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How to Follow Neem Karoli Baba

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Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaj-ji, was a revered Indian saint and devotee of Hanuman. His teachings emphasize simplicity, love, devotion (bhakti), and selfless service (seva). Here’s how you can follow his spiritual path in Hinduism:

1. Core Philosophy

  • Simplicity: Neem Karoli Baba emphasized living a simple, spiritual life. Avoid unnecessary complexities and focus on the purity of heart.
  • Love and Service: Cultivate unconditional love for all beings. Practice kindness, charity, and service to those in need without expecting rewards.
  • Bhakti (Devotion): Neem Karoli Baba's primary path was bhakti, especially devotion to Hanuman, who symbolizes strength, devotion, and humility.

2. Simple Prayers

Devotees of Neem Karoli Baba often pray to Hanuman, as he is central to Maharaj-ji's teachings. Here are a few simple prayers:

Hanuman Chalisa (Opening Verses)

Recite the Hanuman Chalisa regularly. Here’s a simple starting verse:

"Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij mane Mukure Sudhari,
Barnau Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo Dayaku Phal Chari."

Translation: "Cleansing the mirror of my heart with the dust of my Guru's lotus feet, I describe the pure glory of Lord Hanuman, who bestows the four fruits of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha)."

Hanuman Gayatri Mantra

"Om Anjaneyaya Vidmahe Vayuputraya Dheemahi,
Tanno Hanumat Prachodayat."

Meaning: "We meditate upon the son of Anjana and the son of the Wind God. May Lord Hanuman guide and inspire us."

3. Simple Puja Steps

You can perform a simple puja at home to honor Neem Karoli Baba and Lord Hanuman:

  1. Prepare the Puja Area:

    • Clean the space and set up a small altar.
    • Place a picture or idol of Neem Karoli Baba and Hanuman.
    • Light a diya (oil lamp) and incense sticks.
    • Use red flowers, which are dear to Hanuman, and a few fruits as offerings.

  2. Begin with Ganesh Invocation:

    • Chant a simple Ganesh mantra like: "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" to remove obstacles.

  3. Offerings and Prayer:

    • Offer water, fruits, and red flowers to Neem Karoli Baba and Hanuman.
    • Recite the Hanuman Chalisa or chant simple mantras like: "Om Shri Hanumate Namah."

  4. Meditation:

    • Sit silently for a few minutes, visualizing Hanuman or Neem Karoli Baba, and focus on their qualities.

  5. Aarti:

    • Sing a Hanuman Aarti like: "Jai Hanuman Gyan Gun Sagar,
      Jai Kapis Tihun Lok Ujagar."

4. Clothes and Colors

  • Colors: Wear white, saffron, or red clothes during prayer and meditation, as these symbolize purity, devotion, and spiritual strength.
  • Simplicity: Neem Karoli Baba himself dressed simply in a white dhoti and shawl, symbolizing detachment and humility.

5. Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship

While Neem Karoli Baba emphasized Hanuman as the ideal deity, you can also worship:

  • Rama and Sita: As Hanuman's beloved Lord and Lady.
  • Shiva: As Hanuman is considered an incarnation of Shiva.
  • Durga or Kali: For strength and protection, complementing Hanuman's energy.

6. Mantras for Devotion

Include the following mantras in your practice:

Ram Naam

"Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram."

This is Neem Karoli Baba's most beloved mantra. Chanting it calms the mind and opens the heart.

Hanuman Mantra

"Om Namo Bhagavate Hanumate."

A simple and powerful mantra for invoking Hanuman's blessings.

7. Rare Facts about Neem Karoli Baba

  • Miracles: Neem Karoli Baba was known for performing miracles, such as healing illnesses, appearing in multiple places simultaneously, and providing divine guidance.
  • Modern Devotees: Famous figures like Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, and Julia Roberts have drawn inspiration from Neem Karoli Baba.
  • Universal Teachings: He welcomed people of all faiths, emphasizing unity and the universal truth of love and service.

8. Practical Steps and Ideas for Modern Times

  • Daily Practice: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily to prayer or meditation. Use this time to recite mantras or silently meditate on love and service.
  • Serve Others: Volunteer at a local shelter, help the needy, or perform acts of kindness in your community.
  • Read Spiritual Books: Explore texts like the Ramayana or books on Neem Karoli Baba's teachings, such as "Miracle of Love."
  • Digital Devotion: Follow online groups or listen to Hanuman bhajans to stay inspired.
  • Mindful Living: Embrace Neem Karoli Baba's teaching to "feed everyone," both literally and metaphorically, by sharing love and compassion.

9. Neem Karoli Baba’s Wisdom in Practice

  • "Love everyone. Serve everyone. Remember God."
    This is the essence of his teachings. Let these words guide your actions and thoughts daily.

By incorporating these steps and teachings, you can walk the path of devotion and service in alignment with Neem Karoli Baba’s spiritual legacy.