There was acclaim and praise on the article, CONCEPT OF DHARMA AND TRUTH. This is not my writing wholly, but extracts from the book of Sri Dayananda saraswathy and this book was written by him in 1933, 13 years before I was born. The crux of veda a way of life was not written so simply by any one else, including Dr Radhakrishnan and Aurabindo.
How ever, I am also considering whether living like this, AS A SOFT CREATURE LOOKING AT THE GODLINESS LIKE SATHAGA PARAVAI (a bird waiting for rain drops) is also worth, (even sai preaches similar dharama) when/where "such living" is not a success on this earth, and no one knows whether its successful in the other world.
On the contrary, the "other category" ( who does not bother about dharma-living) torments us but live happily for ever(some one whispers they do suffer and dont sleep properly)-(butsoft creatures equally suffer) . I used to say to mom, good daughter in law ,in sai vedio, suffers and mother in law looks like Idumbi enjoys insulting the daughter in law and in -laws. Sai says , good people live well but bad suffer a lot. When? After all the committed tortures, if sombody dies of cancer at age 60, what is the loss for the torturer and the torturer in tha next life born as an Ass, will never know about it.
On the contrary, Dharma and Adharma, are well defined as a changing paths from day to day; Krishna says that you have to fight Adharma as a shatrian and lead dharmic life as a brahmin,earn enough with right attitude as a Vysya. Dharma is never said as only this but said as the path good people tread. 579 AD dharma may be different in 2009 yet dharma shall bring to one and all happiness and shall not hurt any one. If dharma has to be taught properly, to adharmans, and it shall hurt but shall bring happiness in the surroundings, then that is the concept of dharma and that is veda. Adi sankara's ViVeka choodamani, Dialogue between Yama and Nachiketha, discussion in front of the poisoned pool between Dharma and dharmam in Mahabharatha, Kenopanishad, gita are all thoughts of understanding the way of life and dharma.
People are uni-mimded and are afraid to even express openly for the fear of exclusions and richness; they fawn and creed. Hence ADHARMA is thought to be right in KAliyuga. The joke part of it its just 5000 year old since kaliyuga was ushered in and has to go 1,44,000 years for the end. We all will be there born again and again to witness.
But a question? who is born again? The dead body, NO? The Atman,who was/is/will be not involved in the actions of us, but remain a witness. ? So how the balance sheet of dharma nad adharma would affect the atman? That body which was/is reborn which is innocent and not concerned with episodes of earlier JAnmas, alone would suffer? STRANGE THOUGHTS.
DAY TO DAY WE COME ACROSS FAIR,ODD,FUNNY THOUGHT PROVOKING THINGS AND ARTICLES. LESSONS AND ESSENSE OF LIFE AS I SEE, IS PRESENTED IN LOUD THINKING,YOUR POLITE VIEW IS SOLICITED
Friday, April 10, 2009
TRUTH, DHARMA
CONCEPT OF TRUTH, DHARMA AND LIFE
BY DAYANANDA SARASWATHY
WHAT I CHERISHED MAY BE DONE BY ALL
Yajurveda XIX, 30 says that man knows the truth when he possesses a desire to know the truth and to act truthfully. One should have faith in truth alone but never in untruth.
A man who acts truthfully obtains high worth. By becoming worthy he obtains high rank by means of good qualities and becomes universally respected and successful. This his reward. It can be achieved by means of good qualities and actions only.
By observing virtuous vows such as Brahmacharya he gains respect in his as well as in others; estimation. This creates an abiding faith in truthful conduct, for, truthful conduct alone is the source of respect. When this faith goes on constantly increasing, man by its means ultimately attains God and emancipation.
• Page 151
Hence a man should always cultivate faith and enthusiasm for the acquisition of truth.
The following verses of the Atharvaveda reveal the characteristics of Dharma.
'God had made men the possessors of volition, exertion, energy and righteous (Dharmie) conduct. They should, therefore, become wise by studying the Vedas and by acquiring knowledge of God. They should always seek the protection of God and depend on strenuous action.
'May all men be endowed with truth which is incalculated in the Vedas and Shastras, which is free from error and stands the tests of direct cognition, etc. Let them make supreme efforts to cover themselves with highest glory resplendent with the light of right conduct and auspicious qualities, and having the resources of a universal empire at it service. May the e masters of fair renown for the acquisition of noble qualities and truthful conduct and may they shed its luster on all sides.
'May all me find their fullest contentment in their own property and in their good qualities
• Page 152
and may they do good to all beings. May they have firm faith in truth in every way. May the protect others and be themselves protected by the true teachings of honest and trustworthy learned men. May the obtain place of honor before the all pervading God and in activities of universal utility, such as Ashvamedha, in the knowledge of physical sciences and skilful performance of arts. God ordains men to impress this on their minds that they are here in this world for the performance of good works which may be beneficial to all, up to the time of their death.'
'Let all their activities follow the dictates of justice. Let them show courage, fearlessness and fortitude in acting truthfully. Let them be not elated with joy at gain and pleasure and dejected with sorrow at loss and pain in which they may find themselves involved for the time being. They should, on the other hand, try their best to alleviate their suffering and should bear it with resignation. Let them root out the diseases of the body and the mind and render their limbs strong and their intellects firm and acquire strength requisite
• Page 153
for the performance of redoubtable deeds by obeying the good rules of Brahmacharya, etc. Let them acquire learning and education and let their speech be truthful and sweet and possessed of similar good qualities. Let hem keep maas (mind) and the five organs of cognition and five organs of action, tongue, etc. constantly engaged in the pursuit of true Dharma and away from sinful acts. [Here the word vak - tongue, is used as a generic term for the organs of actions].
Let them spend their best energies in acquiring glories of imperial rule. This alone is the Dharma promulgated by the Vedas, based on justice, free from partiality and bias, associated with truthful conduct and universally beneficial. All men should follow it always. What has gone before as well as what comes after is an exposition of this very Dharma. God has revealed the Dharma in these and the following verses for the good of all mankind.
'The special qualifications of a Brahmana, viz., the acquisition of the highest learning, qualities and actions and the dissemination of virtuous, etc., should always be given
• Page 154
scope to develop themselves and the special virtues of a Kshatriya such as learning, skill, courage, fortitude and valor should have always room to grow. Let the assembly of good men always make the empire full of happiness and auspicious virtues by making good laws for it.
The Vaishyas, i.e., the merchants, should have free access to all quarters of the globe and should be afforded every protection so that they may increase the wealth by means of trade and commerce. Let noble qualities shine forth and let a pure desire for virtuous traits of character be cultivated. Let men achieve fair renown. Let there be proper permanent arrangements for the teaching, learning and diffusion of true knowledge.
Men should have a desire to acquire, what they do not possess, by just means, should protect and preserve and improve and increase what they possess and , lastly, should spend their riches in righteous actions. In this fourfold way they should always strive to increase their wealth and provisions and happiness.
'Men should prolong their lives and become physically strong by leading a chaste life,
• Page 155
observing the salutary laws of food and dress and thoroughly obeying the good rules of Brahmacharya. They should preserve beauty of their persons by not giving themselves up to incontinence and unrestrained gratification of the sense. They should establish a fair reputation for themselves by means of doing
righteous acts so that (their example) may add to the zeal of others in their performance.
Let what they recite or hear being recited, be always for glorifying the name of God or for the acquisition of Godlike qualities and let them make themselves endowed with good renown. By means of Pranayama, i.e., control of breath they should strengthen and purify Prana i.e., in-breathing or the air which is drawn into the body from outside, and Apana, i.e., out-breathing or the air which is breathed out of the body.
By residing in a healthy place and by the forcible ejection and the withholding of the breath they should acquire strength of body and mind. They should thoroughly know the ocular, aural and inferential and other proofs and with their help should acquire correct and complete knowledge.
• Page 156
'Men should use liquids such as water, etc. and juices such as milk, ghee, etc. after purifying them thoroughly according to the rules of medical science. They should eat, cooked and uncooked edibles, after purifying and dressing them.
They should always worship God and should always speak the truth that has stood the test of the proofs, the direction cognition etc., exactly as it exists in their consciousness; and should always believe the same.
They should offer adoration to God and perform universally beneficial Yajnas and with proper care and energy should apply their minds, words and acts, to the collection of materials necessary for the completion of both.
The should properly educate, train and provide for the comforts of their children and the (subjects of the) empire. They should also train their domestic animals - the elephants, horses, etc. [The frequent use of the conjunction 'and' - Cha - in these verses signifies that men
• Page 157
should acquire such other good qualities also as have not been specifically enumerate above].
We shall now give some extracts from the Taittiriya Shiksha bearing on the subject of Dharma. All men should always act according to the essential requirements of Dharma as explained therein. They are briefly as follows:
• Page 158
To know a thing as it is, to act truthfully, to bring into practice the essential features of knowledge and Dharma such as rita (morals, divine worship as they are in reality), to restrain the senses from unrighteous conduct and to always employ them in righteous acts; never to let a desire to act unrighteously enter the mind, to utilize the Vedas and Shastras and the things of the world such as fire, etc., for the purpose of the spiritual and the practical sciences so that one may be able to do good to others. To always secure the happiness of all beings by purifying the atmosphere and the rain water by means of regularly performing the Yajna from the daily homa to the Ashvamedha; to arrive at pure truth and to remove doubts by associating with and serving righteous and pious men possessed of perfect and profound erudition, to obtain proficiency in human sciences such as the science
of Government, etc.
To beget children in accordance with Dharma, to bring them up in true Dharma, to educate them and to make them cultured; to conserve virile powers and to have sexual intercourse at the proper time (ritu)
• Page 159
according to the rules of Putreshti; to provide for the safety of the children in the womb and at the time of their birth and to make their bodies and minds grow and develop.
The opinion of the Acharya Rathitara is that a man ought always to speak the truth. The Acharya Pauraushishthi lays down that a man should always act in accordance with dictates of true knowledge and Dharma by observing the rules such as rita (divine worship, moral behests, etc.)
The Acharya Nako Maudgilya, however, holds that the noblest act is to study and teach the Vedas, that there is no other work of Dharma among men better than this and that it is the highest religious exercise.
The preceptor on the conclusion of his disciple's study of the Vedas should instruct him in the Dharma in the following words:-
"O disciple! Always speak the truth, follow the Dharma whose distinguishing mark is veracity. Never forsake the reading and the teaching of the Shastras. Serve your teacher and procreate children. Acquire proficiency in true Dharma and maintain and enhance your
• Page 160
prosperity and glory. You should always acquire knowledge from the learned (the devas) and the wise (the pitris) and should always serve them. Render loving service to your mother, father, preceptor and holy guests. Do not forsake it through carelessness and laziness."
The mothers, etc., should address their sons as follows:-
"O sons! Follow us in our good works only, but never follow usif we happen to commit sinful acts. Associate with those persons only among us who may be learned and possess knowledge of God. You should always have faith in what they say, but never trust the words of others.
Men should always make a gift of such objects as learning, etc., with love without love, with grace, with modesty, moved by fear or for redeeming their promise. To make a gift is far better than to receive it from others. O disciples! If ever you be troubled with a doubt in respect of an act or a line of conduct you should approach the learning who know God, are free from bias and yogins
• Page 161
who keep aloof from adharma, possess learning and other good qualities and have a love of Dharma. Get a solution (of your doubts) from them and act accordingly. You should travel by the road which is trodden by them. We implant this teaching, this advice, in your heart.
This is the inner teaching of the Vedas. All men should give this exhortation (to their sons and disciples.) The worship of God who is all existence, all consciousness and all bliss should be performed with the greatest faith and devotion, but should be preceded by such conduct as has been mentioned above. There is no other way to worship Him." Taittiriya Aranyanka VII9. 11.
• Page 162
Now we describe the characteristics of the Tapas:- "Ritam, i.e., Tat-tvam (that-ness), the worship of Brahma and knowledge of a thing as it is in reality; Satyam, i.e., truthful speech and conduct; Shrutam, i.e., the learning and the teaching of all arts and sciences; Shantam i.e. the keeping aloof of the mind from Adharma and the fixing of it on Dharma, peace of
• Page 163
mind; Damah, i.e., to rstrain the senses from Adharma and to employ them in Dharma; Shamah, i.e. to keep the mind back from Adharma and to concentrate in on Dharma; Danam, i.e., to always make a gift of true knowledge and Yajnam, i.e., the performance of the Yajnas described above. The word tapas signifies all these and nothing else." Taittiriya Aranyaka X.8.
"Also, O man! Believe that tapas is to worship God who pervades all regions. The opposite of this cannot be tapas. The distinctive mark of Dharma is no other than truthful speech and conduct, because through truth men attain to worldly happiness and to that uninterrupted bliss called moksha (emancipation) of good men is truthful conduct. Good men, therefore, always take delight in truth and tapas is, accordingly, to act according to the
• Page 164
requirements of Dharma whose distinguishing features are ritam, etc. Brahma is also, the name given to the acquisition of learning by means of the due observance of the laws of Brahmacharya. The other portions of the above extract, vix., danam (gift) etc. also are to be construed in a similar manner.
The characteristic of the learned is mental activity. The True (God) makes the wind blow and the sun shine. Men attain to honor by means of truth and not otherwise." The words Manasa rishayah in the next mean vital airs, knowledge, etc. Taittiriya Aranyaka X. 62 & 63.
• Page 165
"This Atman (God) is attained by means
• Page 166
of truthfulness, right knowledge and constant Brahmacharya alone. The yatis, (those who possess self-control) whose imperfections have been destroyed, see Him - the pure effulgence residing within their body. God attained by the practice of the true Dharma, etc." The meaning of this Mantra is easy. Mundakopanishad III. 1.
"Truth realized in conduct ever conquers. Through it man always becomes victorious and through untruth i.e., action opposed to Dharma he comes to defeat. The Devayana i.e., the path of the learned, viz., the road of
• Page 167
emancipation which is the giver of unending bliss is illumined and widened by
truthful conduct. By taking the road illumined by the performance of the true Dharma the sages obtain what they desire and arrive there where is the last abode of truth viz., Brahma and enjoy the bliss of emancipation for ever and ever which can not be gained otherwise. All should, therefore, act according to Dharma and forsake Adharma.' Mundakopanishat III.1.6.
"That alone is to be known as Dharma which has been enjoined to be performed by the Vedas and that which has been prohibited by God is Adharma having no substance in it (anartha). It ought to be given up, therefore, by men." Purva Mimansa. I.1.2.
"That alone is to be recognized as Dharma which leads to the desired happiness in this
• Page 168
world and also to the highest bliss of emancipation. That which is opposed to it is Adharma." Vaisheshika I.1.2.
All these extracts are only an amplification (of the teachings) of the Vedas. God has thus preached the Dharma for the sake of all men in a great number of the Vedic Mantras. This is the only Dharma for all men. There is no second Dharma different
BY DAYANANDA SARASWATHY
WHAT I CHERISHED MAY BE DONE BY ALL
Yajurveda XIX, 30 says that man knows the truth when he possesses a desire to know the truth and to act truthfully. One should have faith in truth alone but never in untruth.
A man who acts truthfully obtains high worth. By becoming worthy he obtains high rank by means of good qualities and becomes universally respected and successful. This his reward. It can be achieved by means of good qualities and actions only.
By observing virtuous vows such as Brahmacharya he gains respect in his as well as in others; estimation. This creates an abiding faith in truthful conduct, for, truthful conduct alone is the source of respect. When this faith goes on constantly increasing, man by its means ultimately attains God and emancipation.
• Page 151
Hence a man should always cultivate faith and enthusiasm for the acquisition of truth.
The following verses of the Atharvaveda reveal the characteristics of Dharma.
'God had made men the possessors of volition, exertion, energy and righteous (Dharmie) conduct. They should, therefore, become wise by studying the Vedas and by acquiring knowledge of God. They should always seek the protection of God and depend on strenuous action.
'May all men be endowed with truth which is incalculated in the Vedas and Shastras, which is free from error and stands the tests of direct cognition, etc. Let them make supreme efforts to cover themselves with highest glory resplendent with the light of right conduct and auspicious qualities, and having the resources of a universal empire at it service. May the e masters of fair renown for the acquisition of noble qualities and truthful conduct and may they shed its luster on all sides.
'May all me find their fullest contentment in their own property and in their good qualities
• Page 152
and may they do good to all beings. May they have firm faith in truth in every way. May the protect others and be themselves protected by the true teachings of honest and trustworthy learned men. May the obtain place of honor before the all pervading God and in activities of universal utility, such as Ashvamedha, in the knowledge of physical sciences and skilful performance of arts. God ordains men to impress this on their minds that they are here in this world for the performance of good works which may be beneficial to all, up to the time of their death.'
'Let all their activities follow the dictates of justice. Let them show courage, fearlessness and fortitude in acting truthfully. Let them be not elated with joy at gain and pleasure and dejected with sorrow at loss and pain in which they may find themselves involved for the time being. They should, on the other hand, try their best to alleviate their suffering and should bear it with resignation. Let them root out the diseases of the body and the mind and render their limbs strong and their intellects firm and acquire strength requisite
• Page 153
for the performance of redoubtable deeds by obeying the good rules of Brahmacharya, etc. Let them acquire learning and education and let their speech be truthful and sweet and possessed of similar good qualities. Let hem keep maas (mind) and the five organs of cognition and five organs of action, tongue, etc. constantly engaged in the pursuit of true Dharma and away from sinful acts. [Here the word vak - tongue, is used as a generic term for the organs of actions].
Let them spend their best energies in acquiring glories of imperial rule. This alone is the Dharma promulgated by the Vedas, based on justice, free from partiality and bias, associated with truthful conduct and universally beneficial. All men should follow it always. What has gone before as well as what comes after is an exposition of this very Dharma. God has revealed the Dharma in these and the following verses for the good of all mankind.
'The special qualifications of a Brahmana, viz., the acquisition of the highest learning, qualities and actions and the dissemination of virtuous, etc., should always be given
• Page 154
scope to develop themselves and the special virtues of a Kshatriya such as learning, skill, courage, fortitude and valor should have always room to grow. Let the assembly of good men always make the empire full of happiness and auspicious virtues by making good laws for it.
The Vaishyas, i.e., the merchants, should have free access to all quarters of the globe and should be afforded every protection so that they may increase the wealth by means of trade and commerce. Let noble qualities shine forth and let a pure desire for virtuous traits of character be cultivated. Let men achieve fair renown. Let there be proper permanent arrangements for the teaching, learning and diffusion of true knowledge.
Men should have a desire to acquire, what they do not possess, by just means, should protect and preserve and improve and increase what they possess and , lastly, should spend their riches in righteous actions. In this fourfold way they should always strive to increase their wealth and provisions and happiness.
'Men should prolong their lives and become physically strong by leading a chaste life,
• Page 155
observing the salutary laws of food and dress and thoroughly obeying the good rules of Brahmacharya. They should preserve beauty of their persons by not giving themselves up to incontinence and unrestrained gratification of the sense. They should establish a fair reputation for themselves by means of doing
righteous acts so that (their example) may add to the zeal of others in their performance.
Let what they recite or hear being recited, be always for glorifying the name of God or for the acquisition of Godlike qualities and let them make themselves endowed with good renown. By means of Pranayama, i.e., control of breath they should strengthen and purify Prana i.e., in-breathing or the air which is drawn into the body from outside, and Apana, i.e., out-breathing or the air which is breathed out of the body.
By residing in a healthy place and by the forcible ejection and the withholding of the breath they should acquire strength of body and mind. They should thoroughly know the ocular, aural and inferential and other proofs and with their help should acquire correct and complete knowledge.
• Page 156
'Men should use liquids such as water, etc. and juices such as milk, ghee, etc. after purifying them thoroughly according to the rules of medical science. They should eat, cooked and uncooked edibles, after purifying and dressing them.
They should always worship God and should always speak the truth that has stood the test of the proofs, the direction cognition etc., exactly as it exists in their consciousness; and should always believe the same.
They should offer adoration to God and perform universally beneficial Yajnas and with proper care and energy should apply their minds, words and acts, to the collection of materials necessary for the completion of both.
The should properly educate, train and provide for the comforts of their children and the (subjects of the) empire. They should also train their domestic animals - the elephants, horses, etc. [The frequent use of the conjunction 'and' - Cha - in these verses signifies that men
• Page 157
should acquire such other good qualities also as have not been specifically enumerate above].
We shall now give some extracts from the Taittiriya Shiksha bearing on the subject of Dharma. All men should always act according to the essential requirements of Dharma as explained therein. They are briefly as follows:
• Page 158
To know a thing as it is, to act truthfully, to bring into practice the essential features of knowledge and Dharma such as rita (morals, divine worship as they are in reality), to restrain the senses from unrighteous conduct and to always employ them in righteous acts; never to let a desire to act unrighteously enter the mind, to utilize the Vedas and Shastras and the things of the world such as fire, etc., for the purpose of the spiritual and the practical sciences so that one may be able to do good to others. To always secure the happiness of all beings by purifying the atmosphere and the rain water by means of regularly performing the Yajna from the daily homa to the Ashvamedha; to arrive at pure truth and to remove doubts by associating with and serving righteous and pious men possessed of perfect and profound erudition, to obtain proficiency in human sciences such as the science
of Government, etc.
To beget children in accordance with Dharma, to bring them up in true Dharma, to educate them and to make them cultured; to conserve virile powers and to have sexual intercourse at the proper time (ritu)
• Page 159
according to the rules of Putreshti; to provide for the safety of the children in the womb and at the time of their birth and to make their bodies and minds grow and develop.
The opinion of the Acharya Rathitara is that a man ought always to speak the truth. The Acharya Pauraushishthi lays down that a man should always act in accordance with dictates of true knowledge and Dharma by observing the rules such as rita (divine worship, moral behests, etc.)
The Acharya Nako Maudgilya, however, holds that the noblest act is to study and teach the Vedas, that there is no other work of Dharma among men better than this and that it is the highest religious exercise.
The preceptor on the conclusion of his disciple's study of the Vedas should instruct him in the Dharma in the following words:-
"O disciple! Always speak the truth, follow the Dharma whose distinguishing mark is veracity. Never forsake the reading and the teaching of the Shastras. Serve your teacher and procreate children. Acquire proficiency in true Dharma and maintain and enhance your
• Page 160
prosperity and glory. You should always acquire knowledge from the learned (the devas) and the wise (the pitris) and should always serve them. Render loving service to your mother, father, preceptor and holy guests. Do not forsake it through carelessness and laziness."
The mothers, etc., should address their sons as follows:-
"O sons! Follow us in our good works only, but never follow usif we happen to commit sinful acts. Associate with those persons only among us who may be learned and possess knowledge of God. You should always have faith in what they say, but never trust the words of others.
Men should always make a gift of such objects as learning, etc., with love without love, with grace, with modesty, moved by fear or for redeeming their promise. To make a gift is far better than to receive it from others. O disciples! If ever you be troubled with a doubt in respect of an act or a line of conduct you should approach the learning who know God, are free from bias and yogins
• Page 161
who keep aloof from adharma, possess learning and other good qualities and have a love of Dharma. Get a solution (of your doubts) from them and act accordingly. You should travel by the road which is trodden by them. We implant this teaching, this advice, in your heart.
This is the inner teaching of the Vedas. All men should give this exhortation (to their sons and disciples.) The worship of God who is all existence, all consciousness and all bliss should be performed with the greatest faith and devotion, but should be preceded by such conduct as has been mentioned above. There is no other way to worship Him." Taittiriya Aranyanka VII9. 11.
• Page 162
Now we describe the characteristics of the Tapas:- "Ritam, i.e., Tat-tvam (that-ness), the worship of Brahma and knowledge of a thing as it is in reality; Satyam, i.e., truthful speech and conduct; Shrutam, i.e., the learning and the teaching of all arts and sciences; Shantam i.e. the keeping aloof of the mind from Adharma and the fixing of it on Dharma, peace of
• Page 163
mind; Damah, i.e., to rstrain the senses from Adharma and to employ them in Dharma; Shamah, i.e. to keep the mind back from Adharma and to concentrate in on Dharma; Danam, i.e., to always make a gift of true knowledge and Yajnam, i.e., the performance of the Yajnas described above. The word tapas signifies all these and nothing else." Taittiriya Aranyaka X.8.
"Also, O man! Believe that tapas is to worship God who pervades all regions. The opposite of this cannot be tapas. The distinctive mark of Dharma is no other than truthful speech and conduct, because through truth men attain to worldly happiness and to that uninterrupted bliss called moksha (emancipation) of good men is truthful conduct. Good men, therefore, always take delight in truth and tapas is, accordingly, to act according to the
• Page 164
requirements of Dharma whose distinguishing features are ritam, etc. Brahma is also, the name given to the acquisition of learning by means of the due observance of the laws of Brahmacharya. The other portions of the above extract, vix., danam (gift) etc. also are to be construed in a similar manner.
The characteristic of the learned is mental activity. The True (God) makes the wind blow and the sun shine. Men attain to honor by means of truth and not otherwise." The words Manasa rishayah in the next mean vital airs, knowledge, etc. Taittiriya Aranyaka X. 62 & 63.
• Page 165
"This Atman (God) is attained by means
• Page 166
of truthfulness, right knowledge and constant Brahmacharya alone. The yatis, (those who possess self-control) whose imperfections have been destroyed, see Him - the pure effulgence residing within their body. God attained by the practice of the true Dharma, etc." The meaning of this Mantra is easy. Mundakopanishad III. 1.
"Truth realized in conduct ever conquers. Through it man always becomes victorious and through untruth i.e., action opposed to Dharma he comes to defeat. The Devayana i.e., the path of the learned, viz., the road of
• Page 167
emancipation which is the giver of unending bliss is illumined and widened by
truthful conduct. By taking the road illumined by the performance of the true Dharma the sages obtain what they desire and arrive there where is the last abode of truth viz., Brahma and enjoy the bliss of emancipation for ever and ever which can not be gained otherwise. All should, therefore, act according to Dharma and forsake Adharma.' Mundakopanishat III.1.6.
"That alone is to be known as Dharma which has been enjoined to be performed by the Vedas and that which has been prohibited by God is Adharma having no substance in it (anartha). It ought to be given up, therefore, by men." Purva Mimansa. I.1.2.
"That alone is to be recognized as Dharma which leads to the desired happiness in this
• Page 168
world and also to the highest bliss of emancipation. That which is opposed to it is Adharma." Vaisheshika I.1.2.
All these extracts are only an amplification (of the teachings) of the Vedas. God has thus preached the Dharma for the sake of all men in a great number of the Vedic Mantras. This is the only Dharma for all men. There is no second Dharma different
Thursday, April 9, 2009
TAGORE PROVOKES PEOPLE TO CHANGE
SOME ONE SENT TO ME AND I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE.IT REMINDS ME THAT THOSE WHO DO NOT SAY THAT THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMEN ON EARTH IS ,MY MOTHER, MY WIFE, MY SISTER, GO ROUND TO APPRECIATE PEAGENT SHOW. PEOPLE WHO DONT PRACTICE VIRTUE PREACHES PROFOUNDLY SASTRAS; PEOPLE WHO DONT RESPECT WOMEN CRIES FROM THE ROOF-TOP,ABOUT THE WOMENHOOD; PEOPLE WHO CRIES FOR THE INJUSTICE COMMITTED ON TEIR KITH AND KIN,FAILED TO UNDERSTAND WHAT A CRIME THEY COMMITTED,ON OTHERS WHOM THEY DISTANTLY KNOW. TAGORE AND TIRUVALLUAR AND BHAGAVAT GITA -ALL SY THE SAME THING. WHEN YOU POINT OUT ONE INDEX FINGER ON OTHERS, PLEASE BE REMINDED THAT THREE FINGERS ARE POINTING AT YOU.OHM SHANTI
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
3000 years old social suppression
3000 years old social suppression---
It was reported in the press that Mr. Gold of congress, spoke in support of reservation telling that it is necessary, because 3000 years suppression cannot be cured, over night.
Political leaders know, no history or politics or geography of the domain. Neither the people care to know about it, as long as they get money. Country is secondary to public as well as politician. Or else will all cry for Srilanka, when people in their country suffer more than that. It can be said universal brotherhood had they lamented about Tanzania, old china, Tibet or former Formosa or Guantanamo bay. No, their politics must earn something cash or asset. Why, a recent event @ Malaysia, reported abroad and you tube, was neither reported by news papers nor the Indian as well as Tamil politicians crying for Tamils. You Tube reported demolition of the Hindu Temple of 100 years old,
1. “YouTube - Hindu temple Demolish in Klang Oct 2007
Hindu temple demolished by Malay Authorities - As hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees cried and even begged to stop, the Malaysian Authorities demolished a Hindu temple dedicated to Devi on Tuesday. The temple was more than hundred years old. According to reports, the Hindu devotees including the priests were forced to stop the prayers when the Malaysian Authorities brutally began to demolish the Malaimel Sri Selva Kaliamman Temple, situated in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, using bulldozers accompanied by police. Everybody was crying saying that how could a government do this brutality to a peace loving community.”
Now the suppression of 3000 years had not been researched by the great Historian, Late Sri Neelakanta Sastri K A, anywhere. Sanga Ilakkiams never speak anywhere one such. Even at the time of Islam and English entries, into our country and Tamil nadu, there were not coerced conversions due to poverty. Even as late as 1950s, people were appreciating the best life and respect in the society and the lowest economy. Then since when suppression came up and under whose hands? When Dravidian (so called) rulings, came in with reservations, suppression by the same community started and the blame was shouldered by 2% of the population community. The surprise elements are that the said suppressed preferred at the helm of affairs, only that 2% community and stated that, only that social sector would render justice, as they are God Fearing!!! The comic parody is only that sector, are the legal protectors for the politicians who brought the quota rule!!!! NEITHER THEPOLITICIAN NOR THE PUBLIC READ OUR PAST AND THE HISTORY AND ALWAYS SCAPE GOATES IS THE INTELLIGENCE (NOT CRAFTY).
It was reported in the press that Mr. Gold of congress, spoke in support of reservation telling that it is necessary, because 3000 years suppression cannot be cured, over night.
Political leaders know, no history or politics or geography of the domain. Neither the people care to know about it, as long as they get money. Country is secondary to public as well as politician. Or else will all cry for Srilanka, when people in their country suffer more than that. It can be said universal brotherhood had they lamented about Tanzania, old china, Tibet or former Formosa or Guantanamo bay. No, their politics must earn something cash or asset. Why, a recent event @ Malaysia, reported abroad and you tube, was neither reported by news papers nor the Indian as well as Tamil politicians crying for Tamils. You Tube reported demolition of the Hindu Temple of 100 years old,
1. “YouTube - Hindu temple Demolish in Klang Oct 2007
Hindu temple demolished by Malay Authorities - As hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees cried and even begged to stop, the Malaysian Authorities demolished a Hindu temple dedicated to Devi on Tuesday. The temple was more than hundred years old. According to reports, the Hindu devotees including the priests were forced to stop the prayers when the Malaysian Authorities brutally began to demolish the Malaimel Sri Selva Kaliamman Temple, situated in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, using bulldozers accompanied by police. Everybody was crying saying that how could a government do this brutality to a peace loving community.”
Now the suppression of 3000 years had not been researched by the great Historian, Late Sri Neelakanta Sastri K A, anywhere. Sanga Ilakkiams never speak anywhere one such. Even at the time of Islam and English entries, into our country and Tamil nadu, there were not coerced conversions due to poverty. Even as late as 1950s, people were appreciating the best life and respect in the society and the lowest economy. Then since when suppression came up and under whose hands? When Dravidian (so called) rulings, came in with reservations, suppression by the same community started and the blame was shouldered by 2% of the population community. The surprise elements are that the said suppressed preferred at the helm of affairs, only that 2% community and stated that, only that social sector would render justice, as they are God Fearing!!! The comic parody is only that sector, are the legal protectors for the politicians who brought the quota rule!!!! NEITHER THEPOLITICIAN NOR THE PUBLIC READ OUR PAST AND THE HISTORY AND ALWAYS SCAPE GOATES IS THE INTELLIGENCE (NOT CRAFTY).
Sunday, April 5, 2009
SIMPLE LIFE
SIMPLE LIFE
There was an editorial in Mangaiyar malar, a ladies Magazine, written by Ms Anusha Natarajan. She cited, the happiness of simple life, and said, Happiness is mind oriented. She had seen people buying bunglow, car, posh articles etc when in flying color and drowning in sorrow when the source disappeared or decreased.
One thing is sure. Everything is in mind and people refuse to look at it that way. In contrast, neighbors envy when on top and cherish with criticism when going down. Therefore, the unhappiness is mainly due to the rise and fall of the empire in front of others; they had fallen and the society will mock at them. It’s in the mind.
A question? Why we are here for such a long time, viz on earth?
1. To live to the heart’s content without hurting others and in a righteous ways.
2 To live in any manner as you like without principles and codes selfishly
3. To live taking all things in good strides with balanced mind practicing equanimity
4. To live for HIS GRACE and SALVATION and to proceed in that direction.
Of course, “Loco binna Ruchi” and each has his right to live. In the first category, he has no regrets, since he knows that he is flying and any down fall is his own. In the second category, HE WILL DEFINITELY NOT KNOW and he needs to know that “nanmaiyum theemaiyum pirar thara vaara”. The third one can sleep on double-cot or crunched mud, enjoying the good as well as bad times. Fourth one is simple and simply travelling in another plane. In short, “simple life” is objective and the levels differ as well the definition.
Simple life as meant in the magazine were to be practiced, even buying this magazine is a waste and against leading a simple life. The Grahasthas or samsari, has to work hard and raise the standard physically and mentally, within the accepted boundaries (ulagam pazhithadu ozhithu). There could be the other way too. Those persons climb faster and skids speedier. Even Gandhi the simple soul had problems. In all cases , leading a simple life does not require so many research findings thro varieties of media, and HE did not create species just for that, when ETHANAI KODI INBAM need not be created at all.
Simple life is undefined. Ambani may chat with his driver and staff, as though he is not the owner of multi millions. His driver shall live within his means without comparing him with Ambani. When the son of that driver, is earning in multiple dollars, and if the driver can afford a bungalow, then that is the simple life of that level. When the USA returns back the son, with little or no savings, going back to the early life is simple. Simple life is light and simple in thinking and enjoying the wealth rightfully (or even wrongfully) earned. Simple in mind sustains the happiness forever. Category 3 suffers and makes others suffer wi.th misery. Other categories know the wind and run along with thendral in their mind and heat in the surroundings.
Earthlings shall enjoy the gods’ bounty taking HIM along with, so that the variance is not felt. Simple life is undefined.
Thank you
There was an editorial in Mangaiyar malar, a ladies Magazine, written by Ms Anusha Natarajan. She cited, the happiness of simple life, and said, Happiness is mind oriented. She had seen people buying bunglow, car, posh articles etc when in flying color and drowning in sorrow when the source disappeared or decreased.
One thing is sure. Everything is in mind and people refuse to look at it that way. In contrast, neighbors envy when on top and cherish with criticism when going down. Therefore, the unhappiness is mainly due to the rise and fall of the empire in front of others; they had fallen and the society will mock at them. It’s in the mind.
A question? Why we are here for such a long time, viz on earth?
1. To live to the heart’s content without hurting others and in a righteous ways.
2 To live in any manner as you like without principles and codes selfishly
3. To live taking all things in good strides with balanced mind practicing equanimity
4. To live for HIS GRACE and SALVATION and to proceed in that direction.
Of course, “Loco binna Ruchi” and each has his right to live. In the first category, he has no regrets, since he knows that he is flying and any down fall is his own. In the second category, HE WILL DEFINITELY NOT KNOW and he needs to know that “nanmaiyum theemaiyum pirar thara vaara”. The third one can sleep on double-cot or crunched mud, enjoying the good as well as bad times. Fourth one is simple and simply travelling in another plane. In short, “simple life” is objective and the levels differ as well the definition.
Simple life as meant in the magazine were to be practiced, even buying this magazine is a waste and against leading a simple life. The Grahasthas or samsari, has to work hard and raise the standard physically and mentally, within the accepted boundaries (ulagam pazhithadu ozhithu). There could be the other way too. Those persons climb faster and skids speedier. Even Gandhi the simple soul had problems. In all cases , leading a simple life does not require so many research findings thro varieties of media, and HE did not create species just for that, when ETHANAI KODI INBAM need not be created at all.
Simple life is undefined. Ambani may chat with his driver and staff, as though he is not the owner of multi millions. His driver shall live within his means without comparing him with Ambani. When the son of that driver, is earning in multiple dollars, and if the driver can afford a bungalow, then that is the simple life of that level. When the USA returns back the son, with little or no savings, going back to the early life is simple. Simple life is light and simple in thinking and enjoying the wealth rightfully (or even wrongfully) earned. Simple in mind sustains the happiness forever. Category 3 suffers and makes others suffer wi.th misery. Other categories know the wind and run along with thendral in their mind and heat in the surroundings.
Earthlings shall enjoy the gods’ bounty taking HIM along with, so that the variance is not felt. Simple life is undefined.
Thank you
Saturday, April 4, 2009
LESSONS OF SHAKATAPURAM
LESSONS OF SHAKATAPURAM
1. My family had an occasion to go to SHAKATAPURAM, a village, 28 kms from SRINGERI, in CHIKMAGALUR, MANGALORE DT, and KARNATAKA STATE, INDIA.
2. That place was supposed to be occupied by SRI VIDHYA PEETAM, HEADED BY SANKARACHARYA, COMING IN THE LINE OF ADI SANKARA, and HIS DISCIPLE THODAKACHARYA. Naturally I was eager to search the web site for the details of the Mutt, Geographical locations, parampara etc. However I was startled to know that virtually there was no INDEPENDENT INTERNET domain for the Mutt, however, some one narrated in the web-site about the ADISANKARA AND THODAGA CHARYA, joshi mutt etc yet the details were poor. I had an inkling of thought that why such an ancient Mutt, in the dynasty of BADRI ASHRAM, JOSHI MUTT(as spelt by “some one” who hosted a site)and ADI SANKARA -- had no self-created domain details.
3. As a matter of fact, I was given to understand that, the Said Swamiji, used to regularly visit Mumbai, Baroda etc often and collected sizable funds, for the Mutt. In one such sojourn, on account of an invitation to hold a function there, we were to attend it and the observations during the stay there are narrated hereunder.
4. I got down at UDUPI (see my blog about this place, somewhere below) , and proceeded to Shakatapuram (may be Shankatapuram also). It’s about 3 hrs from UDUPI by car. Incidentally, I felt that Karnataka did have more mutts, especially around chickamagalur, may be lands are available or allotted easily. In my IRS service I had noticed few politically strong mutts, building colleges and dwellings, for profit, yet running them as TRUSTS, as headed by Sanyasis, who underwent tax-raids under IT Laws. May be (with these flash back) when I saw the sprawling extensive land I was really amazed.
5. There were rooms built for visitors, in a 3 storied unfinished constructions, with below average facilities. Virtually your cell phone may not get the signals there, both ways. Even 10 kms away you may not find, aqua drinking water bottles, unless you may have to make a special arrangement. You are dependent for food and coffee and other sustenance, with a remote village style kitchen (don’t imagine HARYANA DHABAS). May be Kitchadi is major tiffen and coffee you may get (no doubt its coffee!) around 8 o clock, since Milk Has to reach there. Lunch is a kind of limited meal, and all that stuff, would cause, certainly, stomach problems. All around the places, inside the territory, the grounds are made of hard terrain pebbles scattered carpets (!). FOOT WALK is the only transportation mode and it’s painful unless your feet are strong. OFCOURSE BHAKTHI IS TOUGH AND BHAKTHAS SHALL BE TAUGHT TO FACE THE ORDEALS IN THE PROCESS OF REACHING THE DIVINE. Bhaktha can reduce his facilities and would require his savings for contributions to Mutt, under varied guise.
6. Now take a bare foot walk (even if you go by auto, still you may have to do more foot walk round and round, so forget about Auto), towards the TEMPLE, constructed by the Swamiji. A small Gopuram entrance (not ancient temple, just raised from 1998 only.) and walk on pebbles and climb up, on a stair case and descend down and walk again on pebbles. That staircase is architecture of a kind (like a Fort entrance).
7. When you walk further,400feet, you enter a platform and then into THE TEMPLE. The structure is like that of USA Indian temples. Three doors in a row and walkable thro, with Ganapathi as first, Krishna in second and Rajarajeswari in third. Kalasam in all the three (small) and not exposed to sky. The roof is covered with sheets and like USA temples its fully covered. It’s covered by low level pipe fencing, for Swamiji to walk around. A small Chariot for daily contribution by Bhakthas.There is back entrance for Swamiji to enter the temple from back and exit. The structure of Deity is so simple and plain, without any palatial architecture. Behind this building you can see THUNGA(BADRA) RIVER flowing.
8. Bhaktha cannot go by the back entrance and has to take a detour from the sides of the temple, on the pebbles terrain, to the back side, where Swamiji resides with Architectural, Poona hall, Golu Mantap, Sangeetha hall, simmasanam (Throne), etc. The majestic building of 2 storied and marble floored, of high architecture and value, Mahogany doors fitted with Brass carved knobs and bright metal hooks and sleeves, is the place where Swamiji stays and functions. The building is well secured and beautiful paintings and pillars, attractive silas (sculptures) and settings and effective princely and godly symbals, do reflect, the residence of a KING, which are not seen in any of the visitors block, Temple or administrative offices on the left of the Swamiji residence. I saw some of those flashes in Jaya samaraja Wadiyar Palace. I did not see such things even in Sringeri Peetam, which is supposed to be BHOGA PEETAM. In the south east direction Yaga sala is constructed with all types of YAGA KUNDAM (where different yagams are performed).
9. The Swamiji who was a student of Dharwad University, created and entered the thrown of Sree Vidya Peetam, and I think he is the first. Young sishyas and staff do not part with enough information about the Pontiffs seniors and elders who were there. There was One Ramachandra Theertha, who left that place leaving behind the Krishna sila and the place and thatched roof, in distressed financial conditions, and settled and died, at TAMBARAM, CHENNAI, TAMILNADU. Now this place in Tambar am is stated to be a branch. This mutt is supposed to have extensive lands, which were taken away by the Govt, under the LAND-CEILING ACTS and lost all revenues. The loose ends could not be fitted properly.
10. The present pontiff, self-proclaimed to the Peetam created in the name of Adi sankara around 1993; its also said he was a minor and so after the completion of the studies took over the mutt. The pontiff stays here only for 3 or 4 months around Mar-June and goes on tour to North mainly, all the other seasons. There are devotees in North India, Chennai and other places, who contribute to his call and that is what you see ,the developments of various structures around the place ,since 1998..
11. People travel far and wide to this place, enduring all difficulties and pour money, for various poojas, chariot running, varieties of homams (even for love success) and money is sought after from Bhakthas in all fronts, with the help of, the retired officials at the helm of affairs of administrations, including a chartered accountant I heard, whom I never met. Even a Lady is in the administration as she is the wife of another administrator, who all works zealously in raising funds.
12.. In India I heard there are 236 SANKARACHARYAS, apart from varieties of saffron and non-saffron clad entities, who has a sizable crowd behind them. Mainly WOMEN in India fall a prey without any thinking and build up the empire. The real Sanyasis like RAMANAR, MAHAPERIAVAL and so many get compared to the other side of certain category, which is unfortunate for MAHANUBAVULUS. Or else there cannot be 236 sankaracharyas, when ADI SANKARA created only four plus one mutt in India and there are disputes even among them. Even here, it is stated that the present incumbent is the descendant of Adi sankara and Thodakacharya, who left the Idol Krishna (which is the one inside temple?) and at the same time the magnitude of the parampara, is not to be seen anywhere, inside the Shakatapuram and the present incumbent holds the fort.
13. As a matter of fact, I found (whether accidental or incidental) that, at the Swamiji enter in Temple or Mantapam, sishyas welcome by proclaiming , (not as ,other ADI SANKARA MUTTS) in an unique style in Sanskrit, which give the true meaning of “WORSHIP’ and not IN A STYLE GIVING THE PARAMPARA direct descendant. Even the letter pad shows THE PLACE as BADRI in Sanskrit and BADARI in English. (Please note the variation). In other words, a new structure is coming up like any private individual temples, in India and the developments are neither renewal nor renovations. I remember often Paramacharyal telling that it’s better to renovate historical temples, rather than building new ones for History. Of course no one would listen to elders of Satya and Dharma in Kali yugam, as they never grant “boons” to the desires of the people. Those who do grant such boons and the grantee feels success, instantly becomes staunch follower and do create their tribe, unaware of the fact that, UNLESS WRITTEN NOTHING SHALL BE CREATED BY ANY ONE HERE.
14. I HAVE SAID TO SO MANYTHIS. If one were (like you and me) to sit somewhere and make hundred people come in queue, and every one were granted the boon they need by you in words and gestures, you will definitely get” ten disciples”, who in turn would procreate the tribe. I am not NASTHIKA but pure ASTHIKA, yet I feel that GURU is a rare personality and cannot one find him so easily, and tough as PAUL BRENTON DID FIND PARAMACHARYA AND RAMANA. People aspire for success without knowing that their destiny is already written and Prayers to lord would show them the way, rather than from running pillar to post. The good sanyasi, Guru, does not need anyone to follow and comes to Grahasthas for the need if any which is the duty of a SAMSARI to perform on true SANYASI. Adi Sankara came at the right time to a poor lady’s house for Bisksha, and granted a golden amla to her to redress her poverty and KANAKADHARA STOTRAM to the world. When do our people realize this? There is nothing wrong in trying to find out who is who but in that process one shall NEVER TO FALL A PREY.
15. Finally, in Shakatapuram, I gave couple of hundreds for which no receipts were issued. It was canvassed for a SUVASINI POOJA wishing to take my wife and 4 others in our team, which was agreed. Money was not spelt at the beginning, and was told that a Ram Nama book shall be filled and given (1100times in columns) and after that Friday Poojas, 5 suvasinis will be given inside the poojas room prasadams and they can participate in poojas. Later I was asked to give Rs 1100, for this Poojas which I gave. No receipt was given for cash payment. Except some flowers thrown at the ladies from gold plates thro Swamiji, nothing else was given. In Durga Temple Tirunelveli, for lesser cost, cotton sarees are given with other flowers etc. Let it be.
16. After an hour ,on 13th Friday 2009,when I went for receipt I was told that, since it’s a religious contribution, under the Income-tax act, it’s not possible to issue receipts and but for donations no receipts are issued to anyone. I was appraised about Income-tax, in length. Then I have to teach them Income tax law as a senior retired official of the dept of Finance. I have to tell them that what they are up to is incorrect. As a Trust, they have to issue receipt even for the contribution of one rupee and the the claim of exemption under the Income tax has got nothing to do with the issuance of receipt. After 24 hrs, the receipts were sent thro my team-mate and not given directly. May be they don’t like it and found a less obvious method to start the practice. However these incidents shall make one understand the way in which the functionaries are being conducted and may be the paradigm of trusts trailing over there require a close watch, by Bhakthas. Since were my understanding of the facts were right, being anew the trust if exist, may not be entitled for exemption u/s 10 or u/s 80 G ,of the IT Act at all. Hence they are not serious about it and followers as usual do not bother about it since, the reason is obvious, in India. Or else there may not be any necessity for advocacy to get receipts for purchase!
17. SHA (N) KATAPURAM visit was over and gave rich experiences of real religion from the rear guard. This is the personal experience and views of an Asthika for facts of life and there is nothing to hurt any feelings of any one and at the same time, it’s to cater to the attention and needs of basic concept of our religion and to show that there are no deity bigger than one at home and there are no deity bigger than your parents and love without desire of material facts would lead them to choose the best.
18. Thank you
ABHEESHTAM AKILAM DEHI, DEHI ME PARAMESWARI.
Om Shanti.
1. My family had an occasion to go to SHAKATAPURAM, a village, 28 kms from SRINGERI, in CHIKMAGALUR, MANGALORE DT, and KARNATAKA STATE, INDIA.
2. That place was supposed to be occupied by SRI VIDHYA PEETAM, HEADED BY SANKARACHARYA, COMING IN THE LINE OF ADI SANKARA, and HIS DISCIPLE THODAKACHARYA. Naturally I was eager to search the web site for the details of the Mutt, Geographical locations, parampara etc. However I was startled to know that virtually there was no INDEPENDENT INTERNET domain for the Mutt, however, some one narrated in the web-site about the ADISANKARA AND THODAGA CHARYA, joshi mutt etc yet the details were poor. I had an inkling of thought that why such an ancient Mutt, in the dynasty of BADRI ASHRAM, JOSHI MUTT(as spelt by “some one” who hosted a site)and ADI SANKARA -- had no self-created domain details.
3. As a matter of fact, I was given to understand that, the Said Swamiji, used to regularly visit Mumbai, Baroda etc often and collected sizable funds, for the Mutt. In one such sojourn, on account of an invitation to hold a function there, we were to attend it and the observations during the stay there are narrated hereunder.
4. I got down at UDUPI (see my blog about this place, somewhere below) , and proceeded to Shakatapuram (may be Shankatapuram also). It’s about 3 hrs from UDUPI by car. Incidentally, I felt that Karnataka did have more mutts, especially around chickamagalur, may be lands are available or allotted easily. In my IRS service I had noticed few politically strong mutts, building colleges and dwellings, for profit, yet running them as TRUSTS, as headed by Sanyasis, who underwent tax-raids under IT Laws. May be (with these flash back) when I saw the sprawling extensive land I was really amazed.
5. There were rooms built for visitors, in a 3 storied unfinished constructions, with below average facilities. Virtually your cell phone may not get the signals there, both ways. Even 10 kms away you may not find, aqua drinking water bottles, unless you may have to make a special arrangement. You are dependent for food and coffee and other sustenance, with a remote village style kitchen (don’t imagine HARYANA DHABAS). May be Kitchadi is major tiffen and coffee you may get (no doubt its coffee!) around 8 o clock, since Milk Has to reach there. Lunch is a kind of limited meal, and all that stuff, would cause, certainly, stomach problems. All around the places, inside the territory, the grounds are made of hard terrain pebbles scattered carpets (!). FOOT WALK is the only transportation mode and it’s painful unless your feet are strong. OFCOURSE BHAKTHI IS TOUGH AND BHAKTHAS SHALL BE TAUGHT TO FACE THE ORDEALS IN THE PROCESS OF REACHING THE DIVINE. Bhaktha can reduce his facilities and would require his savings for contributions to Mutt, under varied guise.
6. Now take a bare foot walk (even if you go by auto, still you may have to do more foot walk round and round, so forget about Auto), towards the TEMPLE, constructed by the Swamiji. A small Gopuram entrance (not ancient temple, just raised from 1998 only.) and walk on pebbles and climb up, on a stair case and descend down and walk again on pebbles. That staircase is architecture of a kind (like a Fort entrance).
7. When you walk further,400feet, you enter a platform and then into THE TEMPLE. The structure is like that of USA Indian temples. Three doors in a row and walkable thro, with Ganapathi as first, Krishna in second and Rajarajeswari in third. Kalasam in all the three (small) and not exposed to sky. The roof is covered with sheets and like USA temples its fully covered. It’s covered by low level pipe fencing, for Swamiji to walk around. A small Chariot for daily contribution by Bhakthas.There is back entrance for Swamiji to enter the temple from back and exit. The structure of Deity is so simple and plain, without any palatial architecture. Behind this building you can see THUNGA(BADRA) RIVER flowing.
8. Bhaktha cannot go by the back entrance and has to take a detour from the sides of the temple, on the pebbles terrain, to the back side, where Swamiji resides with Architectural, Poona hall, Golu Mantap, Sangeetha hall, simmasanam (Throne), etc. The majestic building of 2 storied and marble floored, of high architecture and value, Mahogany doors fitted with Brass carved knobs and bright metal hooks and sleeves, is the place where Swamiji stays and functions. The building is well secured and beautiful paintings and pillars, attractive silas (sculptures) and settings and effective princely and godly symbals, do reflect, the residence of a KING, which are not seen in any of the visitors block, Temple or administrative offices on the left of the Swamiji residence. I saw some of those flashes in Jaya samaraja Wadiyar Palace. I did not see such things even in Sringeri Peetam, which is supposed to be BHOGA PEETAM. In the south east direction Yaga sala is constructed with all types of YAGA KUNDAM (where different yagams are performed).
9. The Swamiji who was a student of Dharwad University, created and entered the thrown of Sree Vidya Peetam, and I think he is the first. Young sishyas and staff do not part with enough information about the Pontiffs seniors and elders who were there. There was One Ramachandra Theertha, who left that place leaving behind the Krishna sila and the place and thatched roof, in distressed financial conditions, and settled and died, at TAMBARAM, CHENNAI, TAMILNADU. Now this place in Tambar am is stated to be a branch. This mutt is supposed to have extensive lands, which were taken away by the Govt, under the LAND-CEILING ACTS and lost all revenues. The loose ends could not be fitted properly.
10. The present pontiff, self-proclaimed to the Peetam created in the name of Adi sankara around 1993; its also said he was a minor and so after the completion of the studies took over the mutt. The pontiff stays here only for 3 or 4 months around Mar-June and goes on tour to North mainly, all the other seasons. There are devotees in North India, Chennai and other places, who contribute to his call and that is what you see ,the developments of various structures around the place ,since 1998..
11. People travel far and wide to this place, enduring all difficulties and pour money, for various poojas, chariot running, varieties of homams (even for love success) and money is sought after from Bhakthas in all fronts, with the help of, the retired officials at the helm of affairs of administrations, including a chartered accountant I heard, whom I never met. Even a Lady is in the administration as she is the wife of another administrator, who all works zealously in raising funds.
12.. In India I heard there are 236 SANKARACHARYAS, apart from varieties of saffron and non-saffron clad entities, who has a sizable crowd behind them. Mainly WOMEN in India fall a prey without any thinking and build up the empire. The real Sanyasis like RAMANAR, MAHAPERIAVAL and so many get compared to the other side of certain category, which is unfortunate for MAHANUBAVULUS. Or else there cannot be 236 sankaracharyas, when ADI SANKARA created only four plus one mutt in India and there are disputes even among them. Even here, it is stated that the present incumbent is the descendant of Adi sankara and Thodakacharya, who left the Idol Krishna (which is the one inside temple?) and at the same time the magnitude of the parampara, is not to be seen anywhere, inside the Shakatapuram and the present incumbent holds the fort.
13. As a matter of fact, I found (whether accidental or incidental) that, at the Swamiji enter in Temple or Mantapam, sishyas welcome by proclaiming , (not as ,other ADI SANKARA MUTTS) in an unique style in Sanskrit, which give the true meaning of “WORSHIP’ and not IN A STYLE GIVING THE PARAMPARA direct descendant. Even the letter pad shows THE PLACE as BADRI in Sanskrit and BADARI in English. (Please note the variation). In other words, a new structure is coming up like any private individual temples, in India and the developments are neither renewal nor renovations. I remember often Paramacharyal telling that it’s better to renovate historical temples, rather than building new ones for History. Of course no one would listen to elders of Satya and Dharma in Kali yugam, as they never grant “boons” to the desires of the people. Those who do grant such boons and the grantee feels success, instantly becomes staunch follower and do create their tribe, unaware of the fact that, UNLESS WRITTEN NOTHING SHALL BE CREATED BY ANY ONE HERE.
14. I HAVE SAID TO SO MANYTHIS. If one were (like you and me) to sit somewhere and make hundred people come in queue, and every one were granted the boon they need by you in words and gestures, you will definitely get” ten disciples”, who in turn would procreate the tribe. I am not NASTHIKA but pure ASTHIKA, yet I feel that GURU is a rare personality and cannot one find him so easily, and tough as PAUL BRENTON DID FIND PARAMACHARYA AND RAMANA. People aspire for success without knowing that their destiny is already written and Prayers to lord would show them the way, rather than from running pillar to post. The good sanyasi, Guru, does not need anyone to follow and comes to Grahasthas for the need if any which is the duty of a SAMSARI to perform on true SANYASI. Adi Sankara came at the right time to a poor lady’s house for Bisksha, and granted a golden amla to her to redress her poverty and KANAKADHARA STOTRAM to the world. When do our people realize this? There is nothing wrong in trying to find out who is who but in that process one shall NEVER TO FALL A PREY.
15. Finally, in Shakatapuram, I gave couple of hundreds for which no receipts were issued. It was canvassed for a SUVASINI POOJA wishing to take my wife and 4 others in our team, which was agreed. Money was not spelt at the beginning, and was told that a Ram Nama book shall be filled and given (1100times in columns) and after that Friday Poojas, 5 suvasinis will be given inside the poojas room prasadams and they can participate in poojas. Later I was asked to give Rs 1100, for this Poojas which I gave. No receipt was given for cash payment. Except some flowers thrown at the ladies from gold plates thro Swamiji, nothing else was given. In Durga Temple Tirunelveli, for lesser cost, cotton sarees are given with other flowers etc. Let it be.
16. After an hour ,on 13th Friday 2009,when I went for receipt I was told that, since it’s a religious contribution, under the Income-tax act, it’s not possible to issue receipts and but for donations no receipts are issued to anyone. I was appraised about Income-tax, in length. Then I have to teach them Income tax law as a senior retired official of the dept of Finance. I have to tell them that what they are up to is incorrect. As a Trust, they have to issue receipt even for the contribution of one rupee and the the claim of exemption under the Income tax has got nothing to do with the issuance of receipt. After 24 hrs, the receipts were sent thro my team-mate and not given directly. May be they don’t like it and found a less obvious method to start the practice. However these incidents shall make one understand the way in which the functionaries are being conducted and may be the paradigm of trusts trailing over there require a close watch, by Bhakthas. Since were my understanding of the facts were right, being anew the trust if exist, may not be entitled for exemption u/s 10 or u/s 80 G ,of the IT Act at all. Hence they are not serious about it and followers as usual do not bother about it since, the reason is obvious, in India. Or else there may not be any necessity for advocacy to get receipts for purchase!
17. SHA (N) KATAPURAM visit was over and gave rich experiences of real religion from the rear guard. This is the personal experience and views of an Asthika for facts of life and there is nothing to hurt any feelings of any one and at the same time, it’s to cater to the attention and needs of basic concept of our religion and to show that there are no deity bigger than one at home and there are no deity bigger than your parents and love without desire of material facts would lead them to choose the best.
18. Thank you
ABHEESHTAM AKILAM DEHI, DEHI ME PARAMESWARI.
Om Shanti.
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