The following morning, after breakfast, Daaji visited the second gift. The land, currently dry and arid —reminiscent of Kanha Shanti Vanam in its early days— will require significant rejuvenation to transform into a serene haven for spiritual seekers. The land, potentially 100 hectares, is part of a 1,000+ hectare property located in Alentejo and is part of the Montado ecosystem, a multifunctional agro-silver-pastoral system originally covered by Mediterranean woodlands and now home to cork oaks and holm oaks. &nbsp;Daaji was warmly welcomed by the family in a traditional Alentejo house filled with history. The visit included ecologists and architects who will help shape a plan for the future development of the land. After the presentation, he conducted a meditation session, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the day. &nbsp;

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Daaji's journey in Portugal was filled with memorable moments and heartfelt exchanges. He left Lisbon mid-afternoon to head to Vrads for the final seminar in Europe, and the last stop on His global tour, before returning to India. &nbsp;These days have been a beautiful testament to the spirit of Heartfulness and the community's commitment to creating spaces for peace and regeneration. &nbsp;

Daaji's journey in Portugal was filled with memorable moments and heartfelt exchanges. He left Lisbon mid-afternoon to head to Vrads for the final seminar in Europe, and the last stop on His global tour, before returning to India.

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Daaji was warmly welcomed by the family in a traditional Alentejo house filled with history. The visit included ecologists and architects who will help shape a plan for the future development of the land.

Lisbon 5th July 2024

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A live journal of blessed activities in and around Kanha with Daaji

As usual, Daaji woke up early and started his workday at 4 am working at his desk and on the computer. Later he went to inspect the new greenhouse set up behind his home. He walked along the teak wood path, and upon learning from the volunteers there that the neem tree saplings were thriving, now nearly a thousand strong in the nursery, he expressed his joy. &nbsp;He then suggested planting a specific type of grass near the new slopes of the ashram to help hold the soil together. The volunteers discussed the plan to plant a large number of coconut trees, along with one lemon tree for every small group of coconut trees with him. Daaji thoughtfully considered the irrigation needs of the trees, knowing that coconut trees require more water than lemon trees. Eventually, they decided upon controlled drip irrigation, which allowed them to begin a new series of plantations in designated areas. &nbsp;Afterwards, Daaji returned and went through his morning exercise routine. Following breakfast, Daaji went to his office and conducted a sitting for the abhyasis who were waiting for him there. &nbsp;

After the sitting, Daaji headed to the meditation hall stage building to meet a few abhyasis and conducted a meditation session for them. After a brief silence, one by one, people approached him - a few with their projects, some bringing their children for birthday blessings, and others with their life concerns. Daaji affectionately attended to each person giving them time and listening to them patiently, giving gifts to a few children. When a lady fell at his feet, he was visibly upset, reminding people not to do so. He gently chided the abhyasi who had brought the lady, saying, "Had you not told her not to fall at my feet? No good will come of this. Perhaps if she had learned to fall at her parents' feet, it would have been better!" It is truly remarkable how he lovingly addresses everyone's needs in spite of such uncomfortable scenes at times. &nbsp;Later in the day, he met with the Hearty Culture team, who had new products to show him for his approval. He listened and provided necessary feedback and direction until they had finished their updates. He also met with the editorial team members, offering his insights related to publication matters. &nbsp;

When a lady fell at his feet, he was visibly upset, reminding people not to do so. Daaji gently chided the abhyasi who had brought the lady, saying, "Had you not told her not to fall at my feet? No good will come of this. Perhaps if she had learned to fall at her parents' feet, it would have been better!"&nbsp;

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Spending a day around Daaji feels like a profound experience. Daaji’s even the tiniest and seemingly insignificant deed has so much meaning and lesson. 

Kanha Shantivanam 16th July 2024

This morning, Daaji woke up very early with a peaceful start to the day. At 5:30 am, he went out on a walk around the grounds of Kanha. While discussing the lighting for the greenhouse projects, Daaji emphasized the need for a good lighting system to ensure proper photosynthesis for the plants. After seeing the work done by the solar panel team, he suggested adding polycarbonate sheets between the solar panels to allow some light to come through. He also noticed some pepper plants that needed support and offered advice on how to tie them properly.&nbsp;&nbsp;As he walked along the water canal, Daaji came across a sandalwood tree that had fallen due to the rain. A team was already at the site recovering the fallen tree. He supervised the gardening team as they worked to set the tree back and up again safely. After feeding the fish, Daaji went to observe the various agricultural fields. He was pleased to see the dragon fruit trees thriving well. &nbsp;Daaji’s attention to detail, care towards every plant, sapling, and person is a point to note here and teaches us volumes as to how every action, word, and gesture of ours can have a profound impact.&nbsp; &nbsp;

As he walked along the water canal, Daaji came across a sandalwood tree that had fallen due to the rain. A team was already at the site recovering the fallen tree. He supervised the gardening team as they worked to set the tree back and up again safely.

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Daaji teaches with his example. He embodies the ideals, kindness, and compassion he believes in, which show us the way to lead our lives.

Kanha Shantivanam 15th July 2024

Daaji conducted the first satsangh in the main meditation hall since his return from his overseas travels. For all the Kanha residents who are meditating with Daaji after a gap of about 50 days, it was an enthralling experience to see him back on the main stage of the hall and conduct the meditation session.&nbsp;&nbsp;Daaji virtually inaugurated the meditation hall at Khair, Aligarh, UP, India, during this satsangh. After that, he distributed the certificates to the yoga training students who had just completed their RYT200 level course.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following this, he answered questions from the teachers coming from the state of Sikkim, India. The proceedings are recorded here:&nbsp;After the Q&amp;A Daaji then announced the pilot project of collecting used kitchen oil to convert it to biofuel saying that once we had a sufficient volume he would share with everyone the results of this pilot-run of this project.&nbsp;Then he said goodbye to the young new abhyasis taking their first sitting on the stage. As he exited the stage, he was greeted by a little child, and her father, from Sikkim. Daaji graciously accepted the scarf offered by the father and put it on the little girl.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He then went to his office where he met with a senior officer of the Indian Navy. The Vice-Admiral, Anand Sardesai, asked Daaji several questions on the nature of combat and war. The dialogue between the Vice-Admiral and Daaji delved into the complexities of predicting future events of destruction as predicted by many a sage and oracle. The Vice Admiral was very curious regarding the philosophical nature of being a warrior. Daaji articulated that predicting the future was inherently difficult due to its dynamic and fluid nature, heavily influenced by the actions and will of people. While it was possible to foresee certain events in astrology, these predictions could be altered by human intervention. However, once a path of destruction was initiated, it became a matter of when, rather than if, it would occur. Daaji referenced the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle to highlight the inherent uncertainties in making precise predictions, explaining that just as it is difficult to determine both the position and momentum of a particle simultaneously, predicting the exact timing and location of future events is equally challenging.&nbsp;To illustrate his point further, Daaji drew on historical epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. He recounted how the destinies of key characters were altered by human emotions and actions. For instance, in the Ramayana, although the horoscopes of Rama and Sita predicted happiness, their lives took a tragic turn due to the jealousy of Kaikeyi and the ego of Dasharatha who preferred sending his beloved son to the forest rather than break a vow given to his wife, however incoherent her request to him seemed to be. Similarly, the great wars in both the Ramayana and the Mahabharata were precipitated by what could be termed as the “arrogance" of Bhishma and Dasharatha, respectively. Daaji boldly suggested that if these figures had been humble enough to reconsider their oaths and promises, the outcomes could have been vastly different.&nbsp;Addressing the Vice-Admiral's perspective on warrior ethos, Daaji emphasized that being a warrior was not merely about engaging in violence. Instead, it encompassed a broader responsibility of protecting the weak, fostering compassion, teamwork, and a commitment to peace. He referenced the Bhagavad Gita, where Arjuna grappled with the moral dilemma of participating in destruction. Daaji underscored the importance of maintaining righteousness, which is often more challenging than it appears. He humorously remarked that if divine figures like Krishna or Rama were to spend time among people today, they would quickly become burdensome, as people prefer to honor them in temples rather than integrate their principles into their daily lives.&nbsp;Daaji also critiqued present-day worship practices, noting a significant departure from the genuine spiritual connection that characterized Vedic times. He lamented that contemporary rituals often lacked true feeling and had become a form of escapism. In contrast, during the Vedic era, people felt a profound connection with nature and divinity, perceiving God's presence in themselves, the sky, rivers, mountains, and the cosmos. Daaji argued that today's worship often involved external rituals without an internal spiritual experience, marking a degradation of the original essence of Hinduism.&nbsp;In summary, the dialogue covered the unpredictability of future events, the philosophical nature of being a warrior, and a critique of modern worship practices. Daaji's insights highlighted the importance of humility, compassion, and genuine spiritual connection in navigating life's challenges and maintaining righteousness. &nbsp;

He greeted a visiting abhyasi couple who were visiting Kanha for the first time to meet Daaji. They were happy to be in his presence and Daaji warmly welcomed them into the fold. Later he went back home after saying goodbye to all.

Daaji also critiqued present-day worship practices, noting a significant departure from the genuine spiritual connection that characterized Vedic times. He lamented that contemporary rituals often lacked true feeling and had become a form of escapism. In contrast, during the Vedic era, people felt a profound connection with nature and divinity, perceiving God's presence in themselves, the sky, rivers, mountains, and the cosmos. Daaji argued that today's worship often involved external rituals without an internal spiritual experience, marking a degradation of the original essence of Hinduism.

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The day started with the much-awaited satsangh after Daaji’s return from his world tour. After fifty days, residents of Kanha and many abhyasi could join him to meditate. 

Kanha Shantivanam 14th July 2024

11th July &nbsp;In the early hours of the morning, around 6:30 am, Daaji made an unexpected visit to the institution's land, much to the delight of the volunteers who had already been working in the field since early morning. Their faces lit up with joy at the surprise visit from Daaji and they requested a group photo with him, which Daaji obliged affectionately. Thus capturing a moment to be cherished. He surveyed the papaya garden and coconut trees.&nbsp;Daaji has been dedicated to the cause of Forests by Heartfulness. He was in touch with the teams in Kanha guiding them and providing feedback on their regular updates to the ongoing work. This initiative helps not only set the benchmark in environmental efforts but also acts as a model for other organizations to emulate. Jeybal discussed several ideas on cultivation plans for that spot where even more vegetables could be grown on a large scale. After coming home Daaji went around the garden for a while.&nbsp; &nbsp;

12th July &nbsp;As soon as he was up and about for the day, Daaji got to work. He was at his computer desk attending to the necessary work. Then he went on a long walk along with Jeybal. Daaji inspected various areas of the garden with keen interest. He talked about a special project he had been contemplating, aimed at transforming a section of the institution's land into a denser forest. Daaji mentioned that a particular oil could serve as a biofuel and improve the fertility of the soil. He explained the concept of repurposing used cooking oil for sustainable purposes, and that this initiative would be announced with the larger audience soon. At a very high level, the plan is to collect used cooking oil from all the homes, the main kitchen, and the canteen in Kanha to pilot this eco-friendly project here.

13th July &nbsp;In the morning, Daaji went to his office at the back of the meditation hall stage to meet with a few abhyasis waiting for him.&nbsp; His arrival was marked by a warm greeting from an elderly abhyasi who was celebrating his birthday. This brother presented Daaji with a large bottle of his homemade golden honey, which Daaji accepted gracefully, extending his heartfelt birthday wishes.An abhyasi from Tumkunkta ashram, located on the outskirts of Secunderabad city, met him and said that the abhyasis there were eager to know when he’d visit the ashram. Daaji assured them that he'd like to visit them soon and wondered if they could leave that day itself and hold the next day’s Sunday satsangh there. However, when some other work came up at Kanha, he decided that he would visit at another time.&nbsp;When it was the ashram management team’s turn to present their updates of the ongoing work in Kanha, Daaji conveyed his satisfaction to the ashram manager &amp; chairman, Vineet Ranawat, commending him and his team for managing the affairs of the ashram so well. Consequently, there was no need for him to further review the ongoing programs that brother Vineet had brought to show him.Daaji conducted satsangh for all those who were present in the office room, and after that, he continued to attend to those who had gathered in the room. The abhyasis affectionately approached him, each with their requests, stories to tell, and news to share. Some shared joyous tidings, while others sought clarity amidst confusion, and a few others approached with tears, sharing their painful experiences. Daaji listened attentively to each person, providing guidance, sympathy, and direction as needed.&nbsp; Everyone felt heard and was grateful for the time Daaji spent with them. He had to return home for some other work that was awaiting him. But instead, he stretched himself to be available to all those who needed him there at the time.&nbsp;

Daaji's arrival was marked by a warm greeting from an elderly abhyasi who was celebrating his birthday. This brother presented Daaji with a large bottle of his homemade golden honey, which Daaji accepted gracefully, extending his heartfelt birthday wishes.

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Daaji’s days at Kanha are going quite peacefully, which was much needed, especially after his hectic visits to Dubai, Europe, and the USA. However, he kept meeting abhyasis with his usual kindness and compassion, inspiring us all with his example. 

Kanha Shantivanam 11th - 13th July 2024

In the early hours of the morning, Daaji returned to India after a long journey. His flight LH752 from Frankfurt landed at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, just a few hours after a heavy downpour around 1.40 AM.&nbsp; &nbsp;A large group of excited and joyful abhyasis awaited Daaji's arrival. It was 2 AM when Daaji finally emerged, accompanied by a few abhyasis from Frankfurt on the last leg of his journey. As he stepped out, he greeted the eager faces near the gate with a few kind words. Those standing behind the barriers soon began to unfurl their banners, cheerfully displaying, "Welcome back, Daaji!".&nbsp; &nbsp;Noting the presence of many familiar faces, Daaji paused several times to exchange greetings, lifting everyone's spirits despite the long flight, which lasted over eight hours. His cheerful demeanor was a welcome sight. &nbsp;He then got into a car driven by his son, Marg, and headed home with Pratima Ben. Kanha's atmosphere was jubilant even in the wee hours of the morning. Many abhyasis had gathered at the gate, eagerly awaiting Daaji's arrival. The pathways of Kanha were adorned with pretty lights, leading to his home, where his family was ready to welcome him ever so warmly. &nbsp;

After getting freshened up Daaji went to his swing and had some tea and snacks. Later he went to bed around 4:30 AM. Daaji rested till 11:30 AM catching up on the jet lag. Little later all three grandchildren were with him for the first time in months. They were seated in his lap with evident joy that lit up the little room! Only little Devki, the eldest of his grandchildren, was in school, at that time in the morning, so it was not the full circle yet. After giving the little ones the gifts he had brought back for them, he rested some more.&nbsp; &nbsp;Around 6 PM, a few abhyasis who were waiting for him, met him while he sat on the swing. Light banter kept everyone smiling as there was an ease of his presence for being back in Kanha. A little later, Daaji went for a walk in the garden. A sister who was going to Australia came to say goodbye to Daaji as she was leaving that day. This was followed by a quiet moment when they all meditated around 8 pm with Daaji after which practically everyone left in the gathering silence of a quiet Kanha evening leaving Daaji to rest for the evening. Daaji had dinner with some of them and then retired to bed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Highlight of the Day &nbsp;All three grandchildren were with him for the first time in months. They were seated in his lap with evident joy that lit up the little room! Only little Devki, the eldest of his grandchildren, was in school, at that time in the morning, so it was not the full circle yet. &nbsp;

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Daaji reached Hyderabad and Kanha in the wee hours of the morning. His presence in Kanha changed the atmosphere of the place as if a new wave of positivity had arrived. He spent his day with his family, his grandchildren, and some abhyasis. 

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