• वाटिका निधि श्री राधेश्याम बंका 


    वाटिका निधि - श्री राधेश्याम बंका

    परिचय:

    वाटिका निधि एक प्रतिष्ठित वित्तीय संस्था है जिसकी स्थापना समाज की आर्थिक प्रगति एवं समृद्धि के उद्देश्य से की गई है। इस संस्था के प्रमुख मार्गदर्शक एवं प्रेरणास्त्रोत श्री राधेश्याम बंका हैं, जो न केवल एक सफल उद्योगपति हैं, बल्कि एक समाजसेवी, धार्मिक विचारों वाले एवं दूरदृष्टि रखने वाले व्यक्तित्व भी हैं।

    श्री राधेश्याम बंका का योगदान:

    • उन्होंने वाटिका समूह के माध्यम से अनेक क्षेत्रों में महत्वपूर्ण कार्य किए हैं, जिनमें रियल एस्टेट, वित्त, और सामाजिक सेवा प्रमुख हैं।

    • उनका उद्देश्य केवल व्यापारिक लाभ नहीं, बल्कि समाज को आत्मनिर्भर एवं समृद्ध बनाना भी रहा है।

    • उन्होंने सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्व (CSR) के अंतर्गत शिक्षा, स्वास्थ्य एवं महिला सशक्तिकरण जैसे क्षेत्रों में अनेक पहल की हैं।

    वाटिका निधि के मुख्य उद्देश्य:

    • आम जनता को सुरक्षित एवं लाभदायक वित्तीय योजनाएँ उपलब्ध कराना।

    • छोटे निवेशकों के लिए विश्वसनीय एवं पारदर्शी निवेश के अवसर प्रदान करना।

    • सामाजिक एवं आर्थिक रूप से पिछड़े वर्गों को वित्तीय रूप से सशक्त बनाना।

    विशेषताएँ:

    • पारदर्शिता और विश्वास पर आधारित संचालन

    • अनुभवी नेतृत्व एवं मजबूत प्रबंधन

    • ग्राहकों की संतुष्टि को सर्वोच्च प्राथमिकता

  • योग दर्शन का वर्णन 

    परिचय:

    योग दर्शन भारतीय दर्शन की एक प्रमुख शाखा है, जिसे महर्षि पतंजलि ने सूत्रों के रूप में संकलित किया। यह दर्शन व्यक्ति के आत्म-साक्षात्कार एवं मोक्ष की प्राप्ति के लिए शरीर, मन और आत्मा के बीच संतुलन स्थापित करने पर बल देता है। योग दर्शन मुख्यतः "पतंजलि योग सूत्र" के माध्यम से जाना जाता है, जिसमें कुल 195 सूत्र हैं।


    योग दर्शन की विशेषताएं:

    1. अष्टांग योग (Ashtanga Yoga):
      पतंजलि ने योग को आठ अंगों में विभाजित किया है, जिसे अष्टांग योग कहा जाता है:

      • यम (नियम): अहिंसा, सत्य, अस्तेय, ब्रह्मचर्य, अपरिग्रह

      • नियम (अनुशासन): शौच, संतोष, तप, स्वाध्याय, ईश्वरप्रणिधान

      • आसन: शरीर को स्थिर व स्वस्थ रखने की प्रक्रिया

      • प्राणायाम: श्वास-प्रश्वास को नियंत्रित करने की विधि

      • प्रत्याहार: इन्द्रियों को विषयों से हटाना

      • धारण: मन को एक स्थान पर केंद्रित करना

      • ध्यान: निरंतर ध्यान की अवस्था

      • समाधि: आत्मा और परमात्मा का मिलन

    2. दर्शन शास्त्र का हिस्सा:
      योग दर्शन सांख्य दर्शन के सिद्धांतों को आधार बनाता है लेकिन उसमें ईश्वर की सत्ता को स्वीकार करता है, जो इसे एक विशिष्ट स्थान प्रदान करता है।

    3. प्रायोगिक दर्शन:
      योग केवल सैद्धांतिक नहीं बल्कि व्यावहारिक भी है। यह जीवन के हर पहलू को शुद्ध और संतुलित करने की प्रक्रिया है।

    4. उद्देश्य:
      योग दर्शन का मुख्य उद्देश्य चित्त की वृत्तियों का निरोध करना है –
      "योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः" – पतंजलि योग सूत्र 1.2
      अर्थात् मन की चंचलताओं को रोकना ही योग है।


    योग दर्शन का महत्व:


  • Pictorial Stories for Children2

    1. Scene 1: Jungle Kingdom
      – A lion declares himself king and starts troubling all animals.
      (Image: Lion roaring, animals looking scared)

    2. Scene 2: The Plan
      – Animals decide to send one animal a day to the lion as food.
      (Image: Group of animals talking sadly)

    3. Scene 3: Enter the Clever Rabbit
      – One day, a clever little rabbit is chosen. He decides to teach the lion a lesson.
      (Image: A smart rabbit thinking)

    4. Scene 4: Rabbit Meets the Lion
      – Rabbit arrives late. Lion gets angry. Rabbit tells lion another lion stopped him.
      (Image: Angry lion; rabbit talking)

    5. Scene 5: Lion Looks for Rival
      – Rabbit leads lion to a deep well, says the rival lion is inside.
      (Image: Lion looking into a well)

    6. Scene 6: Lion Jumps into Well
      – Lion sees his reflection, thinks it’s the enemy, and jumps in.
      (Image: Lion jumping into water)

    7. Scene 7: Animals Celebrate
      – The jungle is safe again. All animals cheer for the rabbit.
      (Image: Happy animals with the rabbit

  • Raja Yoga

    100.00

    Raja Yoga is one of the four main paths of yoga, often called the "royal path" or the "king of yogas." It focuses on meditation and mental control as the means to spiritual liberation. The system of Raja Yoga was extensively described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, where it is presented as an eightfold path known as the Ashtanga Yoga.

    Meaning of Raja Yoga

    • "Raja" means king, and "yoga" means union or discipline.

    • Thus, Raja Yoga is the path of mastery over the mind, leading to union with the true Self or the divine.

    Key Features of Raja Yoga

    Raja Yoga emphasizes controlling the mind and senses through discipline, concentration, and meditation. It seeks to quiet the mental fluctuations (chitta vrittis) to realize the pure consciousness.

    The Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga)

    1. Yama (Moral Restraints) – Ethical guidelines:

      • Ahimsa (non-violence)

      • Satya (truthfulness)

      • Asteya (non-stealing)

      • Brahmacharya (celibacy or moderation)

      • Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)

    2. Niyama (Personal Disciplines) – Internal practices:

    3. Asana (Posture) – Physical poses that prepare the body for meditation.

    4. Pranayama (Breath Control) – Regulating the breath to control life force (prana).

    5. Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses) – Detaching the senses from external objects.

    6. Dharana (Concentration) – Focusing the mind on a single object.

    7. Dhyana (Meditation)Uninterrupted flow of concentration.

    8. Samadhi (Absorption) – A state of blissful union with the divine or pure consciousness.

    Goal of Raja Yoga

    The ultimate goal of Raja Yoga is Samadhi, where the practitioner experiences union with the Supreme Self (Purusha) and attains liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

    Who Can Practice Raja Yoga?

    Anyone can practice Raja Yoga, regardless of religion or background. It is especially suited for those who are introspective and seek a deep understanding of the mind and consciousness.

  • Swami Vivekananda's "Chicago Addresses" refer to a series of influential speeches he delivered at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893. These speeches introduced Hindu philosophy to the Western world and emphasized universal tolerance and acceptanc 


    📚 Overview of the Chicago Addresses

    Swami Vivekananda delivered six notable lectures during the Parliament:

    1. Response to Welcome (September 11, 1893): Famous for the opening words "Sisters and Brothers of America," this speech highlighted the universality of religions and India's tradition of tolerance 

    2. Why We Disagree (September 13, 1893): Used the parable of the frog in the well to illustrate narrow-mindedness and the need for broader perspectives.

    3.  

    4. Religion Not the Crying Need of India (September 20, 1893): Criticized the focus on religion over addressing the immediate needs of the impoverished in India. 

    5. Buddhism: The Fulfillment of Hinduism (September 26, 1893): Discussed the relationship between Buddhism and Hinduism, portraying Buddhism as an extension of Hindu though 

    6. Address at the Final Session (September 27, 1893): Concluded with a call for religious harmony and mutual respect among different faiths.


    📍 Places Associated with Swami Vivekananda in Chicago

    Swami Vivekananda's time in Chicago is commemorated at several locations:

    • Dearborn Station (47 West Polk St.): The train station where Swami Vivekananda arrived in Chicago.

    • Hotel Richelieu (318 South Michigan Ave.): Venue for his lecture on Buddhism to the Ladies Fortnightly Club on October 27, 1893 

    • Hull House (800 South Halsted St.): A settlement house where he spoke on the economic and social conditions in India between October and December 189 


    📖 A Text: The full text can be read on websites like The Hindu

  • 1. BrahmaThe Creator


    2. VishnuThe Preserver

    • Role: Protector of the universe, maintains cosmic order (dharma).

    • Appearance: Blue skin, four arms holding a conch, discus, lotus, and mace.

    • Avatars: Includes Rama, Krishna, Narasimha, Vamana, etc.

    • Consort: Lakshmi (goddess of wealth).


    3. ShivaThe Destroyer and Transformer

    • Role: Destroys to create; represents change and regeneration.

    • Appearance: Trident, third eye, crescent moon, snakes, ash-covered body.

    • Forms: Nataraja (cosmic dancer), Ardhanarishvara (half-man, half-woman).

    • Consort: Parvati (goddess of love and fertility).


    4. LakshmiGoddess of Wealth and Prosperity

    • Role: Brings wealth, fortune, and spiritual abundance.

    • Appearance: Beautiful, golden-hued, standing or sitting on a lotus.

    • Symbol: Gold coins flowing from her hands.

    • Vehicle: Owl.


    5. SaraswatiGoddess of Knowledge and Arts

    • Role: Patron of learning, music, and wisdom.

    • Appearance: White sari, veena (musical instrument), books, swan or peacock.

    • Symbol: Purity and wisdom.


    6. ParvatiGoddess of Power and Devotion


    7. DurgaWarrior Goddess


    8. KaliGoddess of Time and Death

    • Role: Fierce form of Parvati; symbolizes destruction of evil and ego.

    • Appearance: Dark, wild hair, tongue out, garland of skulls.

    • Symbol: Transformation and liberation.


    9. GaneshaRemover of Obstacles

    • Role: God of beginnings, wisdom, and intellect.

    • Appearance: Elephant head, big belly, riding a mouse.

    • Popular: Worshipped before any major undertaking.


    10. HanumanMonkey God and Devotee of Rama


    11. RamaSeventh Avatar of Vishnu

    • Role: Ideal king and human; hero of the Ramayana.

    • Companion: Sita (his wife), Lakshmana (his brother), and Hanuman.

    • Symbol: Dharma, truth, and virtue.


    12. KrishnaEighth Avatar of Vishnu

    • Role: Divine lover, guide in Bhagavad Gita, cowherd and king.

    • Forms: Child (Makhan Chor), lover (with Radha), and warrior-philosopher.

    • Symbol: Love, wisdom, and divine joy.


    13. Skanda (Kartikeya/Murugan)God of War


    14. SuryaSun God


    15. AgniGod of Fire

    • Role: Mediator between gods and humans (sacrifices).

    • Appearance: Two faces, riding a ram, flames from his body.

  • Here is a description in English about  Swami Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi,Vivekananda, and the direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna in connection with Madras (now Chennai):


    Holy Mother, Swamiji, and the Direct Disciples at Madras  

    Madras (Chennai) played a significant role in the early spread of Sri Ramakrishna's teachings and the Ramakrishna Movement in South India. This city became a center of spiritual awakening through the visits and influence of Swami Vivekananda and other direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.

    Swami Vivekananda in Madras

    Swami Vivekananda visited Madras in 1892, before his historic journey to the West. His presence in the city was transformative. He delivered several inspiring talks, which deeply influenced the educated youth and thinkers of the region. Madras was one of the key places where Swamiji received enthusiastic support and recognition. It was here that followers like Alasinga Perumal, a devoted disciple, helped raise funds for his trip to the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago (1893).

    Swamiji stayed in Madras both before and after his trip to the West. After returning from America in 1897, he was given a grand reception in Madras, where he delivered many stirring lectures. These speeches emphasized Vedanta, national regeneration, and selfless service.

    Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi and Madras

    Though Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi never visited Madras physically, her spiritual influence was deeply felt by the devotees there. Her divine personality, simple life, and silent spiritual force inspired many in South India. Disciples and devotees in Madras maintained correspondence with her and received her blessings and guidance. Her portraits and teachings were spread by the monks of the Ramakrishna Order, helping people to understand her role as the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna and the embodiment of the Divine Mother.

    Direct Disciples and Their Visits to Madras

    Many direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna visited Madras to preach, inspire, and guide devotees. Among them:

    • Swami Ramakrishnananda (Shashi Maharaj), a direct disciple, was sent by Swami Vivekananda to Madras in 1897. He stayed for over a decade and was instrumental in founding the Ramakrishna Math in Madras (now in Mylapore). He dedicated his life to spreading Sri Ramakrishna’s message and establishing a strong monastic presence in South India.

    • Swami Sivananda (Mahapurush Maharaj) and Swami Abhedananda also visited Madras during their preaching tours, contributing to the spread of Vedanta and devotion to Sri Ramakrishna.

    The Madras disciples, including Alasinga Perumal and others, remained closely connected with the movement and were key in the growth of the Ramakrishna Mission.

  • Inspired Talks is a powerful collection of motivational speeches, reflections, and life-changing ideas designed to awaken the spirit and uplift the soul. Each talk offers deep insights into personal growth, purpose, resilience, and the journey of self-discovery. Whether drawn from spiritual wisdom, real-life experiences, or visionary thinkers, these talks inspire listeners to lead meaningful, courageous, and compassionate lives. Perfect for anyone seeking motivation, clarity, or a spark of inspiration in their daily routine.
  • 🌸 Invitation to Holy Company 🌸

    Dear Friend,

    You are warmly invited to join us for a sacred gathering in the spirit of peace, devotion, and divine love. Let us come together in holy company (Satsang) to share in the joy of spiritual conversation, devotional singing, and uplifting reflection.

    Date: [Insert Date]
    Time: [Insert Time]
    Venue: [Insert Location]
    Theme: [Optional: Insert Theme or Occasion]

    Holy company is a divine opportunity to purify the mind, awaken the heart, and draw closer to the Supreme. In the presence of fellow seekers and the remembrance of the Divine, our souls are nourished and inspired.

    Let us sit in the light of truth, chant the sacred names, and walk the path of inner peace together. We would be honored by your presence.

    With love and regards,
    [Your Name or Organization Name]

  • Jnana Yoga

    130.00

    Jnana Yoga (pronounced "Gyana Yoga") is one of the four main paths of yoga in Hindu philosophy, and it is known as the "Path of Knowledge" or "Path of Wisdom."

    Jnana Yoga is the path that emphasizes the pursuit of true knowledge and self-realization through deep inquiry, meditation, and philosophical reflection. It is considered the most direct but also the most difficult path, suitable for those who have a strong intellect and a deep desire to understand the nature of reality and the self.


    🌟 Key Features of Jnana Yoga:

    1. Focus on Self-Inquiry
      The central question in Jnana Yoga is: "Who am I?"
      Practitioners seek to realize their true identity beyond the body and mind — the Atman (true self), which is one with Brahman (ultimate reality or God).

    2. Discrimination (Viveka)
      The ability to distinguish between the real (eternal) and the unreal (temporary). This helps the seeker move beyond illusion (Maya).

    3. Detachment (Vairagya)
      Letting go of attachments to material things, emotions, and even the ego. The practitioner learns to remain unaffected by pleasure or pain.

    4. Six Virtues (Shat-Sampat)
      These include mental discipline, calmness, control of senses, inner stillness, faith, and a balanced mind.

    5. Longing for Liberation (Mumukshutva)
      A strong desire to attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).


    🧘‍♂️ Practices in Jnana Yoga:

    • Study of Scriptures (Svadhyaya): Especially Vedanta, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita.

    • Contemplation and Meditation: Deep reflection on the nature of the self and reality.

    • Listening (Shravana), Reflection (Manana), and Realization (Nididhyasana): The traditional three-step process to gain and internalize spiritual knowledge.

  • Learn to Live

    130.00

    "Learn to Live" – Description

    "Learn to Live" is a powerful phrase that emphasizes the importance of truly understanding and embracing the art of living life. It goes beyond just existing or surviving—it means learning how to live meaningfully, joyfully, and with awareness.

    Detailed Explanation:

    • Acceptance: Life comes with ups and downs. Learning to live means accepting circumstances as they are and making peace with them.

    • Positive Thinking: Focus on the bright side of situations. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, see them as opportunities for growth.

    • Emotional Balance: Develop patience, calmness, and resilience. Learning to manage your emotions is a key part of living well.

    • Gratitude and Joy: Appreciate the small things in life. Learn to find happiness in everyday moments and be grateful for what you have.

    • Growth Mindset: Keep learning, improving, and evolving. Life is a continuous journey of self-discovery and betterment.

    • Living in the Present: Don't dwell on the past or worry too much about the future. Live fully in the present moment.

  • My India   A Beautiful Land of Diversity

    India is my beloved country. It is not just a piece of land but a land of rich culture, heritage, and history. Located in South Asia, India is the seventh-largest country in the world and the second most populous. It is known for its unity in diversity, where people of different religions, languages, and traditions live together in harmony.

    India has a glorious past. It is the birthplace of ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization and spiritual leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, Buddha, and many more. Our freedom struggle against British rule was one of the most inspiring movements in the world.

    India is famous for its beautiful landscapes – from the snowy Himalayas in the north to the peaceful beaches in the south, from the Thar Desert in the west to the green forests in the east. Every state has its own language, festivals, and culture, yet all Indians are united by love and respect for each other.

    India is also making great progress in technology, education, science, and space research. Organizations like ISRO and achievements in digital innovation have made the nation proud on the global stage.

    As a proud citizen of India, I love my country deeply. I dream of an India that is clean, educated, and free from poverty and corruption. I believe that with hard work and unity, we can make our country even more glorious.

    Jai Hind!