Words of Peace Global News
Report: Event in Barcelona, Spain - July 2010[Mon, 26 Jul 2010]
On a hot evening on July 4, close to 3,000 people from across Europe gathered at the CCIB Forum (Centro de Congresos Internacional de Barcelona) on Barcelona's seafront to listen to Maharaji. In a wide-ranging talk touching on subjects spanning from the recession to war and peace, he spoke of the need for people to live consciously.
Here are some excerpts from his talk:
It is human beings who decide to start wars and, if they want — in the next five minutes — all war could be stopped. War is not a supernatural phenomenon that nobody has any control over. These guns don't do it by themselves. Somebody has to pull the trigger. If all the people of this earth in unison were to say, 'Stop it,' it would be stopped. It would.
This war that rages inside of you is sometimes just as dangerous as any war fought on the outside. And the innocent are killed in this war, too. The innocent are this breath, this time, this possibility of peace. They are sacrificed in the arrogance of the war of confusion. Clarity is therefore mandatory.
You need to see who you really are. 'Know thyself.' It will bring you joy, it will bring you clarity, it will bring you understanding. You will know who you are, and how blessed you are. That's what 'Know thyself' means.
Prem Rawat Addresses Peace Conference at European Union
[Mon, 19 Jul 2010]
Prem Rawat was invited by Gianni Pittella, First Vice President of the European Union, to share his vision of peace at a special event called “Words of Peace for Europe,” held at the EU Parliament House in Brussels on June 29, 2010. Mr. Rawat spoke to a diverse audience of diplomats, local leaders, and other honored guests from many countries.
Mr. Rawat’s remarks offered a clear and challenging perspective. “If we have the power to make such a mess out of this earth, then certainly we have enough power to bring peace to this earth, too,” he said. “The question remains whether or not it is something that we want to do, because peace begins with every one of you. It is individual human beings who need peace; it is individual human beings in whom the desire resides; and it is on the individual human being’s stage that peace needs to dance.”
Concluding his address during which pin-drop silence was frequently interrupted by bursts of applause, Mr. Rawat declared, “Determination, understanding, and clarity have to be the fundamental foundations on which this peace will be built. Not exclusion, but inclusion. The day our measurements are based on our similarities and not our differences is the day we will begin to lay the foundation for peace in this world.”
At the end of the event, Mr. Pittella personally thanked Mr. Rawat for his insights, declaring that: "Today, peace is considered an irreplaceable factor in every effort for a society that is based on the dignity of the individual and on common welfare. However, any effort for peace made by institutions cannot fully succeed if the value of peace is not deeply rooted in every person's heart.”
Prem Rawat Receives Seal of Padua Province, Italy
[Wed, 14 Jul 2010]
On June 24, Prem Rawat was greeted by an enthusiastic audience in the Theatre Verdi of Padua’s town hall. A city of over 200,000 people, Padua is located on the Bacchiglione River near Venice. Home of the renowned Universita’ di Padova, where Galileo Galilei once lectured, it is one of the oldest cities in northern Italy. The event itself took place under the patronage of Padua Province, the Veneto Region, and the Ministry of Justice.
Anna Milvia Boselli, member of the Padua City Council, welcomed Prem Rawat on behalf of the city and later presented him with the seal of Padua. Province Alderman Leandro Comacchio conveyed greetings from Padua Province emphasizing that, after hearing about Prem Rawat for over 30 years from a friend of his, he was very happy to finally be able to hear him speak in person.
“Why do you think that peace is not a happening thing?” asked Prem Rawat. “The individual is missing from the equation,” he said. “We talk about world peace, not individual peace. Peace is not social; it is an individual phenomenon. If we want peace, we have to explore our own thirst for peace.
“One thing that many people don’t know,” he continued, “is that if you are in peace, it will make you very happy. I am talking about the real peace in your life. This is what we all want. Do whatever is necessary to bring peace in your life, and it will bring you an immense amount of happiness.”
If the standing ovation at the end of the address was any indication, Prem Rawat struck a resounding chord with his audience.
Officials Name Prem Rawat “Ambassador of Peace in the World”
[Sun, 11 Jul 2010]
In the peaceful village of Sondrio, Italy, in the foothills of the Alps, government officials and townspeople alike gathered to honor Prem Rawat’s efforts to encourage world peace: a peace that begins with each individual.
On the invitation of the Sondrio Town Hall and under the patronage of the Province of Sondrio, the Lombardy Region, and the Ministry of Justice, Prem Rawat arrived in this northern city on June 22, 2010. In a private meeting of the Sondrio City Council, officials graciously awarded him the title “Ambassador of Peace in the World” and presented him with a symbolic gift from the nearby city of Tirano as well as a plaque from Lombardy adorned with the official symbol of the region, the Camuna Rose.
Later on, over 600 people gathered in the city square to listen to Prem Rawat speak. In a brochure announcing the event, Mayor Alcide Molteni of Sondrio had expressed that, "Prem Rawat speaks right to people’s hearts, inspiring them to undertake a journey that begins with the consciousness of one's self and the ability to feel grateful for the very fact of being alive.”
True to the Mayor’s words, Prem Rawat’s talk offered an encouraging perspective on world peace beginning with each person. The audience listened intently as he spoke. “We all want the manifestations of peace on the outside,” he said. “We know that if people have peace, then there will be prosperity. But how do you begin to manifest peace on the outside if it is not on the inside of each individual human being?
“Peace begins with every individual,” he continued. “Begin with yourself, looking for the answers within you. If nothing else, you will have taken the first step. And the journey of a thousand steps begins with the first one.”
Journalists who followed the event for the local press were impressed by Mr. Rawat's charisma, his wit and irony, and his straight and effective way of communicating that could reach “even the driest heart.”
Prem Rawat Honored in Europe
[Wed, 30 Jun 2010]
Prem Rawat has been an honored guest at three events in Europe in the last week:
Sondrio, Italy
On June 22 in the Piazza Garibaldi, a peaceful village square lying in the heart of the city of Sondrio, Italy, in the foothills of the Alps, Prem Rawat was greeted by the town's mayor, Alcide Molteni, along with Marina Cotelli, Town Hall Alderman. One reporter quoted Prem Rawat as saying, "Peace is not impossible; it is very possible. From personal fulfillment to our collective compassion for humanity, we can make tremendous strides."
Padua, Italy
Two days later, he arrived in the city of Padua, one of the oldest and noblest cities in northern Italy, to speak at the impressive Teatro Verdi, which first became a cultural forum in 1751. Hosted by the Town Hall of Padua, Province of Padua, and the Region of Veneto, he was greeted by presenter Angelo Baiguera with a message of goodwill from Giorgio Napolitano, President of the Italian Republic, expressing appreciation and best wishes. After Prem Rawat spoke, he was presented with the seal of the city of Padua, as well as a plaque commending the work of The Prem Rawat Foundation.
The following video showcases the events held in Sondrio and Padua:
Brussels, Belgium
On June 29, at the invitation of Gianni Pittella, first Vice President of the European Parliament, Prem Rawat was the keynote speaker at a conference entitled "Words of Peace for Europe." Held in the prestigious setting of the European Parliament building in Brussels, the event was introduced by Vice President Pittella and included a talk by Pavel Borodin, State Secretary of the Union of Russia and Belarus and a message of good wishes for the event from Giorgio Napolitano, President of the Republic of Italy.
Read more detailed articles about each event:
Photos courtesy of Associazione Percorsi, and video courtesy of Wendy Lewis.
Words and Music: A Welcome Fusion
[Tue, 29 Jun 2010]
When George Worthmore, a well-known guitarist and singer, was touring the Michigan region recently he met Candice Wilmore at a local club where she asked him to play at what would later be called “Words and Music.”
The next time he came through Lansing, Candice and her friends rented a community center and invited people to hear him and watch a DVD about peace. The evening was billed simply: “Words and Music: Words from Prem Rawat; Music from George Worthmore.”
By the end of the evening, thirty people were bouncing their heads to George’s famous ragtime blues. A new way to introduce a simple message had arrived.
This first event with Worthmore drew several of his local fans — people who would probably not have come otherwise. Candice and her friends saw the potential — and so began what is now a series of live music and video presentations.
In May 2010, a second Words and Music event was held at the public library in East Lansing. This time, it combined a performance by Elden Kelly, a Michigan State University musicology masters student, and a video called “Fundamental Desire,” which integrates Prem Rawat’s words with comments from people who know him.
Kelly, who knew about Prem Rawat but had never heard him speak, said he enjoys performing for others, especially at an event that promotes peace.
“This is something I’m very happy about because of Prem’s message,” said Kelly, who performed both original material and jazz standards.
Guests stayed for the entire 90 minute presentation and were free to look over materials or enjoy a snack while the music continued.
The editor of the Michigan State University campus newspaper, who had seen the calendar listing, asked if a reporter could cover the “interesting concept.”
The following day’s article was headlined “Words, Music Event Fosters Peace,” with a large photo of Kelly. It was clear that this was a community activity that could attract people to future events in this city.
When asked why he enjoyed listening to Prem Rawat, Tom McEvoy, a Lansing resident, told the reporter: “It’s just a totally positive experience — one of those indescribable things.” He spoke about how he had been shown something that “brings a new light to my life.”
Another woman said she’d been hearing about Prem Rawat from friends for over twenty years and that it was “nice to finally hear him speak for himself.”
One musician in the audience, who was attending Words and Music for the first time, asked if he could play at a future event.
“This was great,” he said. “The vibe in the room is what I look for when I play for an audience.”
A volunteer summed it up by saying there was a synergy to the event which allowed people to take the feeling of the words and sit with it during the music.
Following the success of these events, Candice and her friends are now planning a third, where people can again listen to some simple words of peace — and a "soundtrack" to go with them.
Photographs courtesy of Matt Katzenberger
Report: Event in Miami, Florida - June 2010
[Fri, 25 Jun 2010]
Immediately after speaking in Miami, Florida on June 13, Maharaji gave a rare, off-the-cuff interview to Words of Peace Global. Standing in the darkened backstage area of the James L. Knight Center before leaving, he spoke briefly about the audience, his upcoming tour plans and his views on various types of events.
“It’s a privilege to speak to people who have such passion for Knowledge and for peace”, he said, referring to his message. “It’s always fabulous”.
“I’m on my way to Europe to do some events and I’d like to do an event in Barcelona, but I’ll be back in the U.S. to do a tour up and down the East Coast, as well”.
Asked if he would consider speaking at a multi-day event, he replied: “Those type of events just don’t work for many people. The logistics are horrendous and hard to put together. Many just cannot attend. The people who see me on Words of Peace television programs or WOPG videos on the website just aren’t able to come to events like those, so I go to them”.
“With local events like this one, many more people can come and see me”. He smiled. “I’m able to speak with so many more”.
As proof of what he was saying, Maharaji had just finished speaking to over 1,600 people who, despite receiving little notice, had come from across the United States, South America and Europe to hear him.
Against a backdrop of the worst oil-spill in U.S. history, ruined beaches, searing temperatures and predictions of the worst hurricane season in years, he spoke of true wealth and of life.
“If you want to be rich, if you want to ‘hedge against inflation’”, he said, “then understand your richness. Understand what you have been given. Understand what this life is about. This is not going to repeat itself”.
Using various examples, he spoke about advice and understanding where it comes from; about how to follow the heart in order to make the best decisions; and what it takes to embark on the road to peace. Throughout, he returned to his main themes: what it means to be truly wealthy; to be fulfilled; to be content; to be full of joy. What it means, in short, to be alive.
Afterwards, several guests gave WOPG their views of the event.
“I’ll never forget the first time I saw him speak, about 20 years ago”, said Josephina Chan, a former resident of Venezuela now living in Miami. “He inspired me to pursue Knowledge, a way to inner peace. Today it’s really no different, because now he inspires me to continue, to keep enjoying the marvelous experience of this breath and to help others”.
Michael Critchley, originally from England, told us: “I come to see him for the same reason as always. He just exemplifies what he’s talking about, enjoying it himself and sharing that joy and passion with us”.
“He gave me something life-changing, lifelong”, Gary Girard, who runs an aviation business in Miami, explained. “If I’m able, I’ll go to see him. I work and he works, so scheduling is sometimes difficult, but I feel that everyone should hear his message, at least once”.
“Maharaji has been reaching people in the most fundamental way”, said Terry Arnett “And he still does. I don’t even think about it anymore. I just want to help any way I can because his work is key to people knowing themselves”.
Report: Event in Hapuna, Hawaii - May 2010
[Fri, 18 Jun 2010]
After addressing tens of thousands in India, Maharaji stopped over in Hawaii to speak to just 100 people on his way back to the United States.
The unexpected event at the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort on Hawaii's Big Island followed a six week tour in Southern Asia, drawing people from all over the Hawaiian islands.
Maharaji was given a truly Hawaiian welcome.
"Ha," one woman told Maharaji, "means breath." And "Alo" means presence. Aloha, the breath of life. A pretty good greeting, and it happens to be Hawaii's most famous word.
Hope for Peace in the Balkans
[Mon, 07 Jun 2010]
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is regrettably best known for its violent past. In 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was unexpectedly assassinated there, sparking the first World War. More recently, it became the site of the longest running siege of a capital city in the history of modern warfare, lasting from 1992 until 1996. Despite this recent period of civil unrest, a few individuals have continued to make a stand for peace: not just societal peace, but a tangible peace that can be felt within each individual.
In Spite of War
The message of Prem Rawat first came to Sarajevo in 1975 when Seid Trnka—who first heard about it in Germany—informed his local friends. Soon there were quite a few interested in learning more, many of whom ended up receiving the techniques of Knowledge, a practical method that Prem Rawat teaches to experience peace within. As a result, approximately 150 people were listening to Prem Rawat’s teachings in Sarajevo before the war began in March 1992. Interest was growing steadily.
Unfortunately, the aggression of the siege of Sarajevo changed everything. Violence became an everyday phenomenon, and there was little guarantee of survival. However, even during Sarajevo’s darkest hours in the winter of 1994, when bombings occurred daily and the city was without electricity, food, water, or telephone, a few determined people managed to organize video presentations of Prem Rawat’s message. These weekly meetings continued from February to August of 1994, despite obvious difficulties. For the organizers, these presentations “were like an oasis in a hostile desert, offering refreshing insight to the reality of life.” Even in the midst of war, it was possible to be reminded to focus on existence itself rather than the external circumstances that threatened to take it away.
After the war, two-thirds of those listening to Prem Rawat’s teachings left Sarajevo. Not much happened until the Keys—a series of videos designed to explain key points of understanding—were introduced, which inspired a small team of enthusiasts to take on the massive effort of translating and subtitling them into the Bosnian language, with help from Serbian colleagues. The translation of these videos provided a solid foundation for interested people to learn more, and allowed them to easily inform fellow citizens about the possibility of experiencing inner peace.
Expanding Outreach
At an event held on July 28, 2009 in Belgrade, Prem Rawat expressed the desire to visit Sarajevo. Inspired by his words, the team dedicated themselves to informing all of their fellow citizens about Prem Rawat’s message. They began holding presentations in the Holiday Inn, with a plan to invite anyone and everyone they could.
After several attempts were made to get the word out through newspaper advertisements, posters, and e-mail, they tried an Internet ad. This brought half a dozen newcomers to an event in October. Not satisfied, the team decided to hold yet another event, this time advertising through a regional TV station called TVSA which broadcasts to 400,000 people. For the first time, an invitation to hear more was broadcast widely in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
This was a milestone for the organizers, although it took a great deal of effort to make it happen. As Nihad Ajanovic explained, “The idea of broadcasting the message via TV in Bosnia and Herzegovina had existed for some time, and a team had been steadily working and translating many events from the series Words of Peace.” Thanks to these translators’ efforts, it became possible to hold regular events at the local Holiday Inn, although the cost of renting the hall and audiovisual equipment was “nearly the same as a monthly salary in the region.” To the team, however, it was worth it. And this time around, there were quite a few new faces in the crowd.
Heartfelt Thanks
“I just hope this feeling will stay.”
“This is what I have been looking for.”
“I felt the joy in my heart so that I started to cry.”
These were some of the comments made by guests who attended the presentation at the Holiday Inn in Sarajevo.
Biljana Radanovic, who recently began practicing Knowledge, felt very inspired by the audience’s reaction. “It was so beautiful to see the audience embrace this message. People came to learn what it was all about, and listened to Prem Rawat with open minds. Their expression of disbelief changed to one of recognition,” she said. “That they, too, can have an experience of peace.”
Report: Event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – May 2010
[Wed, 02 Jun 2010]
On May 15, Maharaji arrived in the capital city of Malaysia to speak to 2,230 people about each human being's quest to be fulfilled. Kuala Lumpur, a melting pot of Asia, already hosts a broad array of cultures, many of its residents Malay, Indonesian, Thai, Chinese, and Indian. With an influx of international visitors, it was soon a full-on global event. One thing the guests had in common: they had all made that trek in order to hear that night’s speaker. For many, it had been over a year since they'd had an opportunity to hear Maharaji live.
Much was said during the hour or more that he spoke, and he illustrated his points poignantly with stories, anecdotes, and his usual sense of humor. Throughout his address, he returned to the nature of love. “Are you not in love with life? Are you not in love with living? Are you not in love?” he asked. “Because if you're not, that's the source of your ailments. You're not in love from your heart.”
Continuing, he implored his audience to fall in love “with this life, with this day, with this moment, with this breath, with this existence. Fall in love with clarity. Fall in love with that divinity inside of you. Fall in love with all that is so beautiful.”
After the event, the following comments were made by some of the attendees:
“I felt drunk with happiness. It was a focused event and very special for me.”
Beatrice — Australia
“I was very happy to see him face to face. It was such a joy and left me speechless. He cares to come and see me ... and I made it to see him as well.”
Susan — Melbourne, Australia
“I was very happy to be in this program. It has inspired me to help spread this beautiful message of peace brought by Maharaji.”
Mrs. Kanan — Sg Siput, Malaysia
“It just made perfect sense to my heart to be here and I am so grateful for this chance. My heart feels more satisfied now and I feel I gained that pearl of wisdom that I came here for. Now I just want to nurture this flame of peace, which is more precious than gold.”
Grace — Queensland, Australia
Report: Event in Chennai, India – May 2010
[Wed, 19 May 2010]
It was a special day for the people of Tamil Nadu and Southern India. Many in this region had eagerly been awaiting word of a local event, and soon guests from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, Andra Pradesh, Sri Lanka, and Bombay were rushing to Chennai — the home of the top-ranking SRM University, and where Maharaji would speak — by train, car, or bus. Soon they were idling under the campus’ serene, well-tended trees, cheerfully waiting for the doors to the hall to open.
After a brief introduction by the MC and a couple of introductory videos, Maharaji came on stage to speak to the audience about the need for each human being to understand their nature and to take responsibility for their own consciousness.
For many, it was their first opportunity to hear Maharaji speak in person. Mr. Raveender from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu was grateful to finally attend a live address. "I have watched many DVDs and satellite programs, but it was entirely different being in his presence and listening to him live,” he said. “I feel so happy and fulfilled inside."
Report: Event in Delhi, India - April 2010
[Fri, 14 May 2010]
Harsh seasonal conditions prove to be no constraint for those who wish to listen to Maharaji. Approximately fifty-five thousand came to attend the latest event in Delhi during one of the hottest weeks in April, the temperature nearing a scalding 40º C (104º F). The news that there would be yet another event with Maharaji in Delhi had spread like wildfire, with people flocking there from every region of India as well as many western countries. Attendees began arriving before 6:00 AM, carried there by buses, tractors, trucks, and any or all feasible means of transportation.
Despite the overwhelming heat, many of the guests seemed happy to wait in the scorching sun, while a few felt inspired enough to dance. When asked what could cause such energetic displays of happiness in that sort of weather, Sukeshi Singh, one of the attendees, explained that physical inconveniences were minor compared to the joy of hearing Maharaji. “As people fast and travel long distances to be in joy, similarly I can bear this heat and have less food to listen to Maharaji and to be in joy,” he said.
Maharaji started his talk by emphasizing the difference between listening and understanding. “How beautiful is that time when the human being has the chance to listen? And greater than that is the time when the person understands what he hears. To listen is one thing, to understand is another,” he said. Throughout the rest of his address, he returned to the separation that lies between the wishes of the mind and the wishes of the heart. “May the wishes of your heart be fulfilled, not the wishes of your mind,” he told the crowd. “And what is the wish of your heart? The heart—your heart—only wants to have that love of the immortal.”
When the event was over, it was already late in the evening, but people were in no hurry to leave. Very gradually, vehicles began to exit the grounds, taking their passengers home after a long, fruitful day.
A young girl named Jyoti Sharma, a monitor in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, had come to help prepare the event. “Though his message is always the same, every time I listen to him, it seems new. I always get a new thing, a new experience. I am very happy that Maharaji has brought about a very good change in my life through his message,” she said.
Professor R.K. Chauhan was similarly inspired. “Listening to Maharaji is a great privilege to me as I feel I am fortunate enough to be here. He gave a beautiful example of the sunflower’s devotion, which always aligns itself with the sun even though it is thousands of miles away,” he said. “Time and again, Maharaji reminds us to listen to our heart and not the mind.”
Ranvir Singh Sahrawat, a Group Captain in the Air Force, summed it up nicely. “Maharaji's company has enlightened me. He has presented his message today in a unique way, which I liked most.” With a broad smile on his face, he added, “A wonderful message.”
TPRF Grant Provides Food for Chilean Earthquake Victims
[Mon, 10 May 2010]
The 8.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Chile in late February has left 80% of the people of Rio Claro homeless and without stores of food for the winter. Even as high-magnitude aftershocks continue, many are facing the cold Andes winter with only makeshift shelter and no stock of provisions. The grant from The Prem Rawat Foundation (TPRF) will provide a month’s supply of food for 1,000 people most in need.
Senior adults, pregnant women, and children are particularly at risk in this town, which relies on seasonal work growing crops. The earthquake not only crumbled homes beyond repair, but disrupted water supplies, causing many crops to fail just prior to harvest time. Fundación Origen, the Chilean charity receiving the grant, is focusing on providing food for the most vulnerable population through the winter months. Providing food is considered to be the most effective way of relieving people’s suffering in the area, since most other aid is dedicated to rebuilding.
As Mary Anne Müller, president of Origen, explains, “All people’s savings from our southern hemisphere summer will be spent on basic building materials, so we are working to provide food to pass this difficult time until they can recover normality.”
The food will be hauled in trucks on roads that are now treacherous, extending the drive from Santiago from five to eight hours, and will be personally delivered by Fundacion Origen staff. On average, each person will receive 5 kilos of flour, 5 kilos of lentils and beans, 3 kilos of powdered milk, 4 kilos of rice as well as oil, sugar, salt, canned fish, oatmeal and soy protein per month.
Linda Pascotto, President of The Prem Rawat Foundation, expressed, “We are happy to be able to help provide some sense of security in the coming months to these people who have lost so much. It is amazing to hear of their courageous efforts to meet the basic needs of their families in crowded improvised tents. I hope that having access to food will give them a sense of hope that they can and will recover.”
Report: Event in Jaipur, India - April 2010
[Thu, 29 Apr 2010]
It’s unbelievable to think that over fourteen thousand people could turn up on a day’s notice to listen to Maharaji, but yes, it happened. Through word of mouth as well as satellite announcement, news of the impending event in Jaipur quickly spread throughout India. Soon people were heading there in droves, traveling by whatever transport they could find: trucks and buses brimming with passengers, tractors pulling carts full of villagers, families squashed into motorized rickshaws, scooters carrying 4 to 5 at a time, not to mention hired cars and numerous bicycles. Some traveled by foot from areas nearby, while others braved a day’s journey by whatever means they could find. Two young women, Ritika and Geeta, had started their trip nearly as soon as they heard, taking a train over 700 km from faraway Kanpur.
It was one of the hottest days yet in Jaipur, with the mercury just touching 43 ºC (109.4 ºF). Despite the pressing midday heat and a later starting time of 5:00 pm, people began arriving as soon as 1:00. Enthusiasm was contagious as the gathering crowd began to move across the parched Rajasthan soil toward the awaiting field, avoiding the thick, harsh thistles that jutted from the arid ground. While many came donned in fluorescent reds, yellows, and greens, the poorer in the crowd arrived in plainer clothes, wearing smiles as bright as any garland. Many in the audience huddled close to the ground as others stood in watchful anticipation, the field filling to near capacity. Now all they had to do was wait.
The stage had been carefully assembled, and an azure blue backdrop offered a cooling touch to the otherwise overbearing heat. All was set. As the scorching sun began to lower, a humorous, articulate young lady made some announcements and then welcomed everyone “to this spectacular event.”
A separate, smaller platform had been erected close to the main stage, where musicians sat patiently waiting to perform. The introductions over, they began to strum and sing, weaving together traditional songs that many in the audience knew by heart. Soon after, Maharaji walked on stage to a thunder of applause. He began his address by questioning the nature of success, a theme he returned to throughout the evening.
“Everything in this world has the potential to be a success or not,” he told the crowd. “And if you have found success, then you will also find the opposite. And if you haven’t found success, you will again find the opposite,” he said. “They’re just two sides of the same coin: it is the coin of illusion.”
Whether or not a person achieves these more illusory versions of success, Maharaji made it clear that the recognition of this life, this breath, is the truest success. “What is your desire? Your success, your fulfillment?” he asked. “In your life, if you can experience peace in your heart, your life is a success. If you have understood this breath, everything is successful, fulfilled,” he continued.
It was pitch black as the multitude slowly left across the uneven landscape, each hoping to locate their transport. There was no moon, no streetlights, and no torches to hand. Yet this blackened night did not blacken the feeling of joy that seemed to emanate from those who had attended.
A young man named Annonai, an Area Manager of HDFC Bank, remarked that, although “it was a very hot day in Rajasthan with a lot of political disturbance in the state, we were determined to participate in this event to quench the thirst of our heart. We enjoyed the event a lot and Maharaji’s message was simple yet heart touching.”
Annonai wasn’t alone in his enthusiasm. Carlos, a visitor from Columbia, felt it most when he saw another member of the audience react to Maharaji’s words. “One of the best things — something that I haven’t seen for a long time in my life — was an Indian lady who had to have been at least 90 years old or more jumping with sheer joy. Jumping like it was unbelievable!” he said. Smiling, he added, “That’s wonderful!”
“Peace Bus” Touring Eastern Europe
[Wed, 31 Mar 2010]
The sight of an orange double-decker bus is drawing positive attention throughout the countryside of Eastern Europe. Wherever it goes, strangers can’t help being intrigued by this 1959 London relic with the words “Peace Bus” flanking its sides, the “a” in Peace the same flower that represented the “flower power” movement some 50 years ago, originally the symbol of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. It’s a nostalgic message that puts smiles on people’s faces.
The crew hails from the city of Ljubljana and, during the spring and summer, they travel from town to town throughout Slovenia and surrounding countries, often parking at festivals along the way. Wherever it goes, passersby are invited to climb the circular staircase to the upper level, where they can take time out to watch videos that talk about the possibility of peace within each individual.
The videos include presentations of Words of Peace, which showcase talks given by Prem Rawat. The common interest for everyone involved is to spread the message that they themselves so obviously enjoy. On board is the man who came up with the idea and who started the project, Sergej Vajgl, as well as a crew of volunteers: Garik, Mitja, Lucka, Majda, Petra, Andrej, Stoyan, Vlasta, Mirza, Sana, Biska, and Ales.
The spacious old bus has its own built-in “showroom.” Wherever they stop, the crew hands out materials from Words of Peace Global, inviting people inside to experience some inspiration. Guests are often charmed by the experience and eager to watch videos about how peace is possible.
How It All Began
The initiative to start the “Peace Bus” project came a few years ago when Sergej Vajgl thought of buying a vintage bus, fixing it up, and sharing the message of Maharaji. He soon found a classic 1959 English-style double-decker that, due to its years, needed total renovation. Sergej and friends got to work revamping the engine, freshly painting the exterior, and refitting the upstairs so that it could be used as screening room.
“The bus has everything we need to tell people about Prem Rawat and his message. It has allowed us to reach local communities in distant places where many people have never before heard his message. Also, the bus itself is extraordinary and charming. It attracts many people,” Sergev says.
A Public Star
The first official outing of the “Peace Bus” happened in the spring of 2009 over a period of three days in the small town of Litija, Slovenia. During this initial run, the team had a chance to talk about the “Peace Bus” project with local social groups and community managers. Several organizers were excited about what they heard and expressed an interest in sharing this message with people in their social networks. The director of the Litija elementary school burst out, “If you had only told us about this project two weeks ago! We would have organized a full bus of people every hour!”
In October last year, the “Peace Bus” became the star of the Student Arena Festival in Ljubljana, the capitol of Slovenia. Over the course of the three days of the festival, Sergej and a team of volunteers shared Prem Rawat’s message with a few thousand people. More than 500 took time to sit down and watch the videos.
The team has just launched their 2010 tour and, encouraged by the positive experiences of last year, plan on making it an even more extensive trip this time around. Their travel plans include neighboring countries such as Croatia, Bosnia, Herzegovina, Serbia, and Hungary, where over 500,000 people come to visit some large festivals. Once again they’re hitting the road, inspired by this beautiful message and their collective free spirit.
The project is also in line with the government’s policy to further a cultural and social dialogue among different nations in this recently war-torn region, and Sergej hopes for further collaboration with the European Union to support this wonderful endeavor.
Those who wish to contact the team may do so by emailing Sergej at Vajglsergej@hotmail.com.
Report: Event in Miami, Florida - March 2010
[Wed, 24 Mar 2010]
On March 13, over 1,700 people gathered to listen to Maharaji in Miami, the second event to be hosted by WOPG’s sister organization Words of Peace International. Some had heard little about him, while some were people who had come to hear him again and again to benefit from his inspiration and perspective. For the volunteers who helped with every aspect of the event, it was a matter of passion and joy. “I’ve always found that helping to prepare an event prepares me to see him,” recounted Susan Alaimo, who helped organize seating. Gladys Stone, an usher, confessed that “being with Prem Rawat is one of the highlights of my life. I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to help out.”
The event was open and free of charge to all who wished to attend. People flew in from as far away as England, France, Switzerland, Venezuela, Brazil, Jamaica, and Canada, not to mention various states within the continental US. They were drawn there by one common wish: to hear Maharaji speak live. Amalia, another attendee and willing volunteer, seemed to sum it up well. She explained how other types of events “end when they’re over. With Prem Rawat, the experience of his words continues growing and growing.”
Larry Newcomb, who had long been inspired by Maharaji, had a close friend who was currently trying to surmount some battles in his own life. Curious, his friend began to ask Larry some questions about Maharaji when, as luck would have it, an event was happening that very next day in his friend’s hometown of Miami. “You can hear Maharaji live, if you want,” Larry said.
The following is an excerpt from his email to Larry after the event, thanking him for the invitation.
“I found the session stimulating and rewarding. I can see why you’ve been so attracted to Prem Rawat.
“One very inviting element of the presentation was the audience. There were about 1,500 people in the Knight Center, and it was the most responsive audience I’ve been with for some time.
“The lecture resonated with me, too. I like the emphasis of looking inward instead of reaching for outside authorities, either institutional or individual. I also liked his emphasis on the battles that we win and lose and our ultimate, accountable war.
“Thanks again for alerting me to an exceptional person.”
Larry’s friend wasn’t the only happily surprised, and last minute, attendee. Andrea Gomes, originally from Brazil, had never heard of Maharaji until a few days before the event. Passing by a Florida book fair, she noticed Maharaji’s picture on the front cover of the book Peace Is Possible. She was immediately intrigued, and wanted to learn more about who this man could be. As circumstance would have it, the event had just been announced, and the woman behind the book counter knew about it. She promptly invited Andrea to attend.
Speaking to Andrea after the event, she was clearly excited by both the speaker and his message. “I would love to speak with him in person, and hope one day I may be able to do so,” she said.
Also present was Mercy Da Mata, whose parents have known about Maharaji for a long time. “Growing up, I never quite understood what all the commotion and excitement was about. But when I opened my heart and listened, it became clear. I’ve never heard anyone speak so simply yet so deeply at the same time.”
Maharaji concluded the night by reminding his audience what it means to win the war. “The war is to find your home and rightfully reside in it. Enjoy it. That is winning the war. Battles? They will come and go,” he said. “Win the war.”
Report: Event in Santa Monica, California – March 2010
[Tue, 16 Mar 2010]
Maharaji launched his 2010 world tour at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, where he was welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd of nearly 2,250. Although he was speaking to an audience of thousands, he began by making it clear that his words applied equally to each individual. “What is this message all about? Really, it goes back to what this life is all about, what this existence is all about,” he said. “Even more so, it goes back to this little story that is yours. Your story.”
His words profoundly touched many of his guests. Jennifer Edwards, actress and mother, commented, “I feel the utmost hope when I listen to him. I feel senses and nerve endings I never even knew I had. When I see him live, there’s a connection, an energy,” she said. “I’ve never been an unhappy person. I’ve been able to make myself happy on the outside, but I always knew something was lacking. When I first heard Maharaji, what he said made total sense to me. I thought, ‘Ah, that’s what I’ve been looking for.’”
Jennifer brought her 17-year-old daughter Hannah Schneider, who noted, “I feel a ton lighter right now coming out of that room. Prem Rawat's message has been an inspiration and guiding force in my mother's life. I have just recently been introduced to him. And I can say it has greatly affected mine as well.” She added that, “Although what Prem Rawat speaks of is so simple, we all need to be reminded of this miracle of breath we are given each second of every day. We have to be reminded that the peace we seek lies within us. It always has, and always will.”
(Last check for latest updates: 4 hr 33 min ago)courtesy: WOPG
