News #16: Czech Disciples of Sri Chinmoy Celebrate International Day of Happiness with 27,000 Special Bookmarks

To honor the U.N. International Day of Happiness, Sri Chinmoy’s disciples in the Czech Republic have printed 27,000 special-edition bookmarks featuring his uplifting poems on happiness! These beautifully designed bookmarks are being shared far and wide to inspire people.  

Here’s how they’re reaching the world:

  • 16,500 bookmarks are being distributed at well-known Czech bookstores, given to customers at checkout.  
  • 6,000 bookmarks are being shared through businesses such as Madal Bal, Everest Ayurveda, Zdravy den, Pranaya, and Antarik.  
  • The remaining bookmarks are finding their way to people at book fairs, meditation classes, and street events—spreading joy everywhere!  

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people appreciating these small yet powerful reminders of happiness. What a beautiful way to share inspiration! 

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #268: Gayatri Mantra – Performed by Arthada & Friends

This recording of the Gayatri Mantra set to music by Sri Chinmoy, is arranged and performed by the music ensemble Arthada & Friends and guest singers from the Vienna and Budapest Sri Chinmoy Centres.

Sri Chinmoy’s comments on the ancient Gayatri Mantra:

Gayatri
The sacred mantra from the Rig Veda addressed to the sun.
If the seeker soulfully recites the Gayatri mantra in the morning and the evening, illumination is bound to take place in the seeker’s confusion-mind infinitely sooner than he would ever expect.

I would be very happy if you could learn the tune that I have set to the Gayatri Mantra. If you can sing it most soulfully, it will be as good as repeating the mantra one hundred times. This is the difference between reciting and singing. While we are singing, our entire being is elevated and transported into the highest plane of consciousness. When we recite something soulfully, sometimes we may get dynamic power; sometimes we may get vital power, uncontrolled vital power. But if we sing a song soulfully, immediately psychic power comes. Psychic power comes to the fore and makes us swim in the sea of Light and Delight. If we are singing soulfully, this is more important than to be technically correct. When I sing, many times I make mistakes. But God does not care about my technique. He cares for my soulful qualities. So when you learn the Gayatri Mantra, please do not worry that you cannot sing it like a professional singer. As long as it comes from your heart, God will be really pleased.

Om bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ
tát savitúr váreṇyaṃ
bhárgo devásya dhīmahi
dhíyo yó naḥ prachodáyāt

Translation: 
We meditate on the adorable glory of the effulgent sun, the Creator. May He illumine and guide our mind and intellect.

The Gayatri Mantra is the most hallowed mantra of the Vedas. It is the mother of all the mantras. Mantra means incantation. A mantra can be a one-syllable word or a few words, a sentence or a few sentences. The Gayatri Mantra can offer to the sincere seeker the light of the Infinite, the delight of the Eternal and the life of the Immortal.

A seeker of the infinite Truth must meditate on the Gayatri Mantra. The result that he will get is incalculable.

Subtle is the path of Moksha — Liberation. Hard is the path of liberation. Long is the path of liberation. But a genuine seeker can and does reach the end solely by meditating on the Gayatri. When one is freed from the fetters of ignorance, one grows into the supernal glory of the Transcendental Self. Liberation can be achieved, must be achieved, while the seeker’s soul is in the body. To fail to realise God on earth is to swim in the sea of ignorance with two more swimmers: ignorant birth and shameless death. Liberation attained, the bonds of grief, destroyed. If not, like the Buddha we have to proclaim, “This fleeting world is the abode of sorrow.

The Gayatri is the divine magnetic needle. The magnetic needle points to the north; hence the ship does not lose its direction. The Gayatri always points to the transcendental height of the Supreme; hence the seeker does not miss his Goal: Existence, Consciousness, Bliss.

Sources:
Sri Chinmoy, The core of India’s Light, part 3, Agni Press, 1992
Sri Chinmoy, Sri Chinmoy speaks, part 6, Agni Press, 1976
Sri Chinmoy, AUM — Vol. 7, No.12, July 27, 1972, AUM Centre Press, 1972

For more information visit the official website: https://www.srichinmoylibrary.com/
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #267: The Flood Is Always Coming – The Challenge Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Episode.08

In this episode, Abhinabha and Vajin explore the concept of challenges in life, discussing their importance for personal growth and spiritual progress. They delve into the nature of challenges, how they shape character, and the necessity of acceptance and patience in overcoming them. The conversation emphasizes that challenges are relative and personal and that facing them can lead to deeper self-discovery and resilience. The hosts also highlight the significance of peace of mind and acceptance as foundational qualities in navigating life’s difficulties. They explore the concept of patience as an active process rather than a passive waiting game. They discuss how patience can help navigate challenges, emphasizing the importance of being present and accepting the current moment. Vajin shares a personal story from his travels in Kashmir, illustrating the lessons learned from adversity and the power of maintaining calmness in difficult situations. The discussion highlights the transformative nature of experiences that test our patience and resilience, ultimately revealing deeper insights about ourselves. Takeaways:

  • Challenges are essential for personal growth and character development.
  • Life begins and ends with challenges, marking significant transitions.
  • Acceptance is the first step in dealing with challenges.
  • Peace of mind helps in facing challenges effectively.
  • Patience is a valuable quality often misunderstood in modern society.
  • Challenges are relative and personal; what is challenging for one may not be for another.
  • Facing challenges can lead to a deeper appreciation of life and its beauty.
  • We need to engineer challenges in our lives to avoid becoming complacent.
  • The universe trusts us to handle the challenges we face.
  • Experiencing darkness can enhance our understanding of light and joy.
  • Patience is an active process, not just waiting.
  • Impatience often leads to trying to force outcomes.
  • The goals we pursue want us to achieve them.
  • Being present allows for better decision-making.
  • Acceptance is key to overcoming difficulties.
  • The universe is supportive of our journeys.
  • Difficult experiences can reveal our true character.
  • Maintaining calmness in adversity is crucial.
  • Every challenge can lead to personal growth.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Week 202: I Love Singing

Songs:

– God’s Beauty 1
– God’s Beauty 2
– God’s Beauty 3
– God’s Beauty 4

Enjoy singing along with the audio recordings. These songs are composed by Sri Chinmoy and performed by his disciple Purnakama. Please click the links below to listen to or download the audio and song scores:

 

Lyrics:


1. God’s Beauty 1

Peace:
God’s Beauty in His Oneness-Home.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘A Heart of Peace’ songbook


2. God’s Beauty 2

Peace:
God’s Beauty in His Oneness-Home.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘A Heart of Peace’ songbook


3. God’s Beauty 3

Peace:
God’s Beauty in His Oneness-Home.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘A Heart of Peace’ songbook


4. God’s Beauty 4

Peace:
God’s Beauty in His Oneness-Home.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘A Heart of Peace’ songbook


For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre

News #15 – Blue Flower Group Concert in Huehuetenango, Guatemala

On March 4, the Blue Flower Group performed in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Their beautiful music filled the air, creating a memorable experience for the audience.

A local influencer with 21,000+ followers live-streamed the concert, and over 1,600 people watched online.

Watch the full concert here: Video Link

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

News #14: Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race – Prospect Park, Brooklyn

On March 9, nearly 300 runners gathered in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, to take on the 5K & 7-Mile races. Despite the chilly weather, the sun was shining, and the energy was high as participants pushed through the course with determination and enthusiasm.

The event brought together runners of all levels, from seasoned athletes to those looking to challenge themselves in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere. The scenic route through the park made for a memorable race, and the cheers from spectators added to the excitement.

Here are the links into

A big congratulations to all the runners who braved the cold and gave their best effort! Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next race.

For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Week 201: I Love Singing

Songs:

– Tomar Kotha Balte Giye Tomai Chhoto Kari
– When I Speak About You
– Akuti Jibane Akuti Marane
– Aspiration in Life

Enjoy singing along with the audio recordings. These songs are composed by Sri Chinmoy and performed by his disciple Purnakama. Please click the links below to listen to or download the audio and song scores:

 

Lyrics:


1. Tomar Kotha Balte Giye Tomai Chhoto Kari

Tomar kotha balte giye
Tomai chhoto kari

Translation:

When I speak about You,
I always underestimate You.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


2. When I Speak About You

When I speak about You,
I always underestimate You.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


3. Akuti Jibane Akuti Marane

Akuti jibane
Akuti marane
Akuti akuti akuti

Translation:

Aspiration in life,
Aspiration in death,
Aspiration, aspiration, aspiration.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook


4. Aspiration in Life

Aspiration in life,
Aspiration in death,
Aspiration, aspiration, aspiration.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘Song-Flowers, Part 2’ songbook



For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre

Video #266: On Gotwits and Sarcophagi – The Travel Episode | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.07

In this conversation, Vajin shares his transformative experiences during his travels to Egypt and India, focusing on the profound connections he made with ancient sites, the power of meditation, and the spiritual lessons learned through personal encounters. He emphasizes the importance of being present, the weight of the heart in moral decisions, and the ability to connect with others through love and awareness. The discussion also touches on the significance of loss and how it can lead to deeper insights and growth. 

Takeaways:

  • Vajin felt a strong calling to visit the pyramids in Egypt, which he discovered was geographically significant on his journey.
  • Meditation at the pyramids allowed Vajin to connect deeply with the ancient site and its mysteries.
  • The Egyptian belief in the heart’s weight during judgment reflects a timeless moral lesson about living a light-hearted life.
  • Experiencing art in museums can create a sense of time travel, connecting us with the creators of the past.
  • Being fully present in the moment can unlock profound experiences and insights.
  • Spiritual connections can occur in everyday interactions, revealing deeper truths about ourselves and others.
  • Loss can lead to unexpected blessings and insights about our attachments to material possessions.
  • Every situation in life has a unique solution that can lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
  • The interconnectedness of all lives creates a tapestry of experiences that shape our journeys.
  • Embracing small losses throughout life can prepare us for the ultimate transition of death.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org

Video #265: Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race – Past and Present

This video takes you on a journey through the world’s longest certified footrace, the Sri Chinmoy 3100 Mile Self-Transcendence Race. Featuring rare footage from 2006 and 2007, when Sri Chinmoy personally visited the race, as well as highlights from the 2024 edition, it captures the spirit of endurance, perseverance, and self-transcendence.

With interviews, race moments, and inspiring music, this video offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of this extraordinary event.

  • Video Footage by: Tejvan (2024), Utpal (Suprabha interview), Mridanga (2006/2007)
  • Photos by: Pulak, Maral, Dhanu, Piyasi & Sri Chinmoy Centre Galleries
  • Music by: Parichayaka

To find out more, visit the official website: www.3100.srichinmoyraces.org. 

For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #264: The Progress-Based Lifestyle | The Acceptance of Life Podcast, Ep.06

In this episode, Abhinabha and Vajin explore the profound differences between success and progress, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from inner growth rather than external achievements. They discuss cultural perceptions of success, the illusion of security it provides, and the importance of embracing uncertainty. Personal anecdotes highlight resilience in the face of loss and the valuable lessons learned from failure. The conversation also touches on the significance of competition, the philosophy of Gaman – the Japanese notion to endure suffering with dignity – and the importance of aligning your values with your pursuits. They explore the themes of competition, community, and personal growth through the lens of running and life experiences. They discuss how competition can be a source of motivation and self-improvement, the importance of self-compassion, and the need to see the divine in oneself and others. The conversation also delves into the concept of the Gen-Z term ‘sigma male’ as a new paradigm of success, emphasizing authenticity over traditional measures of achievement. Practical steps for living a progress-based life are outlined, including the power of gratitude and the importance of trusting one’s intuition.

Takeaways:

  • Success is often a static goal, while progress is a dynamic journey.  
  • Cultural narratives shape our understanding of success and happiness.  
  • True security cannot be found in material wealth or fame.  
  • Experiencing loss can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.  
  • Failure provides valuable feedback for future success.  
  • Embracing uncertainty is essential for a fulfilling life.  
  • The journey of self-discovery is more important than the destination.  
  • Inner values should guide our pursuits, not societal expectations.  
  • Competition can be a tool for personal growth rather than ego fulfillment.  
  • Practicing Gaman helps endure challenges with dignity and grace. 
  • Competition can motivate us to bring out our best.  
  • Running teaches us about community and shared challenges.  
  • Life is fundamentally a cooperative endeavor.  
  • Self-compassion is crucial for personal growth.  
  • Seeing the divine in ourselves fosters self-respect.  
  • Gratitude shifts our focus from lack to abundance.  
  • Intuition is the voice of our higher self.  
  • Living authentically leads to deeper connections.  
  • We often treat ourselves worse than we treat others.  
  • Choosing a friendly universe fosters a positive mindset.

To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org