~~OM~~
General
I am very thankful to Swamiji as well as all his helpers. It has made it possible for me to have a firm start on sadhana in this past year on a better level than ever before. I now chant and do puja on a daily basis and if you knew me you would know how difficult it is for me to discipline myself to have a regular practice.
Things flow much more easily now and things that used to bother me are reduced in importance. This is all Shree Maa's and Swamiji's grace. From Maa I get timeless wisdom and love and from Swamiji I get self empowerment in spiritual matters. How exhilirating and beautiful that is. I read a lot of messages from various spiritual teachers and organizations and none compare to what I get from Devi Mandir.
Jai Shree Maa, Jai Swamiji!
Kumari, Canada
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Swamiji, with the utmost respect and devotion I make pranams to your lotus like feet.
I am 33 years of age and a Hindu Pandit in my country, Trinidad and Tobago. For the past seven years, by the grace of the Divine Mother, I have been able, with the co-operation of my Hindu community to perform Devi Utsav in Trinidad during Dussera.
This festival has now become popular in my country as our Mandir has become a focal point of devotion during Navratri.
I would like to acknowledge that without reading your books, Chandi Path and Devi Gita, I would not have been able to fulfill my dreams of doing this yagna.
Satyanand Mahabir
***
Dearest Swamiji,
The materials I have received from Devi Mandir, both purchased and generously gifted, have been so enriching to my practice and those I share with. Thank you for the joy they bring! But even more I wish to thank you for the enthusiasm you have renewed in my heart. Sahib Sadhu and Enkindling the Yajna have done so much to put the party back in my puja! Sometimes ecstasy comes ecstatically. My fiance likes to refer to me as her Smiling Sadhu, a loving title for which I bow to you.
With devoted pranams,
Marty
***
Dear Swamiji,
I just want to take a moment to thank you as deeply as I can from as deeply in my heart as I can go. Words can do nothing to express how grateful I am for you showing up in my life and guiding me. I have spent countless hours absorbing your teachings through your website and chanting your translated mantras. You are the embodyment of how I seek to live my life. And to have you here and to aspire to be your mirror is one of the greatest blessings I have ever recieved in my life.
The only way i can prove that I really mean it is to do the sadhana and vow to continue to teach this to the next generations. My desire is to be a vessel in which your life's work will continue to flow through. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I bow to your feet and I look up to you. Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namaha. Victory to ma, you, and your work.
Dan
***
Nothing can quite prepare you for what awaits you at the Devi Mandir. The books I had studied, whose words tended to float around in my head every day of my life, dropped away soon after my arrival. I found my well-enforced personality defenses unexpectedly disappearing and I turned into a stuttering child, suddenly unsure of herself. But through all my nervous stumblings and wordy questions, compassionate encouragement underlay everything.
Manya Devi, Canada
***
Beloved Swamiji,
Thank You so much for the Beautiful Chandi Homa this morning. It was so powerful and precious, and assisted in dissipating the fear and grief we have been grappling with. Jai Maa! Also, Beloved Holy Father, we want You to know how very much we love you, and how deeply grateful we are for Your Presence in our lives.
Your wisdom, Your kindness, Your Joy and Enthusiasm, Your Encouragement, Your Brilliant Light, Your Immense Patience, Your Sweetness, Your Consummate Devotion, Your Supreme Discipline, Your Sacrifice, Your Courage, Your Commitment to Her and to all of us, and Your Perfect Example are cherished by all of us, and there is no way to repay such a debt, except to follow in Your Footsteps, and use Your Example to become the very best that we can be. Meanwhile, we offer You our Deepest Gratitude and our Heartfelt LOVE!
With All Our Love and Blessings Always,
Sanatani, Marty, and Prasad Urban
***
Respected Sir,
I have visited this site and have very high regards for your devotions. I have listened to the Durga Path recited by Swamiji and Shree Maa on the eve of Navratri and got a lot of inspiration and mental peace.
I offer my heartfelt best wishes to the organizers of this mesmerizing website.
regards
Ashok Purohit
***
Adarniya Swamiji,
Humble Pranams at Your Lotus Feet!
Starting tomorrow I go on complete seclusion for whole 9 days so wanted to say THANK YOU for the upcoming Sunder kand recitation on April 4th by none other than you!! I am so fired about it!
When I was sitting in that Sankatmochan Temple in Varanasi last October, awaiting your arrival....I was watching all the monkeys in the vicinity being just "monkeys". Well, I don't know what happened next. All I remember is being carried away in the loud charges of "Siya Bal RamChander ki jay, ......" I truly felt myself being one of monkeys writing Shree Ram on the stones and shouting Shree Ram ki Jai!! I had done Sankatmochan before and heard it on professional CD's but this was the first time I lost track of time. I felt so charged that I had goose bumps all over and even now as I recall that experience!! Your rendition of Sunderkand is a gift....for the ears, the eyes, and most importantly the soul which bows in humility to your immense talent!! Once again, Swamiji thank you....
Oh! about those monkeys, somewhere in the middle of the Sunderkand, the monkeys became quiet whereas we all became "monkeys" shouting and throwing our hands in the air!!
May Lord Hanuman continue to Bless You with His Energy, Strength, Joy, and Enthusiasm because it is an experience that cannot be explained or duplicated!
Humbly and Sincerely,
Neelam from Phoenix
***
Dear Shree Maa and Swamiji
Please accept my and my family's heartfelt pranam, Jai Maa, and gratitude for your help. Today doctors declared immense satisfaction with the results of my father's specialized tests. There has been great progress on very key parameters, indicating very encouraging response to the current line of treatment. Many other indicators have already come within normal range. The decision is to continue this approach, and then see how things look with respect to these parameters after another six months. The doctors were very encouraged and happy.
As I type this message, and watch you both performing your pujas on the webcams, I am filled with an overwhelming emotion of truly seeing the value of your contribution and help in this regard. This sentiment is also true regarding contribution of Devi Mandir Family members. May the almighty fulfill all of Shree Maa's designs and aspirations. I say this with the utmost sincerity, honesty, and truth I can muster.
Your loving son,
Rajeshwar Datta
***
Param Pujya Shree Maa and Swamiji,
Hardik Pranam at your Lotus Feet
Suresh and I join others in offering koti koti pranams and thanks for the wonderful Shivrathri celebrations last Sunday night and Monday morning!! We appreciate all the hard work and love that went into making it spiritually, mentally and emotionally elevating! In all the years of celebrating Shivrathri most of my adult life, this one truly tops it for me! I thank the Lord for sending you both to help lost souls like us! May the Good Lord continue to Bless you both with vibrant health and looooong life so that we can bask in your sacred presence and purify ourselves.
Jai Maa and Jai Swamiji!
Sincerely,
neelam and suresh ratan
***
Dear Wonderful family,
I want to share with you all the magic of Benares. I returned yesterday. The weather was perfect in Benares. It is amazing that despite being chaotic Benares exudes peace.
There were devotees from many parts of the world and I met a small part of the Devi Mandir family.
I met Maa and Swamiji for the first time and was overwhelmed by the energy they radiated. Their spirituality affected everyone, evoking the best in all of us.
We spent a magical evening in Sankatmochan temple, singing the Sunderkand. The Abhishek of Annapurna Devi and then the chanting of Durga Pathah were absolutely divine. Swamiji even took time out to give us beginners a small talk on the Sanatana Dharma.
Their love, their way of making everyone feel special and welcome, their kindness, their simplicity and transparency have stayed in my heart and I bring home with me a deep feeling of peace and love.
Blessed are you who have the privilege of being with them!!
I fell in love with them.
Maa's intuitive remarks and Swamiji's deep learned insights and their practical down-to earth approach to life.
May God Bless them and keep them, for us, always!
Jai Maa and Jai Swamiji
Manjushri, Iran
***
Namaste!
The trip was truly remarkable in many ways, on many levels. On the most physical level, I can say that nothing could have prepared me for being in India. And while the
noise, pollution, and endless crowds of people took its toll on my body, my understanding of the country, the history, the people, and especially the religions, has been
vastly enriched.
Briefly, some highlights, were bathing in the Ganges, chanting at Manikarnika Ghat (the cremation site), visiting the places where Sri Ramakrishna and Sri Sarada Devi
lived, and going to M's home (the author of The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna) and sitting down and talking with M's great grandson, his last remaining relative. After showing us
around M's home, he gave us insights into M's life with Ramakrishna while we sat and sipped tea and ate cookies. It was really thrilling!
Swamiji's homas were beyond words -- the energy that emanated from Him was palpable and we all sailed through our chanting with great joy and love. Of course, any moment spent in the presence of our Beloved Shree Maa defies words, but being able to sing and dance and take in all that unconditional love, while standing on the holy land of India, easily became overwhelming. It was as if my heart, literally, had to expand in order to take it all in!
Jai Maa! Jai Swamiji! Jai India!
Ambika, Princeton, NJ
***
It has been a month since the India trip and I'm still at lost - I don't know how to describe my feelings from meeting you, Maa and enjoying every single moment in the Kirtans, chanting Chandi Maa, participating in the Homa and receiving Darshans from you & Maa. This is the truest definition of "party", and the best party I've ever been to!
It is like a dream come true - I never thought I'd get to meet you and Maa. Every time you and Maa blessed me, I felt like it was some kind of initiation taking place over and over again, I feel like my heart has opened up.
Varanasi felt like a place I've been to before, strangely familiar and spiritually attractive. Every morning, I hear voices of people singing "Om Namah Shivaya" from Varanasi, in my waking moments I remember the energy and enthusiasm in the Kirtans sung every evening and before I go to sleep, I see your firm determination and joyfulness and Shree Maa's overflowing love, sweetness and purity. Now I look at the pictures of you and Maa I have at my altar and I'm reminded of Shiva, Shakti, Sarasvati, Guru! Suddenly, they are more alive to me than ever! I feel like the pictures of deities in my altar speak to me, I feel their presence more than ever! You and Maa are always with me.
Swamiji & Maa, I'd like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your explanation of the scriptures - for they answered (and they're still answering) my doubts. Because of you, this mind is able to understand how much it doesn't know...how insignificant it is.
JAI MAA! JAI GURU!
Love Love Love,
Vidya Bharati, Malaysia
***
Dear Family Members,
I have been trying to pen down my experience - the privilege of being near in person of two divine entities few times, but this keyboard cannot express my feelings now.
Only after several pranams to Ganeshji and Saraswathi Maa allowed me success in this attempt and still only tears come. This predicament is wholly caused by Swamiji and Shree Maa. It was like a dream being in their presence with my family. Devotees flock every moment to Their feet, to their lap, even if physically they could not devotedly be near. The eyes of the devotees blink only for milli-seconds so as to not lose Them from their sight.
Sweet was my "tongue" with Their prasad offering after every prayer in Mira Mandir. Proud were my "ears" to confirm these audio recording was truly Shree Maa's beautiful lovely voice. My body shivers in shyness seeing how Swamiji and Shree Maa thought not physically well move with out any bound with their children on the spiritaul sphere.
Finally, in front of them I was lost for words. (I think now asking boon in Chandi Path for only true devotion was lot more easier than this!). Swamiji exclaimed, "Mantra? Mantra ?", when I came to garland Them and I felt how unfair was this test. My tongue could not say anything when Maa Saraswathi and Brahma are sitting in front me - She is not sitting on my tongue anymore but in FRONT of me! I was lost in their spiritual aura. That was it! After years of practice and I could not even say a word in front of them. I felt my hand shaking and my eyes locked into the deep blue eyes of Swamiji. I saw Shree Maa smiling knowingly at my predicament. Maa, only you understand this child's state!
It has been so many years in this earth not meeting somebody you want to meet to so much .... and when the moment came, there were no words to describe it. So many time my son Trilochan asked his mother, "Why is father in tears?" He has not seen me like that before. Even now I can see Swamiji smiling knowing how this all have unfolded. It is
difficult to pen my experience my brothers and sisters, so many thoughts are rushing. I really don't know where to start. I am overwhelmed by wanting to share what I felt on those moments, but sadly, words are not coming to my aid.
All I could say right now is, "Maa thanks for everything, for letting me see Swamiji Maharaj." To whoever arranged for this trip and Mira Mandir, "thank you for making it possible." Sanjayji what can I say - "thank you for saving Maa and Swamiji from our mad rush of devotion by ushering them to their rest room." Parvathi Maa you are the avarana devata of that divine being - it beautiful to see your seva for that Divine Mother of Universe! Kamala Maa without you it would be not possible for us to understand what is next in this divine play. Sushilji privileged are you to been serving and continue to serve Swamiji, I take the dust of your feet always. Swami Vitalananda, your concern for us while we are lost in swirl pool of devotion was touching. Thank you Swamiji. Not all names come to mind as Swamiji's vision even this moment does not allow the rest of my thinking to be done fairly.
It was so hard to let go when Swamiji was leaving - I was clasping his hand hoping not to let go but it (the parting) had to happen. Seems like the prayer of Her children in Napa, Calfornia won the boon again!! Now, I will bury my self deeper in the Chandi Path recitation to take away my sadness and again attempt the boon of pure devotion - to tear apart the thought of separation from loved ones!
I thank you all here for making this beautiful incident possible in my life. All I can say for now Jai Maa!!
Kanna Krishnan, Malaysia
***
I feel blessed to be included in this trip of India, as it definitely has to do with my past karma that has united me, I should say that I am a 'lucky soul' and my luck took me to these levels and is giving me an opportunity to remain and excel with such high levels of spirituality in this lifetime.
I am ever so grateful to be united with the 'Shreemaa' group, thank you so much for inviting me. In terms of my health issues, I struggled with an inflamation of the muscle in my left leg throughout the trip, however, at returning, what I have realized is that, my leg is about 99% better, and my legs are much much stronger, actually I feel much stronger, and have higher levels of energy.
Although 'sleeping' wants to become my new hobby, however, it took me longer to bounce back to 'normality' after this trip, as opposed to three other trips I have made to India. Now I can easily fall asleep at any point in time, I do not suffer from insomnia anymore.
What I experienced at the 'Hanuman Temple' while chanting the 'Sundar Kanda' was some connection with my past life, it seemed that I had been there before, as chanting the 'Sundar Kanda' was so beautiful and I did not want it to end, the shakti, the energy, the ambience, the presence of some'thing', energy so very divine was so that cannot be put into words.
Thank you again Shree Maa and Swamiji, and meeting the rest of the members of Shreemaa.org was also an awesome experience.
Love, Lada
***
Namaste Swamiji,
Thank you again for your wisdom and perspective. Your feedback sits with me deeply and will be something I walk within, listen for and learn to understand over these coming months. I hope to find truth in this path that I am on, and to make decisions that continually take me closer to mutually-shared pure love, acceptance and support.
I hope to be able to connect with my friend around your counsel, and that she and I may find a virtuous and blessed way together... or to virtuously and blessedly come to know that our ways may not be best served together. I hope we're able to richly connect around this and to find what's true.
Thank you again.
Love, G
***
Shree Maa: Recollections by Linda Johnson
Learning that my husband had deadly form of bone cancer was a horrible shock. For nearly a year the doctors had been telling us that the pain in Johnathan's leg was just a torn muscle. Now at least we knew the truth: it had been a malignant tumor all along, a particularly virulent form of cancer that is nearly impossible to treat.
As the grim diagnosis sank in, I thought of Kali, the Hindu Goddess who destroys everything that is less than divine. Suffering and death are two of the tools She uses to drive us back to God. There was a mantra for this Goddess that Shree Maa repeated constantly while we traveled with her in India. I asked Johnathan if he remembered it and he spoke the manta out loud. Before he reached the last syllable the phone started ringing.
It was Shree Maa.
The last we heard, Shree Maa was still in India and was not expected back to the United States for several more weeks. It turned out two days previously she had abruptly changed her plans, flown back to her ashram in California, picked up the phone, and called Johnathan.
We explained what was happening and the next day we had an extraordinary blessing of having Shree Maa, one of the most beloved saints of North India, visit our home in Sonoma. She and Swami Satyananda sat with Johnathan for hours, singing hymns to the Divine Mother, recommending protective mantras for us to chant and healing rituals we should perfume. Placing her hand of Johnathan's head, she gave him her blessing.
Two days later we received an emergency call from Johnathan's doctor. He explained that he had just received the results of Johnathan's biopsy and it completely contradicted the results of all previous tests they had run. It turned out Johnathan did not have incurable bone cancer after all, but another type of cancer that could be treated easily. (To this day Dr. O'Donnell insists he and the team of oncologists he was working with were certain Johnathan had bone cancer, and the fact that it turned out to be a different type of malignancy came as a total shock to him.)
Johnathan is fine now, though we continue doing our protective mantras and healing pujas daily just in case. Johnathan did have to go through chemotherapy and radiation treatment (which he sailed through effortlessly) because it was our karma to experience this medical crisis. Yet somehow Shree Maa shifted the course of reality so that the full impact of our karma was blunted, and the awful outcome the doctors originally predicted never happened.
"She arranges the stars for you," Swami Satyananda smilingly told Johnathan after the tumor disappeared. How amazing that in these dark and cynical times, saints like Shree Maa still walk among us. How utterly amazing!
From Shree Maa: The Life of a Saint, p 223-224
***
My first encounter with Shree Maa and Swamiji was last month, when my Gita study class was invited to visit the Devi Mandir. Before I returned from the Mandir, I "signed on" to complete the Peace Sankalpa, and nothing has been the same since. Once home, I started my recitations, sometimes silently and sometimes aloud. After a week or so, my 17 year old son started to imitate me, "only he was saying sarvaa bgjklfda plkdj mdnkjm." In other words, he sounded out the first word and then just mumbled the rest. So I asked him if he wanted to learn the mantra, to which he responded enthusiastically -- yes. He memorized it, and the English translation, in less than 5 minutes. He was quickly able to recite it quite fast and clear.
This might not seem that remarkable, however, my son is autistic. He is fairly high functioning, and has pretty good language skills, but I can assure you there is no way that I can get him to recite anything that he doesn't want to. I know, because I have tried!! He now says the mantra every morning upon rising, and it is the last thing he says as he falls asleep at night. I have suggested that he pay attention, and if he hears it in his head, to let it come through naturally. I also suggested that, if he is moved to do so, he can say it before his meals. If this continues to grow, I am going to get him a hand counter so he can keep track of how many he says each day. That is something I think he might like.
Last month, Swamiji blessed him with the gift of a rudraksha bead for healing, which he happily (and seriously) wears around his neck all the time. He never stops talking about Maa. He listens to her sing, he wants to cook the recipes from her cookbook, sometimes he will sit next to me at the computer for the beginning of the Gita classes, and he keeps their picture in his room. Something magical is happening in my home, and to my son.
Last night, in Gita class, Swamiji answered my question about "those with small intelligence" and their ability to reach God. (Ch.7, v.23). He said that those with limited mental capacity often have a pureness about them that allows them to see/know things more easily than the rest of us, due in part, to not having the same distractions the rest of us deal with every day. And yes, they can reach God. (This is my feeble paraphrasing, forgive me for not properly quoting Swamiji).
My son is a very pure spirit, only seeing the good in others, assuming everyone loves him as much as he loves everyone, and now, he has connected to the loving energy of Maa. He has actually said to me, "Maa can see my soul all the way from California. I know she loves me." He is so blessed. I am so blessed. We are all so blessed. Jai Maa!
Wendy
***
Namaste,
Thanks for your prayer to MAA for my welfare. By her grace I have got a new job today. This speaks that prayer has a tremendous power.
I am indebted to the Divine Mother and the whole Devi Mandir Family for the kind action.
Regards,
Dinesh
***
Dear Devi Mandir Family,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your Prayers and Kindness. My surgery results show NO malignancy.
Jai Maa!
Jai Maa's Children!
Nageshwari
***
Thank you for your prayers.Your kindness in praying for me and my family is a great blessing. Your generosity in thought and deed is a a great gift.
Sushma
***
Shree Maa is a pure example of Truth in the Kali Age.
Ramnath Aghori Baba, 217 years old, spoken before a large gathering of disciples in 1976
***
This Devi Mandir is definitely a Rishi's ashram, and I can tell that you, Swami Satyananda and Shree Maa, that you were both Rishis in your previous lives. Your Sanskrit pronunciation is impeccable and your explanations are full of wisdom. Your books are an extremely valuable contribution to Sanskrit literature and your devotion is unswerving. You maintain the highest standards of Hindu culture in the tradition of the Vedic Rishis, and your pujas and homas are in exact accordance with the descriptions of the scriptures.
Napeshwara is without a doubt the thirteenth Jyotir Lingam, and I give my blessings that any devotee who comes here to Napeshwar Dham will receive the darshan of Lord Shiva and the blessings of fulfillment of their every desire. They will have wealth, longevity, good health, peace and liberation. They will be blessed with spiritual knowledge and Godliness and satisfaction all the days of their lives.
I bless you that this Devi Mandir and Napeshwara Dham will become a place of spiritual pilgrimage for all the western countries, and that devotees from around the world will come here to have darshan of the Lord. The work that you, Swami Satyananda and Shree Maa, are performing will be remembered by history as a tremendous benefit not only to Hindu culture, but also to all of mankind.
Swami Purnananda Giri, Niranjaniya Akara Mahant, Moksha Dham, Jageshwar, Uttaranchal, India, October 24, 2001, Ashwin Mase Shukla Pakshe Navamam Tithau
***
I recently received a recording of Swami Satyananda's Rudrashtadyayi, and took it to the Bakreswar Temple of Lord Shiva where this text is recited daily by the priests of the temple. I am also a priest of the temple, following in my family's tradition since over 100 generations. I was born in a Brahmin family, and completed a Master's Degree in Sanskrit as well as in Education. In addition to being a priest of this temple, I am employed by the Government of India as a District Inspector of Education.
I played this recording for the other priests in the temple, and now we listen to it daily and chant along with the text. This recording is not regional chanting, particular to any special language group or dialect. It is the actual recording of a Rishi reciting the Vedic texts. Just by listening to this recording the meanings of the text become clear. In fact, it is so accurate that we are able to translate most of the meanings just by listening to the recording. We also greatly appreciate Swamiji's translations in Bengali and English.
Sushil Choudhury, 4/25/2002
***
I know we are not supposed to use up posts with just a simple "Thank you," but I must state out loud for at least the group to hear (though I know you all know this already anyway) how incredibly and continually impressed I am with Swamiji and his answers. He is an absolute treasure of knowledge, very rare even amongst all the Indian Sadhus I have encountered -- which have been more than a few. His answers are never more verbose than they need to be and they show such a seat of authority and great clarity.
I am very thankful for all your help Swamiji and for this group. I stay silent often but it is a daily part of my life and a great resource for me in my own development of wisdom and furtherance of Bhakti.
Eternal Pranams,
Surya
***
I second your comments Surya. I am amazed when I think about the positive impact that these two people have had on my path and continued spiritual growth. Swamiji is a rare treasure.
SIVA/SHAKTI = SWAMIJI/SHREEMAA. Thank you both.
Eric Jensen
***
Namaste,
My heart always bursts to capacity when someone recognizes our beautiful Swamiji's Spiritual Prowess! His Wisdom is as vast as the Cosmic Sea. We are so very blessed not only to have Him so generously sharing His Wisdom with us through His books, Satsangs, and this Forum, but also to have Him on this planet at this time. I also have had the grace to experience the Divine Presence of many Sadhus in this life,[here and in India], but Swamiji's generosity and enthusiasm of Spirit is something very rare and precious. I bow to Him with all my heart! Thank you for your very sweet acknowledgement and thanks to our dear Swamiji!
Jai Chandi Shree Maa! Jai Shiva Swamiji! [The Jewels of Napa] Jai Thakur Ramakrishna Deva!
Your sister,
Muktimaa
***
The discussion on the Devi Mandir Yahoo Group has been useful on so many levels! I can see much time and thought went into the asking and the answering of these questions, and I wish to express my gratitude.
Jai MAA!
Leela
***
Jai Maa Durga!
I am writing this e-mail to thank you. I am a 35-year old Hindu Brahmin born and bred in England. Through your books and videos I have learned a tremendous amount about the worship of our mutual Ishta Devata - Maa Bhagavati. Therefore in the tradition of Hinduism, you are my Guru and I am paying you my respects.
A sahasra thanks to you once again.
Your disciple,
Vinay
***
Dear Shree Maa,
I have been thinking of you often. You are so fully established in the transcendent that you never leave the feet of the Supreme no matter what occurs around you. You don't "do" service; you "are" service - every thought and act of yours benefits others. I feel so small and selfish and ignorant before you, truly ashamed of how worldly I still am before your unwavering spiritual focus.
Maa, if it weren't for people like Swami and you, there would be nothing but delusion and despair. Your state is the only sure evidence we have of transcendent grace and an end to suffering. I have so often wished I could move with you in meditation and experience what you experience. I salute you again and again!
With deepest reverence,
Linda Johnsen
***
Namaste to All,
My name is Devi Spring, and I am a Universalist Shakta bhakta from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I find that the teachings of Shree Maa and Swami Satyananda Saraswati of the Devi Mandir are a great inspiration to me, as is the life and gospel of Sri Ramakrishna, which is what brings me to this group!
Devi
***
Dear Swamiji,
I think "Tattva Jnana" is the best thing you've ever done. It's absolutely fabulous. How I wish I had had this in front of me when I was working on some of my previous books!
You have a way of wording definitions that throws completely new light on a subject. I found my understanding (such as it is) of one subject after another expanding amazingly. Even topics I'd heard explained a hundred times before suddenly resonated with whole new depths of meaning. I took copious notes on virtually every page.
Every tradition explains philosophical terms somewhat differently, and the different ways you explained this matter was fascinating and also made sense.
I'll be highly recommending your "Tattva Jnana" to friends of mine who're struggling to understand Sanskrit philosophical terminology.
Wishing you the very best,
Linda Johnsen
***
Dear Swamiji,
My medical tests came back with a good result: I am healthy. Thank you for your prayers and praise be to Lord Ganesh.
Shaktiprasad
***
Dear Swamiji,
The temple building you and Shree Maa have enlivened is full of light and much joy. It carries Mother Divine's energy on a very high level. It is your devotion that has brought this about.
I'm very pleased also to hear that you are teaching and sharing the Rudra hymns. I like your book very much - it was an excellent idea to use the Shukla Yajur Veda Rudra hymns. You did a perfect job in creating a very "user friendly" text with clear Sanskrit and transliteration and absolutely beautiful meanings.
In fact, everything you and Shree Maa have produced over the years has been very helpful, beautifully done and inspiring. So I wish you and Shree Maa many continuing blessings and send you both much love.
Henry Herzberger
***
Videos
Sundari recounts receiving the ultimate blessing from Shree Maa. Click on the image to hear and watch her story!
Deepa experienced the depth of Shree Maa's love. Click on the image to hear and watch her story!
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Webcam
Dearest Swamiji,
Thanks so much for the webcam - what an incredible gift, a dream come true! I am so utterly delighted to be able to hear your voice, to be close in another way with Shree Maa and You! To have this Webcam, now, is so vital for me, since I can't be there physically. To be with you & Maa, ah what a gift!
Julia Doughty
***
Dear Family,
Ramakrishna Pramahamsa says,
"If you see an incarnation of the divine, then you have seen the divine if you look at a human that is intoxicated with love for God, you will know for certain that this individual has become an incarnation of God.
I deeply thank all devotees who work to make this Web Cam possible so that we can see Maa and Swamiji too! Pranans to you dear devotees! Jai Maa, Jai Swamiji! I bow to your sacred Lotus feet Dear Maa and Swamiji! Please take our hands and show us the way to home!
Jai Maa! Jai Swamiji! Jai Dear Family!
I bow to you with love,
Kalachandra
***
Dear All,
I have attended last two of Swamiji's classes on Cosmic Puja and I can only say, "What a privilege!" I feel transported in time to the ancient Vedic times where you sat at the foot of a rishi and learned from Him. In this day and time it is a privilege and I cannot thank Swamiji and everybody enough for hosting these classes.
Ruchi
***
Dear Family,
I am thoroughly enjoying Swamiji's class on Cosmic Puja. It is such fun to be home at 6.30 pm and tune in to the broadcasts, like watching the latest episode of a favorite show on TV. Even better to be able to ask Swamiji questions real time (email/IM the yahoo id MandirClass@yahoo.com
Nanda
***
Dear Family,
Swamiji's live online puja classes are Divine Mother's boon to the planet. It is not only the knowledge and devotion that we can imbibe from Swamiji's teachings; we also get divine bhava in real time. Maa and Swamiji's presence come through every class and broadcast to bless and protect us wherever we are tuning in.
I respectfully bow down to all who make this possible. Jai Maa, Jai Swamiji, Jai devotees!
With love, Kumari
***
Dear Family,
I just watched the whole Saturday program and its as close to being there as possible. My respectful pranam to Shree Maa and to You for projecting the force of your bhava across the world. Pranams!
Manohar Merani
***
Respected Swamiji,
I was able to have Darshan of You and Shree Maa on the Webcam. It was so amazing that I could see it all live!! The feeling is hard to describe. Thank you Swamiji for making it available to all corners of the world.
Neelima Agrawal
***
Dear Swamiji,
Everything works fine, and I am enjoying the webcasts.
Govind
***
Dear Swamiji
I would love to visit the Devi Mandir, but with this move happening by the end of the month I don't see me there in person anytime soon. So the Webcam is such a wonderful gift. I love to tune in and sit and chant. I am totally enjoying the Devi Mandir tour. Jai Mahadev Jai!
Yogini
***
From our Classes
All obeisances to you dear Guruji!
Swamiji, I have just finished watching one of your classes on the Chandi Path and I am so blessed. Your teachings are so full of Divine wisdom and are a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom. I was truly mesmerized by the greatness of your teaching. I had other things I had to do, but I could not tear myself away from your Chandi Class.
Of course, I could have just stopped it and went back to it later, but you had me so interested and inspired I just could NOT do that! THANK-YOU Swamiji for all the teaching you do for the benefit of all people. Your teaching is so inspiring it mesmerizes me! I bow before your Divine Lotus feet dear Guruji and I am always thanking you for all that you do for me and for everyone. JAI GURU! GURU MAHAAN!
With love and devotion,
Kurt Dornauer
***
Namaste All,
I have been watching the webcasts for the last 3 days and am completely entranced. I can't wait for the broadcasts to start each day and hover over my laptop until the time. I tape it and the go over it with the book. Keep it coming.
Love and Light
Brindavanshakti, New Zealand
***
All glories to you dear Guruji!
Swamiji, tonight I was so blessed to watch one of your classes on the Chandi Path and I cannot thank you enough for making these classes available via the internet. Your instruction contained so much deep wisdom that I was mesmerized! I was filled with great JOY upon hearing your Divine wisdom, expounding the teachings of the Chandi Path so beautifully.
Your classes are a TREASURE-TROVE of wonderful Divine knowledge! I am very excited about watching them regularly and reaping the pearls of Divine wisdom and striving to apply them to my every day life. TRULY I am unspeakably blessed to have you as my Guru and I lovingly bow before your lotus feet and thank you again and again with all sincerity. *JAI GURUJI!* *JAI MAA!*
With love and devotion,
Kurt Dornauer
***
Namaste Everyone,
As I am looking forward to the last Shiva Puja class tonight, I am also feeling sad to think that the classes are ending SO SOON already again.
I am confident that I speak for all of us geographically distant devotees, that coming together in satsang around Swamiji’s inspired teaching is such a divine pleasure and privilege. It fills our days with meaning and joy, not to mention the sweet connection to the rest of the Devi Mandir family.
I am wondering if we could bind Swamiji in the net of our love and our commitment to embody the teachings to the best of our ability, and then he would just HAVE to realize that he can’t get rid of us that easily, and will HAVE to continue to feed us hungry babies.
love,
Usha, Canada
***
I wouldn't miss your class for anything in the world!!!!
You are the most divinely humane Swamiji I have ever met. It is a privilege attending your class.
Manjushri
***
Till now, I have never been able to connect with the Bhuta Shudhi practice. Even when I read it in the Advanced Shiva Puja book, it seemed too technical and remote. After watching and participating with Swamiji as he did it I could feel myself on the threshold of this practice as a living experience. I was happy enough that these things were published in a book in a manner that encouraged people to actually do them, but being taught them and hearing them from the lips of a realized soul and watching them being done by someone for whom this is an attainment and a realization elevates the understanding a thousand-fold.
I can now imagine myself sitting down and going through this whole puja and yagna and finding it, instead of tedious and boring because of my small knowledge, inspiring and illuminating. Jai Shree Maa! Jai Swamiji!
With Love,
Kumari
***
Dear Swamiji
Our Pranams to you. We want tell you how much we look forward to the evenings at 6.30 pm gathering around the fire at the Mandir even though we are located many many miles away. The webcam has been such a blessing and has brought You into our homes every day. The classes and the privilege to clarify our doubts online are such wonderful blessings that you have bestowed upon us. Thank you for nourishing us. You are aptly named the "Bliss of Truth" because communion with You is our Satsanga. We look forward to more and more Satsanga with you both online and in person.
Love from Nanda and Online Class Participants
***
Thank you Swamiji, for this absolutely wonderful, awesome class, filled with so much information, from the basics to the sublime.
Wendy, New Jersey
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Swamiji, Pranams to Shiva as you're helping us. Your books and discourses are a HUGE blessing and help.
Janitri, Virginia
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Pranams and thank you - thank you - thank you!!
Usha, Canada
***
Thank you, Swamiji, for the knowledge that you have given us. We are privileged and blessed to learn these scriptures from you.
Kumari, Vallejo
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Great class Swamiji! Pranams.
Rolf, Mountain View
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Namaste Swamiji,
I am so thrilled to be emailing you at this time. I am again blessed to be doing Ganga sadhana. I have been in India for 5 months and at the ashram for 3. This time I brought with me your Devi Gita, Hanuman Puja, Chandi Path and I have the Lalita Trishati Stotram. I just purchased the Sundar Kanda here.
I put a number of your video classes on my mp3 player - it has been such a blessing for me. Last night I completed the Lalita Trishati Stotram video. I have loved it since you taught it to us at Dave and Liz’s house in Colorado. From the 181-st name you began making offerings to the fire. I loved it. It was as though I was sitting across from you at the havan kund. I began pulling offerings out of my heart and putting them in the fire along with you. It was fantastic.
There is so much in the Hanuman Puja. I am so glad I brought it. I have been practicing the mantras.
Thank you again Swamiji. All of your efforts have helped me a great deal in my bhakti. Actually Devi Mandir is so helpful for me in my specific practices. It is amazing how you are able to keep up such a high level of energy and inspiration, it is infectious and I need that.
Mark Rosen, Banks of Ganga, India
***
Namaste Swamiji,
Thank you so very very much for broadcasting these teachings. I used to come for all the darshans when you and Shree Maa traveled to Chicago years ago. It was these darshans that first opened my heart and caused me to weep. These bliss tears just keep on falling. :) A beautiful blessing. It was nice seeing you live again. Beautiful teachings. Thank you so very much.
Jai Ma!
Kalyani
***
I just finished attending an on-line class by Swamiji on the Devi Gita, a text that gives practical guidelines for yogic practice, and I want to try to convey how valuable the class was to me. I was delighted with the class! I missed the first half of it, but once I tuned in I realized I could not afford to miss a single session, and it was surprisingly easy to re-organize my schedule to make that possible! Hearing the explanations of the Devi Gita helped me so much.
Swamiji's teachings are of exquisite quality and usefulness. No information is held back, and the knowledge is conveyed with such genuine inspiration and such penetrating clarity that one can not help falling in love with yoga all over again during each session. If I can manage to convey even a few morsels of what I have learned from these classes to my students here in New Zealand, they will be well nourished and well guided indeed.
I have trained with some of the brightest lights in the Sanatana Dharma tradition. Among my teachers are Hart DeFouw, Robert Svoboda, Vasant Lad, and Professor Ram Karan Sharma. I have been studying and working in the Ayurveda, Sanskrit, and yoga field for over 12 years now, and have not yet come across such a clearly explained and refined system of yogic
practice as that taught by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.
Barbara Cook, Tauranga, New Zealand
***
Thank you for giving me the privilege to learn from you. I am continually in awe of the great knowledge, the sincerity, the enthusiasm, the consistency, and above all, the loving devotion that you bring to each class. Your words have changed my life.
Sarita, Suneel, Anika, and I send you all our love and best wishes on this Father's day and always.
Rolf, Mountain View
***
Swamiji is a living example of all that is glorious in the Universe — all the beauty, all the tenderness, all the selflessness, all the generosity, and abundance of spirit. Every class that He teaches is an opportunity to absorb this glory. For this, I am ever and always appreciative.
Love, joy, appreciation,
Karen, Colorado
***
Pranams Swamiji! I wish to express how privileged I feel to be a part of the Devi Mandir. My life revolves around your daily scripture classes, putting into practice what I am learning to chant, and continuing my love affair with the divine. My very soul thanks you for this blessing! I bow to you!!!
Jai Maa! Jai Thakur!
Usha
***
I can't even say how much you have taught me. Oh but you can! How can I reward you? Maybe with doves and eagles as your friend or a big feast! Happy Fathers Day! Hrinnnnnnngggggggg!
Sincerely,
Angel, Atlanta
***
Thank you Beloved Swamiji for all your teachings. These classes are priceless. Your enthusiasm and love for the subject permeates every word. You are like the ghee to our fire of love for Mom. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you for doing this and for all the service during class. You are always asking the questions in such a gentle and kind voice. Thank you.
Parvati, Sacramento
***
Devi Gita class has taught me so much Swamiji. Outlining it with meditation has shone a light into my heart showing me even more clearing that we are one. Now meditating before leaving the bed has been added to my morning joys. The Bhuta Suddhi of Advanced Siva Puja will be added to my puja because you have made me feel comfortable with it in class. Devi Gita will be added to my practice when class is complete because of your dedication to present it so well. You have given me a hunger to study it further and recite it often. You have shown me the Gems it holds and shares.
THANK YOU SWAMI FOR BEING YOU
FOR TEACHING US
FOR ANSWERING OUR QUESTIONS
FOR BEING THERE FOR US
Love and Devotion,
Devi
Hari Om Swamiji,
I have been listening to your online classes on Bhagavad Gita. Your classes are great. It has helped me understand some things in life.
Mangalam Sankupellay
***
From our Book Buyers
Date: 2/23/2010: I am very grateful for the book, as well as the delightful CD. It is very much welcomed. Thank you very much.
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Date: 11/28/09: Devi Mandir is such an excellent resource for dharmic materials. I highly encourage ordering from them and supporting the ongoing work Satyananda Saraswati & Sri Ma.
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Date: 9/5/09: I have to say the service I received was the best I have had. An additional CD was included for free, along with a nice personal note from the seller. I only wish I could do all my business with people like these.
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Humble Greetings!
I ordered and received the Rudrashatdhyayi today and what a surprise to receive the Devi Gita as well!!! I would also like to thank you for your kind gift of the Sahib Sadhu with my purchase of the Chandi Path. My heart felt thanks to you! Hopefully someday I will be worthy of Sree Maa & Swamiji's kind grace & discipleship.
Pranaam & Thank you,
Anita Narayan
***
Dear Swamiji,
Yesterday i received the CD of the Kali Sahasranam. I was not prepared for how beautiful Shree Maa’s delivery of Mother’s Thousand Names would be. A peaceful joy swept over me as i realized what a spiritual jewel i was listening to. My deepest gratitude to you for another devotional centerpiece. I am looking forward to sharing and practicing with other seekers in my area.
Also, I wish to thank you for the gift of Sahib Sadhu. Already in your story, I see spiritual mastery that never lost sight of humility. It is an inspiration to me and i hope to meet you one day.
With Love,
Martin Levisen, Charleston, SC
***
Dear Swamiji,
I recently ordered a copy of the Chandi Path and received, along with it, a CD of you telling Sadhu stories. I wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying it. When I was small, I listened all the time to fairy tales on tape, with sound effects and music, just the way you tell the sadhu stories. Listening to stories like this is still one of my favorite things. And, not only are they enjoyable, but the lessons were much needed. Many thanks to you and Shree Maa.
With love and pranams,
Swamini Sri Lalitambika Devi
***
I have so much to thank you for in regards to the Guru Gita. First, not only is it a great honor to honor you by reciting it, but it is a practice that gives incredible blessings. Also, I wanted to point out that the copy of that book was sent to me FREE with an order I had placed with Devi Mandir. The good people of Devi Mandir ALWAYS have included a valuable gift with every order and for that I am so very grateful. I probably would never have ordered that book and that means I would not be reciting the Guru Gita! You and ALL the people of Devi Mandir are always giving and never taking - something to emulate indeed.
Kurt, Fort Collins
Date: 9/3/09 They included a free CD - thanks - A+++ seller Karl Rated by Buyer: Maria Fattig
Date: 7/20/09 Thank you very much for the attention and the gift. It was very important, and I felt the consideration you have with the custumers. I surely intend to do other businesses with the company. Rated by Buyer: Alba Krishna Topan Feldman
Date: 7/17/09 Very prompt, came with a free gift to boot. Would definitely do business with them again. Rated by Buyer: Nandakumar Varadaraju
Date: 7/9/09 The book is absolutely gorgeous, and the lovely CD of Shree Ma was above and beyond the call of retail. I have been trying to find a reasonable copy of Kali Puja for years. Recommended seller, a thousand times over. Jai Maa! Rated by Buyer: Heidi Blair
Date: 6/25/09 Excellent service. Thank you. Rated by Buyer: Max Stout
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Date: 6/7/09 Item arrived well before expected. Would order again!! Thank you!! A+++++++++++++++++++++++ Rated by Buyer: Karen Torrone
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In addition to the requested book, a small CD gift was added by the seller. Free of charge.
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Great packaging, fast shipping. Would recommend this seller.
Date: 12/3/2008 Rated by Buyer: Swati Desai
Item arrived very quickly in perfect condition. They even sent a wonderful extra item at no charge. I am 100% satisfied. Jai Ma
Date: 10/31/2008 Rated by Buyer: Gregory Lasher
The book arrived promptly in good condition!
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They shipped very fast and even included a free gift with my order. I love it!! I'd buy from them again in a heartbeat.
Date: 10/5/2008 Rated by Buyer: Anna Marino
GREAT SELLER! Fast shipment, item as described. Seller even included a free gift CD.
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The shipment arrived promptly and I even received an extra special promotion from Seller.
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Excellent book, really fast shipping - thanks!
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Just perfect. Very fast delivery, very good books and absolutely friendly people. Thank you very very much :-)
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"Excellent service and very quick."
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"The book was in excellent condition, and they even included a gift (that was relevant to the purchase). Very kind."
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"Thank you... Above and beyond any expectation I may have had."
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