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{{Infobox organization
|keywords=Ananda Marga,Ananda Marg,Anand Marg,Shrii Shrii Anandamurti,Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar,meditation,yoga,spiritual practices,16 Points,spiritual path
|description=Ananda Marga spiritual practices
|image=https://sarkarverse.org/200fb/200px_Kiirtan.png
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|website      = {{URL|www.anandamarga.org}}
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'''Ananda Marga''' (''Ánanda Márga'' or ''{{IAST|Ānanda Mārga}}'' in Roman [[:wikipedia:Sanskrit|Sanskrit]] [[Roman Sanskrit|transliterations]], {{lang|sa|आनन्द मार्ग}} in Hindi script and আনন্দ মার্গ in Bengali script), meaning "The Path of Bliss", also spelled ''Anand Marg'' and ''Ananda Marg'') is the comprehensive spiritual path (set of spiritually based or spiritually oriented practices) prescribed by [[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar]] aka Shrii Shrii Anandamurti.<ref group=note>Ánandamúrti, as he was called by his early disciples, is a Saḿmskrta word meaning "Bliss personified".</ref> At his direction, all personal instruction in these practices (including yoga exercises and meditation) must always be provided '''free of charge'''.
'''Ánanda Márga''' ([[:wikipedia:Sanskrit|Sanskrit]]: {{lang|sa|आनन्द मार्ग}} ''{{IAST|ānanda mārga}}'' "The Path of Bliss", also spelled ''Anand Marg'' and ''Ananda Marg'') is the comprehensive spiritual path (set of spiritually based or spiritually oriented practices) prescribed by [[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar]] aka Shrii Shrii Anandamurti.<ref group=note>Ánandamúrti, as he was called by his early disciples, is a Saḿmskrta word meaning "Bliss personified".</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
On 1939 August 2, (at 8:30&nbsp;pm, on the [[:wikipedia:full moon|full moon]] day of ''Shravani''<ref group=note>''[[wikipedia:Shraavana|Shravan]]'' is the fifth month of the Indian lunar calendar, beginning in late July and ending in the third week of August. It is the month of festivals, commemorating the precedence of the sacred over all aspects of life.</ref> ''Purnima''<ref group=note>''[[wikipedia:Shraavana|Shravani]]'' ''[[wikipedia:Purnima (day)|Purnima]]'' is the [[wikipedia:Full moon|full moon]] in the month of ''Shravan''.</ref>), Sarkar imparted tantric initiation to Kalicharan Bandyopadhyay (after aka Kalikananda Avadhuta) at the ''Kashi Mitra Ghát́'' on the bank of the [[:wikipedia:Bhagirathi|Bhagirathi]] river in [[:wikipedia:Kolkata|Kolkata]] (aka Calcutta or Kalikata), [[:wikipedia:West Bengal|West Bengal]], India. This was the start of Sarkar's formal teaching. Sarkar was 18 years old at the time. From 1941 until 1954, Sarkar continued teaching the [[Yoga|yogic]] techniques of tantra<ref group=note>P.R. Sarkar clearly explained in his books the meaning of ''Tantra'':  "What is ''Tantra''? The process of transforming (latent divinity) into the Supreme Divinity is known as ''Tantra sadhana''... The significance of the term ''tantra'' is 'liberation from bondage (the bondage of dullness or staticity)'. The letter ''ta'' is the seed (sound) of dulness. And the root verb ''trae'' suffixed by ''da'' becomes ''tra'', which means 'that which liberates' - so the spiritual practice which liberates the aspirant from the dullness or animality of the static force and expands the aspirant's (spiritual) self is ''Tantra sadhana''. So there cannot be any spiritual practice without ''Tantra''. {{cite book |title=Discourses on Tantra |volume=2 |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (Ac. Vijayananda Avt. Editor) |publisher= AMPS-Ananda Printers |year=1994}} "''Tantra'' in itself is neither a religion nor an 'ism'. Tantra is a fundamental spiritual science. So wherever there is any spiritual practice it should be taken for granted that it stands on the ''Tantric'' cult. Where there is no spiritual practice, where people pray to God for the fulfillment of narrow worldly desires, where people's only slogan is "Give us this and give us that" – only there do we find that Tantra is discouraged. So only those who do not understand ''Tantra'', or even after understanding ''Tantra'' do not want to do any spiritual practice, oppose the cult of ''Tantra''." (Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii, 1959).</ref> to a select few in [[:wikipedia:Jamalpur, Munger|Jamalpur]] (in Bihar, India), while employed as an accountant of the [[wikipedia:Indian Railways|Indian Railways]]. In 1955, Sarkar founded the [[Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha]], taking on the role of its first president. Sarkar then resigned from his job with the Indian Railways to dedicate his full-time to that mission. From 1955 until his death in 1990, Sarkar not only went on expanding the scope and global penetration of the Samgha, but he also continuously amplified the teachings and practices of his Ananda Marga. Among other things, in the course of those 35 years, he produced over 200 books on a wide range of topics, he extensively expounded his social theory ([[PROUT]]), he set forth his ultra-positive social outlook ([[Neohumanism]]), and he composed 5,018 songs ([[Prabhat Samgiita]]). To promote his Ananda Marga, Sarkar created a cadre of spiritual teachers, known as [[tattvika]]s and [[acarya]]s. Those teachers who became renunciates were initiated by Sarkar into the [[wikipedia:Shaivism|Shaivite]] order of [[avadhuta]]. 
Unlike most other tantric or yogic missions, Ananda Marga has only one Guru, Shrii Shrii Anandamurti. After his demise, the role of Marga Gurudeva was not passed on to a successor. Hence, the fundamental philosophy and practices of Ananda Marga are largely fixed.
== Conceptual framework ==
Just as the [[wikipedia:Noble Eightfold Path|eight-fold path of Buddhism]] is inspired by what Buddhists refer to as the [[wikipedia:Four Noble Truths|Four Noble Truths]], Ananda Marga is also guided by a well-developed conceptual framework. This is set out in the five chapters of Sarkar's [[Ananda Sutram]].<ref>{{cite book |title=Ánanda Sútram |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=978-8172520274}}</ref>
In philosophical terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is best described as ''advaetadvaetádvaetaváda'' (non-dualistic dualistic non-dualism).<ref>{{citation|title=Namami Krsnasundaram |last={{aut|[[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Anandamurti]]}}|first={{aut|[[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Shrii Shrii]]}} (Ac. Pranavananda Avt. Editor, Ac. Vijayananda Avt. transl. from Bengali) |location=Kolkata |year=1981-1th ed. and followings |publisher= Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha |ISBN=978-8172521110}}</ref> Originally and ultimately, everything is the singular consciousness.
In psychological terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is positive and optimistic. In a nutshell:
# The desire for ''sukha'' (happiness) is the primary drive of living beings.
# Only establishment in ''ánanda'' (unlimited happiness or bliss) can satisfy all thirsts.
# The unlimited is a singular, supreme entity (''Brahma''), beyond physical and psychic constraints.
# Consciously striving for attainment of the Supreme is ''dharma sádhaná'' ([[wikipedia:Self-actualization|self-actualization]]).
According to Sarkar, when a conscious desire for liberation or perfection arises in the mind, one attains the ''sadguru'' (unfailing spiritual guide).<ref>{{cite book |title=Ánanda Sútram |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=978-8172520274}}</ref>
In practical terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is rational and pragmatic. Ananda Marga rejects dogma and ritualistic worship, including religious prayer, in favor of subjective approach through objective adjustment.<ref>{{cite book |title=Ánanda Sútram |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=978-8172520274}}</ref> To enhance devotion (love for the Supreme), Ananda Marga prescribes various yogic and tantric practices for physical, mental, and spiritual development, which Sarkar encapsulated in his [[#Discipline|Sixteen Points]].<ref group=note>Sarkar formulated his Sixteen Points in 1971 about a month before his arrest on December 29.</ref>
In social terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is unifying. Ananda Marga sees a happy blending of individual and collective welfare. In the final analysis, the welfare of the individual depends on the welfare of the collectivity and vice versa.<ref>{{cite book |title=Ánanda Sútram |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=978-8172520274}}</ref> To materialize a progressive society in which this condition is recognized and materialized, Sarkar introduced his [[Progressive Utilization Theory]] and [[Neohumanism]].
== Discipline ==
{{Yama-Niyama}}
{{Yama-Niyama}}
On 1939 August 2, (at 8:30&nbsp;pm, on the [[:wikipedia:full moon|full moon]] day of ''Shravani''<ref group=note>''[[Shraavana|Shravan]]'' is the fifth month of the Indian lunar calendar, beginning in late July and ending in the third week of August. It is the month of festivals, commemorating the precedence of the sacred over all aspects of life.</ref> ''Purnima''<ref group=note>''[[wikipedia:Shraavana|Shravani]]'' ''[[wikipedia:Purnima (day)|Purnima]]'' is the [[wikipedia:Full moon|full moon]] in the month of ''Shravan''.</ref>), Sarkar imparted tantric initiation to Kalicharan Bandyopadhyay (after aka Kalikananda Avadhuta) at the ''Kashi Mitra Ghát́'' on the bank of the [[:wikipedia:Bhagirathi|Bhagirathi]] river in [[:wikipedia:Kolkata|Kalikata]] (aka Kolkata or Calcutta), [[:wikipedia:West Bengal|West Bengal]], India. This was the start of Sarkar's formal teaching. Sarkar was 18 years old at the time. From 1941 until 1954, Sarkar continued teaching the techniques of tantra<ref group=note>P.R. Sarkar clearly explained in his books the meaning of [[Tantra]]:  "What is ''Tantra''? The process of transforming (latent divinity) into the Supreme Divinity is known as ''Tantra sadhana''... The significance of the term ''tantra'' is 'liberation from bondage (the bondage of dullness or staticity)'. The letter ''ta'' is the seed (sound) of dulness. And the root verb ''trae'' suffixed by ''da'' becomes ''tra'', which means 'that which liberates' - so the spiritual practice which liberates the aspirant from the dullness or animality of the static force and expands the aspirant's (spiritual) self is ''Tantra sadhana''. So there cannot be any spiritual practice without ''Tantra''. {{cite book |title=Discourses on Tantra |volume=2 |author=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (Ac. Vijayananda Avt. Editor) |city:Kolkata |publisher= AMPS-Ananda Printers |year=1994}} "''Tantra'' in itself is neither a religion nor an 'ism'. Tantra is a fundamental spiritual science. So wherever there is any spiritual practice it should be taken for granted that it stands on the ''Tantric'' cult. Where there is no spiritual practice, where people pray to God for the fulfillment of narrow worldly desires, where people's only slogan is "Give us this and give us that" – only there do we find that Tantra is discouraged. So only those who do not understand ''Tantra'', or even after understanding ''Tantra'' do not want to do any [[spiritual practice]], oppose the [[cult]] of ''Tantra''." (Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii, 1959).</ref> to a select few in [[:wikipedia:Jamalpur, Munger|Jamalpur]] (in Bihar, India), while employed as an accountant of the [[wikipedia:Indian Railways|Indian Railways]]. In 1955, Sarkar founded the [[Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha]], taking on the role of its first president. Sarkar then resigned from his job with the Indian Railways to dedicate his full time to that mission. From 1955 until his death in 1990, Sarkar not only went on expanding the scope and global penetration of the Samgha, but he also continuously amplified the teachings and practices of his Ananda Marga. Among other things, in the course of those 35 years, he produced over 200 books on a wide range of topics, he extensively expounded his social theory ([[PROUT]]), he set forth his ultra-positive social outlook ([[Neohumanism]]), and he composed 5,018 songs ([[Prabhat Samgiita]]). To promote his Ananda Marga, Sarkar created a cadre of spiritual teachers, known as [[tattvika]]s and [[acarya]]s. Those teachers who became renunciates were initiated by Sarkar into the [[wikipedia:Shaivism|Shaivite]] order of [[avadhuta]].  
{{See also|Sixteen Points}}
The practical discipline (cult) of Ananda Marga consists of sixteen elements and is hence commonly referred to as the Sixteen Points. In their original order, these sixteen points pertain to the following subjects:<ref>{{cite book|title=Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 2 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1987-4th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=978-8172521530}}</ref>
{{columns-list|4|style=width:700px|
# [[#Excretion|Excretion]]
# [[#Genitalia|Genitalia]]
# [[#Hair|Hair]]
# [[#Underwear|Underwear]]
# [[#Constant cleanliness|Constant cleanliness]]
# [[#Bath|Bath]]
# [[#Food|Food]]
# [[#Fasting|Fasting]]
# [[#Sadhana (spiritual endeavor)|Sádhaná (spiritual endeavor)]]
# [[#Sanctity of ideal|Sanctity of ideal]]
# [[#Sanctity of ideology|Sanctity of ideology]]
# [[#Sanctity of conduct rules|Sanctity of conduct rules]]
# [[#Sanctity of the Supreme Direction|Sanctity of the Supreme Direction]]
# [[#Dharmacakra|Dharmacakra]]
# [[#Vows|Vows]]
# [[#CSDK (conduct rules in detail, seminars, duty, kiirtana)|CSDK (conduct rules in detail, seminars, duty, kiirtana)]]
}}
 
=== Excretion ===
After urination, a little water is to be poured over the urinary organ or area. When outside the home, a small container of water (''shaoca manjusa'') is to be carried to ensure that this cleanliness practice may be maintained. (This is in addition to the common practice of cleanliness after defecation.)


=== Chronology ===
This practice helps in the excretion of any urine remaining in the bladder after urination, thereby reducing the likelihood of kidney stones. The practice also reduces unwanted stimulation of the genitalia.  
{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Date !! Event
|-
| '''1939''' || August 2: Sarkar initiates his first disciple.
|-
| '''1954''' || November 7: For the first time, Sarkar addresses all his disciples at a spiritual gathering.{{sfn|Dharmavedananda|1999|p=13 to 23}}
|-
| '''1955''' || January 5: Sarkar declares his ''Ananda Marga'' (Path of Bliss).  


January 9: Sarkar officially inaugurates the ''Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha'' ("Organization for Propagation of the Ananda Marga"). The motto of the organization is ''Átmamokśárthaḿ Jagaddhitáyaca'' (liberation of self and service to all).{{sfn|Dharmavedananda|1999|p=13 to 23}}
=== Genitalia ===
Males should ensure that the foreskin remains pulled back and that the area that would have been covered remains clean. If need be, a minor operation may be performed to enlarge the circumference of the foreskin. Females should maintain regular cleanliness of the genital areas covered by the labia. There is no need or desirability for any form of female circumcision.


At Rampur Colony, Jamalpur, Sarkar conducts the first ''Dharma Maha Cakra'' (DMC).<ref group=note>A spiritual discourse that ends with Sarkar, as Guru, blessing those in attendance with his ''varabhaya mudra''.</ref>
This practice maintains a high standard of cleanliness of the genital area, reducing unwanted stimulation of the genitalia as well as the likelihood of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).


March 15 to 28: Sarkar creates his first ''[[acarya]]s''. Sarkar's first books<ref group=note>Sarkar signed in the name of Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar when discussing [[sociology]], economics, [[philology]] and various other subjects including children's tales, and in the name Shrii Shrii Ánandamúrti when focusing on spiritual topics.</ref> were published. The first book was ''[[Ananda Marga Elementary Philosophy]]''.<ref group=note>This book contains the elementary philosophy of the Ánanda Márga mission (see Anandamurti, S. S., 1955).</ref> The second book was ''[[Problems of the Day|Problem of the Day]]''.
=== Hair ===
|-
Joint hair (under the arms and in the crotch) should be maintained (not cut or plucked). This hair should be cleaned daily. A little bit of oil should be applied afterwards, and the hair may be combed.  
| '''1956''' || Sarkar expounds his social code, ''Caryacarya'' (''carya''="dos"; ''acarya''="don'ts") in three volumes (Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii, 1995-6th ed.).
The [[Ananda Marga College]] is founded at [[Anandanagar]].
|-
| '''1957''' || Sarkar dictates the book ''A Guide to Human Conduct'' (Anandamurti, S. S., 1957-1981), in which he sets out the ten principles of yogic morality, ''Yama-Niyama''.
|-
| '''1958''' || 25 January: at [[Trimuhan]] ([[Bhagalpur]] district, [[Bihar]], India) "Renaissance Universal" (RU)<ref group=note>RU is the first of the 35 boards of the organization.</ref> and "Renaissance Artists and Writers Association" (RAWA) boards are founded.<ref group=note>RAWA is founded during a ''Dharma Maha Chakra'' (DMC) held in [[Bhagalpur]] (at the house of Aniruddha Prasad, one of Sarkar's disciples) in order to restore art to its true meaning.</ref> Sarkar publishes ''Yogic Treatment and Natural Remedies'' (Sarkar, P. R., 1957-Beng. 1983-Eng.)
|-
| '''1959''' || On his fifth book ''Idea and Ideology'',<ref group=note>(Sarkar, P. R., 1961-2001), this is a collection of speeches delivered to higher ''Tattvika'' trainees from 27 May to 5 June.</ref> Sarkar exposes the fundamental traits of the ''Ananda Marga'''s Ideology.
From 15 to 28 March: Sarkar proposes ''[[Progressive utilization theory|Progressive Utilization Theory]]'' (PROUT),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prout.org/ |title=Home of PROUT |publisher=Prout.org |date= |accessdate=2012-06-12}}</ref> a [[Socioeconomics|socioeconomic]] theory that is based on [[Neo-humanism]] and cardinal [[Value (personal and cultural)|human values]].
|-
| '''1961''' || Sarkar condenses the entire ''Ananda Marga'' phylosophy within 85 [[aphorism]]s composed in [[Sanskrit]] in a book called ''[[Ananda Sutram]]'' (Anandamurti, S. S., 1961) (="aphorisms leading to [[ananda]], [[Divinity|divine]] bliss"). The book contains original [[concept]]s of [[metaphysics]], [[epistemology]], ethics and macrohistory.<ref group=note>For a full explanation of all the aphorisms see (Ānanda Mitra, Av., 1981)</ref>
|-
| '''1962''' || Sarkar creates an order of [[monk]]s and [[nun]]s ([[Sannyasa|renunciate minister]]s or ''[[acharya]]s''<ref group=note>These ''ácáryas'' are [[full-time]] [[Workforce|worker]]s and fully ordained ministers. The juniors, known as ''[[Brahmacharya|brahmachariis]]'' and ''brahmacariniis'' for male and female respectively, are dressed up in a [[saffron]]-coloured top and a white bottom, while the seniors, known as ''[[avadhuta]]s'' and ''avadhutikas'', are dressed in full saffron attire.</ref>) and various [[training]] centers (''Prashiksana Matha'') in different parts of the world: [[Ydrefors]] ([[Sweden]]), [[Davao]] ([[Philippines]]), [[Varanasi]] and [[Bangalore]] (India) and [[Ghana]] (Africa).  
|-
| '''1963''' || The "Education, [[Relief]], and [[Tribal]] and Women's Welfare Section" (ERAWS) of ''Ananda Marga'' is founded.{{sfn|Bussey|2010|p=79}} The service activities, such as schools, [[orphanage]]s and emergency relief work, that had started from the inception of ''Ananda Marga'' were now managed by ERAWS. ''Ananda Marga'' registered its headquarters at [[Anandanagar]], West Bengal.
|-
| '''1964''' || The "''Ananda Marga'' Board of Education" is formed.
|-
| '''1965''' || The "Women’s Welfare Department" (WWD)<ref group=note>WWD is started to empower women to contribute and alleviate [[suffering]] of women in many parts of the world.</ref> and the "''Ananda Marga'' Universal [[Relief]] [[Team]]" ([[AMURT]]) are started. AMURT later became an international NGO with many very active teams in the areas affected by natural [[disaster]]s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amurt.net/ |title=Ananda Marga Disaster Relief |publisher=AMURT |date= |accessdate=2012-06-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amurt.org/ |title=Amurt ORG |publisher=Amurt.org |date= |accessdate=2012-06-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amurt.it/ |title=AMURT Italia - Volontariato Internazionale - Adozioni a distanza, donazioni, sostegno e volontariato |publisher=Amurt.it |date= |accessdate=2012-06-12}}</ref>
|-
| '''1967''' || The first ''acaryas'' leave the Indian [[subcontinent]] to propagate worldwide the spiritual philosophy and practices of ''Ananda Marga''.{{sfn|Ng|1995}}{{sfn|Miller|1999}}
|-
| '''1969''' || The first ''Ananda Marga'' "Sectorial office" is created in "New York Sector" (whose jurisdiction is [[North America|North]] and Central America together with the [[Caribbean]]) was opened in [[Carbondale, Illinois]], USA.{{sfn|Ng|1995}}{{sfn|Miller|1999}}
|-
| '''1971''' || Sarkar is arrested and [[imprisonment|imprisoned]] with false accusations (the truth will be established in a re-trial only in 1978 after more than seven years of imprisonment).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://proutglobe.org/prsarkarlegal/Sheppard-Report-9Aug1976.pdf|title=Report on the Ananda Marga leader Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar (Baba) in Patna, India|author=The International Commission of Jurists (Geneva) and The International League for the Rights of Man (New York)|date=August 9, 1976|accessdate=March 26, 2012}}</ref> Under a declared [[Opposition (politics)|opposition]] from the [[Indian government]], Sarkar receives [[Life imprisonment|life sentence]].{{sfn|Barker|1989|p=168}}
|-
| '''1973''' || Approximately 100 local centers teaching yoga, meditation, spiritual and social philosophies in many countries of the world are established.{{sfn|Ng, F.|1995}}{{sfn|Miller|1999}}
February 12: Sarkar claims claims to have been poisoned while in Bankipur Central Jail, [[Patna]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,907243,00.html|title=Religion: Violent Bliss|publisher=Time Magazine|date=May 14, 1973|accessdate=March 26, 2012}}</ref>{{sfn|Ghista|2011}}


April 1: Sarkar's demand for a judicial investigation in his [[poison]]ing<ref group=note>The poisoning causes serious health problems to the leader, partially damaging his sight.</ref> remains unanswered by the authorities and consequently he starts [[fasting]] on a daily glass of [[yoghurt]] water until his release on 1978.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proutglobe.org/2011/09/40-years-since-sarkar-was-jailed-poisoned/|title=40 Years Since Sarkar Was Jailed, Poisoned|publisher=Prout Global|date=January 2011|accessdate=March 26, 2012}}</ref>
This practice helps to regulate the vital energies (''práńáh''). It strengthens the nervous system by maintaining a balance of body heat. The oil also serves as a natural deodorant.
|-
| '''1975''' to '''1977'''  || "''Ananda Marga'' Relief Team [[Lady|Ladies]]" (AMURTEL) is started. This relief team is managed by women and initiates programs that raise the standard of health and education of women and their ren.


June 26: under the [[The Emergency (India)|state of emergency]] (which will last until March 21, 1977) imposed by the Indian government of [[Indira Gandhi]] most of his opponents, including ''Ananda Marga'', are outlawed and arrested. Over 400 of its schools in India are closed down, and numerous ministers and adherents are imprisoned with false charges. This situation, together with the arbitrary detention and the alleged poisoning of Sarkar, leads to a global campaign of protests by many followers of ''Ananda Marga''. As a desperate form of protest a few members of ''Ananda Marga'', against the will of their master, committed [[self-immolation]] in the late 1970s.{{sfn|Prins|2005|p=251}}{{sfn|Barker|1989|p=168 and 54-5}} In the wake of protests three members of the organization assault and injure an employee of the Indian Government in London.<ref group=note>They were sentenced to a total of 12 years on 1978 (see Birmingham Evening Mail, Saturday, November 4, 1978).</ref>
=== Underwear ===
Wear appropriate underwear. For men, this means a special loincloth, called a ''[[wikipedia:Langota|langota]]''. For women, this means panties and brassiere (or tight-fitting vest).  


The board "Prevention of [[Cruelty]] to Animals and Plants" (PCAP) is founded.<ref name="pcap.ws">[http://pcap.ws/ Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Plants (PCAP)] (Retrieved 24 November 2012).</ref>
This practice protects the sexual organs and prevents unnecessary stimulation of those organs, thereby reducing the sexual drive and enabling higher expressions of love that originate at the ''[[wikipedia:Anahata|anáhata cakra]]''.
|-
| '''1978''' || February 13 and June 15: some members of Ananda Marga are alleged to have been involved in violent acts to protest against the unjust detention and poisoning of P. R. Sarkar in India.<ref group=note>The accusations: 1)the bombing of the [[Sydney Hilton bombing|Sydney Hilton]] hotel during the [[Commonwealth Heads of Government Regional Meeting]] in Australia (on February 13) and, 2)the conspiracy to murder the leader of the Australian National Front, Robert Cameron (on June 15). Evidence subsequently produced in court showed that Ananda Marga had been closely watched by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) since the movement arrived in Australia in the early 1970s. This included telephone taps, and other surveillance methods.
Subsequent to the appeal to the High Court, a judicial inquiry in New South Wales cast doubt over police informer, Richard Seary, a prosecution witness, on whose affidavits was primarily based prosecution ([http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/other/IndigLRes/car/1993/6/21.html Responding to Custody Levels – Compensation for Miscarriage of Justice]).
After a long judicial history the main prosecution witness was recognised as unreliable and the AM members were acquitted (1-[http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/cth/HCA/1984/85.html ''Alister v R'' ("Hilton Bombing case") (1984) HCA 85.], 2-[http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/cth/HCA/1984/85.html ''Alister v R'' ("Hilton Bombing case") per Murphy J (2) para 2 (1984) HCA 85.], 3-[http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/cth/HCA/1984/85.html ''Alister v R'' ("Hilton Bombing case") per Wilson & Dawson JJ para 17 (1984) HCA 85.], 4-[http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LA19911209005 Parliament Hansard: Hilton Hotel Bombing, Government of New South Wales, December 9, 1991, accessdate=2008-03-13 (First motion for an inquiry)], 5-[http://www.wilsonsalmanac.com/hilton.html Pip Wilson (February 13, 2003). Lies, spies and the Sydney Hilton bombing, (accessdate=2008-03-16, archived from the original on 3 March 2008. Retrieved 2008-03-16)], 6-[http://www.benhills.com/articles/articles/SCM38a.html Ben Hills. The Hilton Fiasco. SMH 12 February 1998, p.11 (accessed 6 September 2010)]).
The perpertrators have never been found. Evidence that Australian security forces may have been responsible led to the New South Wales parliament unanimously calling for an inquiry in 1991[1] and 1995.[2]  The Government of Australia vetoed any inquiry.</ref>
July 4: end of state of emergency in India: Sarkar is found innocent and acquitted on appeal.<ref>See [[Times of India|''Times of India'', July 5, 1978]].</ref>{{sfn|Melton|2010|p=105}}
|-
| '''1979''' || May: Sarkar travels overseas visiting Europe (Germany, France, [[Italy]]<ref group=note>In Italy Sarkar lands at [[Milan]]'s airport but due to visa problems he is not allowed to access in the country.</ref> Spain, Netherlands, [[Sweden]], Switzerland and Ireland).{{sfn|Vijayananda|1994|p=80}}
|-
| '''1980''' ||Sarkar visits [[Taiwan]], Thailand, Hong Kong, Greece, [[Turkey]], Israel, Spain, Denmark, Germany, Island.{{sfn|Vijayananda|1994|p=80}}
September: Sarkar visits [[Jamaica]] and [[Venezuela]].{{sfn|Vijayananda|1994|p=80}}<ref group=note>On April, Sarkar does not get a visa for the USA due to his problems with the Indian government. (See MacDougall, C. D., 1983).</ref>
|-
| '''1982''' || Sarkar introduces the philosophy of [[Neohumanism#Neohumanism|Neohumanism]]<ref group=note>On this subject see (Sarkar, P. R., 1982) and (Sarkar, P. R., 1987), (Ānanda Mitra, Ā. A. 1986). See also (Prasiidananda, A. A. 1990)</ref> and publishes several volumes on [[philology]].<ref group=note>Throughout his life Sarkar gave thousands of speeches on various themes which were further transcribed but not all yet published. The topics included spiritual philosophy, cosmology, history, anthropology, bio-psychology, farming, naturopathy, education, socioeconomic liberation, and other literary works.</ref> 
Sarkar began to compose what later would comprise of 5,018 songs collectively called [[Ananda Marga#Musical production|''Prabhata Samgiita'']] (Songs of the New Dawn).
|-
| '''1986''' || Sarkar began to propound the "Theory of ''[[Microvita theory|Microvita]]''".<ref group=note>Which can be defined as small, subtle [[Entity|entities]] which he said are the foundation of all [[existence]]</ref> The "''Microvita'' Research Institute" is founded to begin the researches on this field.
|-
| '''1990''' || September 7: Sarkar founds ''Ananda Marga Gurukula''.
October 21: Sarkar dies at 3:10&nbsp;pm. Acarya Shraddhananda Avadhuta is elected from the body of ''purodhas'' as President of the ''Ananda Marga'' global organization and ''Purodha Pramukha''.<ref group=note>He served in that capacity until his death in 2008.</ref>
|-
| '''1991''' || ''Ananda Marga Universal Relief Team'' receives recognition as an NGO by the United Nations.
|-
| '''1996''' || The Supreme Court of India lifts the ban on government employees from being members of ''Ananda Marga'', and affirmed the legal status of the organization.
|}
</div>


== Disciplines, Teachings and Practice ==
=== Constant cleanliness ===
[[tantra|Tantra yoga]], as interpreted by [[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Shrii Shrii Anandamurti]], is the practical philosophy which serves as [[Foundation (engineering)|foundation]] of ''Ananda Marga''. According to P.R. Sarkar's teachings ''Tantra'' means [[Moksha|liberation]] from [[darkness]], the root ''tan'' meaning darkness, and ''tra'' liberation.
Before meditation, meals, and sleep, perform ''vyápaka shaoca'' (half-bath). This is done by first washing (with water) the genital area, second hands up to elbows and legs up to knees; then, taking a mouthful of water, splash water on the eyes and face at least twelve times. Finally wash the ears and the neck. If your stomach is empty, you may also do ''násápána'' (flushing the nostrils with water).  
[[Meditation]] is the main spiritual practice of this ''tantric'' tradition, and through it the practitioner struggles to overcome [[weakness]]es and imperfections. The basis of ''Ananda Marga'' practice is covered by a set of rules called the 'Sixteen Points' that guide the practitioner on both [[Spirituality|spiritual]] and social aspects.


Anandamurti expounded these principles in '''{{IAST|Ānanda Sūtram}}''' a text composed in Sanskrit in 1961.
This practice gives a sense of freshness and energy, lowers blood pressure, and improves eyesight.


=== Meditation, ''Lalita Marmika'' dance and ''Kirtan'' ===
=== Bath ===
[[File:Yoga Meditation Pos-410px.png|thumb|left|x130px|Meditation's posture.]]
{{See also|Bathing Procedure and Pitr Yajina}}
In the ''tantric'' tradition of ''Ananda Marga'' the spiritual aspirant ([[sadhaka]]) practices [[sadhana]]. ''Sadhana'' (a [[Sanskrit]] word) signifies the effort through which a person becomes completely [[Self-realization|realized]]. In ''Tantra'' the spiritual master, the [[guru]],<ref group=note>Who is the guru? In [[Ananda Sutram]], on sutra 3-9, P. R. Sarkar as Shri Shri Anandamurti clearly stated ''Brahmaeva gururekah náparah'': Only Brahma is the guru, no one else. Who is Brahma is explained in the first sutra (1-1): ''Shivashaktyátmakam Brahma'': [[Brahma]] is the composite of [[Shiva]] and [[Shakti]]<br></ref> plays a special role. The ''guru'' guides and leads students on the spiritual path. The aspirant [[Learning|learns]] meditation by a qualified ''acarya''. An ''acarya'' is most commonly a [[monk]] or [[nun]], but in the ''Ananda Marga'' tradition there are also "family ''acaryas''". In the [[initiation]] the aspirant makes a commitment to practice meditation and to live in harmony with the universal balance, and is then taught the technique itself. The aspirant is then required to keep the individual [[lesson]]s personal. In addition, he also taught ''Kapalika'' meditation to many ''[[Sannyasa|sanyásins]]''. His system of ''yoga'' can be termed as ''Rájadhirája Yoga'', ''Tantra Yoga'', or simply ''Ánanda Márga Yoga''. The basic ''Ánanda Márga'' meditation system is called [[Sahaja Yoga]] ('simple yoga'). The ''sahaja'' system consists of 6 meditation techniques or lessons taught one by one, on a personal basis.<ref group=note>This is the short list of six lessons: 1)First Lesson: ''Iishvara Pranidhana'' (Personal mantra and ''Ishta [[Cakra]]''), 2)Second Lesson: ''Guru Mantra'' (Personal ''[[Guru]] [[Mantra]]''), 3)Third Lesson: ''Tattva Dharana'' (Concentration on ''[[Cakra]]s' [[Tattva]]s''), 4)Fourth Lesson: ''Sadharana Pranayama'' (Basic ''[[Pranayama]]''. A special respiration tecnique), 5)Fifth Lesson: ''Cakra Shodhana'' (Purification of ''Cakras''. A special type of ''[[Dharana]]''), 6)Sixth Lesson: ''Guru Dhyana'' (Special type of ideation for ''[[Dhyana in Hinduism|Dhyana]]'').</ref> There is also a set of higher meditation lessons taught to advanced practitioners committed to dedicate more time for [[spiritual practice]]s and universal [[Selfless service|service]].
[[Image:Pp-all-no arrows.jpg|thumb|220px|right|upright|Bath mantra]]  
Take a full bath at least once a day. In a very hot climate, take a full bath at least twice a day. Before drying the body, face the sun or a bright light, and perform the bath mantra (''pitr yajiṋa''). The associated gestures express the spirit of the mantra while ensuring that the rays of light are absorbed evenly throughout the upper torso.  


According to the ''Ananda Marga'' system the ''Lalita Marmika'' dance is performed, particularly during the collective meditation.<ref group=note>According with the teachings of P.R. Sarkar, ''Lalita Marmika'' is a devotional dance invented by [[Parvati]], the wife of [[Shiva]].</ref> This ''yogic'' dance with swaying movements, combined with a ''[[kirtan]]'' (the chanting of the universal ''mantra''), is regarded as useful in freeing the mind and preparing it for meditation.
This practice amplifies the benefits of [[#Constant cleanliness|half-bath]] and promotes humility and spirituality.
''Ananda Marga'' system recommends to its members the practice of collective meditation at least once a week. These meetings called ''Dharma Chakras'' (weekly held in a place called ''Dhyan Mandir'') are preceded by the singing of few ''Prabhat Samgiita'' ("Songs of the New Dawn" composed by the ''Ananda Marga'' founder) followed by the spiritual dance of ''Lalita Marmika'' along with the singing of ''{{audio||kiirtan}}'' and by the practice of meditation. Before meditation the ''{{audio|Samgacchadvam.OGG|Samgacchadvam}}'' ''mantra'' is chanted. At the end of meditation the ''{{audio|Nityam Shuddham.OGG|Nityam Shuddham}}'' and the ''{{audio|Guru Puja.OGG|Guru Puja}}'' ''mantras'' are recited.


=== Vegetarian Diet, ''Yoga asanas'', Physical Exercises and ''Yogic'' Treatments ===
=== Food ===
[[File:Sarvangasana.jpg|thumb|left|x180px|Yoga [[Sarvangasana]].]]
{{see also|Procedure for Eating}}
[[File:Urdhva tandava.png|thumb|left|x200px|[[Tandava]] dance. One of the 108 Tandava poses of [[Nataraja]] (dancing [[Shiva]]).]]
Both body and mind require food. Hence, food may be either carbonic or non-carbonic. In both cases, appropriate food should be consumed.


The basic practices of ''Ananda Marga'' comprises ''yoga [[asana]]s'', ''[[mudra]]s'', ''[[Bandha (Yoga)|bandha]]s'', ''[[pranayama]]'', ''[[Massage#Self massage|self-massage]]'' and two specific dances, ''[[Kaosikii dance|kaos'ikii]]'' and ''[[tandava]]''. [[Lacto-vegetarianism|Lacto]]-vegetarian [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] and [[fasting]] are also included, as a fundamental part of ''yogic'' practices.
The three categories of food are:
*[[Diet (nutrition)|Diet]] and [[fasting]]: [[Lacto-vegetarianism|Lacto]]-vegetarian diet of ''Ananda Marga'' avoids meat, fish, [[egg (food)|egg]]s and some substances which are claimed to have a negative effect on the mind. Moreover, on specific monthly dates called ''[[Ekadashi]]'' (Sanskrit: एकादशी, ekādaśī: is the eleventh day after the [[full moon]] or after the [[new moon]]),<ref group=note>''Ananda Marga'' ''[[acharya]]s'' practice fasting in two additional days per month called ''Purnima'' and ''Amavasya''</ref> the regular practice of ''Upavasa'' (''yoga'' [[fasting]]) is recommended to improve health and strengthen the mind.
* ''Sáttvika'' – Sentient (good for both body and mind)
* ''[[Yoga]] [[asana]]s'', ''[[mudra]]s'' and ''[[Bandha (Yoga)|bandha]]s'': comprises 42 [[asana]]s<ref group=note>The following are the ''Ananda Marga Asanas'' as listed from P.R. Sarkar in "''Ananda Marga Caryacarya'' part 3": ''Sarvanungasana, Matsyamudra, [[Matsyasana]], Matsyendrasana, [[Virasana]], [[Cakrasana]], Naokasana (or [[Dhanurasana]]), Utkata Pascimottanasana, Parvatasana (or [[Halasana]]), Shivasana, [[Vajrasana (yoga)|Vajrasana]], [[Siddhasana]], Baddha Padmasana, [[Kukkutasana]], [[Gomukhasana]], [[Mayurasana]], [[Kurmakasana]], Sahaja Utkatasana, [[Shalabhasana]], [[Bhujaungasana]], [[Shashaungasana]], Bhastrikasana, Janushirasana, Ardhashivasana, Ardhakurmakasana (or Dirgha Pranama), Yogasana (or Yogamudra), Tuladandasana, Ustrasana, Utkata Kurmakasana, Jatila Utkatasana, Utkata Vajrasana, Padahastasana, Shivasana, Padmasana, Karmasana, Jinanasana, Bhavasana, Granthimuktasana, Garudasana, Dvisamakonasana, Tejasana, Mandukasana''.</ref> which were chosen by P.R. Sarkar. There are mainly two types of asana: ''svasthyasanas'' and ''dhyanasanas''.<ref>Shrii Shrii Anandamurti, 2010, p.20.</ref> They should be performed at least once a day. 15 ''Yoga [[mudra]]s'' and ''[[Bandha (Yoga)|bandha]]s'' are also part of the basic ''Ananda Marga Yoga''.<ref group=note>Mudras and bandhas are also listed in "''Ananda Marga Caryacarya'' part 3": ''Uddayana Mudra, Bandhatraya Yoga (Mahamudra, Mahabandha, Mahaveda), Parthivii Mudra, Ambhasii Mudra, Agneyii Mudra, Vayavii Mudra, Akashii Mudra, Manasii Mudra, Agnisara Mudra, Kakacaincu Mudra,  Trimunda Mudra, Ashvinii Mudra, Vajrolii Mudra''.</ref>
* ''Rájasika'' – Mutative (good for either the body or mind and neutral for the other)  
* ''Támasika'' – Static (bad for either the body or mind)  


*''[[Yoga|Yogic]]'' [[Therapy|treatments]]: on 1957 P. R. Sarkar published in Bengali ''Yaogika Cikitsa o Dravyaguna'' which was translated into English and published in 1983 with revisions under the title ''[[Yogic Treatments and Natural Remedies]]''. In this handbook, Sarkar gave indications on ''yogic'' treatments using ''ásanas'' and ''mudrás'' combined with claims about natural and traditional remedies for about forty diseases. The book also contains many tips for maintaining good health through the use of water, [[clay]], etc.<ref group=note>In the preface the author specifically warns the reader not to risk of practising ''ásanas'' and ''mudrás'' without the guidance of an experienced ''yoga'' teacher.</ref>
The rule is to eat in moderation, preferring ''sáttvika'' food and avoiding ''támasika'' food. It should also be kept in mind that there may be some variations from person to person and climate to climate.  
* ''[[Kaoshikii]]'': the 'dance for mental expansion', was defined by P. R. Sarkar a 'physico-psycho-spiritual' exercise which can be performed by all and consists of 18 [[mudra]]s aligning with 6 physical postures, each associated with a specific [[idea]]<ref group=note>The spiritual ideation is carried along with the dance in order to establish a subtle link with the divine.</ref> while strengthening [[body]] and [[mind]] and making them flexible.
* ''[[Tandava]]'' or ''Tāṇḍava'': is a vigorous dance.<ref group=note>Associated with [[Shiva]] in his cosmic dancer image of [[Nataraja]].</ref> The name ''tandava'' is derived from the Sanskrit word ''tandu'', which means 'to jump'. This dance is only performed by male followers in ''Ananda Marga''. The dance is performed to imbue the practitioner's mind with [[courage]] and [[honour]], dispelling all sorts of complexes and [[fear]], even fear of death itself.<ref group=note>Thus the dance also has an associated ideation. The dancer starts off with the two arms outstretched, the left arm with an open [[Hand anatomy|palm]], and the right arm with a clenched fist. The dancer ideates holding a human [[skull]] in the left hand, [[symbol]]izing death, and ideates on holding a [[knife]] in the right, [[symbol]]izing the fight for life. The actual objects (human skull and knife) may be also used. The dance starts with a jump and landing in a position of bent knees. Another jump follows, and the dance continues in a jumping manner lifting one leg then the other continuously. [http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050526/aplus.htm Tribuneindia.com story]</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.religlaw.org/template.php?id=2314 |title=Religion and Law Consortium: A Research Forum for Legal Developments on International Law and Religion or Belief Topics |publisher=Religlaw.org |date= |accessdate=2011-03-18}}</ref>


== Spiritual and Social Philosophy ==
This practice strengthens both body and mind. It also enables the second stage of [[neohumanism]], spirituality as a principle.
The philosophy of ''Ananda Marga'' is a synthetic outlook, recognizing a 'Supreme Consciousness',<ref>See: Shrii Shrii Ánandamúrti, 1954, pp. 15 and 68.</ref> which is claimed to be both [[Transcendence (religion)|transcendental]] and manifested in all.<ref group=note>This [[universe]], having been created by the 'Supreme Consciousness', is existing in the 'Supreme Entity': "The 'Supreme Entity' is the vastest [[entity]]; the ultimate source of all cosmic emanations. The 'Supreme Entity', which is difficult to conceive, is the subtlest of the subtle. He is farther away than any other entity, but again He is nearer than the nearest. Only the one who looks into the innermost recesses of himself can realize the 'Supreme Entity'." (Shrii Shrii Anandamurti)</ref> It covers both the [[Spirituality|spiritual]] and the social combining the two in a unique synthesis of [[Universalism|universal]] [[Visual perception|vision]].<ref group=note>In his famous discourse "''Sambhúti'' and ''Mahásambhúti''" given on July 1967, [[Delhi]], India during the DMC (''Dharma Maha Chakra'') P.R. Sarkar well explained this concept: "In short, whatever was created in the past is the original creation (''sambhúti'') of God. The sum total of all creations is the Cosmic Order (''Brahmáńd́a''). This includes the [[sun]] as well as the small [[ant]] which crawls on the [[earth]]. Whether it is a dead [[star]] or a living star, whether it is a [[nebula]] or a [[milky way]] or a [[galaxy]] – all belong to one universal family."</ref>
To this end ''Ananda Marga'' suggests a [[Pragmatism|practical]], [[Rationality|rational]], and systematic [[Lifestyle (sociology)|way of life]] for the balanced development of all human potentialities: [[Physical body|physical]], [[Energy (psychological)|psychic]] and [[Spirituality|spiritual]]. This [[system]] incorporate [[Practice (social theory)|practice]]s that range from [[hygiene]] and [[diet (nutrition)|diet]], [[Asanas|yoga postures]], to a [[Science|scientific]] [[Technology|technique]] of [[meditation]] based on [[morality|moral rules]] and directed to the inner fulfillment. It recognizes that a balance is needed between the [[Spirituality|spiritual]] and [[mundane]] aspects of [[existence]], and that neither one should be neglected at the [[expense]] of the other. Hence, the [[goal]] of ''Ananda Marga'' is "[[self-realization]] and the welfare of all".


=== Spiritual philosophy ===
=== Fasting ===
[[File:Kiirtan.svg|thumb|right|''Lalita Marmika'' dance.]]
{{main|Fasting}}
[[File:DadasKirtan3.jpg|thumb|right|x150px|Photo ([[Italy]] July 1978) of an international group of ''Ananda Marga'' followers singing a [[Kirtan]] in occasion of Shrii Shrii Anandamurti's liberation.]]
{{See also|Procedure for Fasting}}
[[File:CrescentMoon2.JPG|thumb|right|Kaoshiki dance.]]
When in good health, observe a complete fast on the appropriate fasting days. For householders, the fasting days are the eleventh day (''ekádashii'') after both the new moon (''amávasyá'') and the full moon (''púrńimá''). For renunciates, the fasting days are ''ekádashii'', ''amávasyá'', and ''púrńimá''. In other words, householders fast twice in a lunar month, and renunciates fast four times in a lunar month. The extra time and attention from not eating should be dedicated to contemplation of the Supreme (''upavása'', living near the Lord).
[[Image:MedAsana.png|thumb|220px|right|upright|Meditation and asanas.]]


The [[Spirituality|spiritual]] philosophy of ''Ananda Marga'' covers a vast range of [[Topic–comment|topic]]s and can be [[Learning|learned]] from P.R. Sarkar's publications. ''Ananda Marga'' philosophy recognizes that the [[universe]] is the creation of the mental [[thought]]-[[waves]] of the 'Supreme counsciousness'. The following is a brief list of the essential elements of ''Ananda Marga'' Spiritual Philosophy:
This practice gives the digestive system a complete rest and protects against the loss of mental equilibrium.
* '''Atma''' or '''[[Soul]]''' and '''[[Paramatma]]''' or the '''[[Cosmic Consciousness]]''': the Consciousness (''Purusa'') is [[Reflection (physics)|reflected]] in the unit objects forming the "unit consciousness" (''atma'') or [[soul]]. Particularly the reflection of the soul on the mind is called ''jiivatma'' and in that case the "reflector-soul" is called ''Paramatma'' (Supreme Soul).<ref group=note>''Vis’aya purus’a'vabha’shah jiiva’tma’'': "The reflection of Consciousness - ''Purusa'' - in the unit object is known as ''jiiva’tma'' - "unit soul" - (''A’nanda Sutram'', Chapter 2, Sutra 8 (2-8) in Avadhūtika Ānanda Mitra Ācāryā, 1981).</ref>
* '''Realms of the [[Mind]]''': according to ''Ananda Marga'' philosophy the human mind is composed of five layers called ''Kosas'':<ref group=note>The last three deeper layers are collectively called "Causal Mind". "Causal" signifies that these layers are in the most direct contact with the "Causal Consciousness" from which the mind has evolved and within which it exists.</ref> 1)''Kamamaya Kosa'' ("desire layer") or "Crude Mind": is the crudest layer, purified through adherence to the yogic code of morality, Yama-Niyama.<ref group=note>This ''Kosa'' controls the various autonomic activities of the body and the expression of the mental propensities, known as ''vrtti'', in [[Samskrta]].</ref> 2)''Manomaya Kosa'' ("layer of thinking") or "Subtle Mind": is the layer of thought and memory.<ref group=note>This ''Kosa'' gives experience of pleasure and pain. It is developed naturally through physical clash, and in ''Ananda Marga sadhana'' by ''pranayama'' with cosmic ideation.</ref> 3)''Atimanasa Kosa'' or "Supramental Mind": is the intuitive layer.<ref group=note>This ''Kosa''  gives the capacity of intuitive [[dream]]s, [[clairvoyance]], [[telepathy]] and [[creativity|creative]] insight. It is developed naturally through psychic clash, and in ''Ananda Marga sadhana'' by methods of ''pratyahara'' (withdrawal) such as ''shuddhis'' and ''Guru Puja''.</ref> 4)''Vijinanamaya Kosa'' ("layer of the special knowledge") or "Subliminal Mind": is the layer of conscience or discrimination (''viveka'') and ''[[Vairagya|vaeragya]]'' (non-attachment).<ref group=note>This ''Kosa'' is developed naturally through psychic clash, and its development is accelerated by the process of ''dharana''.</ref> 5)''Hiranyamaya Kosa'' ("golden level") or "Subtle Causal Mind": is the subtlest layer. Here the [[awareness]] of mind is very close to the direct [[experience]] of "Supreme Consciousness".<ref group=note>Here there is only the separation of a thin veil of ignorance. This ''Kosa'' is developed naturally through the attraction for the Great, and ''[[Dhyana in Hinduism|dhyana]]'' accelerates this process for ''[[sadhaka]]s'' (spirituals aspirants).</ref>
* '''[[Microvita theory]]''': ''Microvita'' is plural for ''Micro-vitum'' and literally means "micro-life". The concept was first introduced on 1986 through a series of lectures by P.R. Sarkar. According to this notion, microvita are entities which come within the realms both of physicality of psychic expression. They are smaller and subtler than physical [[atom]]s and [[subatomic particle]]s, and in the [[psychic]] realm they may be subtler than mind–stuff, and contribute to "pure consciousness".{{sfn|Dalal|2011|p=325}} The author predicted in 1991 that they would soon be recognized by conventional science.{{sfn|Sarkar|1991}} They have not been.


=== Social philosophy ===
=== Sadhana (spiritual endeavor) ===
The social outlook of ''Ananda Marga'' recognizes that the welfare of the [[individual]] is linked with the welfare of the [[collective]], each relying on the other for its [[existence]] and dynamism. According to this philosophy everyone has the [[Rights|right]] to [[Equal opportunity|equal opportunities]] of life and [[Social change|development]] and as such there should be no discrimination on the basis of superficial barriers such as [[race (classification of humans)|race]], nationality and religion. ''Ananda Marga'' advocates a world of [[justice]], security and [[peace]] for all.<ref>[http://anandamarga.org/social-philosophy/ Ananda Marga Social Philosophy]</ref> The Social Philosophy of ''Ananda Marga'' can be categorized under the topics:
Practice the meditation techniques (collectively referred to as ''sádhaná'', spiritual endeavor), learned from one's [[Acarya|ácárya]], at least twice a day regularly. If one has also been given ''ásanas'' (yogic postures), those too should be practiced twice daily, unless otherwise instructed. (Preferably, ''ásanas'' are performed after meditation rather than before it.)  
* '''[[Neohumanism#Neohumanism|Neohumanism]]''': in 1982, Sarkar extended his writings on the subject of [[Society|human society]] with the [[Introduction (essay)|introduction]] of his new theory of "[[Neohumanism#Neohumanism|Neohumanism]]".<ref>See: Sarkar, P. R., 1982.</ref> While [[humanism]] extends the recognition of equal rights to all humans, yet tends to anthropocentric worldview, neohumanism, according to Sarkar's theory, is instead the elevation of humanism to [[universalism]], thus expanding an inclusive spirit of welfare to all living beings and the created world.<ref group=note>"When the underlying spirit of [[humanism]] is extended to everything, animate and inanimate, in this [[universe]] – I have designated this as "Neohumanism". This Neohumanism will elevate [[humanism]] to [[universalism]], the [[cult]] of love for all created beings of this [[universe]]." (Sarkar, P. R., 1982).</ref>
* '''Education''': according to the ''Ananda Marga'' system "Education is for [[Moksha|Liberation]]." Education means the simultaneous development in the physical, mental and [[Spirituality|spiritual]] [[realm]]s of human [[existence]]. By this, dormant human [[potentialities]] will be awakened and put to proper use. Sarkar said that real education leads to a pervasive [[Feeling|sense]] of love and [[compassion]] for all creation; in the ''Ananda Marga's'' education system, special emphasis is given to [[Morality|moral]] education and the inculcation of idealism together with a "psycho-pedagogical approach" and a blending of occidental extroversial science and oriental introversial philosophy.<ref group=note>"The noblest form of social service is to educate the public and create a sense of consciousness in them. This sense of consciousness is to be instilled in every human being. This is your duty. The goal of education is to elevate the all-round standard, and especially the intellectual standard. In addition, the elevation of the moral standard is extremely necessary in the sphere of education. This moral standard is deficient today. It is lacking in the present educational system also. You are to create a new social order. Therefore, you should first acquire more and more knowledge in different spheres of life and also you are to upgrade your morality. Along with your intellectual standard, if you have morality, then everybody will respect you. Try to acquire as much knowledge as possible through our own books. Education which leads to the acquisition of knowledge plus morality makes for a peaceful society." (Sarkar, P. R., ''Discourses on Neo– humanist Education''.).</ref>
* '''Culture''': In his discourse "Talks on Prout", given in Ranchi on July 1961, Sarkar makes a distinction between the terms "culture" and "customs". According to Sarkar "culture... is the collective name for different expressions of life..." but "...all of society has the same culture. There are local variations in the mode or state of cultural expression, but the expression is universal... These local variations are called customs... Thus local modes of expression bearing local or group specialities are customs, but the expression itself is culture. Therefore it is a mistake to readjust boundaries on the basis of language and culture. Indian culture and the culture of the world are one and the same."{{sfn|Sarkar|1968}} The philosophy of Sarkar reinterprets the general concept of culture by inserting it into a new universalistic outlook. As described by Antonello Maggipinto:
{{Quote|''...If the term “culture” is usually referred to the original meaning of this word (i.e. from the Greek "paidéia" to the Latin "humanitas", that is to human beings capable of distinguishably mastering the arts, rhetoric, and philosophy), then Sarkar offers a new point of view, with a large universalistic explanation: “the culture of the whole human race is one, but marked by different local manifestations... it is the same, but varying in expression." (Sarkar, P.R., 1987)...''{{sfn|Maggipinto|2000}}}}
* '''[[Progressive utilization theory|PROUT]]''' ("[[Progressivism|Progressive]] Utilization [[Theory]]"): is a [[Socioeconomics|socio-economic]] theory first mentioned in 1959 by P. R. Sarkar<ref>{{cite book |title=Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Sociology of knowledge to Zaroastrianism |editor-first=Edward |editor-last=Craig |editor-link=Edward Craig (philosopher) |publisher= Routledge (Taylor & Francis) |year=1998 |isbn=0-415-16916-X}}</ref> in his speech "The Cosmic Brotherood".<ref>Later published in Sarkar, P. R. (1961-2001) p. 89-97.</ref> In 1968, Sarkar founded the organization "[[Proutist Block of India]]" (PBI), to further the ideals of his theory through political and social action.{{sfn|Fukui|1985|p=357}}


=== ''Tantra'' in ''Ananda Marga'' ===
Without the yogic code of ethics, ''yama-niyama'', ''sádhaná'' is impossible. Hence, ''yama-niyama'' must also be strictly observed.
{{quote box|width=30em|bgcolor=#c6dbf7|title=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti on ''tantrics'' and ''tantric'' cult |align=left|quote=""A person who, irrespective of [[caste]], [[creed]] or religion, aspires for spiritual expansion or does something concrete, is a ''Tantric''. ''Tantra' in itself is neither a religion nor an 'ism'. ''Tantra'' is a fundamental spiritual science. So wherever there is any spiritual practice it should be taken for granted that it stands on the Tantric cult. Where there is no spiritual practice, where people pray to God for the fulfilment of narrow worldly desires, where people’s only slogan is “Give us this and give us that” – only there do we find that Tantra is discouraged. So only those who do not understand Tantra, or even after understanding Tantra do not want to do any spiritual practice, oppose the cult of Tantra."|source=Shrii Shrii Anandamurti´s "Tantra and its Effect on Society", 1959.{{sfn|Anandamurti|1959}}}}
Sarkar weaves continuity with the ancient philosophy of ''Tantra'', infusing new insights in [[Psychology|human psychology]], [[social theory]] and in each individuals' [[role]]s as spiritual and "socio-economic-cultural-political" beings.
''Ánanda Márga Tantra'' has a broad [[Metaphysics|metaphysical]] base which allows for ways of [[Knowledge|knowing]], [[feeling]] and [[Process (science)|processing]] which go far beyond [[Intellect|intelectuality]] or limited [[rationality]]. Priorities are given to the spiritual development, as Shrii Shrii Ánandamúrti notes, "spiritual life controls all other arenas of human life."<ref>[http://www.gurukul.edu Bussey, Marcus. ''Homo Tantricus: Tantra as an Episteme for Future Generations'']</ref>
''Ananda Marga Tantra'' is a [[principle]], a science which if practiced will lead to the desired objective. The [[essence]] of ''Tantra'' is to awaken the latent spiritual force in the human personality and unify oneself with the Cosmic Consciousness.<ref group=note>"It is not a religion or empty philosophy which can be confined to the realms of abstract speculation or theoretical debate. Tantra is a process of subjective transformation, which may be practiced by anyone irrespective of gender, cultural background, education, social status or intellectual evolution, as an adequate system of spiritual endeavor is the birthright of all. ''Tantra'' does not discriminate by any racial, genealogical, political, national or economic differences amongst human beings, as the later might form the basis for one human group to assert superiority over another. ''Tantra'' does, however, give recognition to individual vigor and the development of latent human potentialities, which make some people outstand in their lives. Consequently ''Tantra'' puts greater emphasis on human values than on social values".(Coyle, G. 1985).</ref>


=== ''Guru'' and Disciple ===
This practice enables self-realization, attainment of perfection or oneness with the Supreme.
According to ''tantric'' tradition a proper [[preceptor]] and a proper disciple are both essential for success on the path of ''Tantra''.
 
P.R. Sarkar clearly explains<ref>See: Shrii Shrii Anandamurti, 1982 and 1994.</ref> that, disciples are of three categories: 1) disciples that acquire spiritual knowledge when they are in close contact with the preceptor, but as soon as they are apart from him they forget all his/her teachings, 2) disciples that learn many things from the preceptor with great hardship, but do not take proper care to preserve those instructions. They lose their hard-earned knowledge out of negligence, 3)disciples that carefully preserves deep in their minds and hearts whatever they have learned from their preceptor by wisely putting those teachings into practice. This is the best category of disciples.
=== Sanctity of ideal ===
{{Quote box|width=220px|bgcolor=#c6dbf7|align=right|quote=''Fight for your ideology. Be one with your ideology. Live for your ideology. Die for your ideology.''<ref>{{cite book|title=[[Ananda Vanii Samgraha|Ánanda Váńii Saḿgraha]] |last={{aut|[[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Anandamurti]]}}|first={{aut|[[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Shrii Shrii]]}} |location=Kolkata |publisher= Ananda Marga Publications |year=1996}}.</ref><br />Shrii Shrii Anandamurti}}
Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of one's personal ideal (''Iśt́a''). In this context, the personal ideal is always ''Paramapuruśa'' (Supreme Consciousness), reflected through the form of Guru.
 
This practice strengthens one's topmost ''cakras'' (''gurucakra'' and ''sahasrára''), and it amplifies the projection of ''Iśt́a'' on society.
 
=== Sanctity of ideology ===
Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of ideology (''ádarsha''). In this context, ideology is the reflection in the mind of inspiration flowing from soul (''átmá''). Ideology determines how a spiritual aspirant lives in this world.
 
This practice eliminates cynicism and despair, and it elevates the social mentality.
 
=== Sanctity of conduct rules ===
{{Quote box|width=220px|bgcolor=#c6dbf7|align=right|quote='''''Supreme Direction'''<br />Those who perform sádhaná twice a day regularly, the thought of Paramapuruśa will certainly arise in their mind at the time of death; their liberation is surely attained. Thus every Ánanda Margii must do sádhaná twice a day. This is the direction of Paramapuruśa. Without yama-niyama, sádhaná is impossible. Hence it is also the direction of Paramapuruśa to follow yama-niyama. Disregard this direction and one may have to suffer the torments of animal life for millions and millions of years. So that no one will undergo such suffering, so that
everyone might come to eternal peace under the loving shelter of Paramapuruśa, it is the binding duty of every Ánanda Margii to endeavor to bring all to the Ánanda Marga path of welfare. Giving guidance to others about the way of righteousness is an inseparable part of sádhaná.
''<ref group=note>This version is a recent translation from the original Bengali (''Caram Nirdesh'' চরম নির্দেশ)</ref><br />Shrii Shrii Anandamurti}}
 
Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of conduct rules. For a spiritual aspirant, uplifting conduct rules are the greatest wealth.
 
This practice provides the physical and mental capacity for doing great deeds in this world. It also provides a powerful and consistent example for others to follow.
 
=== Sanctity of the Supreme Direction ===
Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of the [[Supreme Direction]]. The Supreme Direction sets out the essence of Ananda Marga and what it means to be an Ananda Margii.
 
This practice ensures success in spiritual life. It also connects the individual with all other beings in the spirit of service and blessedness.
 
=== Dharmacakra ===
{{See also|Dharmacakra}}
In Ananda Marga, ''dharmacakra'' is the combined force of yogiis operating as one, especially in meditation. When in good health, attendance at the weekly dharmacakra is a must.
 
This practice accelerates personal spiritual progress, and it creates a powerful, collective mental force for solving all problems of the world.
 
=== Oaths ===
After waking, remember with resolve the vows taken at the time of initiation as well as any other tantric vows taken, for example, marriage vows.
 
This practice inspires greater and more subtle creativity. It benefits both the individual and society through the resultant service.
 
=== CSDK (conduct rules in detail, seminars, duty, kiirtana) ===
[[Image:Kiirtana.png|thumb|220px|right|upright|Kiirtana with the universal mantra of Ananda Marga, ''Bábá Nam Kevalam'' (meaning "only His name").]]
This point has four parts:
* Follow all conduct rules in detail, as laid out in ''[[Ananda Marga Caryacarya|Caryácarya]]''.
* Attend seminars, and also give seminars on Ananda Marga practices and philosophy.
* Accept a service-related duty, and carry out the responsibility sincerely.
* Do more and more ''[[Kiirtan|kiirtana]]''.
 
This practice enhances the expression of the four propensities controlled at the lowermost energy center, the ''múládhára cakra'': ''káma'' (psycho-physical longing), ''artha'' (psychic longing), ''dharma'' (psycho-spiritual longing), and ''mokśa'' (spiritual longing)


==References==
==References==
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=== Citations ===
=== Citations ===
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{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
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{{refend}}


=== Sources ===
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{{refend}}


== Further reading ==
== Further reading ==
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* {{cite book|title=Neo-Humanist Ecology |author=Acarya Prasiidananda Avadhuta |year=1990 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=971-8623-12-4}}
* {{cite book|title=Neo-Humanist Ecology |author=Acarya Prasiidananda Avadhuta |year=1990 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=971-8623-12-4}}
* {{cite book|title=Neo-humanist Education: Education for a New World |author= Avadhūtika Ānanda Mitra Ācāryā |year= 1986 | publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=0-88476-007-3}}
* {{cite book|title=Neo-humanist Education: Education for a New World |author= Avadhūtika Ānanda Mitra Ācāryā |year= 1986 | publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=0-88476-007-3}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananada Marga Caryacarya, part 1 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1995-6th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=81–7252–028–X}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 1 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1995-6th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=978-8172520281}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananada Marga Caryacarya, part 2 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1987-4th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 2 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1987-4th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=978-8172521530}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananada Marga Caryacarya, part 3 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1992-4th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=81–7252–154–5}}
* {{cite book|title=Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 3 |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |year=1992-4th ed. |publisher=''Ananda Marga'' Publications |ISBN=978-8172521547}}
* {{cite book|title=Ánanda Sútram |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=81– 7252– 027– 1}}
* {{cite book|title=Ánanda Sútram |last=Anandamurti |first=Shrii Shrii |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1961 |ISBN=978-8172520274}}
* Nandita, & Devadatta. (1971). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/1954270&referer=brief_results Path of bliss: Ananda Marga yoga]. Wichita, Kan: Ananda Marga Publishers.
* Nandita, & Devadatta. (1971). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/1954270&referer=brief_results Path of Bliss: Ananda Marga Yoga]. Wichita, Kan: Ananda Marga Publishers.
* Hatley, Shaman and Inayatullah, Sohail. (1999),"Karma Samnyasa: Sarkar’s reconceptualization of Indian ascetism”, in K. Ishwaran, ed., Ascetic culture: renunciation and worldly engagement (Leiden, Brill,Vol. 73, International Studies in Sociology and Social Anthropology),139-152
* Hatley, Shaman and Inayatullah, Sohail. (1999),"Karma Samnyasa: Sarkar’s reconceptualization of Indian ascetism”, in K. Ishwaran, ed., Ascetic culture: renunciation and worldly engagement (Leiden, Brill,Vol. 73, International Studies in Sociology and Social Anthropology),139-152
* Inayatullah, Sohail. (2002) Understanding Sarkar: The Indian Episteme, Macrohistory and Transformative Knowledge. Leiden: Brill.
* Inayatullah, Sohail. (2002) Understanding Sarkar: The Indian Episteme, Macrohistory and Transformative Knowledge. Leiden: Brill.
* Tarak. (1990). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/27387128&referer=brief_results Ananda Marga, social and spiritual practices]. Calcutta: Ananda Marga Publications.
* Tarak. (1990). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/27387128&referer=brief_results Ananda Marga, social and spiritual practices]. Calcutta: Ananda Marga Publications.
* [[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii]]. (1988). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/25872096&referer=brief_results ''Ananda Marga'' ideology and way of life in a nutshell]. Calcutta: ''Ānanda Mārga Pracāraka Saṁgha''.
* Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1988). [http://worldcatlibraries.org/oclc/25872096&referer=brief_results ''Ananda Marga'' ideology and way of life in a nutshell]. Calcutta: ''Ānanda Mārga Pracāraka Saṁgha''.
* {{cite book|title=Problems of the Day |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Rainjan |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1957-1968 |ISBN=81-7252-019-0}}
* {{cite book|title=Problems of the Day |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Ranjan |location=Jamalpur |publisher= Ananda Marga Pubs |year=1957-1968 |ISBN=81-7252-019-0}}
* {{cite book|title=Idea and Ideology |author=[[Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar|Sarkar, Prabhat Rainjan]] (Ac. Pranavnanda Avt. Editor) |location=Kolkata |year=1961-2001 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |isbn=81-7252-205-3}}
* {{cite book|title=Idea and Ideology |author=Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (Ac. Pranavananda Avt. Editor) |location=Kolkata |year=1961-2001 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |isbn=81-7252-205-3}}
* {{cite book|title=Yogic Treatments and Natural Remedies |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Rainjan |year=1957 first ed. in Bengali, 1983 first ed. in English |location=Jamalpur/Calcutta |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=81–7252–178–2}}
* {{cite book|title=Yogic Treatments and Natural Remedies |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Ranjan |year=1957 first ed. in Bengali, 1983 first ed. in English |location=Jamalpur/Calcutta |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |ISBN=978-8172520250}}
* {{cite book|title=The Liberation of Intellect: Neohumanism |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Rainjan |year=1982 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=81–7252–168–5}}
* {{cite book|title=The Liberation of Intellect: Neohumanism |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Ranjan |year=1982 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=978-8172521684}}
* {{cite book|title=Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 1 |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Rainjan |year=1987 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=81-7252-184-7}}
* {{cite book|title=Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 1 |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Ranjan |year=1987 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=81-7252-184-7}}
* {{cite book|title=Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 2 |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Rainjan |year=1987 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=81-7252-184-7}}
* {{cite book|title=Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 2 |last=Sarkar |first=Prabhat Ranjan |year=1987 |publisher=Ananda Marga Publications |location=Kolkata |ISBN=81-7252-184-7}}
{{refend}}
{{refend}}


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* [http://www.anandamarga.net/ ''Ananda Marga''.net]
* [http://www.anandamarga.net/ ''Ananda Marga''.net]
* [http://am-bhagavatadharma.com/ ''Ananda Marga Bhagavatadharma'']
* [http://am-bhagavatadharma.com/ ''Ananda Marga Bhagavatadharma'']
* [http://www.amaye.org/ "''Ananda Marga'' Association of ''Yoga'' Educators" (AMAYE)]
 
* [http://www.amurt.org "''Ananda Marga'' Universal Relief Team" (AMURT)]
[[Category:Nonliterary works of Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar]]
 
[[fr:Ananda Marga]]

Latest revision as of 13:31, 8 February 2022

Ananda Marga
Am image.png
Abbreviation AM
Motto Átmamokśárthaḿ Jagaddhitáyaca (liberation of self and service to all)
Founder(s) Shrii Shrii Anandamurti
Type Spiritual path
Headquarters Anandanagar
Region served Worldwide
Membership Private persons
Website www.anandamarga.org
Location in Sarkarverse
SVmap NonliteraryWorks.png

Ananda Marga (Ánanda Márga or Ānanda Mārga in Roman Sanskrit transliterations, आनन्द मार्ग in Hindi script and আনন্দ মার্গ in Bengali script), meaning "The Path of Bliss", also spelled Anand Marg and Ananda Marg) is the comprehensive spiritual path (set of spiritually based or spiritually oriented practices) prescribed by Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar aka Shrii Shrii Anandamurti.[note 1] At his direction, all personal instruction in these practices (including yoga exercises and meditation) must always be provided free of charge.

History

On 1939 August 2, (at 8:30 pm, on the full moon day of Shravani[note 2] Purnima[note 3]), Sarkar imparted tantric initiation to Kalicharan Bandyopadhyay (after aka Kalikananda Avadhuta) at the Kashi Mitra Ghát́ on the bank of the Bhagirathi river in Kolkata (aka Calcutta or Kalikata), West Bengal, India. This was the start of Sarkar's formal teaching. Sarkar was 18 years old at the time. From 1941 until 1954, Sarkar continued teaching the yogic techniques of tantra[note 4] to a select few in Jamalpur (in Bihar, India), while employed as an accountant of the Indian Railways. In 1955, Sarkar founded the Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha, taking on the role of its first president. Sarkar then resigned from his job with the Indian Railways to dedicate his full-time to that mission. From 1955 until his death in 1990, Sarkar not only went on expanding the scope and global penetration of the Samgha, but he also continuously amplified the teachings and practices of his Ananda Marga. Among other things, in the course of those 35 years, he produced over 200 books on a wide range of topics, he extensively expounded his social theory (PROUT), he set forth his ultra-positive social outlook (Neohumanism), and he composed 5,018 songs (Prabhat Samgiita). To promote his Ananda Marga, Sarkar created a cadre of spiritual teachers, known as tattvikas and acaryas. Those teachers who became renunciates were initiated by Sarkar into the Shaivite order of avadhuta.

Unlike most other tantric or yogic missions, Ananda Marga has only one Guru, Shrii Shrii Anandamurti. After his demise, the role of Marga Gurudeva was not passed on to a successor. Hence, the fundamental philosophy and practices of Ananda Marga are largely fixed.

Conceptual framework

Just as the eight-fold path of Buddhism is inspired by what Buddhists refer to as the Four Noble Truths, Ananda Marga is also guided by a well-developed conceptual framework. This is set out in the five chapters of Sarkar's Ananda Sutram.[1]

In philosophical terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is best described as advaetadvaetádvaetaváda (non-dualistic dualistic non-dualism).[2] Originally and ultimately, everything is the singular consciousness.

In psychological terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is positive and optimistic. In a nutshell:

  1. The desire for sukha (happiness) is the primary drive of living beings.
  2. Only establishment in ánanda (unlimited happiness or bliss) can satisfy all thirsts.
  3. The unlimited is a singular, supreme entity (Brahma), beyond physical and psychic constraints.
  4. Consciously striving for attainment of the Supreme is dharma sádhaná (self-actualization).

According to Sarkar, when a conscious desire for liberation or perfection arises in the mind, one attains the sadguru (unfailing spiritual guide).[3]

In practical terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is rational and pragmatic. Ananda Marga rejects dogma and ritualistic worship, including religious prayer, in favor of subjective approach through objective adjustment.[4] To enhance devotion (love for the Supreme), Ananda Marga prescribes various yogic and tantric practices for physical, mental, and spiritual development, which Sarkar encapsulated in his Sixteen Points.[note 5]

In social terms, the stance of Ananda Marga is unifying. Ananda Marga sees a happy blending of individual and collective welfare. In the final analysis, the welfare of the individual depends on the welfare of the collectivity and vice versa.[5] To materialize a progressive society in which this condition is recognized and materialized, Sarkar introduced his Progressive Utilization Theory and Neohumanism.

Discipline

Yama-Niyama
Yama (Restraint)
Ahiḿsá (Benignity) Thinking, speaking, and acting without inflicting pain or harm on another
Satya (Benevolence) Thinking and speaking with goodwill
Asteya
(Honesty)		 Not taking or keeping what belongs to others
Brahmacarya (Ideation) Constant mental association with the Supreme
Aparigraha (Frugality) Non-indulgence in superfluous amenities
Niyama (Regulation)
Shaoca (Cleanliness) Physical and mental purity, both internal and external
Santośa (Contentment) Maintaining a state of mental ease
Tapah
(Sacrifice)		 Acceptance of sufferings to reach the spiritual goal
Svádhyáya (Contemplation) Clear understanding of any spiritual subject
Iishvara Prańidhána (Dedication) Adopting the Cosmic Controller as the only ideal of life and moving with ever-accelerating speed toward that Desideratum
Intent is primary, but both intent and action should conform if possible.
See also: Sixteen Points

The practical discipline (cult) of Ananda Marga consists of sixteen elements and is hence commonly referred to as the Sixteen Points. In their original order, these sixteen points pertain to the following subjects:[6]

  1. Excretion
  2. Genitalia
  3. Hair
  4. Underwear
  5. Constant cleanliness
  6. Bath
  7. Food
  8. Fasting
  9. Sádhaná (spiritual endeavor)
  10. Sanctity of ideal
  11. Sanctity of ideology
  12. Sanctity of conduct rules
  13. Sanctity of the Supreme Direction
  14. Dharmacakra
  15. Vows
  16. CSDK (conduct rules in detail, seminars, duty, kiirtana)

Excretion

After urination, a little water is to be poured over the urinary organ or area. When outside the home, a small container of water (shaoca manjusa) is to be carried to ensure that this cleanliness practice may be maintained. (This is in addition to the common practice of cleanliness after defecation.)

This practice helps in the excretion of any urine remaining in the bladder after urination, thereby reducing the likelihood of kidney stones. The practice also reduces unwanted stimulation of the genitalia.

Genitalia

Males should ensure that the foreskin remains pulled back and that the area that would have been covered remains clean. If need be, a minor operation may be performed to enlarge the circumference of the foreskin. Females should maintain regular cleanliness of the genital areas covered by the labia. There is no need or desirability for any form of female circumcision.

This practice maintains a high standard of cleanliness of the genital area, reducing unwanted stimulation of the genitalia as well as the likelihood of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Hair

Joint hair (under the arms and in the crotch) should be maintained (not cut or plucked). This hair should be cleaned daily. A little bit of oil should be applied afterwards, and the hair may be combed.

This practice helps to regulate the vital energies (práńáh). It strengthens the nervous system by maintaining a balance of body heat. The oil also serves as a natural deodorant.

Underwear

Wear appropriate underwear. For men, this means a special loincloth, called a langota. For women, this means panties and brassiere (or tight-fitting vest).

This practice protects the sexual organs and prevents unnecessary stimulation of those organs, thereby reducing the sexual drive and enabling higher expressions of love that originate at the anáhata cakra.

Constant cleanliness

Before meditation, meals, and sleep, perform vyápaka shaoca (half-bath). This is done by first washing (with water) the genital area, second hands up to elbows and legs up to knees; then, taking a mouthful of water, splash water on the eyes and face at least twelve times. Finally wash the ears and the neck. If your stomach is empty, you may also do násápána (flushing the nostrils with water).

This practice gives a sense of freshness and energy, lowers blood pressure, and improves eyesight.

Bath

See also: Bathing Procedure and Pitr Yajina
Bath mantra

Take a full bath at least once a day. In a very hot climate, take a full bath at least twice a day. Before drying the body, face the sun or a bright light, and perform the bath mantra (pitr yajiṋa). The associated gestures express the spirit of the mantra while ensuring that the rays of light are absorbed evenly throughout the upper torso.

This practice amplifies the benefits of half-bath and promotes humility and spirituality.

Food

See also: Procedure for Eating

Both body and mind require food. Hence, food may be either carbonic or non-carbonic. In both cases, appropriate food should be consumed.

The three categories of food are:

  • Sáttvika – Sentient (good for both body and mind)
  • Rájasika – Mutative (good for either the body or mind and neutral for the other)
  • Támasika – Static (bad for either the body or mind)

The rule is to eat in moderation, preferring sáttvika food and avoiding támasika food. It should also be kept in mind that there may be some variations from person to person and climate to climate.

This practice strengthens both body and mind. It also enables the second stage of neohumanism, spirituality as a principle.

Fasting

Main article: Fasting
See also: Procedure for Fasting

When in good health, observe a complete fast on the appropriate fasting days. For householders, the fasting days are the eleventh day (ekádashii) after both the new moon (amávasyá) and the full moon (púrńimá). For renunciates, the fasting days are ekádashii, amávasyá, and púrńimá. In other words, householders fast twice in a lunar month, and renunciates fast four times in a lunar month. The extra time and attention from not eating should be dedicated to contemplation of the Supreme (upavása, living near the Lord).

Meditation and asanas.

This practice gives the digestive system a complete rest and protects against the loss of mental equilibrium.

Sadhana (spiritual endeavor)

Practice the meditation techniques (collectively referred to as sádhaná, spiritual endeavor), learned from one's ácárya, at least twice a day regularly. If one has also been given ásanas (yogic postures), those too should be practiced twice daily, unless otherwise instructed. (Preferably, ásanas are performed after meditation rather than before it.)

Without the yogic code of ethics, yama-niyama, sádhaná is impossible. Hence, yama-niyama must also be strictly observed.

This practice enables self-realization, attainment of perfection or oneness with the Supreme.

Sanctity of ideal

Fight for your ideology. Be one with your ideology. Live for your ideology. Die for your ideology.[7]
Shrii Shrii Anandamurti

Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of one's personal ideal (Iśt́a). In this context, the personal ideal is always Paramapuruśa (Supreme Consciousness), reflected through the form of Guru.

This practice strengthens one's topmost cakras (gurucakra and sahasrára), and it amplifies the projection of Iśt́a on society.

Sanctity of ideology

Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of ideology (ádarsha). In this context, ideology is the reflection in the mind of inspiration flowing from soul (átmá). Ideology determines how a spiritual aspirant lives in this world.

This practice eliminates cynicism and despair, and it elevates the social mentality.

Sanctity of conduct rules

Supreme Direction
Those who perform sádhaná twice a day regularly, the thought of Paramapuruśa will certainly arise in their mind at the time of death; their liberation is surely attained. Thus every Ánanda Margii must do sádhaná twice a day. This is the direction of Paramapuruśa. Without yama-niyama, sádhaná is impossible. Hence it is also the direction of Paramapuruśa to follow yama-niyama. Disregard this direction and one may have to suffer the torments of animal life for millions and millions of years. So that no one will undergo such suffering, so that everyone might come to eternal peace under the loving shelter of Paramapuruśa, it is the binding duty of every Ánanda Margii to endeavor to bring all to the Ánanda Marga path of welfare. Giving guidance to others about the way of righteousness is an inseparable part of sádhaná. [note 6]
Shrii Shrii Anandamurti

Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of conduct rules. For a spiritual aspirant, uplifting conduct rules are the greatest wealth.

This practice provides the physical and mental capacity for doing great deeds in this world. It also provides a powerful and consistent example for others to follow.

Sanctity of the Supreme Direction

Maintain noncompromising strictness and faith regarding the sanctity of the Supreme Direction. The Supreme Direction sets out the essence of Ananda Marga and what it means to be an Ananda Margii.

This practice ensures success in spiritual life. It also connects the individual with all other beings in the spirit of service and blessedness.

Dharmacakra

See also: Dharmacakra

In Ananda Marga, dharmacakra is the combined force of yogiis operating as one, especially in meditation. When in good health, attendance at the weekly dharmacakra is a must.

This practice accelerates personal spiritual progress, and it creates a powerful, collective mental force for solving all problems of the world.

Oaths

After waking, remember with resolve the vows taken at the time of initiation as well as any other tantric vows taken, for example, marriage vows.

This practice inspires greater and more subtle creativity. It benefits both the individual and society through the resultant service.

CSDK (conduct rules in detail, seminars, duty, kiirtana)

Kiirtana with the universal mantra of Ananda Marga, Bábá Nam Kevalam (meaning "only His name").

This point has four parts:

  • Follow all conduct rules in detail, as laid out in Caryácarya.
  • Attend seminars, and also give seminars on Ananda Marga practices and philosophy.
  • Accept a service-related duty, and carry out the responsibility sincerely.
  • Do more and more kiirtana.

This practice enhances the expression of the four propensities controlled at the lowermost energy center, the múládhára cakra: káma (psycho-physical longing), artha (psychic longing), dharma (psycho-spiritual longing), and mokśa (spiritual longing)

References

Footnotes

  1. ^ Ánandamúrti, as he was called by his early disciples, is a Saḿmskrta word meaning "Bliss personified".
  2. ^ Shravan is the fifth month of the Indian lunar calendar, beginning in late July and ending in the third week of August. It is the month of festivals, commemorating the precedence of the sacred over all aspects of life.
  3. ^ Shravani Purnima is the full moon in the month of Shravan.
  4. ^ P.R. Sarkar clearly explained in his books the meaning of Tantra: "What is Tantra? The process of transforming (latent divinity) into the Supreme Divinity is known as Tantra sadhana... The significance of the term tantra is 'liberation from bondage (the bondage of dullness or staticity)'. The letter ta is the seed (sound) of dulness. And the root verb trae suffixed by da becomes tra, which means 'that which liberates' - so the spiritual practice which liberates the aspirant from the dullness or animality of the static force and expands the aspirant's (spiritual) self is Tantra sadhana. So there cannot be any spiritual practice without Tantra. Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (Ac. Vijayananda Avt. Editor) (1994) Discourses on Tantra 2 AMPS-Ananda Printers  "Tantra in itself is neither a religion nor an 'ism'. Tantra is a fundamental spiritual science. So wherever there is any spiritual practice it should be taken for granted that it stands on the Tantric cult. Where there is no spiritual practice, where people pray to God for the fulfillment of narrow worldly desires, where people's only slogan is "Give us this and give us that" – only there do we find that Tantra is discouraged. So only those who do not understand Tantra, or even after understanding Tantra do not want to do any spiritual practice, oppose the cult of Tantra." (Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii, 1959).
  5. ^ Sarkar formulated his Sixteen Points in 1971 about a month before his arrest on December 29.
  6. ^ This version is a recent translation from the original Bengali (Caram Nirdesh চরম নির্দেশ)

Citations

  1. ^ Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (1961) Ánanda Sútram Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 978-8172520274 
  2. ^ Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (Ac. Pranavananda Avt. Editor, Ac. Vijayananda Avt. transl. from Bengali) (1981-1th ed. and followings), Namami Krsnasundaram, Kolkata: Ananda Marga Pracaraka Samgha, ISBN 978-8172521110 
  3. ^ Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (1961) Ánanda Sútram Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 978-8172520274 
  4. ^ Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (1961) Ánanda Sútram Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 978-8172520274 
  5. ^ Shrii Shrii Anandamurti (1961) Ánanda Sútram Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 978-8172520274 
  6. ^ Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1987-4th ed.) Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 2 Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172521530 
  7. ^ Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1996) Ánanda Váńii Saḿgraha Kolkata: Ananda Marga Publications .

Sources

Further reading

  • Ananda Marga Aa. Vv. (1973, 2nd ed.) Teaching asanas: An Ananda Marga manual for teacher Los Altos Hills: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 0-88476-000-6 
  • Acarya Prasiidananda Avadhuta (1990) Neo-Humanist Ecology Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 971-8623-12-4 
  • Avadhūtika Ānanda Mitra Ācāryā (1986) Neo-humanist Education: Education for a New World Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 0-88476-007-3 
  • Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1995-6th ed.) Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 1 Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172520281 
  • Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1987-4th ed.) Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 2 Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172521530 
  • Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1992-4th ed.) Ananda Marga Caryacarya Part 3 Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172521547 
  • Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1961) Ánanda Sútram Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 978-8172520274 
  • Nandita, & Devadatta. (1971). Path of Bliss: Ananda Marga Yoga. Wichita, Kan: Ananda Marga Publishers.
  • Hatley, Shaman and Inayatullah, Sohail. (1999),"Karma Samnyasa: Sarkar’s reconceptualization of Indian ascetism”, in K. Ishwaran, ed., Ascetic culture: renunciation and worldly engagement (Leiden, Brill,Vol. 73, International Studies in Sociology and Social Anthropology),139-152
  • Inayatullah, Sohail. (2002) Understanding Sarkar: The Indian Episteme, Macrohistory and Transformative Knowledge. Leiden: Brill.
  • Tarak. (1990). Ananda Marga, social and spiritual practices. Calcutta: Ananda Marga Publications.
  • Anandamurti, Shrii Shrii (1988). Ananda Marga ideology and way of life in a nutshell. Calcutta: Ānanda Mārga Pracāraka Saṁgha.
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (1957-1968) Problems of the Day Jamalpur: Ananda Marga Pubs ISBN 81-7252-019-0 
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (Ac. Pranavananda Avt. Editor) (1961-2001) Idea and Ideology Kolkata: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 81-7252-205-3 
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (1957 first ed. in Bengali, 1983 first ed. in English) Yogic Treatments and Natural Remedies Jamalpur/Calcutta: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172520250 
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (1982) The Liberation of Intellect: Neohumanism Kolkata: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 978-8172521684 
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (1987) Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 1 Kolkata: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 81-7252-184-7 
  • Sarkar, Prabhat Ranjan (1987) Neohumanism in a Nutshell, vol. 2 Kolkata: Ananda Marga Publications ISBN 81-7252-184-7 

External links

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