SRI SRI SRI GANAPATHI SACHCHIDANANDA ASHRAM DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER

1. SRI SRI SRI GANAPATHI SACHCHIDANANDA ASHRAM DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER Datta Drive, Orange Field Road, Carapichaima, Trinidad, West Indies. A Unique Retreat – A Holistic Center

2. SRI SRI GANAPATHI SACHCHIDANANDA ASHRAM - DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER - A UNIQUE RETREAT – A HOLISTIC CENTER Nestled amongst the Caroni plains of Trinidad is a haven of tranquil beauty, a place where the mind melts into peace and silence. Here the splendour of South Indian Dravidian architecture lends a splendour of the East to the charm of the Caribbean. Come and enjoy the ambience of the divine energy that pervades the air. Birds chirp merrily in the early mornings and at sunset, as though beckoning us to prayers. From the laps of Mother Earth an eighty five (85’) foot Hanuman murti stands tall against the rising and setting sun of this tropical island. His gigantic form summons courage and strength from the depths of the human spirit. Simply sit for awhile and imbibe the serenity, or take a walk to rejuvenate yourself. The world renowned spiritual teacher Sri GanapathiSachchidananda has created this idyllic setting. It is his Divine Will to establish in a single place, a home where people from all walks of life can experience peace, acquire knowledge, participate in spiritual practices, yoga classes and contribute to the various social and charitable activities, such as the free pre-school, school-feeding programme, free medical clinic and maintenance of this pilgrimage Center. Thus, even the visiting tourist is able to uplift himself and enjoy the blessings of this holy place. Those who would stay with us for a longer while can participate in the yoga classes, meditate to music for meditation and healing, join in daily prayers and services, contribute to the Annadanna trust (food served at the end of services), join in hindi and other classes for the youths. Sri Swamiji has established a retreat in the heights of Cerro del Aripo! There you will find amid the lush, green equatioral forest a haven for the eco-lover. Have a bath in the clear, sparkling, cool waters of the Aripo river while you enjoy the picturesque landscape. Or journey to the heartland of the south where a smaller Center specially dedicated to Lord Dattatreya (the Hindu Trinity in a single form) is found in the friendly vicinity of Princes Town. The sick and suffering will receive great benefits here. We extend our hands and hearts and welcome you to Trinidad to our most special sacred and healing Centers. Come share in our happiness. When you leave, you will take with you some of the peace and special energy found here. Face the challenges of your daily life with renewed vigour and courage!

3. DRAVIDIAN ARCHITECTURE HOW IT RELATES TO YOU The year 2001 was a landmark year for Trinidad. Sixteen (16) sculptors from South India journeyed to our shores to start their artistic and engineering feat of creating the 85’ form of Hanuman and producing a masterpiece of Dravidian temple architecture that now grace our beautiful island. Ornate elephants (a sign of auspiciousness) and two beautifully sculpted dancers welcome visitors at the northern entrance of the temple. In its crown are carved celestial musician who play the divine instruments. Music is a central part of all festivities held here. Our human body is considered a temple. Energy flows in this temple through the 74,000 astral nerves. Above your head is the energy center where the divinity resides and through which the energy enters your body. The temple design is of a similar nature, the shikara or crown of each shrine being the focal point of the flow of energy. This energy is then directed into the different forms within the inner shrine. Thus, direct benefits can be felt by sitting and meditating at the various shrines. The architect designed the temple of the Datta Yoga Center with four shrines. Each shrine closely resembles a human body and is crowned by a vimana (shikara). The vimana is decorated with intricate images which are infused with life energy. The Sanctum Sanctorum (head) is the inner recess of the shrine and the inner gate (the lower limb). The spine (gopuram ) on the outer gate is the foot of the Lord. You need not even enter the temple but contemplate on the gopuram to derive blessings. Interspersed in the temple halls are carved pillars that give support to the structure. The internal ceiling is bedecked with lotus flowers and other designs which appear as gems dropping from the heavens. If you are an artist or engineer then you must visit the Datta Yoga Centre to appreciate the remarkable structures and architecture.

4. A PLACE WHERE YOU WILL RECEIVE COURAGE, PROTECTION AND HELP IN FAMILY PROBLEMS In 2001 His Holiness Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji gave instructions to construct this eighty five foot (85’) form of Hanuman in Trinidad. Hanuman is the protector of the Earth. In this turbulent world His energy is there to help you to overcome difficulties you encounter in daily life. In 2002 the mammoth task of constructing this monument began. Each stage of the construction was infused with energy. Many people through their love and devotion to Hanuman and the Swamiji poured out their hearts to bring Hanuman to life. Construction of the foundation started with offerings to Mother Earth. The steel framework was tied and continuously for six hours concrete poured into the earth. The steel frame forming the spine, arms and legs were then welded. Sacred mantras (seed sounds) were chanted as the first block was laid to form the foot of Hanuman. Fire clay blocks were used to form the body of the Hanuman. The sculptors then dexterously moulded the proportionate and magnificent Hanuman. In 2003 the grand consecration and inauguration ceremonies of Hanuman and the other shrines were conducted by His Holiness Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda. Thousands of people attended this auspicious event. What is the significance of Hanuman? Hanuman is the protector of people. He is the dispeller of fear and gives you courage. He helps you to acquire both physical and mental strength. He has the form of a monkey but his mind is not a monkey (wandering) mind. He has one pointed concentration. He represents prana (air). The breath when steady brings steadiness to the mind. Hanuman is a master of kriya yoga (Yoga of breath). Peace of mind is achieved through this type of yoga. Hanuman is a scholar in the vedas(hindu scriptures) He performs his duty and adheres to the righteous codes of conduct found in the vedas. Hanuman is an epitome of righteous service to the Lord. He was commanded by the Lord to remain on earth and give assistance to devotees when they face problems in life.

5. HANUMAN Hanuman is a great devotee of Sri Raama. He is always engaged in service of the Lotus feet of Sri Raama. He is Ciranjeevi (immortal). Sri Raama has given him the order to protect His devotees and this planet earth. Swamiji has gifted to us Kaarya Siddhi Hanuman for the protection of Trinidad and the world against negative forces including natural disasters Kaarya Siddhi Hanuman is worshipped by devotees with many problems. You can make an offering of a coconut available at the Hanuman temple (narikela prayer) to help solve family problems and for the welfare of the society and world. Hanuman gives immediate relief of critical problems with this simple offering. Abhaya Mudra: His raised hand bestows fearlessness on His devotees.

6. RAKSHA HANUMAN Swamiji instructed the sculptors from India to create Raksha Hanuman before the construction of the 85’ Kaarya Siddhi Hanumaan. Raksha Hanuman infused Trinidadians with strength of purpose and great faith throughout the project. His presence brought Hanuman Bhaktas (devotees) from all corners of Trinidad to assist in the tremendous work that was ahead. The presence of Kaarya Siddhi Hanuman is a testimony of the unity and love of Trinidadians for Hanuman that found its fulfillment through the energy of this Raksha Hanuman.

7. A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY THE PATH TO BLISS Swamiji says “In 1969 three scientist took a rocket to the moon. On the same day they performed a prayer on the moon. They have intellect, so why do they believe in God? Why? Intellect is only useful for your job. It is not bliss.” There are many spiritual disciplines that help us reunite with our own divine, blissful nature. In this age it is believed that love and devotion (bhakti yoga) is the easiest spiritual path leading to that goal. The expression of this love for the Supreme is beautifully expressed through music which appeals to the heart of men. At the center you will be treated to the soothing sounds of the Himalayas, listen to music for meditation and healing, join in bhajans (praises to the Supreme) and ancient mantras have been put to music to help balance your body, heart and mind. You must listen and have the inner experience of the music. It is the beginning of the spiritual journey. The music will stay with you and give you solace as you journey through life. Other spiritual disciplines are kriya yoga (breathing exercises) and hatha yoga (physical exercises) which are taught at the center. The kriya exercises consists of breathing exercises, asanas (special sitting postures), meditation, concentration, adherence to simple moral and spiritual codes of conduct and devotion to the Spiritual teacher. Kriya yoga awakens the centres of consciousness within your body. The exercises generate energy which burns away acquired habits (by removing the impressions etched on the mind) and allows your true blissful nature to shine. Hatha yoga exercises activate weakened glands and thus stimulate good health. The breath is also harmonized with the physical exercise during hatha yoga and this gives added benefits to the practicant. Classes are conducted free of charge every first and third Saturday of the month. All are welcome to join. You can also participate in daily pujas (prayers) on mornings and afternoons these are considered another form of spiritual discipline. Resident pundits versed in the chanting of vedic mantras and skilled in the ritualist aspect of performing pujas devotedly perform these services. They can be consulted on personal problems as well as for explanation on the reasons and benefits of doing the prayers. Those who enjoy the spiritual discipline of service to humanity (karma yoga) can inquire about the free preschool, free medical clinic, school-feeding programme, ashrama maintenance, and other social activities undertaken at the center. WHY ALL THESE DISCIPLINES? “Chanting the name of God, music, puja and yoga are helpful for our enlightenment. They help develop control. Otherwise there are so many wants…sweets…drinks….friends…marriage…unknown things. That’s why you can keep your mind always busy. If you give the mind 5 minutes rest it will give many, many problems. …Don’t be unhappy. Don’t be discouraged. Some people think, “I am alone, who will look after me? I want marriage. I want a good friend…health…wealth.” Why are you crying like that? Why are you thinking like that? He (God) gave this world. He created you. Believe His Grace is always with you in your path. He is kind. You must believe! ….Think about yourself 50%, 50% you can leave to God.” explains Swamiji.

8. MUSIC Music is the science of vibrations. Vibrations, when they recur less than 8,000 times and more than 16 times in a second, produce sounds which by their exquisite tone, if blended harmoniously, are called music. A parrot made out of sugar tastes the same whether you eat its beak, its tail or its leg, because its basic ingredient is sugar, which is sweet. Likewise, the whole universe has the sound OM as its basis. It is for this reason that those who wish to unravel the secret of creation do Omkara worship. From this eternal Omkara, emanated the seven basic tones of music. Therefore one who does sadhana (practice) in music, automatically becomes an Upasaka (worshipper) of Omkara. Listening to music also gives similar effect. It is with this purpose in mind that in the Ashrama music programmes are conducted. Swamiji renders music and believes that music is no religion, no caste, no creed, no discrimination. His style of music is based on Ragas, ancient Indian form of music which He interprets in a new way. In the locale of His Music for Meditation and Healing these is no place for harsh sounds, horror tunes, soul screeching artificial sounds and cacophony. Sounds which build up violent passions are not suggested. Through His music, He aims to achieve relaxation by soothing the 72,000 astral nerves and 14 important Nadis of the body. Thus, peace and stillness of mind are achieved. Music influences the cells, tissues and nerves of the body. Tissue breakdown, cancerous growths, skin ailments, mental problems are healed to a great extent by music. Swamiji stresses greatlly on concentration (Ekagrata) on the part of the Healer Musician and the LISTENER. Listening is a special technique. Sense control is required for “Listening”. For the true “listener” music is therapy.

9. KRIYA & HATHA YOGA Other spiritual disciplines are kriya yoga (breathing exercises) and hatha yoga (physical exercises) which are taught at the center. The kriya exercises consists of breathing exercises, asanas (special sitting postures), meditation, concentration, adherence to simple moral and spiritual codes of conduct and devotion to the Spiritual teacher. Kriya yoga awakens the centres of consciousness within your body. The exercises generate energy which burns away acquired habits (by removing the impressions etched on the mind) and allows your true blissful nature to shine. Hatha yoga exercises activate weakened glands and thus stimulate good health. The breath is also harmonized with the physical exercise during hatha yoga and this gives added benefits to the practicant. Classes are conducted free of charge every first and third Saturday of the month. All are welcome to join.

10. SOCIAL & CHARITABLE SERVICES

11. BAALA DATTA PRESCHOOL • Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive, Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temple’s compound on its eastern side. • Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families can be given free education at an early age. • At inception, the school was operated by one of the temple’s pundit, Mr. Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school and there were approximately twelve children. • As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga Center.

12. DONATION OF FOOD ANNA DHANA TRUST ANNA POORNA MANDIRAM • Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive, Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temple’s compound on its eastern side. • Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families can be given free education at an early age. • At inception, the school was operated by one of the temple’s pundit, Mr. Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school and there were approximately twelve children. • As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga Center.

13. FREE MEDICAL CLINIC • Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive, Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temple’s compound on its eastern side. • Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families can be given free education at an early age. • At inception, the school was operated by one of the temple’s pundit, Mr. Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school and there were approximately twelve children. • As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga Center.

14. PRAYERS (PUJAS & HOMA) Worship is of two types worship through a form or formless worship. Ingredients curative effect – teertam, mantras Concentration,

15. FIRE WORSHIP HOMA & POORNA HUTI • Performing rituals with fire as the focal point is termed Smaarta Agni. It is like a laboratory where many ingredients are offered into the fire to purify and energize the atmosphere. In addition the mantras (seed sounds) chanted during the offerings gives added mental and spiritual balance to the people present. There are two types of fire worship: • - Chatushpaatra (four vessels) • - Shatpaatra (six vessels) • Chatuspaatra is performed in homes for peace and is referred to as Shanti Homa. Performance of homas for a particular diety requires Shatpaatra. At the commencement of this homa one hundreds of mantras must be chanted and invocation done for each deity. Only after this is done, the worship of the particular deity or main puja can proceed. • This type of worship allows the particular deity to be worshipped directly and one obtains quick results for performing this type of ritual. • In ancient times and in parts of India even today the fire used for this worship was created directly from God and the elements, through chanting of mantras and friction produced from rocks or the use of a magnifying glass. The fire for the yagna during the consecration of Kaarya Siddhi Hanumaan was created in this manner. • POORNAHUTI • The poorna huti is offered for the enjoyments of the fruits of the homa. It consists of a coconut and other ingredients tied together in a cloth. Only coconut must be offered, no other fruit. The fibre of the coconut when removed represents the removal of sins, breaking of the coconut indicates the removal of ignorance and the water and jelly that is obtained is the knowledge.

16. DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER To achieve that yogam in the presence of divine Dattatreya. THE SHIKARA The human body is considered a temple and energy flows in this temple through the 16,000 nerves. Above the head is the energy center where the divinity resides and through which the divine energy enters the body. The temple design is of a similar nature with the shikara or crown of each shrine being the focal point of the flow of energy which is directed into the different forms. Thus, direct benefits can be felt by sitting and meditating at the various shrines.