tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67847842156683336472024-03-20T20:39:40.281+05:30Legacy of Wisdom"The only major purpose of a book on mysticism should be to persuade the reader to ENGAGE in mystical practice". By KEN WILBER.A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.comBlogger250125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-54491157048238720732020-04-10T20:54:00.000+05:302020-04-10T20:54:06.159+05:30Why Modak is Ganesha's favourite?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfOyB_MXMnG_iyEozNS7AyZ4oNVq_G8DDz8Gpck8zLUIvBWSk0rpI8avsx9YZdT4gRkir0eavyoymOVp7qSBbYStMaWFIrvnaSHXV7Kaz924-coerHn-JHnCAau7B8MzEnLDwIrr1eSOp/s1600/Sandesh-Modak.0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfOyB_MXMnG_iyEozNS7AyZ4oNVq_G8DDz8Gpck8zLUIvBWSk0rpI8avsx9YZdT4gRkir0eavyoymOVp7qSBbYStMaWFIrvnaSHXV7Kaz924-coerHn-JHnCAau7B8MzEnLDwIrr1eSOp/s400/Sandesh-Modak.0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ganesha is fond of a particular sweet called <b><i>Modaka. </i></b> <i><b>Modaka</b></i> is a steamed dumpling made of rice flour dough containing jaggery and coconut and sesame.</div>
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The shape and constitute of <i><b>Modaka</b></i> is very significant. It looks like a bag of money, similar to one carried by Kuber, treasurer of the gods. Thus, is it a symbol of wealth, and all the sweet pleasures that wealth gives man. </div>
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It is also shaped like an upward pointing triangle, which, in <i>Tantrik </i>art, represents spiritual reality, in contrast to the downward pointing triangle which represents material reality. </div>
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Thus the Modaka has the aesthetics and flavor of material reality but the geometry of spiritual reality. </div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the Book on "99 Thoughts on GANESHA" by Devdutt Pataanik</i></div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-53434796289021548222020-04-06T21:39:00.000+05:302020-04-06T21:39:46.291+05:30THE FOUR CASTES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>VARNA DHARMA</i> </b></span><br />
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The word <b>'</b><i><b>VARNA DHARMA'</b>,</i> means the duties prescribed for each caste. The word 'caste' is a problem for many people today because over time, the whole idea has come to be entirely misunderstood.</div>
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<b>MEANING OF THE WORD <i>'VARNA DHARMA</i>':</b></div>
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In Sanskrit, <i>varna</i> means to describe or that by which a thing is described. <i>Varna </i>can also mean name, color, form, quality, relationship and so on, because we describe a thing according to these attributes. When we study a science, botany or zoology for instance, the entire vegetable and animal kingdom are classified according to similar qualities and attributes. The same is true in the material sciences such as physics and chemistry, where elements and minerals of similar properties are grouped together.</div>
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Among human beings there is also much variety in color, shape, ability, mental temperament, and so on. When we say that all human beings are equal, we mean this to be true from the spiritual standpoint, in that each one has capacity to do something, whatever it may be. Each one has a particular ability by nature: One person performs physical labour, another writes poetry, or does public speaking, and yet another does social service work. Thus just as objects and beings are classified in other sciences according to their different natures, spiritual science also classifies society into four groups, the <i>catur varna. </i>These four types of people are found everywhere in the world, not just in India. In this regard, Lord Krishna makes a famous statement in the <i>Bhagavad Gita, </i>which says:</div>
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<i><b>THE FOUR-FOLD CASTES HAS BEEN CREATED BY ME ACCORDING TO THE DIFFERENTIATION OF GUNAS (QUALITY) AND KARMA (ACTION). (IV: 13)</b></i></div>
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There must always be a basis for classifications. For example, countries of the world are classified as "third-world countries," "developed nations," or "underdeveloped nations." But, what is the standard of measurement here? From what stand point is one country considered developed or underdeveloped? Because if we look from a spiritual standpoint, those that are considered materially underdeveloped might be the most developed spiritually. The <i>catur varna</i> are classified based on <i>guna</i> and <i>karma</i>.<br />
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<i><b>CASTE BASED ON KARMA</b></i></div>
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[1] <i><b>Brahmins</b> </i><b>(the thinking class): </b>With respect to this first category, <i>karma </i>would mean one's ability to study, research, invent, discover, teach, and do other such work that requires much thought. Everyone is not able to do this. Just as we see the number of dropouts from secular schools increasing, the same is true in the spiritual field. </div>
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From Vedic times onwards, those who were of an intellectual nature, capable of studying and teaching, were called <i>brahmins, </i>the thinking class. This is why every organization always has an advisory board -- a "think tank" -- to create new ideas and make decisions. </div>
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[2] <b><i>Ksatriyas </i>(the leader class):</b> The <i> </i>second category is capable of leading the society towards the ideals shown by the <i>brahmins, </i>of looking after the people and of courageously fighting battles when necessary. Though the "thinker" has visions or ideals for society, he does not always have the capacity to bring them about in a practical way. Hence, the <i>ksatriya</i> is needed, as this type of person can act on the ideas. The <i>ksatriyas</i> are the natural-born leaders of society.</div>
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[3] <i><b>Vaisyas</b> </i><b>(the business class)</b>: The third category, that of the <i>vaisyas, </i>have a propensity to produce wealth, not only for themselves but for society at large. These are the people engaged in agriculture, cattle-raising and other businesses. We all know that not everybody has this business tendency and know-how. <i> </i></div>
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[4] <i><b>Sudras </b></i>(the labour class): The fourth category is made-up of those who perform service <i>(seva). </i>They are not capable of thinking of ideas, leading the society, or producing much wealth, but when they are told what needs to be done, they will do it. Therefore, in every organization, there are people who give suggestions and make plans, others who put the plans into action, others who do the fund raising, and still others, who do whatever practical labour needs to be done.</div>
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The main point is that everybody is capable of doing one thing or another, and no category is in any way inferior to another. In fact, when you understand the real meaning of the four <i>varnas, </i>you will see that each of us is really a <i>brahmin, ksatriya, vaisya </i>and <i>sudra, </i>all put together in one! Personally, I find this is true: in one field I am able to have an idea or vision, but I am not able to work, but do not have creative ideas Practically speaking, all four types are necessary in our individual lives, in the family units, and in social activities. Yet a person is called a <i>brahmin, ksatriya, vaisya, </i>or <i>sudra</i> depending on whether his or her nature is predominantly that of a thinker, leader, business person, or worker.</div>
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<i><b>CASTE ACCORDING TO GUNA:</b></i></div>
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As Lord Krishna explained in the <i>Bhagavad Gita, </i>the classification of castes is also based on one's inner mental qualities or <i>gunas</i>. It is said that human nature and all nature (<i>prakriti) </i>is composed of three <i>gunas: sattva, rajas and tamas.</i></div>
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<i><b>Sattvoguna</b> </i>is of the nature of knowledge: a desire for knowledge and the qualities of love, faith, kindness and compassion. The <i>rajoguna </i>is of the nature of activity. Numerous desires and ambitions are its manifestations. <i>Tamas </i>is of the nature of inertia, and it manifests as dullness and little interest or ambition of any kind.</div>
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A <i><b>Brahmin</b> </i>is described as one who predominantly <i>sattvic, </i>with some <i>rajas</i> and a little <i>tamas </i>in his personality. A <i>ksatriya </i>is one who is predominantly <i>rajasic, </i>a very ambitious person, with some <i>sattva </i>and a little <i>tamas </i>in him. A <i>vaisya</i> is one in whom the <i>guna </i>of <i>rajas</i> is predominant, yet with almost as much as <i>tamas</i> and the least amount of <i>sattvoguna. </i>The <i>sudra</i> is predominantly <i>tamasic, </i>with some <i>rajas</i> and very little <i>sattva.</i></div>
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<i> </i>In conclusion, we have seen that the division of the <i>varna asramas</i> is based on action (<i>karma</i>) and quality (<i>guna) </i>-- not on birth (<i>janma</i>), as is commonly understood today. In fact, the <i>Manu Smriti</i> says that everyone is actually born as <i>sudra (janmana jayate sudrah) </i>because at birth we are basically the raw material of life, from which anything can be made. We cannot judge what a person will be by what caste he is born into, for a <i>brahmin</i> can become <i>sudra and a sudra</i> can become a <i>brahmin. </i>Some people live an inspired life in their youth, but later on become dull and debased. While others begin life by being dull, but become very bright and successful later on.</div>
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<i> </i>How, then, did this caste-by-birth system come about? This has happened only in the last several hundred years, when people with <i>brahmin qualities, </i>for instance, began to marry only those people with similar qualities. Children born into such a family were then called <i>brahmins. </i>However, this was not the original intent nor the basis upon which the <i>varnas</i> were actually divided. As it is said in the <i>Canakya Sutra, </i>"A person should be engaged only in a field of activity that he is capable of doing."</div>
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When this principle is followed there is no problem. Furthermore, if everyone has the attitude that I am capable of doing this particular work and am doing it to serve the society, then naturally there will be <i>dharma, </i>the total integration of society as well as of the individual. If we do not have this understanding, disintegration will be the result.</div>
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<i><b>Devotion to one's Duty:</b></i></div>
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As explained earlier, <i>dharma</i> is that which integrates the individual as well as society and enables one to ultimately reach the true <i>dharma, </i>abidance in the absolute nature of the Self. Whether one is capable of thinking and planning of leading, creating wealth, or doing manual labour, <i>dharma </i>is fulfilled when people of all four castes, or <i>varnas, </i>perform their duties and responsibilities completely in an attitude of selflessness. In the field of education, for instance, if the students are sincerely interested in their studies, if the teachers are devoted to their profession, and if the administration is devoted to its own task, the schools will run smoothly. At home, if mother, father and children all fulfil their duties devotedly, there will be sweetness and peace in the house, but if everyone argues and wants to give up their own duty, saying, "Why do I have to do this, why do you not do it?" there will only be friction. Disharmony comes about only when we are careless and forgetful of our duties. <br />
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<b>In the <i>Bhagavad Gita, </i>Lord Krishna says, "Engaged in one's own duty, one attains perfection." [XVIII:45]. </b><br />
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Devotion to duty gives us purity of mind and this purity brings about inner perfection and complete Self-unfoldment. A doctor does not have to do the work of a Lawyer, and a Lawyer does not have to do the work of an engineer. Each one should remain devoted to the work of which he is capable. Perfection of a worldly kind too, even national fame, is attainable by one who devotes his or her entire energy to his or her special field of interest and talent.<br />
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<b><i>DEDICATED ACTION:</i></b><br />
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With what attitude should we perform our work? The Lord tells us in the Gita:<br />
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He from whom all beings have evolved, by whom all this world is pervaded, worshiping Him with one's own duty, one attains perfection. [XVIII:46]<br />
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Whatever work we do should be looked upon as duty and should be done as worship of the Lord in an attitude of dedication and surrender. Which Lord should we worship? We should worship that supreme Lord from whom this entire world has emerged and by whom this entire world is pervaded. Work done with this attitude of worship of the infinite Lord is called as true <i>karma</i>.<br />
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To understand how dedicated action integrates society, let us take an example of how a good cup of coffee is made. First we must have the four ingredients: water, coffee powder, milk and sugar. The nature of the water is not that of the powder; the nature of the powder is not the same as the sugar. Each ingredient has its own special quality. We cannot say that one ingredient is more important than the other. Here there is no question of superiority or inferiority. But when all four ingredients are mixed together in proper proportion and each ingredient surrenders or offer its quality for the sake of the whole, then that coffee is wonderful! Imagine if the coffee powder says, "I am superior! Why should I surrender?" and it decides to withdraw its quality! The result will be no coffee at all.<br />
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Society is something like this cup of coffee. It is made up of its four ingredients, the four castes, and each one has its own nature, its own special contribution to make to the whole. None is superior to the other. If each individual becomes dedicated to offer his or her own best qualities in serving others, the result will be a better society.<br />
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Problems in society arise only when we assume a mistaken sense of superiority and inferiority. Though in India they say problems are because of the caste system, we find that the same kinds of pressure exist almost everywhere, in communist, capitalist, or social countries, whether or no the divions of people are called <i>brahmins, ksatriyas, </i>and so on. If it is not a problem of caste, it may be due to racial discrimination or something else. when individual or racial discrimination or something else. When individuals or racial discrimination or something else. When individuals or racial groups think themselves superior to others, they will want to exercise authority over the other parties. This may continue for sometime. But how long will the oppressed remain suppressed and controlled? Sooner or later they will revolt and a struggle of some kind will ensure, sometimes even leading to war.<br />
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Remember, it is not that something is necessarily wrong with the social or political system. The system can only work property when all its component parts work in harmony and with dedication. The present degraded condition in India and everywhere else in the world is due only to human's greed, selfishness, pride, arrogance and other such negative qualities.<br />
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In summary, <i>varna asrama dharma</i> is the fulfillment of all our duties given to us according to our station or stage in life, performed in an attitude of worship, and offered to the Lord for the benefit of the entire society. </div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-68586504010539886302019-09-29T21:51:00.000+05:302019-09-29T21:51:18.956+05:30THE LEGEND OF GODDESS KANYA KUMARI <h2>
GODDESS KANYAKUMARI</h2>
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KANYA-KUMARI MEANING:</h3>
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<b>Kanyakumari</b> is the Southern tip of Indian peninsula where three water bodies - Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal -- meet. It is also the shrine of the goddess of the same name. The word KANYAKUMARI is the portmanteau of the words KANYA meaning 'Young Girl' and KUMARI meaning 'UNMARRIED'. The word KUMARI also has the implications of being virgin.</div>
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A young girl, Kanya-kumari, meaning one who is virgin, invokes Shiva and expresses her desire to be his wife. Shiva agrees. But the devas are not pleased with this news. As long as Kanya-kumari is without husband and children, she has the power to kill demons. </div>
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Her power unused in marriage and motherhood will also prevent the sea from overwhelming the land. So they go out of their way to disrupt this wedding. They tell Kanya-kumari that to ensure the marriage is a happy one she has to marry at sunrise the following day. But Shiva lives far away in the north of Mount Kailas; he must be asked to set forth immediately and travel through the night. </div>
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Shiva agrees to travel fast, eager to meet his bride, while Kanya-kumari spends the night preparing the wedding feast, adorning herself with cosmetics and jewellery. </div>
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In the middle of the night, the devas take the form of roosters and start to crow. Shiva thinks the sun is about to rise and that he will not make it to the wedding on time. So he turns around, disappointed. When the sun really does rise, there is no sign of Shiva. </div>
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A heartbroken Kanya-kumari breaks all the pots containing the wedding feast; the pulses and grains turn into the colorful sand that one finds near the southern tip of India. She washes away her cosmetics in the sea: that is why the sea is multi-coloured there. </div>
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She stands on the Southern tip, killing demons, preventing the sea from overwhelming the land and, like a divine beacon, enabling fishermen to battle tempestuous seas and come home safe to their wives.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXeVy6ZHCHriukf61Mdl69Fh56g0MdB5qocobx91VQBvKjSZPcvorrkEkoo5NXfTPBF5wzrl948eEMYTP6i9ljrnPRhzQABywV_EMPMpRKYvwi7s7XNWLbWe-cXlKX7CXtdAV7JTyIrB3X/s1600/kanya+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXeVy6ZHCHriukf61Mdl69Fh56g0MdB5qocobx91VQBvKjSZPcvorrkEkoo5NXfTPBF5wzrl948eEMYTP6i9ljrnPRhzQABywV_EMPMpRKYvwi7s7XNWLbWe-cXlKX7CXtdAV7JTyIrB3X/s320/kanya+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from 7 Secrets of the Goddess by Devdutt Pattnaik</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-63165408846796263372019-01-14T14:06:00.001+05:302019-01-14T14:09:21.735+05:30Hindu Tradition of Piercing Baby's Ears <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5qYPASSOpW7Q85YP0erXvM34ScVmNGRvxM8qYUeUqIYt-L62qLs_m5ANxrXUBX2xGh7-ncbZ2O2yZRVgwBBSn8keowyEoHCFe9xlyLg90yX6433qtLIiNuZfZbS99xOKUjvi3Sdq0ep-/s1600/Ear-720x340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="720" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5qYPASSOpW7Q85YP0erXvM34ScVmNGRvxM8qYUeUqIYt-L62qLs_m5ANxrXUBX2xGh7-ncbZ2O2yZRVgwBBSn8keowyEoHCFe9xlyLg90yX6433qtLIiNuZfZbS99xOKUjvi3Sdq0ep-/s400/Ear-720x340.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Origin and Early History</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXBdckfi8yARdvYUa1_vseEfSdev01UrylJXpMYHgOOefvIysh3HhMqWv4uh4a5tdQNArT-DBZzEAmIQU_lDHK1tnVR0ae33pDyaNzrryozxryZ0BOl5fiwgQqfSY614EOLBRZeLdbl_F/s1600/piercing-baby%2527s-ears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="450" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXBdckfi8yARdvYUa1_vseEfSdev01UrylJXpMYHgOOefvIysh3HhMqWv4uh4a5tdQNArT-DBZzEAmIQU_lDHK1tnVR0ae33pDyaNzrryozxryZ0BOl5fiwgQqfSY614EOLBRZeLdbl_F/s320/piercing-baby%2527s-ears.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Boring of different limbs for wearing ornaments is current among savage peoples all over the world. So its origin is very ancient. But even when civilization progressed, ornamentation continued, though it was refined. In the case of boring ears, it was undoubtedly ornamental in its origin, but later on it proved to be useful, and for emphasizing its necessity, it was given a religious coloring. Ears of a child should be bore for protection [from diseases] and decoration. It is explicitly prescribes the boring of ears for preventing hydrocele and hernia. Thus, it was a precaution taken early in life, so that the chances of the above diseases may be minimised.</div>
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The cause of the late inclusion of this ceremony in the list of the Samskaras is that its original purpose was decorative and there was the absence of any religious idea associated with it. It was only in very wide sense that it entered the holy precincts of the Samskaras.</div>
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But there is one hymn in the Atharvaveda which refers to ear-boring. </div>
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The Age and Time of Performance</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAPJkw9qABHm5dhlqKNCcwMLZjc7V6WySXBunmfWl3fySQgQKdxOrEIs7JeywjoqKUYeNgGxMoutOOLzfxalTH72mcjhtjttmbJiUeqO14Go_jrO0NTscfy0Pi4C_SGCfgAwibd61OYAaU/s1600/ear+piercing.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAPJkw9qABHm5dhlqKNCcwMLZjc7V6WySXBunmfWl3fySQgQKdxOrEIs7JeywjoqKUYeNgGxMoutOOLzfxalTH72mcjhtjttmbJiUeqO14Go_jrO0NTscfy0Pi4C_SGCfgAwibd61OYAaU/s320/ear+piercing.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This ceremony was performed on the tenth, the twelfth or the sixteenth day after the bird of the child according to Brhaspati.</div>
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Garga regards the sixth, the seventh, the eighth or the twelfth month as suitable periods. In the opinion of Sripati, the Karnavedha ceremony should be performed before teeth of the child come out, and while it is still creeping on the lap of the mother. The Katyama Sutra, however, prescribes the proper time of performing the ceremony in the third or fifth year of the child. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyz_b8BNFDKu3VNxi0Z79vxXn80Cji2eENNyCjscOwcoz_x-S1CD34QX6HyjhKyld2F0tYbJ74B7yJ8TWpA_J0nsoSv4Ermm_phN70BrqgeYQdgRWDvT6pmuV45zgzzcuK-r27g8csR5K/s1600/piercing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="702" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyz_b8BNFDKu3VNxi0Z79vxXn80Cji2eENNyCjscOwcoz_x-S1CD34QX6HyjhKyld2F0tYbJ74B7yJ8TWpA_J0nsoSv4Ermm_phN70BrqgeYQdgRWDvT6pmuV45zgzzcuK-r27g8csR5K/s320/piercing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The idea of underlying the early age was that the boring would be easier and less troublesome to the child. Taking physical facility into consideration Susruta prefers the sixth or the seventh month. At present it is performed with the Upanayana.</div>
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The Performer</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AQU0F4J_UvJDpl5VNpvHhj4Z7Iy41lgo0n3OzhgHjTnpZfDeH2dI056r4GnVc7vpRsCtyfhG5jL4NTd7k5squ01ksQubezpYQSvpNRSLjrEuS8p_6YBnDCRK8P1dv_1iNrRV1h-vXPF8/s1600/ear-piercing-ceremony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="620" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5AQU0F4J_UvJDpl5VNpvHhj4Z7Iy41lgo0n3OzhgHjTnpZfDeH2dI056r4GnVc7vpRsCtyfhG5jL4NTd7k5squ01ksQubezpYQSvpNRSLjrEuS8p_6YBnDCRK8P1dv_1iNrRV1h-vXPF8/s320/ear-piercing-ceremony.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the opinion of the Katyayana Sutra father performed the ceremony, but it is silent as to who should bore the ears. According to Susruta a surgeon should pierce the ears. But Sripati, a medieval writer, allows this privilege to a professional needle-maker, more often a goldsmith. Susruta was more reasonable in his prescription than Sripati. The goldsmith, however, has acquired a hereditary experience and in the majority of cases it is he who is invited to bore the ears.</div>
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The Types of Needle</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBE6jYUAFxIG1_4kXgfYcCDjgTl6tT4vycDdyNRVE5Cy_COs4V0OnfMIF9IXQRYh5fF30RG371PMz4oawCAOkgY_wIlXxcosY2UTjBO9YxgLihyNCh_MQ0rcvEQl561Ew8PCEeg4OC7cE/s1600/ear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="504" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBE6jYUAFxIG1_4kXgfYcCDjgTl6tT4vycDdyNRVE5Cy_COs4V0OnfMIF9IXQRYh5fF30RG371PMz4oawCAOkgY_wIlXxcosY2UTjBO9YxgLihyNCh_MQ0rcvEQl561Ew8PCEeg4OC7cE/s320/ear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The types of needle with which the ears were bored are also determined by writers on ritual. "Gold needle lends elegance, but one can use silver or even iron needle according to his means." Description was made according to the caste of the child. "The needle for a prince should be made of gold, that of a Brahmana and a Vaisya made of silver and that of a Sudra made of iron. The basis of this differential treatment was economic.</div>
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A Compulsory Ceremony</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1TedKKeMMLT0vyJLrlNyqz7Fuo-dXewDfrvOrbRasE5vPBsP2fJZgnx2u6rJLBP9rE26nTLJkVEZe6oAWC_i23rsP6WqMuMGkSfvxj1AzcOR_nwGcGmDE9Dy-DAfBz5WmR3btRcJ-dHa/s1600/ear+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="830" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1TedKKeMMLT0vyJLrlNyqz7Fuo-dXewDfrvOrbRasE5vPBsP2fJZgnx2u6rJLBP9rE26nTLJkVEZe6oAWC_i23rsP6WqMuMGkSfvxj1AzcOR_nwGcGmDE9Dy-DAfBz5WmR3btRcJ-dHa/s320/ear+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When the Karnavedha assumed a religious garb, its performance became compulsory and its omission was regarded a sin. The defaulter was thought to be fallen from his status. Devala, a medieval Smritiwriter, says, "All the accumulated merits disappear at the sight of a brahmana, through whose ear-holes do not pass the rays of the Sun. No gift should be given to him in the Sraddha ceremonies. If one gives, he becomes an Asura or demon.</div>
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The Ceremonies</h3>
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The Karnavedha ceremony described in the Katyayana Sutra is very simple. On an auspicious day, the ceremony was performed in the first half of the day. the child was seated facing towards east and given some sweet-meats. Then the right ear was bored with the verse "May we hear auspicious things through ears etc., and the left ear with the verse, "Vaksyanti etc.," The ceremony closed with the feasting of the Brahmanas.<br />
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<h3>
Susruta on the Boring of Ears</h3>
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Susruta gives a very cautious procedure of the ceremony. He says that the ceremony should be performed in the sixth or seventh month, in the bright half and on an auspicious day. After the preliminaries the child should be put on the lap of the mother or the nurse. Then the child should be fondled and persuaded by means of toys. Now the surgeon should pull the ears with his left hand and bore them slowly at the natural holes which are visible in the sunlight. If the ears are tender they should be pierced with a needle, if stiff with a probe. After boring oil should be applied to the ears by means of a cotton thread or bougie.</div>
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<h3>
Later Phases</h3>
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The later writers on the Samsakra introduced more religious elements and social mirth in the ceremony. On the day of performance Kesava [Lord Visnu], Hara [Siva], Brahma, the sun, the moon, deities of quarters, Nasatyas, Sarasvati the Brahmanas and cows were worshipped. The Teacher of the family was decorated and offered a seat. Then the nurse, wearing white garment, brought the child well-adorned, with its painted with red powder. The child was persuaded and kept still. The surgeon pierced the ears in one stroke but very lightly. The right ear of the boy and the left of the left of the girl was bored first. In the end, presents were given to the Brahmans, astrologers and the surgeon. Ladies, friends, the Brahmans and relatives were paid respect and entertained.</div>
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<i>Excerpts from the Book on "HINDU SAMSKARAS" by Rajbali Pandey</i><br />
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<br />A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-45727077861400964422018-09-02T20:10:00.000+05:302018-09-02T20:50:44.247+05:30In Indian culture..Why do we celebrate Krishna Janmashtami?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h4>
In Indian culture..Why do we celebrate Krishna Janmashtami?</h4>
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Bhagwan Shri Krishna incarnated five thousand years ago, at the end of cosmic phase, known as Dwapar-yug.</div>
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Purpose of Incarnation</h3>
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In the Gita [4/7.8], Shri Krishna proclaims:</div>
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<i><b> "Yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati Bharat...</b></i></div>
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<i><b> ... Dharma sansthapanarthaya sambhavami yuge yuge."</b></i></div>
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<b> i.e., I incarnate whenever Dharma declines and evil predominates, to establish Dharma Dharma and vanquish evil.</b></div>
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In the Bhavishyottar Puran Shri Krishna himself extols the celebration of Janmashtami to Yudhishtir, the eldest of the five Pandavas.</div>
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He incarnated in Mathura (Uttar Pradesh) to vanquish evil elements who were harassing pious people. His second reason was to fulfill the pledge he gave to Vasudev and Devki. When they married, Kamsa heard a divine proclamation that the couple's eighth son would be his nemesis. To obviate this, Kamsa imprisoned the couple and killed the first seven sons born to Devki. When Shri Krishna was born, Vasudev placed him in a cradle. The prison's doors opened miraculously and he forded the river Yamuna with the divine child. Thus, Shri Krishna survived. </div>
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During childhood he eradicated evil elements such as Bakasur, Aghasur, Putna, Kaliyanag and Kamsa. Later he removed mighty evil kings from all over Bharat who were causing anarchy and inflicting needles misery on people. By this mission, he fulfilled Paramatma's prophecy to remove evil and established dharma and peace in the whole of Bharat and reunified it.</div>
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Sentiments</h4>
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The first important sentiment of Janmashtami is to observe dharma. Since humans are all imprisoned in <i>samsar, </i>Paramatma incarnates in this 'prison' with man, establishes <i>dharma</i> and redeems him from <i>maya. </i>Man can transend <i>maya </i>only if he seeks Paramatma's aid, as did Arjun during the battle of Mahabharat. As Bhagawan Ved Vyas proclaims:</div>
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<i>'Yato Krishnastato dharmaha, yato dharmastato jayaha."</i></div>
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<i> - </i>Mahabharat Critical edition 13/153/39, 6/62/34</div>
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i.e., Where there is Krishna, there is <i>dhama, </i>where there is <i>dharma</i>, there is victory. </div>
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Since Duryodhan, leader of the Kauravas, did not observe <i>dharma, </i>he did not have Krishna. No Krishna, no victory.<br />
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Sharanagati [Refuge]</h4>
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During the battle, Shri Krishna imparted divine knowledge to convince the relucatant Arjuna to fight. This divine knowledge is known as Bhagavad Gita. In the Bhagavad Gita 18/66 the following slok [18/66] as its essence:</div>
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<i> Sarva dharman parityajya maekam sharanam vraja,</i></div>
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<i> aham twa sarvapapebhyo mokshishyami ma shuchaha.</i></div>
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<i> i.e., </i>O Arjun! Forsake all your personal beliefs and surrender to me. Do not lament for I shall deliver you free from all sins.</div>
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Therefore, the true spirit of Janmashtami is for devotees to implicitly surrender at Paramatma's lotus - feet, while staunchly observing <i>dharma.</i><br />
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<h3>
Ideal Devotee</h3>
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Shri Krishna stipulates:<br />
<i>"Brahma bhutaha prasannatma na shochati na kankshati,</i><br />
<i> Samaha sarveshu bhuteshu madbhaktim labhate param." - Bhagavad Gita 18/54</i><br />
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i.e., One who becomes <i>brahma-rup</i> and offers devotion to Parabrahma, forever remains blissful and attains the highest glory of Paramatma. 'Brahma-rup' simply means to become an ideal devotee, like Arjun, who represents <i>Nar, </i>and to then worship Krishna - <i>Narayan. </i>Hence, the <i>murtis </i>of Nar-Narayan.<br />
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Similarly, Shri Krishna played the <i>Maha Ras </i>(divine stick dance) with the Gopis of Vrundavan because of their unalloyed devotion to him. Radha was the foremost among them. Therefore, devotees should develop <i>Gopi-bhav, </i>to become <i>Radha-rup </i>(like Radha) to worship Shri Krishna. Hence, the <i>murtis</i> of Radha-Krishna are consecrated in mandirs. This establishes the eternal principle of worshipping Paramatma, by becoming Radha-rup, like His ideal devotee; to become <i>Akshar-rup </i>to worship Purushottam. Hence to become <i>Akshar-rup</i> or <i>gunatit, </i>Shri Krishna has given two chapters in the Bhagavad Gita, <i>aksharbrahma Yoga [Chapter 8] and Purushottam Yoga [Chapter 15].</i><br />
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In addition to such surrenderance, how should an aspirant strive to attain the exalted state of the Gopis - Gopi-bhav - to please Paramatma? Shri Krishna himelf provides the answer in the Bhagavatam.<br />
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Interesting age-related figures about Shri Krishna.</h4>
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<li>Shri Krishna was only a child of about 12 when he played <i>Maha Ras</i> with the Gopis, prior to leaving for Mathura at the age of 13.</li>
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<li>He first met Pandavas prior to the battle, at the age of 83.</li>
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<li>He always did <i>pranams </i>to Yudhishthir [aged 87] and Bhim [aged 86] since they were older than him.</li>
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<li>When he attended Draupadi's <i>svayamvar,</i> he brought along with him, his son Samb and Pradyumna, and the latter's son Anirudh, from Dwarka.</li>
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<li>He was 125 years old at his demise [Bhagavatam 11/625].</li>
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Such longevity was common then. Even 2.5 millennia later, when the Greeks arrived around 300-200 BCE, a chronicler [Arian] noted "many Hindus aged 140 years olds and many more who are 100!"</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book Hindu Festivals written by Sadhu Mukundcharandas</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-72876748045007130012018-08-08T21:13:00.001+05:302018-08-08T21:13:17.377+05:30Durvasa: The Angry Sage <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h4>
Durvasa:</h4>
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Many have a stereotyped idea of a Maharshi, a great sage. But, there have always been radical types, and <i><b>Durvasa</b></i> heads the list. Despite his anger and curses, in the final analysis his anger turned into out to be beneficial to the world. Being an anti-hero is not easy, yet his name Durvasa, which means difficult to live, has come to remain in people's hearts, and he is remembered with fondness.</div>
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Durvasa and Duryodhana</h4>
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His well-known anger was once tactfully neutralized by the Lord. Durvasa, along with his disciples, was offered hospitality for a few days by Duryodhana. (Durvasa's disciples must have been like their guru). Pleased, Durvasa wanted to grant Duryodhana a boon. The latter requested the sage and his numerous disciples to visit the Pandavas in their exile after they had finished their meal. The intention was obvious. Durvasa and his disciples did so and were met by Yudhisthira, who welcomed the sage and his disciples. On being told they would have their meal there, Yudhisthira became pleased and requested them to finish their bath in the Ganga and then sit down for food.</div>
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Akshaya-patram</h4>
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Draupadi was in a quandary. She had received a vessel as gift from the sun god that would produce any amount of food during the day but would empty only after she had her meal, which she did after everyone else had finished. Yudhisthira was not aware that she had taken her meal from the akshaya-patra and it would not produce any more food for the day. Now if Durvasa and his disciples were dishonoured, the Pandavas would not only incur demerit but would invite his wrath. Draupadi prayed to Shri Krishna to extricate them from this terrible predicament. the Lord appeared and asked her to bring the akshaya-patra found a small bit of green sticking to its side, and ate it. As he felt satisfied with it, simultaneously and miraculously, Durvasa and his numerous disciples felt full.</div>
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Shri Krishna then asked Sahadeva, one of the Pandava brothers, to invite the sage and his entourage for their meal. On the bank of the river, Durvasa was dumbfounded. He wondered how Draupadi could have cooked so quickly for so many. What would Yudhisthira say when told they did not want to eat because they were already full? Knowing the Pandavas to be close to Shri Krishna and not wanting to invite further trouble, Durvasa and his disciples quietly fled the place.</div>
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Durvasa and Kunti </h4>
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If Durvasa got easily incensed, he was easily pleased too. The Pandavas were born with different divine elements because their mother Kunti, as a maiden, had served Durvasa during one of his peregrinations. the sage was so pleased he had given her five mantras so that she could use them to obtain divine children.</div>
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Birth of Durvasa</h4>
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Durvasa's anger was natural. Once Lord Shiva was angry during a war with the destructive Tripuras and shot an arrow. The arrow destroyed the enemies of the gods and afterwards was transformed into a child, who came and sat in Shiva's lap. This child was Durvasa. </div>
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Story of Durvasa's origin:</h4>
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The Indian mind is not satisfied with just one story about Durvasa's origin. The most popular one is that Shiva once quarreled with Brahma. when Shiva became angry self, all the gods and demons fled in fear. Parvati, Shiva's consort, was also terrified and said, 'Durvasam bhavati me'. It is difficult for me to live here. Shiva had to transfer is anger. The opportunity came as a result of granting a boon, in the form of a son, to <b>Anasuy</b>a, consort of the sage Atri. Thus, their third child was named as Durvasa and he embodied Shiva's anger.</div>
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When in his element, Durvasa visited Dvaraka and was a guest of Shri Krishna and his consort Rukmini. He regularly pressed demands which were similingly met with alacrity. He once asked the royalcouple to cook payasam, pudding, and went so far as to make Shri Krishna smear it on himself. The Lord did so except on his feet. He then yoked Shri Krishna and Rukmini to his chariot and even (O Lord!) goaded them with a whip. With a sudden change of heart he then blessed both of them and and left. Shri Krishna's body became invincible due to the payasam that he had smeared on himself; but his feet, which had been left out, were vulnerable. Later, at the end of his life, he died because of an arrow shot inadvertently at his feet when he was resting.</div>
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Making the Lord smear himself with food was not a new thing to Durvasa. He had done it to himself. In order to test a sage with frugal habits at Kurukshetra, Durvasa demanded food. Eating a part of it, he smeared his body with the rest. The starving Mudgala did not get agitated even when this went on for a week. Durvasa then blessed Mudgala for his fortitude and righteousness.</div>
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Durvasa once officiated as a priest in a royal Yajna, a Vedic sacrifice. But the officiating priests left before it was finished, because it was unsuually long and their eyes smarted from the smoke. The king, Shvetaki, then performed austerities in the Himalayas in order to find a solution to the problem of his uncompleted sacrifice. Shiva was pleased with the king's austerities and deputed Durvasa to finish the sacrifice, which took him twelve years.</div>
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It does not matter that the benevolent and kindly side of Maharshi Durvasa has not been highlighted in the Purnas, because sages are supposed to be kind and benevolent. What we get out of reading about him is that Durvasa managed to rise above his anger.</div>
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Excerpts from the Book titled Ancient Sages written by Swami Satyamayananda</div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-28984057494381179222018-02-18T13:17:00.000+05:302018-02-18T13:17:06.440+05:30SUPRABHATAM <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Suprabhatam: First hymn sung every morning in the Tirumala Temple</h4>
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'Suprabhatam'is the first and foremost pre-dawn seva performed in the temple of Lord Venkateswara. This ritual is performed at Sayana Mandapam inside sanctum sanctorum to wake-up the Lord from His celestial sleep, amidst the rhythmic chanting of vedic hymns. Every day in the early hours, acharyapurushas the hymns while on the other hand, a descendant of Tallapaka Annamacharya sings some songs penned by the great saint poet in praise of Lord Venkateswara at the first corridor of the sanctum at the same time. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> Suprabhatam is, perhaps, one of the most popular prayers in Hindu temples in India. It is also one of its kind and is identified with Lord Sri Venkateswara. It is the first hymn to be used sung every morning in tirumala temple.</span><br />
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In essence, it is an affectionate entreaty to the God to wake-up at dawn. It wishes the God an auspicious morning and that it may be good for the divine work that awaits Him. The opening hymn is addressed to Lord Sri Rama, as the son of Kaushalya. Lord Sri Rama, like Lord Sri Venkateswara, is an avatar Lord Vishnu. This hymn is often chanted at the residences of the devotees of Lord Sri Venkateswara at dawn or early in morning. Owing to the length of the prayer, its audio renditions are equally popular.</div>
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Sri Venkateswara Suprabhatham with Lyrics</h4>
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1. <br />kausalya supraja rama!<br />purva sandhya pravartate,<br />uttistha nara sardula!<br />kartavyam daivam ahnikam.<br />2.<br />uttisthottistha govinda!<br />uttistha garudadhvaja!<br />uttistha kamalakanta!<br />trailokyam mangalam kuru.<br />3<br />matas samasta jagatam madhukaitabhareh<br />vaksoviharini manohara divyamurte,<br />srisvamini sritajanapriya donasile<br />srivenkatesa dayite tava suprabhatam.<br />4.<br />tava suprabhatam aravinda locane<br />bhavatu prasannamukha candra mandale,<br />vidhi sankarendravanitabhir arcite<br />vrsasailanatha dayite dayanidhe.<br />5.<br />atryadi sapta rsayas samupasya sandhyam<br />akasa sindhu kamalani manoharani,<br />adaya padayugam arcayitum prapannah<br />sesadri sekhara vibho! tava suprabhatam.<br />6.<br />pancananabjabhava sanmukha vasavadyah<br />traivikramadi caritam vibudhahu stuvanti,<br />bhasapatih pathati vasara suddhim arat<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam<br />7<br />isat praphulla sarasiruha narikela<br />puga drumadi sumanohara palikanam,<br />avati mandam anilah saha divyagandhaih<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />8.<br />unmilya netra yugam uttamapanjarasthah<br />patravasista kadali phala payasani,<br />bhuktva salilam atha kelisukah pathanti<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />9.<br />tantri prakarsa madhura svanaya vipancya<br />gayaty ananta caritam tava narado'pi,<br />bhasasamagram asakrtkaracara ramyam<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />10.<br />bhrngavalli ca makaranda resanuviddha<br />jhankara gita ninadaih saha sevanaya,<br />nirayaty upanta sarasikamalodarebhyah<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />11.<br />yosaganena vara dadhni vimathyamane<br />ghosalayesu dadhi manthana tivra ghosah,<br />rosat kalim vadadhate kakubhas ca kumbhah<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />12.<br />padmesa mitra satapatra gatalivargah<br />hartum sriyam kuvalayasya nijanga laksmya,<br />bheri ninadam iva bibhrati tivra nadam<br />sesadri sekhara vibho tava suprabhatam.<br />13.<br />srimann abhista varadakhila loka bandho<br />sri srinivasa jagadeka dayaikasindho,<br />sri devata grha bhujantara divyamurte!<br />sri venkatacalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />14.<br />sri svami puskarinikaplava nirmalangah<br />sreyoi'rthino hara virinnnnnnnnnadanadyah,<br />dvare vasanti varavetra hatottamangah,<br />dvare vasanti varavetra hatottamangah,<br />sri venkatacalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />15. <br />sri sesasila garduacala venkatadri<br />narayanadri vrsabhadri vrsater anisam vadanti<br />sri venkatacalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />16.<br />sevaparah siva suresa krsanu dharma<br />rakso'mbunatha pavamana dhanadhinathah,<br />badhanjali pravilasan nija sirsa desah<br />sri venkatacalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />17.<br />dhatisu te vihagaraja mrgadhiraja<br />nagadhiraja gajaraja hayadhirajah,<br />svasvadhikara mahimadikam arthayante<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />18. <br />suryendu bhauma budha venkpati kavya sauri<br />svarbhanu ketu divisat parisat pradhanah,<br />tvaddasa dasa caramavadhi dasa dasah<br />sri venkatacalapate tavam suprabhatam.<br />19.<br />tvat padadhuli bharita sphuritottamangah<br />svargapavarga nrapeksa nijantarangah,<br />kalpagamakalanayakulatam labhante<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />20.<br />tvad gopuragra sikharani niriksamanah<br />svargapavarga padavim paramam srayantah,<br />martya manusya bhuvane matim asrayante<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />21.<br />sri bhumi nayaka dayadi gunamrtabdhe!<br />devadhideva jagadekasaranyamurte,<br />srimann ananta garduadibhir arcitanghre!<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />22.<br />sri padmanabha purusottama vasudeva<br />vaikunta madhava janardana cakrapane,<br />srivatsa cihna saranagata parijata<br />sri venkatatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />23.<br />kandarpa darpa hara sundara divya murte!<br />kanta kucamburuha kutmala loladrste,<br />kalyana nirmala gunakara divyakirte!<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />24.<br />minakrte kamatha kola nrsimha varnin<br />svamin parasvathatapodhana ramachandra,<br />sesamsarama yadunandana kalkirupa<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />25.<br />ela lavanga ghanasara sugandhi tirtham<br />divyam viyat sariti hema ghatesu purnam,<br />dhrtva'dya vaidika sikhamanayah prahrstah<br />tisthanti venkatapate tava suprabahatam.<br />26.<br />bhasvan udeti vikacani saroruhani<br />sampurayanti ninadaih kakubho vihangah,<br />sri vaisnavah satatam arthitamangalas te<br />dhamasrayanti tava venkata suprabhatham.<br />27.<br />brabmadayas suravaras samaharsayas te<br />santas sanadana mukhastv atha yogivaryah,<br />dhamantike tava hi mangala vastu hastah<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />28.<br />laksmi nivasa! niravadya gunaika sindho!<br />samsara sagara samuttaranaika seto!<br />vedanta vedya nijavaibhava bhaktabhogya!<br />sri venkatachalapate tava suprabhatam.<br />29.<br />itham vrsacalapater iha suprabhatam<br />ye manavah pratidinam pathitum pravrttah,<br />tesam prabhatasamaye smrtir anga bhajam<br />prajam parartha sulabham paramam prasute.</blockquote>
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Excerpts from the book on "Tirupati" by Kota Neelima.</div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-14067759840731333272017-03-31T16:59:00.002+05:302017-03-31T16:59:31.794+05:30RAMA AND KRISHNA - A comparison in symbology<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Vedas deal with Dharma in two categories, one for the path of Pravruti (action in mundane life) and the other for the path of Nivruti (redemption from the thralldom of Samsara). These are respectively symbolized by the lives of the two Avatars, Rama and Krishna. The paths of their lives appear to be diametrically opposite to each other; and there is an eloquent lesson in that. A comparative study of the main incidents in the lives of the two great incarnations is very revealing and extremely rewarding and interesting. There are so many incidents in their lives which are in striking contrast. </div>
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A few of them are enumerated here under: these are not exhaustive, but only illustrative. Those who search may find many more. It is said, "Live as Rama lived, and learn what Krishna taught."</div>
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PARENTS</h3>
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Rama was born of parents who had to issues for long, were pinning for that, and who had undergone a lot of penance to beget children, while Krishna was the eighth child of his parents who, for that reason and due to the circumstances in which they were placed, were not at all eager to get issues.</div>
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BIRTH</h3>
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Rama was born in broad day light, in a palace, as the eldest Krishna was born in the middle of the night in a prison, and was the youngest.</div>
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COMPLEXION</h3>
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Rama was very fair in complexion, while Krishna was dark.</div>
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<br />LIFE</h3>
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Rama enjoyed life in the palace as a prince till his twelfth year, while the life of Krishna till his twelfth year was full of dangers and fights for his survival, as Kamsa had employed so many emissaries and stratagems to do away with this child. </div>
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VICTIM</h3>
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The first victim of Rama was a woman (Tataka) while the first victim of Krishna in regular combat was a man (Kamsa).</div>
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Rama's life was Dharma-oriented (Ramo vigrahavan Dharma); while that of Krishna was Karma - oriented. Krishna even said "Sarva Dharmam Parityajaya".</div>
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WIFE</h3>
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Rama was a man of "Eka Patni Vrata" (devoted only to one woman all his life) while Krishna had "Bahu Bharyatwa", a population of wives, so to say, as the story goes.</div>
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BROTHER</h3>
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Lakshmana, the incarnation of Ananta, was a younger brother of Rama. The same Ananta in his subsequent incarnation as Bala Rama was the elder brother of Krishna.<br />
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SURYA'S SON</h3>
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Rama protected the son of Surya (Sugriva) and killed the son of Indra (Vali) while Krishna did just the opposite. He protected the son of Indra (Arjuna) and killed (caused to be killed) the son of Surya (Karna).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN0ESs4AZuaH4EVpjCmhmFL0AQ-WlVszVb9wybnfeCGcJYPU0zbQeje7rlGAiEuq4T3tUBOYeNkA23l4LktKJfFLEIddGhWAnq1V63zkMpu-wDDCFh0vV1unSPZ0LptP6awJqN_hj-v4Fi/s1600/Lord-Krishna-Defeting-Karna-in-Mahabharata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN0ESs4AZuaH4EVpjCmhmFL0AQ-WlVszVb9wybnfeCGcJYPU0zbQeje7rlGAiEuq4T3tUBOYeNkA23l4LktKJfFLEIddGhWAnq1V63zkMpu-wDDCFh0vV1unSPZ0LptP6awJqN_hj-v4Fi/s400/Lord-Krishna-Defeting-Karna-in-Mahabharata.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
POISON</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama killed Tataka with a poisoned arrow, that is, he emitted poison. Krishna absorbed poison and killed Putana.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
DELUSION</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama was deluded for a time (fainted) in his war with Ravana. Krishna brought back the deluded man, Arjuna, to his full faculties and made him fight to victory.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
WIFE</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama's wife was forcibly taken by Ravana. Krishna forcibly took away Rukmini and married her. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama was the cause for mutilating and deforming a woman, Soorp[anakha. Krishna made the deformed woman, Kubja, straight and beautiful.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
KING</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama was a king in his own right. Krishna was never a king himself, but was a King-maker.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
INCARNATION</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama never claimed that he was an incarnation. In fact, he had to be reminded of that at the last stage in his life. Krishna announced that he was the Lord Himself as soon as He was born.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
DYNASTY</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama belonged to the Solar dynasty. Krishna belonged to the Lunar dynasty - the Yadava Branch.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
PARAMATMA</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama represented the perfected Jivatman - <i>(Ramanate asmin Yoginaha iti Rama:)</i>, while Krishna was the Paramatman - the God <i>(Krishnaat Krishna)</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Ramayana" means the "goings of Rama". He was leading to the goal. It can also mean "going to Rama", just as "Samudrayan" in the case of the river. Whereas in the case of Krishna, he was the goal. He was always calling unto Himself: "Mamekam saranam vraja".</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
BATTLE</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4RDY5qV3FQCjdj-Rb90wmNKYn73g2D6z8GCSnF0q3CIxGt3yQMpT2edsYKt1jLotdZULmsLj3CMQ5vU9mMAMoEYdRJB6VeOtYR4Y7AU65BMZdChJQ8YELHA1cDkw68C-02dPPbNe61EB/s1600/ramayana-yuddha-kanda-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4RDY5qV3FQCjdj-Rb90wmNKYn73g2D6z8GCSnF0q3CIxGt3yQMpT2edsYKt1jLotdZULmsLj3CMQ5vU9mMAMoEYdRJB6VeOtYR4Y7AU65BMZdChJQ8YELHA1cDkw68C-02dPPbNe61EB/s320/ramayana-yuddha-kanda-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama fought the great battle himself: <i>(Jivatman fighting the battle of samsara)</i>. Krishna was the "Sakshi" in the great battle, While others fought.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
CITY</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama left behind a prosperous Ayodhya, while Krishna had his city (Dwarka) and his entire Yadava race destroyed before he left.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even the names of the cities in which they lived held out opposite meanings. "Ayodhya" means a city which is not vulnerable to any kind of wars, which should mean the mental state of the "sthithaprajna", while 'Dwarka', Krishna's city meant the "Door that opens into the Perfect State", one being the Means and the other the End.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
<br />WEEPING</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While Rama had to weep many a time in his life, Krishna lived throughout as a personification of cheerfulness. Krishna's eyes became moist only once in his whole life; that was when his childhood friend Sudama called on him.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
AVATAR</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyATtHK6MLfBCVys1YS5MXnDxYzsuRfmserWFvFzcj_boEqDabHx1B5LPgKhvpRdEHpi7_OIbEDTzM291cCh5aZ8ZkbKytnE6ei8WAI5N7z0mXczO4_fYmktcnwRmNm94NquXA_uaqiEa1/s1600/Lord+Krishna+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyATtHK6MLfBCVys1YS5MXnDxYzsuRfmserWFvFzcj_boEqDabHx1B5LPgKhvpRdEHpi7_OIbEDTzM291cCh5aZ8ZkbKytnE6ei8WAI5N7z0mXczO4_fYmktcnwRmNm94NquXA_uaqiEa1/s320/Lord+Krishna+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Krishna is accepted as the Poorna-avatara. Rama has not been accepted as such. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
WIFE</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieN2Te-yoz0jv3CgVNMjJX-VOiE3o1NZVglhx7y6sQ7fCIbFF-cU7FB2B-BI7qnBACQrSgAnxfNyHWIDUz1WccV09V9YzyBSecPq2eIAidXwsqg4gkOzxswhUI229rfP3SmjF2fB6uWjLv/s1600/Lord+Rama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieN2Te-yoz0jv3CgVNMjJX-VOiE3o1NZVglhx7y6sQ7fCIbFF-cU7FB2B-BI7qnBACQrSgAnxfNyHWIDUz1WccV09V9YzyBSecPq2eIAidXwsqg4gkOzxswhUI229rfP3SmjF2fB6uWjLv/s320/Lord+Rama.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even with only one wife, Rama could not lead a happy and harmonious life with her, while Krishna, with an army of wives, could lead the happiest of lives with no complaint from any of those women that she had been neglected even for one evening.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMT_n15oDpHQMDxQDD9VjajqchpLFnO-H7lgkx7TjPLu0iN4j2qsN89E7D0PEyfcvy7ngMV06hEjQjm4DSmtkx7NybyKQRPvbGVQdrnAWioQkzEn1GPHMc-52wiNOQguTBBHgTaB-0KRBY/s1600/Lord+Krishna+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMT_n15oDpHQMDxQDD9VjajqchpLFnO-H7lgkx7TjPLu0iN4j2qsN89E7D0PEyfcvy7ngMV06hEjQjm4DSmtkx7NybyKQRPvbGVQdrnAWioQkzEn1GPHMc-52wiNOQguTBBHgTaB-0KRBY/s320/Lord+Krishna+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
FOREST</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMO2SUBTl8rlNPw8Bt5iHYq0SA5Mfj8dl-uJPaMqIsXtBnjQsl1HbsrYlL0c_Tk6B6HtVvyKVhxLpfn5ervV7Bl7oqwVGYfWRH8HzWggW7TzEXDzlXiUjJ-pdTxJl_9Z03N1rFSCj09Cfh/s1600/Lord+Rama+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMO2SUBTl8rlNPw8Bt5iHYq0SA5Mfj8dl-uJPaMqIsXtBnjQsl1HbsrYlL0c_Tk6B6HtVvyKVhxLpfn5ervV7Bl7oqwVGYfWRH8HzWggW7TzEXDzlXiUjJ-pdTxJl_9Z03N1rFSCj09Cfh/s320/Lord+Rama+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While in the forest, Rama goes in search of the golden deer to satisfy his wife, meaning that he went in search of Kanchan to satisfy his Kamini. In the attempt he lost both the Kamini and the Kanchan. Krishna went into the forest in search of the jewel "Syamamantaka" and gets also two Kaminis in the bargain - namely Satyabhama and Jambavati, that is Krishna gains both Kamini and Kanchan at one shot.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
<br />BOW</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQsCYzyZAXnvlJEN-ElWkiMhsNsdgbuGO9ZovyfbCoyUlbV1cmMRWd0i4akYlolyR1EjGDxXJOFs2wpbPcixbOdSLJTkrwMTpM1z6VpFgrUy4bwgRkY5_Av0UdLtcdgSbG5yc_ULHAH3X/s1600/Lord-Rama-with-Bow-and-Arrow-HD-Pics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQsCYzyZAXnvlJEN-ElWkiMhsNsdgbuGO9ZovyfbCoyUlbV1cmMRWd0i4akYlolyR1EjGDxXJOFs2wpbPcixbOdSLJTkrwMTpM1z6VpFgrUy4bwgRkY5_Av0UdLtcdgSbG5yc_ULHAH3X/s320/Lord-Rama-with-Bow-and-Arrow-HD-Pics.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With the bow and the quiver always hanging on his shoulders, Rama had a warrior's life throughout, upholding and protecting Dharma. Krishna went with a flute in his hands enchanting the world around with his divine music. He too was protecting the righteous and upholding Dharma. While the former did it with his prowess, the latter did it with love.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WRAsp4F3uzJC3f2TA3jHPPUQUb50r4gdU96m9PV-DtpniM-hQkCZ4cBdcwGwjW1iOhSlufrgdl_wHiEVHu2vObepnKw-ic-SvshK49gaSMS9JsSq94vpShRq7KInOHxB9kWg296YxArg/s1600/Lord+Krishna+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WRAsp4F3uzJC3f2TA3jHPPUQUb50r4gdU96m9PV-DtpniM-hQkCZ4cBdcwGwjW1iOhSlufrgdl_wHiEVHu2vObepnKw-ic-SvshK49gaSMS9JsSq94vpShRq7KInOHxB9kWg296YxArg/s320/Lord+Krishna+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<br />ARMS</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama was ready to take-up arms whenever required. Krishna refused to take up arms even when everybody expected him to do so.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sita was lost, Rama wandered in search of her, weeping and enquiring of even inanimate objects whether they had seen her. On the other hand, it was Krishna who had been lost, and the Gopis in Brindavan did exactly the same thing as Rama did in Ramayana.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
<br />FOREST</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama had to go to the forest to fulfill the purpose of his incarnation, whereas for Krishna his mission took him to palaces frequently.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
ENEMIES</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpe8X_4COYB3G4ntmzIC59uTIPCo1bP_RyE5gqp9xyFrDBw8Mi0D04rcHEIVoCYA3XwsMu4sf-C6lsq_YzqWWigr3Ft2rn0SZZr8ADi2PqQIHwiwDnrSQixlu3jYbm-dHejOQJ4PAA6pX/s1600/RavanaLustsSita.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpe8X_4COYB3G4ntmzIC59uTIPCo1bP_RyE5gqp9xyFrDBw8Mi0D04rcHEIVoCYA3XwsMu4sf-C6lsq_YzqWWigr3Ft2rn0SZZr8ADi2PqQIHwiwDnrSQixlu3jYbm-dHejOQJ4PAA6pX/s320/RavanaLustsSita.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama was insulted by his enemy in so far as his wife was kidnapped by his enemy, while we see that Krishna was respected by his enemies (the Kauravas) when he entered their Durbar.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
SON</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IphC4JdMG0PD_Hh3VkdAZ8tNOoEXgsV1TwecVZVGAvwBtqIDQeyYLwcX2HHB3icqQNTKJj3rEMpGQuwjsKyAlHoPh6h8c_fvLx7NmRuq-ljbPEbGlAGzzZvpBxkvjlKkqlbYEz2HzObk/s1600/luv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IphC4JdMG0PD_Hh3VkdAZ8tNOoEXgsV1TwecVZVGAvwBtqIDQeyYLwcX2HHB3icqQNTKJj3rEMpGQuwjsKyAlHoPh6h8c_fvLx7NmRuq-ljbPEbGlAGzzZvpBxkvjlKkqlbYEz2HzObk/s320/luv.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ram's sons lived independently of him and were finally crowned by Rama himself before his departure. Krishna's sons and grandsons lived under his shadow throughout, but where annihilated by the grand sire himself before his departure.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
BAD NAME</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoKQkGRh2gsuj-CorRwLnbA4iECz0FpmVCN9xsLtGzl1WM5Pkn_ZiJXs67U3_h5lTOjxnB2hC6XFJKOmaeBXK9MYzgsWVWdFfxhDep4P6VtfFWHD6vCliySFSevJIZbWTf7jWWyHAVIOk/s1600/Krishna+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoKQkGRh2gsuj-CorRwLnbA4iECz0FpmVCN9xsLtGzl1WM5Pkn_ZiJXs67U3_h5lTOjxnB2hC6XFJKOmaeBXK9MYzgsWVWdFfxhDep4P6VtfFWHD6vCliySFSevJIZbWTf7jWWyHAVIOk/s320/Krishna+7.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rama got a bad name on account of Sita, for which he sent her to the forest when she was in an advanced state of pregnancy. Krishna got a bad name, not on account of a woman but a jewel called <i>Syamantaka</i>. He went to the forest in search of the jewel to vindicate himself and ultimately got the jewel and two women in the bargain.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
SURNAME</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj572O15fJSiXnEnZnDkhINBSDoAl-CEQJG4Jzm9aMz6zlgkBoMaS6P5EmziDcYQAV-loqrdtgVMV00fG-lsesX8IgMesDjKZJyqT5t88raXr5LtjqGVSu_Dbk3_RiRTZaqEEcMXOCU_rRK/s1600/Sita+Ram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj572O15fJSiXnEnZnDkhINBSDoAl-CEQJG4Jzm9aMz6zlgkBoMaS6P5EmziDcYQAV-loqrdtgVMV00fG-lsesX8IgMesDjKZJyqT5t88raXr5LtjqGVSu_Dbk3_RiRTZaqEEcMXOCU_rRK/s320/Sita+Ram.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Rama's name is chanted as <b>"Sitaram" </b>prefixed with that of Sita, his legally wedded wife, whereas, in the case of Krishna, we chant his name as <b>"Radha - Krshna"</b> prefixing his name not with any of his legally wedded wives, but with that of another man's wife, simply on the basis of devotion.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqiI9jxGNhgmk2h3-9wrBnKCNGE3Qy4l7qYgUAg-CSZvMkflt4k1jpk5M_F8pzk3he5UlsS0lapBZt0Pu7JtkoUG4wojKIfcdATtmSDOPHLpNSxdWngQ0RiHkf0nAxV6HdqyKencONzcS3/s1600/Radha-Krishna-Wallpaper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqiI9jxGNhgmk2h3-9wrBnKCNGE3Qy4l7qYgUAg-CSZvMkflt4k1jpk5M_F8pzk3he5UlsS0lapBZt0Pu7JtkoUG4wojKIfcdATtmSDOPHLpNSxdWngQ0RiHkf0nAxV6HdqyKencONzcS3/s320/Radha-Krishna-Wallpaper2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To crown all these, we find a very interesting fact when we compare the Ramayana and the Bhagavad Geeta - which is the essence of the Mahabharata. They appear to approach the subject from exactly opposite directions. In Ramayana, Valmiki narrates to Sage Narda all the qualities of a "Sthithaprajna" and asks him whether there is any person living who satisfies that description, for which Narada answers that Rama, the Scion of the Ikshawaku dynasty, is a standing example for that. But, when we come to the Bhgavad Geeta, Arjuna does just the opposite. He asks the Lord as to what qualities distinguish a "Sthithaprajna", and the Lord recounts those qualities. The purpose is the same, but the approaches are from diametrically opposite directions.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on SYMBOLISM IN HINDUISM published by Chinmaynanda Mission</i><br />
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-50838275632487425962017-02-01T17:25:00.001+05:302017-02-01T17:25:17.006+05:30The Ramayana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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THE RAMAYANA is a great epic of the Hindus. The epical narrative with its many stories, anecdotes and incidents explains how man has fallen from his supreme state of peace and bliss to his limited existence of sorrow and misery and how he regains his original glory.</div>
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As the story goes, King Dasaratha lied in Ayodhya with his his three queens Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi. They lived a life of peace and contentment.</div>
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Dasaratha means one who has controlled his tenses</h4>
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<b>Dasaratha</b> means a man <b>who has controlled his</b> <b>ten senses</b>. The <b>three wives</b> represent the <b>three mental qualities</b>, <b>the [1] <i>sattvika, [2] rajasika and [3] tamasika</i> gunas.</b> To a self-controlled man the three gunas are at his service. In a contrast a man who has no control over his senses is victimised by his own <i>gunas. </i><b>Lord Rama</b> was born into such a house of self-control, peace and contentment. <b>Sita</b> was married to Rama. Both Rama and Sita lived happily in Dasaratha's palace in Ayodhya. with all the royal comforts and amenities of the palace at her disposal. <b>Sita </b>was ever content and happy. </div>
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As days passed by, King Dasaratha decided to retire leaving his kingdom to his eldest son Rama to Rule. The coronation day was fixed. All the Ayodhya was reveling in ecstasy. Just on the eve of the coronation <b>Kaikeyi,</b> the step mother of Rama, demanded the two boons that Dasaratha had given to her. Firstly, that Rama be sent away at the jungle for fourteen years. Secondly, that her son, Bharata, be crowned king instead of Rama. Consequently, Rama left Ayodhya followed by Sita and Lakshmana. In the jungle Sita remained devoted to her Lord Rama. She continued to live with the sense of contentment and happiness which she enjoyed in the palace at Ayodhya.</div>
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Rama represent <i>Atman </i>& Sita represent individual, <i>jivatma</i></h3>
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The significance of this portion of the story is that man is very happy and contended as long as he is attuned to the inner Self. All the sorrows of man are caused by his preoccupation with the external world. <b>Rama</b> represents the <i><b>Atman</b></i>, the supreme Self and <i><b>Sita</b></i> the ego, the <b>individual</b>. </div>
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As long as <i>Sita's</i> attention was on Rama she was ever blissful be it in the luxuries of the palace or the exigencies of the jungle. Similarly, if man's attention and interest are upon the inner Self and not the enchantment of the world, he would remain ever peaceful and happy whether he is placed in a state of prosperity or penury.</div>
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GOLDEN DEER represent the fascinating sense objects</h3>
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One day Sita saw a beautiful golden deer in the jungle. She was enchanted. She desired to possess it. She pleaded with Rama to capture it for her. Lakshmana warned her that the beautiful deer was a <i>raksasa</i> demon in disguise. Sita turned a deaf ear. She insisted on having it. Rama yielded and went after the animal. The deer was in fact a <i>raksasa</i>. It led Rama far away from their hut. Rama shot it with his arrow. The deer fell and as it was dying it shouted the names of Lakshmana and Sita, as if to indicate that Rama was in trouble. Sita heard the cry and bade Lakshmana rush to the scene to help his brother. Lakshmana again warned that it was a trick being played on them by raksasa but Sita would not heed the words of Lakshmana. Lakshmana therefore had to leave her alone in the hut and go. As Lakshmana disappeared into the jungle a mendicant with a begging bowl appeared before Sita. That mendicant was <b>Ravana,</b> t<b>he ten-headed <i>raksasa</i></b> in disguise. Ravana carried Sita away to Lanka. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuaTNgyKVKXqcaNGHY7JpcG8iQHlaiRfUTndV51iAdBDlBMB5ougbh2Gw4S-f5qVWkgwBF7B-so7ScFQ4y278B_Jb-q_W159WTtfyNv59zZL-vxmd-gfyKpg3oDzZxhH2Qzz2V5rGplkn/s1600/Ravana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuaTNgyKVKXqcaNGHY7JpcG8iQHlaiRfUTndV51iAdBDlBMB5ougbh2Gw4S-f5qVWkgwBF7B-so7ScFQ4y278B_Jb-q_W159WTtfyNv59zZL-vxmd-gfyKpg3oDzZxhH2Qzz2V5rGplkn/s400/Ravana.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravana, the ten headed raksasa.</td></tr>
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<b>The meaning of this portion is simple.</b> Man is contented and happy as long as his attention and concentration are upon his real Self. The moment he looks out extrovertedly at the sense-objects of the world he develops a desire. The <b>golden deer represent the fascinating sense-objects</b> like colour and form for the eyes, sound for the ears, taste for the tongue and smell for the nose and touch for the skin. The joys derived from the sense objects are transient, fleeting. They swiftly pass away like the deer. And yet man falls a prey to their golden enchantment and becomes a slave to his own sense organs -- the five organs of perception and the five organs of action. He becomes a captive of the ten-headed Ravana as it were.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIT_65_ZJ8ZQHuCQh5VL2ijEoO5e5rnNo5H7jHSpGOUTkS9SueQzDiHMVzJNfj2-D0uYLw4ezGvF2_WXNQG6ndMfGabwbcZNhxph8jUvOQokkloDQU81FbQmK-TSFXSHV5My1XgzIOk5EO/s1600/Sita_at_ashokavana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIT_65_ZJ8ZQHuCQh5VL2ijEoO5e5rnNo5H7jHSpGOUTkS9SueQzDiHMVzJNfj2-D0uYLw4ezGvF2_WXNQG6ndMfGabwbcZNhxph8jUvOQokkloDQU81FbQmK-TSFXSHV5My1XgzIOk5EO/s400/Sita_at_ashokavana.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravana is meeting Sita at Ashokavana.<br />
Hanuman is seen at the top of the tree.</td></tr>
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In Lanka, Sita refused to enter the golden palace of Ravana. She chose to stay in the garden of <i>Asoka </i>trees called the <i>Asokavana.</i> There she remained, away from Ravana. Sita was tempted with gifts. She was harassed with threat but she would not deviate from her unswerving devotion for her Lord Rama. </div>
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HANUMAN represent faith and strength in spiritual person </h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rama hugging Hanuman</td></tr>
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As days passed by, her devotion and dedication to Rama were rewarded by the appearance of Hanuman, the messenger of Rama. <b>Hanuman </b>gave Sita a ring as the token from Rama. Sita was overjoyed and thereafter gained supreme confidence in her reunion with Rama. With the renewed faith and confidence she continued to contemplate upon her Lord until Rama came and liberated her.</div>
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This part of the Ramayana symbolises the ways and means of liberation for mankind from his abject slavery to his sense organs, to his sovereign state of Godhood. Sita's refusal to enter Ravana's golden palace and her choice to remain in the <i><b>Asokavana</b></i> <b>signifies the first step that man has to take to rise from his fallen state.</b> Having fallen a prey to the enchantment of the senses, man ought not to indulge indiscriminately in sense gratification. <b>He must first withdraw himself from such indulgence and perform tapas austerity as Sita did.</b> <i>Tapas</i> is an intelligent conservation and utilisation of energies towards higher pursuits inlife i.e., conserving energies which are dissipated in sensual indulgences and directing such conserved energy to the goal of Self-realisation. When a man practices this he gains a relative peace and contentment whcih is symbolised by Sita remainign in the <i><b>Asokavana.</b></i> </div>
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<i><b> Soka</b></i> in Sanskrit means <b>grief</b>, <i><b>askoka </b></i>means<b> non-grief.</b> With his consistent efforts towards self-control and contemplation upon the higher truth, he gains faith and confidence in is spiritual pursuits. This is symbolised by Rama's ring that Hanuman gives to Sita, which gives her the assurance of Rama's arrival. <b>Hanuman represent that strength and faith born in a spiritual man</b>.</div>
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LANKA represent material splendour</h3>
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After his meeting with Sita, <b>Hanuman set fire to the whole of Lanka.</b> He left behind a blazing red city to warn Ravana of the might and glory of Rama. <b> Lanka</b> represents <b>material splendour</b>. <b>The burning of Lanka indicates that material splendour has no value to one who is spiritually evolved.</b> As man advances spiritually the sense -objects of the world no longer allure him. They lose their power of enchantment. They are burnt as it were. </div>
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Three brothers -- Vibhisana, Ravana and Kumbhakarna</h3>
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<b><i>Vibhisana</i></b>, the younger brother of Ravana, pleaded with Ravana to give up his vicious deeds and return Sita to Rama. Ravana was far too proud and lustful to heed his brother's advice. The <b>three brothers -- Vibhisana, Ravana and Kumbhakarna </b>-- in fact represent respectively the<i> <b>three gunas</b>,</i> the mental qualities of human beings, [1] <i>sattvic, [2] rajasic and [3] tamas. </i> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravana</td></tr>
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Vibhisana - <i>sattvic</i>, Ravana - <i>rajasic</i> & Kumbhakarna -<i> tamasic</i></h3>
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<i> <b>Sattva</b> </i>is the pure and noble quality of the mind. <i><b>Rajas</b></i> is passion and agitation. <i><b>Tamas </b></i>is dullness and inertia. Vibhishana was ever-poised and pure in nature. Ravana was always riddled with passionate desires and agitations. <b>Kumbhakarna </b>was known for his <b>inertia</b>. He would sleep for months together at a stretch. <b>Vibhisana's</b> appeal to Ravana represent the <i><b>sattvika nature</b></i> in man directing his passionate nature to the right channels. But rarely indeed does man heed the inner appeal of his <i>sattvika</i> nature. Ravana thus rejected Vibhishna's advice and prepared himself and his army for facing Rama in battle. Consequently Vibhisana left Lanka and surrendered to Rama.</div>
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On the other side, Rama and Lakshmana with the help of <b>Sugriva</b> and his monkeys forces prepared themselves to cross the ocean to conquer <b>Ravana </b>and release Sita from her captivity. The <b>metaphysical explanation of these events is based on the fundamental relationship between a monkey and a thought. </b></div>
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Monkey forces represent human mind</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Building Rama Sethu Bridge to Lanka</td></tr>
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A <b>'monkey' and 'thought' </b>are identical in some respects. The <b>monkey forces represent the human mind. </b> A monkey, like human thought, has two distinct qualities referred to as <i><b>asthira </b></i>and <i><b>cancala.</b></i> Both these terms means <b>unstable</b>. </div>
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<b><i>asthira - not being firm & cancala - it cannot remain in one place</i></b></div>
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<b><i> Sthira</i></b> means being <b>firm at one place</b>. <i><b>Asthira</b></i> is <b>not being firm</b> i.e., moving from one place to another. <b><i>Cancala</i></b> being <b>firm</b> i.e., movement of the body while it is stationery in one place. A monkey is <i><b>asthira</b></i> <b>in the sense that it cannot remain in one place.</b> It keeps jumping about all the time. That is the nature of the monkey. Even if it is tied up in one place a monkey keeps fidgeting all the time indicating its <i><b>cancala</b></i> nature. <b>The human mind has these two qualities as well. </b> It keeps on jumping from one thought to another thought. When it is given a fixed point of contemplation even then it slips into other thoughts.</div>
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Valli and Sugriva</h3>
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These monkeys were under the suzerainty of <i><b>Valli</b></i> (the lust king) who usurped the kingdom of his brother <i><b>Sugriva</b></i> (the virtuous king). Rama destroyed <i><b>Valli</b></i> and made <i><b>Sugriva </b></i>the king of the monkey forces. This is the first step that Rama had to take to win back Sita, to destroy evil and substitute virtue in its place. T<b>he mind at present is under the governance of lust and greed.</b> In order to gain one's spiritual nature, <b>the initial step to be taken is to divert the mind from lust and greed to self control and sacrifice</b>. A mind so prepared must surrender itself to the Supreme and put forth all its efforts to attain liberation. When man makes a concerted effort with consistency of purpose, help is showered from all sides. The occasion of delusion, the sea of likes and dislikes is crossed over. The ego with ten sense organs (Rama) is destroyed. The individual regains his lost Self. <i><b> Sita </b></i>unites once again with Rama.</div>
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Sita going through fire </h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire Test for Sita</td></tr>
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The battle was won and <i><b>Sita</b></i> was brought before Rama. She passed through the test of purity by literally going through fire. She emerged unscathed. Rama accepted her whole-heartedly. After the union, Rama and Sita ruled over <i>Ayodhya</i>. It was a glorious reign - <i>Ramarajya. </i> </div>
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<b> This last portion signifies that an individual must be cleansed of all his vasanas, desires before the dawn of Realisation. When this is accomplished man gains the ultimate realisation of the Self. He lives a life of absolute peace and bliss.</b></div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "Symbolism of Hindu Gods and Rituals" wirtten by Swamiji Parthasarathy</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-69620124066962662682017-01-05T18:01:00.000+05:302017-01-05T18:01:16.605+05:30In Indian Culture..Why do we worship Lord SASTHA (HARIHAR)?<br />
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On the peak of Sabari Hill at the southern tip of the Sahyadri ranges stretching southward into Kerala, there is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, who is popularly known as <b>Sabari Mala Sastha.</b> This temple can be reached only by foot through the jungles which is infested with wild animals.</div>
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In Hinduism, the transcendental message of the Vedas has been conveyed to man through the technique of Mysticism. This technique is employed in all religions, but in the Hindu scriptures it has been developed to artistic perfection. <b>Saastha</b> is one of the Hindu deities which has a deep mystic significance.</div>
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Lord Ayyappan is the son of Lord Siva and Mohini <i>(Lord Vishnu)</i> in a delusory enchanting form. Ayyappan stands for constructive destruction which is combination of Vishnu (construction) and Siva (destruction). He is considered the 'Protector' of the weak. He saves mankind from sickness, diseases and miseries of the world and endows them with <i>Gnana</i> [knowledge] leading to spiritual liberation.</div>
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The Vishnu Purana describes that in heaven the gods and the demons - the <i>devas</i> and the <i>asuras</i> - decided to sink their differences temporarily, to come to a mutual understanding for a joint endeavour to churn and draw the nectar<i> (amrutam)</i> from the milky ocean, on which Lord Vishnu is described as ever reclining in <i>yoga nidra(yogic sleep)</i>. The gods and the demons stood on either side, used the Manthara mountain as the churn, and Vasuki, the mighty serpent, served them as the rope. The great churning of the milky ocean started.</div>
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Neelakanda</h3>
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The churning first produced a deadly poison called <b>Halahala.</b> Seeing this poison spreading in all quarters, the living beings flew for protection to Lord Siva. Siva, in His divine compassion for them, received the poison in His palm and not knowing what to do with it, decided to drink it Himself. When He swallowed thus the poison to save the universe from disaster, Mother Divine, the consort of the Lord, strangled the neck to prevent the poison from going down the neck. The poison spread over the neck region and hence it is that Siva's neck is blue in colour. He is called <b>Neelakanta </b>(Blue-necked). The churning continued after the removal of the poison and several beautiful and powerful things issued forth from the ocean. They were all given away and the gods and the demons pursued in their churning until the last of the products - the nectar<i> (amruta) </i>- emerged. As soon as the nectar appeared, the demons snatched it from the gods and ran away with it.</div>
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Mohini</h3>
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The gods prayed to Lord Vishnu to retrieve their loss. The Lord answered their prayers and agreed to bring back the nectar <i>(amruta) </i>to them. Meanwhile, the demons quarreled among themselves as they could not agree upon who should distribute the nectar and how much each should get. In such a state of confusion, Lord Vishnu appeared in the enchanting form of a maiden named Mohini. Fascinated by the seducing beauty of <i>Mohini</i>, the asuras (demons) stopped their quarrel and stood passionately gazing at her divine beauty. Having attracted them thus, <i>Mohini </i>offered to distribute the nectar justly. The demons accepted her suggestion and sat down to receive their share. Before the actual distribution started, however, she objected to their lustful looks, which were offending her modesty, and laid down a condition that they should keep their eyes closed until the distribution was over. Whoever opened his eyes would lose his share. Obediently, they all shut their eyes and waited for their share. While they were thus sitting and waiting with their eyes shut, the maiden ran away with the pot of nectar<i> (amruta-kalasa).</i> The demons learnt it too late that the maiden and the nectar had disappeared.</div>
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Saastha</h3>
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Upon the request of Lord Siva this episode was narrated by Lord Vishnu. Siva wished to see that enchanting form of Mohini who tricked the demons. He was warned that the Maya form was too irresistible. Siva insisted, being proud of His continuous tapas (austerity) in Kailas. But lust is the last weakness to leave one's bosom. Vishnu conceded to the request and once again took the maidenly form - the Mohini, one who deludes all. Parameswara was charmed by that divine maiden, and a child was born of the contact of Siva and Vishnu, Saastha was that child. </div>
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Mystic significance</h3>
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This simple story has a deep mystic significance. It is an objective representation of a subjective phenomenon. It explains the spiritual path leading to the Goal of perfection; the state of Immortality symbolised by the gaining of <i>amrutam</i>. <i><b>Amrutam </b></i>means deathlessness or immortality.</div>
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Symbolism</h3>
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The milky ocean represents the Pure <i>(sattwic)</i> mind. The gods <i>(devas)</i> stand for the higher nature/tendencies and the demons (asuras) for the lower nature/tendencies in man. The individual (ego) who desires to spiritually evolve and obtain Immortality <i>(amruta</i>) must first cleanse his mind of its impurities and maintain it in a relatively pure <i>sattwic</i> state (milky ocean). Such a mind is churned by the process of Assertion and Negation. The seeker asserts that he is the divine Self and negates the perceiver feeler thinker and the material equipments as 'not-self'. The whole process of such subtle discrimination and analysis between the good and the bad, the Spirit and the matter, the Real and the unreal is accomplished by the great churn, the subtle-intellect (Manthara).</div>
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As a result of such discriminative analysis and contemplation, man evolves spiritually. The evolution is first marked by the purging of low passionate animalistic tendencies <i>(vasanas)</i>, which are symbolised by the issuing of the poison from the ocean. These <i>vasanas</i> are detrimental to the well-being of mankind. They pollute the head (discrimination) and the heart (feelings). Hence, the consort of <i>Siva, Parvati</i> (representing <i>sattwic</i> mind) - arrested the poison in the throat of the Lord, i.e. kept it in between the head and the heart, not allowing it to poison either the feeling of the heart or the clear thinking of the intellect.</div>
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As one evolves further in the spiritual path, one develops higher faculties and powers, <i>siddhis</i>, including the capacity to perform miracles. These are represented by the attractive gifts that arose out of the churning. The gifts were however not meant for self-aggrandisement but for distribution to others. Similarly, if the powers obtaining by spiritual <i>sadhana</i> (practice) are not dissipated in selfish and ego-centric pursuits, and the seeker continues in his spiritual path, he gains the final reward of Immortality <i>(amrutam)</i> - the state of God Realisation.<br />
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The bad tendencies in man trade even on the spiritual treasure gained by him. In other words, they make use of his newly-gained spiritual distinction for self aggrandisement and low purposes. Such men are easily tempted by the enchanting sense-objects <b>(Mohini). 'Moha' </b>means <b>delusion.</b> <b>Mohini, therefore, is 'delusion personified'.</b> Those who have low animal impulses and passions are deluded by the enchantment of the sensual world and they are blind to their own spiritual beauty. When they are thus led away by the senses, whatever spiritual unfoldment they have gained is lost. this idea is indicated in the demons <i>(asuras)</i> losing the nectar <i>(amrutam)</i>. </div>
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Lord Ayyappan is the son of Siva and Vishnu. Siva is the God of Destruction while Vishnu is the God of Sustenance. These two powers are combined in Ayyappan, since <b>he helps</b> <b>to destroy all low negative tendencies and maintains the pure sattwic nature in the seeker</b>. The Lord is considered the God of Constructive-Destructivion-the 'Protector'. He protects our spiritual wealth and powers by maintaining the thought of godliness and destroys all other thoughts pertaining to the worldy infatuations.</div>
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Hari Hara Sutha</h3>
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This power of maintaining a single thought of the great Reality is invoked from Lord Harihara Sutha, as He is also known, meaning the son of Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Siva). Without that great powers no meditation is is possible. Hence all vedantins invoke His grace for maintaining a consistency in their meditation.</div>
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Ayyappa temple on Sabari Hill</h3>
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The Ayyappa temple on Sabari Hill, in Kerala, is one of the most popular pilgrim centres in South India. Devotee from all over the country, belonging to all creeds and classes visit this sacred shrine . Unlike other temples, the pilgrims visiting this temple have very strict and rigorous preparations to go through before reaching the divine altar. The usual custom is to observe strict austerities and self control for forty-one days preceding the visit to the temple. By such tapas (austerities) the mind is made to withdraw from the enchantments of the worldly objects and possessions and it is slowly directed to the thought of the Reality: <b>Ayyappa Swami Saranam,</b> <br />
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During this period of tapas, the devotee is allowed to wear only black or saffron clothes and a mala and he has strictly to perform the daily rituals. The special clothes indicate that he is dead to the world of peceptions, emotions and thoughts. m He remains in constant prayer immersed in the thought of Ayyappan, the Self in him.<b> 'Swami Saranam' </b>is his watchword:<b> "the Lord alone is my protection, my safety". </b></div>
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The way to the temple is through jungle and the pilgrimage is undertaken by foot. The idea is to further develop the concentration of the mind, which has been already prepared by strict austerities. All along the ascent to the shrine, the devotee tries to maintain the one thought of the Lord in his multiple experiences. When such single pointed concentration and meditation is maintained, the Truth reveals itself to the seeker, which is symbolised by the darshan (vision) of the Lord in the temple. The eighteen steps which lead the pilgrim to the plateau where the Lord is 'seen' have their endless mystic meaning in the number eighteen.<br />
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "The Symbolism of Hindu Gods and Rituals</i><br />
<i>by Swamy A Parthasarathy.</i><br />
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-67660115217917777222016-11-26T17:18:00.001+05:302016-11-26T17:18:44.770+05:30Arjuna, who has temporarily castrated for showing restraint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Curse by Urvashi</h3>
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When she was bored, Urvashi would leave Indra's realm and come to the realm of men to pleasure herself. One of the men who fell in love with her was Pururava of the Kuru clan. When she left him, as <i>apsara</i> often do when bored of earthly life, he went mad.</div>
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Hundreds of years later, Urvashi saw a handsome young man in Amaravati. He reminded her of Pururava and so, dressed in finery, she approached him with the desire to make love.</div>
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But the young man turned away from her. This had never happened before. A furious Urvashi asked for an explanation and the man said, 'I am Arjuna, the Pandava, descendant of Pururava. As you were his wife, you are like a mother to me. I cannot be your lover. Besides, you are the beloved of Indra, my father. This would be incest.'</div>
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'I am <i>apsara,' </i>said Urvashi, 'I belong to no one. I can go to whoever I please. The morality of mortals does not apply to me. Come, let us make love.'</div>
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Arjuna refused because mortal rules still applied to him. Peeved by his intransigence, Urvashi hissed out a curse, 'Only a eunuch refuses a willing woman. So be one,' and walked away in a huff.'</div>
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When Indra heard of the curse, he told his son, 'Curses cannot be revoked, but they can be modified. You will lose your manhood, as Urvashi wills it, but only for a year of your choice.' So it came to pass; Arjuna was obliged to spend one year of his life without his manhood.</div>
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This worked well for Arjuna for he and his brothers had been exiled from their kingdom of Indraprastha. They had gambled it away and could reclaim it only after spending twelve years in the forest and the thirteenth year incognito. There was also a clause that should their true identities be discovered during the final year of the exile, they would return to the forest for another twelve years. Arjuna realised that he could live out his curse as a eunuch in the final year of exile.</div>
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Brihanalla at Virat's Kingdom</h3>
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After enduring the harsh wilderness stoically for twelve years, the five Pandavas hid their weapons, disguised themselves as servants and sought refuge in the court of King Virata. Arjuna disguised himself as a eunuch-transvestite, introduced himself as Brihanalla or Brihananda, the dance-teacher, and gained employment in the royal women's quarters where he taught dance to the princes, Uttara.</div>
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As the year drew to a close, the Kauravas - whose spies had informed them of the Pandavas' whereabouts - invaded Virata's kingdom to smoke out their cousins, while the king and his soldiers were away chasing cattle-thieves. Petrified, the women turned to Virata's young son Uttar who boasted he would drive the invaders away single-handed.</div>
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As there were no charioteers around, Brihanalla offered to take up the reins of the war-chariot. This caused great mirth until the prince realised he had no other option.</div>
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As Charioteer to Prince Uttara Kumara</h3>
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As the two rode towards enemy lines, Uttar caught sight of the formidable formations of the invading army - the shining spears, the array of trumpeting elephants - and panicked. He leapt out of the chariot and ran towards the city. Brihanalla ran after him, caught him by the scruff of his neck and dragged him back. Those who witnessed this scene roared in laughter. Unable to bear his public humiliation, Uttar decided to end his life but was stopped by Brihanalla who said he could drive the enemy away provided Uttar served as his charioteer. The prince did not like the idea of serving eunuch until Brihanalla, after much difficulty, convinced him to have faith.</div>
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Brihanalla then took the prince to the forest, collected a massive bow from a secret place, strung it and ordered Uttar to take the chariot straight towards the enemy. There, to Uttar's astonishment, the effeminate eunuch - now transformed into a fierce warrior - shot lethal arrows and in no time drove the invaders away.</div>
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When the duo returned to the city, Brihanalla resumed his position as charioteer and the palace woman - who had not witnessed the scenes in the battlefield - hailed the prince as their saviour.</div>
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The king was very proud of his son. When his courtier, Kanka, who was Yudhishtira in disguise tried to clarify matters and explain what really could have happened, the king got so angry that he slaped Kanka. Everyone wanted to believe that the inexperienced young prince had defeated the mighty Kauravas. It seemed more plausible than the idea that a eunuch-dancer could wield the bow.</div>
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Taking Uttara as Daughter-in-Law</h3>
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When Brihanalla's true identity was revealed, King Virata was so overcome with gratitude that he offered Arjuna the hand of the princes Uttara in marriage. Arjuna politely refused since in his role as dance-teacher he looked upon Uttara as his daughter. Instead, the princes was given in marriage to Arjuna's son Abhimanyu.</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "Shikandhi and other tales that they don't tell you" by Devdutt Pattnaik</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-71903596106252848502016-10-09T19:51:00.000+05:302016-10-09T19:51:43.768+05:30Likhita Japa - The Science of Repetitive Mantra Writing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Write down daily in a note book your Ishta Mantra or Guru-Mantra, for half an hour. When you write the Mantra, observe Mouna. Write the mantra clearly in ink. On Sundays and holidays, write this for one hour. In a common place collect your friends also and let them write the Mantras. This is Likhita Japa. You can develop a wonderful power of concentration. Prescribe this to all of your family-members. Incalculable spiritual benefits are derived from Likhita Japa (Mantra-writing).</div>
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Of the various methods of Japa described in the scriptures, viz., Vaikhari, Upamsu and Manasika, etc., Likhita Japa is very efficacious. It helps the Sadhaka in concentration of the mind and gradually leads to meditation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2pPUiM-MUEUnTPMzhZ81dCGGlosWjbPYc4UtpUAeu-Rlu3xSJwI5whTqp5KSwE3E8RWYz5NbI3AnVImcgktEqwV1Ost2moVeNYPF1NW29i8qV7scQ9npK4AhLsI6a7c3IYKtrBG39LSp/s1600/om-mantra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2pPUiM-MUEUnTPMzhZ81dCGGlosWjbPYc4UtpUAeu-Rlu3xSJwI5whTqp5KSwE3E8RWYz5NbI3AnVImcgktEqwV1Ost2moVeNYPF1NW29i8qV7scQ9npK4AhLsI6a7c3IYKtrBG39LSp/s400/om-mantra.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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An aspirant should select the Mantra of his tutelary deity or Ishta, according to his liking or inclination. Repetition of the same Mantra with meaning and Bhava should be practised both orally and in writing. For oral Japa, the help of a Maala or rosary is required. For Likhita Japa a note book and a pen should be used. In Mantra-writing there is no restriction about any particular script. It may be written in any language. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VJB2mWtd9U6ZHwjMJ_DODwn8U6OD8j2pmZxmUtTngXqEVDjyojKaOam-4KOmjll8xkp2f9KU5LmEF7Q_IcBqbGoV6PDmiKzriKy5HN54nz2RcO-V4rHxQc91YlQBgJ6dSNA0iwCuGkMs/s1600/lik.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VJB2mWtd9U6ZHwjMJ_DODwn8U6OD8j2pmZxmUtTngXqEVDjyojKaOam-4KOmjll8xkp2f9KU5LmEF7Q_IcBqbGoV6PDmiKzriKy5HN54nz2RcO-V4rHxQc91YlQBgJ6dSNA0iwCuGkMs/s400/lik.png" width="266" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Rules observed</h3>
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The following rules may be observed while practicing Mantra-writing: - </div>
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1. Regularly and punctuality of time should be observed. This would itself bring the requisite help and be of the utmost benefit to the Sadhaka.</div>
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2. Physical and mental purity should be observed. Before sitting for Mantra-writing, the face, hands and feet should be washed. Effort should be made to keep the mind pure during Mantra-writing. Drive out all worldly thoughts while writing Mantra.</div>
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3. Continue to sit in one pose as long as possible. Frequent change of a pose or Asana should be avoided. Sitting in one Asana would increase your power of endurance and also considerable energy will be preserved.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpJ73C_dWrbJqpECLYeYztwPFuKO6hpllnRB5E7fL9TbOiVxNi56_0o8hZKfHRsFzfLSs6T1AWuyBK0bDV7ZJKtZYMG1bSRFrdnENLTFczLKNqbPq30kJTgDapmf24ApX-mCeyjISYU-s/s1600/woman-meditating-on-mountain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpJ73C_dWrbJqpECLYeYztwPFuKO6hpllnRB5E7fL9TbOiVxNi56_0o8hZKfHRsFzfLSs6T1AWuyBK0bDV7ZJKtZYMG1bSRFrdnENLTFczLKNqbPq30kJTgDapmf24ApX-mCeyjISYU-s/s400/woman-meditating-on-mountain.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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4. Observe silence during the practice. Too much of speaking results in wastage of energy and wastage of time. Silence helps in an increased turnout of work.</div>
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5. Avoid looking hither and thither. Fix your eyes on the notebook. This would help concentration of mind during the practice.</div>
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6. Repeat the Mantra mentally also while writing it in the notebook. This will make a threefold impression in your mind. Gradually your whole being will be involved and engrossed in the Mantra.</div>
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7. Fix a particular number of Mantras for one sitting. This will keep your practice intact and you will never get out of touch with the Mantra.</div>
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8. When you have once started the practice, do not leave it till you have finished the daily quota of one sitting. Do not allow your mind to be diverted to other engagements, as this would be an obstruction in the Sadhana. Have at least half an hour's writing at one sitting.</div>
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9. To help concentration, one uniform system of writing from top to bottom or from left to right, may be maintained during a particular sitting. The whole Manta should be written at once in continuity. Do not break the Mantra in the middle when you come to the end of a line.</div>
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10. When a Mantra is selected by you, try to stick to it tenaciously. Frequent change of Mantra is not advisable.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokp0l0OWrS6Xlzdx7XLc61GFy2_SOK4nElewGNeCNPFxOXM5f3sqDqJICbZ7L1t34id-WzCANy2ELFs5i9iRGCkyY-s8TDWVSdXPf5N2x8nLO_E1d63ZADk-9drsjbCR0C4EsDXRt-T5w/s1600/likhita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokp0l0OWrS6Xlzdx7XLc61GFy2_SOK4nElewGNeCNPFxOXM5f3sqDqJICbZ7L1t34id-WzCANy2ELFs5i9iRGCkyY-s8TDWVSdXPf5N2x8nLO_E1d63ZADk-9drsjbCR0C4EsDXRt-T5w/s400/likhita.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The above rules if strictly observed, will help you much in your quick evolution. You will develop concentration wonderfully. By prolonged and constant practice the inherent power of the Mantra (Mantra - Sakthi) will be awakened, which will fill your very existence with the Divinity of the Mantra.</div>
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The notebook should be well kept and treated with respect and purity. When completed, it should be stocked in a book and kept in your meditation room in front of the Lord's picture. The very presence of these Mantra-notebooks will create favourable vibrations requisite for your Sadhana.</div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
BENEFITS</h3>
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The benefits of Mantra-writing or Likhita Japa cannot be adequately described. Besides bringing about purity of heart and concentration of mind, Mantra-writing gives you control of Asana, control of Indriyas, particularly the sight and the tongue, and fills you with the power of endurance. You attain peace of mind quickly. You approach nearer to God through Mantra-Sakthi. These benefits can be expreienced only through regular and incessant practice of Likhita Japa. Those who are not conversant with this Yoga should start the practice immeidately and even if they take to this practice for half an hour daily, they will relelise its benefits within six months.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAtI9v1zyDKBrLO8tsFG4G3NLxMj7aSmBPBU9GVSks9xzCrlXENBngVHTQhZJ9IZlUb_KIS6NEYNqiZJg8_hbTrfM9Vf4pXqr8elbcvSk-_HKQCv3U0yfl0-Gz8jINR2CQYr33GKOHYhk/s1600/swami-sivananda-japa-yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAtI9v1zyDKBrLO8tsFG4G3NLxMj7aSmBPBU9GVSks9xzCrlXENBngVHTQhZJ9IZlUb_KIS6NEYNqiZJg8_hbTrfM9Vf4pXqr8elbcvSk-_HKQCv3U0yfl0-Gz8jINR2CQYr33GKOHYhk/s1600/swami-sivananda-japa-yoga.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "JAPA YOGA" written by Swami Sivananda</i></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-45290634930448870922016-09-15T16:41:00.001+05:302016-09-17T15:50:08.216+05:30Shikandi <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4732uCJ0jmoBKxXZUJJmHRtfezOcr870JEwgix4wwdiy6hpB5rJUqg6ophMmgayYU9Y03UJpfSSinC6rRoL2Xo0k6YD7zhby4vgQJXzE4gAiPuJCa6vi83pFh2nAtkEjPvvZFX40L9Gru/s1600/tumblr_nca0eowEDp1tll0h6o9_500.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4732uCJ0jmoBKxXZUJJmHRtfezOcr870JEwgix4wwdiy6hpB5rJUqg6ophMmgayYU9Y03UJpfSSinC6rRoL2Xo0k6YD7zhby4vgQJXzE4gAiPuJCa6vi83pFh2nAtkEjPvvZFX40L9Gru/s400/tumblr_nca0eowEDp1tll0h6o9_500.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Shikandi, who became a man to satisfy her wife</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5xHljfPOuPxqrgtvFs1pn_7HD0-bYiwotN6ZhiDP5nS8ZG8DO9p0zyodLPvyf9yMfDP1EU7d7M7keOdV8smrVoLb4kGfTvKP_AbZSslMLqMBaZjAMAu2Jw0Is6kNvgHXKpWcX2fuPa6P/s1600/tumblr_nca0eowEDp1tll0h6o9_500.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5xHljfPOuPxqrgtvFs1pn_7HD0-bYiwotN6ZhiDP5nS8ZG8DO9p0zyodLPvyf9yMfDP1EU7d7M7keOdV8smrVoLb4kGfTvKP_AbZSslMLqMBaZjAMAu2Jw0Is6kNvgHXKpWcX2fuPa6P/s400/tumblr_nca0eowEDp1tll0h6o9_500.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Amba</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihQ6ie_eDyUVcYiKVGO83xD5pSDtjlmwB4JzWlrtZqRhtirzvQO1N54fYSeSv9bWfDJUl1O1o9QmFgEd-EUb26DfnqlUf70wKoFlVqIkgtxcV-WOXJQ8tg-jxMOffGCBI77_exTZ1g91L/s1600/Bhisma_fight_in_Swayamvara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihQ6ie_eDyUVcYiKVGO83xD5pSDtjlmwB4JzWlrtZqRhtirzvQO1N54fYSeSv9bWfDJUl1O1o9QmFgEd-EUb26DfnqlUf70wKoFlVqIkgtxcV-WOXJQ8tg-jxMOffGCBI77_exTZ1g91L/s400/Bhisma_fight_in_Swayamvara.jpg" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhisma taking the three princes of Kashi<br />
after Swayamvara</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> There was once a princess called </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Amba,</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> who wanted to marry a man called </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Shalva</b><span style="text-align: justify;">. But on the day she was to select him as her husband, a warrior called </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Bhisma</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> abducted her and her sisters and took them to his city of Hastinapur where they were told they would have to marry his younger and far less competent half-brother, </span><b style="text-align: justify;">Vichitravirya</b><span style="text-align: justify;">.</span><br />
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<b>Amba </b>begged that she be allowed to marry the man of her choice and <b>Vichitravirya</b> let her go, as the idea of having to satisfy two wives was stressful enough.</div>
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Unfortunately for <b>Amba, Shalva</b> refused to accept her as his wife as she had been tainted, touched by another man. So <b>Amba</b> returned to <b>Vichitravirya</b>. He too refused to accept her, as 'a "gift" given away,' he said, 'cannot be taken back'.</div>
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<h3>
Bhishma</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Amba </b>then went to <b>Bhisma</b> and begged him to marry her. He said he could not as he had taken the vow of celibacy. 'Go back to your father,' he said, 'Or stay in the palace as a maid.'</div>
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A furious <b>Amba </b>prayed to <b>Kartikeya</b>, god of war, killer of men, who gave her a <b>garland of ever fresh lotuses</b>. Anyone who accepted this garland would kill <b>Bhisma.</b> Unfortunately, no man on earth accepted it, celestial grace notwithstanding.</div>
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When even <b>Drupada</b>, powerful king of Panchala, turned his back on her, a frustrated <b>Amba </b>flung the garland and it landed up hanging from a pillar in <b>Drupada's</b> palace.</div>
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<h3>
Sage Parashuram</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUqgyDckTGptJ8HuWa_ZOmzk4p9hdmH932VrnhJsuhYhlAnkF88Q7SJu-FaX_wjtMzcCmxNmnNecw3oaZFiH2IJoAGzxAwxQw9MtscBX10KCgDnCdECPtbDWemxgVvwJr8RhHhCkBkXbp/s1600/The_sage_Narada_and_the_gods_stop_Bhishma%2527s_battle_with_Parashurama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUqgyDckTGptJ8HuWa_ZOmzk4p9hdmH932VrnhJsuhYhlAnkF88Q7SJu-FaX_wjtMzcCmxNmnNecw3oaZFiH2IJoAGzxAwxQw9MtscBX10KCgDnCdECPtbDWemxgVvwJr8RhHhCkBkXbp/s400/The_sage_Narada_and_the_gods_stop_Bhishma%2527s_battle_with_Parashurama.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sage Narada and God stops Bhishma's battle<br />
with Parasuram</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Amba</b> then approached <b>Parashuram</b>, a sage who was expert in the martial arts, and who was renowned for his hatred or warriors. She requested him to be her champion and punish <b>Bhisma</b>, who had ruined her life. <b>Parashuram</b> tried, but failed, 'His vow of celibacy has granted him the power to choose the time of his death. I cannot defeat him,' he said.</div>
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<h3>
Death of Amba</h3>
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A desperate <b>Amba</b> invoked <b>Shiva</b>, the destroyer. <b>Shiva</b> appeared, pleased with her intense austerities, and said rather cryptically that she would be the cause of <b>Bhisma's</b> death but only in her next life. To hasten her next life, <b>Amba</b> leapt into the fire and died.</div>
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<h3>
Appearance of Shiva</h3>
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She was reborn as <b>Drupada's</b> daughter. But <b>Drupada</b> wanted a son and had been promised one by Shiva. Convinced that Shiva would not lie to him, <b>Drupada</b> claimed his daughter was actually his son and ordered her to be raised as one.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
Birth of Shikhandi</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWt-QCLBULMR65gCmnuhXShSINsKLJYqix6BO3biQ5GYIAslRfNbLJxMj7HmAO7elWPnPsirs-QQQComQidfSqfYUqKjKMjZlmsBNEqVEIE3r02N55J1bw2a6jzZY0pWZGPqfySsC1A3g8/s1600/shikandi+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWt-QCLBULMR65gCmnuhXShSINsKLJYqix6BO3biQ5GYIAslRfNbLJxMj7HmAO7elWPnPsirs-QQQComQidfSqfYUqKjKMjZlmsBNEqVEIE3r02N55J1bw2a6jzZY0pWZGPqfySsC1A3g8/s400/shikandi+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The girl, named <b>Shikhandi</b>, was taught all the skills reserved for men. She grew up believing she was a warrior. She was even given a wife. But on the wedding night, when the bride discovered that her husband was a woman, <b>Shikhandini</b> not <b>Shikandi</b>, she ran to her father in a state of shock. </div>
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<h3>
King Hiranyavarna</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Determined to avenge this insult, the bride's father, <b>King</b> <b>Hianyavarna</b> of Dasarna, raised an army and threatened to invade Panchala. <b>Drupada</b> knew that the only way to save his kingdom was to prove that his 'son' was truly a man. He also knew that this was impossible.</div>
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<h3>
Sthuna raksha</h3>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Confronted with her femininity for the first time in her life, <b>Shikhandi</b> felt responsible for this calamity. Resolving to kill herself, she went to the forest. But a <i>yaksha</i> called <b>Sthuna</b> saved her. Was it a woman he saved or a man? For the girl thought like a man and felt like a man and had always been treated as a man. But that body of hers was certainly not a man's.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
On hearing Shikhandi's story, <b>Sthuna </b>lent her his manhood for one night. Thus equipped. <b>Shikhandi</b> could prove his masculinity to anyone who cared to test it. <b>Hiranyavarna</b> sent his courtesans who sent back a satisfactory report. Concluding that his daughter had made a mistake, Hiranyavarna apologized to Drupada and sent his daughter back. <b>Shikhandi</b> then performed his husbandly duties to the satisfaction of his newly wedded wife.</div>
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<h3>
Kubera</h3>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9BMUzN9LwdjXzhZ-t0jI-Kikl6XnR543k8tkdSqPCb5GLCs8Z6VjHPz3Wos0ORw7gOTElhpqnekEh1-7LI76afRlmUYxb1Dvh3YPT_0JQkYGH5ZotdwaEohMeWgBKSp11nAPlIrVZRzf/s1600/Kubera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9BMUzN9LwdjXzhZ-t0jI-Kikl6XnR543k8tkdSqPCb5GLCs8Z6VjHPz3Wos0ORw7gOTElhpqnekEh1-7LI76afRlmUYxb1Dvh3YPT_0JQkYGH5ZotdwaEohMeWgBKSp11nAPlIrVZRzf/s320/Kubera.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
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Kubera, king of <i>yakshas, </i>was very angry with <b>Sthuna</b> for lending out his manhood; such things are not to be done. But when <b>Shikhandi</b>, true to his promise, came to the <i>yaksha</i> to return the borrowed organ, <b>Kubera</b> was so pleased with his integrity that he allowed <b>Shikhandi</b> use of the <i>yasha's</i> manhood as long as he lived. It would return to <b>Sthuna</b> only after <b>Shikhandi</b> died.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b> Drupada</b> was happy to finally get a son, but then, to his dismay, Shikhandi in a rather cavalier moment placed around his neck Amba's garland of ever-fresh lotus flower that for years had been hanging on a pillar of his palace. 'He will kill Bhisma,' moaned Drupada. 'But I need a son who will kill Drona.' </div>
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<h3>
Drona</h3>
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNtTi5np90-nNtYVqmh2yXYEV86rOikIQNop5yuJRfx54j33BRUayIgrtv3N8FLLGlZXnL04r4CnqkMBwUjEkHwt4JUP5-sBy0iFiWjskLhHPCirOXhQBnXLdktb0-sPl5wqp1gfZUP2H/s1600/Dronacharya_as_commander_in_chief._jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNtTi5np90-nNtYVqmh2yXYEV86rOikIQNop5yuJRfx54j33BRUayIgrtv3N8FLLGlZXnL04r4CnqkMBwUjEkHwt4JUP5-sBy0iFiWjskLhHPCirOXhQBnXLdktb0-sPl5wqp1gfZUP2H/s400/Dronacharya_as_commander_in_chief._jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dronacharya, as commander-in-chief of<br />
Kaurava army.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Drona was a teacher of the Kuru princes. And the Kuru princes were Vichitravirya's grandsons. They included the five Pandavas, sons of Pandu, and the hundred Kauravas, the sons of Dhritarashtra. Bhisma had asked Drona to tutor the Kuru princes, and as tuition fee, Drona had asked the Kuru princes to give him one half of Panchala. Accordingly, after a period of intense training, the boys had invaded Drupada's kingdom and claimed half of it for their teacher.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Drupada wanted a son who would kill Drona and a daughter who would divide the Kuru household that had supported Drona. Shikhandi could be neither one nor the other. He was useless. So Drupada conducted a <i>yagna</i> that would give him the children he wanted. The fire yielded <b>Draupadi,</b> the perfect woman and Dhristadhyumn, the perfect man. </div>
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<h3>
Draupadi</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Draupadi became the common wife of the five Pandava brothers who demanded a kingdom of their own as the hundred Kauravas refused to share Hastinapur with them. Bhisma gave them the forest of Khandavprastha on which they built the very impressive city of Indraprastha, rivaling the old city of Hastinapur. Thus did Drupada's daughter fulfill her father's wish.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The jealous Kauravas invited the Pandavas to a game of dice during which the Pandavas were lured into wagering their kingdom. Foolishly they gambled and lost their kingdom. Control over it could only be regained after thirteen years of forest exile.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the Pandavas returned from exile, the Kauravas refused to return even a needlepoint of Indraprastha. The only way to get back what was theirs was by declaring war. Drupada offered his army, led by Dhristadhyumna to his sons-in-law, knowing well that Drona would join the Kaurava side, giving his son the chance to fulfill his wish.</div>
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<h3>
Kurukshetra war</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodsXMjWcZnvZe7z6EdjXJy3Qz1KBZbgaq8EVhaY_Rr_47h72JJC5yDylDdHLpGIitdJ2nsPKzbAv3t_SpDnVnR223SGd9X7OMzr70KEfmEdD_zE_jFh6BsTa8ARcrZJGHIHhztDr3DG_f/s1600/1200px-The_Pandava_and_Kaurava_armies_face_each_other.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodsXMjWcZnvZe7z6EdjXJy3Qz1KBZbgaq8EVhaY_Rr_47h72JJC5yDylDdHLpGIitdJ2nsPKzbAv3t_SpDnVnR223SGd9X7OMzr70KEfmEdD_zE_jFh6BsTa8ARcrZJGHIHhztDr3DG_f/s400/1200px-The_Pandava_and_Kaurava_armies_face_each_other.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unfortunately, the war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas reached no conclusion despite nine days of fighting. Bhisma led the Kaurava forces. Though old, he was still formidable force in battle. 'As long as I hold the bow, my children, no arrow will get past me. Besides no one can kill me as I can choose the time of my death,' declared Bhishma. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
This was the clue Krishna was looking for Krishna, cousin of the Pandavas and friend to Draupadi, said, 'He cannot be killed but he can be pinned to the ground by arrows. For that we have to get him to lower his bow. He will lower his bow not before a man but certainly before a woman. But how do we get a woman into the battlefield? That is not permitted by law.'</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
Death of Bhishma </h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKdz6Sam0Lonq1cWEQ7z2Tr51d3OmRa9FOERZCaFtgJnmaWQMnjLd5dg-7D_9acY3W3rcYOkk_Nn9mZ-E7twYkW_QnIF4A6txyJvlyydA_TnMijUYCs34wOe_Vo7BKSFPi5AFSLYa8R3a/s1600/1200px-Bhishma_refuses_to_fight_with_Shikandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKdz6Sam0Lonq1cWEQ7z2Tr51d3OmRa9FOERZCaFtgJnmaWQMnjLd5dg-7D_9acY3W3rcYOkk_Nn9mZ-E7twYkW_QnIF4A6txyJvlyydA_TnMijUYCs34wOe_Vo7BKSFPi5AFSLYa8R3a/s400/1200px-Bhishma_refuses_to_fight_with_Shikandi.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhishma refuses to fight with Shikandi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Drupada then offered his eldest child Shikhandi who was born a woman and had become a man. 'Bhisma will see him as a woman. But we will contest his view, for now he is a man with a wife who no longer doubts his masculinity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TWEJaNokAzeC_MvCq5dOgBzC2XdtwqkuI-CvuJx1GPXeLl8o6zvpJaS8OuEK24Fes_HLxXIp4EZIFwqGyEYQc_FTNTCMKC7CS8f200pT4_HvKJZA_3DCO8_6tFrM6RzBAlMSK-zqnNtq/s1600/bhisma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TWEJaNokAzeC_MvCq5dOgBzC2XdtwqkuI-CvuJx1GPXeLl8o6zvpJaS8OuEK24Fes_HLxXIp4EZIFwqGyEYQc_FTNTCMKC7CS8f200pT4_HvKJZA_3DCO8_6tFrM6RzBAlMSK-zqnNtq/s400/bhisma.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the tenth day, Shikhandi rode into battle on Krishna's chariot. Behind him was Arjuna, the third Pandava, greatest archer in the world. Sure enough Bhisma refused to raise his bow against him declaring, 'Born a woman you are always a woman.' Taking advantage of this Arjuna released a volley of arrows and pinned the old man to the ground.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
Death of Drupada </h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Following this incident, Drona was made commander of the Kaurava armies. He managed to kill Drupada. <b>Dhristadhyumna </b>avenged his father's death and fulfilled his destiny by eventually beheading Drona, something no one dared do as Drona was a brahmin.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg336gmXaXq0IBw9gIqe3aATmQQD0HFEYSAF-kQZ8X8Zow1Zat29W6OR4hUIVz4AsqIrg5U0LFFeen4dsluh9klFuwyJfKqCcnQTcVvKE7QssgZqwXCw7ZHc974khzplun-pLVIbEVkNYat/s1600/Drishtadyumna_as_Commander_in_chief_of_Pandava%2527s_Army.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg336gmXaXq0IBw9gIqe3aATmQQD0HFEYSAF-kQZ8X8Zow1Zat29W6OR4hUIVz4AsqIrg5U0LFFeen4dsluh9klFuwyJfKqCcnQTcVvKE7QssgZqwXCw7ZHc974khzplun-pLVIbEVkNYat/s400/Drishtadyumna_as_Commander_in_chief_of_Pandava%2527s_Army.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drishtadyumna as Commander in Chief<br />
of Pandava army.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Eventually all the Kauravas were killed and the kingdoms of Hastinapur and Indraprastha came under Pandava control. But it was no happy ending.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
Death of Shikhandi</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpjh1dHVNKydC3LpY619HeshbfUwmLDrZs3aUl2YXB0nxKY9vk728RInahtNiKEe_N8PXuLorsTvwNRKL18sVLdmm7vGf-CqE6wVQJoqHRjsxIBLsk2cHAFvFS-L5Cp3zdJGEuy8q42Qk/s1600/shikhandii+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpjh1dHVNKydC3LpY619HeshbfUwmLDrZs3aUl2YXB0nxKY9vk728RInahtNiKEe_N8PXuLorsTvwNRKL18sVLdmm7vGf-CqE6wVQJoqHRjsxIBLsk2cHAFvFS-L5Cp3zdJGEuy8q42Qk/s400/shikhandii+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the night of victory, Drona's son attached the Pandava camp when all the soldiers were sleeping and killed everyone there. Draupadi's sons were beheaded, her twin brother Dhristadhyumna was strangulated and her elder brother Shikhandi was found split in two.</div>
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<i><br /></i>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwU5CbaWAAXCLUJwxf4XFMWaC1NhTlsC74p2tpqZxtUYGwWvShF8oleZqkNdSVp2rN2L2hRMcXEOeQ3vPiVxlD5V7_1ZNU8gUAhblCPSA-YgM9hipTXteGB8txj8SodDShKfWb81ea9y08/s1600/Shikandi+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwU5CbaWAAXCLUJwxf4XFMWaC1NhTlsC74p2tpqZxtUYGwWvShF8oleZqkNdSVp2rN2L2hRMcXEOeQ3vPiVxlD5V7_1ZNU8gUAhblCPSA-YgM9hipTXteGB8txj8SodDShKfWb81ea9y08/s400/Shikandi+1.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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<i><b>Source</b>: Excerpts from the book "SHIKHANDI and other talents they don't tell you" </i><i>written by Devdutt Pattnaik.</i></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ </i></div>
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<br /></div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-90499169261497534432016-09-04T15:10:00.000+05:302016-09-04T15:10:16.633+05:3012 Forms of Ganesha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPL8YFzyQM3urmmRgXEW0CLFY9KA5bHMh4vFIa12hg4H4DebheEhOFQBv48oQwAt0g_kg8Z7O2bm_7ZHSX0c-MAYIL-Y0dwX_xgDxdRTxnLTJKX6QDppOOXqG5lSFeSUUZan2fvfmC7aI/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPL8YFzyQM3urmmRgXEW0CLFY9KA5bHMh4vFIa12hg4H4DebheEhOFQBv48oQwAt0g_kg8Z7O2bm_7ZHSX0c-MAYIL-Y0dwX_xgDxdRTxnLTJKX6QDppOOXqG5lSFeSUUZan2fvfmC7aI/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h3>
12 Forms of Ganesha explained</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8cQhLAOeidag-YsE7i7MOZO6tRCHTbXcDxpLh2eSaDkS_hUnu2hXsu1J9TP4YGLO_Ndo6ZWrVjIpw6d43PDCB9-gNLzW4SriiocPi-MtbjR5oRir4rOo2hh9BZoam1jKeFpie4JpN-RF/s1600/Maha+Ganapati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8cQhLAOeidag-YsE7i7MOZO6tRCHTbXcDxpLh2eSaDkS_hUnu2hXsu1J9TP4YGLO_Ndo6ZWrVjIpw6d43PDCB9-gNLzW4SriiocPi-MtbjR5oRir4rOo2hh9BZoam1jKeFpie4JpN-RF/s400/Maha+Ganapati.jpg" width="385" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maha Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
1. MAHA GANAPATI</h3>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Supreme Ganesha, blesses us with overall success and protection in all aspects of life.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1mtaM3wLMFusIvVP0Wt2VoJ9s6BuqpJKGT_8lw20n6ynng87oEEoWCAd7UyvaEWhavmjJsactNhGy5Ov4GH5mRHSbNxFy-u8bcfv5rO1zzKvvnotPsYCKqY4OtaqPLkfIWHUzJEmO2PF/s1600/Dwija+Ganesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig1mtaM3wLMFusIvVP0Wt2VoJ9s6BuqpJKGT_8lw20n6ynng87oEEoWCAd7UyvaEWhavmjJsactNhGy5Ov4GH5mRHSbNxFy-u8bcfv5rO1zzKvvnotPsYCKqY4OtaqPLkfIWHUzJEmO2PF/s400/Dwija+Ganesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dwija Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
2. DWIJA GANESA</h3>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The twice-born, blesses us with good health and prosperity. He is depicted as having four heads and four hands with rosary beads, a book, a water vessel and a staff.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZtK4xeehr5h-7mRdgZfd_Ce2dCjFn947SrF9-avWiGIBXyBon3dV38Em21bNTzuYZJrij9EBJV6ifAZG76_sy_pSj6stfUWXA3E7wvy43BVPCUFhWLEct-qs7E2RdI8zPb53ox3S9K9b/s1600/Heramba_ganapati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZtK4xeehr5h-7mRdgZfd_Ce2dCjFn947SrF9-avWiGIBXyBon3dV38Em21bNTzuYZJrij9EBJV6ifAZG76_sy_pSj6stfUWXA3E7wvy43BVPCUFhWLEct-qs7E2RdI8zPb53ox3S9K9b/s400/Heramba_ganapati.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heramba Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
3. HERAMBA GANAPATI</h3>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Mother's beloved son who is capable of protecting one's wealth, is depicted as five headed Ganesha with ten hands, riding on a lion.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt41QtIiJa9EzNr7fFK_gq-TK2hcUDT6526_CbGUa-X9HWrK-mYfO1tkAFkReM4qBsKP8UDCI2tmachPFYJ_Dvhx1mRH_-8UGjqjWLWSMuVt0gI-cGuDzCN0TSWX6ifxlwEDL4H42FFFqJ/s1600/Veera+Ganapati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt41QtIiJa9EzNr7fFK_gq-TK2hcUDT6526_CbGUa-X9HWrK-mYfO1tkAFkReM4qBsKP8UDCI2tmachPFYJ_Dvhx1mRH_-8UGjqjWLWSMuVt0gI-cGuDzCN0TSWX6ifxlwEDL4H42FFFqJ/s400/Veera+Ganapati.jpg" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veera Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3>
4. VEERA GANAPATI</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoFVCpHkx1BBZAGU6dM8vUqbOQH_pkyHznllJBPE3Irafo69OCKl5hyphenhyphenD2isZ0ktDKu3tC5gPSny2rxvjwrT3c2aejhLBkfrfEKcqAeiq9_9xYfRjvOuzNToV64BF0joaRhTogrvPOpSvx/s1600/veera_ganapati_1680x1050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoFVCpHkx1BBZAGU6dM8vUqbOQH_pkyHznllJBPE3Irafo69OCKl5hyphenhyphenD2isZ0ktDKu3tC5gPSny2rxvjwrT3c2aejhLBkfrfEKcqAeiq9_9xYfRjvOuzNToV64BF0joaRhTogrvPOpSvx/s400/veera_ganapati_1680x1050.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veera Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Valiant warrior form of Ganesha with 16 arms holding 16 powerful weapons, can protect women from all female-related diseases.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCySwoyhBYoXBz6zjr5uck27ZZpfsiL-pP-pY7Sp-_VcANvB_daCoggbpo_edQHjQHFP6F9BmWFEQ8Ou1TfGi2DvVvFZ5h8b1md5YNG4Fs7_6a4rm0uuEG5H7j1rYwiWFO0nUVTHomy2ID/s1600/Karpaga+Vinayagar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCySwoyhBYoXBz6zjr5uck27ZZpfsiL-pP-pY7Sp-_VcANvB_daCoggbpo_edQHjQHFP6F9BmWFEQ8Ou1TfGi2DvVvFZ5h8b1md5YNG4Fs7_6a4rm0uuEG5H7j1rYwiWFO0nUVTHomy2ID/s400/Karpaga+Vinayagar.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karpaga Vinayagar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
5. KARPA VINAYAGAR</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The two-handed wish-fulfilling Ganesha, seated in ardha padmasana [half-lotus posture], blesses us with wealth. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_FfOiD-K1ScatyjxtMWasCRYglsA-tBozBx-p5Ei3R1HIBUcouqA01eFgAVvR20_F8XWoAf5JUctJqpu4qUAOwpU35HR8vTprJcdjQ0e3iBk0qIXPI1HyjLgK5ao-GdGBuaFV24vBs8D/s1600/Twin-Ganesha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_FfOiD-K1ScatyjxtMWasCRYglsA-tBozBx-p5Ei3R1HIBUcouqA01eFgAVvR20_F8XWoAf5JUctJqpu4qUAOwpU35HR8vTprJcdjQ0e3iBk0qIXPI1HyjLgK5ao-GdGBuaFV24vBs8D/s400/Twin-Ganesha.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
6. TWIN GANAPATI</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The twin Ganeshas, help us remove obstacles, poverty and diseases, balance our dosha and blesses us with good relationship.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8RLVcJV2Fe9jISO8cU8woVKvluC_Iu91WROn4ZJArENaPDhkeVbPSUWIL6W9cnqk0PtNygIZRbv37HZfzUatMK22qzrmVPKX4gIdeZTfmebBoZW4nGVFnAv1N9cfMBlqZjpfR8add0U9/s1600/Adhi+vinayagar.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8RLVcJV2Fe9jISO8cU8woVKvluC_Iu91WROn4ZJArENaPDhkeVbPSUWIL6W9cnqk0PtNygIZRbv37HZfzUatMK22qzrmVPKX4gIdeZTfmebBoZW4nGVFnAv1N9cfMBlqZjpfR8add0U9/s400/Adhi+vinayagar.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adhi vinayagar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
7. NARAMUGA GANESA</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Also known as <i>Adhi Vinayakar</i>, is an ancient form of Ganesha with a human head rather than an elephant head.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR4HEGRcWD04w2gujgfzqpdfniaMElzSyE8-dMSGrVLRFLcwh09SnH2Qn8h0fNHZKZAwSfWutdevQmFu-CzqaltGVkgwQ0s6fizr327Vfchyphenhyphenr3SJXlehfY4T9Rk26jsAx7rhOT2d6GFK8/s1600/Siddhi+Buddhi+Ganapati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR4HEGRcWD04w2gujgfzqpdfniaMElzSyE8-dMSGrVLRFLcwh09SnH2Qn8h0fNHZKZAwSfWutdevQmFu-CzqaltGVkgwQ0s6fizr327Vfchyphenhyphenr3SJXlehfY4T9Rk26jsAx7rhOT2d6GFK8/s400/Siddhi+Buddhi+Ganapati.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siddhi and Buddhi Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
8. SIDDHI AND BUDDHI GANAPATI</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcMeYro_y62Sh4OeUnCNPQ6uAEmY0UZqD4Fki-4U5Y-1AzVlWHBQkmyDqBHSZdnMA8vWMmI5ND47sioa1_EdYca0cl7Fcn59ZrIhNFkzNzQxAb69GKj-2DFHtTB9fqrjLIHXyWtne9X-o/s1600/siddhi__buddhi_ganesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcMeYro_y62Sh4OeUnCNPQ6uAEmY0UZqD4Fki-4U5Y-1AzVlWHBQkmyDqBHSZdnMA8vWMmI5ND47sioa1_EdYca0cl7Fcn59ZrIhNFkzNzQxAb69GKj-2DFHtTB9fqrjLIHXyWtne9X-o/s400/siddhi__buddhi_ganesa.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siddhi and Buddhi Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Intelligent, has two consorts named Siddhi and Buddhi; Siddhi, who gives us intuitive intelligence, and Buddhi who gives us analytical intelligence.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLR79kKNWt6h679QR0zuW2DqLvD7sQ2XFqeQHJIzTTXISM-1jHkUOPi3ZV9GN2zS6gWSlj_GmQzzrOUJrvoblmE2Ki5FfKCU2YXq_xQdn5TUq54sQiTZ9_5ilxfId2x1d3YXN99nl-CcK/s1600/niruta-ganapathi-8in-500px.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLR79kKNWt6h679QR0zuW2DqLvD7sQ2XFqeQHJIzTTXISM-1jHkUOPi3ZV9GN2zS6gWSlj_GmQzzrOUJrvoblmE2Ki5FfKCU2YXq_xQdn5TUq54sQiTZ9_5ilxfId2x1d3YXN99nl-CcK/s400/niruta-ganapathi-8in-500px.png" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niruta Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
9. NIRUTA GANAPATI</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Dancer, depicted dancing under the wish-granting tree, can help us receive the blessings of both the Divine and our ancestors.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMmH-HhHpbFCBmUGqZxjypTCTZItaTZcGRx36LBK6lgyCuqTnsiXauT7a1qZhmKU5TwJxIz55b4zHyaX2fgOyfL-mLvpi7bSEvq5-AEKvZHwr9U4vJIQlnXIbPnCnjtVKFCEc-YMp-fG4/s1600/vighna-ganapati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMmH-HhHpbFCBmUGqZxjypTCTZItaTZcGRx36LBK6lgyCuqTnsiXauT7a1qZhmKU5TwJxIz55b4zHyaX2fgOyfL-mLvpi7bSEvq5-AEKvZHwr9U4vJIQlnXIbPnCnjtVKFCEc-YMp-fG4/s400/vighna-ganapati.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vigna Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
10. VIGNA GANAPATI</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBiXnjhS02Bi1ue6lAZYnU0-kBbBvNUh0w5k47jdTOBLIGAFnL4JG-n0r3hKCZKLmE8Q1DrM_xegIEzIFNA4rsKMCpq01UPrssrdTgOBgFgvRJkQnVfX_Qo_ciplDsK1RyPnOC7ND14-y/s1600/Vighna-Ganapati-at-temple-in-thailand-Stock-Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkBiXnjhS02Bi1ue6lAZYnU0-kBbBvNUh0w5k47jdTOBLIGAFnL4JG-n0r3hKCZKLmE8Q1DrM_xegIEzIFNA4rsKMCpq01UPrssrdTgOBgFgvRJkQnVfX_Qo_ciplDsK1RyPnOC7ND14-y/s400/Vighna-Ganapati-at-temple-in-thailand-Stock-Photo.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vigna Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Obstacle Remover, is depicted as having eight hands with a conch shell and wheel, like archetype Vishnu, and is capable of removing all obstacles in life.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
11. SELVI SAITHA GANAPATI</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Selvi Saitha Ganapati, is a unique form of Ganesha who in Kali Yuga protects those who are punished despite their good deeds.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjNBgo6-sYS7BxJlJ1eR5Mk9f22EBRMVWxUIzn_7-X81_LvspikZhaOvASIf4AWoTZ8MqMMqvzVXi8oNvWxApn2PV8pS9YC3GeTqttE-J9BdOKFSKzW6yjtyCTmbwRiQxNVnSSuK9IRrc/s1600/kalinga-ganesha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjNBgo6-sYS7BxJlJ1eR5Mk9f22EBRMVWxUIzn_7-X81_LvspikZhaOvASIf4AWoTZ8MqMMqvzVXi8oNvWxApn2PV8pS9YC3GeTqttE-J9BdOKFSKzW6yjtyCTmbwRiQxNVnSSuK9IRrc/s400/kalinga-ganesha.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalinga Narthana Ganapati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
12. KALINGA NARTHANA GANAPATI</h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kalinga Narthana Ganapati, is a dancing form of Ganesha who is depicted dancing on the forehead of the snake named Kalinga.<br />
<br /></div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-370415092698805132016-08-17T17:12:00.002+05:302016-08-17T17:12:41.529+05:30Gayatri Mantra<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocDrh2_XlJl8yyPL8a0fB70A_UsO8c68k4Nxi3afUP6tv6zxYua2xhfhvknx6WMEpirdKeQPF0YlHA_VBrTuTfGxD7a3C67BITihgFxQ_whQcNwhaI3i8O6kphOPFQ-EWssZulCCo73sR/s1600/gayatri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocDrh2_XlJl8yyPL8a0fB70A_UsO8c68k4Nxi3afUP6tv6zxYua2xhfhvknx6WMEpirdKeQPF0YlHA_VBrTuTfGxD7a3C67BITihgFxQ_whQcNwhaI3i8O6kphOPFQ-EWssZulCCo73sR/s400/gayatri.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
<i>Srauta Gayatri</i></h3>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br />
<i>Om bhurbhuvah svah tat-savitur-varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi |</i><i>dhiyo yo nah pracodayat.||</i></blockquote>
<br />
<h3>
<i>Smarta Gayatri</i></h3>
<br />
<i>"yo devah savitasmakam dhiyo dharmadi gocharah |</i><br />
<i>prerayet tasya yat bhargah tat varenyam upasamahe" ||</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h3>
Japa <i>vidhih</i></h3>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first point to be noted is that <i>gayatri</i> is <i>pancavasana, </i>having <b>five stops</b>. The <b>first stop</b> is <b>after </b><i><b>omkara</b>, </i>the <b>second stop</b> is after <i>bhurbhuvah suvah vyahrith, </i>the <b>third stop</b> is after <i>tatsaviturvarenyam, </i>the <b>fourth stop</b> after <i>bhargo devasya dhimahi</i> and the <b>final stop</b> <i>dhiyo yo nah pracodayat.</i> Many people pronounce wrongly with a long "I", <i>dhiyo yo nah </i>is wrong pronunciation. The 'i' should be short. It is <i>dhiyo yo nah pracodayat.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i> </i>The <b>second point</b>, it should have only 23 letters and not 24 letters. Therefore, <b><i>tatsaviturvarenyam</i> </b>should be chanted and not <i>tatsaviturvareniyam. </i>If <i>ni yam </i> are separated, it is <i>gayatri chandah</i> and <i>ni </i>and <i>yam </i>are combined <i>nyam - </i>it is <i>nichrd gayatrichandah. Ekasara vihina tu nichard gayatrichandamuchyate. </i>This <i>nichrd gayatri</i> is used for <i>pranayama arghyam danam </i>and <i>japa. </i>The other <i>gayatri </i>with 24 letters is supposed to be used for <i>homa, </i>etc.,</div>
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<h4>
Japa</h4>
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The <b>third point</b> with regard to <b><i>japa</i> </b>is being pointed out. <i>Japa</i> is supposed to be of three types -</div>
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1. <i>Ucca Japah </i>[2] <i>Manda japah </i>[3] <i>Manasam japah</i></div>
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<b>[1]</b> <b><i>Ucca japah</i> </b>is a chanting, which is loud and audible to the people around. Sometimes it is audible and often times it is disturbing to others, if they are engaged in some other <i>vyavahara.</i> </div>
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<b>[2] </b> <b><i>Manda or upamsu japah</i> </b>is chanting with the lip movement and which is audible only to the chanting person. It is not audible to the people around, like a murmur, murmuring chant with the lip and the tongue movement. </div>
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<b>[3] <i>Manasam japah</i> </b>where lip movement, tongue movement and even throat movement is not there. It is purely and totally mental chanting.</div>
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Of these three, which one is to be adopted? All the three can be adopted but there is a gradation. The gradation is described in this manner -</div>
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"<i>uttamam manasam japyam, upamsu madyama smrtah |</i><i>adhamam vacikam prahuh sarva mantresu vai dvijah" ||</i></blockquote>
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<i>"</i>The <b>best is mental </b><i><b>japa,</b> </i>mediocre is murmuring, the lowest is said to be loud <i>japa, </i>and this is applicable to all forms of chanting."</div>
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It is not for <i>Gayatri mantra</i> alone, <i>sarva mantresu vai dvijah, </i>it is applicable to all chanting. Of the three, <b>mental chanting has got the greatest value.</b> In terms of <i>punya - </i>if loud chanting has got one unit of <i>punya, upamsu japa, </i>murmuring has got ten unis and <i>manasam japa</i> hundred times the benefit. Of course <i>manasa japa</i> is difficult, because you cannot be that mechanical in <i>manasa japa, </i>whereas in <i>vacika japa</i> mouth can go on chanting and mind can go on worrying. <br />
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Some people hold on to the '<i>poonoal/yajnopavittam' </i>(the sacred thread) and do all <i>vyavahara! Gayatri </i>will be on but other thoughts like 'Who has come?' 'What does he want?' 'What is the phone call?' 'What is the message?' Recently I read somewhere that one should not hold on to sacred thread while chanting. <b>We are supposed to use the hand for counting.</b> This is an incidental point. We can become mechanical in the chanting if it is louder; whereas if it is mental one has to involve oneself. Therefore, it is going to be difficult and hence the <b><i>punyam</i> is more.</b> What is more difficult will give more <i>punyam</i> and what is less difficult will give less <i>punyam. </i>But if a person is not able to do <i>manasa japa, </i>the only way out is to start with <i>ucha japah</i> and gradually come to <i>manda japah</i> and gradually proceed to <i>manasa japah. </i>This is ideal for most of the people.</div>
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During the <i>japa</i> one cannot think of the deity (visualize) not only with respect of <i>gayatri, </i>it is with respect to any <i>japa. </i><b>The imagination of the deity is only before the <i>mantra</i> chanting during invocation</b>. If during <i>japa one (visualizes) </i>imagines the deity, either the <i>japa </i>will become mechanical or imagination will become impossible. Therefore, deity visualization is only before the <i>japa</i> and later the concentration is only on the mantra.</div>
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<h3>
Concentration on the mantra</h3>
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The concentration on the mantra is twofold - either the <i>mantra </i>can be <i>sabda pradhana or the mantra </i>can be <i>artha pradhana. </i>In <i><b>sabda pradhana japah,</b> </i>I don't think of the meaning I just visualize the sound. <i>Bhurbhuvassuvah tat saviturvarenyam - </i>the <i>sabda</i> alone I visualize. The <i>sabda</i> itself sacred and it is capable of giving the <i>phalam. </i>In fact, it is <i>japa</i> it is <i>sabda pradhana</i> only. The meaning can be visualized before the beginning of the <i>japa</i> or after the <i>japa</i> but not during <i>japa. </i>The <i><b>artha pradhana japa</b></i> is - I see the meaning of the <i>mantra</i> and I don't give that importance to the <i>sabda. </i>So in <i>gayatri</i> also, when it is used as a daily ritual it is <i>sabda pradhana</i><b>, </b>the<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>sound portion only.<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i> </div>
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<h3>
The meaning of <i>Gayatri mantra</i></h3>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i> </i>When we chant the <i>gayatri, </i>we are adding two portions, the <i>pranava</i> and the <i>vyahrti</i>. <b>Om</b> is called <i><b>pranava manatra</b></i> which is not a part of <i>gayatri. Bhurbhuvah suvah </i>is <i>vyahrti mantra </i>which is also not a part of <i>gayatri </i>They are appended. Then what is actual <i>gayatri? </i>The three lines - <i>tatsavitruvarenyam, bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yo nah pracodayat. </i>We will see the meaning part by part.</div>
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<h3>
The first part is <i>Pranava Omkara</i></h3>
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<i>Omkara</i> is a very much glorified in the scriptures and it is said that irrespective of the meaning of the <i>omkara,</i> the very sound '<i>Om' </i>is a purifying mantra.</div>
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<i>omkarsca atha sabdasca dvavetau brahmanah pura |</i><i>kantam bhitva viniryatau tasmat mangalikau ubhau ||</i><i><br /></i></blockquote>
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<i> </i>It is said that <i>Brahmaji</i> initiated this creation after uttering the two words <i>'om' </i>and <i>'atha', </i>therefore they are <i>mangalam </i>because of the sound and whatever be the meaning.</div>
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<b><i>Omkara</i> </b>is supposed to be the best name of the Lord. Lord has got so many names but the best name of the Lord is supposed to be '<i>Om'. </i>It is said in the <i>Gita 'om tatsaditi nirdesah brahmanastrividha smrtah' [17.23], Om tat </i>and <i>sat</i> -- these three are the names of <i>Brahma</i> or the Lord. Because of this alone <i>Omkara</i> is known by the name <i>pranavah. Pranavah </i>means a name which is ideal for the Lord. <i>'prakarsena nuyate brahma abhidhiyate anena iti pranavah 'om' - </i>by which word <i>Brahman</i> is well understood and that name is called <i>'pranavam'. </i>Why <i>Omkara</i> is the ideal name? Many reasons can be given but we will point out two reasons.</div>
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One is <i>Omkarah </i>is <i>ekasharam. </i>It is one syllable word and Lord is also one - <i>'Omkarah ekah brahma ekam'. Omkarah is aksarah, </i>syllable and <i>Brahman</i> is <i>aksaram, </i>the imperishable one. In addition to this there are philosophical significances which we find in <i>Mandukya Upanisad. Omkara </i>is he ideal name for the Lord and therefore by uttering this we remember the Lord. </div>
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The word <i>Omkara</i> is derived from the root <i>'av raksane' 'avati raksati iti om.' </i>The one who protests is called <i>'om'. </i>It is applicable to the mantra and also to the Lord. '<i>padam api raksati padarthah isvarah api raksati'.</i></div>
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<h3>
The Second part is <i>Vyahrti mantra</i></h3>
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<i> Vyahrti mantra </i>is also supposed to be auspicious irrespective of its meaning and because of the sound it is supposed to be very sacred. By the very <i>uccaranam, </i>the sound purifies and that is why it is called <i>vyahritih. </i>There are different definitions given for <i>vyarti. </i></div>
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1. <i>Bhurbhuvastatha purvam svayameva svyambhuva vyahrta jnana dehena tena vyahrtayah smrta</i></div>
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<i> </i>These three mantras have been uttered by <i>Brahmaji</i> Himself. </div>
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<i>Brahma vyahrta iti vyahritih</i></div>
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It has been uttered in the beginning itself therefore it is auspicious like <i>Omkara.</i></div>
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2. <i>'visesena asmantat harati papani iti vyahrtih' papan apaharati </i>that which removes all the <i>papa</i> when it is uttered. It is a purifier so it is uttered before beginning the rituals.</div>
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Meaning wise <i>bhu bhuvah </i>and <i>suvah</i> represent the three <i>lokas</i> which are the manifestations of the Lord. The simple meaning is - I remember <i>'om'</i> the Lord who manifests in the form of the three <i>lokas.</i></div>
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<i> 'trolika rupena paridrsyamanam omkara abhidheyamisvaram smarami'.</i></div>
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<i> </i>This is the meaning of <i>om bhur buvah suvah.</i></div>
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From <i>Vedanta </i> standpoint <i>om-kara</i> represents the <i>nirguna turiyam, bhur bhvah suvah</i> represent the <i>saguna visva taijasa prajna. </i>Therefore, <i>om bhur bhuvah suvah</i> represent <i>catuspad brahma.</i> </div>
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I remmber the <i>nirguna brahma</i> who alone is manifesting in the form of <i>saguna brahma - saguna visva virat, saguna taijasa hiranyagarbha, saguna prajna isvara</i> that Lord I remember. This is the philossophical meaning of the <i>pranava </i>and the<i> vyahriti.</i></div>
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<h3>
The third part is <i>gayatri mantrah</i></h3>
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<i> </i>The <i>samanya artah</i> is explained first for the general public. Then the <i>visesa vedanta artah</i> is being explained.</div>
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<i>samanya arthah</i></div>
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<i> </i>The <i>samanya arthah </i>is invocation of <i>surya devata. </i>According to the meaning is <i>"yam mam dhiyam pracodayat savituh devasya tat varenyam bhargah dhimahi". dhimahi </i>means we meditate upon. Meditate upon what? <i>varenyam bhargah </i>means, sacred, auspicious, adorable, <i>srestah bhargah, </i>brilliance, effulgence. We meditate upon that most effulgent or light of whom? <i>Devasya savituh, </i>of the Lord Sun, <i>surya devasya tejah dhyayamah; dhimahi dhyayomah. </i>In What way is it sacred? <i>nah dhiyah pracodayat </i>- which effulgence alone, which energy alone, which light alone <i>pracodayat</i> means enlivens, energizes, activates, <i>prerayapti - </i>which sunlight that energizes <i>dhiyah, </i>our <i>buddhi, </i>our intellect. So, the simple running meaning of the <i>gayatri</i> is - we meditate upon the sacred effulgence of Sun God which activates our intellect. The explanation for this in the Gita [Chapter 15.12]:-</div>
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<i>Bhagavan </i>says '<i>Oh Arjuna. </i>The light and energy in the Sun belongs to me".</div>
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Therefore, you look upon this sunlight in the early morning as the <i>pratyaksa </i>symbol of the Lord because Lord Krishna says "I am in the Sun as the light", there I can worship the Lord. How much of the glory is there?</div>
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<i>gamavisya ca bhutani dharayamyahamojasa |</i></div>
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<i>pusnami causadhih sarvah somo bhutva rasatmakah ||</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i> </i>That energy of the Sun alone pervades the whole Earth, nourishes all beings, activate all beings and even plants and animals. Therefore, we get nourishment from the sunlight. Even though it nourishes the whole being, here the student is interested in the <i>buddhi</i> alone. A <i>grahastha</i> is interested in health and money because he has to run the family. He does not have much time to read, so, not much intellect is required. <i>Buddhi</i> is primarily used by <i>brahacaris</i> and <i>sanyyasis.</i> Therefore, <i>brahmacari</i> is interested in <i>buddhi posanam.</i><br />
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<i>'mayi medham mayi prajam mayyagnistejo dadhatu mayi medham mayi prajam</i><br />
<i>mayindra indriyam dadhatu mayi medham mayi prajam mayi suryo bhrajo </i><br />
<i>dadhattu'</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"May Lord Agni, Lord Indra, Lord Surya, bless me with intelligence, continuity of progeny and radiance born of Vedic study, prowess and splendor."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Most of the <i>brahmachari</i> prayers seek <i>medha</i> and <i>prajna. Gayatri</i> is primarily a prayer or <i>brahmacari, </i>a vedic student. This world '<i>brahmachari' </i>does denote an unmarried person. <i>Brahmacari</i> means a <i>vedic </i>student and for him memory etc., is required <i>'yo nah dhivya pracodayat' </i>may the Sun God bless me. "Bless me" is not explicitly said, it is a <i>mantra</i> or statement, it is indirectly asked for. This is the <i>samanya arthah </i>of <i>Gayatri.</i><br />
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<h3>
<i>visesa vedanta arthah</i></h3>
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<i> </i>The <i>visesa vedanta arthah </i>- to understand this, one should have the background understanding of the <i>Upanisadic </i>teaching. Those who do not have the background can ignore this portion. <br />
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Here <i>dhimahi</i> means meditate upon, <i>nididhyasanam kurmahe. </i>It is <i>nididhyasanam</i> for a <i>Vedantic</i> student. <i>'dhimahi' </i>means <i>abhedena dhyayamah. </i>What do we want to meditate upon? <i>Bhargah varenyam</i> refers to <i>sachidananta svarupam. </i>We meditate upon the <i>saccidananda svarupam - tat bhargah varenyam. </i>Of what? <i>Savituh devasya - </i>of the Lord, <i>Isvarah, tat padarthah Isvarah. </i>We meditate upon the <i>saccidananda svarupam</i> of the Lord.<br />
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How do arrive at the meaning? We will analyze one by one.<br />
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Here the word <i>savituh </i>literally means that which procreates the universe - <i>suyate iti savita.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Lord <i>Krisna</i> says, '<i>mayadyksena prakrtih suyate sacaracaram [Gita 9.10] su</i> means to procreate, to give birth to. <i>'savita' </i>means that which is the creator of the Universe. This <i>savita</i> is used as the material cause of the Universe. Mother is the material cause of the baby. Similarly <i>Isvara</i> is the material cause of the creation. <i>Savita=upadhanakaranam.</i><br />
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<i>'devasya' </i>means that which is effulgent <i>cetana svarupam, cetanatmakkam, </i>the intelligent principle. By using the word <i>devasya, </i>the Lord is supposed to be the intelligent cause of the creation also - <i>nimitta karanasya. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
So, the Lord is the material cause of the creation and the intelligent cause of the creation. Therefore, <i>savituh devasya</i> means <i>abhimna nimitta upadhana karanabhutasya brahmanah Isvarsya tatpada vacyarthbhtasya mayopaadhikasya.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
This is such a short statement but the Sanskrit commentators go crazy with this. They hae written umpteen numbers of <i>vykhyanams </i>including <i>Sankaracarya. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
What is the nature of that <i>Isvara? Upaadhi vinirmukte'pi kim svarupam syat? tat bhargah varenyam. Tat </i>refers to <i>tadeva soumya idamagra asit </i>-- refers to <i>sat svarupam</i> the nature of existence - <i>sattasvrupam. </i>The word <i>tat </i>has to be taken from <i>tat savituh</i> and join it with <i>tat varenyam bhargah. </i>These three words should be read together '<i>tat bhargah varenyam'. </i>So, <i>Brahman </i>or <i>Isvara's svarupam</i> is <i>sattasvrupam. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Bhargah</i> means that which is light, effulgent capable of removing darkness. It is derived from the root <i>bhrg dahe - bharjate </i>to burn down, to roast, to fry etc. This indicates the <i>caitanya svarupam</i> because <i>caitanyam </i>alone <i>devara andhakaram nasayati, andhakaram bharjate, samsaram bharjate. </i>We have both the meanings now. That which is effulgent and that which destroys ignorance through <i>vritti, vrittyarudham tat. </i>By way of removing darkness, ignorance, it removes <i>samsara </i>also. Thus <i>bhargah </i>stands for the awareness, <i>caitanyam, cit svarupam.</i><br />
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The third words is <i>varenyam. </i>Literally <i>varenyam</i> means that which is worth choosing by all - <i>varaniyam varana yogyam. </i>What is that, which is chosen by all? Can you say money? Position? On <i>Vedantic</i> analysis we say, in and through everything everybody chooses one thing <i>anandah </i>and <i>purnatvam, </i>fulfilment. Thus, there is only one <i>purusartha, varaniyam purusartha, </i>there is only one and that is <i>anandah. </i>Therefore, <i>varenyam </i>means <i>ananda svarupam.</i><br />
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<i>tat</i> means <i>sat svarupam, bhargah </i>means <i>cit svarupam, varenyam</i> means <i>ananda svarupam. </i><br />
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To whom does the three <i>svarupams </i>belong? <i>savituh devasya abhinna nimitta upadhana karanatmaka tatpada abhidheyasya Isvarsya etat svarupam dhimahi abhedena dhyayamah. </i><br />
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What type of <i>svarupam</i> is it? The third part <i>yah - caitanyam, </i>that all pervading <i>saccidananda svarupam</i> which is the cause of the creation behind the intellect also. As what? <i>Saksi rupah yah, ksetrajna rupah yah, anupravishtha rupah yah (anupravesa sruti - tat srstva tadevanupravisat).</i><br />
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There is also grammatical beauty here - starting with neuter gender word - <i>Brahman,</i> the mantra lands in a masculine gender word - <i>atma. Yah</i> is masculine which refers to <i>atma, tat</i> is neuter which refers to <i>Brahman. </i>That <i>Brahman, </i>which is <i>saccidananda svarupam</i> and is the <i>jagat karanam, </i>that <i>Brahman </i>since as <i>atma</i> by illumining the <i>buddhi. </i>so, the <i>yah, </i>which <i>caitanya svarupam, nah dhiyah, </i>our intellect, or to be precise<i> buddhi vrittih - (dhiyah, dhiyau, dhiyah - dvitiya bahuvacanam), </i>all our thoughts <i>pracodayat, </i>illumine <i>satta sphurti prahanena, </i>by giving both <i>satta</i> and <i>sphurti.</i><br />
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<i> </i>According to this interpretation, <i>tat savitur varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi </i> indicates <i>brahma caitanyam, dhiyo yo nah pracodayat</i> indicate <i>atma caitanyam, </i>all our thoughts <i>pracodayat, </i>illumine <i>satta sphurti pradhanena </i>by giving both <i>satta </i>and <i>sphurti.</i><br />
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<i> </i>According to this interpretation, <i>tat savitur varenyam bhargo devasyadhimahi</i> indicates <i>brahma caitanyam, dhoyo yo na pracodayat </i>indicate <i>atma caitanyam, dhimahi </i>indicates <i>abheda dhyanam. </i><br />
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<i> </i>We meditate upon the <i>atma caitanyam</i> which is nothing but <i>brahma caitanyam - prajnanam brahma. </i>This idea is contained in the famous <i>Tattirya mantra sa yascayam puruse yascavaditye sa ekah"</i><br />
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<i>"sa yascayam puruse' </i>is <i>dhiyo yo nah pracodayat yascavaditye</i> is <i>tat savittur varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi sa ekah </i>is <i>abhedena dhyayamah.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i> </i>This is the <i>Gayatri mantra</i> from <i>Vedantic</i> stand point.<br />
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If a person chants <i>Gayatri</i> before the study of <i>Vedanta</i> it becomes <i>upasanam</i>. But the very same <i>Gayatri</i> after the study of the <i>Vedanta</i> becomes <i>nididhyasanam - aham brahma asmi dhyanam. Gayatri visesa arthah sampatah </i> with this. </div>
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<h3>
The meaning of <i>smarta Gayatri.</i></h3>
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<i>"yo devah savitasmakam dhiyo dharmadi gocharah |</i></div>
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<i>prerayet tasya yat bhargah tat varenyam upasamahe" ||</i></div>
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This is the <i>smarta Gayatri</i> which is the same as the well known <i>srauta Gayatri. </i>The only difference is - the <i>Vedic Gayatri </i>has got three lines "<i>tat savittur varenyam, bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yo nah pracodayat".</i></div>
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<i>Om bhur bhuvassuvah</i> is chanted in the beginning and that is not part of <i>Gayatri, </i>it is merely an introduction. The real <i>vedic Gayatri </i>has only three lines. <i>smarta Gayatri </i>has got four lines. The meanings are the same. The effectiveness is also the same. Smarta <i>Gayatri</i> means non-vedic <i>Gayatri.</i></div>
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<h4>
What is the meaning?</h4>
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<i>Savita devah asmakam dhiyah prerayet| Savitah devah</i> means the Sun God. When we say Sun God, we refer to the Lord Sun alone who is invoked in the <i>Surya Mandala. Savita devahprerayet </i>- activate, direct. What does He activate? <i>asmakam dhiyah</i> - our intellect. The Sun God, activates, enlivens, energizes all our intellect.</div>
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<h4>
What type of intellect?</h4>
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<i> dharmadi gocarah - </i>Which intellect deals with varieties of knolwedge, light, <i>dharma, Gocarah, visayah </i>means a discipline of knowledge, any subject. Like what? <i>Dharmajnanam, satya jnanam, etc., </i>there are varieties of knowledge and <i>buddhi</i> deals with varieties of knowledge. That <i> buddhi,</i> the Sun activates.</div>
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What is the intention of the statement <i>dharmadi gocarah?</i></h3>
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<i> </i>The mind can also deal with <i>sattic</i> knowledge, <i>sattva vrittayah. </i>The mind can entertain <i>rajo vrttayah, rajasic </i>knowledge also; the mind can entertain <i>tamasic vrittis</i> also. Generally <i>sattvic vrittis</i> are less, <i>rajasic</i> and <i>tamasic</i> are more. Here we say that the Sun God changes the proportion. <i>dharmadi gocarah dhiyah prerayet</i> means - make the thoughts more and more <i>sattvic. </i>The <i>adharma vrittis, rajasic vrittis</i> and <i>tamasic vrittis </i> will reduce. <i>Daivi sampat </i> will increase. So, who does what? Sun God energizes the mind and makes it <i>sattvic.</i></div>
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<i> Tasya bhargah varenyam asti - tasya, </i>of the Sun God, <i>bhargah</i> means effulgent, radiance, brilliance or light, <i>prakasah. Tasya bhargah</i> means <i>suryasya bhargah, surya prakasah. </i>That <i>surya prakasah</i> is <i>varenyam, </i>holy, sacred. The light of the Sun God is the holiest and sacred which is capable of making me holy.</div>
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<i>Tat upsamahe - </i>I meditate upon that holy sunlight.</div>
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If you combine all the the sentences the meaning will be - "We meditate upon the sacred effulgence of that Sun God who activates our intellect which has got knowledge of <i>dharma</i> etc., a simple translation is <i>dharmic buddhi - dharmadi gocarah dhiyah (dhiyah </i>is <i>dvitiya bahuvacanam, dharmadi gocarah</i> is adjective to <i>dhiyah strilingam dvitiya bahuvacanam) </i>object of <i>prerayet.</i></div>
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<i> Savita dharmadi gocarah prerayet. </i>"We meditate upon the sacred effulgence of that Sun God who activates our <i>dharmic buddhi.</i></div>
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<i> </i>The <i>smarta Gayatri</i> is a holy <i>Gayatri. </i>The greatest advantage is that you do not require any sacred thread, there is no differentiation of male or female or young or old or Hindu or Christian, or Islam or <i>devah </i>or <i>asura. </i>It is <i>janata Gayatri, </i>Universal <i>Gayatri, </i>left and right you can initiate every one. Even children can be initiated. Choose an auspicious day, ask them to take bath, let them go to a temple, you can tie a yellow coloured thread in the right wrist, the father or mother or any elder can initiate the child and the child can regularly chant this, a minimum of 11 times and any number of times. </div>
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from Talk delivered by Swami Parmarthananda at Chennai </i></div>
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<i>and translated by Swamini Svatmabodhananda.</i></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-7394559517075076362016-07-15T14:33:00.000+05:302016-07-15T14:33:05.493+05:30RISHIKESH - Holy Place of North India<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi0ewXQ4bohELoCqCPQxmr29dMQc1WLmColn7VlDJTixj1IGIG09j2lAQl4KRjPD3xJXN_K6IOD7Qe4XiNEP6GIl1E84aA00Hlpi9eaJ-1J7Nom3f4ElKOrhq7UnX6D3pkzkDTMZHXXJv/s1600/Rishikesh+view+across+Lakshmana+Jhula+bride+over+the+Ganges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxi0ewXQ4bohELoCqCPQxmr29dMQc1WLmColn7VlDJTixj1IGIG09j2lAQl4KRjPD3xJXN_K6IOD7Qe4XiNEP6GIl1E84aA00Hlpi9eaJ-1J7Nom3f4ElKOrhq7UnX6D3pkzkDTMZHXXJv/s400/Rishikesh+view+across+Lakshmana+Jhula+bride+over+the+Ganges.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rishikesh view across Lakshmana Jhula bride over the Ganges</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRAAY8U5vEd6kvSGUPVC_DSG3ZsbDxTK8jBKyuWkNX_Q8cjMJEgo_eyhtBaeT6_7QzGJts0XtqcrQ-5CyaibRG4WqV7aXthMjpKkKbnTvowozCeUM4Jbnu2bIIcYmM4_-jzQA01X1JCEu/s1600/Neelkanth+Mahadev+Temple%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRAAY8U5vEd6kvSGUPVC_DSG3ZsbDxTK8jBKyuWkNX_Q8cjMJEgo_eyhtBaeT6_7QzGJts0XtqcrQ-5CyaibRG4WqV7aXthMjpKkKbnTvowozCeUM4Jbnu2bIIcYmM4_-jzQA01X1JCEu/s400/Neelkanth+Mahadev+Temple%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_SYHozx29AfMxj8G94dAQ62znP3HvZbrACePtaJoWro9X9VsRELsg8bpwaclvGsqaoG1lfuWZ8WFY8mOdgYv3-gyp5YV7Xix4SOhJ4mpYnP0t3FYx1VLSpSPap3OS-Vc4wdVV8-n6zJB/s1600/laxmanjhula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_SYHozx29AfMxj8G94dAQ62znP3HvZbrACePtaJoWro9X9VsRELsg8bpwaclvGsqaoG1lfuWZ8WFY8mOdgYv3-gyp5YV7Xix4SOhJ4mpYnP0t3FYx1VLSpSPap3OS-Vc4wdVV8-n6zJB/s400/laxmanjhula.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laxman-Jhoola-Jhula Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2swV1xt4R_nbuBsyZEq38ojfv1fEDGzcJmiTuoQ1uI3ukjnYg-JlgSyWA2SgElxW_13BrfAnWhlQrl-P4Y1ckbGKvemn1l1Q1-6N29odjr3RCmNPFJ8eUIVwuVM6-1XodGZkUgKfw7Bwy/s400/Shiva+statue+near+Paramarth+Niketan.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shiva's Statue near Paramath Niketan which was washed away by Flood<br />
during 2013 near River Ganga</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2swV1xt4R_nbuBsyZEq38ojfv1fEDGzcJmiTuoQ1uI3ukjnYg-JlgSyWA2SgElxW_13BrfAnWhlQrl-P4Y1ckbGKvemn1l1Q1-6N29odjr3RCmNPFJ8eUIVwuVM6-1XodGZkUgKfw7Bwy/s1600/Shiva+statue+near+Paramarth+Niketan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2swV1xt4R_nbuBsyZEq38ojfv1fEDGzcJmiTuoQ1uI3ukjnYg-JlgSyWA2SgElxW_13BrfAnWhlQrl-P4Y1ckbGKvemn1l1Q1-6N29odjr3RCmNPFJ8eUIVwuVM6-1XodGZkUgKfw7Bwy/s1600/Shiva+statue+near+Paramarth+Niketan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<h3>
Location</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJYiDvaQR0boKl9Q0lBXtBQItr_E9EgSm6j69zkIXC0ZzxVZ9ICsYiqEHogUINp-WDh-NCWjyQZsZbmzQoPUz1Ec_TQ3QD1Yg8EU1UPKkVsNGSDw4DxGbRLMrMQO6XcF_YqJrapVZlInU/s1600/India+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJYiDvaQR0boKl9Q0lBXtBQItr_E9EgSm6j69zkIXC0ZzxVZ9ICsYiqEHogUINp-WDh-NCWjyQZsZbmzQoPUz1Ec_TQ3QD1Yg8EU1UPKkVsNGSDw4DxGbRLMrMQO6XcF_YqJrapVZlInU/s400/India+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rishikesh, 23 kilometers away from Haridwar, is our next stop. From Haridwar we can take a bus or get a auto-rickshaw from near Bimagoda Kund on the Eastern side of Har-ki-Pauri. With a population of around 75,000, it is a smaller, quitter, and fun place to go. It is a place in which you see the spiritual atmosphere and influence wherever you look. You will find good food, good water, clean air, a pleasant climate, plenty of temples and many wandering sadhus, sages and pilgrims. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_wgfWV5G1cL4D2Rl06O-Dm4D07JDJ6DhefQ3jvBwD_jSS2Y8wQGMxMvmhaluqTs1ivTTzAKAeTC4y2N5egWXNIZCA37F14PydK3ukk-4wtBZEus8z0L4WYEY8pcXpdZXYjgQ0iGj-win/s1600/View_of_Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_wgfWV5G1cL4D2Rl06O-Dm4D07JDJ6DhefQ3jvBwD_jSS2Y8wQGMxMvmhaluqTs1ivTTzAKAeTC4y2N5egWXNIZCA37F14PydK3ukk-4wtBZEus8z0L4WYEY8pcXpdZXYjgQ0iGj-win/s400/View_of_Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Why we call the place as Rishikesh?</h3>
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The town got its name from the time when Lord Hrishikesh, Vishnu, appeared here to grant darshan to Raibhya Rishi when he was performing austerities. The demons Madhu and Kaitabha were also killed here by Lord Vishnu.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HGCThSoHnpDnmHDCMJcy68-D6LoW2CVFtk2SHfMJQyKfdxsq6xyDO9coawdelAmpfwkrIhn7HQpAMGxQtYnPxRjzhu-frzxLvqtqCY6tsFrOMDSgHYPCFP7wlnuLGuEQk7a-eYde9y7T/s1600/View+of+the+Rishikesh+from+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HGCThSoHnpDnmHDCMJcy68-D6LoW2CVFtk2SHfMJQyKfdxsq6xyDO9coawdelAmpfwkrIhn7HQpAMGxQtYnPxRjzhu-frzxLvqtqCY6tsFrOMDSgHYPCFP7wlnuLGuEQk7a-eYde9y7T/s400/View+of+the+Rishikesh+from+Beach.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Rishikesh from Beach</td></tr>
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Legends also mention that the Lord Agni [God of Fire] made penance for Lord Shiva. According to the legends Lord Shiva consumed poison [Halahal] which was obtained during sea churning (Samudra Manthan) along with the Nectar (Amrit). The place is now known as Nilkanth Mahadev Temple. <br />
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Kunid was the first one to rule the area. Later Shak Kings and Naga Kings ruled here. In 1938 Vatsraj was the king of the area. Ajaypal was the king during 1493 to 1500. During the 1804 to 1815 Gorkha Kings rule the whole area. After 1815 East India Company came here. After freedom the area is merged in Uttarpradesh. In November 2000 Uttaranchal became independent from Uttarpradesh. From January 2007 Uttranchal was named as Uttarkhand. </div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Triveni Ghat</h3>
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Triveni Ghat is biggest bathing ghat in Rishikesh. Situated near the main market this ghat has mesmerizing view of mountain and river. The reason for the nature is it is believed that this is conference of 3 rivers Ganges, Yamuna and legendary Saraswati. Due to the conference this ghat is great place to take a bath. Ghat is structure of steps where people can access river for holy bath. </div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Ganga aarti [Ganges Ceremony]</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ218DdIuu09NamUYkUdU7z63Cv6TajMs_zoxhAz4iha0AgafJfga57Rs8IkfAxTnhW8k83DwG25MOhjafmG25JNUTN42ISHvR8-DX8_xvvhKCl2zu93A_pDh66VbNYq_74bJbIDPsjdRr/s1600/Preparation-ongoing-for-the-Maha-Aarti-in-Triveni-Ghat-Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ218DdIuu09NamUYkUdU7z63Cv6TajMs_zoxhAz4iha0AgafJfga57Rs8IkfAxTnhW8k83DwG25MOhjafmG25JNUTN42ISHvR8-DX8_xvvhKCl2zu93A_pDh66VbNYq_74bJbIDPsjdRr/s400/Preparation-ongoing-for-the-Maha-Aarti-in-Triveni-Ghat-Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparation-ongoing-for-the-Maha-Aarti-in-Triveni-Ghat-Rishikesh</td></tr>
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Highly recommended for everyone. Take a holy dip in the Ganges and enjoy Ceremony in evening. In evening beautiful Ceremony [Ganga Aarti] [5 p.m. in winter and 6 p.m. in Summer] is organized at Parmarth Niketan and Triveni Ghat. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prince Charles, Camilla participate in<br />
Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh.</td></tr>
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The Brahmin Pandits [priests] performs Ganges Puja [ritual worship] with Vedic hymns, sound of hands clapping and the drums [tabla]. Hundred of people come to witness this Pooja and offer leaf bowls which are filled with flowers and small oil lamps to the goddess. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Woman-making-hindu-offering-ganges-river-triveni-ghat-Rishikesh-india</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganga aarti</td></tr>
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The small sparkling lights floating lamps, river Ganges and auspicious atmosphere creates such a magnificient view and feeling that can attract anyone to join the prayer even the visitor from outside India who can't understand the vedic songs. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Maa-Ganga-Aarti-Triveni-Ghat-Rishikesh</span></td></tr>
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This is beautiful place to sit right on the bank of the river and view the mountain and river with the company of cool river breeze. Triveni Ghat is situated just 100 meter far from the main market. Small Shanti Mandir is also located near Triveni Ghat.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganga-Aarti-at-Triveni-Ghat-Rishikesh</td></tr>
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One of the main temples is the Bharata temple in the central part of town, dedicated to the deity of Lord Narayana. This temple is only a half kilometre from Triveni Ghat, the main bathing ghat in town.This ghat is said to be where suberranean Yamuna and Sarasvati meet the Ganges. This is also where <b>shraddha</b> ceremonies are made to forefathers, and where the funeral pyres are made. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bharat Temple Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bharat Mandir, Lord Narayana.</td></tr>
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Balaji and Chandramouleeswara Temple</h3>
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North of the Bharata temple beyond the Chandrabhaga River is the Balaji and Chandramouleeswra temple. The architecture is in the South Indian style and it is managed by the Board of the famous Tirupati temple in South India. The Shatrugan temple, dedicated to the younger brother of Lord Rama, is about four-and-a-half kilometres from down town Rishikesh.</div>
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Sivanand or Ram Jhula suspension bridge</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sivananda Jhula Bridge across the Ganges at Muni Ki Reti<br />
built in 1980's close to the Kutir of Swami Sivananda</td></tr>
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One of the nicer places to stay is in the Swargashrama area on the east bank of the Ganges across the Sivanand or Ram Jhula suspension bridge. There are some very pleasant temples, ashramas and guest accommodations here. </div>
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Sivananda Ashram, Divine Life Society</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swamy Sivananda</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sivananda Ashrams_on_the_banks_of_Ganges,_Rishikesh</td></tr>
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The Divine Life Society, or Sivananda Ashrama, is just north of the bridge and offers many facilities for the spiritual aspirants from yoga classes and lectures that anyone can attend, to longer term programmes for which you have to enrol before hand. By the bridge just after crossing it, is a small temple for Ganga Devi. You can watch the evening arati to the Ganges River here every evening around 6 to 7 p.m. </div>
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Parmath temple</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGWaHsRx7UdLYc4a_MIXZJLB6lM3pKuR2OmEaaLV0JJdbq4dGDxvcG_sSk2dnMr_N-e12xLXzPVuTctRelcJ9qwFCQf6QrSTMiJ9w13p_XFZCcLTxy7y0MBzVuuzNsyzr8kF4M3Q7Nogr/s1600/Parmarth-Niketan-Ashram-Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGWaHsRx7UdLYc4a_MIXZJLB6lM3pKuR2OmEaaLV0JJdbq4dGDxvcG_sSk2dnMr_N-e12xLXzPVuTctRelcJ9qwFCQf6QrSTMiJ9w13p_XFZCcLTxy7y0MBzVuuzNsyzr8kF4M3Q7Nogr/s400/Parmarth-Niketan-Ashram-Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parmarth-Niketan-Ashram-Rishikesh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUqr6gQhbWvKmF4fl6JxjcdtPBNArHmKD8zcZu5Sj3RHWP_g8bGdbG-UQ8B3x5PrOXJJrYhIkVx1C90pTX72tOG_Xa5DsuNn3xw00-3sSGNLfgoc1-YOC6yCIiLmsyJSy59LyPqKQS-eW/s1600/Shiva+statue+near+Paramarth+Niketan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUqr6gQhbWvKmF4fl6JxjcdtPBNArHmKD8zcZu5Sj3RHWP_g8bGdbG-UQ8B3x5PrOXJJrYhIkVx1C90pTX72tOG_Xa5DsuNn3xw00-3sSGNLfgoc1-YOC6yCIiLmsyJSy59LyPqKQS-eW/s400/Shiva+statue+near+Paramarth+Niketan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shiva's Statue near Paramath Niketan <br />
which was washed away by Flood <br />
during 2013 near River Ganga </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another nice temple is the Parmath temple. It is near the clock tower and has many diorama exhibits of the different incarnations of Krishna and Puranic legends. It has a lecture hall for Vedic discourse, spoken mostly in Hindi, and a variety of programs are held here attracting many pilgrims. It is headed by Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Maharaja, who is a prominent gurus in the area. It also has a nice central temple with a large deity of Visvarupa, Lord Krishna's universal form, which is one of the few I have seen in India. It also has 300 rooms for pilgrims. The kitchen also provides good and reasonably priced meals for those who sign up for them. They also have their own Ganga puja, which includes many nice devotional bhajans, and is attended by many people.</div>
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<h3>
International Vishwaguru Yoga Vedanta Academy</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9eyjpcTY6AqWUw1FvlXVEHZ6eqKJXX-NI0JSNNZGoqu0vvhSVbeDhEQ_4PgVnftE6ou0KmI-6DAqHr9pgdy0lTU7v0Y96Kas8F2kmNtHcoAwbexeq9jt605dKS_tuXqG7nDNnOyAs6Jd/s1600/ved-niketan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX9eyjpcTY6AqWUw1FvlXVEHZ6eqKJXX-NI0JSNNZGoqu0vvhSVbeDhEQ_4PgVnftE6ou0KmI-6DAqHr9pgdy0lTU7v0Y96Kas8F2kmNtHcoAwbexeq9jt605dKS_tuXqG7nDNnOyAs6Jd/s400/ved-niketan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sri Ved Niketan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Beyond the Parmath temple going downstream along the Ganga you can find the International Vishwaguru Yoga Vedanta Academy or the Sri Ved Niketan Dham. It is a two-storey orange and yellow building in a courtyard surrounded by the ashrama room where you can stay. It offers a place for tourists on a low-budget, but also training in the practice of yoga if you are interested. The resident guru is Sri Vishwaguruji Mharaja Mahamandaleshwar, but most of the classes are given by Swami Dharmananda.</div>
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<h3>
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJrkKMtTYcLOHKVZqCSW0JBOsq3pFV2zFbMefmSJVLaWek_dxTK84NVExDoypJj_xIlsXCABy651GXFscWd5LECkN2cs_xbdsf5IvsB5QRMhFp_2hdA6J_tjqPo4VZXsaVDCnpCLLG0PK/s1600/Maharishi+Mahesh+Yogi+Ashram%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJrkKMtTYcLOHKVZqCSW0JBOsq3pFV2zFbMefmSJVLaWek_dxTK84NVExDoypJj_xIlsXCABy651GXFscWd5LECkN2cs_xbdsf5IvsB5QRMhFp_2hdA6J_tjqPo4VZXsaVDCnpCLLG0PK/s400/Maharishi+Mahesh+Yogi+Ashram%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Also in the downstream area is the Maharishi Yogi Ashrama where the Beatles stayed for some time. However, it seems that if you don't have previous arrangements for visiting, the guard at the gate will not let you in. It is mostly for Indian pilgrims these days.</div>
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<h3>
Bhutana Kailashanand Shiva temple</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
High on the side of a hill behind the Swargashrama area is the Bhutana Kailashanand Shiva temple, which has shrines on each of its several floors. You climb up the stairway to see them all, and from where you an get some nice views over the town of Rishikesh. The <b>Tut Walla Baba Ashrama</b> is beyond this temple. </div>
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<br />
<h4>
Sri Tat Walle Baba </h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpf0vmh6NBiBF9KR0psqloh9LqVSQpCk_8RZR8NgB9C9wMJVKo1kyUOw3GLxKMA7iq36nPma09Bz83bIplFHKzmNBfqhGAuTYF8rBdp16e1o2IKXjLETxpSU1B90VnCJdRjAE26sB3sL9X/s1600/Tat.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpf0vmh6NBiBF9KR0psqloh9LqVSQpCk_8RZR8NgB9C9wMJVKo1kyUOw3GLxKMA7iq36nPma09Bz83bIplFHKzmNBfqhGAuTYF8rBdp16e1o2IKXjLETxpSU1B90VnCJdRjAE26sB3sL9X/s400/Tat.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sri Tat Walle Baba </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Continue going up the hill past a large ashrama on the left. After a bit you will come to a small bridge going over a stream, continue another 350 yards, until you see a small stone gravel path on your left. Climb the stone steps to a brick and tin-roofed building. This covers the entrance to a cave. Here Swami Shankardas, a humble bearded sage, gives inform teachings in yoga and meditation.</div>
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<h3>
Swami Dayananda Ashram, Rishikesh</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZ71fYOp1ysl_NrgreriPpWC1e8llsjWlaqaXqjPiZJnZImHsal30BYJChImsiiQPummwroBLa9FEiyxQTZCI5rZipTLTyYRH0YLDBzRZLkfglPhHsZz5LPT_g66WSL_a-D4m42gta3Eg/s1600/Dayanand_Ashram_Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZ71fYOp1ysl_NrgreriPpWC1e8llsjWlaqaXqjPiZJnZImHsal30BYJChImsiiQPummwroBLa9FEiyxQTZCI5rZipTLTyYRH0YLDBzRZLkfglPhHsZz5LPT_g66WSL_a-D4m42gta3Eg/s400/Dayanand_Ashram_Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></h3>
<br />
Dayananda Ashram Rishikesh is situated on the banks of the Holy Ganga, away from the major tourist attractions. It is a unique centre for the study of Vedanta and Sanskrit; unique in the sense that the classes are conducted in English yet the adherence and reverence to the ancient tradition of teaching (Sampradaya) is total.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Temple of Lord Gangadhareswar</h3>
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There is a temple dedicated to Lord Siva as Gangadharesvara facing the Ganga. The main lecture hall also face the Ganga. There is a library with more than 5,000 title on various subjects i.e., Vedanta, Sanskrit Grammar, Indian and Western Philosophies, Religion and Yoga. There is also a Yoga studio where regular Iyengar Yoga camps are conducted.<br />
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<h4>
Daily Schedule - Morning Puja</h4>
5.00 a.m. - 6.00 a.m. - Puja Abhishekam and Alankaram<br />
6.00 a.m. - 6.30 a.m. - Arati and Prasadam<br />
6.30 a.m. - Ganga Puja<br />
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<h4>
After Noon Naivedya - 11.00 a.m.</h4>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
<b>Evening Puja</b></h4>
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<u><b>Winter - October to March</b></u> - <u><b>Summer: April to September</b></u><br />
5.30 p.m. -Ganga Puja - 6.00 p.m. - Ganga Puja<br />
6.00 p.m. -7.15 p.m.- Arati & Prasadam - 6.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m. - Aarti & Prasadam<br />
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<b><u>Monthly Pujas</u></b><br />
<br />
1. Pradosha Puja or Trayodashi Puja of Lord Gangadhareswar<br />
[every 13th Monday]<br />
2. Sankata Chaturthi Puja of Lord Mahaganapati [4th Monday of Krsnapaksha]<br />
3. Masa Shivaratri, Chaturdashi Puja of Jyotirlingam<br />
[14th Monday of Krisnapaksha]<br />
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The ashram was established during the 1960s by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, who is an internationally recognized teacher of Vedanta and foremost scholar of Sanskrit. Swamiji and his disciples conduct regular residential courses at the ashram with the focus on Bhagavad Gita and ten principal Upanishads as commented upon by Adi Shankaracharya. These and selected ancillary texts are analysed and taught along with Sanskrit Grammar in the Paninian style. Vedic chanting is also taught during courses.<br />
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In addition, throughout the year, a resident acharya holds daily courses on the Upanishads, incorporating analytical examination of Adi Shankaracharya's commentaries.<br />
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Dayananda Ashram is the parent Vedanta Institute of the Arsha Vidya Gurukulam group, established by Swmi Dayananda, known as Arsha Vidya Pitham it means a centre of learning based on the teaching of the ancient rishis.<br />
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<h3>
Neem Karoli Baba</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkuMLd-02LZXTLKTLiHjsHa323OxYPRcIs7mPsZsLuwCFMtsaLtwb0Tgl4EN3nFRN6xsojtenufC6a_E1c6nGVnhxjcGkiRA6XBSf5KDdmBDDp4pm82vtMx4lJ2MG3dlXz_oa7QUJRkxb/s1600/Neem-Karoli-Baba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkuMLd-02LZXTLKTLiHjsHa323OxYPRcIs7mPsZsLuwCFMtsaLtwb0Tgl4EN3nFRN6xsojtenufC6a_E1c6nGVnhxjcGkiRA6XBSf5KDdmBDDp4pm82vtMx4lJ2MG3dlXz_oa7QUJRkxb/s400/Neem-Karoli-Baba.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neem-Karoli-Baba </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Another ashrama on the way to Rishikesh from Haridwar, just before we get to town, is that of a Neem Karoli Baba. It is located under the forty-foot image of Hanuman. Although there are no accommodations, you can visit.</div>
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<h3>
Omkarananda Ashram, Rishikesh</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-jYvc21FVVg-A2TImfBd0Gi-6ORSSEg8mzqiPK3t4v-9m8En5EOf3DQQbdZGqfQJ-YifhCyqhjZeiDFs-HgFjkm8ZUZ-_TLqNjNMu0iKvqJ5aqIOAUUvXfzua3JwKXfcXfCDn6fcALgJ/s1600/omkarananda-ashram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-jYvc21FVVg-A2TImfBd0Gi-6ORSSEg8mzqiPK3t4v-9m8En5EOf3DQQbdZGqfQJ-YifhCyqhjZeiDFs-HgFjkm8ZUZ-_TLqNjNMu0iKvqJ5aqIOAUUvXfzua3JwKXfcXfCDn6fcALgJ/s400/omkarananda-ashram.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Omkarananda Ashrama near the Rishikesh taxi stand can also provide course in yoga students. Aside by these ashramas are many others that you find out by asking around. So there are plenty of places where you can learn about yoga or the Vedic culture of India. There are also traditional and orthodox schools that are only for the serious minded students, such as Kailash Ashrama, which is a traditional institution strictly for sanyasis in the line of Shankaracharya.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL0r2Iox4_CVeJvUjnJvX0qLRdGy1e5GCqrVlgKDK6TR8ewNlOsHn9mcMw18-JkRB9FsJAehPpjqL_hcpQknJTNOfQtl_bgjg5wnKI5a-ZpIfce6iqhMVb08tg6VutkeIqgsR5DWVWMyi/s1600/Kailash_Ashram%252C_Muni_Ki_Reti%252C_Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL0r2Iox4_CVeJvUjnJvX0qLRdGy1e5GCqrVlgKDK6TR8ewNlOsHn9mcMw18-JkRB9FsJAehPpjqL_hcpQknJTNOfQtl_bgjg5wnKI5a-ZpIfce6iqhMVb08tg6VutkeIqgsR5DWVWMyi/s400/Kailash_Ashram%252C_Muni_Ki_Reti%252C_Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kailash Ashram, Rishikesh.</td></tr>
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<h3>
Beaches in Rishikesh</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixR1Fbj9jBF9oVKI4Ff-WCd6HwLZW1jgExdk3o_XGLcS3vhC4wx0iDmOthpzW2e3wp0XQROa0JSbWfn3EGhe52OxH6Bl8pcYRi698J8JQ95-DdLXFaVgv4sKU4-pQK2vcJiueTC-tSlWYd/s1600/Beaches_in_rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixR1Fbj9jBF9oVKI4Ff-WCd6HwLZW1jgExdk3o_XGLcS3vhC4wx0iDmOthpzW2e3wp0XQROa0JSbWfn3EGhe52OxH6Bl8pcYRi698J8JQ95-DdLXFaVgv4sKU4-pQK2vcJiueTC-tSlWYd/s400/Beaches_in_rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaches in Rishikesh</td></tr>
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The area around Ganges River has got some nice <b>sandy beaches for swims </b>in the cold river. Large builders are scattered along the shore on which you can sit and be warmed by the sun, to sit in meditation in the evening, which many people do. It can be very mystical experience to sit near the flowing Ganges in these Himalayan foothills, under the stars and moon, especially as you see other sages also meditating in the twilight. <br />
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<h3>
Rafting in Rishikesh</h3>
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Brahmapuri, Shivpuri and Kaudiyala are small villages from where people can start their rafting to Rishikesh. Small rafting can be done from Brahmapuri [11 kms.]. 18 Kms. rafting can be done from Shivpuri and 25 kms long rafting can be done from kaudiyala. During monsoon, rafting is not possible due to heavy rain. October to June is general season for Rafting. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LSspZjd9GF2BldJMKMVqVx6Gf3LLi-qxaqsEQ7eFhs5roAOYXpfcve8iIxIkqJnfUOOK_pqkFUhFe3Uxcs_5T8OUqHuuwLfab-i_rTPYD4J2X7_eGgzHadjKWd7kR_e2rGlGpXgSezWr/s1600/River_rafting_at_Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LSspZjd9GF2BldJMKMVqVx6Gf3LLi-qxaqsEQ7eFhs5roAOYXpfcve8iIxIkqJnfUOOK_pqkFUhFe3Uxcs_5T8OUqHuuwLfab-i_rTPYD4J2X7_eGgzHadjKWd7kR_e2rGlGpXgSezWr/s400/River_rafting_at_Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River rafting at Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<h3>
Chotiwala Restaurant</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xzqK_5ypge1VCMhdFNUQnBzBRZrZ9OM3m6Paw2heJiP620Q6uSNdqozV-darcvmD6qCMlKYpois1QUcapeSjiW8XBtq1ouG17T1Zsgz811an3JUbhEjkmf25XH8Zhqfts_dTpJgqCJ-X/s1600/chotiwala+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xzqK_5ypge1VCMhdFNUQnBzBRZrZ9OM3m6Paw2heJiP620Q6uSNdqozV-darcvmD6qCMlKYpois1QUcapeSjiW8XBtq1ouG17T1Zsgz811an3JUbhEjkmf25XH8Zhqfts_dTpJgqCJ-X/s400/chotiwala+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chotiwala Restaurant, Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGCJQH8_0I-R6xDSasgq6K-lwycjqBTFaOvVGCWmDc-l84rO3JJeIGrFL-NixlS9Bu36gSuqLLt936Y0TA2MmgtEj1gVNULe0hX4Uc5v0wA2sJDgG4-YWrfTR6xofJhCgFHl7RfFy7afD/s1600/chotiwala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGCJQH8_0I-R6xDSasgq6K-lwycjqBTFaOvVGCWmDc-l84rO3JJeIGrFL-NixlS9Bu36gSuqLLt936Y0TA2MmgtEj1gVNULe0hX4Uc5v0wA2sJDgG4-YWrfTR6xofJhCgFHl7RfFy7afD/s400/chotiwala.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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There are also lots of nearby woods that you can walk through, past ashramas and residencies of the local monks and renunciant. And the days are warm and nights are cool. The best place to eat is the open air Chotiwala Restaurant. However, it may be really crowded around moon, so nearby restaurants are also good. Wandering cows will walk by looking for a little food. You can see the children on the bridge throwing bits of food into the river feeding the schools of larger fish, which you can see when the water is clear. <br />
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<h3>
Chit chat at bank of River Ganga, Rishikesh</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymAhtfsDCpFig4A_aNf5avMx2mbFfyIR__Aod-NLH-0paBzlIUrnEDxsglMtgsDvxuerwdyOm06SuQSRa-3UJmRA4YhC833F_cL5RGMNm0ljXeGEuH7nmn7Vkb_8QvjpJX2DHaOihS2bT/s1600/Chitchat_at_bank_of_River_Ganga_at_Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymAhtfsDCpFig4A_aNf5avMx2mbFfyIR__Aod-NLH-0paBzlIUrnEDxsglMtgsDvxuerwdyOm06SuQSRa-3UJmRA4YhC833F_cL5RGMNm0ljXeGEuH7nmn7Vkb_8QvjpJX2DHaOihS2bT/s400/Chitchat_at_bank_of_River_Ganga_at_Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chit chat at bank of River Ganga, Rishikesh</td></tr>
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There are rows of holy beggars along some of the lanes, and foreigners and tourists are quite common. In the evening you can see some of the wandering mendicants who make a little cooking fire after they have taken whatever money they have received from their begging and purchased vegetables to cook for their meals. Later, they will be rolled up in their cloth bedding to take rest for the night along the Ganges or on the steps near the temples or shops. You can also walk along and see old sadhus in their rooms near the Ganges around Ved Niketan, may be visiting on their small bed, with pictures of the deities on the wall, a few clothes hanging on a line, while they chant or read sacred books. Some of these old sages live permanently in Rishkesh, while others stay for a short while before continuing up into the mountains or elsewhere.</div>
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<h3>
Ram Jhula </h3>
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Suspension bridge similar to the Lakshman Jhula between Sivananda Ashram and Swarg Ashram is known as Ram Jhula or Sivananda Jhula. Boat is also available here on sharing basis to cross the river. So many shops are available on the both side of bridge for shopping. Sivananda Ashram, Yoga Niketan Ashram and Omkarananda Ashram is located at one end of the bridge and the other end has Swarg Ashram, Gita Bhawan and Parmath Niketan Ashram. Ram Jhula is pedestrian bridge but it is also used for bikes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC-vYOdylyzagln_tQUp4Yotr-Y-yOKFufago5ALVxHoAs-yptiGWUoVtClTfvgk0eU0AmyVgHBayJebKTm5RrWuiRRYIs6mPjPRMXak9d4tXsM5yoIOB2BCV8ccW_UHtsNu9qo3VIu2f/s1600/Ram+Jhula%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC-vYOdylyzagln_tQUp4Yotr-Y-yOKFufago5ALVxHoAs-yptiGWUoVtClTfvgk0eU0AmyVgHBayJebKTm5RrWuiRRYIs6mPjPRMXak9d4tXsM5yoIOB2BCV8ccW_UHtsNu9qo3VIu2f/s400/Ram+Jhula%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ram Jhula, Rishikesh</td></tr>
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<h3>
Lakshmana Jhula</h3>
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Big iron suspension bridge on the river Ganges which is 4.5 kms far from Rishikesh. It is believed that Lakshman [brother of Lord Ram] crossed the river here by jute rope. Current bridge is built in 1929 in when the old bridge (1989 built) was damaged in flood. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlRKuK0-auJBd8UMmwaF3i7EyycYScJEwIKhT7VLRvPdmmWGXZItEqo11AvlKq66HzP4_gTNrvuVBclCkhmhQEbKmnFKKhs5p8OOP6D7cWh7DHVvKecI5cHbsMmSSNetheCCxiWFrqXcz/s1600/Rishikesh+view+across+Lakshmana+Jhula+bride+over+the+Ganges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlRKuK0-auJBd8UMmwaF3i7EyycYScJEwIKhT7VLRvPdmmWGXZItEqo11AvlKq66HzP4_gTNrvuVBclCkhmhQEbKmnFKKhs5p8OOP6D7cWh7DHVvKecI5cHbsMmSSNetheCCxiWFrqXcz/s400/Rishikesh+view+across+Lakshmana+Jhula+bride+over+the+Ganges.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Rishikesh view across Lakshmana Jhula bride over the Ganges</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRIFdyXtjymYaTlEyUzaJ595krTglcW_g8vBPQvxamF7oh_pPqawJZ9u47x-ZiwR3GbZ01uz11DKW7L2-iNKhbiHjgYXs1IrTzuB5nVN-tgtExZybYMRccjJCKD-FdLV3DpHH98efQUJj/s1600/Laxman-Jhoola-Jhula+Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRIFdyXtjymYaTlEyUzaJ595krTglcW_g8vBPQvxamF7oh_pPqawJZ9u47x-ZiwR3GbZ01uz11DKW7L2-iNKhbiHjgYXs1IrTzuB5nVN-tgtExZybYMRccjJCKD-FdLV3DpHH98efQUJj/s400/Laxman-Jhoola-Jhula+Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laxman-Jhoola-Jhula Rishikesh</td></tr>
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Lakshman Jhula is popular in tourist for shopping and other activities such as rafting. Both sides of the bride has so many different shops with interesting things to buy. Lakshman temple and Tera Manzil Temple is also situated here. From the bridge you can have spectacular view of river and the city. Lakshman Jhula is pedestrain bridge but it is also used for bikes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8cqqoGRcFgk-gZsif9o7yLVSOKQSX_bYEsI0EN7yYO8XE5p1cN7j4YhTAZcJvFb28E2EeYjmYzIMPT852SDiKrZ3vS55K7u18jOyQ3xIjyOlvpvLWOisemHhl_RyrGJ_EF8rZV64RAJK/s1600/laxmanjhula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8cqqoGRcFgk-gZsif9o7yLVSOKQSX_bYEsI0EN7yYO8XE5p1cN7j4YhTAZcJvFb28E2EeYjmYzIMPT852SDiKrZ3vS55K7u18jOyQ3xIjyOlvpvLWOisemHhl_RyrGJ_EF8rZV64RAJK/s400/laxmanjhula.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lakshmann Jhula Rishikesh</td></tr>
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The Lakshmana Jhula area is only three kilometers upstream from Rishikesh, a pleasant walk away. This is where Lord Rama's brother, Lakshmana, performed penance, commemorated by the Lakshmana temple. And Rishi Kund is said to be where Lord Rama and Lakshmana took bath to purify themselves after killing the demon Ravana, who was also a brahmana. There are some small old temples as well as large modern ones in this area. Also, you will not want to miss the seven storied temple with diorama exhibits.</div>
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<h3>
Neel Kandha Mahadev Temple</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnppL_n6hlSsQzh4Y6AqQOrMkXNyZaTzv6PUpHutZj0UsLPaITNOBqksgJqZ98-NVIXSWuSUFdjCExIzepasTHco_-NsvilSlXewbEM2UPMI3F323NRi5LWCyxcepdbQHLv7cHrFISo6X/s1600/Neelkanth+Mahadev+Temple%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnppL_n6hlSsQzh4Y6AqQOrMkXNyZaTzv6PUpHutZj0UsLPaITNOBqksgJqZ98-NVIXSWuSUFdjCExIzepasTHco_-NsvilSlXewbEM2UPMI3F323NRi5LWCyxcepdbQHLv7cHrFISo6X/s400/Neelkanth+Mahadev+Temple%252C+Rishikesh.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh</td></tr>
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Up in the hills about 12 kilometers away from the Lakshmana Jhula bridge is the Neela Kandha Mahadeva temple. It's a four hour walk or a jeep ride up the hill. This is where Lord Shiva is supposed to have meditated after swallowing the poison that was manifested when the demigods and demons churned the ocean of milk in pursuit of the nectar that gave immortality.</div>
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So there is a lot to see and be a part of the Rishikesh area that is certainly a part of the traditional culture of India.</div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book "Spiritual India Handbook" by Sephen Knapp</i></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i>~~~~~</div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-74212084219965495912016-06-30T13:42:00.000+05:302016-06-30T13:42:56.367+05:30Haridwar - Holy Place in North India <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2gmWqYFOMQerCcH4kdQ82oWS2Wktt6xHOY0tKp88bnWpQ-j38U9cB8P_LClGtmkdnqhoOwyLQoG-fo-ej5mlbJA5ieurPkZidt57bv9kf3EblNpAoUoN5f70Go-Ruy07O7WBw93BGiove/s1600/Evening_view_of_Har-ki-Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2gmWqYFOMQerCcH4kdQ82oWS2Wktt6xHOY0tKp88bnWpQ-j38U9cB8P_LClGtmkdnqhoOwyLQoG-fo-ej5mlbJA5ieurPkZidt57bv9kf3EblNpAoUoN5f70Go-Ruy07O7WBw93BGiove/s400/Evening_view_of_Har-ki-Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evening_view_of_Har-ki-Pauri,_Haridwar</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzE_dTxcRAQNXe0HE6Mqmps_EixFgyPOEaUaiKmr0h9Di-u1mF1BXXYwGtuk1gbA2jnLBWueQ6pJXCaLUFk7GRXAzHp0in4BKLw1UFqLlvHkXW_LlOmx2ae9nh02TNYdQ6DGxHz5o3SPPx/s1600/Holy+Ganga_river_at_haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzE_dTxcRAQNXe0HE6Mqmps_EixFgyPOEaUaiKmr0h9Di-u1mF1BXXYwGtuk1gbA2jnLBWueQ6pJXCaLUFk7GRXAzHp0in4BKLw1UFqLlvHkXW_LlOmx2ae9nh02TNYdQ6DGxHz5o3SPPx/s400/Holy+Ganga_river_at_haridwar.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy Ganga River having great gathering for Holy bath in Haridwar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wzADy2nGOMCr3tcFl1jF9jtrKLSoSZe9UylQcq9vQUBJLcbeEejBmOUvD1pBO57vRoDvWqH-FpDjMMpbuRP1U7NebETVJNMDU1za__Ed7RrIN4nXlxI1AG35f-0JCLMJ0lkMJi_trV1o/s1600/Mansa_Devi_Temple%252C_Haridwar_06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wzADy2nGOMCr3tcFl1jF9jtrKLSoSZe9UylQcq9vQUBJLcbeEejBmOUvD1pBO57vRoDvWqH-FpDjMMpbuRP1U7NebETVJNMDU1za__Ed7RrIN4nXlxI1AG35f-0JCLMJ0lkMJi_trV1o/s400/Mansa_Devi_Temple%252C_Haridwar_06.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manasa Devi Temple</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5yNpFOlrGWymQiJMh78hL9rxz6Qabop8atHnx4WmYAxs4JPZc8tMygSJI79_ZZK8a_X_36zGZp1ExynHMHj61WX39k-HvmmkE1qzu132ROa0zymJ3w259wMVhoqXcQ5U0WvBdPGQ1IfS/s1600/Ganga+River+at+Haridwar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5yNpFOlrGWymQiJMh78hL9rxz6Qabop8atHnx4WmYAxs4JPZc8tMygSJI79_ZZK8a_X_36zGZp1ExynHMHj61WX39k-HvmmkE1qzu132ROa0zymJ3w259wMVhoqXcQ5U0WvBdPGQ1IfS/s400/Ganga+River+at+Haridwar.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganga River at Haridwar</td></tr>
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<h3>
Location</h3>
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Haridwar, population 1,90,000, 225 kilometers northeast of Delhi, is easily reached by bus from New Delhi or Shukratal. Or, if visiting Vrindavana, you can get an overnight bus straight from Vrindavana to Haridwar.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsrnFSrIINlGlQAUi8lixAQzxgftGP3acNJrjfIPxHg-yhmFrWxYM0K6gmREkcQadYSNSBxcGq_yb-MQfT_W7sQGNG1V9xLGMk4KT-X2CgQgfM-YBZAcZzsAyZl_SE1X3EmGlSrnaGyXp/s1600/Lord+Shiva+statue+near+Ganges+in+Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsrnFSrIINlGlQAUi8lixAQzxgftGP3acNJrjfIPxHg-yhmFrWxYM0K6gmREkcQadYSNSBxcGq_yb-MQfT_W7sQGNG1V9xLGMk4KT-X2CgQgfM-YBZAcZzsAyZl_SE1X3EmGlSrnaGyXp/s400/Lord+Shiva+statue+near+Ganges+in+Haridwar.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lord Shiva's statue near Haridwar</td></tr>
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"Haridwar" means the door to Hari, the Supreme Lord Sri Vishnu. It is also known as Hardwar for its relation to Lord Shiva. It sits on the banks of Ganga River, known as Mother Ganga. Many years ago it used to be called Kapilsthan beause Kapila Muni had lived, meditated and performed penance here. Hardiwar is also known for being where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. This is the reason Haridwar also has the name of Ganga-dwara. </div>
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It is one of the major holy places of India and has plenty of spiritual significance. This is where Vidura was instructed by Maitreya, Daksha performed his great sacrifice near Kankhal, which was attended by all the great demigods. It is about four kilometers south of the railway station. The Dakeswara (or Dakshaprajapati) Mahadeva Shiva temple at Kankhal, the oldest temple in Haridwar, marks the place and commemorates Lord Shiva coming to help his wife, Sati. The contemporary temple was built in 1962. The central image in the temple is a Shiva Linga, The little pit in the Daksha Mahadeva Mandir is said to be where Daksha had his original sacrificial fire.</div>
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<h3>
Sati Kund</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdrHl5a9PSNxCFyEmXTeZUOiK0Ri2ScAfjn-Z_GxatROEdrIMRc4-marB69N2u7u8_zmcP04YnD4YrchOD6a9vlG9ZjdX3LFf-xkKpwUkY4JohWC4C5N2OhGmW-Q6eMwtnD4O5rtp6Abp7/s1600/Sati-Kund-Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdrHl5a9PSNxCFyEmXTeZUOiK0Ri2ScAfjn-Z_GxatROEdrIMRc4-marB69N2u7u8_zmcP04YnD4YrchOD6a9vlG9ZjdX3LFf-xkKpwUkY4JohWC4C5N2OhGmW-Q6eMwtnD4O5rtp6Abp7/s400/Sati-Kund-Haridwar.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sati Kund, on Kankhal Jwalpur Road is one of the oldest of the significant places in Haridwar and marks the spot where Sati (Durga) left her body and where she burned herself after being insulted by her father, all of which is described in the Srimad Bhagawatam. Lord Nityananda also stopped here on His tour 500 years go. However, the kund is in the middle of nowhere on the road and not developed in any way. It is overgrown with greenery and water lilies and can easily be overlooked.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKmTWX5XOxv0LU7-NcfHRr0bBYba32w3gjxuXxLQC5mRfSCXV3i3VVn8tpi8A8VvOXLkVG0_-nx8altrG8Lgr3EkBPSbej1jScYQKHtRxPC0K3ZetRbwPlo6UsXefM4Yc-TnuTgZQQFfc/s1600/sati-kund.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKmTWX5XOxv0LU7-NcfHRr0bBYba32w3gjxuXxLQC5mRfSCXV3i3VVn8tpi8A8VvOXLkVG0_-nx8altrG8Lgr3EkBPSbej1jScYQKHtRxPC0K3ZetRbwPlo6UsXefM4Yc-TnuTgZQQFfc/s400/sati-kund.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Legend</h3>
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To explain the legend in brief, Durga's father Daksha, son of Brahma, did not like Durga's husband, Shiva. So when Daksha had his huge ritual, he did not want Shiva to be there. When Daksha had entered the arena, all sages stood in respect except Brahma and Shiva, which offended Daksha. So Daksha cursed Shiva to not partake in the rituals. Thereafter, Daksha and Shiva both left the arena.</div>
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Afterwards, Daksha did not invite Shiva to the ritual, but Durga still wanted to go, even against the advice of Shiva. After arriving, she underwent insults by her father, Daksha, toward her because of being married to Shiva. So she self-immolated herself in fire, thus committing Sati. After Shiva heard about this, he became extremely angry and created a sent a huge black demon, Virabhadra, and his followers to fight and destroy Daksha's ritual. He also cut off Daksha's head and threw it into the fire. When Shiva came and gathered Sati's body, he was grief stricken and carried her body wherever he went. To relieve Shiva's grief, Lord Vishnu cut Sati's body into pieces with His chakra and wherever they dropped became Shati-peeths, or places of power where people go to worship Shakti, or Durga. The Daksh Mahadeva Mandir is said to mark the place where the fire of Daksha's Vedic ritual was located.</div>
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Manasa Devi Temple</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKIfpX7Smuc_-aPfi8p_yVEN-yBOC5kchdxL2nHv6bdibqlsLJl58s6bFjFeNdQZrWEDm1cojZOuLC98WkQYAcS43PYA-vtdl0IfffAdU5ZwcUNdPoS_3fR4nBgwJRFwkR0yJ3IxxDxT0/s1600/Panorama_of_Haridwar_City.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKIfpX7Smuc_-aPfi8p_yVEN-yBOC5kchdxL2nHv6bdibqlsLJl58s6bFjFeNdQZrWEDm1cojZOuLC98WkQYAcS43PYA-vtdl0IfffAdU5ZwcUNdPoS_3fR4nBgwJRFwkR0yJ3IxxDxT0/s400/Panorama_of_Haridwar_City.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panorama view of Haridwar City from Manasa Devi Temple</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9zS0JjEq_9dgAYIzGfnDU3Y_k0fP5abGHL54uj6rnzvmVt-_VEzRTPH5hM9QHmO-ZbRrczuq28ePF6xCEbNb0gURUrBzlfWVFr31_K6ePpG4FUPOZGsIruKTR0Jp3NO8bryhMOQdyqmU/s1600/mansa-devi-temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9zS0JjEq_9dgAYIzGfnDU3Y_k0fP5abGHL54uj6rnzvmVt-_VEzRTPH5hM9QHmO-ZbRrczuq28ePF6xCEbNb0gURUrBzlfWVFr31_K6ePpG4FUPOZGsIruKTR0Jp3NO8bryhMOQdyqmU/s400/mansa-devi-temple.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Gh2nCQr2SbwVqFqFT2ra838j3ciEo9Ca53WQIzJdWkXkLN1E6xm5Ms6a0nVjKQUTWKNyEdcKjn5tjtmpS8hnduJB03a9LszZtCfKRFke1qTCsdKdtlVWpGW-tVZXYSNxCK0nWXSdMYPo/s1600/ropeway+mansadevi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Gh2nCQr2SbwVqFqFT2ra838j3ciEo9Ca53WQIzJdWkXkLN1E6xm5Ms6a0nVjKQUTWKNyEdcKjn5tjtmpS8hnduJB03a9LszZtCfKRFke1qTCsdKdtlVWpGW-tVZXYSNxCK0nWXSdMYPo/s400/ropeway+mansadevi.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rope way to Manasa Devi Temple at Haridwar</td></tr>
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Haridwar is known for its many temples, more of which are always being built. One popular temple is the Manasa Devi temple, another form of Durga, located on the hill above the city. You can walk up the hill or take a cable car which gives you a way to get a great view of the city and mountains and plains that surround it. The deity in the temple is small, but the temple is organized and often crowded.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjAfCj58bubQbH7sdhgHxswONHZv8Y6_eK0njfMcd_EGlizmk2Kj8GfNDzODDw8VYcphT1ESYAsqc1z3hs2nG2K77OCQdhMXnGd3D2SWPtBZO7s9SlMrM8bc7v-haD_jWOnXeu5dnec31/s1600/Mansa_Devi_Temple%252C_Haridwar_06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjAfCj58bubQbH7sdhgHxswONHZv8Y6_eK0njfMcd_EGlizmk2Kj8GfNDzODDw8VYcphT1ESYAsqc1z3hs2nG2K77OCQdhMXnGd3D2SWPtBZO7s9SlMrM8bc7v-haD_jWOnXeu5dnec31/s400/Mansa_Devi_Temple%252C_Haridwar_06.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manasa Devi Temple, Haridwar.</td></tr>
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Chandi Devi, Hanuman temple, Hanuman's mother Anjani Devi temples</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nM1bxhyphenhyphenzWa4f7wqDTNV6qnkn_Q7L2W5ka1Y3ytpDYSzDjoudQm8oXoVGO0WpsVdN-R4IloZBHq_YbDlzoZyuI0U2LhVc9VVGSc9ZklO6yCO7GxSlOYY8rcelVBtxeOIByRitP3Y6zMX6/s1600/Chandidevi_temple5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nM1bxhyphenhyphenzWa4f7wqDTNV6qnkn_Q7L2W5ka1Y3ytpDYSzDjoudQm8oXoVGO0WpsVdN-R4IloZBHq_YbDlzoZyuI0U2LhVc9VVGSc9ZklO6yCO7GxSlOYY8rcelVBtxeOIByRitP3Y6zMX6/s400/Chandidevi_temple5.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandidevi_temple, Haridwar.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8-eh9vXgu90HkKwArqLcRDORIs6vi4S5BDfpLmjzeldVSW57cjrdmGSVmuhSjuRDqhzwcXXUFK7SnX21u1KPEZuPBu9Y1ehpOdTnf66tQxKMgaJGQsYrop3lLtBR32NUGnfiJLHk334N/s1600/Hanuman+Temple+at+Haridwar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8-eh9vXgu90HkKwArqLcRDORIs6vi4S5BDfpLmjzeldVSW57cjrdmGSVmuhSjuRDqhzwcXXUFK7SnX21u1KPEZuPBu9Y1ehpOdTnf66tQxKMgaJGQsYrop3lLtBR32NUGnfiJLHk334N/s400/Hanuman+Temple+at+Haridwar.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanuman Temple at Haridwar</td></tr>
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Other holy temples in Hardiwar include the Chandi Devi, Hanuman and temple to Hanuman's mother, Anjani Devi, on top of the Siwalik Hills about four-and-a-half kilomters away, an south of the river. You can easily see it from the Ganga. You can also reach this hill top temple by means of a cable car. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkcy1WTehBUl5F6jdzmYSfvZbtQJFkAe-HpRUeSHlzl-U5RCQka7M17b46obfeHZq_I-qSaLCWVoqJ3g-sRYDL1g5qn4C72-4oRVIL7Y2vgO1h2VHer3MtI55RzyAh2IX7wVUH5-WQBOD/s1600/Maya+Devi+Temple+at+Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkcy1WTehBUl5F6jdzmYSfvZbtQJFkAe-HpRUeSHlzl-U5RCQka7M17b46obfeHZq_I-qSaLCWVoqJ3g-sRYDL1g5qn4C72-4oRVIL7Y2vgO1h2VHer3MtI55RzyAh2IX7wVUH5-WQBOD/s400/Maya+Devi+Temple+at+Haridwar.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maya Devi Temple at Haridwar</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmb8ni2xy87iYQJLBnwAH2MtZsskbdEqpz351iNmjOMsyyxQk6xh8WwAbNlOh17NhpuKpv9hD_uWwyKMhHimYgcdFa85SH6SlgcBdidW3e12AP2P9oaBw_cFdw6sK4At52K9nKRcikkZLf/s1600/maya-devi-temple-haridwar+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmb8ni2xy87iYQJLBnwAH2MtZsskbdEqpz351iNmjOMsyyxQk6xh8WwAbNlOh17NhpuKpv9hD_uWwyKMhHimYgcdFa85SH6SlgcBdidW3e12AP2P9oaBw_cFdw6sK4At52K9nKRcikkZLf/s400/maya-devi-temple-haridwar+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maya Devi Temple at Haridwar</td></tr>
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Also, the Narayana-shila, Bhairava, and the Mayadevi temple is one of the oldest in Haridwar. The Mayadevi deity is a three-headed, four-armed female in the act of killing a prostrated demon. Other temples in Haridwar include the Shraannath Mahadeva temple is where Parvati performed austerities to get Lord Shia as her husband. She ate only leaves of the Bilva trees, which are still respectd here for the part they played in this pastime. Not far away is a temple marking the place where the Ganges originally appeared in order to supply water for Parvati to drink.</div>
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<h3>
Bharata Mata (Mother India) Mandir</h3>
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Another more modern temple in Haridwar is the Bharata Mata (Mother India) Mandir. It was consecrated in 1983 and stands eight stories tall. The first floor contains a standing image of Bharata Mata and a map of India on a raised platform. The second floor contains the Shrine of Heroes, dedicated to those who were active in India's independence movement, such as Bhagat Singh and Shivaji. The third floor is dedicated to great women of India's legends and recent history. The fourth floor is the shrine of Indian saints from various religions. The fifth floor is the assembly hall. The sixth floor contains the Shakti Shrine with various images of the goddess. The seventh floor is dedicated to Lord Vishnu with many examples of His forms. And the eighth floor is the Shiva Shrine with many images of Shiva and various gods and goddesses associated with him.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBbXQRN9Dsp_etbe_SG1hWhzDrlwV5BJZ5qm1XkNEXqMLxcmb1DW9ipeNLNRBFnyKSES3cCnBg1BBEcqxpGOj52ugiTLt5S3bnh6k0EFiBlQjQRc1KVQ-5oNHHtUILo4upW-WOtsfGTcW/s1600/Bharat+Mata+Mandir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBbXQRN9Dsp_etbe_SG1hWhzDrlwV5BJZ5qm1XkNEXqMLxcmb1DW9ipeNLNRBFnyKSES3cCnBg1BBEcqxpGOj52ugiTLt5S3bnh6k0EFiBlQjQRc1KVQ-5oNHHtUILo4upW-WOtsfGTcW/s400/Bharat+Mata+Mandir.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Bharata Mata Mandir</span></td></tr>
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This temple is located along a road in the eastern part of Hardiwar. The Road has numerous temples that one can visit, several of which have diorama displays which are quite popular with the pilgrims. There is one that is a replica on the VAishno Devi temple and has a route that you take in which you must cross water, crawl through caves and narrow passages before you finally reach the sanctum. Visiting it is said to equal the same merit as going to the real Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu. There is also a temple of mirrors nearby which has many deities with mirrors thrones and Krishna and Arjuna on a chariot with horses, all made of colored mirrors.</div>
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Har-ki-Pauri</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtNzuAh1P6w2yqjhbWXGZ_Szk7A8WHePhMbS2DGahiteM12IECCJKpNUtoiE5V2_7TsFh35Am2ZQ6v9jEDR23Bas3fUR4BSa9kCfyVfwFKBrO0Q1qnxa7zQNPs9GNV7u9r9OYWwMhMeuo/s1600/Har.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtNzuAh1P6w2yqjhbWXGZ_Szk7A8WHePhMbS2DGahiteM12IECCJKpNUtoiE5V2_7TsFh35Am2ZQ6v9jEDR23Bas3fUR4BSa9kCfyVfwFKBrO0Q1qnxa7zQNPs9GNV7u9r9OYWwMhMeuo/s400/Har.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock Tower on the Malvia Dip at Har-ki-Pauri, Haridwar.</td></tr>
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One of the holiest places in Haridwar is Har-ki-Pauri, where all pilgrims come to bathe in the water of the Ganga River. Some people believe that this is the location where the celestial waters of the Ganga flow into the river. Therefore, the river is known as the Ganga from this spot onwards. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2LnrldVO2axHj47SyyPrLqQw8i6w-rekxNX-NZBAmBOfTkqGPLRof_sgbGS33fNVFlfOJLRWX7UtHoROK_5TMDt6_vtgIL9mhkxYzJoYES8QT4cgqL9eahs9Uf5vPUJ2XN5rQyLFEDTAK/s1600/harr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2LnrldVO2axHj47SyyPrLqQw8i6w-rekxNX-NZBAmBOfTkqGPLRof_sgbGS33fNVFlfOJLRWX7UtHoROK_5TMDt6_vtgIL9mhkxYzJoYES8QT4cgqL9eahs9Uf5vPUJ2XN5rQyLFEDTAK/s400/harr.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilgrims happily bathing in the Ganga at Har-ki-Pauri</td></tr>
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As the pilgrims bathe, they may hang onto chains or rails in the wall to stable themselves in the swift current. If they get carried away by water, there are also chains hanging from the bridge which they can try to grasp. Otherwise, the water, especially if it is high, can take them downstream a ways before they can reach a point of getting out of the river. The pilgrims come here first to bathe before going on northern pilgrim tour of Char Dhama, the four major places farther north.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHX6JswWEPZuGt-YZ2qlM4MG-VR9Mftco1cPXjHmUNBLBptW4J-RPr9GTJ-Tv3qokyiNDWO26ILyugXjb_E98Qj6UUY8Gy_ADqxQxtufJCZIFpcNnTA4RNGcPcBAijv0pN8lvHKjnNNNMF/s1600/hari-ki-pauri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHX6JswWEPZuGt-YZ2qlM4MG-VR9Mftco1cPXjHmUNBLBptW4J-RPr9GTJ-Tv3qokyiNDWO26ILyugXjb_E98Qj6UUY8Gy_ADqxQxtufJCZIFpcNnTA4RNGcPcBAijv0pN8lvHKjnNNNMF/s400/hari-ki-pauri.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Ganges at Har-ki-Pauri is actually a canal that channels the water to the side of the city. The main branch of the river is very little ways away. Imprints of Lord Vishnu's foot prints are found on a wall under the water here at Har-ki-Pauri. One of the priests can help you find them. There are many little shrines and temples here for Ganga Devi, Haricharan, Vishnu, Shiva, Parvati, and others. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZGc4qCXQss2_FGGFhzJjPsoZ_TwdD0tveTzHCbFfL2SzszrZ-CgcdmFpfO-D4rEWI03RB_QK-TCMsfGf89NaRKfQew_Aq6IRESEbqN4lDkB6z4zIWNdGrAdNwmdL7std3m0ZjNJWObcL/s1600/Panaromic+view+of+Har+ki+Pauri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZGc4qCXQss2_FGGFhzJjPsoZ_TwdD0tveTzHCbFfL2SzszrZ-CgcdmFpfO-D4rEWI03RB_QK-TCMsfGf89NaRKfQew_Aq6IRESEbqN4lDkB6z4zIWNdGrAdNwmdL7std3m0ZjNJWObcL/s400/Panaromic+view+of+Har+ki+Pauri.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panoramic view of Har-ki-Pauri, Haridwar.</td></tr>
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Ganga Arati ceremony</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHq2v4kCCyZ0tAtS_O2wwCDDKsl5mxXDCCkPERE8a0TGwyRJtfOTrYZw6KfDs_IiHL1YSjWcJjwEb1oELkLCGznrM9-CCMT8s4XWUIZ2uRMSwc2QnV1sIoC6129s4WmtPTHvdqeI2RZM36/s1600/evening-ganga-aarti-or-offerings-to-the-holy-ganga-river-har-ki-paudi-g2c91j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHq2v4kCCyZ0tAtS_O2wwCDDKsl5mxXDCCkPERE8a0TGwyRJtfOTrYZw6KfDs_IiHL1YSjWcJjwEb1oELkLCGznrM9-CCMT8s4XWUIZ2uRMSwc2QnV1sIoC6129s4WmtPTHvdqeI2RZM36/s400/evening-ganga-aarti-or-offerings-to-the-holy-ganga-river-har-ki-paudi-g2c91j.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> Every evening around 6.30 p.m. you can see the </span><i style="font-family: "times new roman";">arati </i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">ceremony to the Ganga as the priests offer large ghee lamps to the river while kirtan music goes on with banging hand cymbals and gongs. This is a major event and lots of people turn out to see it. It creates a festive atmosphere every night. Many pilgrims and sadhus ro holy men attend to this. So get your seat at least a couple hours before it starts, or they may also close the bridge to pedestrians so you can't cross. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno-6pyn4acQvhJ13sH4U9QlmvGZF1jZStaFGPJ1AQaaYD9F7N4NlYZFMgttfp19EIC3LbJKjwW6Icbv09W20KFS8DVr-KHnR8VmWTG_gfjnlCNfg2IBLM05wsYZfb8OuOFpBLlSpCnich/s1600/Evening_Aarti_at_Har-ki-Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno-6pyn4acQvhJ13sH4U9QlmvGZF1jZStaFGPJ1AQaaYD9F7N4NlYZFMgttfp19EIC3LbJKjwW6Icbv09W20KFS8DVr-KHnR8VmWTG_gfjnlCNfg2IBLM05wsYZfb8OuOFpBLlSpCnich/s400/Evening_Aarti_at_Har-ki-Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evening Aarti at Har-ki-Pauri, Haridwar</td></tr>
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You can also pay a priest a small sum to assist you in doing your own puja or worship to Mother Ganga. He will gather items and then conduct the ritual while telling you what parts of the prayers and mantras to repeat, as you offer flowers and a ghee lamp or a small leaf boat with flowers and lamp to the Ganga. You can see many pilgrims do this, and some of these small leaf boats can be quite fancy. It is considered most beneficial to do this, especially if you are continuing up into the mountains to see other holy places along the Ganga. </div>
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Ghat</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaP8qlG9u1Ufzal-y-smBk7b92wAeybXL1TtYzWAV0S-wg0Q8xEZJf3etK9_t3pxS-KiLhJt1VNKHbxjgJ9Dk2Juo2DiQCieC-uCQIzMMUnmBtHj274huUkslZzE4mdb2_cFW1aWWCTJxC/s1600/Pilgrims_sitting_at_the_ghats%252C_Har_ki_Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaP8qlG9u1Ufzal-y-smBk7b92wAeybXL1TtYzWAV0S-wg0Q8xEZJf3etK9_t3pxS-KiLhJt1VNKHbxjgJ9Dk2Juo2DiQCieC-uCQIzMMUnmBtHj274huUkslZzE4mdb2_cFW1aWWCTJxC/s400/Pilgrims_sitting_at_the_ghats%252C_Har_ki_Pauri%252C_Haridwar.jpg" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pilgrims sitting at the Ghat, for immersion of ahses.</td></tr>
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The southern end of this <i>ghat</i> is where people pour ashes of their deceased ancestors into the Ganges so their existence becomes purified.</div>
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<h3>
Auspicious Days</h3>
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The most auspicious days to bathe here are the full and new moon days, plus Ekadasis, all solar and lunar eclipses, and the full moon during Kartika (October/November). The first day of Vaisaka (April/May) is also important because this is said to be the date when the Ganges first appeared here, and it also marks the beginning of the Hindu solar year.</div>
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<h3>
Kumbha Mela</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtmcplFLEgYF521S5Nj7J4y1nSb_PpA0lRoapWFVXkk6dXWfmhKoxVNXDMyHwB-p_cdj5SjUS_XYxK5Ti40aqHf3vmyyxLA4SPwf100ett88E0xaUXLCJHcJm4AdxwZQOe93dTtZ6FTLVv/s1600/allahabad-maha-kumbh-mela-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtmcplFLEgYF521S5Nj7J4y1nSb_PpA0lRoapWFVXkk6dXWfmhKoxVNXDMyHwB-p_cdj5SjUS_XYxK5Ti40aqHf3vmyyxLA4SPwf100ett88E0xaUXLCJHcJm4AdxwZQOe93dTtZ6FTLVv/s400/allahabad-maha-kumbh-mela-2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTzpTCw7rSWxdemxFZL4rBauF_gm5fWVToZcIMBOme7kslxJyXQY5mJ8CYy160yS-fFZUMdY98yznYZb7VEPGSE6ADc6IvygCygBJJtb9qLdkU1mngpnREmLivmGtYYf1j8ICRyPsNVIa/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTzpTCw7rSWxdemxFZL4rBauF_gm5fWVToZcIMBOme7kslxJyXQY5mJ8CYy160yS-fFZUMdY98yznYZb7VEPGSE6ADc6IvygCygBJJtb9qLdkU1mngpnREmLivmGtYYf1j8ICRyPsNVIa/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Kumbha Mela is a month-long festival that is very important and marks one of the most auspicious times to bathe here. It is held at Haridwar every twelve years when the planet Jupiter is in Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries. This festival is, indeed, timeless and dates back thousands of years. A previous festival was in April/May of 1998. Over two million people and sages attend this festival in Haridwar. After six yaers, the Ardh Kumbh Mela is held at the six year interval, which is a much smaller festival. Other sacred bathing places include Neel Dhara at the main branch of the Ganges, and Gourikund, which is a small holy well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NIzy-jOSdYAW5AbUFU8dH7vf6Vv_cRV8eJyseStDrg9IAq9QsFNtxs5mGeyY20C_Z14Oj9N7o9DUrhEflDi7KBBUkr1X4Mx0WyEjXKfXoOtBlOO-1vQ3QCEoN_RPxgbsWW6p9z6BfToE/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NIzy-jOSdYAW5AbUFU8dH7vf6Vv_cRV8eJyseStDrg9IAq9QsFNtxs5mGeyY20C_Z14Oj9N7o9DUrhEflDi7KBBUkr1X4Mx0WyEjXKfXoOtBlOO-1vQ3QCEoN_RPxgbsWW6p9z6BfToE/s400/19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8aS5vokiHeJKElj9CZaRt3VD87NwgAbOWKmulRnMku2c6uQGVGEvayoCKkiOGvzFkI6tiO2YCW4RB9kYl8mOO6OFs2KmSBvl-jwe2TB8nRhnLjHrdSDkKyK5JgV1NWIe2n33lWfhlWIv9/s1600/40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8aS5vokiHeJKElj9CZaRt3VD87NwgAbOWKmulRnMku2c6uQGVGEvayoCKkiOGvzFkI6tiO2YCW4RB9kYl8mOO6OFs2KmSBvl-jwe2TB8nRhnLjHrdSDkKyK5JgV1NWIe2n33lWfhlWIv9/s400/40.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaErubDtMqNeXoF2W8IVfxvJKjGwQjoQEvYYYaopCLWIL4_l71-Rd-n83zAne-IHkZSJGvl_6OX9ASrotrjIjk6aqUgtCul_reqtnr4J7mLU1JGYWoMkiAZ8OQ5yiDUMezmuQD1Ngxs1K/s1600/kumbha-mela-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaErubDtMqNeXoF2W8IVfxvJKjGwQjoQEvYYYaopCLWIL4_l71-Rd-n83zAne-IHkZSJGvl_6OX9ASrotrjIjk6aqUgtCul_reqtnr4J7mLU1JGYWoMkiAZ8OQ5yiDUMezmuQD1Ngxs1K/s400/kumbha-mela-2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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To know more details about Kumbha Mela 2013 held at Allahabad, kindly visit the blog as given below:<br />
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http://legacyofwisdom.blogspot.in/2013/01/kumbh-mela-2013.html<br />
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<h3>
Gau Ghat</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gau Ghat at Haridwar.</td></tr>
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Heading south from Har-ki-Pauri along the Ganges we shall reach Gau-Ghat, where it is said that bathers can be purified of sins, even up to the killing and eating of a cow. Vishnu Ghat marks the spot where Lord Vishnu once bathed. About a half kilometer south of Har-ki-Pauri is Kushavarta Ghat, where Dattatreya did penance many years ago by standing on one leg for a thousand years.</div>
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Bhimagoda Kund</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhimagoda Tank</td></tr>
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About half a kilometer upstream from Har-ki-Pauri is Bhimagoda Kund. This is said to have been created by a blow from the knee of Bhima, one of the five Pandavas, when he needed to provide water for his wife and brothers. Nearby is where we will go to get a riksha to Rishikesh, unless we take bus.</div>
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Sapta Rishi Ashram</h3>
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About six km North of Haridwar on the banks of the Ganges is Sapta Rishi Ashram where Ganges divided itself and created seven small islands so it would not displease the Seven Rishis who were meditating there at the time.</div>
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Haridwar is known for having many ashramas and places of study. But if you want to stay at an ashrama to study yoga or Hinduism, Rishikesh is much more pleasant. Haridwar is a nice place to visit to see the temples and holy sites but parts of it are like a typical big, noisy and congested city.</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book "Spiritual India Hand Book" written by Stephen Knapp</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-27766077682035826202016-05-31T16:02:00.000+05:302016-05-31T16:02:15.496+05:30Self-Belief<br />
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When your past results are good and favourable, then this feeling that 'I know I can do it' or self-belief would become so strong that it may even begin to affect your faith. If a few results are unfavourable in the past for certain decisions that you have indulged in, then you take refuge in faith so much that there is no more self-belief in you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV55VsMtDHY9sfh5FbgHWPvl-w18sI_NalMi4HmxckPLqU7VoJx8lR67xPqXuA4ldwBso87IepFNwHI_vZAfJe4T9nNuhZ2T-PQKGBqNVj0qA0Z7u89Q58pFXQRJGnk9TfP8ND-1tZoHdH/s1600/faith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV55VsMtDHY9sfh5FbgHWPvl-w18sI_NalMi4HmxckPLqU7VoJx8lR67xPqXuA4ldwBso87IepFNwHI_vZAfJe4T9nNuhZ2T-PQKGBqNVj0qA0Z7u89Q58pFXQRJGnk9TfP8ND-1tZoHdH/s400/faith.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Faith is in knowing that there is a cosmic system that is acting between your choices and consequences. Choices are the steps that you take that is born out of human intelligence and consequences are born out of the infinite intelligence. For every choice executed we invite a consequence. While we can have control over our choices, we can only have expectations over consequences. which are,</div>
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1] I get more than what I expected, [>]</div>
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2] I get what I expected [=].</div>
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3] I get less than what I expected. [<]</div>
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For example, when I execute the choice of starting a business on my own, the four possible consequences are, [>] The business might turn out to be roaring success, [=] The business return might be up to my expectations, [<] It might go through slump. [X] It can turn out to be an utter failure. Whichever may be the consequence, I can take it as a feedback and still execute another choice.</div>
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So there is a cosmic intervention between the choice and consequences, by whatever name you may want to call it, god or law of karma, which determines the consequences of your life.</div>
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When every choice that you execute expecting something in life, turns out consequences that you expected, or more than what you expected, you start feeling 'Whatever I want is happening'. When this happens repeatedly, it results in a self-belief which is shadowing your faith. You may fail to realize that the cosmic intervention is right now happening in your favour because of certain alignments in your life. Knowingly or unknowingly that karmic actor is working in your favour right now. The favourable results can make the 'I' in you very loud, muffling your faith.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazF9Oir8mcfVSWEATX27-R_gJs5fhyM-8J2LUKDnp2GSxsOhEZgrSLbiQ3J0jOAnH-PVBQOmITSIjdtQp1bKJMcFiEKrHT1jmwbkeCrn3n6ihnAl8jWPAKTwLOyiH7CVExmsukfvRa_jq/s1600/krishna-bhagwat-gita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazF9Oir8mcfVSWEATX27-R_gJs5fhyM-8J2LUKDnp2GSxsOhEZgrSLbiQ3J0jOAnH-PVBQOmITSIjdtQp1bKJMcFiEKrHT1jmwbkeCrn3n6ihnAl8jWPAKTwLOyiH7CVExmsukfvRa_jq/s400/krishna-bhagwat-gita.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This happened to even <b>Arjuna and Krishna</b> had to remind him saying, 'Arjuna, from where are you getting this feeling, that you are doing all these things? The truth is, not a single arrow from that other side has touched you and every arrow from you is producing the results you wanted on the other end. Because of this happening, Arjuna you have started feeling that only you are producing all these results; you are not realizing that, this thumb of yours cannot move without my providential sanction.'</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtsukz0rmczLLqxWLo58VqfusexW7QRnzq7pgO5RvA30UR1fyhDG5mc0gcNDwBaZMIzyyhTaS6QzsrhLII0P8CunpO8Bs6igb7LjRcsaMGg6r2YNvDA0wbaWfY0qkYA4l4wFrdlvgLJoh/s1600/fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtsukz0rmczLLqxWLo58VqfusexW7QRnzq7pgO5RvA30UR1fyhDG5mc0gcNDwBaZMIzyyhTaS6QzsrhLII0P8CunpO8Bs6igb7LjRcsaMGg6r2YNvDA0wbaWfY0qkYA4l4wFrdlvgLJoh/s400/fish.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The other extreme is, if every choice that you have executed has somehow resulted in consequences less than what you expected or completely opposite of what you had expected, you feel like a victim in life. When nothing seems to be working as planned, you understand the helplessness of your finite intelligence and begin to understand the power and the potency of that cosmic intervention. At that point most will run towards faith, hoping that it will alter the circumstances for you. If Krishna could do everything, then Arjuna need not have fired those arrows, isn't it?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGsw2-upf8UcYrdIbs2KLMroUSe-_YEzS_d1Q-BdgqJcrWPQcgUneFSCGmW_MP71MnzpPfnD4nbZRklaVatcv_KcFQoorvacMr0sU3repWgHNHg9_YH5x1UYWKsuQ9HrDhYAImrXqDAVf/s1600/faith+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGsw2-upf8UcYrdIbs2KLMroUSe-_YEzS_d1Q-BdgqJcrWPQcgUneFSCGmW_MP71MnzpPfnD4nbZRklaVatcv_KcFQoorvacMr0sU3repWgHNHg9_YH5x1UYWKsuQ9HrDhYAImrXqDAVf/s400/faith+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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When belief is delivered from the womb of faith, neither self-belief becomes arrogance nor spirituality becomes a refuge. When you realize "Without me God will not, Without God I cannot, God plus me miracles are possible' neither the desperate running towards spirituality will be there nor will there be a haughty tone in your activities. You will understand that 'Divine energy' plus 'my intelligent effort' plus 'my faith in that energy' - a threefold combination produces the desired results.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxc8sFKa00ImYD1PTSaRf0Fq8sy9U4hK-KGxnR5yLcuMq_VLnFez_mGhOk7Sb5R1z5l1UHkRrroe5EaxEGRQNilINo4uNdQCGLZZY0S_XEH98qLCjmnshqrD684CICLqzLZb1iUfRgJQh/s1600/Sadhguru-Ramakrishna-and-Vivekanda-540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxc8sFKa00ImYD1PTSaRf0Fq8sy9U4hK-KGxnR5yLcuMq_VLnFez_mGhOk7Sb5R1z5l1UHkRrroe5EaxEGRQNilINo4uNdQCGLZZY0S_XEH98qLCjmnshqrD684CICLqzLZb1iUfRgJQh/s400/Sadhguru-Ramakrishna-and-Vivekanda-540.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sri Ramakrishna, by himself, wouldn't have cared to take his wisdom to the world. Swami Vivekananda, by himself, couldn't have enlightened the world. Yet, the energy of Shri Ramakrishna plus the efforts of Swami Vivekananda plus the faith Swami Vivekananda had in his Master Shri Ramakrishna - caused a renaissance in the world.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbeLZ_YmvKV3jpaSYBUkYCVHA9mC_HIEH8GEWW4m2eBHUGQZZBJ-K4eE4s8dx2-yTeBJmV7T2sUr6Kv3YY3zlPQV1sqkJSX2s1qDBeJIuC7nhTUnXN8CgNizgjiJRL9UDBh7RJgnrlexA/s1600/shriramadootam-hanuman-balshali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbeLZ_YmvKV3jpaSYBUkYCVHA9mC_HIEH8GEWW4m2eBHUGQZZBJ-K4eE4s8dx2-yTeBJmV7T2sUr6Kv3YY3zlPQV1sqkJSX2s1qDBeJIuC7nhTUnXN8CgNizgjiJRL9UDBh7RJgnrlexA/s400/shriramadootam-hanuman-balshali.jpg" width="342" /></a></div>
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Rama, by himself, could not have traced Sita. Hanuman, by himself, could not have crossed the seas in search of Sita. Yet, the energy of Rama plus the efforts of Hanuman plus the faith Hanuman had in his Lord Rama - caused miraculous possibilities.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXvPl26V_deIDHixGhVRhtHJ4asGeeNKtGq2hAHpPPbzQR6IHA0ClG59b9a0KcRSKyqJx5LZgxkfnkiszeqMnzJEPJW1FBox4DrsjM7_5_pqJMEUMjB9lpCKmNGURgtTT-_uhfnerwMhV/s1600/krsna-and-arjuna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXvPl26V_deIDHixGhVRhtHJ4asGeeNKtGq2hAHpPPbzQR6IHA0ClG59b9a0KcRSKyqJx5LZgxkfnkiszeqMnzJEPJW1FBox4DrsjM7_5_pqJMEUMjB9lpCKmNGURgtTT-_uhfnerwMhV/s400/krsna-and-arjuna.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Krishna, by himself would not have fought the war. Arjuna, by himself, could not have fought the war. Yet, the energy of Krishna plus the efforts of Arjuna plus Arjuna's faith in his Bhagwan Krishna - was an absolute winning combination.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lZ9CvmnCSivTQr5ROBQiAnBRU2-tLTqh7lzKkRfNreQ8DwJYanGAxy7vpl3BnvQQeXYHXj0congdO7KCBZA8AlOjqENJYmKt7ce7pshIHIKxvsbTI_5eaAdtoVQBEi3TEsIi5WxcHDnp/s1600/mother-teresa-was-she-a-saint-or-sadistic-religious-fanatic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lZ9CvmnCSivTQr5ROBQiAnBRU2-tLTqh7lzKkRfNreQ8DwJYanGAxy7vpl3BnvQQeXYHXj0congdO7KCBZA8AlOjqENJYmKt7ce7pshIHIKxvsbTI_5eaAdtoVQBEi3TEsIi5WxcHDnp/s400/mother-teresa-was-she-a-saint-or-sadistic-religious-fanatic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The energy of Jesus Christ plus the efforts of Mother Teresa plus her faith n her Good Shepherd - made a difference to millions of lives.</div>
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Even from an organisational parlance, the energy of a visionary plus the effort of the team plus the faith of the team in the vision of their visionary - builds a legendary organisation.</div>
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But the intelligent effort is still dependent on you; this effort is the human manifestation in all the providential plans and it has to be executed only through you. There has to be tremendous amount of self belief to put in the intelligent effort and f the self-belief is born out of your unshakable faith then your life becomes a series of win.</div>
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Energy is the spiritual aspect of life and intelligent effort is the material aspect of life. The formless by itself has no way to manifest and the form by itself is still a spiritual orphan. The bridge between these two ends is the faith, it bridges spirituality and the material reality. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwQF_o-MZVcLz14-fNytD_yVeeJ2S_rSCuZFVqz_iU1kZooKtiO1hTZ9zss3nyySCAO4JrTWTT8jBx3syEgn78cn07TBlIqXNPMnLbP98zxYK1PjcigBpTjTQ2G3qfLhKe1c-cbmxwElF/s1600/Ramakrishna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwQF_o-MZVcLz14-fNytD_yVeeJ2S_rSCuZFVqz_iU1kZooKtiO1hTZ9zss3nyySCAO4JrTWTT8jBx3syEgn78cn07TBlIqXNPMnLbP98zxYK1PjcigBpTjTQ2G3qfLhKe1c-cbmxwElF/s400/Ramakrishna.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The energy of Ramakrishna, Rama, Krishna and Jesus didn't work for all those who put in their efforts, but it did work for Vivekananda, Hanuman, Arjuna, Teresa and the likes who worked with faith in their sources of energy. It is Faith that connects the object of your effort with the source of energy. However, remember, faith does not free man from the responsibility of his efforts. For the effort to be consistent and wholehearted you need self-belief. Faith without effort is expecting God to do man's work, which is mere foolishness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndvXUyWNFOPepUOVfEiXs2cmDL8XQoayUyo-AaM3EMh_BmntOChWLkIpwepBgqwBU7JXO9hcG5xjO0VH0Uy2nKBiMY7_ip1gtLwc3gbnK6glGHQzyjjgQMt4hT1xpTJ_Yp3i7X90NnBSy/s1600/shri-ramaridam-enna-karkalam-1050x700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndvXUyWNFOPepUOVfEiXs2cmDL8XQoayUyo-AaM3EMh_BmntOChWLkIpwepBgqwBU7JXO9hcG5xjO0VH0Uy2nKBiMY7_ip1gtLwc3gbnK6glGHQzyjjgQMt4hT1xpTJ_Yp3i7X90NnBSy/s400/shri-ramaridam-enna-karkalam-1050x700.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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'Energy plus Effort plus Faith' is a miraculous combination. Explore the infinite possibilities with self-belief rooted in Faith.</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the Article published in Infinithoughts magazine.</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-42682224124883102482016-04-29T15:14:00.000+05:302016-04-29T15:14:26.910+05:30Power of Non Doing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThmykZju9RAlWSCayBAxmNBvovlyWwWfHGuW5BfKeMpqWBwjsv7hn7BmGUnx-9C2qt-1_MqnCDhHSsYrTHSqHohWaAg-fcg0yupV1xJeXogWAMN4sugWZ0nCXY40NKaEXQ9roFL1lU2ga/s1600/meditation+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThmykZju9RAlWSCayBAxmNBvovlyWwWfHGuW5BfKeMpqWBwjsv7hn7BmGUnx-9C2qt-1_MqnCDhHSsYrTHSqHohWaAg-fcg0yupV1xJeXogWAMN4sugWZ0nCXY40NKaEXQ9roFL1lU2ga/s400/meditation+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The science of physics initially believed that all material is matter: When the evolution of scientific observation and with the aid of technology, the scientists discovered that <b>matter</b> is actually arrangement of <b>atoms</b>. </div>
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Further, discoveries revealed that atoms have a structure. It consists of Nuclei made of protons and neutrons and electrons that seemed to have no structure. Later it was discovered that protons and neutrons are also made of smaller particles called <b>quarks</b>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjj8A6n7IHHsVPphr7UJOclBBeg_bDDSZKvyROhhlvVHygzOPypj77N0bQ5a3bGbyNgiN5SqzQscnK5oi0nBaGf8DFOEMZcGrlfQsA5ET2bgRqgUQ5kOHhSvdtg04myqKMxD8Y7AypEGf/s1600/abstract_colorful_fractals_phy_2560x1600_wallpaperfo.com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjj8A6n7IHHsVPphr7UJOclBBeg_bDDSZKvyROhhlvVHygzOPypj77N0bQ5a3bGbyNgiN5SqzQscnK5oi0nBaGf8DFOEMZcGrlfQsA5ET2bgRqgUQ5kOHhSvdtg04myqKMxD8Y7AypEGf/s400/abstract_colorful_fractals_phy_2560x1600_wallpaperfo.com.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And today, science claims that all the particles, all the carriers of forces, are excitation of string-like objects. According to this theory, quarks are not viewed as points anymore, but as one-dimensional strings made up of an infinite number of sub-quarks all around the string.</div>
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<h3>
Theory Of Everything [TOE]</h3>
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According to the string theory, elementary particles are loops of one-dimensional strings vibrating at dizzy speeds. The substance of all the particles and hence all atom and matter is one. The string theory is called as the Theory Of Everything [TOE]. This is one of the most fascinating theories of science because it proves the oneness of existence. The same vibrating string vibrates in infinite ways and becomes infinite particles. What is unifying and simple about a string is that all of the particles are all excitations of the same one object - the vibrating strings.</div>
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Science has finally concluded that <b>everything is vibration.</b> But this is what spirituality has been claiming from the beginning. Finally the old is looking new. </div>
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Spirituality</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhkqWhtS_z7NFPQha6pax9SnKn7dnMAcmi1wQRnm7ZQIc12r7AhZSThZSFuMEhyTjoG1Ka_g_evSzf34CKp4Ow4DifiqBJYcQ5O4E7deA4XBAk5UVgglUlk50709fBEaJKxM_FRtS2Zzj/s1600/Meditation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhkqWhtS_z7NFPQha6pax9SnKn7dnMAcmi1wQRnm7ZQIc12r7AhZSThZSFuMEhyTjoG1Ka_g_evSzf34CKp4Ow4DifiqBJYcQ5O4E7deA4XBAk5UVgglUlk50709fBEaJKxM_FRtS2Zzj/s320/Meditation.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Spirituality had always explained, the more gross the matter; the lesser the frequency of vibrations; subtler the matter; higher the frequency of vibrations. Though all matter is constituted by the same vibrating strings, they resonate at different frequencies - depending on how gross or subtle the matter is. Thus, the difference between the gross physical body and the subtler mind is only in the difference in the frequency of vibrations. So, when you know how to tune into different frequencies, you can tune into the thought flow of others. You can trade and share minds.</div>
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Silence</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPPpMkXPRaL9KuNiwtrbmZC-ySG_0ZIkxB5LENgfAG4oypCPPZ8SadwZGefknTYHlYFjmG4OCpxTDfVLSBz6KEMyWAtImNA1S9r1OyeHf_6UnNLiHELgT1nCr55OnJmiu0wu9Du4DcjoZ/s1600/yoga-seyya-neramillaiya-1050x700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPPpMkXPRaL9KuNiwtrbmZC-ySG_0ZIkxB5LENgfAG4oypCPPZ8SadwZGefknTYHlYFjmG4OCpxTDfVLSBz6KEMyWAtImNA1S9r1OyeHf_6UnNLiHELgT1nCr55OnJmiu0wu9Du4DcjoZ/s400/yoga-seyya-neramillaiya-1050x700.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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SILENCE is fundamentally vibrations with the highest frequency. Haven't you noticed that the blades almost appear extinct when they rotate at a great speed? So, when the strings vibrate at their highest frequency; they almost seem like nothing which is silence. However, it is from these highest vibrations all the relatively lower vibrations originate. Hence, spiritual expression, everything comes from nothing. </div>
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Everything comes from nothing</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvSFNYPfcDWOqjBsLsOC8L7RJJ-_XLpWmvLt8fzA353p3EYrsqcW2wHpnq4HFHqLwIsxWE6omgn2HX3Poa3XhsFDExMBzFWd1a2U5f2VVZ8PILK2IzsrNdnCtFInfPq9kzPr919k5YAqB/s1600/meditation+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvSFNYPfcDWOqjBsLsOC8L7RJJ-_XLpWmvLt8fzA353p3EYrsqcW2wHpnq4HFHqLwIsxWE6omgn2HX3Poa3XhsFDExMBzFWd1a2U5f2VVZ8PILK2IzsrNdnCtFInfPq9kzPr919k5YAqB/s400/meditation+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Everything is born out of silence. Anything can be created from that state of silence. There is so much scientific truth to the expression, "When a thought is released from the seat of silence, a mere wish becomes a command to the universe." After all, isn't the smallest of particles enough to cause endless ripples in a still water lake? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ryjBPO3eM4MiUUAJCoL9MyY7NdezHZwsVF_orNXvKDCTEvFXKIP44VjmyXH2_3T2SG46FkJtxN0MIVEwsWHVU8iYE6NxODeZhTIu3k3nMO5aqViLDhYuye-yk-jMwhCRMb2J3huU6-V2/s1600/kashmirtour4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ryjBPO3eM4MiUUAJCoL9MyY7NdezHZwsVF_orNXvKDCTEvFXKIP44VjmyXH2_3T2SG46FkJtxN0MIVEwsWHVU8iYE6NxODeZhTIu3k3nMO5aqViLDhYuye-yk-jMwhCRMb2J3huU6-V2/s400/kashmirtour4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Traditionally, whenever enlightened people discovered a place with high vibrations, they formulated and formed a place of worship in that location. The science behind places of worship is to create a space where people can come and inherit the vibrations of that place. When a man stands inside a rose garden long enough, won't he come out smelling roses? In experiencing a space of high vibrations long enough, you inherit the vibrations of that place. In fact, it is for this reason that people come to visit those who return from pilgrimage. The idea being, in the presence of those who have inherited the vibrations from places of pilgrimage, the visitors can in turn inherit vibrations. That is why it is foolish to argue, 'If god is omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent, what is the necessity to to places of worship'. God may be omnipresent, but higher vibrations aren't. They are concentrated only in a few places. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAGnMUpMjVCLl-LMpZ8kfgmef4RGqvbjuuqfobyQ57G-m-MBbY1EBlQDakQBlSgxIp7d9FXIrHUQkS0ktU9zS303xWtO_FRqCZWRQKNeHJNV2W_idGYR9dAI_0m4AOTP8BmMYOaC5aOxxI/s1600/Kailash-sunrise-Tibet-hertage-tours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAGnMUpMjVCLl-LMpZ8kfgmef4RGqvbjuuqfobyQ57G-m-MBbY1EBlQDakQBlSgxIp7d9FXIrHUQkS0ktU9zS303xWtO_FRqCZWRQKNeHJNV2W_idGYR9dAI_0m4AOTP8BmMYOaC5aOxxI/s400/Kailash-sunrise-Tibet-hertage-tours.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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While some spaces fill people with vibrations, some people fill spaces and vibrations. The idea behind inviting spiritually evolved souls to initiate new spaces, from temples to offices to homes, is because these people can fill spaces with their vibrations. In fact, a spiritually evolved person, apart from all other characteristics, is one who remains centered and attuned to vibrations of the higher frequency. That is why it is said even when a Master speaks his within is still silent. He is always internally tuned to the higher vibrations. And when a person or space is filled with higher vibrations; all things become possible. After all, all the relatively low frequencies of vibrations emanate from the high frequency vibrations. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomG38q-cvPUdjyhceBvOZPSeYdUwho4tqu8bYeMHZwlxxTPeRojZiDsvRNcXpMewCz2vvpP4U1bU4auRVBwD0QUn_riFvkJe36OUAql7UTC81h5oiQcNqzkLC6hyphenhyphentNcWEvzpLCCbCcgMx/s1600/Shiva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomG38q-cvPUdjyhceBvOZPSeYdUwho4tqu8bYeMHZwlxxTPeRojZiDsvRNcXpMewCz2vvpP4U1bU4auRVBwD0QUn_riFvkJe36OUAql7UTC81h5oiQcNqzkLC6hyphenhyphentNcWEvzpLCCbCcgMx/s400/Shiva.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Power of Non-Doing</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOCRpvzCUMQghkNwaLCZ5ZtG6OTHZCHYl9hhnMeViQk3tloL0KtTDfqsf9-rQEN6w4KncI0wOGi0PI2Bxl8R56Qjvb6wMWF9RGAIqjg3SqIswZh508v5DbUJweq_OSloo_72JsvZPpIg_/s1600/meditation+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOCRpvzCUMQghkNwaLCZ5ZtG6OTHZCHYl9hhnMeViQk3tloL0KtTDfqsf9-rQEN6w4KncI0wOGi0PI2Bxl8R56Qjvb6wMWF9RGAIqjg3SqIswZh508v5DbUJweq_OSloo_72JsvZPpIg_/s400/meditation+10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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However, vibrations can be transferred and inherited only in a state of non-doing. That's why significance of you being asked to sit silently in places of worship, after you are done with your ritualistic practices. That's the significance of sitting in a state of non-doing, either in a space of high vibrations or in the presence of spiritually evolved soul with high vibrations, the vibrations will be transferred unto you. That's why you are asked not to speak in the presence of the spiritually evolved, for it isn't time for doing, but it is time for non-doing. The power of non-doing is that it enables you to tune in and inherit the higher vibrations, and in the presence of higher vibrations, all things are possible. Everything is possible.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0buDJRbvqYHCXFnUgsY5UZWW9gjyO98_xzqJpnCw1uxvTXf2kazlUYzUEsJbeEHYg5R44TTbyGoy47JGhJshU7tzXiVE05q-rPEVf9pEtr0BXFVtrNszjoVx_t-zmxZd-UP9zWuPVD__R/s1600/6692044503_99eebfa27f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0buDJRbvqYHCXFnUgsY5UZWW9gjyO98_xzqJpnCw1uxvTXf2kazlUYzUEsJbeEHYg5R44TTbyGoy47JGhJshU7tzXiVE05q-rPEVf9pEtr0BXFVtrNszjoVx_t-zmxZd-UP9zWuPVD__R/s400/6692044503_99eebfa27f_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Robert Frost rightly put it when he said, </h4>
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"We dance around in a ring and suppose,<br />but the secret sits in the middle and knows." </h4>
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Also, Franz Kafka said, </h4>
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"It is not necessary that you leave the house.<br /> Remain at your table and listen.<br /> Do not even listen; only wait.<br /> Do not even wait; be wholly still and alone.<br /> The world will present itself to you for its unmasking,<br />it can do nothing else, in ecstasy it will writhe at your feet."</h4>
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So the spiritual expression"...where he sat became a temple."</div>
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Go searching.... Find'. Having found a SOURCE high in vibrations, make a temple in your heart to your SOURCE. And from that moment of connect, watch the way your life is led Higher Deeper Beyond.....</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the magazine "Infinithoughts" .</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-65237971555165992802016-04-17T19:22:00.002+05:302016-04-17T19:22:43.825+05:30Devraha Baba - An Ageless Yogi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Practically every summer Devraha Baba, who lives in East Uttar Pradesh, comes to a shrine in the Himalayan mountains fora few months. </div>
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He is said to be quite aged. I do not know this directly, but I have heard Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India, say that from his own experience he can attest to the fact that Devraha Baba is more than 150 years of age. </div>
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He is said that in his childhood his father took him to this baba, who was then a very old man. At the time he gave the statement, Dr. Prasad was more than seventy years of age. This statement aroused my curiosity, and I made it a point to meet this baba when he stopped in Rishikesh on his way to the mountain shrine.</div>
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We conversed often there. He was living in a temporary pine wood hut which was constructed for him wherever he went. Sometimes he also lived in tree houses. He looked quite healthy and appeared to be in his seventies. Athough he is very austere and gentle and doesn't allow any student to touch him, he sometimes gives discourses on divine love.</div>
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He is very famous in North India. Huge crowds assemble to have his darshan [glace]. He has a large following, and the police and other government officers often visit him with the desire to be blessed. Several of my American students visited him during Kumbha Mela [a great fair which is held every twelve years in India] at Hardiwar in 1974.</div>
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I tried to find out the secret of how he lived to be so aged. I discovered that he practices certain aspects of yoga regularly, and that he eats only fruits and vegetables. There are many specific practices in yoga; individual aspirants choose those which suit them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BpKaFrzvGs-mtyjghQ4J9_rNiRet5SydjrQlP9J5ST1nCSLleT60zt0-yfpXoPzUkRZEMgrmcauExLlKj4ymPUNJ983f537DphT8HO5FM5bEPeihzusYWwDo_vcvKKbWc9KnrUy7zIO5/s1600/Sri+Dev+Raha+Hans+Baba+-+Mahasamadhi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BpKaFrzvGs-mtyjghQ4J9_rNiRet5SydjrQlP9J5ST1nCSLleT60zt0-yfpXoPzUkRZEMgrmcauExLlKj4ymPUNJ983f537DphT8HO5FM5bEPeihzusYWwDo_vcvKKbWc9KnrUy7zIO5/s400/Sri+Dev+Raha+Hans+Baba+-+Mahasamadhi.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maha Samadhi</td></tr>
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During my conversation with Baba he said, "Happiness is the greatest wealth of all. Punctuality is essential. Practising advanced methods of breathing is equally important. The technique of agelessness is a technique of pranayama." Tis Devraha Baba is a symbol of love.</div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "Living with the Himalayan Masters" by Swami Rama</i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-55199806560608327122016-04-01T17:27:00.000+05:302016-04-08T00:36:52.573+05:30Lighting lamp in these ways can change your life and attract Goddess Lakshmi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lighting lamp in these days will attract Goddess Lakshmi and keep away the evil from your house.</h3>
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<h3>
1. This simple trick can attract Goddess Lakshmi without much effort</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleGRgZ6_yp74LVki2lt2vZ6eokSVVviS9Oj0nmh9YmK1ooYywrLCtZaZRfcx0XOa6JxJTPYe4Ii9LK3Ru_xD-K7V3x8bHhyphenhyphenbtvxQP8sqH_ZWA6SaZ_sE5T2u5Co0HIU9TBkAi9z5l6VAS/s1600/Light+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleGRgZ6_yp74LVki2lt2vZ6eokSVVviS9Oj0nmh9YmK1ooYywrLCtZaZRfcx0XOa6JxJTPYe4Ii9LK3Ru_xD-K7V3x8bHhyphenhyphenbtvxQP8sqH_ZWA6SaZ_sE5T2u5Co0HIU9TBkAi9z5l6VAS/s400/Light+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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The light symbolizes knowledge, positivity and tranquility, and lighting lamps [diyas] or earthen lamps on daily basis is considered highly auspicious. It is said that regular lighting of lamps removes darkness, ignorance and evil.<br />
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<h3>
2. Lamps and Puja Room</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0GGiEOxFJh4GqOhVAjp_MscRcoYcZzgwZ9sRyY0HZeMvYog1x6_7M84r0UF741iYxexqEfoqbOn3PhhsUpFfv7NrTuQ6oUKQEuBjKMp0uXv5d6Y1Rw0TAxl3ytToU5duy8eyiBy6QVFQ/s1600/Light+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0GGiEOxFJh4GqOhVAjp_MscRcoYcZzgwZ9sRyY0HZeMvYog1x6_7M84r0UF741iYxexqEfoqbOn3PhhsUpFfv7NrTuQ6oUKQEuBjKMp0uXv5d6Y1Rw0TAxl3ytToU5duy8eyiBy6QVFQ/s400/Light+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Since the light of a ghee lamp is believed to bring in prosperity, knowledge and wisdom, it is customary rule in India to start all the auspicious religious events or social functions by lighting the lamp. By doing so it is believed that we invite the divine to come and bless us.</div>
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<h3>
3. What is Aarti?</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ-Mzk89VD6Q_hcRGgr6BQhGYt7HqXr7N_rK7RoJ18NiDabn-4pi2vLQpsDPH6Y0sv03LDgRzmZDVyFQ8jixDbRgbOOpnX-F0AxiTj3wTOS5SQWDJESOrrzLUPnpYf22W0CL4o22owT5V/s1600/Light+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ-Mzk89VD6Q_hcRGgr6BQhGYt7HqXr7N_rK7RoJ18NiDabn-4pi2vLQpsDPH6Y0sv03LDgRzmZDVyFQ8jixDbRgbOOpnX-F0AxiTj3wTOS5SQWDJESOrrzLUPnpYf22W0CL4o22owT5V/s400/Light+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In Hindu temples an elaborate "Aarti" prayer ceremony is performed with 5 days burning at once, and waved gently in a circular motion - in a clockwise manner, in front of the picture or statue or a deity. This aarti ritual literally purifies the atmospheric air. It symbolizes our dedication and oneness with the Lord.</div>
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<h3>
4. Lamp Shlokam</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmHoKaYNeVh21UPbKjReClkmp6B5PX0l4k0kZ2YvlfSeY3GL9xp4OkpAchaqBWrvCQEyfet_bABoKvVQZuDYGMSOSAZD-NuUrzXskiHBqEM1B8Z5Eny-rf8SziAehBA2CGXWXcOr7r55_/s1600/Light+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmHoKaYNeVh21UPbKjReClkmp6B5PX0l4k0kZ2YvlfSeY3GL9xp4OkpAchaqBWrvCQEyfet_bABoKvVQZuDYGMSOSAZD-NuUrzXskiHBqEM1B8Z5Eny-rf8SziAehBA2CGXWXcOr7r55_/s400/Light+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This sloka is to be recited while lighting lamp -<br />
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<i>'Subham Karoti Kalyanam </i><i>Arogyam Dhana Sampadah, </i><i>Shatru Buddhi Vinashaya </i><i>Dipa Jyotir Namostute. </i><i>Deepajothi Parabrahma </i><i>Deepajyothi Janardhana, </i><i>Deepo me hara to paapam </i><i>Deepaa Jyothir Namostute.'</i></blockquote>
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<h3>
5. Lighting Lamp can change your life</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQQ3u1UbiqdME8WTPHx8o2mdGAZ2I1BYqZZzyYPSMG-0dXJyk6AfyzCHy-p-vYpjiUyfBBJAhzpRKexNiTAnZUVmops_7xRu5SkGfapXNUl5XWVArzyMqCuvsjyHiZRq3Muu1ATzU3xBM/s1600/Light+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQQ3u1UbiqdME8WTPHx8o2mdGAZ2I1BYqZZzyYPSMG-0dXJyk6AfyzCHy-p-vYpjiUyfBBJAhzpRKexNiTAnZUVmops_7xRu5SkGfapXNUl5XWVArzyMqCuvsjyHiZRq3Muu1ATzU3xBM/s400/Light+6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Do you know the oil; the wick and the direction in which you light lamp can make a huge difference in your life?" </div>
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Lighting lamp with a different wick or using a different oil can change your luck without much effort. Take a look at different kinds of wicks and their benefits.</div>
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<h3>
6. Banana wick</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhei_mAF8zw_Ukwlzb6F4lsjsU04BBGZ-tSUeipN-QZAwh-Txzh4JQMNxSN-6WC5XzmrjpLo8v1Qzxox8WgepzQE3lIcabu34y1X20zZcCd5VI0O_xE3bDF-pLirKSUHRHLbsELuHbzC2no/s1600/Light+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhei_mAF8zw_Ukwlzb6F4lsjsU04BBGZ-tSUeipN-QZAwh-Txzh4JQMNxSN-6WC5XzmrjpLo8v1Qzxox8WgepzQE3lIcabu34y1X20zZcCd5VI0O_xE3bDF-pLirKSUHRHLbsELuHbzC2no/s400/Light+7.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lighting a wick made of banana stem fiber helps seek forgiveness for the mistakes you made unknowingly, it also cures you from ancestral curses.</div>
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<h3>
7. Cotton wick</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HNhQZGdVxyVHYhK3NbkXh6sNnSHexRgOlGdRkWCXnb5kr-j-k2_LzQOXjKOPkZGRBz6ROqA98-E4uc6b6xQecR0GOuJfLOplz8N-Y7JBo5eN-kPjQYLS8t_VInrySnXF02_vfVM8alSN/s1600/Light+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HNhQZGdVxyVHYhK3NbkXh6sNnSHexRgOlGdRkWCXnb5kr-j-k2_LzQOXjKOPkZGRBz6ROqA98-E4uc6b6xQecR0GOuJfLOplz8N-Y7JBo5eN-kPjQYLS8t_VInrySnXF02_vfVM8alSN/s400/Light+14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A cotton wick is the most common and easiest available wick. If you use cotton wick, you obtain good fortune.</div>
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<h3>
8. Rose water wick</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQ34uLeWyd57msu9dDlLQVuNytGrWFuoOGEe9IW3cPgADNRXUscRuhrwlJ_QY3_DbxjKMvLE8y6A0egSAjrIms3aL_MVgssAhgotjF_yox9VCJ3netTCQy3ryJFRxkLvcquqT-Rwk6aUB/s1600/Light+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQ34uLeWyd57msu9dDlLQVuNytGrWFuoOGEe9IW3cPgADNRXUscRuhrwlJ_QY3_DbxjKMvLE8y6A0egSAjrIms3aL_MVgssAhgotjF_yox9VCJ3netTCQy3ryJFRxkLvcquqT-Rwk6aUB/s400/Light+10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is one of the easiest trick to attract abundance by pleasing goddess Lakshmi. Take a white cloth immersed in rose water, dry it and use the same to create a wick. By using this wick for lightening lamp on a regular basis, you will not only attract Goddess Lakshmi but also attract peace in life.</div>
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<h3>
9. Yellow Sari wick</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNg3ied6EMk6KXIamvjVAYAXgLYupDr34Ash0PrhXyqFbh_JihczFtWjTsgl07ClXEndOyuRdYAn3qDD8mqHPGekZdwgdWWDbdaWnUx9eWPRGQ4x9eUnkH0NawqFG_xQCII4p93FT7l_lW/s1600/Light+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNg3ied6EMk6KXIamvjVAYAXgLYupDr34Ash0PrhXyqFbh_JihczFtWjTsgl07ClXEndOyuRdYAn3qDD8mqHPGekZdwgdWWDbdaWnUx9eWPRGQ4x9eUnkH0NawqFG_xQCII4p93FT7l_lW/s400/Light+11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you are suffering from any problem in your marital or love life, then this is the solution. Wick made from yellow sari cloth helps in eradicating problem between husband and wife and solve all love related problems.<br />
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<h3>
10. Wicks from Lotus stem</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLNgX4Q8q6Jpt0-VC2cUZl8FqvlSSCWklCzhz5pH-1PDpO0onivzkHu9pX2Aiv44i3353wfOUo0v_hNviwXSosagZvycbYjkazK4uaw_Bn3LHBlvCado4Oz8TnkZaQSxw3r6lNKNwLDOP/s1600/Light+13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLNgX4Q8q6Jpt0-VC2cUZl8FqvlSSCWklCzhz5pH-1PDpO0onivzkHu9pX2Aiv44i3353wfOUo0v_hNviwXSosagZvycbYjkazK4uaw_Bn3LHBlvCado4Oz8TnkZaQSxw3r6lNKNwLDOP/s400/Light+13.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you want to remove all your previous birth karma and are willing to establish a happy and prosperous life, this wick can help you.<br />
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<h3>
11. A new yellow cotton cloth</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNtUG778KKtjP5qJodwZCQ1u5Qr85oh-OA6JJMBBfz0JewH50uHeSiT6yufiBh1r8j31O0SyixALsNgWnlLHAvp9vk23tRxfSUnpiQV-4UiQUtw0R0TggTeb8cYbG_a_ztVLcX2wfn1Gx/s1600/Light+15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNtUG778KKtjP5qJodwZCQ1u5Qr85oh-OA6JJMBBfz0JewH50uHeSiT6yufiBh1r8j31O0SyixALsNgWnlLHAvp9vk23tRxfSUnpiQV-4UiQUtw0R0TggTeb8cYbG_a_ztVLcX2wfn1Gx/s400/Light+15.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you use yellow cotton cloth as a wick to light the lamp, you can please Goddess Parvati.<br />
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<h3>
12. Red cotton cloth</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkgXqw2c8bOhwdm9QZA0gI9vrOEoUxo_pojxqEq4UzdWktQxpsDnddROdFbAjlxLZevy8Ewu8M7Omxm4ArfO7jPUk1x7gkYDC72L70C-HUqkBYZx6pDcGFKbj2ACdu0n64-TwgL9a_1rG/s1600/Light+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkgXqw2c8bOhwdm9QZA0gI9vrOEoUxo_pojxqEq4UzdWktQxpsDnddROdFbAjlxLZevy8Ewu8M7Omxm4ArfO7jPUk1x7gkYDC72L70C-HUqkBYZx6pDcGFKbj2ACdu0n64-TwgL9a_1rG/s400/Light+16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The regular use of red cotton cloth as wick removes al marriage obstacles and child related problems. <br />
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<h3>
13. Different types of Oil used in diyas</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmVuKgVO4F5kXKZcfafUM7AdcY4_ekjuZGNrtuf3XARbZ0_bF5sycrlgOiv6T32_ujPeLn517Pbh43H7dgaVcdMshEAghfICRUEGfLn6M755Wz_-uPfHAts0oASNZizKR0yv_XV-7OS1JZ/s1600/Light+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmVuKgVO4F5kXKZcfafUM7AdcY4_ekjuZGNrtuf3XARbZ0_bF5sycrlgOiv6T32_ujPeLn517Pbh43H7dgaVcdMshEAghfICRUEGfLn6M755Wz_-uPfHAts0oASNZizKR0yv_XV-7OS1JZ/s400/Light+17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The ghee and the flame signifies Goddess Lakshmi who blesses us with wealth, the brightness of the flame resemble Goddess Saraswati who blesses us with education and knowledge and the heat from the flame signifies Goddess Durga who burns away and destroys all evil. Here are the different types of oils one can use for lighting divya and their respective benefits.<br />
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<h3>
14. Pure Ghee</h3>
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It is considered as the best for lighting the diyas. It ensures prosperity, health and happiness.<br />
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<h3>
15. Coconut Oil</h3>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafOCOnPCJrmoDi1F28weVmlcS9otu8StMY0pVYo-RAXiarDRgV-HgT05zavl6ziZbMNG9lS_lzalUipZu8Cp32LkrlHYf5cl6FgYf9r5_w1UEH2KS3wTtItMAT7IHnUPjxAJxq2JM9GC1/s1600/Light+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafOCOnPCJrmoDi1F28weVmlcS9otu8StMY0pVYo-RAXiarDRgV-HgT05zavl6ziZbMNG9lS_lzalUipZu8Cp32LkrlHYf5cl6FgYf9r5_w1UEH2KS3wTtItMAT7IHnUPjxAJxq2JM9GC1/s400/Light+23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiRZkoHYD5eIH5ioACZ2bAmb9XA_fJWsFrX0GiZcbBkCC5kIWAist_WWR4FZo9nkjMRgvjmUbIP1iJmwOQAZJ4QdspuULJXt5dKaplw_WFveLEZpHIh7CybmbKbwmgL03E9i1bwVVVgkA/s1600/Light+22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiRZkoHYD5eIH5ioACZ2bAmb9XA_fJWsFrX0GiZcbBkCC5kIWAist_WWR4FZo9nkjMRgvjmUbIP1iJmwOQAZJ4QdspuULJXt5dKaplw_WFveLEZpHIh7CybmbKbwmgL03E9i1bwVVVgkA/s400/Light+22.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
If you want to please Lord Ganapati, use coconut oil for lighting diyas.<br />
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<h3>
16. Sesame Oil</h3>
<div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2FYreNN3063j1ut2ZqL8kLau9ffXaHpFm4vh9QLxBluEetnHB0xevY9CTtXZBihUQ8JZlEgzjZ8wRN-4MY2nj3qa371DgskowdZa_nVFDs5zjpUkIjkYh92SC7B6KwNyp2l7YX21vBFo/s1600/Light+24.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2FYreNN3063j1ut2ZqL8kLau9ffXaHpFm4vh9QLxBluEetnHB0xevY9CTtXZBihUQ8JZlEgzjZ8wRN-4MY2nj3qa371DgskowdZa_nVFDs5zjpUkIjkYh92SC7B6KwNyp2l7YX21vBFo/s400/Light+24.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Regular use of Sesame oil ensures removal of obstacles and evil effects that haunt you. Lighting diya during Shani Mahadasha, Antardasha and in Sade-Sati period with sesame oil helps you please Lord Saturn.<br />
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<h3>
17. Neem Oil</h3>
<div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64zswEdtFrQNfP_UIjUE8yHi0VO0S39A2PpxF1tQZ_6D_OCGlcw0qLk9jHhOJXit3FFLufZIQc-iOyybuNQRm7b7k-JZFCBcKx4n9DPpABAqdNt-3iZLH-3NF8ct2mFrjXk9XD8X0_CyT/s1600/Light+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64zswEdtFrQNfP_UIjUE8yHi0VO0S39A2PpxF1tQZ_6D_OCGlcw0qLk9jHhOJXit3FFLufZIQc-iOyybuNQRm7b7k-JZFCBcKx4n9DPpABAqdNt-3iZLH-3NF8ct2mFrjXk9XD8X0_CyT/s400/Light+26.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Lighting neem oil diyas helps in bringing prosperity in the house.<br />
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<h3>
18. Castor Oil</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3Z5QHiXgqXvgswtM7pKnalfz_arkCkNCMsjSJS9uGZ1_y1Sl7SuGUi16DDiLZYXBAAwwuDr9DJMmWbUJQmQVAjHbg4Dhfyn9V9sGqamvUSTFY6ycvV5GM2Lm6GNjZqrw1pSKIok0U6Cz/s1600/Light+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ3Z5QHiXgqXvgswtM7pKnalfz_arkCkNCMsjSJS9uGZ1_y1Sl7SuGUi16DDiLZYXBAAwwuDr9DJMmWbUJQmQVAjHbg4Dhfyn9V9sGqamvUSTFY6ycvV5GM2Lm6GNjZqrw1pSKIok0U6Cz/s400/Light+25.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Castor oil diyas ensures fame, happiness and gives you a devotional mind set.<br />
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<h3>
19. Panchadeepa Oil</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsyFzFi0-9nf7CKYKUz-lZq9z4OZMPC4Crk7aG1Kj9acEvdtMwgzEhYM96t-671aeWFr-PogYXwyVOCHFJA3GRnlwWQfJgeID0paAIc0KdNxrJA2h-YCGz48G_ihVLHkX4Wf-TO3yGTSZ/s1600/Light+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsyFzFi0-9nf7CKYKUz-lZq9z4OZMPC4Crk7aG1Kj9acEvdtMwgzEhYM96t-671aeWFr-PogYXwyVOCHFJA3GRnlwWQfJgeID0paAIc0KdNxrJA2h-YCGz48G_ihVLHkX4Wf-TO3yGTSZ/s400/Light+27.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
It is highly recommended oil for lighting earthen lamps. Mix coconut oil, sesame oil, neem oil, Iluppai (mahua tree) oil and ghee in the ratio of 3:2:1:2:2 respectively or you can directly buy it from the market. A Panchadeepa Oil lamp keeps the home and its inmates protected from evil, illness and bad thoughts. It ensures prosperity and all forms of wealth. The granaries in the house are full and the home is brimming with joy and laughter. Children will be healthy and obedient. <br />
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<h3>
20. Say no to Sunflower oil while lighting lamp</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HAub_wHFYIHDOn6ledpFFIfXKjtYlGnxIvigrGUzZ0OgsaDeLZcDsN3L3NpgsKPm2BojAMUFJV9aZUeYIFicaJFecTGVrPdUAMQ91XUWMxSxZT4ZIP1eH8O6IJTDY78Uidi2w3-u7RoM/s1600/Light+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HAub_wHFYIHDOn6ledpFFIfXKjtYlGnxIvigrGUzZ0OgsaDeLZcDsN3L3NpgsKPm2BojAMUFJV9aZUeYIFicaJFecTGVrPdUAMQ91XUWMxSxZT4ZIP1eH8O6IJTDY78Uidi2w3-u7RoM/s400/Light+28.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is strictly forbidden to use groundnut or sunflower oil to light lamps. Our elders always said that lighting groundnut oil creates debts in the home. The people living in the home are always bickering for money.<br />
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<h3>
21. Important rules to follow</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrinilZIRQM77EbqlspeRA9OTR4iLrG3rSVB5NuQhEoZF0h4hCWXIlLV0WFfW3iwB6blPfHDYDoHscjuGUeqSO7dBOfHjNoKwZgQLizbctBvLKULsB1QXyl8vHesfBdSXDCJN9ZD-vdaZG/s1600/Light+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrinilZIRQM77EbqlspeRA9OTR4iLrG3rSVB5NuQhEoZF0h4hCWXIlLV0WFfW3iwB6blPfHDYDoHscjuGUeqSO7dBOfHjNoKwZgQLizbctBvLKULsB1QXyl8vHesfBdSXDCJN9ZD-vdaZG/s400/Light+29.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is some more information related to lighting lamp. Always use minimum 2 and maximum 3 wicks for lighting the lamp. It symbolizes the trinity-Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. After lighting the lamp do not rub the excess oil on your hair, it will make you lose your wealth. Also rubbing in your own dress is also not good. So keep a piece of cloth in your pooja room and rub the excess oil on it. After head bath, one should remove the head towel before lighting the lamp.<br />
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<h3>
22. Lighting lamp in particular direction ..... North</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgpr3hhHNfDe4lsTeA1vK3iYbXrWmz0DHvhgOP3YGzSGRWAl0UuwELUf2og7NQ-N6iKSPHANfMxd646B-4u0xuhTLcHZ3dwBhCZ2s2EEgB1v1dlIoOkpfjgdvE-L7eTZIlIOFRBHhLIW9_/s1600/Light+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgpr3hhHNfDe4lsTeA1vK3iYbXrWmz0DHvhgOP3YGzSGRWAl0UuwELUf2og7NQ-N6iKSPHANfMxd646B-4u0xuhTLcHZ3dwBhCZ2s2EEgB1v1dlIoOkpfjgdvE-L7eTZIlIOFRBHhLIW9_/s400/Light+30.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lighting lamp in North direction brings wealth and prosperity. One is blessed with 8 kinds of wealth or Ashtaishwaryas of Goddess Lakshmi who empowers her devotees, giving them luxuries in the form of wealth. <br />
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<h3>
23. East</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhD3HVbqtPA_Y575fb-kJE89dCTXy2huZ9DjaMN8aH2QydrT7ahyphenhyphenDDEkFV5iKvsnUZO34ikgk9_ANlTeDRMFvKyPLh6u_8Yg7d-YMVbFzHw9KsZ1uow_nica1My7u0R0gjCqX9bCIlOYs/s1600/Light+31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhD3HVbqtPA_Y575fb-kJE89dCTXy2huZ9DjaMN8aH2QydrT7ahyphenhyphenDDEkFV5iKvsnUZO34ikgk9_ANlTeDRMFvKyPLh6u_8Yg7d-YMVbFzHw9KsZ1uow_nica1My7u0R0gjCqX9bCIlOYs/s400/Light+31.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Lighting lamp in East will bring good health and peace of mind.<br />
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<h3>
24. West</h3>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbo-dmwixWrFtK8XmiRDsjpWnELe9SzwvY6nJMJuqNLQH-rdbuU4TYnXr2eFvinhSGBe5hRKve6V6U3FHmWGZvhxAUuSQr-KbMAfcknUX27wM3Ke_Mf59BUwdsallKuHCk8OAKB8UWQETQ/s1600/Light+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbo-dmwixWrFtK8XmiRDsjpWnELe9SzwvY6nJMJuqNLQH-rdbuU4TYnXr2eFvinhSGBe5hRKve6V6U3FHmWGZvhxAUuSQr-KbMAfcknUX27wM3Ke_Mf59BUwdsallKuHCk8OAKB8UWQETQ/s400/Light+32.jpg" width="348" /></a></div>
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<br />
Lighting lamp in West makes you free from debts and ensures victory over foes.<br />
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<h3>
25. South</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6h7C1xTpC1WF2ohqloGjuQ1KYaWY0srZ0-SIq72CYx6jcYJLXBux9fCCxng7J4JK9x5dBaZPnh-oNrWfYOB7phkPq4Pc4sYc2nHo-YqaA4-zeUAqBiTRfb68FMfKy3XDX_rOdP4RYfSyR/s1600/Light+33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6h7C1xTpC1WF2ohqloGjuQ1KYaWY0srZ0-SIq72CYx6jcYJLXBux9fCCxng7J4JK9x5dBaZPnh-oNrWfYOB7phkPq4Pc4sYc2nHo-YqaA4-zeUAqBiTRfb68FMfKy3XDX_rOdP4RYfSyR/s400/Light+33.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We should never light a lamp in the South direction. It brings bad luck.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i><br />
<i>Source: Article from Speaking Tree</i><br />
<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-62810701871362682016-03-19T12:46:00.000+05:302016-03-19T12:46:30.882+05:30Ganesha Stories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4cM8QZb1saSE__0hWWhViTxwEewQFvVLKF_Aw7NSlwe6Mguli23oZZ1hzqT_gmK1f3K8uLsH6F22k4llgLla5KgXRSkiHa5ezEyNtLUhgjX-TfmQzlW52OYM3DRGjCWX60DxoRLxuPuk/s1600/sivaperumaan+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4cM8QZb1saSE__0hWWhViTxwEewQFvVLKF_Aw7NSlwe6Mguli23oZZ1hzqT_gmK1f3K8uLsH6F22k4llgLla5KgXRSkiHa5ezEyNtLUhgjX-TfmQzlW52OYM3DRGjCWX60DxoRLxuPuk/s400/sivaperumaan+2.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Image 1 looks like a family photograph: father, mother and two sons. But this is no normal portrait. This is the image of a God called Shiva, a mountain mendicant, his wife, the Goddess Parvati, who is a mountain princes, and their two children, Ganesha, who has the head of an elephant, and Kartikeya, who holds a spear.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One day, when this family was sitting together, they were paid a visit by a sage called Narad, who loved to stir trouble wherever he went.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNlXSolCKBYJWBFzj5U-XH6hZRMHwkAFdbqqzHDZYJixwCcbvrG85B7sqEwBOffjj-QABoew811U4Bjnuk9nF1y2Jrkj7FLpOrDqdBZgLaGRbasA5ZtPWXHkETgMEpbJ5zfNRk_qnTJSs/s1600/Lord_Shiva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNlXSolCKBYJWBFzj5U-XH6hZRMHwkAFdbqqzHDZYJixwCcbvrG85B7sqEwBOffjj-QABoew811U4Bjnuk9nF1y2Jrkj7FLpOrDqdBZgLaGRbasA5ZtPWXHkETgMEpbJ5zfNRk_qnTJSs/s400/Lord_Shiva.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
'I have a mango,' said Narad, 'for your better son.'<br />
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'How can I decide which one is better?' asked Shiva, turning to to his wife, Parvati.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Let them go on a race,' said Parvati. 'He who first goes around the world thrice shall get the mango.' </div>
<br />
'Let it be so,' said Shiva.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOul1cUdvK7GPQffxP3Kcb1FXBKWGW7CFD9DoEjUczbiMMyf1heDjgdlE5KAiSxXd5WWaZnxrfzVHrVuRfQmtF3xIGx8dqd9CJ4oyp-_WdY08HDrrNIiQw2oiTmIwyb3olLhMkXkGvQF4/s1600/Kartikeya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOul1cUdvK7GPQffxP3Kcb1FXBKWGW7CFD9DoEjUczbiMMyf1heDjgdlE5KAiSxXd5WWaZnxrfzVHrVuRfQmtF3xIGx8dqd9CJ4oyp-_WdY08HDrrNIiQw2oiTmIwyb3olLhMkXkGvQF4/s400/Kartikeya.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYIokb9KFHxjBzVq43qoFlRu3kb3lJ3ZuMUPBftb4OabT7IWvxnDxlrmwE5OqgLncM7XtxorzbF2IIGUcdvSO6VkQZEb-Mc3sfdYPrDFp-jKpTxQEKo6NQR1WD9QRpaECD5REwzmn01pq/s1600/contest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYIokb9KFHxjBzVq43qoFlRu3kb3lJ3ZuMUPBftb4OabT7IWvxnDxlrmwE5OqgLncM7XtxorzbF2IIGUcdvSO6VkQZEb-Mc3sfdYPrDFp-jKpTxQEKo6NQR1WD9QRpaECD5REwzmn01pq/s400/contest.jpg" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kartikeya, shown in Image 2 immediately mounted his peacock and rose to the sky, determined to be the first to go around the world thrice. Ganesha, however, did not move. He continued to sit beside his parents, playing with his rat. Kartikeya went around the world once, then twice, wondering what Ganesha was up to. Ganesha still showed no signs of moving. As Kartikeya was about to complete his third and final round, ganesha got up, and as shown in Image 3, quickly ran around his parents thrice and declared, 'I have won!.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'What do you mean, you won?' asked Kartikeya. 'It was I who went around <b>the world</b> thrice. You just went around our parents'. 'That's not true. You went around <b>the world. </b>I went around <b>my world. </b>Tell me, which world matters more?<br />
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbo5pu4dmSItgL8eIp92KcL3X_Jwb8tK7c1PXd8d7rQeJ5SpLPiqrexNJI4L12vD2UWp7o9YMIG2FObKFfQ7OmS28Nzhk6EF-I8ew0NZcXlwfcErMioClVyl2X5LWHGW9bGQwalMsmdGjZ/s1600/p3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbo5pu4dmSItgL8eIp92KcL3X_Jwb8tK7c1PXd8d7rQeJ5SpLPiqrexNJI4L12vD2UWp7o9YMIG2FObKFfQ7OmS28Nzhk6EF-I8ew0NZcXlwfcErMioClVyl2X5LWHGW9bGQwalMsmdGjZ/s400/p3.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br />
"How come?" asked Kartikeya and Ganesha replied, "You went around the world while I went around my world. You went around the objective world while I went around my subjective world. You went around the physical world around us while I went around an emotional world within me. What matters more?"<br />
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For Kartikeya the measurable rational logical world mattered more than the unmeasurable emotional world that mattered to Ganesha. There are two aspects of Life. Narada gave the mango to Ganesha. Kartikeya did not agree with this decision, and moved to South.<br />
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Every culture views the world through different lenses. For some, there is one formless divine; for others, the divine has many forms. Who is right? For some, there is only one life with no rebirth; for others, this is just one of many lives. Who is right? Answers to these questions are never universal. They are cultural. They spawn beliefs. From beliefs comes behavior that can make us either less tolerant or more accommodating. That is why <b>my world </b>does matter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGGiVe7rXrabZadY7vLpYcovMMdPfJw3J7Qd1eW5DxeMhMYNbEK6OdKzzqBB0t31iFBA-r-x0f-gX1M411D2RzD4rIvIFcycXBhuK1lDCswP7QGaBwvAtATR4TYKAUYQ7cGtfD6BGPa4p/s1600/vallielephant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGGiVe7rXrabZadY7vLpYcovMMdPfJw3J7Qd1eW5DxeMhMYNbEK6OdKzzqBB0t31iFBA-r-x0f-gX1M411D2RzD4rIvIFcycXBhuK1lDCswP7QGaBwvAtATR4TYKAUYQ7cGtfD6BGPa4p/s400/vallielephant.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
2. Valli's Marriage</h3>
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Kartikeya, the brother of Ganesha is also known as Muruga, especially in Tamil Nadu. He lives in the mountains of Tamil Nadu and in one of the valleys, in the middle of a millet field, he saw a beautiful tribal girl called Valli. He fell in love with her but no matter how hard he tried she refused to respond to his attentions. <br />
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So finally he prayed to his brother, Ganesha, who took the form of a wild elephant and stormed into the millet field frightening Valli who ran into the arms of the handsome-god Muruga. Muruga immediately offered protection to Valli and drove the elephant away much to her delight. Thus with the help of his brother, Muruga was finally able to get the girl of his dreams.<br />
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3. The Moon</h3>
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One day Lord Ganesha was travelling happily through the world on his vehicle, the rat. He had eaten lots and lots of Modakas [his favourite sweet, made up of rice flour, buts, jaggery and coconut.] His stomach was full and he was enjoying the ride. Suddenly the rat saw a snake and stumbled.<br />
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Lord Ganesha toppled and fell flat on the ground. His stomach burst open and all the Modaks scattered around. Lord Ganesha gathered all the Modaks and stuffed them back into his stomach.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzHa3tcLoTtzkCNjdpi25Ingee1AGBRuJ97wpyRXESmMxcrN9UZ1g8nV92yh3rsgDBDv1za8uZgDq-KJBFCFqc94ZvHyyDIJqXBt6mwV7zSj3x9Xxlno2WWiCWXdW6tHd5XGPdVNSz6H87/s1600/Ganesh+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzHa3tcLoTtzkCNjdpi25Ingee1AGBRuJ97wpyRXESmMxcrN9UZ1g8nV92yh3rsgDBDv1za8uZgDq-KJBFCFqc94ZvHyyDIJqXBt6mwV7zSj3x9Xxlno2WWiCWXdW6tHd5XGPdVNSz6H87/s400/Ganesh+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the gust of anger and frustration he caught the snake that caused his rat to stumble and tied it around his belly. Seeing this sight, the moon started laughing and made fun of Lord Ganesha's big belly. The otherwise calm and cool Ganesha became furious and pulled out one of his tusks and threw it towards the moon with great force.<br />
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Lord Ganesha cursed the moon and said that. Your beauty is the cause of your arrogance and now your beauty will become the cause of your suffering. Whoever sees you on the fourth day of Bhaadrapada month i.e., Ganesh chaturthi [the birthday of Lord Ganesha] would receive bad repute and suffer bad luck. That is why no one looks at the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRHqmiOk079r3griqad93L5rGK_27pvHBeYl9v2zxTg36lILBoWss9HPU4TMmdotCQPRDZzBm8h9jG-h_EnJ2GmoqcKwsfktKnMWQ_3DtUWj7Pl7UsYfV8ZGgeDyo0A8sxaojxEDEhRiu/s1600/moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRHqmiOk079r3griqad93L5rGK_27pvHBeYl9v2zxTg36lILBoWss9HPU4TMmdotCQPRDZzBm8h9jG-h_EnJ2GmoqcKwsfktKnMWQ_3DtUWj7Pl7UsYfV8ZGgeDyo0A8sxaojxEDEhRiu/s400/moon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lisening to this curse the moon realized his mistake and begged for forgiveness. Lord Ganesha calmed down and told the moon that the curse cannot be taken back.<br />
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The moon that was proud of his appearance and laughed at Lord Ganesha just because of his big belly and his appearance also had to bow down to the Lord Ganesha.<br />
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<h3>
4. Parashuram</h3>
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Whenever there are problems on earth, Lord Vishnu descends from his heaven, Vaikuntha, and takes an appropriate animal or human form to set things right. The sixth such form of Lord Vishnu is that of Parashurama who killed many unrighteous kings with his axe.<br />
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According to Brahmananda Purna and Brahmavaivarata Purana, towards the end of his stay on earth, Parashurama decided to give his blood soaked axe to Shiva. Ganesha stood guard at the foothills of Mount Kailas and would not let Parashurama in until he introduced himself. But Parashurama was in too much of a hurry to do so. So he pushed Ganesha away. Ganesha refused to budge. Irritated, Parashurama swung his axe and struck one of Ganesha's tusks. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLHt5vmAC6QPeOO_pFjoiOHLyqtVRQIQPlwSbzbbxEbUD8rBpXDdKGc3CZROU9OrsHBRht5r6A8dWsDdx7S11pGoXuB_73MpQLWxWAB_CGHOHn5LunHk6qp8wY_02HuV4rXvzTmH5eot_/s1600/battle-of-Lord-Ganesha-with-Parashurama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLHt5vmAC6QPeOO_pFjoiOHLyqtVRQIQPlwSbzbbxEbUD8rBpXDdKGc3CZROU9OrsHBRht5r6A8dWsDdx7S11pGoXuB_73MpQLWxWAB_CGHOHn5LunHk6qp8wY_02HuV4rXvzTmH5eot_/s400/battle-of-Lord-Ganesha-with-Parashurama.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That is how it is said to have broken. Ganesh's mother, Parvati was so angry when she saw this that she transformed into Durga, the fierce warrior goddess, and challenged Parashurama to a duel. Parashurama realized he had acted harshly and apologized to the goddess. She calmed down, but on condition that Parashurama give up his axe. Parashurama did as instructed and gave the axe to Ganesha in whose hand it can still be seen in images today. With the axe gonbe, Parashurama was no longer the angry warrior priest. He became a sage and meditated on the foothills of Mount Kailas.<br />
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5. Lord of Obstacles</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqlm1WJoCuFt7-Z_jQUi8BqMGP1viz_E6-Y6MuILkfZEOWh7vTiUUF0f6KTjuImnu-vZSfIIAEHbW33YAzZ1VhV26PiL9ItXQ_N4Ehhyphenhyphen2HtbRZL7MVdGZMN8pgxD4ADxuPVTYpKxqGpt3/s1600/ocean+churning+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqlm1WJoCuFt7-Z_jQUi8BqMGP1viz_E6-Y6MuILkfZEOWh7vTiUUF0f6KTjuImnu-vZSfIIAEHbW33YAzZ1VhV26PiL9ItXQ_N4Ehhyphenhyphen2HtbRZL7MVdGZMN8pgxD4ADxuPVTYpKxqGpt3/s400/ocean+churning+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The gods once churned the ocean of milk for the nectar of immortality known as amrita. However, they forgot to propitiate Ganesha before this undertaking. To teach them a lesson, Ganesha caused the serpent-king Vasugi who was being used as the churning rope to vomit venom. As the gods choked on the poison, they invoked Ganesha and begged him to remove this obstacle to their success. Pleased with their worship, Ganesha requested his father Shiva to drink and digest the poison, thus clearing the air and enabling the gods to continue churning until the pot of elixir emerged from the ocean. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlMU_1_hQa4LedDX1wNDZTXibDlQYYMBS9XHLDQ1QREafCq_C1KDHo0oS_02iWQtKtMwyBAebm35OpWxhNIvrPWMOkCR8ujvW9lCnFLHLYU850XeUBkb2hGJ-xYkI8kA5EkEpulfsKpE_/s1600/ocean+churning+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlMU_1_hQa4LedDX1wNDZTXibDlQYYMBS9XHLDQ1QREafCq_C1KDHo0oS_02iWQtKtMwyBAebm35OpWxhNIvrPWMOkCR8ujvW9lCnFLHLYU850XeUBkb2hGJ-xYkI8kA5EkEpulfsKpE_/s400/ocean+churning+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Since then, every one worships Ganesha. Without propitiating him, they say, Krishna could not have married Rukmini, Ram could not have killed Ravan, Kartikeya could not have killed Taraka, Shiva could not have killed the Tripura demons, Durga could not have killed Mahisha, and Rishis could not have attained wisdom.<br />
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Ganesha name is chanted before any activity is started. Those who forget to do so, do so at their own peril.<br />
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<i>Sources: </i><br />
<i>1] Exceprts from the book on "7 Secrets from Hindu Calendar Art" by Devdutt Pattanaik</i><br />
<i>2] Excerpts from the book on "99 Thoughts on GANESHA" by Devdutt Pattnaik </i></div>
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-87907584922868643702016-02-17T13:50:00.000+05:302016-02-17T13:50:01.566+05:30Pillayar suzhi - Ganesha rituals <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcacaNkNGrGQ_8F2CaPIk-LX8tjbxxRGuPlFXFZDYdD5zt9woRrHZ5TN8JO3b1dVMTbUXCA6lmdyIdb-CsmdEUDXNYUeqe63Fkk4lKmGVauZLEOqQwYuvbAu_xlWHc5kc9F5oXof5b8Es/s1600/pillayar+suzhi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcacaNkNGrGQ_8F2CaPIk-LX8tjbxxRGuPlFXFZDYdD5zt9woRrHZ5TN8JO3b1dVMTbUXCA6lmdyIdb-CsmdEUDXNYUeqe63Fkk4lKmGVauZLEOqQwYuvbAu_xlWHc5kc9F5oXof5b8Es/s400/pillayar+suzhi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In Tamil Nadu, Pillayar suzhi or Ganesha circle is drawn first before writing anything on paper. It is comprised of a circle, a curve, two lines and a dot. Perhaps in earlier times, when there was no paper, scribes used palm leaves to write on. Before they started writing, they checked the quality of leaf by making a circle, a curve, a line and a dot. </div>
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This came to symbolize Ganesha, the scribe who helped <i>Vyasa</i> write down the Mahabharata. Since then the <b>Pillayar Suzhi</b> is supposed to make things auspicious and bring good luck. In examinations, students draw this symbol at the beginning of their answer paper in the hope that the examinations go well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AVuApzNF-H9YG5m8rHfty8JIrfTTWEweOSodmK1QmPq19Lo7aEobsAM0ns_WQnaNkJz2psXYrYUJRKvdrD5SenmQ2UgCo3cAdyaptk3Btti688vGgLFhVe1aT1xtgFwWjiq5nnj5xoPx/s1600/aesthetic-exploration-of-ganesha-35%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AVuApzNF-H9YG5m8rHfty8JIrfTTWEweOSodmK1QmPq19Lo7aEobsAM0ns_WQnaNkJz2psXYrYUJRKvdrD5SenmQ2UgCo3cAdyaptk3Btti688vGgLFhVe1aT1xtgFwWjiq5nnj5xoPx/s400/aesthetic-exploration-of-ganesha-35%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The 'pillayar suzhi' as shown in the above picture, contains all the basic shapes necessary to write down any letter in Tamil. Namely, straight lines and curves. Additionally people also add a dot in the bottom.</div>
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This helped people identify good pal leaves to write on. The ones on which they couldn't draw the 'pillayar suzhi' comfortably were discarded. This habit persisted and is still followed as a tradition albeit without any particular use.</div>
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Symbolism behind Pillayar Suzhi</h3>
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<i>naatham <b>kodu</b> vadivam. Idu <b>Sivam.</b></i></div>
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<i> Aduthuthu thondrum Vindhu <b>pulli</b> vadivam. Idhu <b>Shakthi</b></i></div>
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<i> Sivanum Sakthiyum sernthathu than Pillayar suzhi. </i><br />
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This is the prayer.</div>
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In Pillyar suzhi , the Tamil Letter <b><span lang="TA" style="color: #333333; font-family: "latha" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%;">உ</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%;">– </span>begins with <b>small circle</b>, then <b>semi circle</b> expands and end with straight line. <br />
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First small circle represents <i><b>poornathvam</b></i> - Brahman aspects, second the expanded semi circle presents - <i><b>apoornathvam </b></i>- represents the world. It symbolically represents that from the <i><b>poornam</b> <b>Brahman </b></i>which represent <b>small circle</b>, this world - <i><b>appornam</b></i> <b>[semi circle] </b>came into existence. Since this <i><b>Brahman</b></i> aspects is complete <i>poornam </i>and the world comes out of it from the same substance must also be Brahman only. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrxplnH5qTUL9PzLMesHnrx7lC1YzgASm__1lepQTaY85zIniowlHcdunqTgcMT3QkvgMTKqBJ7iPAh6fcNgjNjBQFqrhvOOve7tgvo5lTx7vvd-P4pmf-ztbqlWEVReW6Uj3h78bMwVs/s1600/Shree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrxplnH5qTUL9PzLMesHnrx7lC1YzgASm__1lepQTaY85zIniowlHcdunqTgcMT3QkvgMTKqBJ7iPAh6fcNgjNjBQFqrhvOOve7tgvo5lTx7vvd-P4pmf-ztbqlWEVReW6Uj3h78bMwVs/s320/Shree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h3>
SHRI</h3>
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This <i>Pillayar Suzhi</i> in Tamil Nadu serves the same functions as the mark of <b>SHRI</b> in North India. <b>Shri</b> is also said to be another name for Ganesha. By writing his name in the beginning, one is heralding auspiciousness and ensuring absence of obstacles in any activity. </div>
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<i>Source: Excerpts from the book on "99 Thoughts on Ganesha" written by Dr.Devdutt Pattanaik</i><br />
<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i>A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-71791174191724227582016-02-13T15:19:00.002+05:302016-02-13T15:19:30.017+05:30Sita versus Draupadi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkdP9JC0XWaA2elwhArHapi2rBOhJNoUc40vOI8V7TGOyFN2QMxKntnftt70CtUumjQVyDDKxi1EXc9Yn1TbozyWNgF1_PVaHwPbGn4aat-_2NSUu9cClwTWKz90dQiHnmKRFdvLu6gbe/s1600/Sita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkdP9JC0XWaA2elwhArHapi2rBOhJNoUc40vOI8V7TGOyFN2QMxKntnftt70CtUumjQVyDDKxi1EXc9Yn1TbozyWNgF1_PVaHwPbGn4aat-_2NSUu9cClwTWKz90dQiHnmKRFdvLu6gbe/s320/Sita.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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<b>Sita</b> and <b>Draupadi</b> are the two great heroines of India and they are as different from each other as the Ramayana is from the Mahabharata. A comparison of these two legendary female characters reveals to us much about human personality as it does about human society.</div>
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<h3>
Birth</h3>
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Both <i>Sita</i> and <i>Draupadi</i> are princes. Both have unnatural or supernatural births. But while <i>Sita </i>is born of <b>earth</b>. Draupadi of <b>fire</b>. </div>
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<h3>
Father</h3>
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<i> Sita's</i> father Janaka, King of Videha finds her accidentally while he is ploughing a field and decides to adopt her. Sita also addressed as her father's name Jnaka's Janaki. Janaki is another name of Sita.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgwSBmW7iayL_5wE6s-rc6EyOwemFM-JT8B-b9EgeSoUEeZ3_ZFMLTmihpvL6QDq8l1rlB5krSfgrKYuD2qB0hpl0WDeLARtF48VAwsoSGl3br4uXkhHxk1w_vXhTIlDY6LXiegQ8XE59/s1600/Janaka-Janaki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgwSBmW7iayL_5wE6s-rc6EyOwemFM-JT8B-b9EgeSoUEeZ3_ZFMLTmihpvL6QDq8l1rlB5krSfgrKYuD2qB0hpl0WDeLARtF48VAwsoSGl3br4uXkhHxk1w_vXhTIlDY6LXiegQ8XE59/s400/Janaka-Janaki.jpg" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">King Janaka - Sita's father</span></td></tr>
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Draupadi's father Drupada, king of Panchala, creates her with the sole purpose of destroying the Kuru household that patronized Drona, who used his students, the Pandavas and the Kauravas, to conquer and then divide Panchala. </div>
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Thus while Sita is born an <b>infant</b>. <i>Draupadi</i> is born an <b>adult</b>, with no appreciation of childhood or parenting.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhE7aBAqroyB2UY7FQ9rht1h_snWUuvyrKKMxWL-sytIG3nx9I9htHBlrYSbITtJBb7ThdSzlgfibs9hrkjw4d4xJPWoHPhO2QFL34qzat4N27c6MZUyBKtXJr4aFRN4cFPSbRVHm6NBQb/s1600/Upyaz_showing_his_elder_brother_to_Drupada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhE7aBAqroyB2UY7FQ9rht1h_snWUuvyrKKMxWL-sytIG3nx9I9htHBlrYSbITtJBb7ThdSzlgfibs9hrkjw4d4xJPWoHPhO2QFL34qzat4N27c6MZUyBKtXJr4aFRN4cFPSbRVHm6NBQb/s320/Upyaz_showing_his_elder_brother_to_Drupada.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Upyaz showing his elder brother to Drupada</span></td></tr>
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And while <i>Sita</i> is raised in <b>love</b>. <i>Draupadi</i> is raised in <b>hatred</b>, designed for destroying a family. Curiously, mothers play little or no role in their upbringing. They are always addressed as their father's daughters. <i>Janaka's</i> Janaki and Drupada's Draupadi. </div>
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<h3>
Marriage</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHinq0liqrbz8DEfr42kC3He_ZCruqIqn0sVy4vllr0jZVCTDhE-fXg7qjX6tVhjBewOKW0tNoF61_dCO_upvgUzEvNxriWriT_D3xzIINLpp2FzQ10nC4C5Uj0RWSK74TtWAbenyduKhr/s1600/rama164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHinq0liqrbz8DEfr42kC3He_ZCruqIqn0sVy4vllr0jZVCTDhE-fXg7qjX6tVhjBewOKW0tNoF61_dCO_upvgUzEvNxriWriT_D3xzIINLpp2FzQ10nC4C5Uj0RWSK74TtWAbenyduKhr/s400/rama164.jpg" width="363" /></a></div>
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Both <i>Sita</i> and <i>Draupadi</i> are trophies in an archery contest. Ram breaks a mighty bow that he was supposed to string to win Sita's hand while Arjuna strikes the eye of a fish rotating on a wheel hanging from the ceiling to win <i>Draupadi's</i> hand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGRJ_HjP0Yn6PJDzehC52XP-6nM3LN22DjT9JV8ZEovQ_6kJXl1VJR7LqitO-4zOMV-m-yClBMJWdyE_VGiXekKRaDGfFsBo-kwQiTSP50XfXYkD6J5ddaDcMTqkOrM3fx8jD4x4TnOXe/s1600/The_Swayamvara_of_Panchala%2527s_princess%252C_Draupadi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGRJ_HjP0Yn6PJDzehC52XP-6nM3LN22DjT9JV8ZEovQ_6kJXl1VJR7LqitO-4zOMV-m-yClBMJWdyE_VGiXekKRaDGfFsBo-kwQiTSP50XfXYkD6J5ddaDcMTqkOrM3fx8jD4x4TnOXe/s400/The_Swayamvara_of_Panchala%2527s_princess%252C_Draupadi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Romance</h3>
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Some Ramayana retellings tels us of how Sita met Ram in a garden before marriage and it was love at her first sight, there is no such romance in Draupadi's life. In fact, she prevents Karna from participating in the archery contest as he is of low caste and ends up marrying a <i>brahmin</i> who turns out to be Arjuna disguised. </div>
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Sita's sister and cousins are given in marriage to Ram's brothers. Draupadi is shared by Arjuna's four brothers, all of whom have many other wives. Thus, while Sita experiences monogomy, Draupadi experiences polyandry and polygamy. </div>
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<h3>
Vengeance</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnHmzaCgSFxN6OI3XhqK8y1kqdTpsj6GVC0xhN6vgWDgTAOAe09xjyP4C2SII5QqUZIISt8m6RwQY_Dhb8xcQTxHGIbHLa51x5vF5CE2Y2cY0PbHMmamenRsl5sXlebrXdkLq1Mcal_xs/s1600/Shurpanakha+after+her+nose+was+cut+by+Lakshmana..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnHmzaCgSFxN6OI3XhqK8y1kqdTpsj6GVC0xhN6vgWDgTAOAe09xjyP4C2SII5QqUZIISt8m6RwQY_Dhb8xcQTxHGIbHLa51x5vF5CE2Y2cY0PbHMmamenRsl5sXlebrXdkLq1Mcal_xs/s400/Shurpanakha+after+her+nose+was+cut+by+Lakshmana..jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Shurpanakha after her nose was cut by Lakshmana </span></td></tr>
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<b>Sita</b> pays dearly for the actions of her husband and brother-in-law. She is abducted by the <i>Rakshasa</i>-king, Ravana, on grounds that her husband had mutilated his sister <i>Surpankha</i>. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpuN9XstgFl7Gn4X_Io51z4NhQadxy9DjfswfBzGbJge4_HuiNtEd3NKtQwf20UIMT9DxGew-mlwnbfT_FI8H4vTMooqJ1fUEKACVYLW4-1XPDfpT2LTDriyUScxbtnAUHE2AHYe2uoI2f/s1600/Duryodfhana_fall_into_water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpuN9XstgFl7Gn4X_Io51z4NhQadxy9DjfswfBzGbJge4_HuiNtEd3NKtQwf20UIMT9DxGew-mlwnbfT_FI8H4vTMooqJ1fUEKACVYLW4-1XPDfpT2LTDriyUScxbtnAUHE2AHYe2uoI2f/s400/Duryodfhana_fall_into_water.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Duryodhana slips into water</span></td></tr>
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<b>Draupadi</b> pays disproportionately for her own actions. She insults her husbands' cousin Duryodhana, the eldest Kaurava, when he falls in a pool of water calling him the blind son of a blind man, not realizing how oversensitive he was. As a result Duryodhana goes out of her way to publicly humiliate her, getting her husbands to wage her in a gambling match and having lost her, watch helplessly while he gets her dragged in front of in full of the court and proceeds to disrobe her. </div>
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Both <i>Sita</i> and <i>Draupadi</i> are feared by their abusers. Ravan fears forcing himself on Sita as there is talk of him losing his life if he touches an unwilling chaste woman. Duryodhana's father, the blind <i>Dhirtarashtra,</i> warned by Vidura, gives back to the Pandavas all that they have lost to the Kauravas in the gambling match when he hears Draupadi swear that she will not tie her hair until she washes it with the blood of her abusers.</div>
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Sita never screams vengeance but displays silent stoic confidence that her husband will rescue her. <i>Draupadi</i> Screams vengeance but doubts if her five husband will avenge her insult. She has reason to doubt them. They do not kill Jayadharata, the husband of her sister-in-law, even though he drags her out of her house onto his chariot determined to make her his concubine. They hesitate to kill Kichaka for fear of making their secret identities public when he abuses her in the final year of their exile when they all live as servants in the palace of king Virata.</div>
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When Ram finally rescues <i>Sita,</i> he reveals rather heartlessly that he is more worried about his family honor, and not her person, forcing her to prove her chastity while in captivity in Ravana's house by undergoing a trial by fire. There is never talk of Draupadi's chastity;but that she has five husbands often leads to accusations that she is public woman and not a queen.</div>
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In the final chapter, Sita is abandoned in the forest, banished from her husband's house as the public feels she is stain on royal reputation and unfit to be queen. She suffers silently. Ram however, never remarries, thus declaring his love for her. <i>Draupadi</i> gets her vengeance; her abusers are massacred and she washes her hair in their blood. But the joy of vengeance is short-lived.</div>
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<h3>
Children</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZgtofbcsAsV_KGTHaY2XBmpcr6Fq45J5KX7Zj7rakG0WLTLm6BbnIzjgCQuxXi7DuVd1uAoCU-TyFNv7fM15MkanRvrrP4it1kKxMt0KruvNhc8xgUKbOYQHD1WQ5-u0RRuysVGg6YSS/s1600/Sita-brought-up-her-children.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZgtofbcsAsV_KGTHaY2XBmpcr6Fq45J5KX7Zj7rakG0WLTLm6BbnIzjgCQuxXi7DuVd1uAoCU-TyFNv7fM15MkanRvrrP4it1kKxMt0KruvNhc8xgUKbOYQHD1WQ5-u0RRuysVGg6YSS/s400/Sita-brought-up-her-children.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sita gets the pleasure of raising her children and they do inherit Ram's kingdom. Draupadi, however, does not get the pleasure of raising her children; they are sent to the house of Krishna while she lives in exile in the forest with her husbands. All five are murdered by Drona's son who refuses to take defeat lying down. The kingdom of the Pandavas is passed on to the grandson of one of Arjuna's other wives. </div>
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<h3>
Death</h3>
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When Sita finally disappears under the earth refusing to rejoin her husband on his throne. Ram weeps and decides he cannot live on earth without her. He enters the river Sarayu and does not rise again. Draupadi; by contrast, dies a lonely death when she slips and falls down the slopes of the Himalayas; not one of her five husbands come to her rescue as her first husband, <i>Yudhishtira</i>, feels that having renounced the world they have to let go of all bondage.</div>
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<h3>
Goddesses</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYpVzWKWGp5EPrWoHf_xiSJ6wzzztIX6GnTvfDJmsu8M6FHAy9zyIVstC08ICS3p_AyTv1fJgAOs_23WzIgC4OQL3FUMLtFSXk7NoztPG5D6W4UU4vDi16-V5XPUKrizrpExMFWbZ3Eau/s1600/Sita+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYpVzWKWGp5EPrWoHf_xiSJ6wzzztIX6GnTvfDJmsu8M6FHAy9zyIVstC08ICS3p_AyTv1fJgAOs_23WzIgC4OQL3FUMLtFSXk7NoztPG5D6W4UU4vDi16-V5XPUKrizrpExMFWbZ3Eau/s400/Sita+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Deities of Sita (far right), Sri Rama (Center), Lakshmana (far left) <br />and Hanuman (below seated) at the Bhaktivedanta Manor in Watford, England. </span></td></tr>
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Both <i>Sita</i> and <i>Draupadi</i> are enshrined as Goddesses. Sita is more familiar sight in temples. She is the graceful Lakshmi, without whom Ram is never worshipped. <i>Draupadi</i> worship is popular in some parts of India as in North Tamil Nadu. There she is Amman, the mother-goddess, worshipped alone without any of her husbands, the fearsome Kali who drinks blood of her abusers. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRXC97ZPk0W8rm5e-jO5nH3mQMjcwjcMM2m2DkQJcpWLcGornC0WE9jdWEGtVa13ZlIlew1Ts2Y4RbTNCa_4ikqIB8h58AUTf11iNMyB2qA8CNKvETtjAPnSiUnuP7ZnTXjRZkChD7Myn/s1600/Draupati_Amman_idol_in_Udappu+%2560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRXC97ZPk0W8rm5e-jO5nH3mQMjcwjcMM2m2DkQJcpWLcGornC0WE9jdWEGtVa13ZlIlew1Ts2Y4RbTNCa_4ikqIB8h58AUTf11iNMyB2qA8CNKvETtjAPnSiUnuP7ZnTXjRZkChD7Myn/s400/Draupati_Amman_idol_in_Udappu+%2560.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Draupadi Amman Idol in Udappu, Sri Lanka.</span></td></tr>
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It is interesting to note that modern writers tend to project <i>Sita</i> more as a silent suffering victim and <i>Draupadi</i> more as a outspoken demanding heroine while traditional story tellers saw <i>Sita </i>as a person full of love, wisdom and patience and <i>Draupadi</i> as a glamorous intimidating diva. What everyone agrees with is that there can be no two characters more different from each other. </div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
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<i>Source: An article by Dr Devdutt Pattnaik</i></div>
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<i>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</i></div>
A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6784784215668333647.post-15934840619188636252016-01-15T19:43:00.002+05:302016-01-15T19:43:28.006+05:30How to accept the Choiceless?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> In our culture, the life of an individual is to be governed by the teaching of the Vedas. Vedas are otherwise known as </span><i style="text-align: justify;">sruti.</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> Therefore, an individual's life should be in keeping with the sruti, just as a musician's performance is in keeping with the</span><i style="text-align: justify;"> sruti</i><span style="text-align: justify;">.</span><br />
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If <i>sruti </i>is behind and the musician is aware of the <i>sruti,</i> the music will be enjoyable. Not only he himself enjoys, in the process, he gives enjoyment to others also. </div>
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If the sruti support is not there and the music becomes <i>apasruti,</i> not only if it is problem for him, it is terrible for other people also.</div>
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In the same way, if our life is governed by the sruti teaching, our life will be like music. Not only we enjoy, but other people also enjoy our presence.</div>
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If our life is not supported by the <i>sruti,</i> our life becomes <i>apasruti,</i> against <i>sastra,</i> it becomes a problem for us and more than that it becomes a problem for others also.</div>
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We do not know the origin of this <i>sruti.</i> It comes down to us as<i> parampara, anaadi parampara</i> - the author of it is unknown.</div>
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That is why they say, if it is a <i>sruti,</i> it is heard. From where it was heard, nobody knows.</div>
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Therefore, we say it is <i>apaurusheyam</i> - not created by human beings or we say it is a gift from the Lord himself.</div>
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<b>This <i>sruti</i> teaching can be broadly classified into two parts. </b></div>
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In the <b>first part of the <i>sruti </i></b>(of the Vedas) deals with our common problem in life. Every human being, while living faces a lot of situations by which it creates lot of mental problems, emotional strain, depression. </div>
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Only if you talk to an individual asking, "How are you", you know about it. If you ask in a place like bus stop, the answer will just "I am fine". But, if you go to his home or call him to your home over a cup of coffee, stories will come. It will be about daughter, son, daughter-in-law, son-in-law or other relatives.</div>
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This emotional problem is unique to human being. The animal don't face this problem. They don't feel separation from the children. They happily grow up and happily get separated. The cow does not cry on seeing its child go somewhere else.</div>
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The <b>first part of the Veda deals with the mental problem of a human being.</b> If we analyse, all our mental problems can be reduced to one basic problem. That is, we are not able to accept some of the situations, that we are facing. </div>
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If you take hatred, I hate a person because I am not able to accept his behaviour, character, way of life.</div>
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If you take anger, you find that it can be reduced to one problem. I am not able to accept my son's behaviour - therefore I am angry.</div>
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Take the problem of jealousy. It can reach down to one problem - I am not able to accept my neighbour's prosperity, neighbour's son getting first Rank and my son getting second or third.</div>
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<b> What is fear?</b> I am not able to accept the future, that may come to me.</div>
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If we analyse, all our mental problems can be reduced to one basic problem. That is, we are not able to accept some of the situations, that we are facing.</div>
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<b>What is fear?</b> One is not able to accept the future, that may come to oneself.</div>
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I don't want certain situations to come to me. And if it comes, I will not be able to accept. This non-readiness to accept a certain future situation is fear or anxiety.</div>
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My son is writing IIT examination. I am anxious - it means I will not be to accept that fact.</div>
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Thus, all our emotional problems can be traced to one fundamental problem. Certain situations in life, certain people in life, certain things in life, I am not able to accept. Now, Veda tries to give lot of <i>pariharams</i> for this point. In fact, varieties of rituals, <i>japa, tapas, puja,</i> pilgrimage are prescribed. Because Veda believe that many of the situations can be changed, cured and remedy is possible.</div>
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But Veda itself accepts one thing - for many situations remedies are there, there are many other situations for which remedy is not there.</div>
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That is why we divide our <i>Vidhi or Prarabdha</i> into two types - <i>durbala praabdha</i> and <i>prabala praarabdha. Durbala praarabdha</i> is a weaker problem or a weaker situation over which, I have control. I can use my free-will and work out a solution. </div>
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But there are certain types of <i>praarabdha</i> or <i>karmas,</i> which are stronger. Even if you do <i>puja</i>, pilgrimage or charity, astrology, palmistry, including black magic etc., it cannot be cured.</div>
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There are certain <i>aparihaara artha</i> - to use Krishna's expression for certain situations there is no remedy. </div>
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It is simple common sense that which cannot be cured, should be endured accepted. We don't require a great logic for this.</div>
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But here alone we face a problem. We know that we have to accept. All doors are closed and there is no other way out. Our intellect tells that, we have to accept. But our mind refuses to accept.</div>
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Verbally, we can say that we have to accept. But the mind is incapable of facing the situation, even though I know that I have to face. </div>
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It is illogical not to accept the situation. When such an emotion, frustration, depression, etc., comes, what is the logic behind that?</div>
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There is no logic behind frustration. Because, logically if you analyse, we should accept that.</div>
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This person alone fixed the son's or daughter's going abroad for higher studies and cries. He alone has fixed it and he is crying to part with the children. The person wants them to stay abroad. He knows very well that it is for the benefit of the daughter or son and he alone has planned it. But there is no logic behind his crying.</div>
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Any amount of logical arguments doesn't seem to be meaningful in such situations. The mind continues to have depression, frustration etc. where intellect itself fails to solve the emotional problem.</div>
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The mind continues to have depression, frustration etc., where the intellect itself fails to solve the emotional problem.<br />
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The intellect tells that there is no other way other than acceptance, but the mind is not ready to accept. Nothing can be done with respect to the situation. There is only one way, mind has to accept. If the mind is not able to accept what it has to accept, it only means that the mind is weaker.<br />
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All emotional problems are indications of not a weak intellect. Intellect is wonderful, sharp, brilliant, capable of even analyzing Vedanta. but has depression. Intellect is not weak or depressed. Mind is not strong enough to face what it has to face.<br />
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The only remedy is mind has to be strengthened. If you yourself can strengthen the mind, it is fine.<br />
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Otherwise, you gather strength from a source where the strength is available. This alone is called <i>saranagati, </i>surrender, devotion to the Lord.<br />
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Don't ask for any logic. When the emotional problem itself is illogical, I need not give you any logic for the solution. For faith, there is no logic.<br />
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For emotional non-acceptance, there is no logic. In the case of faith also, there is no logic. Even though it is logical, emotional problem is there. Even though there is no logic in faith, faith works.<br />
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For a non-logical problem, the solution given also happens to be non-logical.<br />
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Therefore, <b>Lord Krishna</b> tells in the Gita,<br />
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<i> Karmanyevadhkaraste ma phaleshu kadchana</i><br />
<i> ma karmaphalaheturbhu: maatesangostvakarmani</i><br />
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Then later he tells,<br />
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<i> mayi sarvaani karmani sanyasyadyaatmachetasaa</i><br />
<i> niraasheer nirmamo bhootvaa yudhyasva vigatajvarahe</i><br />
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<b>There is only one remedy - surrender to the Lord, who is an infinite source of strength.</b><br />
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<i> "O Lord, give me the strength to face or accept what cannot be changed."</i><br />
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The above prayer is not to solve our intellect problem, it is only to solve our emotional weakness. It is only to strengthen our emotional personality.<br />
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This is the entire Karma Kanda, the first portion of the Veda.<br />
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Religion helps to solve some of the problems, it also helps to accept the unsolvable problems.<br />
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Religion gives solutions to solve what can be solved; it also gives the strength to accept what cannot be solved.<br />
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Once a person has gathered sufficient emotional strength, he is able to accept the imp[act, the onslaught of lot of emotional strain.<br />
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Once the emotional problem is reduced to some extent, then intellectual problems begin to raise its hood.<br />
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When some problem arises, the mind asks the question, "Why should I get this problem?" I did not do any mistake.<br />
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There is a <b>tennis player</b>, who was the youngest to win the US Open Championship. She won it twice and she was having a wonderful future. At that time, she gets in a big accident. Some knee injury took place with which her future was totally wiped off. She cannot play any more and can only give commentaries.<br />
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In an interview she has said that "It was a terrible accident and I was unlucky to lose my knee. I was lucky enough at least to survive. And I am happy that people have accepted my glory etc.."<br />
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Finally there is a sentence in the interview that she spends a lot of time thinking "Why me?" Why should it happen to me?"<br />
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Whenever some accident happens, whenever a popular person dies, the mind raises this question, What is this all about? Why should that person who is all the time singing about the Lord's glory die? Why should that happen to a person, who is devotee of Swamiji?<br />
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What happens to <b>Karma</b>? What will happen to <b>rebirth</b>?<br />
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When such accidents happen, our intellect begins to question, "Why should this suffering come to me?<br />
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Everyone answers this question very simply. "Your Karma!".<br />
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This answers the question immediately, but if the person has got sufficient intellect, he will ask the question how did that Karma come? I have not done any papa. I have been nice person, a devotee going to temple regularly, I don't miss Guru Purnima.<br />
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We answer that it is all because of <i>purva janma karma </i>- results of actions done in previous births.<br />
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<i>Purva karma</i> came from last birth.<br />
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How did the last birth come?<br />
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Because of its last birth and so on.<br />
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How did this all happen?<br />
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Slowly the mind becomes philosophical. Once the emotional problems are solved to some extent, the intellectual or philosophical problems begins to occupy the mind.<br />
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I am not able to accept that everything is predetermined.<br />
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I ask the question, "Predetermined by whom"?<br />
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Someone says, "Predetermined by God?"<br />
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If we say <i><b>karma</b></i>, the question of first <i><b>karma</b></i> arises and we don't have an idea about that.<br />
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God determines that a musician should die in an accident? God determines that an innocent person should be killed by a terrorist? God determines that there should be a feminine in Africa? <br />
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If God determines all these, why should I accept that God? A sadistic terrible God, who kills all the people, who creates terrorists - why should I worship him?<br />
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Who is that God?<br />
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You raise questions about God or questions about the world or you begin to ask questions about your very life. If everything is predetermined, my effort has no meaning. Then why should I study or work? Because whether I should get a job or not is predetermined.<br />
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Why should I marry? Why should I get children.<br />
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We get into a philosophical question of why we live at all. All these struggles are only for dying.<br />
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If all unions are meant for separation, why union at all?<br />
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All growths are meant for declination, why grow at all?<br />
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Thus you find that the philosophical questions begin to occupy the mind, when emotional problems are solved.<br />
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To solve the philosophical questions like, what is the meaning of life, my achievements etc., the last portion of the <i>Veda</i> is there. It gives answers to our intellectual quest for the <b>fundamental questions of life</b>.<br />
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<b> Religion helps to solve or face our emotional problems. Philosophy helps to solve the intellectual, philosophical questions.</b><br />
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Once we have tackled both of them, the intellect subsidies with satisfaction. The mind will also be quiet either with the solution or acceptance. Then our life becomes smooth. This is in short, the content of the Vedas.<br />
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<h4>
Veda teach us indirect method to solve emotional and philosophical problems</h4>
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Even though <i><b>Veda</b></i> contains this wonderful treasures to solve the emotional and intellectual or philosophical problems. Veda teaches not in a direct method, but uses a very peculiar method. A method which cannot be directly understood. <br />
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So, we require a key to open the Veda and get its teaching.<br />
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A person planned to have a dinner in the beach. So, he carried the dinner and also the tomato sauce as side dish. But, he forgot to bring the opener to open the sauce bottle! You have side dish, but you cannot taste it.<br />
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Key to Vedas</h3>
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Similarly, Veda has got a solution for our emotional and intellectual problems. But unless we have the key we cannot open it. That key is <i>sampradaya - </i>method of teaching, unfoldment. This key also is coming down in the form of <i>Anadi parampara. </i>Just as Veda itself is <i>anaadi - </i>beginningless, the key to the Veda to Veda is also <i>anaadi.</i> Like some books which contain the questions as well as the key answers. <br />
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That key is called <i>mimamsa - purva mimamsa</i> is the key to the first portion of the veda. The <i>uttara mimamsa</i> is the key to the final portion. <i>Mimamsa</i> is the method of bringing out the teaching. The key has been maintained in the form of Guru - Sishya Parampara, which alone is expressed as<br />
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<i>narayanam padmabhvuam vashishtam....</i><br />
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<i> </i>Narayana is the Adiguru, not only of the Veda, but the opener also. The food is Veda, the opener is <i>mimamsa.</i><br />
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Even though it is coming down in the form of traditional teaching, the credit of putting the <i>vedas </i>and the <i>mimasa </i>is written form - that credit goes to <i><b>Vyasacharya.</b></i><br />
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Even though it started from it started from Narayana, Vyasacharya gets the glory - a pioneer in which he has uncolded the <i>purvamimasa</i> portion in the form of Dharma Sastra - which is there in all the <i>puranas</i> and in the Vyasa Smriti etc., he has brought out the <i>purva bhaga of the Veda.</i><br />
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He has equally contributed to the final portion of the vedas in the form of Brahma Sutras. It is called Uttara mimamsa sultrani or Vyasa Sutrani or Badarayana Sutrani. They deal with the deeper philosophial problems and intellectual problems. When a person is emotionally depressed, one should not teach Brahma Sutram. You have to tell him a parihara to overcome the situation.<br />
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That is why <i>sanyasi</i> has two things. To a depressed person, he gives <i>vibhuti </i>- holy ash and a few words of moral support and prayers. The moment a person receives the <i>prasadam </i>and the words, he is feeling peaceful. There is logical explanation to emotional problems. When a person comes with intellectual quest and is emotional cool and ready, then sanyyasi teaches him the Upanishads. <i>Vysacharya</i> has contributed to the solution of emotional and intellectual problems. Thus, <b>Vyasa</b> is considered as an important Guru.<br />
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<i>Source: From the Guru Purnima Talks 1992 delivered by Swami Paramarthananda</i><br />
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A.S.AYYAVUhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03263579978983995271noreply@blogger.com0