Varanasi 5 February 1921

Maharaj, how can the Kundalini be awakened?

Through the practice of Japa, meditation and other Sadhanas. According to some yogis, there are special forms of meditation and practices which awaken it, but I believe it can be best done through Japa and meditation. The practice of Japa is specially suited to Kaliyuga. There is no other spiritual practice easier than this. But meditation must accompany the repetition of the mantra.

Does meditation mean thinking of the form of the deity?

It implies thinking of the Divine, both with form and without form.

Maharaj, is it the guru who decides whether one is fit for meditation on God with form or without form?

Yes. But the pure mind itself plays the part of the guru. At times the mind is inclined to think of the form. At other times the formless aspect of God appeals to it. The outer guru cannot be had always. As the aspirant goes on with his spiritual practice, his power of comprehension also increases. Then his mind can act as a guide.

The Yogavasishtha Ramayana says that mental energy is wasted through various distractions. A part of it is drawn to the body, another part to the senses, still another part to the sense-objects. The mind is tied to many things. Snap all the bonds. Collect the scattered forces of the mind and make them flow in a particular direction. This is what Sadhana means.

Concentrate the whole mind and direct it to spiritual practices until the goal is reached. Strive. Be up and doing. You are young now. This is the time to practise spiritual exercises. You will not be able to do anything when you grow old. In the beginning it is necessary to do some spiritual exercises as a part of the daily routine. Whether the mind likes it or not, these must be followed regularly.

Begin your spiritual life in right earnest. If you can concentrate all the distracted powers of the mind, you will find that this will generate a tremendous energy. Do it through Japa or meditation or discrimination. Know that all these means are equally effective. Take up any one and be immersed in it. Do not question any more. First do something, then come and ask questions if you have any.

Maharaj, is it true that the Kundalini awakens by the grace of the guru?

Through the grace of the guru not only can the Kundalini be roused, but everything else can be had, even the knowledge of Brahman. But this grace cannot be attained easily. One has to strive one’s utmost to get it.

Ask the mind in your calm moments if you have done any spiritual practice. It will say you have done absolutely nothing. Practise some spiritual discipline. Begin now. Devote yourself to this and this alone. Do not pay heed to anything else. Plunge into the very depth of your soul.