GM’S Speech – Annual Meeting Craft – New Delhi
On Saturday 22nd November 2014

I welcome you all to this Grand Festival which is happening in Delhi after three years.  We are having with us many eminent Masons from overseas. Their presence in our midst is a proof of the universality of Freemasonry, each of them has come from different parts of the world.

The beginning of last week in New Delhi at the Annual Penguin India Lecture Series the guest speaker celebrity writer Dan Brown enthralled the audience with his crisp 70 minute speech on ‘Science and Spirituality’, to such an extent that Rajdeep Sardesai, the convener, commented that Dan Brown has drawn more crowd than Amitabh Bacchan last year’s guest speaker at the same event. It is interesting to note the following conversation from page 99 of ‘The Lost Symbol’. The cover page of his famous novel. The Lost Symbol depicts a Key with the Square and Compass Symbol.

CIA Director Sato “You were talking about secret wisdom protected by an enlightened few. That sounds very Masonic. Does it not?”

Robert Langdon (the central Character in the Novel) “The entire Masonic Philosophy is built on honesty and integrity. Masons are among the most trustworthy men you could ever hope to meet.”

Sato “I have seen persuasive evidence to the contrary”

Langdon “Masons have always been one of the most unfairly maligned and misunderstood organization in the world. Regularly accused of everything from Devil Worship to plotting a one world government. Masons also have a policy of never responding to their critics which made them an easy target.”

Coming back to the subject of Science and Spirituality it is seen that societies of the east have tended to dwell more on the soul and the spiritual aspects, while Western societies have dwelt more on mind and matter. Both perspectives are incomplete – we can discern in the world today that while the East is hungry for wealth, the West is hungry for soul and perhaps to be complete there is a need for holistic integration of both.

Let me site one great example of holistic integration of science and spirituality. About 10 years ago, on June 18, 2004, an unusual new landmark was unveiled at CERN, the European Center for Research in Particle Physics in Geneva — a 2m tall statue of the Indian deity Shiva Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. The statue, symbolizing Shiva's cosmic dance of creation and destruction, was given to CERN by the Indian government to celebrate the research center's long association with India.

In choosing the image of Shiva Nataraja, the Indian government acknowledged the profound significance of the metaphor of Shiva's dance for the cosmic dance of subatomic particles, which is observed and analyzed by CERN's physicists. The parallel between Shiva's dance and the dance of subatomic particles was first discussed by Fritjof Capra in an article titled "The Dance of Shiva: Shiva's cosmic dance became a central metaphor or allegory in Capra's international bestseller The Tao of Physics, first published in 1975 and still in print in over 40 editions around the world.

Lodge Shiva manifests the triple power of the divine in the beautiful concept of Nataraja, Lord of the Cosmic Dance. In the upper right hand the divine dancer holds the dumroo a small two faced drum shaped like an hourglass which represents the sound originating creation or Naad or word from which all existence springs. Each beat of the dumroo could perhaps be compared with the Big Bang whereby millions of galaxy spring into being. In his upper left hand he holds the sacred fire, it symbolizes the ultimate destruction of these worlds in the cycles of time. The second right hand shows the Abhaya Mudra meaning fearlessness reassuring the devotee to be free from fear. The second left hand points towards his upraised foot showing the path to salvation. Natraja dances on a dwarf representing our limited human ego which has to be suppressed but not destroyed, while the nimbus or the circle of light around him represents the great Kalachakra, the unending wheel of time. As the Lord of Dance performs the Tandava, the dance in which the universe is created maintained and dissolved. The snake swirling around his waist is Kundalini, the Shakti or divine force that resides in the Muladhar Chakra at the base of the spine.

Coming back to the Tao of Physics, the idea that everything physical in this universe comes from one source, is getting approval and general acceptance amongst most physicist. In 2004, the noble prize in physics was given in the words of the noble committee “For contribution towards the theory of everything” The rather audacious theory aims to show that considering all the fundamental particles that makeup at least everything physical , this universe and you are nothing but different aspects of one single source. If the knowledge that everything in this universe comes from one single source takes root in our consciousness can you see the profound impact it will have? Doesn’t this mean that humanity is of each other. It shouldn’t really make any difference whether you black, white, brown or yellow; whether you are a Christian, Jew, Muslim or a Hindu. Yet we see that these differences are causing gruesome conflict in the world today. We desperately need the feeling of universal brotherhood that results in the realization that everything comes from a single source.

Long Long ago there was a Grand Master well known for his ability to mentor great kings. Once the Chinese emperor went up to him seeking his help to groom his young prince aged 13 years to become a mighty king. The Grand Master said that the prince will have to stay in my school for 5 years and undergo rigorous training.

The Grand Master devoted the first three years to groom him as a great warrior and an able ruler. In the next phase of mentoring he was asked to travel around the entire kingdom and return after one year. On his return when asked to narrate the experiences the prince recounted his experiences with villagers, tribals as also town and city dwellers, their lifestyles, their problems, their concerns, beliefs, cultures, rituals etc.  He talked in depth for five days, how he integrated with the community without disclosing his identity. However, the Grand Master was not satisfied.

He asked the young prince to stay in the forest for nine months and then report. Now it took only one day for him to describe his salient experiences. He described the chirping of the birds, the roar of the lion, the trumpeting of the elephants, mooing of the cows, and the magnificent beauty of the forest, the blue waters, and the white clouds. He used this journey to develop heightened sensitivity and self-reflection. The Grand Master was still not satisfied.

He sent him again into the forest for three months. This time when the prince returned, it took only one minute to share his experiences. He said Grand Master, during my stay in the forest, I heard the sound of the sunrays warming the petals of the Roses. I heard the sound of the lotus blooming. I heard the sound of the unborn child. A delighted Grand Master nodded approvingly and proclaimed “oh Prince”! You have finally succeeded in developing the deepest level of Mystery, a Mastery over self and Capability to integrate the same with the outer world.  Now you have developed the rare capability to see beyond the obvious and anticipate the future. In the first one year you trained yourself to look around and integrate yourself with the surroundings. In the next nine months you disciplined yourself to look within and now in the last three months you have learnt the art of looking beyond. Thus you shall be a mighty king because you have mastered the art of looking around, looking within and looking beyond. You have realized that there is a higher self within you that transcends the limitations of the physical world.

Getting totally immersed in what you do is an out of body experience like nothing else on earth. In the book ‘Zen and the art of Archery’ the pupil after missing the target several times asked the master, “What is the secret?” The Master replies, “As you stretch the bow you must become the arrow. This way you will hit the bull’s eye every time.”

Mastering the art of looking around, looking within and looking beyond. That is the Grand Design.

The second year commenced with consecration of new craft lodge, Justice Najrajan No. 385 in Selam in Southern Region and concluded with consecration of Lodge Dr. Gaur Hari Singhania No. 391 at Kanpur in the Northern Region. Thus during the year seven new Craft Lodge have been consecrated. 4 in Northern Region and 3 in Southern Region. In the Northern Region two new lodges have been consecrated with more than 100 petitioners. Lodge Shoolini No. 387 in Solan and Lodge Dr. Gaur Hari Singhania No. 391 in Kanpur.  After 3 decades, Masonry was revived in Srinagar, with the consecration of Lodge Jannat –e- Kashmir in March 2014. The formation of this Lodge helped the Northern Region to undertake the various relief operations in Srinagar during the floods and deluge in October this year. Long term Service jewels of 50 years and above have been presented at 21 different centres. Four visits in Eastern Region 8 in Northern Region and 9 in Southern Region. 2 Lodges celebrated centenary, Lodge Murray Hammick No. 90 at Chittor in the Southern region celebrated centenary on 20.1.14 and Lodge Deolali No. 91 celebrated its centenary in Mumbai in the Western Region on 29.03.2014. In the Northern Region at four different places, foundation stone laying ceremonies were conducted and in the southern region at two places. Total number of meetings attended during the year has been 95 as against 110 in the first year.  42 in the Northern Region, 35 in the Southern, 12 in Eastern and 6 in the Western Region. All in all a happy healthy and eventful year as far as Masonic events, growth and development is concerned.

In my first year, I could not visit any of the foreign Grand Lodges inspite there being numerous invitations to attend. The first visit abroad this year in the month of May was to attend the World Conference at Bucharest , the capital city of Romania in Eastern Europe. A Grand Masonic extravaganza spread over 5 days which was attended by the Grand Masters and delegates from more than 156 Grand Lodges all over the world. I was accompanied by R.W. Bro. Kamakoti, R.W. Bro. Adi Vakil, R.W. Bro. George Duke, R.W. Bro. Ramabrahmam, R .W.Bro. Thirugananamurthy.  In June of this year, I had the unique opportunity of witnessing the installation of the new Pro-Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England at Freemasons Hall London.  A glittering ceremony organised with great discipline and clockwork precision. It was truly a marvelous Masonic experience to cherish. The next day I attended the quarterly communication of the United Grand Lodge of England which again was a unique experience. I was accompanied at both the functions by R.W. Bro. Harcharansingh Ranauta and R.W. Bro. Adi Vakil. At both the official events the team from the Grand Lodge of India was extended a very warm and affectionate welcome.

Brethren, last 15 months have seen natural calamities of grave magnitude in different parts of the country. June 2013 Floods in Uttarakhand. September 2014 Deluge in Srinagar and Cyclone in October 2014 in Vishakapatanam, which have brought destruction and devastation in the affected regions. The Northern Region and Southern Region immediately responded with relief measures on a massive scale. Both these regions individually and collectively with their strong team of volunteers lead by the respective Regional Grand Masters performed a marvelous feat of empathy and support.  Words would not suffice to describe the gallant efforts made by our brethren. I call upon the Grand Director of Ceremonies to present the audio visual power point presentation.  This covers Uttarakhand, Kashmir and Vishakhapatnam.
 
Gandhiji was a great motivator who understood that real communication is emotional communication. He knew that you could change more people’s attitude through warm human sentiments than with cold rationality. Mahatma relied on emotion. The British applied reason and they lost their jewel in the crown.

It’s time for thanksgiving and appreciation of the Team. R.W. Bro. Kamakoti OSM served as Grand Secretary with two Grand Masters M.W.Bro. Dr. Biswakumar for 3 years and with me for 2 years. RWBro. Kamakaoti, your services to the Grand Lodge of India for 5 years have been valuable and shall be remembered for years to come. Next to Late R.W. Bro. Bhai Mohansingh, our present Grand Treasurer R.W. Bro. B. K. Raizada   has served the longest term as Grand Treasurer in the history of Grand Lodge of India. Successive Grand Masters have reposed their trust and entrusted the  finances of the Grand Lodge in his able hands and I am no exception.My entire term of three years RWBro. Raizada is the Grand Treasurer.   Grand Registrar R. W. Bro. Ramasamy , inspite of health deterrents has been proactively assisting the Secretariat at all times with solutions within the framework of our revered Book of Constitution and yes, great support from the President of the Board R. W. Bro. Varanasi Narsimham, OSM during the two years . All the 9 board Meetings were conducted smoothly under his president ship. I thank my Deputy Grand Master for two years R.W. Bro. Dr. P.K. Muthukumaraswamy a leading oncologist from Madurai who despite his hectic schedule duly attended the various meetings, seminars and consecrations of Lodges and Chapters.  R. W. Bro. Anishkumar Sharma as Asst. Grand Master was always supportive. I thank the Wardens R.W. Bro. George Duke, R.W. Bro. Amalendu Sen and R.W. Bro. Arun Pinto. I am indeed fortunate to have support and co-operation of such multifaceted talent.
Oration by the Grand Chaplin is always the hallmark of the consecration ceremonies. I have heard some of the brilliant and thought provoking orations from the Grand Chaplin in Craft R.W. Bro. Keshav Rao and R.W. Bro. Thirugnanamurthy in Mark and RAM.

I thank each and every Active officer of Grand Lodge of India during the year and especially those who travelled long distances as part of the Grand Lodge deputation on numerous occasions at their own cost and giving their valuable and precious time.  My profound appreciation for the quality time spent with you my dear active officers of the Grand Lodge of India.

 I wish to record my deep sense of appreciation to all the past Grand Masters and especially M.W. Bro. Dilip Udeshi  as Chairman of the Constitution committee. M.W. Bro. Justice Devinder Gupta as Chairman of Foreign Relations Committee and M.W. Bro. Dr. Biswakumar Chairman of the Protocol Committee. I also thank R.W. Bro. Rajeev Khandelwal, Chairman of the Finance Committee especially for offering his assistance and support to the Grand Treasurer as and when called for. I thank all the presiding officers and members of the appeals court and the staff members of the Grand Lodge Secretariat especially the Asst. Grand Secretary R.W. Bro. Anup Kumar.

The Chairman of various Committees with their team members have been handling their respective portfolios in a professional manner. The ladies I am informed are particularly happy with the gifts and mementos provided as also the sightseeing and entertainment programs. A word of appreciation for the President of the Masonic Ladies Association of Delhi Mrs.Veeny      
Singh and her team.

Not many may be aware of the qualifications of a Regional Grand Master. I shall speak about the non-masonic qualifications first. To my mind a good Regional Grand Master should have a high emotional quotient, motivation willingness to travel extensively in his region and effective communication. The Masonic qualifications are that the incumbent must be a Senior Grand Lodge officer in Craft, Chapter and Mark. Must possess requisite Masonic Knowledge in rituals, landmarks and constitutions of the order.

There is a famous statement attributed to King Solomon, “The swiftest man did not always win the race, the strongest man did not always win the battle and wealth did not necessarily accrue to men of wisdom. It was all largely a matter of chance.”
In the early part of the new millennium, there were four ARGM’s in the western region who represented the second rung of leadership.  In 2005, the then Grand Master had four choices. Masurekar, Khandelwal, Zawareh Wadia and Adi Vakil.  He chose Masurekar in 2005. It was largely a matter of chance. Masurekar was followed by Khandelwal and then Zawareh Wadia. The last of the quartet now is the next Regional Grand Master of Western India. R.W. Bro. Ardeshir Sarosh Vakil shall be installed as the Regional Grand Master of the Regional Grand Lodge of Western India on Saturday 10th January 2015 at Garware Hall, Mumbai, and the same venue where the Grand Festival 2013 was celebrated.

And finally, To each and every one of you I give my fraternal Greetings and through you to your lodges and the brethren of your lodge. And to your families and loved ones a wish that the coming year will be one of happiness ,cheer ,sound health and all round prosperity , in thoughts and deeds as well.

Amen

Vasudev Masurekar