SRI SRI SRI GANAPATHI

SACHCHIDANANDA
ASHRAM
DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER
Datta Drive, Orange Field Road,
Carapichaima, Trinidad, West
Indies.
A Unique Retreat
A Holistic Center

SRI SRI GANAPATHI SACHCHIDANANDA

ASHRAM
- DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER A UNIQUE RETREAT A HOLISTIC CENTER
Nestled amongst the Caroni plains of Trinidad is a haven of tranquil
beauty, a place where the mind melts into peace and silence. Here
the splendour of South Indian Dravidian architecture lends a
splendour of the East to the charm of the Caribbean. Come and
enjoy the ambience of the divine energy that pervades the air.
Birds chirp merrily in the early mornings and at sunset, as though
beckoning us to prayers.
From the laps of Mother Earth an eighty five (85) foot Hanuman
murti stands tall against the rising and setting sun of this tropical
island. His gigantic form summons courage and strength from the
depths of the human spirit. Simply sit for awhile and imbibe the
serenity, or take a walk to rejuvenate yourself.
The
world
renowned
spiritual
teacher
Sri
Ganapathi
Sachchidananda
has created this idyllic setting. It is his Divine Will to establish in a
single place, a home where people from all walks of life can
experience
peace, acquire knowledge, participate in spiritual practices, yoga
classes
and contribute to the various social and charitable activities, such
as the
free pre-school, school-feeding programme, free medical clinic and
maintenance of this pilgrimage Center. Thus, even the visiting
tourist is able to uplift himself and enjoy the blessings of this holy
place.
Those who would stay with us for a longer while can participate in
the yoga classes, meditate to music for meditation and healing,
join in daily prayers and services, contribute to the Annadanna
trust (food served at the end of services), join in hindi and other
classes for the youths.
Sri Swamiji has established a retreat in the heights of Cerro del
Aripo! There you will find amid the lush, green equatioral forest a
haven for the eco-lover. Have a bath in the clear, sparkling, cool
waters of the Aripo river while you enjoy the picturesque
landscape. Or journey to the heartland of the south where a smaller
Center specially dedicated to Lord Dattatreya (the Hindu Trinity in a
single form) is found in the friendly vicinity of Princes Town. The
sick and suffering will receive great benefits here.
We extend our hands and hearts and welcome you to Trinidad to
our most special sacred and healing Centers. Come share in our
happiness. When you leave, you will take with you some of the
peace and special energy found here. Face the challenges of your
daily life with renewed vigour and courage!

DRAVIDIAN ARCHITECTURE
HOW IT RELATES TO YOU
The year 2001 was a landmark year for Trinidad. Sixteen (16)
sculptors from South India journeyed to our shores to start their
artistic and engineering feat of creating the 85 form of Hanuman
and producing a masterpiece of Dravidian temple architecture that
now grace our beautiful island.
Ornate elephants (a sign of auspiciousness) and two beautifully
sculpted dancers welcome visitors at the northern entrance of the
temple. In its crown are carved celestial musician who play the
divine instruments. Music is a central part of all festivities held
here.
Our human body is considered a temple. Energy flows in this
temple through the 74,000 astral nerves. Above your head is the
energy center where the divinity resides and through which the
energy enters your body. The temple design is of a similar nature,
the shikara or crown of each shrine being the focal point of the flow
of energy. This energy is then directed into the different forms
within the inner shrine. Thus, direct benefits can be felt by sitting
and meditating at the various shrines. The architect designed the
temple of the Datta Yoga Center with four shrines. Each shrine
closely resembles a human body and is crowned by a vimana
(shikara). The vimana is decorated with intricate images which are
infused with life energy. The Sanctum Sanctorum (head) is the
inner recess of the shrine and the inner gate (the lower limb). The
spine (gopuram ) on the outer gate is the foot of the Lord. You need
not even enter the temple but contemplate on the gopuram to
derive blessings.
Interspersed in the temple halls are carved pillars that give support
to the structure. The internal ceiling is bedecked with lotus flowers
and other designs which appear as gems dropping from the
heavens.
If you are an artist or engineer then you must visit the Datta Yoga
Centre to appreciate the remarkable structures and architecture.

A PLACE WHERE YOU WILL RECEIVE

COURAGE, PROTECTION AND HELP IN FAMILY
PROBLEMS
In 2001 His Holiness Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji
gave instructions to construct this eighty five foot (85) form
of Hanuman in Trinidad. Hanuman is the protector of the
Earth. In this turbulent world His energy is there to help you
to overcome difficulties you encounter in daily life.
In 2002 the mammoth task of constructing this monument
began. Each stage of the construction was infused with
energy. Many people through their love and devotion to
Hanuman and the Swamiji poured out their hearts to bring
Hanuman to life.
Construction of the foundation started with offerings to
Mother Earth. The steel framework was tied and
continuously for six hours concrete poured into the earth.
The steel frame forming the spine, arms and legs were then
welded. Sacred mantras (seed sounds) were chanted as the
first block was laid to form the foot of Hanuman. Fire clay
blocks were used to form the body of the Hanuman. The
sculptors then dexterously moulded the proportionate and
magnificent Hanuman. In 2003 the grand consecration and
inauguration ceremonies of Hanuman and the other shrines
were
conducted
by
His
Holiness
Sri
Ganapathi
Sachchidananda. Thousands of people attended this
auspicious event.
What is the significance of Hanuman?
Hanuman is the protector of people.
He is the dispeller of fear and gives you courage.
He helps you to acquire both physical and mental strength.
He has the form of a monkey but his mind is not a monkey
(wandering) mind. He has one pointed concentration.
He represents prana (air). The breath when steady brings
steadiness to the mind. Hanuman is a master of kriya yoga
(Yoga of breath). Peace of mind is achieved through this type
of yoga.
Hanuman is a scholar in the vedas(hindu scriptures)
He performs his duty and adheres to the righteous codes of
conduct found in the vedas.
Hanuman is an epitome of righteous service to the Lord.
He was commanded by the Lord to remain on earth and give
assistance to devotees when they face problems in life.

HANUMAN

Hanuman is a great devotee of Sri

Raama. He is always engaged in
service of the Lotus feet of Sri Raama.
He is Ciranjeevi (immortal). Sri Raama
has given him the order to protect His
devotees and this planet earth.
Swamiji has gifted to us Kaarya Siddhi
Hanuman for the protection of
Trinidad and the world against
negative forces including natural
disasters
Kaarya
Siddhi
Hanuman
is
worshipped by devotees with many
problems. You can make an offering
of a coconut available at the
Hanuman temple (narikela prayer) to
help solve family problems and for the
welfare of the society and world.
Hanuman gives immediate relief of
critical problems with this simple
offering.
Abhaya Mudra: His raised hand
bestows fearlessness on His devotees.

RAKSHA
HANUMAN

Swamiji instructed the sculptors from

India to create Raksha Hanuman
before the construction of the 85
Kaarya Siddhi Hanumaan.
Raksha
Hanuman
infused
Trinidadians with strength of purpose
and great faith throughout the project.
His presence brought Hanuman
Bhaktas (devotees) from all corners of
Trinidad to assist in the tremendous
work that was ahead.
The presence of Kaarya Siddhi
Hanuman is a testimony of the unity
and love of Trinidadians for Hanuman
that found its fulfillment through the
energy of this Raksha Hanuman.

A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
THE PATH TO BLISS
Swamiji says In 1969 three scientist took a rocket to the moon. On the same day
they performed a prayer on the moon. They have intellect, so why do they believe in
God? Why? Intellect is only useful for your job. It is not bliss.
There are many spiritual disciplines that help us reunite with our own divine,
blissful nature. In this age it is believed that love and devotion (bhakti yoga) is the
easiest spiritual path leading to that goal. The expression of this love for the
Supreme is beautifully expressed through music which appeals to the heart of men.
At the center you will be treated to the soothing sounds of the Himalayas, listen to
music for meditation and healing, join in bhajans (praises to the Supreme) and
ancient mantras have been put to music to help balance your body, heart and mind.
You must listen and have the inner experience of the music. It is the beginning of the
spiritual journey. The music will stay with you and give you solace as you journey
through life.
Other spiritual disciplines are kriya yoga (breathing exercises) and hatha yoga
(physical exercises) which are taught at the center. The kriya exercises consists of
breathing exercises, asanas (special sitting postures), meditation, concentration,
adherence to simple moral and spiritual codes of conduct and devotion to the
Spiritual teacher. Kriya yoga awakens the centres of consciousness within your body.
The exercises generate energy which burns away acquired habits (by removing the
impressions etched on the mind) and allows your true blissful nature to shine. Hatha
yoga exercises activate weakened glands and thus stimulate good health. The
breath is also harmonized with the physical exercise during hatha yoga and this
gives added benefits to the practicant. Classes are conducted free of charge every
first and third Saturday of the month. All are welcome to join.
You can also participate in daily pujas (prayers) on mornings and afternoons these
are considered another form of spiritual discipline. Resident pundits versed in the
chanting of vedic mantras and skilled in the ritualist aspect of performing pujas
devotedly perform these services. They can be consulted on personal problems as
well as for explanation on the reasons and benefits of doing the prayers.
Those who enjoy the spiritual discipline of service to humanity (karma yoga) can
inquire about the free preschool, free medical clinic, school-feeding programme,
ashrama maintenance, and other social activities undertaken at the center.
WHY ALL THESE DISCIPLINES?
Chanting the name of God, music, puja and yoga are helpful for our enlightenment.
They help develop control. Otherwise there are so many wantssweets
drinks.friendsmarriageunknown things. Thats why you can keep your mind
always busy. If you give the mind 5 minutes rest it will give many, many problems.
Dont be unhappy. Dont be discouraged. Some people think, I am alone, who will
look after me? I want marriage. I want a good friendhealthwealth. Why are you
crying like that? Why are you thinking like that? He (God) gave this world. He created
you. Believe His Grace is always with you in your path. He is kind. You must believe!
.Think about yourself 50%, 50% you can leave to God. explains Swamiji.

MUSIC
Music is the science of vibrations. Vibrations, when they recur less than 8,000
times and more than 16 times in a second, produce sounds which by their
exquisite tone, if blended harmoniously, are called music.
A parrot made out of sugar tastes the same whether you eat its beak, its tail or
its leg, because its basic ingredient is sugar, which is sweet. Likewise, the whole
universe has the sound OM as its basis. It is for this reason that those who wish to
unravel the secret of creation do Omkara worship. From this eternal Omkara,
emanated the seven basic tones of music. Therefore one who does sadhana
(practice) in music, automatically becomes an Upasaka (worshipper) of Omkara.
Listening to music also gives similar effect. It is with this purpose in mind that in
the Ashrama music programmes are conducted.
Swamiji renders music and believes that music is no religion, no caste, no creed,
no discrimination. His style of music is based on Ragas, ancient Indian form of
music which He interprets in a new way. In the locale of His Music for Meditation
and Healing these is no place for harsh sounds, horror tunes, soul screeching
artificial sounds and cacophony. Sounds which build up violent passions are not
suggested. Through His music, He aims to achieve relaxation by soothing the
72,000 astral nerves and 14 important Nadis of the body. Thus, peace and
stillness of mind are achieved.
Music influences the cells, tissues and nerves of the body. Tissue breakdown,
cancerous growths, skin ailments, mental problems are healed to a great extent
by music. Swamiji stresses greatlly on concentration (Ekagrata) on the part of the
Healer Musician and the LISTENER. Listening is a special technique. Sense control
is required for Listening. For the true listener music is therapy.

KRIYA & HATHA YOGA

Other spiritual disciplines are kriya yoga (breathing exercises) and hatha yoga
(physical exercises) which are taught at the center. The kriya exercises consists
of breathing exercises, asanas (special sitting postures), meditation,
concentration, adherence to simple moral and spiritual codes of conduct and
devotion to the Spiritual teacher. Kriya yoga awakens the centres of
consciousness within your body. The exercises generate energy which burns away
acquired habits (by removing the impressions etched on the mind) and allows
your true blissful nature to shine. Hatha yoga exercises activate weakened glands
and thus stimulate good health. The breath is also harmonized with the physical
exercise during hatha yoga and this gives added benefits to the practicant.
Classes are conducted free of charge every first and third Saturday of the month.
All are welcome to join.

SOCIAL & CHARITABLE SERVICES

BAALA DATTA
PRESCHOOL

Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or
Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive,
Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temples compound on its
eastern side.
Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there
must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families
can be given free education at an early age.
At inception, the school was operated by one of the temples pundit, Mr.
Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school
and there were approximately twelve children.
As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two
children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of
the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga
Center.

DONATION OF FOOD
ANNA DHANA TRUST

ANNA POORNA MANDIRAM

Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or
Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive,
Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temples compound on its
eastern side.
Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there
must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families
can be given free education at an early age.
At inception, the school was operated by one of the temples pundit, Mr.
Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school
and there were approximately twelve children.
As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two
children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of
the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga
Center.

FREE MEDICAL CLINIC

Baala Datta pre-school was established in 1992. It was named after the Guru or
Swamiji of the Dattatreya Yoga Center. The school is located at Datta Drive,
Orangefield Road, Carapichaima and is situated in the temples compound on its
eastern side.
Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda has instructed that as service to the community there
must be a school which is free to all children and where children of poor families
can be given free education at an early age.
At inception, the school was operated by one of the temples pundit, Mr.
Ramkissoon Ramnarine. His wife, Mrs. Ramnarine was the first teacher at the school
and there were approximately twelve children.
As time passed the school expanded and it now has approximately thirty two
children and three teachers. The teachers obtain their training at the University of
the West Indies. The school is under the Board of Trustees of the Dattatreya Yoga
Center.

PRAYERS
(PUJAS & HOMA)

ship is of two types worship through a form or formless wors

Ingredients curative effect teertam, mantras
Concentration,

FIRE WORSHIP
HOMA & POORNA HUTI

Performing rituals with fire as the focal point is termed Smaarta Agni. It is like a laboratory
where many ingredients are offered into the fire to purify and energize the atmosphere. In
addition the mantras (seed sounds) chanted during the offerings gives added mental and
spiritual balance to the people present. There are two types of fire worship:
- Chatushpaatra (four vessels)
- Shatpaatra (six vessels)
Chatuspaatra is performed in homes for peace and is referred to as Shanti Homa. Performance of
homas for a particular diety requires Shatpaatra. At the commencement of this homa one
hundreds of mantras must be chanted and invocation done for each deity. Only after this is done,
the worship of the particular deity or main puja can proceed.
This type of worship allows the particular deity to be worshipped directly and one obtains quick
results for performing this type of ritual.
In ancient times and in parts of India even today the fire used for this worship was created
directly from God and the elements, through chanting of mantras and friction produced from
rocks or the use of a magnifying glass. The fire for the yagna during the consecration of Kaarya
Siddhi Hanumaan was created in this manner.
POORNAHUTI
The poorna huti is offered for the enjoyments of the fruits of the homa. It consists of a coconut
and other ingredients tied together in a cloth. Only coconut must be offered, no other fruit. The
fibre of the coconut when removed represents the removal of sins, breaking of the coconut
indicates the removal of ignorance and the water and jelly that is obtained is the knowledge.

DATTATREYA YOGA CENTER

To achieve that yogam in the presence of divine

Dattatreya.

THE SHIKARA
The human body is considered a temple and energy flows in this
temple through the 16,000 nerves. Above the head is the energy
center where the divinity resides and through which the divine
energy enters the body. The temple design is of a similar nature
with the shikara or crown of each shrine being the focal point of the
flow of energy which is directed into the different forms. Thus,
direct benefits can be felt by sitting and meditating at the various