Q : What is the meaning of “Pushti” ? What is the significance of “Pushti Marg” ?
Ans : “Push” is Sanskrit means nousishment. It also means God’s grace. The way to gain this grace is known as “Pushti Marg”. God removes darkness and throws light of knowledge and every one of us are benefited by it.
Q : What is the significance of greeting each other by saying “Jai Shree Krishna ?
Ans : Since it is a fact that God resides in heart of every person. So when one devotee greets another, he actually bows to the God residing in the person being greeted. Further he is also reminded of his true identity.
Q : What is the significance of putting Tulsi Kanthi (Mala) around the neck by Vaishnavas ?
Ans : Small beads of Tulsi Plant called Tulsi is considered pious and it is beloved by God. Therefore every Vaishna should wear Tulsi-Kanthi.
Q : Why one Tulsi Kanthi is not considered to be sufficient and two are required to be worn ?
Ans : Vaishnav who has accepted Brahma-Sambandh should normally wear two kanthis. One is worn with esteem respect for Nav-mantra and the other for Nivedan Mantra.
Q : Why Tulsi is worshiped and why it is always offered to God ?
Ans : As per one of the mythological stories Tulsi was wife of a Yaksha called Shankhchud. Due to some misunderstanding she believed that Lord Krishna had deceived her and therefore she cursed the God that he would turn into stone. But God took into account her true and tstrong devotion and therefore blessed her that she would come on this earth in form of a plant with medicinal value and shall always be at his feet and shall be worshipped. As per another story she is symbol of Lakshmi the wife of Lord Vishnu. As the God had promised to marry her, Tulsi Vivah is celebrated every year.
Q : What is the meaning of “BRAHMA SAMBANDH”?
Ans : As explained by Shri Mahaprabhuji the human nature is susceptible to bad influences. As soon as a man is born, he automatically catches five kinds of ills which make him forget his true identity. He even forgets that he is part of god and his main object is to meet the God. He is not unhappy about the fact that he has forgotten God from last thousands of years. He is not even anxious to meet the God because he is trapped in worldly things and thinks that he is one separate from the God. He does not appreciate that every living thing is part and parcel of God. Whatever happens in this world is as per his wish since man is not capable of doing `something, which is not approved by the God. But a man thinks otherwise, he thinks that he himself is God and he can do everything on this earth. He believes that he is the owner of his properties and that it is he, who does everything. Therefore, he becomes sad when something believed to be owned by him is lost. He runs around to find happiness in worldly things and therefore after death he takes several birth and rebirths. With a view to show correct path to the people, Mahaprabhuji has given a Mantra having eighty four letters, which is Prose form and five letters Mantra which is known as Brahma Sambandh.
Mantra of Brahma Sambandh can be classified in three parts, viz. In the first part Man realises his true identity when he meets God face to face; in the second part he gives up everything go God which he falsely believed of his own. This includes his properties, his body and soul and in third part he promises to take shelter forever at the feet of God. Thus, he becomes a liberated soul.
Q : Why one has to observe fast ?
Ans : The idea is two fold. One is to remain (at least once in a fortnight) in seva and with the God by utilising time saved by not cooking and the second is to give rest to the digestive system.
Q : Why bells are rung at the time Aarti of Thakorji ?
Ans : When a bell is rung it makes sound of “OM” whis is considered to be divine revelation of presence of God and it makes the surrounding pious which kills evil thought. Further it helps the devotees to concentrate their mind on God and it suppresses the other external disturbing sounds.
Q : Why do we have “Pradakshina” (move around any object in full circle) around the sanctum sanctourum of the temple ? Why the Pradakshina is always done
Ans : As one cannot draw a circle without the central point similarly our life is shapeless without the God. To symbolise that we keep God at the centre and move around sanctum sanctorum. As our right side is always considered as pious we keep God to our right and have “Pradakshina” from left to right.Q : What is “Satsang” ?
Ans : Any kind of inter action between two Vaishnavs about Bhagvad, or doing Kirtan or anything religious is called Satsang.
Q : Who brought to the notice of the people Beithakjis?
Ans : Shri Gokulnathji, the grandson of Mahaprabhuji has written a book which deals with eighty- four beithakjis and the said book is called “Beithakji Charitra”. This book is approximately four hundred years old.
Q : Who can do seva in bethakji?
Ans : Every Vaishnav who has taken Brahm Sambandh can after having bath do Seva of Shri Mahaprabhuji in bethakji.
Q : What is the significance of Zariji?
Ans : Pushti Marg is not only for rich people but for poor people too. For Mahaprabhji poorand rich are alike. It does not cost anything to perform Seva called ‘Zariji’. Though at some of the holy places, devotee is charged Rs. 11/-to 25/-for performing Zariji but this practice is incorrect for the reason, it is at the devotee’s discration to pay or not to pay.Pushti Marg gives prime importance to humility and therefore word “Seva” is avoided and replaced by expression ‘Zariji’.
Q : How to perform Zariji in Beithak?
Ans : A: The devotees are required to carry out instructions of Mukhiyaji (temple priest). Devotees, if they are many then required to stand in queue with right hand of his placed on the shoulder of the standing in front and facing the beithakji. While waiting in queue for the turn devotee should chant Yamunashtak.
If there are many devotees, then very little quantity of water should be offered by each devotee while performing Zariji so as to enable all the devotees to perform the turn by turn.
Q : Is there any Beithakji other than that of Mahaprabhuji?
Ans : Yes. There are fifty eight more Beithakjis of Shri Gusainji as well as that of lalji, Shrihariraiji,
Shrinathji and Damodardas Harsaniji. Thus, we have eighty four plus fifty eight i.e. One hundread forty-two beithakjis.
Q : Why are there 84 beithakjis of Shri Mahaprabhuji?
Ans : There were 84 enlightened sevaks of Mahaprabhji, he made their hearts his abode.Every Beithakji is a symbolic representation of heart of each of the 84 enlightened sevaks. Further there are 84 types of Bhakti. Incarnationof Mahaprabhuji’s and his work for bringing devotees under one shelter of God.
Q : What is the diffrerence between beithakji and Temple?
Ans : 1) Vaishnavas call their temple as Haveli
2) Different types of Beithakji
In temple the Vaishnavs are prohibited from performing seva by themselves only Mukhiyajis can do so.
While in Beithakji Vaishnava can perform seva with their own hands.
Q : What is meant by Betihakji? In Pushti Marg word ‘Beithakji’ does not mean a seat then what does it mean?
Ans : Beithakji means a place to sit. A place where kings, his ministers and important people used to hold meetings was also called Beithak.
However so far as Pusti Marg is concerned Baithak means the place at which Mahaprabhuji sat down and read Shrimad Bhagwat, Ramayana,Geeta etc. During his circular trip throughout india. At the age of eleven he had made three circular trips by foot throughout India.
Q. 1: What is the full name of our Sampraday(Sect)?
Ans: The full name of our Sampraday (Sect) is "Shuddhadvait Pushti Bhakti Marg".
Q. 2: Who is the founder of Pushti Marg?
Ans: The founder of Pushti Marg is Shri Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji.
Q. 3: When and where was Shri Mahaprabhuji born?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji was born on 11th day of Chaitra Vad Virkam Savant 1535 in Champaranya, near Raipur in state of Chattisgarh.
Q. 4: What was Shri Mahaprabhuji's parents name?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji's father's name was Shri Laxman Bhattji and mother's name was Illammagarooji.
Q. 5: What was Shri Mahaprabhuji's wife's (Bahuji's) name?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji's wife name was Mahalaxmiji.
Q. 6: What were the names of Shri Mahaprabhuji's sons?
Ans: The name of Shri Mahaprabhuji's sons were: 1: Shri Gopinathji 2: Shri Vitthalnathji (Shri Gusaiji).
Q. 7: How many main disciples did Shri Mahaprabhuji's had?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji's had 84 main disciple.
Q. 8: Who was the dearest disciple of Shri Mahaprabhuji?
Ans: Shir Damodardas Harsaniji was the dearest disciple of Shri Mahaprabhuji.
Q. 9: How many times did Shri Mahaprabhuji do Parikrama of India (travel all of India)?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji did parikrama of India 3 times.
Q. 10: How many years did Shri Mahaprabhuji remain present on earth?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji remained present on earth for 52 years, 2 months and 7 days.
Q. 11: Where did Shri Mahaprabhuji preached the very first time on Shrimad Bhagwat?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji first preached on Shrimad Bhagwat in Champaranya, his brithplace.
Q. 12: On which day did Shri Mahaprabhuji create framed "Shri Madhurastkam"?
Ans: On Shravan Sud 11, Shri Mahaprabhuji created Shri Madhurastkam.
Q. 13: Which principle did Shri Mahaprabhuji establish?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji established the principle of "Sudhavait Brahmvad" differing from Mayavad.
Q. 14: Which limb of Shri Mahaprabhuji resembles / is similar to Thakorji (God Shri Krishna)?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji is the "Mukharvind" (Face) swaroop of Thakorji.
Q. 15: In Gokul, who showed Thakurani Ghat and Govind Ghat to Shri Mahaprabhuji?
Ans: Shri Yamunaji showed Thakurani Ghat and Govind Ghat to Shri Mahaprabhuji.
Q. 16: What is "Sansar" according to Shri Mahaprabhuji?
Ans: "Ahanta - Mumta" (I-ness, My-ness) (Human Ego) is "Sansar" as per Shri Mahaprabhuji.
Q. 17: Accroding to Shri Mahaprabhuji, what is the swaroop of "Sansar"?
Ans: The swaroop of "Sansar" is "Mithya" (Meaningless).
Q. 18: Which fasts are to be obeyed for Vaishnavs?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji has ordered Vaishnav's to fast on all the "Agyaras" i.e. 24 "Agyaras" of the year; 4 Jayantis (Birth dates); 2 "Agyaras" in "Adhik Mas" are to be obeyed.
Q. 19: What is the name of the book written by Shri Mahaprabhuji to explain Shrimad Bhagwat?
Ans: "Shri Subodhiniji" was written by Shri Mahaprabhuji to explain Shrimad Bhagwat.
Q. 20: How many small Granths have been published by Shri Mahaprabhuji? Write their names.
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji published 16 small Granths known as Sodash Granth and their names are: 1: Yamunashtak 2: Balbodh 3: Siddant Muktawali 4: Pushti Pravah Mavyada 5: Siddant Rahasya 6: Navrathnah 7: Antah Karan Prabodh 8: Vivek Dhariyashray 9: Krushnashya 10: Chatur Sloki 11: Bhakti Vardhini 12: Jalbhed 13: Panch Padhyani 14: Sanyas Nirnay 15: Nirodh Laxan 16: Sevafulum
Q. 21: Hhow many times has Chatur Shri Mahaprabhuji been honoured with Kanakabhishek? When and where?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji has been honoured with Kanakabhishek twice; first in Orchha, and second in Vidhyanagar.
Q. 22: When and where did Shri Gusaiji take birth on the earth?
Ans: Shri Gusaiji was born on 9th day of Magsar Vad Samvat 1572 in Charnatt.
Q. 23: What is the other name of Shri Gusaiji?
Ans: Shri Vithalnathji.
Q. 24: How many "Baithakji" (Places where Shrimad Bhagwat was preached) of Shri Gusaiji are in existence on the earth? How many of them are in Gujarat?"
Ans: There are 28 "Baithakji" of Shri Gusaiji on the earth, and 7 in Gujarat.
Q. 25: How many children did Shri Gusaiji have and what are their names?
Ans: Shri Gusaiji had 7 sons: 1: Shri Giridharji 2: Shri Govindji 3: Shri Balkirshnaji 4: Shri Gokulnathji 5: Shri Raghunathji 6: Shri Yadunathji 7: Shri Ghanshyamlalji
Q. 26: Shri Gusaiji gave a swaroop of Thakorji to each of his sons. Which son received what swaroop.
Ans: Shri Gusaiji gifted the following swaroop to his sons: 1: Shri Giridharji - Shri Mathureshji 2: Shri Govindji - Shri Vitthalnathji 3: Shri Balkrishnaji - Shri Dwarkadhishji 4: Shri Gokulnathji - Shri Gokulnathji 5: Shri Raghunathji - Shri Gokulchandramaji 6: Shri Yadunathji - Shri Balkrishnaji 7: Shri Ghanshyamlalji - Shri Madan Mohanji
Q. 27: What is the first poem of Shri Gusaiji?
Ans: "Sarvottam Stotra" is the first poem composed by Shri Gusaiji.
Q. 28: How many years on the earth did Shri Gusaiji remain present?
Ans: Shri Gusaiji remained present for 70 years on the earth.
Q. 29: Why were Vigyapati created by Shri Gusaiji? Where?
Ans: Kirshnadas Adhikari informed Shri Gusaiji at Dandvatishila that Thakorji desired him to stay in Chandra Sarovar. So Shri Gusaiji stayed in Chandra Sarovar for six months. Shri Gusaiji himself made a fulmala (neclace made out of flowers) and created one slok (verse).
Q. 30: For Thakorji, which seva bhog(Manorath) did Shri Gusaiji celeberate for the first time upon accumulating wealth?
Ans: "Chapan Bhog" was celeberated.
Q. 31: Who built a residential house in Mathura for Shri Gusaiji? What is the famous name?
Ans: The queen of Gadha, Shrimati Durgadevi built the residential house in Mathura for Shri Gusaiji and that house is known as "Shat - Ghara".
Q. 32: How did Shri Gusaiji enter / make Asurviamohila (Pass Away)? Who was present with him?
Ans: In Goverdhan, besides the mukharvind (face) of Shri Girirajji, Shri Gusaiji entered in Nikunji with Govindswami and they disappeared in the swaroop of Shrinathji.
Q. 33: Who are the four disciples that are not only friends but have been named as Astashakhas of Shri Gusaiji?
Ans: 1) Shri Govindswami 2) Chhit Swami 3)Chaturbhujdas 4)Nanddasji
Q. 34: Shri Gusaiji's 108 names are in which stotra? Who created this stotra?
Ans: The stotra that consists the 108 name of Shri Gusaiji is known as "Nam Ratanakhyan Stotra". Shri Raghunathji created this stotra.
Q. 35: What year did Shri Gusaiji "Lila Pravesh"?
Ans: In Vikram Savant 1642.
Q. 36: In a single night, which vaishnav dug out the foundation of Shri Gusaiji temple in Gokul?
Ans: Yadvendradas Kumbhar dug out the foundation of Shri Gusaiji temple in Gokul.
Q. 37: Which granth(poem) of Shri Gusaiji is considered as Gayatri in PushtiMarg?
Ans: "Sarvottam Stotra" which is composed by Shri Gusaiji is known as Gayatri of Pushti Marg.
Q. 38: Which granth was created by Shri Gusaiji to explain Shri Subodhiniji?
Ans: To explain Shri Subodhiniji, Shri Gusaiji composed the Tipanaji granth.
Q. 39: Which mandal has been established by Shri Gusaiji for Kirtans of Shrinathji?
Ans: "Ashtachhap Kirtan Mandal" was established by Shri Gusaiji for kirtans of Shrinathji.
Q. 40: On which day did Shri Yamunaji appear on the earth?
Ans: Shri Yamunaji appeared on ther 6th day of Chaitra Sud.
Q. 41: Where did Shrinathji emerge from?
Ans: Shrinathji emerged from Shri Giriraj mountain in Jatipura, Vraj dist., Mathura, India.
Q. 42: What is another name of Shrinathji?
Ans: Another famous name of Shrinathji is "Govardhandhar" (Govardhan Nathji).
Q. 43: Who is the apex God amongst all?
Ans: Lord Shri Krishna.
Q. 44: On which day did Shri Vallabh receive the Brahmasabandh Mantra (Ghadhya Mantra)?
Ans: Shri Vallabh received the Brahmasabandha Mantra (a. k. a Ghadhya Mantra) on the 11th day of Shravan Sud (Agiyarus).
Q. 45: What appeared on Lord Shri Giriraj Mountain on the day Shri Vallabh was born?
Ans: The "Mukharvind" (Face) of Shrinathji emerged on Shri Girirajji.
Q. 46: Which two honors were received by Shri Vallabh at a very young age?
Ans: Shri Vallabh received "Bal Saraswati" & "Vakpati" honors at a very young age.
Q. 47: Who was the first disciple to receive Brahmasabhandh Dixa from Shri Vallabhacharya?
Ans: Damodardas Harsaniji was the first disciple of Shri Vallabhacharyaji to receive Brahmsabhandha Dixa.
Q. 48: From whom did Shri Mahaprabhuji receive the Dixa of Sanyas?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji received the Dixa of sanyas from Shri Narayanendra Tirth.
Q. 49: What is the cardinal mantra of Pushtimarg?
Ans: The Ashtakshar Mantra (Shri Krishna Sharnam Mamah) is the cardinal mantra.
Q. 50: What is the fruit in Pushtimarg?
Ans: The fruit of Pushtimarg is the seva of Shri Thakorji.
Q. 51: How will Bhagvat Bhav (Love towards God) increase for a Pushti soul?
Ans: Love towards Prabhu (God) will increase for a Pushti soul by procuring the knowledge and Mahatmaya (Importance) of the swaroop and seva of Shrinathji.
Q. 52: How many times & when does Shri Thakorji take a bath with "Panchamrut" (mixture of milk, curd, sugar, honey, ghee)?
Ans: Inside the temple, Shri Thakorji (God) takes a bath with Panchamrut 6 times a year. 1) Early in the morning of Janmashtami (Thakorji's Birthday) to Thakorji 2) Midnight on Janmashtami to Shaligramji 3)On the birth time of "Vaman Dwadasi" to Shaligramji 4)On prabodhini to Shaligramji 5)On Ramnavmi (Lord Ram's Birthday) to Shaligramji 6)On Narsinh Chaudas (Lord Narsinh's Birthday) to Shaligramji
Q. 53: What is the meaning of Adhivasun?
Ans: Things used for Thakorji's seva on purified with vedic rituals is Adhivasun.
Q. 54: When does adhivasun take place in a Pushtimarg temple?
Ans: Adhivasun are performed 7 times a year.
1) First Hindola - Adhivasun of Hindola
2) On Pavitra Ekadashi - Adhivasun of Pavitra & Rakhi
3) On Vasant Panchmi - Adhivasun of Vasant Kalash
4) On Dol (Holi) - Adhivasun of Dol
5) On Akhatrij - Adhivasun of Chandan (Sandal Powder)
6) On Snanyatra - Adhivasun of Jal (Water) on previous day
7) On Rathyatra - Adhivasun of Rath of GOD.
Q. 55: How is "Charnamrut" prepared?
Ans: "Charnamrut" is prepared by mixing the soil of Vraj, soil of Shri Yamunaji and the bath water of Shrinathji.
Q. 56: How should Thakorji be woken up at home?
Ans: Standing near Shri Thakorji's bed, one should clap 3 times with the intention fo ringing a bell. Next, request Thakorji by saying "Jay Jay Jay Shri Thakorji Ki Jay Ho".
Q. 57: How do we offer and request Thakorji for Bhog?
Ans: During the correct time of bhog, Thakorji should kindly be requested by saying "Oh! God kindly have your bhog with the kani (through the request) of Shri Mahaprabhuji, Shri Gusaiji, Shri Gurudev, Shri Damodardas Harsaniji, 84 and 252 vaishnav's"
Q. 58: From "Mangala" to "Shayan" how many times is "Jariji" filled (Water of Jariji changed) everyday?
Ans: Jariji is to be filled 8 times a day, in front of Shri Thakorji.
Q. 59: What is the color of Jariji's cloth? What is it called?
Ans: The color of "Jariji's" cloth is red and it is called "Nevro".
Q. 60: Without which mala Thakorji's shringar is incomplete?
Ans: Without "Gunja Mala" Thakorji's shringar is incomplete.
Q. 61: Shri Mahaprabhuji had 84 main disciples. Shri Gusaiji had 252 main disciples, then how many disciples did Shri Giridhar Raiji had?
Ans: Shri Giridhar Raiji had 40 main diciples.
Q. 62: Why is Tulsidal (2 Tulsi leaves connected to the same stem) taken in the hand while serving Rajbhog?
Ans: After the Rajbhog is decorated, Tulsidal Gaddya Mantra is recited, serve on Thakorji's feet.
Q. 63: Which holy granth must be recited in front of Shri Thakorji during Rajbhog?
Ans: Shri Krushnashray must be recited in front of Shri Thakorji during Rajbhog.
Q. 64: What is Thakorji's "Patoutsav"?
Ans: According to the Vedas ritual, Shri Thakorji is placed on "Sinhaushan" for the first time. This day is celeberated as "Patoutsav" day. Also, Thakoji was born on "Janmashtami" which is known as "Prakatutsav". "Patoutsav" is when Thakorji grew older and went in "Nikunj" for the first time.
Q. 65: What is Shri Thakorji's Manorath?
Ans: Vaishnavs serving and pleasing Thakorji with everything they have is known as "Manorath". Pleasing Thakorji is a Vaishnav's duty and a reward in itself. What is emerged from the heart is Manorath.Q. 66: When is the "Dwidhiya Patoutsav"? Why is it known as the "Dwidhiya Patoutsav"?
Ans: During the 40 day of Fagun, Thakorji considers the Gope & Gopis as his equal (Friends). However, after Dol Utsav (40 days of Fagun), Gope & Gopi are again considered as Thakorji's "DAS" and Thakorji again sits on his throne (Patt). Therefore, this occasion is known as the "Second Patoutsav".
Q. 67: Why is it important to take charnamrut right after taking a shower?
Ans: Taking a shower cleans the outside part of the body, while taking charnamrut purifies the body from within. Dosh (Evils) will runaway and therefore charnamrut ought to be taken after taking a shower.Q. 68: What is Mishri Bhog Thakorji?
Ans: Pushtimarg is about "Yatha Deh, Tatha Deve" seva. Unfortunately, due to time, situations and lack of facilities, many people are not able to serve Thakorji to their fullest. Therefore, they have "agnya" from Shri Vallabh Balak to do "Mishri Seva", which is also known as "Bhav Seva". Mishri seva is when a vaishnav wakes up Thakorji, serves mishri and Jariji, then puts Thakorji to sleep.
Q. 69: Can milk products & Nagari be served to Mishri Bhog Thakorji?
Ans: Yes, milk products and Nagari can be served to Mishri Bhog Thakorji.
Q. 70: Why should samagri (Bhog) be kept ready before awaking Thakorji for Mangal Bhog?
Ans: A mother prepares her child's meal before waking her child, or else the child will cry and become displeased. In the same manner, our Thakorji should be served with love and affection and should not have have to wait for his Bhog. In Pushtimarg, Thakorji served as a child.
Q. 71: When does Shringar Bhog start? Which samagri is to be served?
Ans: Shri Thakorji takes a bath after mangal Bhog. During this time, Shringar Bhog is kept ready on the Choki. After Shringar, the Shringar Bhog is placed in front of Thakorji. Shringar Bhog consists of thor, nagari, milk items, mevo (Dryfruits / Fruits), etc. Samagri should be made according to one's capacity.
Q. 72: Can Palna (cradle) be celebrated in a vaishnav's house? Can bhog be served to Thakorji during Palna?
Ans: Palna can be celebrated in a vaishnav's house so long as there are adequate facilities. Bhog / Samagri can be served with the Bhav (Imagination) of Palna along with Toys, Ghoogra, Chakadi, etc. to Thakorji. Palna Bhog consists of milk items, nagari, dryfruits, fruits, etc. Items should be made according one's capacity.
Q. 73: Which samagri can be served during Rajbhog?
Ans: In Rajbhog, milk products, nagari, sakhdi, unsakhdi, dryfruits, sandhana (pickle), etc can be served according to one's capacity. If there is no permission from Vallabh to serve sakhadi samagri, one can serve unsakhdi, milk products, nagari, etc. to Thakorji.
Q. 74: Which samagri can be served during Shyabhog?
Ans: In Shyabhog, keer, dal bhaath, kadhi, puri, etc. should be served. How ever there should not be any burden on Thakorji. In Pushti marg we treat \ serve Thakorji like a child. The samagri should be served with the purest bhav (affection). Since Thakorji loves the best item; vaishnavs should be ready to serve the finest items every day. If items are not served with a pure bhav, then Thakorji may not accept the samagri\bhog.
Q. 75: Can sakhadi bhog be served to Thakorji on Big Utsavs by a vaishnav who is not granted permission by his\her Acharya to serve sakdi bhog daily?
Ans: The vaishnav who do not have the permission to serve sakhdi bhog daily, maay serve sakhdi bhog on Big Uttsav only if permission is specially granted by an Acharya.
Q. 76: Can Aarti be performed in a vaishnav’s house to Thakorji?
Ans: Yes, Aarti can be performed in a vaishnav’s house. Only if the vaishnav is serving Sakhadi bhog to Thakorji. Only Mangla, Rajbhog and Shayan can be performed. Aarti should be performed daily and constantly; how ever it cannot be discontinued once started.
Q. 77: What does the Abhayang Snan consists?
Ans: Abhayang both consists of Amala and Chandan. Amla should first be boiled and then strained. According to the season, the correct attar (Scent) should be mixed with the amla water. This mixer is served with fuel. Then a little amount of barras should be mixed with kesari chandan (Orange chandan) and thakorji takes a bath in this mixture. Only on Ramnavami and Janmashtmi Thakorji takes a bath with gulabjal (Rose water). That mixure should be pure. If the festival falls on a Sunday or a Tuesday, then white chandan replaces amla, and fuel cannot be served. Also after taking Abhayang Bath with white chandan, kesari chandan is served and then Thakorji takes a bath with warm water.
Q. 78: What are the bhavs of different flower malagis (flower neckless)? With what bhav are they (Dharavai) offered?
Ans: The different malajis that Thakorji wears represents the bhav of Shri swaminiji and the Vraj bhaktas. Gunjamala represents the 4 types of soul’s Swamini-Bhav. White flower represents Shree Chandravaliji; Lotus resembles Swaminiji’s heart; Red flower represents Kumarika’s Bhav(Unmarried woman); Rose resembles the laughter swaroop of Shree Swaminiji (Radhaji). Other flowers and leaves resemble the bhav of Vraj Bhaktas.
Q. 79: What are the different bhavs of Venuji (Fluet)?
Ans: Venu gives Vraj Bhaktas the swaroop Anand of Thakorji. Out of it’s seven hole six represents the divine qualities o Thakorji, and the seventh represents Thakorji himself. With this bhav, the Venu is always with Thakorji. (Ashwaria ,Vihyya etc.)
Q. 80: What is the bhav of “Charansparsh” (touching Feet)?
Ans: The charnvind of Thakorji represents Bhakti swaroop; there fore, by touching the charnavind of Thakorji, Vaishnav’s bhakti bhav will increase. Prabhu’s(God) charnavind ruj (Dust particles from Thakorji’s feet) are to be put on one’s eyes, forehesd, and heart. By this Thakorji his feet on our eyes, forehead, and heart. Thus das bhav increases.Q. 81: How do we carry feelings of the temple in our house?
Ans: The small temple in our house represents the Nikunj of Gopijan. Through that Shree Thakorji will establish in our house; therefore, our house is called Gopijan Nikunj. Both doors of the temple represent the eye lids of Shri Swaminiji (Radhaji), who will grace us to open the eyes. This way we get darshan of Thakorji through the eyes of Shri Swaminiji.
Q. 82: What is the bhav of putting Tulsiji in Samagri?
Ans: Tulsiji is dearest to Thakorji. She removes the dosh in Samagri and enables the Samagri to be worthy for Thakorji.
Q. 83: What are some specific words used during seva?
Ans: Khasajal:- Holy water which is used in serving Shree Thakorji during seva. Kasana:- Thread of silk which is tied to the bed and takia (Pillow). Sohani - Buhari:- Brooming (Savarani). Abhayang:- To take a bath with amla and Chandan. Chhana:- Water purifier cloth. Angithi:- Coal burning equipment. Venu:- Fluet made out of wood. Vetra:- Stick (Chhadi). Khoovo:- Mavo (Milk products). Shirana:- Pillow which thakorji rests his head on.
Q. 84: What is the “Param Sadhan” (Cardinal principal) of Pushti Marg?
Ans: Param Sadhan of Pushti Marg is to serve Thakorji with innocent love. It is called “Seva” when all the senses and mind are completely concentrated in serving Thakorji. Seva should be performed heartedly, as the immortal love is another name ofThakorji. Thus, the Cardinal principal of Pushti Marg is to delite Thakorji. Seva can not be performed with our internal anxiety and innocent love. To perform seva with love is known as worship. Seva is to be performed for the happiness pleasure of Thakorji and not for one self.Q. 85: Since the Param Sadhan of Pushti Marg is seva, is there a need for vaishnavs to fast?
Ans: Yes the correct fast should be observed.
Q. 86: Who has the right to donate Naam Mantra (Brahmsabandh)?
Ans: The heires of Shree Vallabhacharya have the right to donate Naam Mantra (Brahmsabandh). Once the Naam Mantra is donated to children the heires of Vallabhacharya will give the Brahmsabandh mantra to children who have reached 9 years of age. This procedure will be followed according to rules of set by Shri Vallabhacharya.
Q. 87: Who can give Brahmsabandh Dixa ?
Ans: Only Shri Vallabhacharya and his heires are authorized to donate Brahmsabandh Dixa.
Q. 88: How many words are in Gadhya Mantra of Brahmsabandh Mantra?
Ans: The Gadhya Mantra of Brahmsabandh Mantra has 84 words.
Q. 89: When will a Vaishnav become merciful?
Ans: A vaishnav will become merciful With Daas Bhav (Disciple feeling) arises.
Q. 90: What are the 4 Jayantis (Birthdates) of Prabhu (God)? Why are only 4 taken in considerations in Pushti Marg?
Ans: The 4 Jayantis of different prabhu avatar are Krishna Jayanti, Vaman Jayanti, Ram Jayanti and Nurshinha Jayanti. These 4 avatars have established Pushti Marg principles and there fore Shri Mahaprabhuji has ordered to observe fasts on these days.
Q. 91: While performing seva of Thakorji, what should a Vaishnav wear?
Ans: Indian culture usually men wear Dhoti-Bandi or Uparno and has women wear Saari or Choli while performing seva of Thakorji in Upras (Clean and Untouched).
Q. 92: If prasdi mishri is mixed with regular food, which is not offered to god is it called offered edibles or is it called purified edibles?
Ans: It is called partially purified food. How ever, to eat partially purified food is better than to eat unoffered food.
Q. 93: Why should Vaishnav wear Tulsimala?
Ans: Tulsi is dearest to Thakorji and Shri Bhagavat Swaroop; therefore Vaishnavs must wear 2 Tulsi malas. Further more Tulsi is the eternal power to reach Thakorji, for it is donated to us by Shri Mahaprabhuji (& his heires) while speaking the Ashtakshar mantra. Thus a Vaishnav cannot live, even for a day, without wearing Tulsi.Q. 94: Why do Vaishnav’s present their “Kunti”in front of food before eating it?
Ans: It is not necessary to perform such actions. In reality only taking Thakorji’s Prasad is one of Pushti Marg’s rules. When Vaishnav’s feel guilty taking asamarpit food believing that kunti is bhagavat Swaroop, they present it to make the food pure.
Q. 95: Why should water be drunk from distance of mouth?
Ans: The bhav of drinking water from distance from mouth is so that the element of purity remains in both the hands and the vessels holding the water.Q. 96: Is there a danger of rebirth / re-incarnation for a Vaishnav who has taken Brahmsabandh?
Ans: Everyone on earth is taking birth again and again according to one’s owen karmas (actions). This is not the case for true pushti jivs (souls). Pushti jiv’s rebirth is subject to the desire of Thakorji and karma. The chief disciple of pushti Marg, Shri Damodardas Harsaniji , is taking birth again and again to guide Pushti Marg on the right path. Shri Mahaprabhuji him self ordered Damodardasji to take 10 births. Thus a Pushti jiv is subject to Reincarnation only by Thakorji’s wish and not by karma.
Q. 97: Can Vaishnav recite Shri Sarvottamji, Shri Yamunashtak, Sharan Mantra / Panchakshar Mantra / Gadhya Mantra at any time and at any place?
Ans: Yes. Shri Sarvottamji, Shri Yamunashtak, Sharan Mantra / Panchakshar Mantra / Gadhya Mantra can be recited at any time and place.
Q. 98: During what events seva of Thakorji cannot be performed?
Ans: Seva of Thakorji cannot be performed during:Q. 99: After taking a shower and observing a fast, can women on M.C. period perform Thakorji’s seva on the 3rd day?
Ans: No. Seva can only be started on the 5th day of M.C. period. This is to be done only after shower, this way the woman is purified.
Q. 100: Can Sutki (Sutak) vaishnavs have the darshan of Thakorji in temples?
Ans: During the period of Shri Gosaiji, Sutki Vaishnavs were allowed to have darshan through Shri Kumbhandasji’s help. They were allowed to have darshan only when Shri Jariji (Swaroop of Yamunaji) was not present. Also they were not allowed to touch any other Vaishnavs! If the temple has such accommodations, only then the Sutki Vaishnav have the darshan of Thakorji. Today Sutki Vaishnav’s have little knowledge of what to do; there fore it is not wrong for them to do the darshan of Thakorji.
Q. 101: At what age did Shri Vallabh complete his studies?
Ans: Shri Vallabh completed his studies at the age of 11.
Q. 102: Why did Laxman Bhattji and family leave their native place for Kashi (Varanasi - A City in India)?
Ans: Upon completion of 100 Som Yagnas, Shri Laxman Bhattji left his native place for Kashi to feed 125,000 Brahmins.
Q. 103: Who ordered Shri Vallabh to place Thakorji in a temple? Where was this order given?
Ans: Shri Thakorji ordered Shri Vallabh to take him out of Girikandra(Govardhan) mountain and place him in a temple. This order was given in Jarkhand.
Q. 104: Whom did Shri Vallabh allow to perform the seva of Thakorji for the 1st time when god was placed on a paat?
Ans: Shri Mahaprabhuji allowed Shri Ramdas Chauhan to perform Shrinathji’s seva.
Q. 105: At which location has the painter portrayed Shri Vallabhachrya’s picture?
Ans: Shri Vallabh’s portrait is on the Govind Ghat on the banks of Shri Yamunaji, in Gokul.