His Holiness Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Sri Swami Maheshwarananda Puri of Panchayati Maha Nirvani Akhara, affectionately known as Swamiji, is the disciple and successor of Hindu Dharmsamrat Paramhans Sri Swami Madhavananda.

Since 1970 he has lived and worked in Europe and through his long-lasting activities in the West, Swamiji has become familiar with the way of life and the many problems people face in the modern world, and the psycho-somatic consequence of a detrimental lifestyle, stress, fear and mental illness.

He developed a comprehensive master system called "Yoga in Daily Life", based on the authentic original tradition of yoga, designing specifically to address the circumstance and needs of today's modern civilization. The system can be applied and practised by one and all, regardless of age, social status, nationality or faith. The fundamental aspects of Swamiji's teachings include:

• Physical, mental, social and spiritual health
• Respect for life
• Tolerance for all religions, cultures and nationalities
• Global peace
• Protection of human rights and values
• Protection of the environment and preservation of nature
• The realization of these fundamental principles of life leading humans to spiritual development, Self-Realization and Realization of God.

Swamiji's selfless service, his tireless care and love for all living beings, his lectures and satsangs, are a source of inspiration for thousands of people all over the world, who strive for spiritual solace and realisation.

In recognition of his humanitarian and spiritual merits Swamiji has received acolade, honours and awards from governments and organisations all over the world. On 10^th April, 1998, Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranandaji was inaugurated by the World Religious Parliament as "Sarva­bhaum Sanatan Dharma Jagadguru".

 

At the Maha Kumbha Mela in Haridwar, India (13 April, 1998) he was appointed Mahamandaleshwar of Maha Nirvani Akhara. 

In 2001 on the occasion of the Maha Kumbha Mela in Prayagraj (Allahabad), Swamiji was awarded with the highest spiritual title of Vishwaguru (Master of the Universe) in the presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shankaracharya Sri Swami Narendranandaji Sarasvati, by the Vidvat Samaj. 

 

1. Acknowledgements

Especially during the communist era, the spiritual and humanitarian work of His Holiness Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda provided great moral support to the people of the Eastern European countries, Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Yugoslavia. Due to his distinguished charitable, humanitarian, religious and environmental work, as well as his untiring efforts for tolerance and world peace, Swamiji has been acknowledged by social, medical, religious and political dignitaries in different parts of the world.

2009, Meeting with the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia & Hercegovina, Mr. Zeljko Komsic

2006, Presentation of the Chakra book to the President of India, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

2005, Meeting with President of Austria, Dr. Heinz Fischer

2004, Meeting with the Premier of South Australia, Hon. Mike Rann

2002, Awarded by President Stjepan Mesic with the Order of Croatian Danica with the image of Katarina Zrinska – the highest decoration of Croatia for humanitarian merits, for the decades of humanitarian and spiritual work done for the sake of entire humankind.

2001, Meeting with the Slovenian Prime Minister, Dr. Janez Drnovsek on the occasion of Swamiji’s World Peace Tour through Slovenia

2001, Meeting with Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Sri Ashok Gehlot, India

2000, Audience with the Slovenian President, Milan Kucan

1999, Audience with the Slovak President, Rudolf Schuster

1992, Audience with the Hungarian President, Arpad Göncz, who expresses his appreciation of Swamiji's social and spiritual work for the people of Hungary for more than fifteen years

 

2. Worldwide Inter-Religious Dialogues

Recognising the urgent need to promote and develop awareness of world peace, Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda has initiated worldwide Inter-religious Dialogues and World Peace Prayers with representatives of world religions and public figures, and takes an active part in international congresses and conferences.

2009, Convocation of Hindu Leaders, Melbourne, Australia

2004, Parliament of the World's Religions, Barcelona, Spain

2002, World Summit on Sustainable Development, Johannesburg, South Africa

Launch of the the Desert Rainwater Harvesting Initiative

2002, Participating in the Earth Dialogues in Lyon, France

2002, Meeting with Dalai Lama, Zagreb, Croatia

2002, Inter-religious Dialogue with Heads of various denominations (Judaism, Islam, Sikh, Hindu, Baha'i, Unitarian Church, Anglican Church, Roman Catholic Church and others), Adelaide, Australia

2001, Meeting with Heads of Christian Churches of South Australia in the Residence of the Catholic Archbishop Leonard Faulkner

2000, Millenium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders at the UN-Headquarters, New York, USA

 

3. World Peace Prayers

Worldwide international and inter-religious World Peace Prayers promote and develop awareness of world peace. The first public prayer took place in the Croatian city of Umag in September 2001, and afterwards in numerous cities in Austria, Spain, Germany, Slovenia, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, United Kingdom, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and India. Thousands and thousands of people were lighting candles which were floating on the sea surfaces, lakes and rivers of their countries with wishes and prayers for peace among all cultures, nations and religions.

2010, World Peace Prayer, Umag, Croatia

2004, World Peace Prayer, Ljubljana, Slovenia

2002, World Peace Prayer, Vienna, Austria

2001, 2010 World Peace Prayer, Umag, Croatia

 

4. Planting of Peace Trees 

The initiative of planting Peace Trees around the globe aims to remind people about their unity with nature and the environment. Swamiji has stated that Peace Trees will stand forever as a symbol for peace among religions, cultures and nations and all who are seeking comfort and relief shall find peace and harmony under their branches.

In Vienna, the ceremony for planting the Peace Tree in 2009 in Vienna's City Park was led by renowned environmentalist and Ambassador for Peace, His Holiness Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, and Vienna City Councillor for the Environment, Ulli Sima, with invited local officials and community leaders. Other locations most recently include:

2010, Planting of Peace Tree, Edinburg & Birmingham, U.K.

2009, Planting of Peace Tree, Szombathely, Hungary

2006, Planting of Peace Tree, Ljubljana, Slovenia

2005, Planting of Peace Tree, Zagreb, Croatia

 

5. Sri Swami Madhavananda World Peace Council 

The Sri Swami Madhavananda World Peace Council was founded by His Holiness Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda in commemoration of his beloved master, His Holiness Dharmsamrat Paramhans Sri Swami Madhavanandaji (1923-2003). The Council is established as a non-governmental, humanitarian and charitable society that pursues the betterment of humanity's welfare.

The Council is an instrument to advance unity and peace by disseminating the messages of Sri Swami Madhavanandaji “One in All and All in One” and Mahatma Gandhiji “Be the Change You Want to See”.

One of the Council’s central aims is to support international forums for dialogue between individuals, nations, cultures and religions on the topics of peace, ethics, spirituality, education, health, youth and environmental sustainability.

The primary objectives of the World Peace Council are:

1. Fostering of world peace, cultural exchange, dialogue between religions and nationalities, ethical education and healthy lifestyle.

2. Fostering of tolerance, respect and understanding among religions, cultures and nations; human rights as well as animal rights; protection of animals and the natural environment.

3. Fostering of the physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being of the individual and the general community by cultivating physical, mental, social and spiritual health through study, practice and teaching of the system "Yoga in Daily Life" as authored by the founder of the Sri Swami Madhavananda World Peace Council, Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, based on the authentic tradition of yoga and the teachings of his spiritual lineage.

 

5.1. World Peace Summits

The Council’s feature event is the “World Peace Summit”. The Summit is an annual event to raise global awareness, as well as spiritual, social and political resolve to secure lasting world peace and to demonstrate tolerance, respect and understanding by acknowledging ‘unity in diversity’. Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda Initiator of the World Peace Summits declares,

"Unity in Diversity is the aim of this Summit. We have learned many things and now we shall put them into practice. There should be more and more such conferences so that the consciousness will awaken to bring about Peace. We shall spread this message from door to door and from shore to shore. This Summit is a seed that must be grown into a large tree with branches of Spirituality, Peace, Justice, Understanding, Forgiveness, Tolerance and Love."   

World Peace Summit Vienna, Austria, 2002

World Peace Summit Sydney, Australia, 2003 

World Peace Summit Brno, Czech Republic, 2004

World Peace Summit Zagreb, Croatia, 2005

World Peace Summit Ljubljana, Slovenia, 2006

World Peace Summit Bratislava, Slovak Republic, 2007

World Peace Summit Wellington, New Zealand, 2008

World Peace Summit Szombathely, Hungary, 2009

 

5.2. Topics of the World Peace Summits

Inspiration for the annual summits is drawn from the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi “Be the change you want to see”. Topics are targeted at the United Nations Millennium Development Goals to be reached by 2015, and related topics to help achieve same. These include:

Protection of the Environment                         Ethical & Moral Principles

Health Education                                          Gender Equality in Health & Education

Education for Youth                                      Inter-faith and Multi-Cultural Cooperation

 

6. Publications by Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda

Yoga in Daily Life - The System

Comprehensively presented master system of "Yoga in Daily Life", rooted in the authentic tradition of classical yoga and designed to meet the needs of modern times. It can be practised and utilised by all people in most of life's circumstances - regardless of one's age, gender, profession, education, health, culture or belief.

Hardcover, 17 x 24 cm, 448 pages, with coloured graphics.

Ibera – European University Press: ISBN 3-85052-009-9 German, ISBN 3-85052-000-5 English, ISBN 3-85052-010-2 French, ISBN 3-85052-007-2 Spanish, ISBN 3-85052-001-3 Hungarian, ISBN 3-85052-002-1 Slovenian, ISBN 3-85052-004-8 Croatian, ISBN 3-85052-005-6 Serbian, ISBN 3-85052-008-0 Hindi. Mlada Fronta: ISBN 80-204-1277-8 Czech, ISBN 80-969082-0-0 Slovak. Russian and Katalan in preparation.

 

The Hidden Power in Humans

The Chakra Book by Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda contains a comprehensive overview and insight into the workings of the energy centres found within us, and the dormant powers that influence our destiny. Step by step the author leads us on the journey towards our own Self. Hardcover, 17 x 24 cm, 272 pages, with coloured graphics.

ISBN 3-85052-130-1 German, ISBN 3-85052-197-4 English, ISBN 80-204-1141-8 Czech, ISBN 953-99779-1-6 Croatian, ISBN 963-86903-1-3 Hungarian, ISBN 978-5-91250-395-5 Russian, Hindi, Spanish and Katalan in preparation.

 

7. Youth Union

On August 6 2004 in Czech Republic the Yoga in Daily Life Youth Union was founded. Inspired by His Holiness Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranandaji, a group of children and youth joined under the frame of Yoga in Daily Life to communicate with each other and present their views on many important topics of today: peace in the world, tolerance among nations and religions, multi-culture, vegetarianism and protection of animals and environment.

Additionally, an International Children Peace Conference initiated by Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, the author of the world renowned system of Yoga in Daily Life took place on August 12, 2004. It will was conducted in the beautiful area of the International YIDL centre in Strilky, Czech Republic. This event was supported by representatives of Czech culture, politics and religion.

Children and youth from 10 European countries and the USA gathered to discuss the most urgent matters of today’s world - questions of peace and spiritual values in modern society. The conference coincides with and commemorates the UN's International Youth day.

 

7.1. YIDL Youth Union Opening Statement

Youth of "Yoga in Daily Life" want to hold together and communicate with each other over the internet, solve their problems, put questions and get qualified answers. We are seeking the blessing of Sri Mahaprabhuji and Swamiji and are asking the adults of YIDL to help and support us. Besides the internet communication we will meet at least once or twice a year at a conference or a similar gathering.

• children should have the right to live in whole families
• children should be happy
• they should have opportunities to study
• they should learn to create harmonious families and be faithful to their life partners
• children want world peace
• tolerance between nations and religions
• development of multi-culture
• support of vegetarianism in the world
• protection of animals
• protection of children from drugs and other bad influences

 

7.2. Youth Union Conferences

7.2.1. 2nd International Children Peace Conference – „How to bring more love to the world“

On August 12, 2004, in the beautiful area of the International Yoga in Daily Life Centre in Strilky, Czech Republic, the 2nd International Children Peace Conference, titled „How to bring more love to the world“, took place. Initiated by His Holiness Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranandaji, the Conference was a huge event, with more than 1000 visitors from across Europe and special guests from Indian Embassy in Czech Rep., Mr. Kumar Mukesh (Indian Cultural attaché) and Mr. Charee. Letters of support came from Mrs. Dagmar Havlova (the wife of the ex-president of Czech Republic, Mr. Vaclav Havel) and from the Minister of Environment, Mr. Ambrozek. Children and youth from 10 European countries and the USA gathered to discuss the most urgent matters of today’s world – questions of peace, environment and spiritual values in modern society.

Following the success of the first Conference from 2003, many children were enthusiastically involved in the preparations of the event. They put together more than 30 contributions, consisting of paper presentations, cultural programs and performances. The younger ones drew pictures and decorations, prepared songs and poems.

 

7.2.2. 3rd International Youth Peace Conference, Strilky/Czech Republic

Children want to live in a happy family and in a peaceful world, surrounded by healthy environment – and they are ready to do something to achieve this. These are the conclusions of the 3rd International Youth Peace Conference organized by Yoga in Daily Life Youth Union, established a year ago.

The event of the International Youth Peace Conference has already become traditional and the same goes for its venue, the premises of the International Yoga in Daily Life Centre in the beautiful area of Strilky/Czech Republic. The Conference was initiated by His Holiness Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, the author of the renown System of Yoga in Daily Life. The main theme of this year's event was: „Earth is the planet of life, let us protect the life“.

About 50 children and youth (from 5 to 25 years) with their parents from 12 different countries (Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Monte Negro and Serbia, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, USA) took an active part in the event. Additionally, the Conference was also very seriously taken by adults, who came in great numbers to listen to children's pleads. Many prominent guests appeared at the Conference and some more expressed their support, among them high representatives of Czech Republic authorities and non-governmental organizations:

Mrs. Livia Klausova, wife of the current president of Czech Republic and Mrs. Dagmar Havlova, wife of the previous president of Czech Republic. Mrs. Zuzana Paroubkova, wife of the Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Mr. Ramesh Chander, representative of Indian Embassy, Mr. Libor Ambrozek, Minister of environment, Mrs. Petra Buzkova, Minister of Education. High representatives of Yoga in Daily Life international organizations attended as well and expressed their support and admiration to the activities of the youth.

The youth presented their thoughts and ideas through drawings, poems, essays and performances of music, songs, dance and plays. Rather serious themes were addressed with simplicity and innocence innate to children, but it all resulted in very clear statements about how the world should look like and how people should be to be able to create an atmosphere of love, peace and fruitful coexistence of all living beings. And to show us, that positive ideas must be turned into practice, each of the children selected a wow for him- or herself to keep and act upon to help make the world a better place to live in.

The vows of children included: positive thinking, positive attitude towards people that are different as themselves, anger management, sorting of litter, protecting animals, cleaning the nature from garbage.

His Holiness Swamiji, the initiator and patron of the Conference, gave the closing speech and emphasized the importance of the themes the youth addressed. „Children are our future,“ he said, „and how our children are brought up, so the future world will be. Therefore it is very important that we give them a good example in ourselves and teach them also about the spiritual principles.“

 

7.2.3. International Youth Conference in Jadan/India

In his lifelong quest to foster a happy and healthy world, His Holiness Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda organised an event designed to educate alike the Youth and Elders of India to the importance of world issues such as Environmental Protection, World Peace, Water Conservation and Tolerance for all Religions and Cultures. It took place on January 29th 2006, in Jadan, Rajasthan/India. Important Community topics such as Family and Cultural Values and the importance of a Unified and Educated India were also addressed.

The event was supported by highly regarded citizens such as His Royal Highness the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Speakers included High Court Judges, Politicians and Educators: Mrs. Mamta Meghwal, of the district Pali; Mrs. Lakshmi Barupal M.L.A (member of legislative assembly); Desuri Surendr Singh C.H.M; Judge Madan Ji Rathor M.L.A; Colonel Suk Sing Rathor and his wife Mrs. Vijaya Lakshmi; Pradhan Kesaram Choudry, Mayor of Jadan; and youth of „Vishwadeep Gurukul Vidyale Jadan“; foreign members and friends of YIDL from all over the world; Divya Jyoti, president of the Multicultural Society of Croatia; Agni Mitra representing Youth from Czech Republic; and Nataša Bucar-Dragsler, horticultural architect from Slovenia.

The Program was opened with the beautiful song Saraswati Vandana by the school children of Om Vishwa Deep Gurukul Swami Maheshwarananda Ashram under the guidance of Principal Nehaji Agnihotri. Children from classes 2, 3, 4 and 9 performed a drama about their ideas of a Happy Family, and the need to cultivate and protect Trees. The children also performed traditional songs and folkdances of Rajasthan as well as a splendid Yoga demonstration of the sequence Guru Pranam.

Swamiji reminded all that Yoga joins both soul and nature together: „Yoga has a vast meaning. It is not just a matter of physical exercise, but Yoga enables one to go deep inside, to know the Self.“ Swamiji's message is that we are all united – Soul, humanity and nature. As humans, we are the custodians and the guardians of the planet. „Children are the culture of tomorrow“ and therefore need to be educated in such a way that they develop good habits, in order to live a healthy life. Happiness cannot be found by fulfilling the senses, we must learn to sacrifice – to discover for ourselves the difference between want and need. Mahatma Gandhi was a living example of it. 'Renounce and Rejoice!'.

Gurudev stated that if our necessities of life are less, happiness will come about more easily. With regards to the environment, Swamiji reinforced the need to protect our trees – in fact, all of the flora and fauna. Each person must take an individual stand. Youth must be educated and made aware of their responsibilities to their environment – to reduce waste, recycle and conserve water. The Government cannot be relied upon to do this, it is up to the individual to take personal accountability.

On the subject of a Unified India, Swamiji expressed his sadness, „We are not free in our own land. We have to take a permit like a passport from the government, to go to Manipura and Meghale. We are Indian but prohibited to enter our own territory. Youth should come out and rally hard to rectify this. The youth of today are the ones who will solve this problem. We can only guide and help them.“

For this purpose, the Association of „Yoga in Daily Life Youth Union“ has been formed – so that youth of all countries can have a voice, be unified and work to rectify the problems of terrorism and drug addiction within their communities.

 

7.2.4  Conference on Youth and Ethics Education, 3 – 4 December 2010, Prague, Czech Republic

Organized by the Sri Swami Madhavananda World Peace Council, the Youth Union of Yoga in Daily Life, the National Agency for European Educational Programs, and the Yoga in Daily Life Society.

"Now that we have learned to fly in the air like birds and dive in the sea like fish, only one thing remains – to learn to live on earth like humans."  --George Bernard Shaw

The main objective of the conference was to address the question: "What is ethics and how can it grow and develop in children be fostered in the wider population.” The day's dialogue examined this from various perspectives, including an exploration of “ethical education” as a formal subject in schools. The outcome of the conference strengthened awareness in youth and the general public alike, particularly about the practial applications of ethical values in daily life.

 

8. Initiatives

8.1. Om Ashram

In 1990 His Holiness Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda Puri laid the foundation stone of a large-scale project called the “Om Vishwa Deep Gurukul Swami Maheshwarananda Ashram Education & Research Centre” (commonly referred to as the “Om Ashram”).

The main purpose of this Centre is to promote the ancient Indian science of Yoga and the invaluable spiritual treasure of Vedic culture. This Centre is dedicated to the protection of all life, the environment and world peace. It hosts various charity events and supports education and healthcare.

This ecologically managed Ashram can accommodate up to 500 yoga students for education in Yoga, Sanskrit and Philosophy. The main purpose of this centre is to promote the ancient science of Yoga and the invaluable spiritual treasures of Vedic Culture, including:

• Physical, mental, social and spiritual health
• Respect for the life of all living beings
• Tolerance, respect and understanding amongst religions, cultures and nations
• Protection of human and animal rights and the environment

The central building of this large complex, is constructed in the shape of the ancient Sanskrit symbol OM. The sound of OM consists of three letters: A, U and M. It represents the cosmic vibration, the original eternal sound. OM is the underlying source of creation, adi-anadi – the reality that was, is, and will forever be. Therefore OM represents wholeness, completion. It is the most beautiful mantra, which contains all three fundamental aspects of God – Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Sustainer) and Shiva (the Liberator).

Situated in an area of 250 acres, this central monument will be the largest man-made symbol of OM in the world. The 108 compartments of residential units that are to form this impressive OM shape, attract tremendous cosmic energy. These units are symbolic of the 108 beads of the Japa Mala. A lake will represent the cresent Moon of the OM symbol. Its point, known as bindu, will be constructed as a tower, 108 feet in height, with 12 temples. At 90 feet, there will be a large overhead water tank and above this, a Surya temple dedicated to the Lord of the Sun.

The building is surrounded by many other unique pieces of architecture constructed according to the ancient science of Vastu Shastra. Together, these structures create a harmonious and divine atmosphere where one finds peace of mind, calmness and divine bliss.

8.2.  The Desert Rainwater Harvesting Initiative

To address the repeated major water crisis in India's desert state of Rajasthan, the International Sri Deep Madhavananda Ashram Fellowship, launched a Desert Rainwater Harvesting initiative in 2002 at the World Summit on Sustainable Development, Johannesburg. This Rajasthan initiative utilises traditional rainwater harvesting techniques in conjunction with community based watershed management to provide a sustainable model that can also be used in drought affected areas throughout the world.

The Desert Rainwater Harvesting Initiative is a grass roots project aimed at alleviating poverty and providing a reliable water supply to some of the most remote populations in rural Rajasthan.  A key outcome of the Initiative is the formation of global partnerships and the establishment of an international centre to promote Rainwater Harvesting for desert and semi-arid regions of the world.

 

8.2.1. The Rajasthan Water Crisis

Rajasthan is a desert state in India with a geographical area equal to 10 percent of the country, but with only one percent of the country's water resources. The scarce and fragile water resources in this semi-arid environment are under threat from frequent droughts, increasing groundwater salinity and falling water tables.

8.2.2. The Rainwater Harvesting Solution

The Desert Rainwater Harvesting Initiative created in response to the ever increasing water crisis in India's remote rural communities of Rajasthan and from direct requests from villages affected by extended  droughts, provides a year-round supply of fresh water for rural communities in the affected areas of Rajasthan where the initiative's lead partner has a long standing presence and ongoing working relationship with the local villages.  If only 1% or 2% of the rain that falls on India was captured, it would be sufficient to meet the drinking requirement of a billion people at a liberal 15 litres per person per day.

 

8.2.3. Village Water Action Planning - Community Based Water Management

Village Water Action Planning is a community based participatory process originally developed by OzGREEN (Global Rivers Environmental Education Network - Australia) in 1997 for the World Bank. The process involves working directly with local villages and training them to conduct an environmental assessment of their village and watershed and then develop Village Water Action Plans that will provide the village with a sustainable freshwater supply as well as restore the health of their local environment.

 

8.2.4. A Global Blueprint

Using the experience in the Jadan region, the International Fellowship and its partners will extend the Desert Rainwater Harvesting Initiatives to six other locations throughout remote, rural Rajasthan - where it's other Education and Research Centres have been operating for decades within the local communities. The project will benefit the local communities by providing local employment, fresh water for drinking and agriculture, education opportunities for women and children, reducing pollution, preventing water related diseases and improving public health.

 

8.2.5. Swami Madhavanand Sarovar (Swami Madhavanand Lake)

 In order to provide water for the Ashram's current projects and future developments, including the hospital, the Ashram society constructed a large catchment to harvest the run-off of rain water as it falls. The Ashram's unique position, located on the water course in the area, means a large flow of water passes through the catchment. Built over a period of 3 years, the water for the dam is purified and used to supply drinking water to needy villages in the area.

 

8.2.6. The Partners of the Rainwater Harvesting Initiative

The initiative is led by the International Sri Deep Madhavananda Ashram Fellowship and the Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life. Other contributing partners include:

• OzGREEN - Global Rivers Environmental Education Network, Australia
• Om Vishwa Deep Gurukul, Jadan Pali District, India
• Sri Devapuriji Ashram, New Delhi, India
• Sri Deep Ashram, Jaipur, India
• Yoga in Daily Life - centers in America, Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, Yugoslavia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada.

The initiative would like to acknowledge the initial information and knowledge support of the following NGO's who have done enormous work in the field of Rainwater harvesting:

• Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)
• CECOEDECON
• Fresh Water Action Network (FAN)
• Global Rainwater Harvesting Collective
• Global Ecovillage Network (GEN)

8.3. Sri Madhavananda Austria Hospital

The Sri Swami Madhavananda Austria Hospital Project in India aims to offer compassionate service to the sick and needy, promotes an holistic approach to health care and fosters high standards in health related education and research. It aims to provide adequate medical services for people.

 

8.3.1. Austria Hospital in India

Austria Hospital in India is a registered non profit public benefit organisation which aims to offer medical aid and long term assistance in remote areas of India. It has been in operation since 1994. Its primary goal is to acquire charitable gifts and other resources for Sri Swami Madhavananda Austria Hospital Project’s programs, services and operations.

Austria Hospital in India’s board of trustees is providing direction and oversight to planning and implementing a comprehensive fund development program, including an annual giving club, planned giving alternatives and special events.

 

8.3.2. Project Details

The SRI SWAMI MADHAVANANDA HOSPITAL is a 111-bed allopathic hospital being constructed in Jadan by OM Vishwa Deep Gurukul Sri Swami Maheshwarananda Ashram in conjunction with the Society “Austria Hospital in India” from Vienna, Austria. The Austrian Ambassador in India, Dr. Jutta Stephan Bastl, laid the foundation stone in April 2003. Construction work is being carried our under contract with strict guidance from the Ashram’s European architectural, construction and design specialists – thereby maintaining world-class high quality standards. The following services are provided at the hospital.

• 11 six-bed wards with attached bathrooms
• 21 one/two bedrooms with attached bathrooms
• An emergency block with 3 small operating theatres for minor treatments, examinations and emergencies
• 2 large operating theatres for the provision of minor and major surgery and 1 for gynaecological operations
• 1 block for paediatric services and 1 block for neonatology
• 6 Maternity units with delivery theatre, post-operative care and intensive care facilities for babies
• Intensive care with 10 beds
• Infectology department with 9 beds
• 10 General Practitioner examination rooms
• Equipment and facilities for laboratories, x-ray, ultrasound, casting, etc
• Emergency ambulance servicing the local region.

As an architectural masterpiece, the hospital is a unique star-shaped complex, representing the Anahata Chakra (the heart chakra or energy centre). This symbol is originating from Vedic culture represent healing, compassion and humanitarian care. It captures the spirit of the hospital’s role in this remote rural community, which has been without adequate medical care for a great many years. The complex includes quarters for doctors, technicians and other employees, as well as a parking area and surrounding fields with shady trees, gardens and lawns. A gently sloping hill constructed around all sides of the Hospital covers the basement level, providing internal earth-covered rooms for labs, examination halls, storage and various rooms for public and employee services. In the centre of the building a spacious atrium provides natural light and greenery to the floors above.

The main entrance to the ground floor on the northern side, blinds patients and visitors to a big reception lobby and waiting hall. Day patients are serviced on the basement and ground floors, while in-patients are serviced on the upper floors.

 

8.3.3. Ambulance Service

An ambulance was purchased in 2001 as an interim service to provide free emergency transport for people from remote areas in the Pali district of Rajasthan. It continues to provide emergency services as well as being used for the conduction of village wise camps.

 

8.3.4. Women’s Community Health Service

Women and children are often the most vulnerable groups to diseases and health emergencies. Health care and preventative education programs for women and children are therefore an important part of the Hospital’s work. We are currently training women to act as volunteer community health mentors for remote villages.

 

8.3.5. Jadan Health Program

In December 2009 started the JADAN HEALTH PROGRAM. In this program the children of the Jadan school are instructed about ways to maintain good health. The first lecture was about dental hygiene. It was followed by the topic - "What is healthy vegeterian food". The children and the teacher accepted the program with lot of joy! And some of them had for the first time a toothbrush in their hands.

 

8.4. Jadan School

The Shree Vishwa Deep Gurukul Senior Secondary Vidyalaya (Jadan School) is located in the state of Rajasthan northern India, in the district of Pali, nestled in the village of Jadan. The school is within the Om Vishwa Deep Gurukul, Swami Maheshwarananda Ashram Education & Research Centre - an international epicentre of learning based on the precepts of Yoga, and the largest Yoga in Daily Life ashram in India.

This is the desert region of Rajasthan - dry  arid and subject to long years of drought. Conditions are hard for those who live there, opportunities are limited. It is often the case that families cannot afford to send their children to school and frequently  the girls miss any chance of an education.

By the grace of H.H. Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, Jadan's school was established in 2002, with an enrolment of 146 children from the villages of the surrounding district. The following year enrolments gathered momentum, with 266 children enrolling. Students age from 4 to 14 years. The school now has more than 1300 students studying in classes from kindergraden to 12th grade and beyond to college courses.  

The school is registered with the Government of Rajasthan . The school provides education based on the government syllabus with an parallel syllabus teaching traditional Vedic culture. Excellent quality of staff and small class sizes ensure that students receive the best possible tuition. Education for girls is free, as it is for any child whose family cannot afford the annual fee. Their free education is made possible by funds received from international donors.

To date, generous donations from overseas have helped purchase school uniforms, sports equipment, laboratory equipment for physics, chemistry and biology labs, a library of over 3000 books and CDs, audio visual equipments, 55 computers and nine buses which travel every morning to collect the children, and take them home again at the end of the day.

The enormous success and rapidly growing number of students attending the Jadan's school has put inevitable strain on the limited resources. To sustain the ongoing education of the children of this rural school, financial contributions are required each year.

 

8.4.1. Swastika Building

In the North-West corner of the grounds there is a building called Swastika, an apartment block in the shape of the ancient symbol of the Sun. The Swastika apartments accomodate 150 students who come to the Ashram to participate in various yoga seminars, as well as certificate and diploma courses.

 

8.4.2. The Gyan Putra Programme

One of the most remarkable projects of the Ashram is the “Gyan Putra” scheme that commenced in 1998. It is designed to provide financial support to school children from poor families. The major of their village and the school principals select these children The Gyan Putra scheme provides them with school fees, school uniforms and shoes, stationary and text books.

This sponsorship program helps children attain a high standard of education and thus grants them better employment opportunity for the future. More than 2000 students have been assisted through the scheme for the duration of their studies.

 

8.5. Education for Women

The Jadan Ashram is host to residential education programs for women. Graduates of the program are able to act as the advisors within their local community on matters of child development, hygiene and on the education and development of girls up until their maturity.

8.6.  Disaster Relief

8.6.1. Fire Fighting

The Ashram frequently utilises its 10,000 litre water-tanker to provide a regular supply of water to local villages.  Equipped with fire fighting equipment, the tanker and the Ashram's fire-fighting team, is available for fire fighting 24 hour a day.

In peak fire-risk season, temperatures rise to 48-50 degrees centigrade and winds are strong and dry. During this time the Ashram fire brigade is called upon 2-3 times a day and in the 2002 season they answered over 60 calls for help.

 

8.6.2. Drought Relief

A dual use of the fire-truck is to transport water to drought stricken remote villages. In May-June 2002 18,000 litres of water per day was distributed.

 

8.7. Animal Refugee - Om Shree Deveshwar Mahadev Gaushala Samiti

The desert region of Rajasthan is a harsh environment for all inhabitants and droughts are particularly hard on cattle, that are often let go by villagers who can no longer afford to feed and water them. 

To assist these animals, the Ashram has established several animal refuge called Goshalas to care for abandoned, aged and ill animals. They provide humane veterinary care for hundreds of animals. At present the Samiti is running three Goshalas with more than 800 animals.

 

8.8. Reforestation

The Jadan Ashram has a long term project of reforestation. To date approximately 200,000 trees have been planted in a bid to 'turn the desert green'. 

The Ashram's organic farm aims to be a model for the local area, as local farmers tend to use pesticides heavily. Research is ongoing for the production of natural pesticides from the local Neem tree.

The Ashram produces organic vegetables, wheat, corn, barley and various seeds & spices. This can be difficult land to cultivate especially when the monsoon fails year after year.

One of the outcomes of the reforestation project is the fresh fodder for the animals. This increased nutrition enhances their recovery to good health.  The manure the cows produce is used to manufacture melthane gas for cooking.

 

Additional – Consultative Status with ECOSOC of the U.N.

The Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life (AAYIDL) is a non-governmental organisation in roster consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and affiliated with the Department of Public Information (DPI).

Attaining consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), non-governmental organizations may be admitted into a mutually beneficial working relationship with the United Nations. In concrete terms this entails their participation in ECOSOC and its various subsidiary bodies through attendance at these meetings, and also through oral interventions and written statements on agenda items of those bodies.

Organizations granted status are also invited to attend international conferences called by the U.N., General Assembly special sessions, and other intergovernmental bodies. The Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life was granted roster consultative status in 2004.

Additionally, in 2010 the Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life as a recognised NGO was granted affiliation with the U.N. Department of Public Information. The department’s outreach division acts as its liaison between the United Nations and NGOs and other civil society organizations and oversees partnerships with associated NGOs, providing a wide range of information services to them.

Areas of Interest

In cooperation with other Yoga in Daily Life Associations, throughout the world (in USA, Canada, New Zealand, Europe, Africa and Asia), the Australian Association of Yoga in Daily Life is actively engaged in supporting a number of humanitarian projects for the local area of Pali, Rajasthan, India.

Projects endorse the declarations of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and the Earth Charter Initiative as fundamental and necessary principles on our path to a just, sustainable and peaceful global society.