Aarshavaani January 2021
Aarshavaani January 2021
GURUVĀṆI
Following Dharma always is not an easy
path. If so, everyone would have done
that very easily. Therefore, those who
follow Dharma should be ready to face
hardships, insult, and at times depression
too. One should use such times to
intensify one’s sādhana with tapas, while
still strictly adhering to Dharma with
grit, patience, and above all absolute
confidence in the judgement and grace of
the Supreme Lord. Without any doubt,
one shall not only attain thunderous
victory and success in all the endeavors,
but also shall become role models for
many ages to come.
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
Dakṣiṇābhimukhaṁ – This sign symbolizes the ability to give knowledge. One acquires knowledge with the
worship of Kuja. Muttuswāmi Dīkṣitār, who was bestowed the grace of Guruguha, described about Kuja in his
Navagraha compositions as ‘Divyaughādi gurukaṭākṣānugrahapātraṁ’ i.e. the grace of Kuja bestows the grace of
Divyaugha, Siddhaugha , and Mānavaugha congregations of Gurus.
Everyone who breathes the air and sustains on the food provided by this Earth has their part of the responsibility.
They should shed their negligence, leave off unethical practices and take precautionary measures to prevent
pollution near the surroundings of their motherland. It is a mistake to neglect thinking what would happen if only
one individual works with this attitude. It is completely wrong and insecure if everyone adopts the same negligent
attitude!
‘Patriotism’ is not a necessity that has to be borne only during wars or the rule of the enemies. It should
be an awareness and consciousness that should remain ever burning within us.
Our wayward inattentiveness and selfishness can sometimes lead to great loss for the nation. Because there is no
patriotism in every heart, so many scams and scandals are seen all around!
Reverence towards the Motherland danced as ‘Vande Mataram’ song on the tongues of this nation. This became the
supreme mantra for achieving independence.
A country is not just soil. It is the culture blossoming in this soil for generations together and its magnificence. Like
a child, one should adore the Mother along with her history. It is good fortune that our country’s great history is
replete with sacredness. This history established universal values and truths ages ago.
Devotion towards Motherland is nothing but the responsibility to preserve that lineage along with the
expansive progress that is happening today.
Our ancestors repeatedly mention that Sri Ramachandra told that there is no difference between Mother
and Country and Motherland is superior even to heaven – ‘jananī janma bhūmiśca svargādapī garīyasī’.
If this respect and devotion towards the Motherland is not instilled and cultivated in the children during their
childhood, they can never connect to this country. Once they lose the relationship, there is danger of them
neglecting their responsibility towards their motherland!
(On the occasion of 71st Bhāratadēśa Gaṇatantra Dinōtsavaṁ - January 26, 2021 )
2. prāṇāpānasamānānāmudānavyānayōstathā |
annaṁ puṣṭikaraṁ cāstu mamāpyavyāhataṁ sukhaṁ ||
There are many evidences that Sanātana Dharma was spread all over the world ages ago and diminished gradually in
some regions giving place to other faiths. Recently, in USA, a Śiva Linga was found during the excavation to construct
a new home. There are many other incidents and proofs similar to this all around the world.
Some Pitr̥ūs are not embodied, while some are. Those who are embodied can fulfill any desires. One should perform
the devout worship of Pitr̥ūs during the second half of the lunar month i.e., Kr̥ṣṇa Pakṣa. Though Pitr̥ūs are worshipped
daily, special worship is done on the day of Amāvāsya i.e., New Moon day and during the Mahālayā Pakṣa.
1. Offer sacred oblations in fire. Those offered to Pitr̥ūs are called ‘Kavya’, whereas those offered to gods are called
‘Havya’.
2. Offer balls of rice called ‘Piṇḍa’ on darbha grass along with proper mantras.
3. Worship devout Viprās, treat them as representatives of Pitr̥ūs, and offer them food, water, clothes etc.
It is important to note that all three have to be done following the stipulations as demanded by the occasion. All
three certainly reach Pitr̥ūs. While oblations offered in the fire reach Pitr̥ūs in some worlds, rice balls offered satiate
Pitr̥ūs in some other worlds, and offering food to some here in this world satisfies some other Pitr̥ūs in some other
worlds.
Those Pitr̥ūs who remain in hell due to their deeds here on earth shall not receive any of the three mentioned above.
For those Pitr̥ūs, it is mentioned that one should offer ‘Kāka Piṇḍa’ i.e., offer Piṇḍa to a crow. Only this reaches those
present in hell.
It is sheer ignorance and lack of knowledge if one thinks that one is offering oblations or rice balls etc. only to one’s
father, grandfather, and great grandfather. The offerings made to Pitr̥ūs in different ways reach different Pitr̥ūs as
mentioned above and satisfies everyone thereby fulfilling the desires of the devout performer. One’s existence in this
world is connected to all these Pitr̥ūs. Hence, it is the responsibility of an individual to perform the Karmas stipulated
for Pitr̥ūs with devotion and faith.
Those who worship the Pitr̥ūs are protected by them from all directions.
agniṣvāttā barhiṣada ājyapā: sōmapāstathā |
vrajantu tr̥ptim śrāddhēsmin pitarastarpitā mayā ||
‘Agniṣvāttā’, ‘Barhiṣada’, ‘Ājyapā:’, and ‘Sōmapā’ are the Pitr̥ūs who are satisfied with the offering of oblations.
agniṣvāttā: pitr̥gaṇā: prācīm rakṣantu mē diśaṁ |
tathā barhiṣada: pāntu yāmyāṁ mē pitara: sadā ||
‘Agniṣvāttā’ protects me on the East. ‘Barhiṣada’ protects me on the South.
pratīcīmājyapānta dvadudīcimapi sōmapā: |
rakṣō bhūta piśācēbhya stathaivāsura dōṣataḥ: ||
sarvata: pitarō rakṣām kurvantu mama nityaśa: ||
‘Ājyapā:’protects me on the West and ‘Sōmapā’ protects me on the North. Let Pitr̥ūs protect me always on all sides
from all ghost, demons, and other evils present in microcosm!
(To be continued…)
MĀRGAŚĪRA MĀSAṀ
January 2, 2021 - Saturday - Saṅkaṣṭahara Caturthi - Fast all day, worship Ganapati in the
evening, offer steam cooked rice balls, sweet balls etc., and give arghya to Ganapati, Chandra,
and Chaturthi tithi at moonrise time, and then partake prāsādam. Observing of this Vrata
removes all hindrances and fulfills desires.
January 6, 2021 - Wednesday – Budhāṣṭami alabhyayōgaṁ - The combination of Wednesday and aṣṭami tithi
is rare. Any acts of charity, japa etc., done on this day yield infinite merits.
January 9, 2021 - Saturday - Saphala Ēkādaśi - Fasting and worship of Vishnu on this day not only removes
the effect of evils, but also bestows the grace of Narayana.
January 11, 2021 - Monday- Māsa Śivarātri - Performing Abhishekam to Śiva on this day is preeminent in this
month, in which the star Mrigasira is important.
January 12, 2021 - Tuesday - Vivēkānanda Jayanti, kr̥ṣṇaṅgāraka caturdaśi –Birthday of Swami Vivekananda,
who hoisted the flag of Bhāratadēśa Sanskr̥ tī all around the world, is the auspicious occasion for everyone to
reminisce him and dedicate to do their part of the duty with his inspiration. Because of the combination of
Tuesday with the tithi caturdaśi in Kr̥ṣṇapakṣa, this day is divine and rare. Worship of Gaṇapati, Subrahmaṇya
and Aṅgāraka on this day bestows Kuja’s grace quickly, removes the afflictions of disease, debt, and grants
worldly comforts.
PUṢYA MĀSAṀ
January 13, 2021 – Wednesday – Bhōgi The day being Bhōgi, Indra and chosen deities should
be worshipped. A Bhōgi fire is lit either in front of home or at junctions with dried sticks and
cow dung cakes chanting the name of God. Traditionally, Cow dung is made into flat cakes
and are put into fire by children. This not only destroys evil forces, but also grants prosperity.
Because Gōdā Dēvi tapas fructified on this day, Gōdā Kalyānam is performed on this day.
January 14, 2021 – Thursday - Makara Saṅkrānti- Uttarāyaṇa Begins- Sankrānti is occurring at 8:15 am in
Śravaṇa star. Time is holy from 8:15 a.m. to 5:50 p.m. Very sacred time is from 8.15 am to 10.21 am.
Sun enters into Makara zodiac today. Uttarāyaṇa begins from today. Any chanting of mantra,
doing japa, meditation, pārāyaṇa, offering in charity etc. yield great merits. Performing tarpaṇa
for departed ancestors grants them exalted state, leads to prosperity in clan, and bestows
happiness and joy.
‘ravi saṅkramaṇē prāptē na snāyādyāstu mānava, saptajanma surōgasyāt nirdhanaścaiva jāyatē’
One should certainly perform bath as stipulated on the day of Saṅkramaṇa. One should
offer paddy, fruits, fan, clothes, gold, vegetables, roots, sesame, sugarcane, cow etc. in
charity on this day. One should light lamp with sesame oil in front of Śiva and worship
Śiva with mixture of rice and sesame seeds. Scriptures stipulate that sesame seeds should
be consumed in one or other form. One should partake only one meal today.
January 15, 2021 – Friday – Kanuma, Paśupūja, Gurumauḍhyārambhaṁ - Worship of harvest,
livestock, cows etc. as the embodiment of wealth goddess Lakṣmi is the distinction of this day.
The power of sustenance present in cows and bulls is worshipped as the form of God.
January 16, 2021 – Saturday - Mukkanuma - This day is dedicated to livestock. Like
Kanuma, one should worship cows on this day also.
January 24, 2021 - Sunday - Putradā Ēkādaśi – Ritual observance of this Ēkādaśi vrata bestows progeny for
the childless and long life and prosperity of the children present.
January 25, 2021 - Monday - Kūrma Dvādaśi - Worship of Śri Mahā Viṣṇu on this Dvādaśi day bestows beauty
of body and mind along with pleasure and happiness. Worship of Nārāyaṇa in the form of ‘Kūrma’, the great
turtle, grants knowledge.
January 31, 2021 - Sunday – Saṅkaṣṭahara caturthi - Ritual observance of this first Saṅkaṣṭahara caturthi in
Uttarayana removes all vighnas and brings happiness.
This festival is intertwined with family, society, traditions, spirituality, worship practices
etc. It is more related to culture of Bhāratadēśa rather than to a specific religion. Let’s all
celebrate the glorious heritage and culture of Bhāratadēśa by celebrating and participating
in all these festivals and thereby earn the grace of the God for ourselves and our country!
- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma
Puṣya Lakṣmī
Śrī Lakṣmī Sahasranāma Stōtraṁ venerates Divine Mother Lakṣmī as
‘Dharā’, ‘Dharādhāra’. ‘Dharā’ means that which holds everything.
Another meaning of ‘Dharā’ is Mother Earth, also called ‘Vasundharā’.
Not only Earth holds us all, She also provides all the affluence in the
form of harvest for sustenance, in the form of many precious metals and
other materials for pleasure, and finally provides the final resting place
allowing to dissolve into Her lap. This month, She is worshipped as
‘Puṣya Lakṣmī’ signifying the bounty of produces blessed upon the
entire humanity. It is important to note that Lakṣmī is not just the form
of ‘Dharā’, She is ‘Dharādharā’ i.e. one who sustains even the earth and
is the basis for the earth too. Here, the supreme tattva of Divine Mother
that is beyond the seen five elements is expounded.
Copyright © 2020 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 6 – January | 2021 10
Mantras in Vēdās and some Purāṇās described in great detail about those who prostrate to Sūrya staying around
Him. Elucidating the same in ‘Āditya Stōtraratnaṁ’, Śrī Appayya Dīkṣitulu said –
ādityairapsarōbhi rmunibhi rahivarairgrāmaṇī yātudhānai: |
gandharvairvālakhilyai: parivr̥ta daśamānśasya kr̥tsnaṁ rathasya ||
madhyaṁ vyāpyādhitiṣṭhan maṇirivanabhasō maṇḍalaścaṇḍa raśmē: |
brahmajyōtirvivarta: śrutinikara ghanībhāvarūpa: samindhē ||
Above is the description of ‘Āditya Maṇḍala’. Around the zone of Sun, seven Gaṇās namely
Ādityās, Apsarās, Munīs, Sarpās, Grāmaṇās, Rākṣasās, and Gandharvas along with
Vālakhilyās are present. Each Gaṇa contains twelve members. Hence, a total of 84 gods
prostrate to Sūrya at the time of His rise.
Ādityās – These are the twelve Ādityās that came from Sūrya. They are Dhāta, Aryama, Mitra, Ambupa (Varuṇa),
Vāsava (Indra), Vivasvanta, Parjanya, Pūṣa, Anśuvu, Gabhastimān, Tvaṣṭa, Viṣṇu.
Apsarās - Kr̥tasthala, Pun̄jikasthala, Mēnaka, Sahajanya, Pramlōcantī, Śucismita, Ghr̥tāci, Viśvāci, Ūrvaśi, Pūrvacitti,
Tilōttama, Rambha. These all are principal deities of spirits. In scientific parlance, they all are different aspects of
solar energy performing different functions. In the idiom of gods, they all are Dēvatās.
Munīs – Pulastya, Pulaha, Atri, Vaśiṣṭha, Angirasa, Bhr̥ugu, Bharadwāja, Gautama, Kaśyapa, Kratuvu, Jamadagni,
Kauśika.
Sarpās - Vāsuki, Kaṅkarīka, Takṣaka, Nāga, Yēlāputra, Śaṅkhapāla, Airāvata, Dhanan̄jaya, Agramahāpadma,
Karkōṭaka, Kambala, Aśvatara. All these clans of serpents are worshipped as Nāga Dēvatās.
Grāmaṇās - Rathakr̥t, Rathaujassu, Rathacitra, Rathasvana, Srōta, Aruṇa, Suṣēna, Sēnajit, Tārkṣya, Ariṣṭanēmi,
Rathajit, Satyajit. All these are Yakṣās.
Yāthudhānās – Rākṣasās or Asurās are also an essential part of the divine play in the universe. They also are distinct
features of solar energy. One should not think immediately that they are wicked. There are many nobles born in the
race of demons such as Prahlāda, Virōcana, emperor Bali etc. In Śrīmad Bhagavad Gīta, Kr̥ṣṇa told that He is Prahlāda
among demons. They are Rakṣōhēti, Prahēti, Pauruṣēya, Vadha, Sarpa, Vyāghra, Cāpa, Vāta, Vidyut, Divākara,
Brahmōpēta, Yajñōpēta. All these play their role in orchestration of universe.
Gandharvas - Tumbura, Nārada, Hāhā, Hūhū, Viśvāvasu, Ugrasēna, Vararuci, Sarvāvasu, Citrasēna, Ūrṇāyu,
Dhr̥tarāṣṭra, Sūryavacassu.
Countless Vālakhilyās are present. They earned the distinction of staying in Sūrya Maṇḍala with their tapas. One
from each Gaṇa serves Sūrya throughout the year.
There is scriptural substantiation for the word ‘Dēvāsura Namaskr̥ta’. Great poet Srīnātha described as below -
siddhānta sansiddhi siddha saṅghambunu | vidhyukta paripāṭi vibudhakōṭi ||
cāṭudhāraprauḍhi jāraṇavyūhambu | kinnera vrātambu gītasaraṇi ||
khacara saṅghamu viśr̥ṅkhala vacō vaicitri | yātudhāna śrēṇi yadhika bhakti
garuḍalōkamu namaskāra vākyambuna | nēkāgramati daṇḍaśūka samiti ||
pratidinambunu prātarārambhavēḷa | nirṇi bandhana nirupādhi niravagādha ||
nirṇirōdha nirāghāṭa nirupamāna | bhakti sambhajiyinturī padmabandhu || (Kāśī Khaṇḍam)
All the clans of gods mentioned above worship Sūrya. All are blessed with the vision of ‘Parama Puruṣa’ present
therein.
ākāśamadhyasthamagu bhānu bimbambu | vinu lakṣayōjana vistr̥tambu ||
tanmadhyamanduna dhavaḷānśu śēkharu | sudgītha vidyā prayōga saraṇi ||
haimarūpuḍu hiraṇya śmaśrukēśuḍu | hastapramukha hiraṇyāvayavum̐ḍu ||
gāgabhāvin̄ci yā kamalalōcanuḍuṇḍu | (Kāśī Khaṇḍam)
That ‘Parama Puruṣa’ present in Āditya Maṇḍala is gold in color from the tip of the toe to the tip of the hair. Upaniṣad
described Him as ‘āpraṇakhāt sarva yēva suvarṇa:’ and ‘hiraṇmaya vapu:’. He is the unified embodiment of
Brahma, Viṣṇu, Śiva, and all the gods. Let’s pray Him to bestow grace!
(Adapted from ‘Suryārādhana’ Pravachanam)
➢ Viṣṇu Pan̄cāyatana – Viṣṇu in center, Śiva in Northeast (Īśānya), Gaṇapati in Southeast (Āgnēya), Sūrya in
Southwest (Nairuti), and Ambika in Northwest (Vāyavya)
➢ Sūrya Pan̄cāyatana – Sūrya in center, Viṣṇu in Northeast (Īśānya), Gaṇapati in Southeast (Āgnēya), Śiva in
Southwest (Nairuti), and Ambika in Northwest (Vāyavya)
➢ Śakti Pan̄cāyatana – Ambika in center, Viṣṇu in Northeast (Īśānya), Śiva in Southeast (Āgnēya), Gaṇapati in
Southwest (Nairuti), and Sūrya in Northwest (Vāyavya)
➢ Gaṇapati Pan̄cāyatana – Gaṇapati in center, Viṣṇu in Northeast (Īśānya), Śiva in Southeast (Āgnēya), Sūrya in
Southwest (Nairuti), and Ambika in Northwest (Vāyavya)
Above mentioned arrangement(s) are purely on personal choice and devotion. This is only to emphasize the truth
that the chosen deity is also all the other four deities. Symbolic representations for these gods are obtained from
different rivers.
➢ Śiva - Bāṇa Liṅga from River Narmada
➢ Viṣṇu – Sālagrāma from River Ganḍaki (Nepal)
➢ Sūrya – Sphaṭika from Saurashtra
➢ Gaṇapati – Red stone from River Śōṇa
➢ Ambika – Dhātu stone from River Suvarṇamukhi
Presence of the effulgence of aforementioned deities is natural in all the above representations. Therefore, regular
worship is essential. All these are highly efficacious. Worship of Pan̄cāyatana is called ‘Dēvatārcana’. This regular
worship has to be done daily along with Sandhyāvandana by those who had the Samskāra of Upanayana. Even
Upanayana is not done, devout Hindus can arrange the idols of those gods in the prescribed arrangement and
perform the worship. Idols should be made with precious metals such as gold, silver, brass, five metal alloys etc.
Some scriptures mention that Pan̄cāyatana is the worship of the radiance of ONE PARAMĒŚVARA in five forms.
Hence, the effulgence of Paramēśvara in earth, water, fire, air, and ether is Gaṇapati, Viṣṇu, Sūrya, Śiva, and Śakti
respectively. There might be different opinions about the order.
Explanation: The Supreme Consciousness is present in all the five elements. This universe filled with these five
elements is Pan̄cāyatana. Entire universe is pervaded with Parabrahma. Universe within us i.e. Pinḍānḍā and
universe outside of us i.e. Brahmānḍa – Both are Pan̄cāyatana. Expounding that all these five tattvas are the five
forms of ONE PARAMĒŚVARA is the inherent meaning.
Another thing to note is that there is no mention of Skanda in Pan̄cāyatana worship. Then, how
is Subrahmaṇya embedded into this worship? It is well known that there used to be regular
agnihōtra along with Dēvatārcana in many homes till even few years ago. Since ‘Yagāgni’ i.e.
sacred fire is Subrahmaṇya itself, it is not mentioned separately in Pan̄cāyatana. As regular
agnihōtra has become scarce now, the idol of Subrahmaṇya can be put along with Pan̄cāyatana
near Śiva, Śakti, or Gaṇapati. In the words of Kanci Mahāswāmi Śrī Śrī Śrī Candraśēkharēndra
Saraswati, the lamp lit before the worship represents agnihōtra and Subrahmaṇya.
– Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(Adapted from ‘Samadhanam’ Book 2)
Link to Samadhanam Book
- Is it due to caste differences? This is not correct, as the caste differences are not leaving even after the conversion!
- A hallucination like ‘All religions are one! What is lost if God is someone else?’ is one reason. A lack of
understanding about one’s own Dharma – A big reason.
- Lack of self pride about one’s own religion like ‘My religion is great. It’s like Mother. Many exalted thoughts such
as Tattva inquiry, Dharma, Conduct etc. are innate in my religion.
- Other reason is elders who are not following the traditions and customs and passing them on the children.
- Another reason is the mind getting tempted towards evil looking at lures.
- Neither teaching nor knowledge about our culture, great books etc. in the educational system is also a facilitator.
This is the moment, when everyone respecting Hindu Dharma and aspiring for the welfare of the country, should come
forward on a large scale like the freedom movement. Let the Supreme Lord bestow that presence of mind, rigorous
application, and success to Hindu Community!
- Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma.
(December 2020 Editorial ‘Rushipeetham’ Monthly Magazine)
Sri Adi Sankara does not belong to any sect. He is the ‘Samanvaya Karta’
(harmonizer) of the holistic Bharateeyata and Sanatana Dharma in totality.
PART 25
‘ātmavat sarva bhūtāni’ i.e. It is the same ‘Self’ present within all the beings. If one is truly able to see only the ‘Self’
present within everyone, how can one have friend or enemy? Then, one is beyond the duals. Reaching such state which
is beyond the duals is liberation or ‘Mōkṣa’, because one does not have any association with anyone outside or even with
oneself. Because a friend or enemy is always referred as ‘Mama Mitra:’ or ‘Mama Śatrū:’ i.e. ‘My Friend’ or ‘My Enemy’.
When one overcomes the emotions of friend or enemy or association or hatred, one gradually overcomes ‘My’ and
‘Mine’.
Śrī Kr̥ṣṇa said in Śrīmad Bhagavadgīta Chapter 18 Ślōka 20 -
sarva bhūtēṣu yēnaikaṁ bhāvam avyayamīkṣatē | avibhaktaṁ vibhaktēṣu tad jñānaṁ viddhi sāttvikam ||
Understand that knowledge to be in the mode of goodness by which a person sees the ‘One Undivided Imperishable Reality’
within ‘All Diverse Living Beings’.
Diversity is the way of the world. There is equality, of course, only in ashes. What Śrī Kr̥ṣṇa is mentioning here to realize
and recognize the ‘One Whole Self’ present within ‘Multiplicity of Beings’ present around. One who reached that state
is ‘Jñāni’. One making effort to reach that state is a noble Sādhaka. It is not possible to obtain that realization and attain
that state instantaneously. One should do spiritual practice keeping this truth in view all the time, which aids one to
reach such state gradually over a period of time.
kāmaṁ krōdhaṁ lōbhaṁ mōhaṁ | tyaktvātmānaṁ paśyati sōhaṁ ||
ātmā jñānaṁ vihīnā mūḍhā: | tē pacyantē narakāni gūḍhā: ||
Having given up lust, anger, greed, and delusion, the seeker sees in the Self, ‘I am He’. They are fools who have no knowledge
about the Self. They are subjected to pain and misery.
Many speak about ‘Ātmā Jñānaṁ’ or ‘Brahma Jñānaṁ’ without any experience, nay even fundamental understanding.
Śrī Ādi Śaṅkara said the tongue of those who just attempt to preach but neither practice nor experience should be cut.
This does not mean that immediately one should set out holding a knife in hand. What Śrī Ādi Śaṅkara means here is
dry talk would not yield anything. As mentioned above, one should practice first with ‘Vivēka’ and ‘Vairāgya’ leaving
out lust, anger, greed, delusion and others, go through all the stages, realize the truth, and finally experience the
Supreme Brahman gradually.
Here, Śrī Śaṅkara says that those who do not have the knowledge of the ‘Self’ are ‘Mūḍhā:’ i.e., fools, for they go through
the torture of pain and sorrow.
gēyaṁ gītā nāmāsahasraṁ | dhyēyaṁ śrīpati rūpamajasraṁ ||
nēyaṁ sajjana saṅgē cittaṁ | dēyaṁ dīna janāya ca vittaṁ ||
One should chant Śrīmad Bhagavadgīta and Nāmā Sahasraṁ of Viṣṇu. One should contemplate upon the form of the Lord
of Lakṣmi. One should engage in the company of the virtuous. One should distribute one’s wealth among the needy.
Śrī Ādi Śaṅkara wrote detailed exposition on both Śrīmad Bhagavadgīta and Viṣṇu Sahasranāma. Both are very intimate
to His heart. Here, Jagadguru Śrī Śaṅkara is showing simple and direct path for every Sādhaka to obtain the Supreme.
• Sing Śrīmad Bhagavadgīta and Viṣṇu Sahasranāma – This does not mean one has to tune and sing in some musical
rāgās. One should sing with sincere love towards God and of course with devotion.
• Contemplate on the form of Śrīpati – Concentrate on the auspicious and divine form of the Bhagavān Viṣṇu.
• Keep the mind in the company of the virtuous – One should do this with effort. It is important to note how many
times Jagadguru Śrī Ādi Śaṅkara is emphasizing the significance of ‘Satsang’.
• Perform charity – This does not mean one has to do charity beyond one’s means. At the same time, it is essential
that one reaches out to the needy and performs charity within acceptable levels irrespective of the receiver’s caste,
creed or religion. The only eligibility should be the true need. Charity should never be done keeping in mind the
merits or fame to be obtained thereby.
After returning from United States, Swami Vivekananda served the people affected by plague in Calcutta along with his
friends. In fact, the very statement ‘Serving the needy is serving the Lord’ i.e., ‘Mānava Sēvayē Mādhava Sēva’ is coined
by Swami Vivekananda. An incident during the lifetime of Sri Ramakrishna is an inspiration for the many service
activities undertaken by Swami Vivekananda and Sri Ramakrishna Mission later. A gentleman visiting Sri Ramakrishna
said, ‘It would be great to help the people in need, the destitute, and the sufferers.’ Sri Ramakrishna said, ‘What a wrong
statement! Who are we to HELP? Only the Supreme Lord can help. We can only SERVE i.e., do Sēva.
These words of Sri Ramakrishna remained engraved in the heart of Swami Vivekananda. He told the story of Rantideva
countless times to his foreign listeners and further added that charity is a way of life in Bhāratadēśa.
That state is the ‘State of Immortality’. This state is understood only by experience, never by explanation and
simple spiritual observances. In fact, that is ‘Jīvanmukti’ i.e. liberated while still present in body.
As said in ‘Urvārukamiva Bandhanāt’, the being is separated effortlessly from death like a ripe cucumber gets
separated from the creeper and reaches the state of immortality with eternal happiness.
Describing about the emperors of Raghu dynasty, the great poet Kāḷidāsa summarized all the above in just one
ślōka –
VIJÑĀNAṀ -24
SLOKA OF THE MONTH
1. What is the worship of Śiva, Ambika, Sūrya, Gaṇapati, and Viṣṇu together is
namastē brahma rūpāya called?
namastē viṣṇu rūpiṇē 2. What is the actual meaning of the Telugu word ‘Gobbillu’?
namastē rudra rūpiṇē 3. Which planet is called Mangaḷa and Aṅgāraka?
bhāskarāya namō namaḥ!! 4. What is the tree that gives the fruit of ‘Tattva’?
5. What is the ritual represented by Śrī Yajña Varāha Swāmi?
6. Who is present in Āditya Maṇḍala in gold color from the tip of the toe to the
tip of the hair?
7. Who is called Dharmaśāsta?
8. Per Bhaviṣyōttara Purāṇa, how many times should one perform circum-
ambulation to God to obtain grace?
WORDS OF 9. Who are the two performing tapas in Badari born as Krṣṇa and Arjuna?
BENEVOLENCE 10. Who is the father of Nandi?
M U L T I P L I C A T I O N B Y 125
Hint: 1 2 5 X 8 = 1 0 0 0
Here we divide the given number by 8. Before that, put 3 zeros at end of the given number and divide it by 8.
According to divisibility rules, we know that if a number ends with 3 zeros, that number will be divisible by 8. So
Quotient is our Answer.
Example 1 : 1 7 5 X 1 2 5
Divide 1 7 5 0 0 0 / 8 = 2 1 8 7 5
Example 2 : 4 1 3 2 X 1 2 5
Divide 4 1 3 2 0 0 0 / 8 = 5 1 6 5 0 0
M U L T I P L I C A T I O N S – URVDHA TIRYAGBHYAM
Example 1 : 1 2 X 3 4 = ? 1 2
X 3 4
- - -
1. The product of the numbers can be obtained in three stages.
a. Units place with units place
b. Units place with 10’s place and 10’s place with units.
c. 10’s place with 10’s place.
2. Units place with units place.
The digits 2 in the units place of the first number 12 has to be multiplied with the digit 4 in the units place of
the second number 34. (Vertical Multiplication)
↑ 2
4
8
3. Units place with 10’s place and 10’s place with units place.
Multiple the digits cross wise as shown below and add them
5. Present Status:
6. Result = 1 2 X 3 4 = 4 0 8
Krishna Speaks
Krishna began speaking. He addressed Dhritarashtra by saying that the greatest royal house in all of Bharatadesa
at the time was the Kurus. Krishna said that the great name of that house was getting destroyed because of
Dhritarashtra. He told Dhritarashtra that he would never get protectors like the Pandavas who never acted against
him. Krishna says that if half of the kingdom was being ruled by Yudhishtira, and the other half was ruled by
Duryodhana, then Dhritarashtra could be very happy. He also says that no matter who dies in the war, Dhritarashtra
could not be happy. He tells Dhritarashtra that in his old age he should be friendly with his nephews. Krishna then
tells the word of the Pandavas, saying that he was the elder brother of their father, they asked that he fulfill his
word of returning the kingdom after successful twelve years of forest stay and one year of exile. The Pandavas ask
that he follow his word as they followed his. They also say that they were willing to serve him as his sons, but they
were also willing to fight in a war. They asked Dhritarashtra to decide what he wants.
Duryodhana speaks
Duryodhana became extremely angered by these words but spoke in a seemingly calm manner saying, that he did
not see what his fault was. He claimed that everyone was blaming him but that he could not see what his perceived
slight was. He claims that the Pandavas liked to play dice so they did. Shakuni also played on his behalf. In the
game, Pandavas lost. So, they went into the forest as per the agreed bet of the game. He says that he will not leave
his Dharma and would not bow his head down to them out of fear of their army or allies. He claims that no part of
the kingdom was theirs to begin with and that when they were younger Dhritarashtra gave Indraprastha to them,
but he would not give it back to them. He claimed that he would not give even the amount of tip on top of a sharp
needle to the Pandavas claiming that everything was his.
Duryodhana’s sins
Krishna became extremely angry at this and began listing out all of Duryodhana’s faults. He says that all
Duryodhana ever did was make mistakes. He says that when they were young, he tried to poison Bheema and throw
him in the river, then he put them in the lac palace and tried to burn them down. Later on, when Pandavas worked
hard to get their wealth, he became jealous and had Shakuni play dice with them to steal everything. After that
game of dice, he had his own sister-in-law, a chaste woman (Sadhvi) dragged to the court and tried to disrobe her.
Along with that Duryodhana and Karna said so many things that should not be spoken in a court. What should
be noted here is that Paramathma does not forgive people who insult women. Krishna then continues by
saying that after doing all this Duryodhana was now placing all the blame onto the Pandavas. He says that placing
blame on the blameless was another sin. Krishna says that if Duryodhana did not give the Pandavas their kingdom
then he would be forced to give it to them when he was lying dead on the battleground. Krishna ends by saying
that those who insult elders, are fools, and step outside Dharma have no future. Duryodhana gets up and leaves the
court at that time. Leaving a court while it was in session was considered uncharacteristic and Duryodhana left the
court like an uncivilized man. Along with him Karna, Dushasanna along with some others also left.
(To be continued...)
Copyright © 2020 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 6 – January | 2021 20
Louis Vuitton yoga mat made of leather draws Hindu December 22,
2020 Boston Rajan Zed, President of the Universal Society of Hinduism,
SANATANA DHARMA
called on luxury goods maker Louis Vuitton to pull a yoga mat made partly
from cowhide leather, calling it “Hugely insensitive.” In a statement, he said
that the mat from a killed cow is “Highly inappropriate” to Yoga practicing
Hindus, who regard cows as sacred symbols of life. He further added, “The
scenario of Yoga — a profound, sacred and ancient discipline introduced
and nourished by Hinduism — being performed on a mat made from a
AROUND THE WORLD
killed cow is very painful,” Zed said.
Sri Lanka Military and police crack down on Kartikai Deepam festival
December 3, 2020 Colombo Sri Lanka Military along with Police cracked down on the celebrations of Karthikai
Deepam traditionally celebrated over many years saying that it is a public festival trying to honor the rebel outfit
LTTE.
California State University-Fresno Establishes Joint Endowed Chair in Hindu and Jain Studie
December 22, 2020 Fresno, California: Over two dozen families,
individuals and foundations have come together to create a joint
Endowed Chair in Jain and Hindu studies at California State University,
Fresno. The partnership between the Jain and Hindu communities and
the university underscores a "mutual commitment to educating
current and future generations of students about the principles of
nonviolence, dharma (virtue, duty), justice, pluralist philosophy, the
interconnectedness of all beings and care for the environment through
Hindu-Jain texts, philosophies and traditions," the university stated in
a press release.
Disclaimer: - The information provided under ‘Sanatana Dharma Around the World’ section is collected from various sources. Readers may check for accuracy.
Dear Readers,
Namaste. We have been receiving enquiries regarding issuing standing instructions for remitting donations every
month to strengthen ‘Rushipeetham Charitable Trust’. Since ‘Rushipeetham Charitable Trust’ is undertaking many
activities of immense value, it will be deemed a big support. We always believe that small drops of water make a
mighty ocean. Interested donors can request their respective banks for monthly transfer of funds. In this connection
while thanking the interested donors for their keen interest, we solicit the support of all. Regarding remitting
donations, please visit page no 66 of our ‘Bharata Rushipeetham’ monthly magazine or refer above. Please mail to
our [email protected] for any information.
With best regards,
Marepalli Suryanarayana, Trustee, Rushipeetham Charitable Trust.
Copyright © 2020 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 6 – January | 2021 22
śivāya guravē namaḥ śrī mātrē namaḥ śrī viṣṇurūpāya namaḥ śivāya
Organized by
Rushipeetham Charitable Trust (Regd.)
Siva Rahasyam
Maha Pravachana Yajnam
by
Samanvaya Sarasvati, Śiva Tattva Sudhānidhi, Ārṣa Dharmōpanyāsa Kēsari
Award Ceremony
The program began at 5:30 pm with lighting the lamp amidst the chanting of Vedas followed by Sri Marepalli Suryanarayana
garu, Trustee of Rushipeetham Charitable Trust, welcome to everyone in person and online and explanation of Trust’s
multiple activities. Later Smt. & Brahmasri Marti Venkatrama Sarma garu were invited onto the stage with honor and seated
comfortably.
Presiding over the program, Chairman of Rushipeetham Charitable Trust, Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu
said, ‘In Bharatadesa, all the Vedas and other related forms of kn0wledge have been preserved to this day and are available
only due to the tradition of Guru-Disciple lineage, but not through books or any other means. Because of this glorious
tradition, all our forms of knowledge have been protected for centuries despite many invasions. For the welfare of the country
and entire mankind, these embodiments of Smartha Vidya are absolutely essential. During the rule of kings in Bharatadesa,
different positions and sections such as King, Minister, Commander, Purohita etc. were present. The entire structure of
Purohitas used to ward off any dangers to the people in the kingdom. To perform any ceremony right from birth to death or
to perform any ritualistic worship either to obtain something or ward off something unwanted, these section of Smartha
scholars are required. Hence, it is the responsibility of everyone in the society to recognize and accord appropriate respect to
them. Today, Rushipeetham is blessed in the veneration of Smartha Vidya by felicitating the personification of Smartha Vidya,
Acharya Sri Marti Venkatrama Sarma garu.’
Later, Smt. & Sri Acharya Marti Venkatrama Sarma garu was felicitated with
Memento, fruits, shawl, silk clothes etc. by Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam
Shanmukha Sarma garu and the trustee couple Smt. & Sri Marepalli
Suryanarayana garu. Many disciples of Acharya Sri Marti Venkatrama Sarma
garu came from different places and participated in the felicitation ceremony.
Later, responding to the felicitation, Acharya Sri Marti Venkatrama Sarma garu
recollected his long and dharmic association with Sri Samavedam garu.
Speaking on the occasion, he said, ‘It is impossible to completely describe the
efficacy of Mantra and Smartha. Employed properly following all the
stipulations, one can achieve everything with mantra. Though the Maharshis
were capable of obtaining any kinds of pleasures with the power of mantra and
tapas, they lived in forests on roots and tubers and passed this heritage onto us
just with compassion. We are ever indebted to them. The importance of
Purohit can be understood from Maharshis such as Vasishtha and Viswamitra.’
Further, Sri Sarma garu also mentioned that Brahmasri Dr. Samavedam garu
not only is expounding Sanatana Dharma in simple and lucid style for everyone
to follow easily through his Pravachanams, magazine, books, and other works
all over the world, but also making sure that everyone is practicing Sanatana
Dharma also. Finally, he said that he was elated at receiving the Rushipeetham
Puraskaram.
Later, the award ceremony concluded with Sri Marepalli Suryanarayana garu, Trustee Rushipeetham Charitable Trust,
thanking each and everyone for all their cooperation towards the event.
Sanjana
Snygdha
Vidya Siresha
Krishna Chaitanya
Srivani
DISCLAIMER: This is not a SPAM. You have received this e-mail, because you have shown interest in the renaissance of Sanatana Dharma by
Brahmasri Dr.Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma garu through pravachanams, ‘Bharata Rushipeetham’ magazine, writings, books, temple renovation
and construction, Sri Vallabha Ganapati temple Rajahmundry, ‘Go Seva’, charitable activities, Yagas and Yajñas, ‘SivaPadam’ concerts and dance
dramas etc., Please forward this e-mail only in UN-EDITED format. For more details, please visit http://saamavedam.org or http://rushipeetham.org
https://www.facebook.com/SriSaamavedam https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUuZr7RU7GTW7iN-vi5tLRg
To subscribe: https://tinyurl.com/yamlpln7
Copyright © 2020 | Rushipeetham Charitable Trust. All Rights Reserved.
‘Samanvaya is Sanātana – Sāmarasya is Bhāratīyata’ Aarshavani Vol. 6 – January | 2021 28