HINDUISM RELIGIOUS PRACTICES AND VEDIC ASTROLOGY TOPIC

Rahu Mahadasha | Rahu vimshottari maha dasha and antardashas

Results of Rahu vimshottari Mahadasha

The planet Rahu is one of the most malefic planets in our astrological arena and is perceived to bring most of adverse impacts upon human life. It makes the life of a person tough and carry harshness and hurdles in people’s life. The natives of shadow planet Rahu would require to walk over a fragile path and would be made to confront many obstacles as it is very rare and with very few combination of placement when Rahu emerges benefic and positive.

The Rahu mahadasha or major period is generally believed to be a segment of agony and miseries when difficulties would be present in most of the aspects and the person would confront much hardship. It would be a state of highly unstable form of mind with much fluctuations in life and distress to the person. The native would see many failures and would confront some loss of wealth as well in this phase.

The native could get involved in immoral and evil deeds in this segment and would get inclined towards materialistic pleasures besides this, there would be fears due to thieves, poisonous stuff, weapons and authority. The native would get enclosed with many enemies and would face separation from his/her closed ones. People won’t be supportive towards the native in the Rahu mahadasha and he/she could also face loss of respect and position.

There could be some change in the personal and professional places and some diseases including veneral diseases, asthma, urinary ailments and weakness are also possible besides which the person would become unreasonably aggressive at times. On the other part, the positive placement of planet Rahu could reverse all the impacts and could bring goodness in lives.

Effects of Antar Dasha of RAHU in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: The mind may be misled and mental tension increases. Wife may be ailing and conflicts are possible. Loss of wealth, sorrow, ailments, poison and fear of poisonous being prevails, wicked people may cause agony. There will be danger from thieves, distress from wounds, antagonism with government officials, destruction of realtives, distress to wife and children. There will be distress and diseases.

REMEDY : DONATE URAD DAAL, BLACK TIL (sesame), BLUE CLOTHES, WOOLEN BLACK BLANKET TO SWEEPER OR LOWER CASTE. SUGAR TO ANTS AND EGGS TO SNAKES NOT MILK. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Effects like acquisition of a kingdom (attainment of a high position in government), enthusiasm, and cordial relations with the king (government), happiness from wife and children, and increase in property.Good fortune is possible.Effects of Antar Dasha of JUPITER in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: Loss of wealth, obstacles in work defamation, distress to wife and children, heart disease, entrustment of governmental authority, etc. Loss of wealth, and distress to body. There will be danger of premature death.

REMEDY : WORSHIP LORD SHIVA IDOL MADE OF GOLD.

GOOD EFFECTS: Interest in worshipping God and in superior shastras arise. One may undertake religious pilgrimages, seek the company of sages and perform pious, religious deeds. Fame may be attained in knowledge, friendship with officials, bliss of children and sufficient wealth may be attained. Ailments and enemies may be overcome, good health and enthusiasm prevails. Effects like gain of position, patience, destruction or foes, enjoyment, cordial relations with the king (government), regular increase in wealth and property like the growth of Moon of the bright half of the month ( Shukla Paksh), gain of conveyance and cows. Audience with the king ( high government officials) by performing journey to the West or South East, success in the desired ventures, return to one's homeland, doing good for Brahmins, visit to holy places. Gain of a village, devotion to deities and Brahmins, happiness from wife, children, and grand children, availability of sweetish preparations daily.

Effects of Antar Dasha of SATURN in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: Imprudent acts may cause losses. There is a possibility of loss of position and incurring the anger of the state. · Quarrels with dear ones, unhappiness for friends and residing in far off lands is possible. One may suffer injury on some part of the body and there may be ailments due to gastric and blood infection. Loss of wealth caused by the king (government officials) during journey to the West, reduction in income due to lethargy, return to homeland. · Danger from menials, the king, and enemies, distress to wife and children, distress to relatives, disputes with the coparceners, disputes in dealings with others, but sudden gain of ornaments. There will be heart disease, defamation, quarrels, danger from enemies, foreign journeys, affliction with Gulma (enlargement of the skin), unpalatable food, and sorrows, etc

REMEDY : CHANT MAHA MRITYUNJAY MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY. GIVE BLACK COW OR BUFFALO IN CHARITY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Effects like pleasure of the king for devotion in his service, auspicious functions like celebration of marriage, etc at home, construction of a garden, reservoir, etc., gain of wealth and cattle from well to do persons belonging to the Sudra class
Effects of Antar Dasha of MERCURY in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: There will be opprobrium (Ninda) of deities and Brahmins by the native, loss of fortune, speaking lies, unwise actions, fear from snakes, thieves, and the government, quarrels, distress to wife and children.

REMEDY : DONATE URAD DAAL, BLACK TIL (sesame), BLUE CLOTHES, WOOLEN BLACK BLANKET TO SWEEPER OR LOWER CASTE. SUGAR TO ANTS AND EGGS TO SNAKES NOT MILK. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Good health, intelligence and prudence increases. Love for brothers and friends increases and help is attained from friends. Worldly comforts are increased, wealth and progress in business is attained. Auspicious effects like Raj Yog, well being in the family, profits and gain of wealth in business, comforts of conveyances, marriage and other auspicious functions, increase in the number of cattle, gain of perfumes, comforts of bed, women. Good results like Raj Yog, beneficence of the king, and gain of wealth and reputation, will be realized particularly on Wednesday in the month of Mercury. Sound health, Isht Siddhi, attending discourse on Puranas and ancient history, marriage, offering of oblations, charities, religious inclination, and sympathetic attitude towards others.
Effects of Antar Dasha of KETU in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: There is a possibility of state displeasure and loss of wealth and fame. Wife and son may suffer hardships, animals may die and one may be assaulted by many problems. There may be pain due to ailments caused by fever etc., fear of thieves, fire, weapons and poison and by conflicts. One may have to wander, incur state displeasure, suffer from ailments caused by gas and fever and there may be loss of animals. There will be distress to the body and mental tension. Effects like danger from thieves and snakes, distress from wounds, separation from parents, antagonistic relations with realtives, mental agony, etc. There will be distress to the body.

REMEDY : GIVE AWAY GOAT IN CHARITY. DONATE URAD DAAL, BLACK TIL (sesame), BLUE CLOTHES, WOOLEN BLACK BLANKET TO SWEEPER OR LOWER CASTE. SUGAR TO ANTS AND EGGS TO SNAKES NOT MILK. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.
Effects of Antar Dasha of VENUS in the Maha Dasha of Rahu

BAD EFFECTS: Very little money may be earned in work and business inspite of immense struggle. Friends may cause agony and fear of opposition with the family prevails. Ailments related to urinary organs may occur. Effects like danger from the wrath of Brahmins, snakes, and the king (government) possibility of a affliction with diseases like stoppage of urine, diabetes , pollution of blood , anemia, availability of only coarse food, nervous disorder, imprisonment, loss of wealth as a result of penalties or fines imposed by government . There will be distress to wife and children. There will be diseases, quarrels, separation from one's son or father, distress to relatives, disputes with coparceners, danger of death to oneself or to one's employer, unhappiness to wife and children, pain in the stomach, etc.

REMEDY : WORSHIP GODDESS GURGA AND LAKSHMI. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: One may become a minsiter, if already a minister than chief minister or more upper grade, one may go abroad and prosper there. Effects like gains of wealth through Brahmins, increase in the number of cattle, celebrations for the birth of a son, well being, recognition from government, acquisition of a kingdom, attainment of a high position in government, great enjoyment and comforts, etc. Construction of a new house, availability of sweet preparations, happiness from wife and children, association with friends, giving of grains etc., in charity, beneficence of the king (government), gain of conveyances and clothes extraordinary profits in business, celebration of Upasayan ceremony of wearing the sacred thread ('Janou'). Enjoyments from perfumes, bed, music, etc., gain of a desired object, fulfillment of desires will be the results.
Effects of Antar Dasha of SUN in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: Fevers, dysentery, other diseases, quarrels, antagonism with the king (government), travels, danger from foes, thieves, fire.There will be danger of critical illness. There is a possibility of pain due to eye, heart and infections disease.

REMEDY : WORSHIP LORD SURYA AND GIVE WATER TO HIM IN EARLY MORNING. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Many upheavals may be quieted down. Wealth and prosperity and interest in charity and religion increase. · Enemies may cause agony and fear of king, poison, fire and weapons prevails. Effect like cordial relations with the king (government), increase in wealth and grains, some popularity /respect, some possibility of becoming head of a village, etc. There will be good reputation and encouragement and assistance by government, journeys to foreign countries, acquisition of the sovereignty of the country, gains of elephants, horse, clothes, ornaments, fulfillment of ambitions, happiness to children. Well being in every way and recognition frEffects of Antar Dasha of MOON in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: Circumstances causing anxiety may arise. There may be a conflict with the dear ones, opposition with friends and increase in the number of enemies. Money may come in with difficulty and food may be attained. Daughter in law may expire, fear of water prevails and conflicts cause unhappiness. There will be the creation of disturbances at home and in the agricultural activities by evil spirits, leopards, and other wild animals, danger from thieves during journeys, and stomach disorders.

REMEDY : GIVE AWAY WHITE COW OR FEMALE BUFFALO IN CHARITY. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Effects like acquisition of a kingdom (attainment of high position in government), respect from the king ( high officials of government). Gains of wealth, sound health, gains of garments and ornaments, happiness from children, comforts of conveyances, increase in house and landed property. Beneficence of the Goddess Lakshmi, all round success, increases in wealth and grains, good reputation, and worship of deities.om kings ( high dignitaries ) in foreign countries.
Effects of Antar Dasha of MARS in the Maha Dasha of Rahu.

BAD EFFECTS: Many upheavals and movements may arise. Physical pain, lack of enthusiasm and loss of memory are possible. Position may be lost and fear of king, thieves, fire and weapons prevail. Public opinion, residing in one's native land, wife and son may be disturbed or harmed. Distress of wife, children, and co-borns, loss of position, antagonistic relations with children, wife , and other close relations, danger from thieves, wounds and pain in the body.

REMEDY : GIVE AWAY COW OR BULL IN CHARITY. CHANT RAHU MANTRA ATLEAST 324 TIMES A DAY.

GOOD EFFECTS: Effects like the recovery of a lost kingdom (reinstatement in a high position in government) and recovery of lost wealth, property at home, and increase in agricultural production, gain of wealth, blessings by the household deity (Isht Dev) , happiness from children, enjoyment of good food, etc. There will be acquisition of red coloured garments, journeys, audience with the king (meeting with high governmental officials), well being of children and employer, attainment of the position of a commander of the army, enthusiasm, and gain of wealth through relatives.

Your poor joints are stiff, inflamed and achy from osteoarthritis—but the medications that reduce your pain also can have serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney damage, and increased risk for heart attack and stroke.
Safer solution: Consider the Ayurvedic approach to osteoarthritis treatment, which relies on natural herbs and spices to bring relief, suggested Nancy Lonsdorf, MD, author of The Ageless Woman: Natural Health and Beauty After Forty with Maharishi Ayurveda. (Men, this arthritis relief works for you, too.)
The following four Ayurvedic arthritis remedies have been used in ancient Indian medicines and in cooking for more than 5,000 years. And they really work—a study presented at a meeting of the American College of Rheumatology showed a combination herbal Ayurvedic therapy to be as effective in treating knee osteoarthritis as the commonly prescribed medication celecoxib (Celebrex). Dr. Lonsdorf recommended…

Boswellia (Indian frankincense). This comes from the resin of the Boswellia serrata plant. It works by blocking an enzyme involved in the formation of leukotrienes, chemicals that trigger inflammation. Note: Boswellia may cause a reaction in people who are allergic to ragweed, and it can irritate the gastrointestinal tract (especially if taken alone rather than in a balanced combination formula as traditionally used) .
Turmeric. The active ingredient in this spice, curcumin, interferes with three important inflammation-producing enzymes—so it disrupts the inflammatory process at three different stages, said Dr. Lonsdorf. Turmeric also may provide some protection against the damage that pain-relieving medications can do to the gastrointestinal tract.
Ginger. Various studies have demonstrated ginger’s ability to reduce pain and inflammation by interfering with inflammatory enzymes. Bonus: Ginger also aids digestion. Why should that matter? Because according to Ayurvedic principals, poor digestion is a primary trigger for arthritis. Dr. Lonsdorf explained, “When we eat improper foods or our digestion is weak, food is not broken down into small molecules, so larger-than-normal molecules get absorbed into the bloodstream. These biochemical impurities circulate, eventually getting localized in a tissue and initiating swelling. When the affected tissue is a joint, the result is arthritis.”
Ashwagandha. This herb is also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng. Lab studies suggest that it has anti-inflammatory properties that protect against cartilage damage. In addition, animal studies provide evidence that the herb combats stress. Dr. Lonsdorf explained, “When we are stressed, the hormones cortisol and epinephrine cause a breakdown of various body tissues. Ashwagandha helps alleviate the damaging effects of stress by restoring the proper hormonal balance to the nervous system, which in turn strengthens the immune system and further reduces inflammation.” Caution: Since Ashwagandha makes your immune system more active, it is not appropriate for people who have an autoimmune disorder, including rheumatoid arthritis. Rarely, Ashwagandha can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

USING AYURVEDIC HERBS

Ayurvedic herbal products are available in health-food stores and online. For maximum convenience and effect, Dr. Lonsdorf recommended that osteoarthritis patients take an herbal supplement that combines several of the herbs and spices listed above, such as Maharishi Ayurveda’s Flexcel, which contains boswellia, ashwagandha and ginger as well as other natural ingredients that further support joint and bone health. This product does not contain turmeric, so Dr. Lonsdorf suggested using the spice liberally in the kitchen. “Turmeric added to food is more important than in a formula because you can get much a greater quantity that way. I recommend adding turmeric to every meal and cooking it into each dish, even if only in small amounts, for its cumulative anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection,” she said.
Important: According to a Boston University study, some commercial Ayurvedic herbal remedies contain lead, mercury and/or arsenic in amounts exceeding regulatory standards. Dr. Lonsdorf endorses Maharishi Ayurveda (mapi.com), a company that has been in business for nearly 30 years. If you are interested in a different brand, to guard against contamination, Dr. Lonsdorf suggested, “Contact the seller to make sure the company tests every batch in the US for heavy metals, as well as for parasites and fungus.”
To make sure that the specific ingredients are safe and appropriate for you and to get dosage recommendations, consult a physician who is knowledgeable about Ayurvedic medicine

The urea and Creatinine are wastes formed as a result of metabolic reactions in the body. The urea is formed by protein breakdown and creatinine is usually a muscle metabolic waste formed by breakdown of Creatinine.
In normal healthy persons, the body maintains its urea and creatinine levels. The blood urea levels are maintained in healthy humans. In case of some medical condition, the levels become imbalanced and cause derangement in the normal body functioning.

WHAT IS DIALYSIS?

Dialysis can be defined as an artificial system to remove excess of metabolic and other wastes from the blood in people with renal failure who have weak kidneys that cannot handle the metabolic load. The dialysis can be used in case of acute kidney dysfunctioning or in case of chronic kidney failure.

WHEN DOES A PATIENT REQUIRE DIALYSIS?

The condition in which a patient requires dialysis is when the body metabolic wastes increase in the blood rather than passing out through urine. The blood becomes more and more saturated with these wastes and the person becomes sick. It is an indicator that the kidneys are unable to handle the heavy solute filtrate and therefore the blood is not cleansed completely.
When the kidneys cannot take the load of these metabolic wastes itself, the body becomes sick regularly due to accumulation of the metabolic wastes. The body is not able to remove the excess fluid and electrolytes from the body. The patient starts complaining of problems of liver, kidneys, and heart. In such cases, the artificial dialysis system comes into play. It helps to clean the body of metabolic wastes and filter the blood.

HOW CAN AYURVEDA HELP PEOPLE ON DIALYSIS?

Ayurvedic system of medicine is an ancient Indian system of medicine that uses the inherent power of herbs to help diseases in a natural and healthy way. We in Ayurveda believe that the body is controlled by three different energies which are Vada, Pitta, and Kappha. These energies maintain the balance in our bodies and any imbalance in these energies may disorient the body system.
The ayurvedic herbs help the renal failure cases in a natural, herbal way and the patient recovers from kidney failure in a healthy way. The person gains immunity naturally and the body becomes stronger and regains its strength. The kidney tissue becomes stronger and the nephrons increase in size and number for better functioning of the kidneys. In this way, Ayurvedic herbs for renal failure help a person without the use of external dialysis.

HERBS FOR UREA/CREATININE/DIALYSIS

EMBLICA OFFICINALIS (AMALAKI)

The herb is known for its rejuvenating properties. It is a natural antioxidant that removes free radicals from the body and helps in regeneration of cells. Amla helps in increasing the body vitality and strengthening immunity. It helps in developing healthy, glowing skin and preventing premature aging. Anemia and blood related disorders are helped in a natural way. It helps in maintaining proper functioning of the liver. It aids digestion by soothing hyperacidity. This wonderful herb helps in improving immunity and boosting metabolism. The herb helps gain youthful skin and beauty. Amla has aphrodisiac, antipyretic, cardio-tonic, anti-diabetic, cerebral and gastrointestinal properties. It prevents premature greying of hair, hair loss and promotes hair and nail growth. It enhances eye sight, keeps the mouth clean, and nourishes bones and teeth. It helps to keep the intestine clean and also controls blood sugar. Amla is used to prepare Amla Saar and Amalaki Rasayan capsules.

TERMINALIA CHEBULA (HARITAKI)

Haritaki is an important constituent of Triphala that has wonderful health benefits. It acts well in gastrointestinal ailments, in cases of spleenomegaly, hepatomegaly, tumors, ascites, and anemias. Its powder, when mixed with honey and ghee, is an effective remedy for anemia. The herb improves memory and is salutary in dysuria and urinary stones. Haritaki helps in improving appetite and helps in the digestion. In anemia of any origin, Haritaki herb is highly beneficial. It helps anemia due to haemoglobin deficiency, anemia due to red blood cell deficiency, and anemias of abnormal form origin. Haritaki is used in Vara churna.

TERMINALIA BELERICA (VIBHITAKI)

A very important herb in the Ayurvedic world, Vibhitaki is famous for its wonderful use in the formation of Triphala. It has numerous health benefits on the human body. Its action on the heart makes it an excellent heart tonic. It helps in purifying blood, thinning of blood, and removing toxins. It is used in cases of low RBC count and low haemoglobin. Vibhitaki helps cases of anemia of any origin and help regain healthy haemoglobin count and form. Our product Vara churna has Vibhitaki.

BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA (PUNARNAVA)

Punarnava is a wonderful Ayurvedic remedy with diuretic properties and increases the renal blood flow. It has astringent, bitter, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. It is an excellent kidney and heart tonic. This medicine is useful in maintaining the health of the skin. These capsules can clear excess Kapha from the stomach and chest. They act as a rejuvenator and can be used in relieving impaired urinary condition. They are very useful in the reduction of excess body fluids, congestion and edema due to excess Kapha. Punarnava has properties to clear toxins from the blood and increase red blood cells in the body. The haemoglobin content increases and oxygen carrying capacity increases. They act in the prevention of pain and intestinal spasms. Punarnava capsules are recommended in relieving diabetes. They are useful in relieving swollen joints because of fluid retention caused because of imbalance in Kapha. This herbal medicine is useful in eliminating toxins accumulated in the joints through kidneys and urine. It is effective in the management of arthritis and gout. It is helpful in the breakdown of the ‘fibrin’, a blood clotting protein. Punarnava is very effective in relieving infections of urinary tract. It is used in Varunadi vati and Punarnava mandur capsules.

TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS (GOKSHURA)

Tribulus is a wonderful herb for strength and stamina. It helps improve the immunity which enhances the self esteem and self confidence in men. Tribulus herb for prostate health and power helps improve erectile dysfunction. It increases sperm count as well as sperm quality as it is rich in antioxidants so it works as a supplement. It has anti aging and strength giving properties. The herb increases male fertility naturally. It increases libido in men and reduces lack of desire for sex. The Tribulus herb is added to Rencure formula.

CURCUMIN LONGA (TURMERIC)

Anti-oxidants present in the herb reduce the free- radicals from the body thereby improving the health and immunity. Curcumin herb has rich anti-diabetic properties that make it a wonderful herb to use for diabetic patients. It is a famous Chinese medicine to relieve digestive and liver related diseases. Its anti- inflammatory properties make it a strong herb for various allergies, infections and inflammations. The herb has the power to fight against toxins and infections owing to its rich anti-biotic properties. It is used in many cosmetics due to its beneficial actions on the skin. Punarnava mandur capsules are prepared using it.

Sanskrit

प्रभुं प्राणनाथं विभुं विश्वनाथं जगन्नाथ नाथं सदानन्द भाजाम् ।
भवद्भव्य भूतॆश्वरं भूतनाथं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

गलॆ रुण्डमालं तनौ सर्पजालं महाकाल कालं गणॆशादि पालम् ।
जटाजूट गङ्गॊत्तरङ्गै र्विशालं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

मुदामाकरं मण्डनं मण्डयन्तं महा मण्डलं भस्म भूषाधरं तम् ।
अनादिं ह्यपारं महा मॊहमारं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

वटाधॊ निवासं महाट्टाट्टहासं महापाप नाशं सदा सुप्रकाशम् ।
गिरीशं गणॆशं सुरॆशं महॆशं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ ॥ 4 ॥

गिरीन्द्रात्मजा सङ्गृहीतार्धदॆहं गिरौ संस्थितं सर्वदापन्न गॆहम् ।
परब्रह्म ब्रह्मादिभिर्-वन्द्यमानं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

कपालं त्रिशूलं कराभ्यां दधानं पदाम्भॊज नम्राय कामं ददानम् ।
बलीवर्धमानं सुराणां प्रधानं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

शरच्चन्द्र गात्रं गणानन्दपात्रं त्रिनॆत्रं पवित्रं धनॆशस्य मित्रम् ।
अपर्णा कलत्रं सदा सच्चरित्रं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

हरं सर्पहारं चिता भूविहारं भवं वॆदसारं सदा निर्विकारं।
श्मशानॆ वसन्तं मनॊजं दहन्तं, शिवं शङ्करं शम्भु मीशानमीडॆ

स्वयं यः प्रभातॆ नरश्शूल पाणॆ पठॆत् स्तॊत्ररत्नं त्विहप्राप्यरत्नम् ।
सुपुत्रं सुधान्यं सुमित्रं कलत्रं विचित्रैस्समाराध्य मॊक्षं प्रयाति ॥

Meaning

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who is the Lord, Who is the Lord of our lives, Who is Vibhu, Who is the Lord of the world, Who is the Lord of Viṣṇu (Jagannātha), Who is always dwelling in happiness, Who imparts light or shine to everything, Who is the Lord of living beings, Who is the Lord of ghosts, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||1||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who has a garland of skull around the neck, Who has a net of snakes around His body, Who is the destroyer of the immense-destroyer Kāla, Who is the lord of Gaṇeśa, Whose matted-hair are spread-out by the presence of the waves of Gańgā falling on His head, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||2||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who scatters happiness [in the world], Who is ornating the universe, Who is the immense universe Himself, Who is possessing the adornment of ashes, Who is without a beginning, Who is without a measure, Who removes the greatest attachments, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||3||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who resides below a Vaṭa (Banyan) tree, Who possesses an immense laughter, Who destroys the greatest sins, Who is always resplendent, Who is the Lord of Himālaya, various tormentor-groups (Gaṇa) and the demi-gods, Who is the great Lord, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||4||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who shares half of His body with the daughter of Himālaya¹, Who is situated in a mountain (Kailāsa), Who is always a resort for the depressed, Who is the Ātman, Who is reverred by (or Who is worthy of reverence by) Brahma and others, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||5||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who holds a skull and a trident in the hands, Who endows the desires of those who are humble to His lotus-feet, Who uses an Ox as a vehicle², Who is supreme and above various demi-gods, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||6||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who has a face like the Winter-moon, Who is the subject of happiness of Gaṇa (tormentor groups), Who has three eyes, Who is pure, Who is the friend of Kubera (controller of wealth), Who is the consort of Aparṇā (Pārvatī), Who has eternal characteristics, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||7||

I pray You, Śiva, Śańkara, Śambhu, Who is known as Hara, Who has a garland of snakes, Who roams around the cremation grounds, Who is the universe, Who is the summary of the Veda (or the One discussed by Veda), Who is always dispassionate, Who is living in the cremation grounds, Who is burning desires born in the mind, and Who is the Lord of everyone.||8||

Those who study this prayer every morning with effulgence and emotions for Trident-holding Śiva, achieve Mokṣa, after having attained a dutiful son, wealth, friends, wife, and a colorful life.||9||

...

It was during an impromptu meeting with intellectuals and seekers at Punjabi poet Amrita Pritam's house in Delhi, India, that Sai Kaka casually revealed: "I have been to Gyanganj several times over the past half decade." Or, rather, he is taken there every time by a sage—for spiritual instruction and immortal teachings.

This instruction must be of a high order because the 50-plus, bearded and white-robed Sai Kaka has now been teaching whoever approaches him. The man from Sangli in the south-western Indian state of Maharashtra, who studied with Swami Muktananda and Nisargadatta Maharaj, is always on the move, having chosen not to raise an ashram or an organization.

On questioning, he replies in chaste Hindi that Gyanganj exists on a different plane, a higher dimension—a shambala. But, yes, on the gross level it has parallel locations in known places on earth.

So, is there a secret territory in our midst, which has uncannily escaped all geographical surveys? A place that provides the perfect environment and opportunities for spiritual evolution? A place from where thousands of immortals and faultlessly sage beings plan the evolution of the human race, in fact, of all sentient beings?

Down-to-earth empirical reality or just bad science fiction?

Well, the belief that such a place exists, camouflaged and secluded somewhere in the deep Himalayas, has filtered down through Indian and Tibetan traditions.

Contemporary references to it are plenty, as is the testimony of people like Sai Kaka who declare they have been there. The belief in a sequestered valley of immortals seems to be headed for immortality .

In Tibet, this legendary land of spiritual enlightenment is known as Shambala, a Sanskrit word which to the Tibetans means "the source of happiness". It is not heaven on earth but a mystical kingdom that guards the most sacred and secret spiritual teachings of the world, including the Kalachakra (Wheel of Time), the pinnacle of Buddhist wisdom.

Buddhists trace Shambala to Gautama Buddha who is said to have assumed the form of the Kalachakra deity before his death and delivered his highest teaching to a group of adepts and gods in south India. Among those present was King Suchandra, the first king of Shambala, who wrote down the sermons and took them back with him.

Various Buddhist texts give instructions for finding Shambala, though directions are obscure. It is assumed that only accomplished yogis will find it. The kingdom is hidden in the mists of the snow mountains and can be reached only by flying over them with the help of siddhis or spiritual powers. James Hilton's novel, Lost Horizon, about the lost kingdom of Shangri-La, was inspired by the legend of Shambala. Shangri-La has since come to mean a remote, beautiful, imaginary place where life approaches perfection; utopia, in short.

Shambala was not a figment of the imagination for Madame Blavatsky , founder of the Theosophical Society . She considered it the abode of the mahatmas or spiritual adepts, in the mountains of Tibet, Mongolia and India. They live on through centuries in various incarnations, perpetuating the knowledge of earlier, more spiritually advanced, civilizations like the Egyptian and the Greek, and teach it to worthy pupils.

One of these adepts, Koot Hoomi (or Kuthumi Baba, at least 500 years old) was Blavatsky's guru.

In India, this secret, sacred land is known as Gyanganj or Siddhashram. References to Gyanganj or secret ashrams can be found in Hindu scriptures such as Valmiki Ramayan and Mahabharat. Guru Nanak called it Sach Khand.

Closer to our time, Paramahansa Yogananda, in his celebrated Autobiography of a Yogi wrote about meeting his guru's guru's guru, Mahavatar Babaji, an immortal of great age who looks forever young and continues to live in the Badrinath section of the Himalayas.

Babaji has also appeared to some other advanced seekers and is believed to be connected with Gyanganj. For a comprehensive account of Gyanganj, Sai Kaka directs you to the writings of Gopinath Kaviraj who died in 1976. A former principal of the Government College of Sanskrit in Benaras, Kaviraj wrote a book titled Siddhabhoomi Gyanganj, which has been translated from Bengali into Hindi and published recently by Bharatiya Vidya Prakashan.

Kaviraj's main source of information was his own guru, Swami Vishudhananda, a Bengali who settled down in Benaras, a holy city in India. Vishudhananda is believed to have sojourned many times in Gyanganj where he mastered Surya Vigyan or solar science. Surya Vigyan gave him powers to manifest objects or transform one object into another by manipulating the sun's rays. In his autobiography, Yogananda describes his meeting with Vishudhananda in Calcutta and witnessing his feat of creating any perfume on demand out of thin air. Paul Brunton in his book A Search in Secret India wrote that he not only witnessed Vishudhananda create perfumes, but also bring a dead bird back to life.

Dr Narayan Dutt Shrimali, a Jodhpur-based astrologer-tantrik-guru who publishes Mantra-Tantra-Yantra Vigyan, a Hindi monthly, says he did his sadhana in Siddhashrarn, where his name was Nikhileshwarananda. It is there that he acquired occult powers. Later, his guru told him that they wanted him to return to his householder's life and spread the wisdom of Siddhashram. Literature published by him promises that initiation by him is a passport to Siddhashram. But he refuses to reveal more details of his Gyanganj connection.

Shrimali's and Kaviraj's accounts of Gyanganj are similar. They place it mainly on a flatland to the north of Kailash-Mansarovar in Tibet. It covers an area of many square miles and is surrounded by a lake (or moat) with crystal clear water. There is a bow-shaped drawbridge, which links Gyanganj to our world.

The Gyanganj end of this bridge has a gadget to lift the bridge when desired. This gadget is operated by Surya Vigyan. Kaviraj names many other places, scattered in India, as Gyanganj territory. The area on the banks of Alaknanda river is where the siddhas roam. Mandakini's riverbed is also very mysterious: spiritual giants down the centuries have beheld celestial sights there. Thus, the entire region from Rishikesh to Kailash and Yamunotri to Nandadevi is siddhaland. In Bihar, many Buddhist siddhas frequent the Giridhkoot mountain. The Nilgiris and Srisailam in south India, too, are known to harbor secret ashrams. Arunachala hill in Tamil Nadu, where Ramana Maharshi set up his ashram, is another siddhaland. In the west, Girnaur mountain has seen siddha activity.

Teaching in arts and sciences including medicine, rasayan shastra, music and astrology also goes on here. Indians, of course, do not have a monopoly over Gyanganj. People from other parts of the world, including many Tibetan lamas, live there too.

Sai Kaka adds that Gyanganj functions on all three levels: "On the adhyatmic or spiritual level, it runs the universe. On the adhidevik or celestial level, the earth and water elements are absent, enabling very powerful activity. At this level, Gyanganj impacts on many planes and the beings there.

"On the adhibhautic or the grossest level," he continues, "Gyanganj siddhas provide guidance to human beings to initiate changes in the spiritual and even social fields. Suppose a seeker is stuck somewhere in his path, he could be guided in the form of an intuition, or some kriya triggered in his subtle body or his guru is inspired to do the needful."

Sai Kaka argues from his experience with, and knowledge of, Gyanganj, that all's well with whatever is going on in human affairs. "Earlier the suffering in the world would make me emotional, would pain me and fill me with compassion. Now I realize that right and wrong, good and bad exist on the relative plane—of mind, intellect and ego—and are an interplay of the three gunas.

From God's viewpoint, there is nonduality. Creation and dissolution are part of the continual flow." Though there can be no evolution in a flow, Sai Kaka concedes that Gyanganj is engaged in transforming world consciousness. Maybe with the collective consciousness rising, Gyanganj will become more manifest and easily accessible to human beings.

Gandmool nakshatras

We are born and governed by 27 nakshatras as per Moon rashi in Indian Astrology, out of which six Nakshatras viz. Ashwaini, Magha, Jayestha,Ashlesha, Mool & Rewati are collectively called as Gandmool nakshtras. Gand Mool is one of the Arisht Yoga. Usually these nakshatras are considered inauspicious but with the help of appropriate puja and rituals it gives good positive result .

Effect of Gandmool nakshatra?

Persons born under gandmool nakshatra face many obstacles in their life. From childhood to oldage to achieve their goals they face time to time many problems related to health, education, career, marriage, finance, social and other important aspects. Apart from these obstacles family members and relatives of gandmoolak are also impacted by severe inconveniences.

Benefit of gandmool puja

Gandmoolak persons are advised by vamtantra to go for its shanti puja. Gandmool nakshatra shanti puja helps to mitigate the sufferings faced by them, their family & relatives. Seeing nakshatra significance in our lives Gandmool nakshatra puja should be conducted atleast once a year in your birth month on the day your janam nakshatra falls or every month on the day our nakshatra falls to get the maximum desired benefit. It is strongly suggested that Gandmool Nakshatra Shanti is necessary to overcome all ill effects of Gand Mool Nakshtra.

here are seven subtle bodies, or layers, around the physical body, which create the auric body system (aura). It is commonly said that these layers are like an onion, and that when you peel one away, you'll reach the next, but this is not true. As you extend inward, the one before is also present within the next aura layer. For example, the outer most body is the causal, or Ketheric body. The next is layer is the celestial body, which contains itself and the causal body. As you go inward, towards the first layer (the etheric) it will be the densest because it holds all seven subtle bodies. And of course, there is the physical body, which is the densest of them all.
The seven subtle bodies can be broken down as follows: There are three physical plane bodies, three spiritual plane bodies and the astral body, which is the bridge between the lower and higher bodies (some teachings claim that the astral is the fourth in the spiritual bodies). The lower three bodies process energies dealing with the physical plane, whereas the upper three process energies from the spiritual planes. Ịt is said that the energies from the higher planes must pass through the "fire of the heart" - the heart chakra-- to reach and be of full use by the lower bodies.
Each level of the aura has its own seven chakras, which are nested within the other auric chakras. As each layer extends outwards, the chakras vibrate at higher rates. So the seven chakras within the etheric body will be vibrating at a much lower frequency then the seven chakras within the causal body. So in actuality, the base chakra, for example, will have 7 major chakras, all vibrating at different frequencies. This way, energy can be transmuted between all bodies to all chakras.
First Layer (The Etheric Body)
This is the closest energy body to the physical. It is what is made evident through Kirlian photography. The etheric body extends one quarter to two inches beyond the physical body and pulsates at about 15-20 cycles per minute. The entire body, including organs, can be perceived but it is made of a bluish (emotional) or gray light (highly active).
Second Layer (The Emotional Body)
Since this is the emotional body, it is associated with feelings. It is more fluid in nature, and does not duplicate the body, as does the etheric body. This body is about one to three inches from the physical body. Unlike the etheric body, which is blue or grayish in nature, this is more like colored clouds that change color depending on what kind of emotions the person is going through. Love, joy, excitement, and even anger will result in very brilliant hues, whereas confused emotions will result in muddy tones. This body contains all the colors in the rainbow.
Third Layer (The Mental Body)
With an even more subtle composition, the mental body holds our thoughts and mental processes. It extends three to eight inches from the body, and generally has a yellow light, which radiates around the head and shoulders, and extends to the body below. This yellow will brighten if a person is deep in thought, or concentrating on mental activities. Although the color associated with this body is yellow, other colors are evident if there is an emotion associated with the thought (stemming from the emotional body).
Fourth Layer (The Astral level)
This is the true bridge to the spiritual plane! When we start to work with this plane, and above, our perception and abilities leap from the physical to the subtle. Here we will begin to perceive energies that are not of this vibrational frequency. The body of the astral is composed of gorgeous clouds of color, which extend six inches or one foot from the body. Not only does it have the same colors of the rainbow like the emotional body, but a pink, or rose hue is often present with these colors, especially if the person is a loving one. The astral plane is also called the "emotional" plane, which ties it strongly to the heart chakra and the second subtle body (the emotional body). Because it is so closely tied to the emotions, when people fall in love, great hues of pink can be seen shooting from their heart chakra. This is also why when we are in the astral, our emotions are greatly enhanced either way. When I am with my love in the astral, it is generally free of any lower body emotions, and our love is able to flow, without restriction.
The Fifth Layer (The Etheric Template Body)
This is what you would call a template for the lower template body (the first body referenced). This is the template that exists before the physical body is formed. Although this co-exists in a different dimension, it also extends one and one half to two feet from the body and can only be seen by clairvoyants and very advanced healers. This is an important layer in healing if the lower etheric body becomes disfigured as this is the true building block to the lower etheric. This template has a dark blue hue to it.
The Sixth Layer (The Celestial Body)
This is the spiritual emotional plane where a person will feel things such as bliss, and spiritual ecstasy. When we reach the place of divine love, interconnectedness (generally through deep meditation) we are touching on this plane, which is felt through our celestial body. When we raise our level of awareness, or consciousness, to the sixth level of the aura, we have allowed a connection to happen from the heart chakra and the celestial chakra. Through this, we can love not only our fellow man (the heart chakra) but do so with divine love (celestial chakra). The colors of this body are very soft in nature (pastel) and glow softly from the body.
The Seventh Layer (The Ketheric Template or Causal Body)
This is the mental level of the spiritual plane (whereas the celestial body is the emotional level of the spiritual plane). This body contains all the other bodies within it and extends up to three and a half feet from the body, often in the shape of an egg. Its structure is made of a gold, or silvery-gold, and appears as a grid type structure, which is very durable. It pulsates and vibrates at a very high speed and within this level; we "know" we are one with God. This body also contains the main Kundalini force that runs up and down the body.
Now while the Ketheric body is the last auric level in the spiritual plane, there are other planes (such as the Cosmic plane) but they do not relate to the aura for they are beyond the aura and a different article entirely.

What's the Significance of Navratri?

During Navaratri, we invoke the energy aspect of God in the form of the universal mother, commonly referred to as "Durga," which literally means the remover of miseries of life. She is also referred to as "Devi" (goddess) or "Shakti".It is this energy, which helps God to proceed with the work of creation, preservation and destruction. In other words, you can say that God is motionless, absolutely changeless, and the Divine Mother Durga, does everything. Truly speaking, our worship of Shakti re-confirms the scientific theory that energy is imperishable. It cannot be created or destroyed. It is always there.

Why Worship the Mother Goddess?

We think this energy is only a form of the Divine Mother, who is the mother of all, and all of us are her children. "Why mother; why not father?", you may ask. Let me just say that we believe that God's glory, his cosmic energy, his greatness and supremacy can best be depicted as the motherhood aspect of God. Just as a child finds all these qualities in his or her mother, similarly, all of us look upon God as mother. In fact, Hinduism is the only religion in the world, which gives so much importance to the mother aspect of God because we believe that mother is the creative aspect of the absolute.

Why Twice a Year?

Every year the beginning of summer and the beginning of winter are two very important junctures of climatic change and solar influence.

These two junctions have been chosen as the sacred opportunities for the worship of the divine power because:

(1) We believe that it is the divine power that provides energy for the earth to move around the sun, causing the changes in the outer nature and that this divine power must be thanked for maintaining the correct balance of the universe.
2) Due to the changes in the nature, the bodies and minds of people undergo a considerable change, and hence, we worship the divine power to bestow upon all of us enough potent powers to maintain our physical and mental balance.

Why Nine Nights & Days?

Navaratri is divided into sets of three days to adore different aspects of the supreme goddess. On the first three days, the Mother is invoked as powerful force called Durga in order to destroy all our impurities, vices and defects. The next three days, the Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees the inexhaustible wealth. The final set of three days is spent in worshipping the mother as the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order have all-round success in life, we need the blessings of all three aspects of the divine mother; hence, the worship for nine nights.

Why Do You Need the Power?

Thus, I suggest you join your parents in worshipping "Ma Durga" during the Navaratri. She will bestow on you wealth, auspiciousness, prosperity, knowledge, and other potent powers to cross every hurdle of life. Remember, everyone in this world worships power, i.e., Durga, because there is no one who does not love and long for power in some form or the other.

Abstract
The innumerable recorded and researched cases of past life experiences clearly point to life after death. In all the recorded cases of reincarnations, it was found that there was a variable time lag between the death of the person and his next reincarnation on Earth. So, where do we go after death till our reincarnation on Earth? Is it a single plane of existence or are there a variety of planes of existence? If so, what are the factors that decide where we go after death? In this article, we present the answers to these and other questions about this topic. These answers are obtained through spiritual research done by seekers of the Spiritual Science Research Foundation (SSRF) with highly developed sixth sense (ESP).
Note: In order to understand this article better, it is recommended that you read the article on the three subtle basic components of Sattva, Raja and Tama.

Table of Contents [show]

1. What happens after death?

Spiritual research has shown that man is comprised of the following four basic bodies:

Physical
Mental
Causal or intellectual
Supracausal or subtle ego

The picture below is a diagrammatic representation of what a human being is comprised of.

What are we comprised of in life before death

When a person dies the physical body ceases to exist. However, the rest of his existence or consciousness continues. The existence of the person minus the physical body is known as the subtle body (linga-dēha) and it comprises of the mental, causal (intellect) and supracausal (subtle ego) bodies. This subtle body then goes to one of the 13 subtle planes of existence other than the Earth plane.

2. The 14 planes of existence in the Universe

There are 14 main planes of existence in the Universe. Seven of them are positive planes of existence and seven are negative planes of existence. The seven negative planes of existence are commonly known as Hell (Pātāl). There are numerous sub-planes within these main planes of existence.

Righteousness (Dharma) is that which accomplishes the 3 tasks of:

Keeping the social system in excellent condition
Bringing about the worldly progress of every living being
Causing progress in the spiritual realm as well.

– Shri Adi Shankaracharya

Seven positive planes of existence: The planes of existence occupied mostly by living persons and subtle bodies doing righteous deeds and engaged in spiritual practice according to the positive path of spiritual practice are known as the seven positive planes of existence or saptalok. By positive path, we mean the orientation of spiritual practice is towards God-realisation, which is the ultimate in spiritual growth.
The Earth plane is the only physical plane of existence in the Universe and is also the first plane of existence in the hierarchy of the positive planes of existence in the Universe.
Seven Negative planes of existence: These are planes of existence occupied mostly by subtle bodies that have done unrighteous deeds and are engaged in spiritual practice according to the negative path. By negative path, we mean the orientation of spiritual practice is towards attaining spiritual power, e.g. supernatural powers. This spiritual power is primarily used to enhance one’s control over others or for negative purposes. Thus all subtle bodies that go to any one of the planes of existence of Hell, by virtue of their evil intentions become ghosts.
Refer to the article on, ‘What is a ghost’?
Sub planes of existence of Hell (Narak): Every plane of existence of Hell has a sub-plane known as Narak. For example, the first plane of existence of Hell will have within it a sub-plane that is known as the first Narak. Narak is reserved for the worst ghosts (demons, devils, negative energies, etc.) in Hell. The ghosts (demons, devils, negative energies, etc.) occupying the first Narak face more severe punishment and for a longer duration than those occupying the first plane of existence of Hell.
The diagram below shows the 14 planes of existence in the Universe.

Please note:
1. For the sake of simplicity, though we have shown the planes of existence one on top of the other in this diagram, in reality they are around us in all directions. It’s just that Earth being the physically tangible plane is seen; whereas the other planes are progressively more and more subtle and hence invisible to the gross eye. In fact different people, though living on the Earth plane experience thoughts and emotions corresponding to the different planes of existence as per their spiritual level or thoughts. For example Saints, i.e. spiritually evolved people beyond the 70% spiritual level, lead an existence corresponding to the positive planes of existence of Heaven and beyond. In contrast a person planning theft experiences thoughts corresponding to the 1st plane of Hell, one planning some act aimed at harming others at 2nd plane of Hell and so on and a person planning murder experiences thoughts corresponding to the 7th plane of Hell. However no 2 planes of existence can be experienced simultaneously, i.e. a person cannot experience thoughts corresponding to 2 different planes, e.g. Heaven and Mahārlok.
2. The Nether region (Bhuvarlok) to be precise is a region that is aligned away from God. We have however depicted it as a positive plane as subtle bodies from this region still have a chance to be born on Earth to progress spiritually.
Once subtle bodies regress to any of the regions of Hell, then there is a remote possibility of their being born on Earth and progressing towards God.
An explanation behind the colour scheme used

Earth is depicted reddish as it represents action (i.e. subtle basic Raja component), as it is the only plane where we have the physical body to do something.
Heaven has been depicted in pink, which represents an abundance of happiness.
Yellow represents spiritual knowledge and an increase in the subtle basic Sattva component. It finally becomes almost white at the highest stage, which represents the close proximity to the unmanifest God principle.
The regions of Hell are represented by darker shades to black, as there is an increase in the subtle basic Tama component.

3. Heaven and the other positive planes of existence in the Universe

Plane of existence¹	Spiritual Level %	Proportion of Sattva component	Type of person	Predominant body⁶	Predominant emotion
Satya	90	95	Nearly completely knowledgeable	Subtle ego /Supracausal	Sattvik happiness (5%) Bliss & Serenity (95%)
Tapo	80	90	Highly knowledgeable	Intellect/Causal	Sattvik happiness (25%) Bliss & Serenity (75%)
Jana	70	85	More knowledgeable	Intellect/Causal	Sattvik happiness (50%) Bliss & Serenity (50%)
Mahar	60⁵	80	Knowledgeable	Intellect/Causal	Sattvik happiness⁹(75%) Bliss & Serenity (25%)¹⁰
Superior Heaven	50	75	More Merits	Intellect/Causal	More happiness
Inferior Heaven	40⁴	60	Fewer Merits	Mental body	Less happiness⁸
Nether (Bhuvarlok)²	25	40	Average	Desires part of the mental body	Unhappiness⁷
Earth	20³	33	Average	Physical	Happiness/Unhappiness

Footnotes (based on the numbers in red in the above table):

Each positive and negative plane of existence beyond the Earth (physical) plane of existence becomes more and more subtle. By subtle, we mean, that which is beyond the comprehension of the five senses, mind and intellect. Satyalok is the subtlest positive plane, and therefore is the most difficult to perceive or comprehend unless the highest sixth sense (ESP) level is attained.
Due to lack of spiritual practice and a higher proportion of demerits (sins), most people in the current era go to either the Nether world or one of the planes of existence of Hell. We generally go to the Nether world after death when the proportion of demerits (incurred due to wrong doings on Earth) is approximately 30%. Demerits typically include malice towards others and a lot of desires. The likelihood of being attacked in the Nether world by higher-level ghosts from the lower plane of existence of Hell is almost certain.
Earth is the only plane of existence where there is an amalgamation of people with varying spiritual levels. However, after death we go to the precise plane of existence corresponding to our spiritual level.
The minimum spiritual level required to attain Heaven after death is 40%. Please refer to the article, which describes what spiritual level is and the breakdown of the world population in 2016 according to spiritual level. Basically from the Spiritual science perspective, meritorious acts to attain Heaven or the higher positive planes of existence are those acts done without expectation with the objective of God-realisation. The following three criteria can be applied:
- Acts done without doership, i.e., with the outlook that God Himself is getting it done from me and hence I cannot lay claim to any credit.
- Done without expectation of acclaim or appreciation.
- Done without expectation of results. More than the acts per se, it is the attitude or outlook behind the acts that counts more.
It is important to note that subtle bodies at the borderline of just 40% and thereabouts often get pulled back by negative energies and hence remain in the Nether world (Bhuvarlok).
To attain a higher plane of existence that is beyond Heaven, one needs to be at a spiritual level higher than 60%. This can only be achieved by consistent spiritual practice according to the six basic laws of spiritual practice along with a major reduction in ego.
By predominant body, we mean the body that is most active, i.e., mental, intellect or the subtle ego. For example, in the Nether plane of existence (Bhuvarlok), the subtle bodies still have a lot of desires and attachments. As a result, quite often they become ghosts trying to fulfil some desire of theirs through their descendants or people on Earth. This leaves them open to higher-level negative energies from the lower regions of Hell; who take advantage of their cravings so as to affect people on Earth.
In the Nether world plane of existence, subtle bodies experience only unhappiness as desires cannot be fulfilled.
In the plane of existence known as Heaven, subtle bodies experience an overabundance of happiness. This happiness is much beyond the happiness experienced on Earth in quantity, quality and duration. As we go up the positive planes of existence, there is an increase in the quality of happiness and no unhappiness.
Sāttvik happiness means happiness derived from helping others without any expectations or strings attached. When ego is involved in the act, it becomes rājasik.
Serenity is a higher spiritual experience than Bliss.

3.1 Positive planes of existence and reincarnation on Earth

From the subtle planes of existence below Maharlok, people need to be reincarnated on the Earth plane of existence in order to settle their destiny and complete their give-and-take accounts. If after one’s death one attains higher regions such as Maharlok or Janalok due to higher spiritual level, one does not need to be reincarnated as all of the individual’s remaining destiny (accumulated account) can be worked out from these planes themselves. However, these evolved subtle bodies may choose to be born of their own will. They do so because of their expansive nature primarily to act as spiritual guides for humanity and to help society grow spiritually.

In some circumstances people who pass away even below the spiritual level of 60% can attain Maharlok. Here the person’s potential for further spiritual growth is considered. Through spiritual research we have found that that there are 5 factors that influence this potential for further spiritual growth.

Having a high amount of spiritual emotion (bhāv),
Having a low ego,
Having an intense desire for spiritual growth,
Doing regular spiritual practice of increasingly higher levels,
Affected or not affected by negative energies. Being affected/possessed by negative energies can severely obstruct the ability for spiritual growth. In the afterlife such affected subtle bodies even if they are at a spiritual level of 60% can be obstructed from reaching the higher subtle regions of the Universe by negative energies.

3.2 The importance of the Earth plane of existence

The Earth plane of existence is very important. It is the only plane of existence where we can make rapid spiritual growth and settle our give-and-take account in the shortest period of time. The main reason for this is that with the help of the physical body, we can do many things to enhance our spiritual growth and spiritual level and reduce the basic subtle Tama component.
Other than Earth, spiritual growth is mostly likely to occur only in the regions beyond Heaven such as Maharlok etc. This is because in Heaven, the subtle bodies run the risk of getting caught up in the unending pleasures it offers. In the Nether and Hell planes of existence, the punishment is so severe and also the distress from the other higher-level ghosts is such that it becomes very difficult to rise above the suffering to undertake any spiritual practice of value.

4. What is Hell, who goes to Hell and what is Hell like?

As one goes to lower planes of existence of Hell, as the subtle basic Sattva component progressively reduces the environment becomes less conducive to the experience of happiness.
Within the planes of existence of Hell, there are some ghosts who do certain types of spiritual practice to gain spiritual power. The highest in the hierarchy of ghosts are sorcerers from the seventh plane of existence of Hell. They have immense spiritual power almost equivalent to a Saint at the 90% spiritual level. They control all the other types of ghosts with lesser spiritual power.
As one goes deeper into the various planes of existence of Hell, i.e. from 1st to 7th, the extent of happiness experienced by the subtle bodies therein goes on decreasing and the extent of unhappiness goes on multiplying. The minimal experience of happiness is also due to being engrossed in memories of past positive events, pleasant memories of wealth in a past life, etc. The experience of unhappiness is due to memories of physical pain and insulting events, memories of unfulfilled desires, e.g. regarding education, house, career, expectation of happiness from children in past life.
The extent of punishment/pain to be endured in the various planes of existence of Hell and their associated Narak goes on increasing with the subsequent plane of existence of Hell. Also, the period of punishment to be endured in each Narak is in excess compared to the corresponding plane of existence of Hell. If we consider the punishment in first plane of existence of Hell as 100%, then the punishment in the corresponding first Narak region is 50% more, i.e. 150%.

The following table is a description of examples along with the average intensity of happiness and unhappiness we experience in the various planes of existence of Hell.

5. Movement between subtle planes of existence in the Universe

One is assigned that plane of existence which matches one’s basic nature in terms of Sattva, Raja and Tama. This is also a function of one’s spiritual level. Hence, subtle bodies from lower positive planes of existence cannot go to higher positive planes of existence and those from first or second negative planes of existence cannot go to the deeper planes of existence Hell. This is similar to how people living in the planes find breathing difficult at higher altitudes, but people staying at higher altitudes manage fine.

6. What decides where we go after death?

At the time of death, as the physical body becomes inactive the vital energy used for the functioning of the physical body is liberated into the Universe. This vital energy at the time of death propels the subtle body away from the Earth region. Just as the weight of a projectile decides how far a rocket will propel it, similarly the weight of the subtle body decides which plane of existence it goes to in the subtle planes of existence in life after death.
The ‘weight’ of the subtle body is primarily a function of the amount of the subtle basic Tama component in our being.

The 3 subtle basic components: Each one of us is made up of three subtle basic components or guṇas. These components are spiritual in nature and cannot be seen but they define our personalities. They are:

Sattva: Purity and knowledge
Raja: Action and passion
Tama: Ignorance and inertia In an average person in the current era, the basic subtle Tama component is as high as 50%.

Please read the article on the 3 subtle basic components
The more we are filled with the Raja and Tama components the more we display the following characteristics which add to our ‘weight’ and impact which plane of existence we go to in our life after death:

More attachment to worldly things and selfishness
More unfulfilled desires
Feelings of revenge
Higher amount of demerits or wrong-doings
Higher amount of personality defects such as anger, greed, fear, etc.
A higher amount of ego: By ego we mean how much a person identifies himself with his body, mind and intellect as opposed to the soul within
Resulting in lower spiritual level

A permanent reduction in the proportion of the subtle basic Tama component and the related characteristics mentioned above come about only with sustained spiritual practice according to the six basic laws of spiritual practice. Psychological improvements with self-help books or trying to be nice are at best superficial and temporary.

6.1 Importance of the mental state at the time of death

The mental state at the point of death, apart from what has been mentioned above, is very important. Our mental state is generally relative to the proportion of the subtle basic components in our being.
If a person is actually doing his spiritual practice such as chanting the Name of God at the time of death then the influence of desires, attachments, ghosts, etc. are minimal possible for that person compared to his state when not chanting. This makes his subtle body lighter. Hence, if he passes away while chanting, he attains better plane of existence among the sub-planes than what he would have attained were he to pass away without chanting.
At the time of death, if a person is chanting the Name of God and is also in a state of surrender to God’s will, then he attains an even better plane of existence in his life after death and his sojourn is undertaken with lightening speed. This is because the person being in a state of surrender on Earth plane of existence itself, has very less chance of increasing his ego in his life after death. Also, the entire responsibility of his well-being in his life after death is undertaken by his evolved spiritual guide (Guru).

6.2 Who goes to Hell?

The following are the types of deeds in our life on Earth that typically land us in one of the planes of existence of Hell.

The extent, duration and intention behind the wrong-doings are important factors deciding the planes of existence of Hell attained after death rather than just the action itself.

7. Suicide and the after life

There are two types of death with regards to its timing.
Destined final death: This is the time of death that no one can escape.
Possible death: This is where a person can possibly die. Each person may undergo a possible death wherein one comes close to death but may be saved due to his or her merits.
For more information on the types of death please refer to our article – Time of Death
In cases where a person is going through insurmountable crisis in his life or has severe personality disorders, he may think of taking his own life in a depressed state. Ghosts (demons, devils, negative energies, etc.) also fuel the depression of a suicidal person and sometimes are instrumental in pushing a person over the edge into committing suicide. However, in most cases, suicide remains a wilful act that happens when a person is going through a possible death phase as per their destiny.
Life on the Earth plane of existence is precious and is given to us primarily for spiritual growth. When we kill others, we create/settle a karmic give-and-take account with them. However by committing suicide, we squander away the opportunity for spiritual growth and hence incur demerits or sin. The gravity of sin can vary depending on the circumstances under which a person commits suicide. Invariably the subtle-body of an average suicide case will go to Bhuvarlok. However for greater sins incurred during their life and the circumstances under which they commit suicide they can go to the lower regions of Hell.

Killing a Saint incurs the maximum amount of sin and on a scale of 0-100, it is 100.
Killing an ordinary person incurs 40 on the same scale
Killing oneself incurs 30% sin as opposed to killing another person of average spiritual level. Generally people who commit suicide are at a lower spiritual level. Their spiritual level gets eroded due to continuous depression.

Cause	Sin incurred	Merits	Comments
Where only oneself is involved
Physical: If one is experiencing severe pain or terminally ill due to illness and cannot take the pain any more voluntary euthanasia.	30% of killing another person of average spiritual level	–	Refer to the article on Euthanasia – Section 4.2
Psychological: Severe depression, psychiatric patient	30% of killing another person of average spiritual level	–
Spiritual: Taking one’s life when totally under the command of negative energies	0	–	The subtle body-continues to be under the influence of negative energies after death. Intense spiritual practice helps to come out of the clutches of demonic possession.
Where others are involved
Sacrificing oneself to save others selflessly	0	Varies	Depends on who one is sacrificing for. If sacrificing oneself for an evil person then one in fact incurs demerits and not merits.
Sacrificing oneself to save a Saint’s life	0	100	Saving a Saint’s life accrues the highest amount of merits.
Suicide bomber (killing oneself and others)	Varies	Varies	As per cause. For example if a soldier were to kill Hitler in a suicide mission to save millions of lives and rid the world of a menace, then merits would be accrued. Alternatively if a suicide bomber killed innocent adults and children then only demerits would be incurred.

8. Why is there a time lag between two reincarnations?

In the course of research by using hypnotic trance to trace the past lives of the person, it has been found that the time lag between two reincarnations on Earth could be on average 50 to 400 years. The reasons for this time lag are as follows:

The subtle body remains in the Heaven or the Nether plane of existence for variable periods of time to undergo its merits and demerits (sins).
Circumstances on Earth plane of existence need to be favourable to complete the give-and-take account from previous births with various people. This is in accordance with the law of Karma. The reincarnation of the subtle body is postponed until the time various other people who they have a give-and-take account with are also preparing to take reincarnation.
Sometimes in past life regression, a person does not report a reincarnation in the trance state. The reason for this is that a certain reincarnation has been very uneventful or brief and the person may not remember any details of it.

In the case of subtle bodies that have been relegated to the deeper planes of existence of Hell, the time lag between two reincarnations may be thousands of years. They stay in their respective plane of existence of Hell until such time they have completed their punishment. In most cases, this means languishing in plane of existence of Hell in their life after death till the dissolution of the Universe.

9. Life after death – in summary

The above facts about the various planes of existence give us a fair idea of the possible consequences in our life after death of how we live our lives. Only with spiritual practice or with extreme meritorious deeds can one go to the higher planes of existence and thereby avoid unhappiness and punishment and enjoy higher levels of happiness. There are also better chances of a reincarnation on Earth plane of existence in circumstances conducive to spiritual practice. This is so that one moves further up in the subtle planes of existence in the Universe. As we go further into the current Era of Strife (Kaliyug), there is lesser likelihood of people going to the higher planes of existence.
Once we go to the lower planes of existence such as the Nether plane of existence or other planes of existence of Hell, we stay there and experience severe unhappiness for centuries until we completely pay for our demerits (sins) by suffering the intense punishments meted there and get a chance to be reincarnated on Earth.
To do consistent spiritual practice on the Earth plane of existence according to the 6 basic laws of spiritual practice is like swimming against the tide in the current era. However, it is also a guaranteed way of advancing to higher planes of existence in our life after death.