Swami Jasraj Puriji's Work In India
Welcome Dear Friends and Family,
In the Indian tradition they have an ancient saying “Vasudeva kutumbhakam” – the whole world is one family. It is a truth that if realized would solve a lot of problems. I write openly to anyone who is interested to listen with what is, in my eyes not an appeal, but an invitation to join me in being part of the amazing development unfolding here in Rajasthan.
To introduce myself I have spent the last 14 or so years in Rajasthan, India, living in the Ashram of my Guruji, Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranand Puri Ji Maharaj, and trying to do something for the people of the local area. It is a beautiful life which I enjoy very much.
In 2001 we started a school for the local village children. The school started with 140 students and went up to 5th class. It was makeshift and bodgy but it fulfilled our aim which was to give the children a better education than they get in the village.
Sakam Karma and Nishkam Karma
You have to pay back all Karmas in this life or in future lives, good or bad. It could be good Karma, but if it is selfish it is a chain that binds you. Nishkam Karma also still binds you to the Karmic law. It doesn't matter if the chain is made of iron or gold, it binds you in same way. Good and bad, both Karmas will bind you, put you into bondage. Of course negative Karma is harder, and good Karmas are softer.
Nishkam Karma means free or without desire. Karma comes from the root word “kama” which means desires. Karma comes from the root word "kriya" which means to do. In the act of Nishkam Karma you have no selfish expectation, you are only giving. Give with love, devotion and happiness. What should we give? Whatever you can! But observe your limitations, don’t overdo it!
Karma Yoga and the Environment
This artcile is from http://jadanschool.blogspot.com/ - the blog of Swami Jasraj who manages the school at the largest Yoga in Daily Life ashram in India. Near the village of Jadan, this ashram is home to many of the humanitarian initatives undertaken by Yoga in Daily Life.
It tells the story of Jambaji who was born in 1451 and the effect he had on the environment and people around him - an effect that can still be seen today!
Some of the local wildlife. Special to watch especially early in the morning. This is about 20km from our ashram. One of the boys from school has put together some history about the blackbuck pictured and the trees which are in the scenes. Environmentalists from a different era with a tradition that continues.
