.
"Making Ganesh idols using paper pulp is easy and anyone can come to learn it from us," said Chetan Dabholkar, another member of the trust. "We do not charge any fee."
Also See: The Ganesha Collector
The trust has also approached professional idol-makers to teach them how to make the eco-friendly idols. "We taught an idol-maker from Pen, where a lot of idols are made," said Dabholkar. "He has agreed to promote the use of paper pulp in idol-making."
The trust's job doesn't end with making idols, though. There is also a post-immersion plan in place, where devotees visit various seafronts a day after the immersion and collect all the idols that have floated back. These idols are then re-immersed.
Also, the floral offerings, which are not allowed to be thrown into sea, lie scattered on the beaches. These are also picked up and taken away for vermiculture.
We are making 2,500 paper pulp idols this year
We first started creating eco-friendly idols with the idea of preventing water pollution that kills aquatic life. The idea came from activist Aniruddha Joshi who has been at the forefront of this campaign to promote the use of eco-friendly idols. Our organisation has been making toys for students in rural areas from paper mach�. So, we decided to make idols from the same material. Initially we used paper pulp mixed with clay and now we use only paper pulp. All colours used to paint the idols are safe as per the permitted toxic levels. We researched for one year to arrive at the best method for making these eco-friendly idols. This year we've made 2,500 such idols. People from around the city have understood the importance of installing environmentally safe idols. Our volunteers sculpt the idols that range from six inches to four feet in height.
--Sunil Mantri. CEO, Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Upasana Trust
Use clay and natural colours
You have to consider the 'scale' of the immersion before delving into its other aspects. If only a few were immersed in the Arabian Sea it would be okay. However, thousands of idols are immersed in the Arabian Sea every year during Ganeshotsav. Most of these idols are made up of Plaster of Paris (PoP). A major drawback of PoP is that it does not dissolve easily. As a result, idols disintegrate into rocky lumps and when these hit the seabed, they cause a churning effect. As a result, all the pollutants that are long settled on the sea-floor, mix with the water above. This entire process has a disastrous effect on the marine life among which the fishes are worst impacted. When humans eat fish with toxic substances, it leads to various ailments related to the digestive system. Besides PoP, the paint applied on the idols is very eco-unfriendly. During the immersion, pollution is also caused by plastic bags containing flowers and other puja material that are dumped into the sea. The only way out of this vicious cycle of pollution is to make idols of clay. I know this might sound a little impractical considering the fact that some of the idols are many feet high. But at least the smaller idols can be made with eco-friendly substances. Idol makers can use eco-friendly paint on the Ganesh, which would go a long way in mitigating marine pollution.
--RV Sharma. Scientist-in-charge, National Institute of Oceanography, Regional Head of Mumbai
The PoP and toxic paints used in the creation of the idols cause a lot of damage to the environment. Other accessories, like puja material or the nirmalya, add to the water pollution. PoP is basically a calcium sulphate hemi-hydrate derived from gypsum. It takes anywhere between a year to three years to fully dissolve. Chemical paints contain heavy metals, namely, mercury and lead. These are poisonous and seep into the water as soon as the idol starts dissolving. This causes the levels of two harmful contents in the water to increase: the acid content and the total dissolved solids (TDS). During the day the dissolved oxygen content increases and at night it decreases. This means that water-dwelling plants and animals get insufficient oxygen. The alternative would be to make idols with natural clay and natural colours as was the case in the olden days. In fact, even today many people make idols of natural clay. Also, some people choose to immerse the idol in a tank or bucket instead of a natural water-body. Or why not have a metal idol and sprinkle water on it to symbolise immersion? This is another advantage of using natural clay. Parking huge pots at immersion sites for disposal of nirmalya material is also a great idea. This will eliminate the needless pollution caused by them.
--Prashant Mahajan. Environmentalist, Bombay Natural History Society
Encourage the use of eco-friendly images
We keep a silver Ganpati at home and take it out to worship every year during the festival. We immerse it at home in a bucket of water. I think the mayor has taken a good initiative to make the festival more environmentally friendly. People are becoming more and more aware of the harm caused by PoP images and toxic paints. The government should make it compulsory for people to install eco friendly Ganpatis.
--Dipaali Bhosle
Make clay idols widely available
We have been getting Ganpati home from the last eight years. We usually get a PoP Ganpati as clay images are not available everywhere. We immerse the idol at the Malad beach but make sure that we cause as little pollution as possible. What the mayor is suggesting is a very good idea indeed. But I think they should first make sure that clay Ganpatis or even the artificial water tanks are accessible to all people.
--Siddharth Mishra

" I am just a normal man "---- Shree Aniruddha Bapu

Under the invaluable guidance of Sadguru Shree Aniruddha, the Sadguru Shree Aniruddha Upasana Trust has launched the Shree Govidyapeetham Project. A 16 acre area in the vicinity of Karjat has been designated for the purpose. This unique project intends to make use of sophisticated equipment like the laboratory, the chiller room, etc. only as and when the need may arise. All activity will otherwise be conducted in natural surroundings.

The two essential aspects of the Govindyapeetham project are :
1) Gopalavidya 2) Shree Govindavidya or in other words, " Facets of the life of Shree Krishna"

Gopalavidya : The Indian culture worships the cow believing her to be divine and a source of life and energy.Modern science too emphasizes the importance of and values the cow, her milk, her excretory products, viz. The Gomutra and the Gomaya. Balram is known to have reared and groomed the "Gir" breed of milch cows. The Gopalavidya too aims at grooming and nuturing the cow and conducting research in the field. The project will also focus on a comprehensive study of our culture that associates sanctity with the cow and believes her to be a source of vital energy. Actual rearing activity with the help of modern amenities and equipment will also be undertaken with a view to understand well, all aspects involved in this 'vidya' of rearing and grooming cows. Not only the Hindu religious texts but also the Jain, the Parsee and the Sikh sacred texts too recognize and believe the cow to be a divine and holy being. It is also an accepted fact that the cow with all its goodness has a general virtuous effect on our lives and can thus lead to the welfare of the entire humanity.

Govindavidya : Govinda is Shree Krishna. His persona, His life, His powers, His role, His ideology and His value system put together compose the Govindavidya. To study the Govindavidya. And arouse thereby 'love', love for Shree Krishna and to become aware of and feel His love for us is indeed the primary goal of this project. Govidyapeetham is the foundation on which 'bhakti', 'dharma' and valour will flourish. The architect of this design is none other than Shree Krishna Himself …..and so none other than the Poornavatar Aniruddha who has come with Sudarshan Chakra.

Prominent features of the Govidyapeetham.

# A magnificent temple of Shree Krishna bearing the Govardhan mountain on His little finger,
will be built on the 16 acre land at Shree Kshetra Kothimbe , near Karjat.
# The darshan of the Gurus of Sadguru Shree Aniruddha in 10 of the forms He had assumed at
various different times alongwith the darshan of the of the mates of Shree Krishna.
# The study and research of Gopalavidya and Govinavidya.
# Striving towards a solution to the problems that life is faced with today, falling back on the
Bhagwat Geeta ( told to Arjun to indicate to him, his duty, his dharma) and the Uddhav Geeta
or the bhagvat ( told to Uddhav to till and prepare the terrain of his mind) as frames of reference,
will be an important endeavor of the Govidyapeetham.
# The actual rearing and grooming with help of modern equipment, of the Gir breed of milch cows will be undertaken for the purpose of an in-depth and a comprehensive study of the various aspects of the Gopalavidya of Shree Krishna. To drive home to the masses and to reiterate the importance of the milk, the curds, the butter, the buttermilk and the ghee, all made from the milk of the cow is one of the principle tasks of the Govidyapeetham.
# The revival and restoration of ancient Indian wealth, unfortunately lost in the tide of time, viz.
Ancient vidyas like the Govidya, the Gomatividya, the Gayatrividya alongwith some effective
mantras like the Gosukta, the Gomatimantra, the Surabhimantra and the Gayatrimantra is an
important objective of the project.
# Physical training and exercise alongwith the training in the ancient martial arts are part of the
curriculum and will be conducted in the midst of nature.

In the Dwapar age, Lord Krishna initiated new times that moulded the social order and were based on a new philosophy and a new value system These were times that had our culture and values at the helm and core. May the vidya of the great Shree Krishna, the author of this new era be fruitful. The Govidyapeetham takes up this thought at its very basic intent.

The events of the life of Shree Krishna portay His dharma undoubtedly leading to the achievement of Purushartha, does eventually even lead to moksha or liberation. The Govidyapeetham too is his very own design . It is Shree Krishna's, Lord Mahavishnu's and so Sadguru Aniruddha's.