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Yugabdh: 5122 Shaka Samvat: 1942 Vikram Samvat: 2077

VOL: L No: 4 October-December 2020 Vishwa Digest BIDDING GOODBGOODBYEYE TO 2020

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VOLUME: L NO: 4 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020

�셀भगवानुवाच असंशयं महाबाहो मनो दुरनꄿग्रहं चल륍 | अभयासेन तु कौनतेय वैरागयेण च गृह्यते || -�셀मद्भगवदग셀ता 6.35 śhrī bhagavān uvācha asanśhayaṁ mahā-bāho mano durnigrahaṁ chalam abhyāsena tu kaunteya vairāgyeṇa cha gṛihyate -BHAGVAD GITA 6.35 Lord said: O mighty-armed son of , what you say is correct; the mind is indeed very difficult to restrain. But by practice and detachment, it can be controlled.

About the HINDU VISHWA

World Hindu Council of America (VHPA) publishes the Hindu Vishwa issue quarterly, except when combined with EDITORIAL TEAM special publications. For subscription, please fill out the membership form on the last page. For Advertising inquiries please contact: Shyam Tiwari @ 7709622669 or email: [email protected]

Managing Editor: World Hindu Council of America (VHPA), founded in Shyam Tiwari 1970 and incorporated in the state of New York in 1974, is an independent, nonprofit, tax-exempt and volunteer- [email protected] based charitable organization serving the needs of Hindu Editor: community in USA. It aims to build a dynamic and vibrant Hindu society rooted in the eternal values of Dharma and Ronica (Rajranee) Jaipershad inspired by the lofty ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, i.e. [email protected] “the entire creation is one family”. Advisor: The views expressed in the articles presented in this publication Dr. Abhay Asthana are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the organization, officials, editorial staff or the donors. © [email protected] Copyright 2019 World Hindu Council of America (VHPA). All rights reserved. No parts and contents of this publication may be reproduced in any form, without the written permission of VHP of America, Inc.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

SEE IN THE ISSUE...

SHRI BALKRISHNA NAIK: MERGER OF A Editorial 03 NISHKAAM DIVYATMA INTO COSMIC LIGHT

HinduPACT Organizes its First Ever

Fundraising Gala 10

First ‘decolonized’ English Translation of 07

Srimad 16 05

Ram Mandir Donation Drive to be Launched SUPPORT-A-CHILD STANDS UP TO THE on 18 CHALLENGES OF 2020

Iconoclasm in Kerala Too 20

The Flow of : Soma and Ananda 23

Kurukshetra: A Short Visitor’s Guide 27 08

Terror in the Name of God and Allah 33 BIDDING GOODBYE TO 2020

Embrace Every Season 36

FIRST VHPA HINDU CENTER INAUGURATED IN CHICAGO

12

PREHISTORIC ROCK ARTS DISCOVERED IN TIRUVANNAMALAI CAVERN

04 15

2 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

EDITORIAL PROMISES SHOULD NOT BE FORGOTTEN

ur Hindu events are designed with a purpose: Not so long ago, on Saturday, November 14, celebrated the annual festival of , or, the festival of lights. This is a period Owhen Hindus worship Mother , the Goddess of wealth, and fill their homes and surroundings, with earthen lamps (diyas), and happiness! This event provides an opportunity to focus on Mother Lakshmi, and to ensure that their respective abodes will be visible when the Mother passes by, on Diwali night. On this occasion, families get together, for prayers and unification, and for the opportunity to begin the Hindu new year together. They share sweets, join together for prayers, and reflect on their past, with a resolve to ensure that in the upcoming year, life will be better, goodness will prevail, and darkness will be overcome. Similar festivities are visible during holidays in December, and New Year’s Eve, an event which marks the last day of the calendar year, and the beginning of a new year. This day is celebrated lavishly, with pomp and pageantry. We celebrate our achievements and accomplishments with families and friends, and make promises to each other, with a resolve to foster a brighter and better future, in the upcoming year. However, as time goes by, we all have seen instances, wherein, as the new year goes by, the resolutions are sometimes forgotten. Good does not always prevail over evil, and the unwanted inevitably occurs. Some families even become divided, due to various discords that occur within the family unit. This should not be the case. Promises and resolves are not to be broken, or forgotten. Conceptually it’s all about a sankalp, whether it’s for performing a pooja at home or something else, to remain steadfast irrespective of interruptions. If you make a promise, or resolve to accomplish some objective, it is essential that you fulfill oury obligations. So, as we approach the end of another year, do follow through with your new year‘s resolutions, and especially, “be good and true to your words, and to one another!”

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First VHPA Hindu Center Inaugurated in Chicago n October 24, 2020, the World distancing norms were maintained including Hindu Council of America (VHPA) limiting the number of attendees. ’s Consul Oinaugurated its first Hindu Center in the General to Chicago, Amit Kumar congratulated city of Sugar Grove, IL. The occasion was graced the organization for its efforts in bringing this by Consul General of Chicago Hon. Amit Kumar ambitious project to fruition while Mayor Michels and the Mayor of Sugar Grove Hon. Sean Michels lauded the Indian American community for their who were joined by an intimate group of the substantial contributions to the US. organization’s leaders and their families. The Center, located at 200 N. Bond St, Sugar The Center’s mission is to bring the Hindu Grove, IL, stands on a 2.7-acre plot of land and community together, celebrate Hindu culture and has a built-up area of 16,000 sq. feet. The Center heritage and pass it on to the next generation. As will offer numerous services to the Hindu per Hindu tradition, a yagna was performed and community including Bal-Vihar for children, presided over by the President of the Chicago Vedic Math classes and Women’s Self Defense Chapter Nirav Patel, Vice Presidents Vinesh classes among other activities. Center will also be Virani and Harindra Mangrola, Secretary Shailesh available for social gatherings and office space Rajput, Midwest Coordinator Sanjay Shah, rentals. and VHPA Joint General Secretary Amitabh For more information, please contact: [email protected] Mittal and their respective spouses. Strict social or call (224) 388-9122.

4 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

Shri Balkrishna Naik: MERGER OF A NISHKAAM DIVYATMA INTO COSMIC LIGHT

Kushinagar and met venerable Buddhist monks and taken their blessings. He was also associated with the Sri Math, and Mission work started by .

My last meeting with him was during the meeting of the VHP Central Margdarshak Mandal on 10th November, 2020 in when he could not stop his desire to have Darshan of venerable saints even in the condition of ill health and infirmity. He had great reverence for Vinod Bansal venerable Sant-Mahatmas. Ability, integrity and humility were the hallmarks of his personality. n way from Kushinagar to Gorakhpur He was always peaceful, quiet, cheerful and soft- (51 km stretch) in at 11.30 spoken. Op.m. on November 18, 2020, a flame merged into the Param Jyoti (Cosmic Light). Shri Balakrishna Uttamrao Naik was born Remaining a bachelor, Shri Balakrishna Naik (78) had preferred the lifelong happiness and bliss of selfless service of protecting, preserving and promoting the cause of Desh-Dharma, - Krishi Kulaachaar (culture) and Hindu self-respect to material pleasures and common run of life! He gave up his body at the place which is famous for the Mahaparinirvana (absolute liberation from the limitations of the world of relativity/giving up of body) of Bhagwan Buddha – the Enlightened and Awakened One. Kushinagar is included in the famous Buddhist circuit/trail encompassing , Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. It is said that he had also expressed the wish to attain Nirvana at the same Punyasthali. He also had great reverence for Mahatma Buddha and his principles. Prior to his demise, he had Darshan-Poojan at the Maha-Parinirvana temple of Bhagwan Buddha at

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(1942/43) at Paithan, , and his who constitute 1/6th of the over 7.8 billion global paternal family had later shifted to Sambhajinagar population. He was a member of the Central (Aurangabad), Maharashtra. He had been a brilliant Governing Council of VHP since 2018. student since childhood. He did his Bachelor As the head of the International Coordination of Engineering (Mechanical) and stood first in Department of VHP, he travelled to several Gujarat University in 1962. He earned his Master European, American, and Caribbean countries of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) including the USA, England, Germany, Italy, from Stanford University, California (USA) and The Netherlands (Holland), Norway, Trinidad worked as Research Engineer with NARMCO & Tobago, etc., to mobilise and put in place R&D, San Diego, California during 1963-65. a mechanism amongst the NRI and the PIO brethren, so that Bharatiya culture and Hindu After returning to Bharat, he straight away, values of life could be kept being passed and without going in for any job/employment for handed on from generation to generation. He which he was eminently eligible, participated in the historic World completely dedicated himself to Hindu Conference held in Trinitad the service of Maa Bhaarati & Tobago in 1999-2000 as the (Mother India) in 1966 as a AS THE COORDINATOR head of the International Pracharak of the Rashtriya OF THE HINDU-BUDDHIST Coordination Department Swayamsevak Sangh JOINT DELEGATION, HE of VHP. (RSS) working from NOT ONLY TRAVELLED TO Parbhani (Maharashtra. COUNTRIES LIKE THAILAND, As the coordinator In 1967, he was sent CAMBODIA, VIETNAM, of the Hindu-Buddhist to Kolkata to work for MYANMAR, NEPAL, BHUTAN, SRI Joint Delegation, he not the Hindu cause in , INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, only travelled to countries West that was in SOUTH KOREA, BANGLADESH, like Thailand, Cambodia, the sadistic communist , LAOS, AND Vietnam, Myanmar, stranglehold during those SINGAPORE, BUT ALSO Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, decades, and he effectively HELPED VEN. Indonesia, Malaysia, South worked in W.B. in various Korea, Bangladesh, Suriname, roles for 23 years. He was sent to Laos, and Singapore, but also helped –W.B. in 1974 Ven. Bhadant Gyanjagat Mahasthavir to work as a Vibhag (a cluster of 3-4 districts) Ji Maharaj – the head of the Hindu Buddhist Organizing Secretary and then from 1976 Cultural Foundation – organize a Hindu to 1990, he successfully worked as the State Bauddha Conference at Lumbini – the hallowed Organizing Secretary of VHP-W.B. Later on he birthplace of Bhagwan Buddha. The theme was was Organizing Secretary for VHP – Western to reclaim the pristine cultural fraternity and Zone (consisting of Maharashtra and Gujarat) commonwealth status amongst all these countries for 5 years. For quite some time since 1995 he including Bharat. ministered the VHP International Coordination work from as a Central Secretary. For the past 15 years, he had been looking Then as a Joint General Secretary and a Vice- after the work of Samannvay Manch (Solidarity President he worked for the organization which Forum) for protection, preservation and is the global platform for the Hindus of the world promotion of Bharatiya Culture as its first Head,

6 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year and then as its Patron. He was the originator of his engineering peer at Gujarat University, writes the Samannvay Manch that aimed at ensuring “.We will miss him!” His friend solidarity amongst all indigenous schools of from USA, Engineer Shri Sushim Mukerji writes: spirituality, including the Bauddha, Jain, Sikh “…I was so saddened by the news of the passing traditions, etc. He never ever thought of taking of Naikji. He phoned me even a few months a break or retirement due to his uncooperative ago during this Covid pandemic to enquire my health (asthma), but by virtue of his continuous wellbeing. We knew each other from the mid- cultivation of mind over matter, he always kept 1980s. In spite of all intellectual and professional on moving and working across the country – in qualifications he chose a life far from the societal the dynamic Aitareya Upanishadic tradition of norm, a life that shunned name and fame and “Charaiveti, Charaiveti” – keep on moving ahead wealth. Gita encourages us to lead a life “vita- discovering, inventing and innovating in the raga-bhaya-krodha” (free from attachment-fear- spiritual, material, social and national spheres for anger); Naikji led that life effortlessly, as if it is the good of one and all. so easy. He did not have attachment even for the wellbeing of his own body, which perhaps was the In his tributes paid to the Divyatma, the VHP reason he passed so prematurely. Working President Advocate Shri Alok Kumar said that Late Shri Balkrishna Naikji was very much a By virtue of his wholesome, chaste and continuous practitioner of the 18/5 Shloka of the unassuming character, humility, love and Shrimad Bhagavad Gita: “yagna-daana-tapah- sincerity of purpose, he accomplished results and , na tyaajyam kaaryam eva tat, yajno daanam earned respect in all areas of his responsibility. chaiva, paavanaani manisinaam”, meaning, As a Sangh Pracharak, he lived an ascetic life; as acts of sacrifice, philanthropy and self-discipline an office-bearer of the Vishva Hindu Parishad verily ought to be performed, and should not be he made great efforts to establish co-ordination forsaken, for the holy fire rite, charity, and penance amongst all indigenous schools of spirituality and sanctify even the wise. (The truly wise inculcate left his body in harness, while on organizational the doctrine of performing the inner holy fire tour as if he proved true to his regular prayer as a ceremony of casting material consciousness into Swayamsevak, i.e., “Mahaamangale punyabhume the fire of inner wisdom; and the metaphysical twadarthe, Patatwesha kaayo Namaste fire ceremony, the burning of mortal desires in the Namaste” (“Oh the supreme benefactor holy land, cosmic perception of God, or destroying material this body be laid down for You! Many praises for desires in the fire of divine longings. These acts you!) are symbolized in the external of casting clarified butter into the ceremonial fire). He kept It takes a super courageous man to accomplish his mind and intellect awakened and dynamically such a feat. We will miss him! Hari !” creative/productive through regular Vipassana Our humble tributes on the merger of a meditation. The Yajna-Daan-Tapa framework Nishkaam-Jyoti into the Cosmic Prakash- very much outlined and defined the agenda of all Punj! his activities. ABOUT THE AUTHOR His USA academic peer Shri Oliver Markley Shri Vinod Bansal is the national spokesperson has wished him “Rest in Peace” and another for VHP Bharat. USA friend Shri Babulal Gandhi, who was also

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 7 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

SUPPORT-A- CHILD STANDS UP TO THE CHALLENGES OF 2020

and lack of resources prevent youth from getting any Jayant Daftardar, Director SAC USA education. To address the needs of this neglected populace, schools have been started in remote areas of , Tripura, Meghalaya, Jharkhand, , West upport-A-Child (SAC), a program of VHPA, Bengal, , Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. Now was established in 1985 as an initiative of the we see the presence of SAC Supported Hostels in all the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), to S states of Baharat. BKP, a project of VHP, with the help help eradicate illiteracy and improve living conditions of about 200 associated organizations or trusts all over of children from poor and disadvantaged families in Bharat, is dedicated to jan-kalyan and is an embodiment India. SAC is run totally by volunteers’ efforts, with of the lofty principle of “Nar-seva Narayan-seva.” minimal overhead costs. Today SAC has strong presence in 27 active chapters in 16 states in US, with dedicated chapter coordinators, and a strong national team. FUNDRAISING: The year 2020 posed unique challenges for SAC in Donors may support a child (or several children) by organizing the annual fund raising events. After donating $250 per child which provides for education considerable thought, it was decided to host a series of and living expenses of the child for a year. Donors online events on virtual platform using social media. receive a report card for each sponsored child every year The first event of this series was Hasya Kavi and are encouraged to visit the SAC supported hostels sammelan’ Jeevan ke Rang Hasi Ke Sang featuring in India. Please visit sacusa.org to learn more about the renowned poets Gajendra Solanki, Dr. Praveen initiatives and success stories of SAC. Shukla, Dr. Sarita Sharma, and Dr. Sunil Jogi on Aug 29. A combination of ‘hasya kavita’ as well as thought To ensure “Satpatri Daan”, SAC collaborates with provoking serious poetry, the program was well received various organizations dedicated to serving the poor by the audience. and needy in India so that help reaches where it is most needed. Some of these organizations are Bharat Kalyan “Atithi Devo Bhava” a musical dance drama that Prathishthan (BKP) (Sewa Vibhag of VHP Bharat), rediscovers Bharat through music, dance, and visuals Sewa Bharati, Sewa Dham, Vivekanand Kendra and was presented on September 12. This program was Seva in Action. Among these, BKP is our main partner previously performed nationally and internationally; which runs several hostels in cities as well as in remote notably in front of the Taj Mahal. The program villages and tribal regions of India, where poverty presented the famous traditional and folk dances from

8 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year four corners of India, masterfully showcasing the unity art forms of Bharat. in diversity of the Bharat. Webinar “Hindus of Kerala Past, Present and The next show was the Grammy nominated tabla Future” was organized on Dec 12 jointly with Swami and percussion maestro Pt. Subhen Chatterjee and Vivekanand Cultural Society (SVCS) from Kerala, Bandish Fusion band on Oct 10. The show titled Bharat. The purpose of the webinar was to highlight the Bhava-Rasa-Tala, was a memorable musical experience rich and proud history and heritage of Hindus of Kerala presenting a unique fusion of Indian and western music, and to create awareness about the current challenges blending Indian classical music with Jazz as well as faced by the Hindus of Kerala. Webinar also showcased harmonic influence from European classical music. The several Sewa initiatives launched by SVCS & SAC for the band, comprising of talented instrumentalists as well uplift of Hindu society. as vocalists, enthralled the audience with their melodic beauty and incredible rhythms. OPERATIONS: This year, SAC shifted its operations from Houston, TX A unique addition to the SAC fund raising efforts to Cincinnati, OH. Sangeeta Singh-ji joined us as Office was a youth program “By The Youth – For The Youth.” Manager and is ably providing all the backend support. This was a Music and Dance show by talented teens This year has been challenging for everyone due to across America. The program was managed entirely by Covid-19 pandemic, however volunteers of SAC have youth volunteers of SAC from conception to execution. shown exceptional focus and have continued with the The variety show included vocal, instrumental and fundraising efforts. Our goal for 2020 is to support 3500 dance performances, and highlighted the deep children and we are on track to meet the goal with the connection of the Indian diaspora with the traditional generous and unwavering support from our donors.

LAST 5-YEAR SAC STATISTICS AT A GLANCE: Year 2015 Year 2016 Year 2017 Year 2018 Year 2019 Number of children 1139 1738 2139 2464 3064 supported Number of Donors 276 566 710 867 1236 Number of Hostels 42 59 59 72 75 Number of States in 13 15 18 19 20 India (Donations Given) Number of States in US 35 35 35 37 37 (Donations Received) Total Donations $ 167,126.00 $ 379,013.63 $ 453,488.00 $ 431,352.10 $ 535,980.21 Received

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 9 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year HinduPACT Organizes its First Ever Fundraising Gala

o kick-off its 2021 Hindu Policy research and Advocacy CollecTive initiatives, THinduPACT organized a fundraiser gala virtually on Saturday, December 19, 2020 and was hosted on several online platforms.

The gala was anchored and hosted by Preity Üpala, a former investment banker and Miss India International, currently a media entrepreneur in Dr. Jai Bansal, HinduPACT Executive Director Hollywood, CA, a geo-political commentator, – Education, and former Chief Scientific Officer columnist, and director of The Omnia Institute. and Distinguished Fellow at Argonne National Laboratory, provided a brief on Hindu diaspora in USA, the structure of HinduPACT, its current and proposed activities, and financial (donations and/or endowments) needs. Dr. Ajay Shah and Utsav Chakrabarti, HinduPACT Convener and Executive Director, respectively eloquently provided background information.

The program began with a Sri Ganésh stuti, mellifluously sung by Ms. Geetikka Kulkarni, a renowned playback singer (of Bajirao Mastani and other movies fame). The urgent need for partnerships for Hindu Americans to promote Hindu voices and perspectives in the political and cultural landscape of USA was articulated A very engaging and thought-provoking by Ankur Patel, HinduPACT Director for panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Rakhi Israni, Partnerships, along with introductory remarks. HinduPACT Executive Director – Legal, ensued. This was followed by felicitations by Dr. Abhaya It had four prominent Hindu American panelists: Asthana, President of Vishwa Hindu Parishad of Dr. Rik Mehta, Ms. Vindhya Adapa, Dr. Raj Vedam, America (VHPA), and Dr. Ved P. Nanda, John and Pandit Roopnauth Sharma. It articulated the Evans Distinguished University Professor and broad theme of advocating a strong American Thompson G. Marsh Professor of Law, University Hindu voice in the public space that encompasses of Denver.

10 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year political, cultural, and educational arenas. Dr. Manek, Healthcare entrepreneur, prominent Raj Vedam, Co-Founder of Indian History social worker, and a clinical Registered Nurse. Awareness and Research think-tank (Houston, The pressing need for funding the policy research TX) and Director of Arsha Vidya Satsanga, and Hindu advocacy in USA cannot be overstated, emphasized the necessity of advancing Hindu and donations can be made at the following URL: narratives that are contextualized in their original https://hindupact.org/. Puranic traditions. The urgency for countering the distorted colonial and leftist descriptions In his concluding was also expressed. The latter engender flagrant remarks, Utsav Hinduphobia and outright demeaning of Hindu Chakrabarti narrated values and cultural identities. These views were emotive stories of further advanced by Pundit Roopnauth Sharma, discriminations against President of the Hindu Federation, Ontario, Hindus, grossly distorted , and Ms. Vindhya Adapa, Attorney depiction of Hindu views, Advisor – US Dept of Treasury and Formerly and Hinduphobia, which Asst. General Counsel for HIAS. Ms. Adapa guided his engagement with HinduPACT. The also espoused the need for forming partnerships program was interlaced with melodious musical with other diaspora in order to build broader interludes provided by Ms. Geetikka Kulkarni, advocacy coalitions. Dr. Rik Mehta, Biotech and ended with a lovely Ghoomer song and the entrepreneur, Healthcare policy expert, former rendition of Albela Sajan song in both and USFDA staffer, and first Hindu American 2020 Telegu. Republican nominee for US Senate in New Jersey, echoed similar comments for advancing Hindu An estimated virtual points of view in its multi-faceted domains. The audience of 5,000 viewers question and answer session that followed was over the diverse Zoom, very engaging, and evoked a thought-provoking Facebook, and YouTube exchange between the moderator, panelists, and internet platforms enjoyed viewers. the gala. Furthermore, the program was streamed Earnest appeals for donations to endow (either live or via a dedicated link) by the following the HinduPACT initiatives were made by Smt. media partners: Diya TV (https://diyatvusa. Renu Gupta, HinduPACT Executive Director com/), Tag TV (https://www.tagtv.info/), and for Chapter Development, and Smt. Vishakha Bharat FM (https://bharatfm.com/).

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 11 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

BIDDING GOODBYE TO 2020

We make elaborate schedules to manage time but Gaurang G. Vaishnav in reality, while following those schedules, we Tampa, FL ([email protected]) become slave to the time. We say ‘time flies’ but does it really? When we watch TV or a film in a or time immemorial, mankind has been theater, the screen remains where it is; the frames searching for the “truth”- is time real? of a movie move in rapid succession. Similarly, "We can portray our reality as either a F may be the time is like a vast canvass on which three-dimensional place where stuff happens over our day-to-day life, our ‘schedules’ are projected. time," said Massachusetts Institute of Technology physicist Max Tegmark, "r as a four-dimensional Keeping that thinking in the mind, let us think place where nothing happens [‘block universe’] — about the year gone by- the year 2020. Though it and if it really is the second picture, then change has become a ritual to take stock of the year gone really is an illusion, because there's nothing that's by, make new resolutions only to be broken later, changing; it's all just there — past, present, future.” such an exercise also serves as a benchmark in (https://www.space.com/29859-the-illusion-of- human history. time.html) The year 2020 will be remembered for the Leaving aside the question of what ‘time’ is to the Coronavirus and COVID-19. The pandemic scientists, we, human beings have to acknowledge and its impact around the globe are the stuff of that we are conditioned and controlled by time. science fiction or a horror movie. It has been a

12 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year rude awakening and a big jolt to the self-centered Origin (ASEI). mankind. One couldn’t have imagined that the things we took for granted could easily be taken Dr. Bindal served as the Environmental away from us- freedom of movement, freedom Program Manager for the US Dept. of Homeland of assembly, freedom to eat out, freedom to use Security and as the Commissioner of PG's public transit, freedom to play outside, freedom County’s Solid Waste Advisory Committee. The to go to schools and colleges, freedom to have President of India honored him with the 'Pravasi parties, freedom to celebrate weddings and other Bharatiya Samman' Award in 2017, and in 2019, joyous affairs of life, opportunity to attend the last he received the 'Pravasi UP Ratna' Award, from rites of near and dear one- all these were gone in the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Bharat. a blink of an eye. Bharat lost a well-respected amazing singer, Though ultimately, COVID-19 will be tamed, S.P. Balasubarhamaniyam, Balu to COVID-19. and people will begin to live more or And hundreds of thousands of people less normal life, its impact will lost their livelihood, jobs and last for a long time. So many VHPA businesses. families have lost loved ones. VOLUNTEERS IN We all remember how in SEVERAL STATES WERE There were non-COVID the initial days back in ACTIVE IN SEVA WORK related losses to the Hindu March/April we used to RELATED TO CORONAVIRUS. society too in 2020. A Seva see on the TV screen a THEY COLLECTED FUNDS and humility incarnate three-digit number of AND DISTRIBUTED MASKS, senior office bearer total deaths in USA. This GLOVES AND GROCERIES TO of VHP, Bharat, Shri escalated to more than THE NEEDY. SOME OF THE Balkrishna Naik Ji passed 300,000 over nine months WOMEN VOLUNTEERS SEWED away during Diwali and we became numb as it MASKS AT HOME AND holidays in Kushinagar, is difficult to comprehend DONATED THEM TO Uttar Pradesh, the holy such rapidly increasing THE HEALTHCARE land where Bhagwan Buddha numbers. But for those who lost WORKERS. attained Parinirvan, or liberation a family member, a father, mother, after death. Here in USA, one of brother, sister, a child or a grandparent, the early volunteers and a life member each of that 300,000+ death is a painful reality, of VHPA, Shri Ram Gehani of Maryland passed a reality more acute than anything else because away in April. He had served on the governing they couldn’t hold their departing relative’s hand council of VHPA and was instrumental in the or comfort them when they breathed their last. growth of VHPA’s work in metropolitan DC area. Neither could they, in many cases, be there at the cemetery or crematorium to pay respect But there were some bright spots too in and attend religious ceremonies. The Bharatiya otherwise a gloomy and extremely difficult year. community of NJ-NY lost one of its leaders, Shri On August 5, 2020, almost a five-hundred-year- Ramesh Patel to COVID-19. VHPA lost Dr. Hari old dream of the Hindu society to reclaim the B. Bindal, a member of the Governing Council, a land where Shri Ram temple at his birthplace was renowned Environmental Specialist, and founder destroyed and a ‘mosque’ was built on its ruins on of the 'American Society of Engineers of Indian the orders of , the Moghul king, the Prime

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Minister Shri performed the in Seva work related to Coronavirus. They “Shilanyaas”, foundation stone laying ceremony collected funds and distributed masks, gloves to build a grand temple of Bhagwan Shree Ram and groceries to the needy. Some of the women in , which became a reality after the volunteers sewed masks at home and donated Supreme Court ruled in favor of Hindus. This them to the healthcare workers. was a historic day, and it gave a big boost to the confidence of the Hindus, especially, coming At the end of this year, VHPA also changed after several but persistent struggles over those its leadership. Dr. Abhaya Asthana, the president centuries and sacrifices of thousands of lives. of VHPA who has been with VHPA for 26 years and served in various capacities decided to step down to bring in new blood. At the same time, Shri Sanjay Mehta, the General Secretary who also has been with VHPA for more than 25 years emphatically expressed his desire to relinquish his position one year ahead of the completion of his term. This duo has worked in tandem for so many years and led VHPA ably and infused it with new energy. Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America is thankful to them and looks forward to their active role on the Advisory Board. The Governing Council of VHPA unanimously elected Dr. Ajay Shah (PA) and Shri Amitabh Mittal (IL) as the president and the general secretary. These young members have been with VHPA from early age and have the experience needed to continue steering VHPA in the right direction. Thus, while 2020 was a difficult year, 2021 comes with a new Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America launched promise. two major initiatives in the year 2020. It started HinduPACT (Hindu Policy Research and The year 2020 also taught us the value of Advocacy Collective) and a weekly talk show family as a unit, importance of good friends, HinduLounge on YouTube. These two initiatives joy of simple, home cooked food, possibility of will go long way in bringing issues affecting wanting less and finding joy within. It also opened Hindus front and center and influencing our eyes to the effects of wanton disregard of the government policy makers at all levels. During nature and abuse of natural resources. this year, another Hindu advocacy organization, CoHNA, Coalition of Hindus of North America The speed with which vaccines were invented was born after a series of anti-Bharat resolutions by cooperation among researchers is a testimony by city councils and attacks on Hindu Mandirs to human courage in face of the direst challenges. and Hindu Students bordering on Hinduphobia That is why the hope springs eternal. With the became a major concern. lessons learned, let us welcome the year 2021 with the renewed spirit to make this world a better VHPA volunteers in several states were active place to live for all.

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Prehistoric Rock Arts Discovered in Tiruvannamalai Cavern

M T Saju

rehistoric rock art in red and white ochre have been discovered inside a rock cavern Pin Neelanthangal, a remote village in Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu. There are at least 15 images of animals and other figurines inside the cavern, which is facing threat from vandals. Like many rock art sites in the state, vandals have scribbled their names around these prehistoric pieces of art too. There are at least 15 images of animals and other figurines inside the cavern There are at least 15 images of animals and other figurines inside the cavern, which is facing The study of rock art in Tamil Nadu, particularly threat from vandals. Like many rock art sites in the in the recent years, has attracted the attention of state, vandals have scribbled their names around academicians, artists and amateurs from different these prehistoric pieces of art too. fields. The curiosity in this ancient form of art has It’s difficult for one to identify the ancient resulted in the discovery of more than seventy-five figurines and images from the recent ‘creations’ of sites in Tamil Nadu with paintings (petrographs) the vandals, according to S Balamurugan, tehsildar and engravings (petroglyphs) executed on the of Tiruvannamalai, who with a team of four surface of rock-shelters. Many rock arts sites in heritage enthusiasts discovered the site a couple of Tamil Nadu are yet to be taken over and preserved, days ago. according to S Sudhakar, a member in the team. “It was not easy for us to identify the prehistoric “Neither the ASI nor the Tamil Nadu state figurines, particularly those painted in white ochre. archaeology department takes any interest when it People who come here don’t know the significance comes to rock art sites,” said S Sudhakar, a member of it. They draw images inside the cavern imitating in the team that discovered the site. the ancient pieces of art. They also write their names Vandalism is on the rise here as many use the and initials on the rock wall,” said Balamurugan. site as a hangout, making use of the remoteness South India, housing the second largest corpora of it. “We are planning to place a sign board to of rock art after the central Indian Vindhyan hill highlight the importance of the site soon,” said zone, contains more than 500 rock art sites in a Balamurugan. varied ecological, geographical, geological and “A detailed study by experts will help understand ethnographic setting. The rock art sites of Kerala- the significance of the prehistoric art works in the Tamil Nadu zone, located in the granite-laterite region,” he added. zone, are datable from the megalithic to early Source: https://m.timesofindia.com/city/chennai/prehistoric-rock-arts- discovered-in-tiruvannamalai-cavern/amp_articleshow/76708941.cms historical times.

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FIRST ‘DECOLONIZED’ ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF SRIMAD BHAGAVAD GITA

AUTHOR SAYS REVERED SACRED TEXT MORE RELEVANT THAN EVER

ancouver, BC – Ten years in the making, includes Arianna Huffington who recentlywrote : a new English version of the world’s most “The Bhagavad Gita is a source of wisdom in this Vtranslated – and mistranslated – ancient crucible time.” Indian scripture could be the purest because it does not include colonial, western or Christian TRANSLATED HUNDREDS OF TIMES distortions. Considered a literary masterpiece with universal appeal, the Gita has been translated hundreds of Written more than 5,000 years ago – some times in 75 languages since 1785. It even provided calculate 7,500 years ago – the Bhagavad Gita is the premise of the multi-star Hollywood movie, considered the ultimate guide on how to navigate The Legend of Bagger Vance. life’s struggles and dilemmas and find meaning within existence. It is the central and enduring When local Vedic (Hindu) scholar and linguist sacred text of Hindu and other eastern cultures Jeffrey Armstrong embarked on being the first that can be found in households worldwide. Canadian to translate the Gita into English, he thought he was doing a straight -to- The book also has prevailing global influence English translation. Through his research, he as a “leading book of ,” and a following that

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discovered that previous western versions had “There has long been demand for a version distorted the Gita with concepts, words and of the Gita that corrects distortions. With this theories that do not exist in Sanskrit or Indian translation by Jeffrey Armstrong, who deeply cultures. understands the connotations and subtle connections of the Sanskrit terms around which Armstrong spent 10 years “decolonizing” the the Gita revolves, we finally have an extensive and text to capture it accurately. The Bhagavad Gita profound English version of the Bhagavad Gita.” Comes Alive: A` Radical Translation released this week on Amazon, timed with Diwali celebrations. Professor Ved P. Nanda: Head of Hindu Armstrong says the book’s teachings are more Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), a North American relevant than ever. non-profit organization that aims to preserve and promote Hindu ideals and values. The University “As we navigate a changing world amidst a of Denver’s international law department is named global pandemic, climate change, and universal after Nanda, who is an awarded adjunct professor calls for social justice, the Gita offers guidance and at the university. The Indian government awarded lessons that are timely, including about ethical Nanda its third highest civilian honour, Padma and moral dilemmas, politics, and cooperating Bhushan: with nature,” said Armstrong, vice-chair of the Vedic Friends Association and scholar with the “Jeffrey Armstrong has produced a master British Board of Dharmic Scholars. translation, carefully preserving its intended meaning. The Bhagavad Gita Comes Alive: A A few of the Christian words and concepts that Radical Translation enables the reader to unlock Armstrong avoids in his translation include: God, the profound messages which are obscured by heaven, hell, soul, and sin. “These words and other versions.” concepts cannot be used as synonyms for Vedic and yogic words and philosophies. I offer the Gita ABOUT JEFFREY ARMSTRONG in its true essence where I keep key Sanskrit words Jeffrey Armstrong is an award-winning author, and use English to support their true meaning linguist, and poet. He has been teaching the and intent.” for more than 40 years. He also had a successful 15-year career as an executive in Silicon Valley For example, the word “soul” originated with and public speaker addressing Fortune 500 the Greeks and is defined as the essence of a companies. His other books include Spiritual human being who has one lifetime followed by Teachings of the Avatar, and Karma: The Ancient consequences. The Bhagavad Gita Comes Alive Secret of Cause & Effect. replaces “soul” with the correct and intended Sanskrit word, “atma,” which means “the invisible, Media Inquiries: Renu Bakshi 604 787 1873 or immortal being with no beginning or end.” [email protected] Book Inquiries: VASA Publishing, Sandi TESTIMONIALS Graham: [email protected] 604-370- Dr. – American Hindu scholar who 6970 was awarded India’s third highest civilian honour, Website: https://gitacomesalive.com Padma Bhushan, by the Indian government: Amazon Link: Order the book

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RAM MANDIR DONATION DRIVE to be Launched on Makar Sankranti

AFTER THE MARTYRS, NOW IS THE TURN OF TIME-GIVERS AND FUND CONTRIBUTORS: CHAMPAT RAI SHRI RAM MANDIR NIDHI SAMARPAN DRIVE WILL RUN FROM 15 JANUARY TO 27 FEBRUARY

ew Delhi, December 16, 2020 - The saints and the rest of the people of society. support of every Ram devotee from all Announcing Shri Mandir Nover the country will be solicited for Nidhi Samarpan Abhiyan, Vice-President of the grand temple to be built on the birthplace Vishva Hindu Parishad and Secretary General of Bhagwan Sri in Ayodhya. For this, of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the Karyakartas of Vishva Hindu Parishad Shri Champat Rai said that in this intensive and will go from door to door with the venerated extensive campaign from the upcoming Makar

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Sankranti (15th January, 2021) to Magh-Purnima soon come out. The whole temple will be of stone (27th February), VHP Karyakartas would reach blocks. Every-one of the three floors will be 20 out to 110 million families of 400,000 villages of feet high; the length and breadth of the temple the country and propagate and flourish Ramatwa will be 360 and 235 feet respectively. by connecting the common man directly with Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. With the support of people Shri Champat Rai said that it is planned to of every , creed, sect, region and language make the present and the future generations of of the country, the Ram temple would actually the country aware of the truths of the history of take the form of a Rashtra Mandir(Temple of the this temple. By going from door-to-door, at least nation). Saluting the struggles and sacrifices of half of the country’s 1350 million people will be innumerable hindus, he called upon every Rama made aware of the historical truths of Shri Ram bhakt(devotee) to come forward enthusiastically Janmabhoomi. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and proactively for this Ram-Kaaj(cause). For this, and Attock to Cuttack, we won’t leave any corner we need not only funds-contributors of the country unvisited. The VHP but also time- contributors, he Karyakartas (volunteers) will reach SRI RAI SAID added. out to every nook & corner of the THAT PREPARATIONS country, including the Rann of ARE UNDERWAY Addressing a press Kutch, Arunachal Pradesh, TO CONSTRUCT THE conference in New Delhi Nagaland, Andaman & TEMPLE. ENGINEERS FROM today, he said that Hindu Nicobar Islands and the IIT , IIT DELHI, IIT society struggled for five mountainous, forest and CHENNAI, IIT GUWAHATI, CBRI centuries to protect the desert regions of Bharat, ROORKEE, LARSEN & TOUBRO honour of the country to hand out Ram temple AND TATAS ARE WORKING by reclaiming the literature to people and ON THE FOUNDATION birthplace of Bhagwan seek their support. People DRAWING. THE FOUNDATION Sri Ram. Finally, the have a strong desire that CONFIGURATION AND Supreme Court accepted the Sri Ram’s Nativity Temple LAYOUT WOULD VERY sentiments of the society and should come up at His SOON COME OUT. the truths of history associated Janmabhoomi soon. with the temple and directed the Government of Bharat to form a trust. Sri Rai said that millions of The government announced a trust in the name Karyakartas would take part in this historical of “Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra”. campaign and the society would voluntarily The Prime Minister accelerated the process of cooperate and co-create because the work is of construction by offering worship in Ayodhya on Bhagwan (God) and the temple is of Ram. Funds August 05, 2020. cannot be a hindrance in the work of God. In order to maintain transparency in the financial Sri Rai said that preparations are underway dealings and transactions, the trust has printed to construct the temple. Engineers from IIT coupons and receipts of denominations of INR Mumbai, IIT Delhi, IIT Chennai, IIT Guwahati, 10, 100 and 1000. Karyakartas will issue coupons CBRI Roorkee, Larsen & Toubro and Tatas or receipts according to what the society are working on the foundation drawing. The contributes. The picture of Bhagwan Sri Ram’s foundation configuration and layout would very temple will reach millions of homes.

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ICONOCLASM IN KERALA TOO

bore the brunt of the repeated waves of Muslim conquests and iconoclasm. The periods of temple destruction there are mainly the occupation by Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan (late 18th century) and the Moplah Rebellion (1921).

FINALLY Now, the 157-page book Destroyed Temples of Kerala, vol.1 (so, more volumes are coming), by Tirur Dinesh, speaks of “thousands” of “destroyed Hindu temples” (back cover) in the far southwestern part of India alone. He zooms n 1990, the late Ram Goel, historian- in on one case each in 25 chapters, where a publisher from Delhi, in his book Hindu “case” or “incident” of iconoclasm usually means ITemples, What Happened to Them, compiled more than one temple, or a major temple with a a list of some 1862 temple sites where the temple number of dependent smaller temples. (Even in had been destroyed by Islamic iconoclasm, Richard Eaton’s list of “80” cases of iconoclasm, often to be replaced with a mosque. Those are nowadays cited for authority by the secularists as 1862 falsifiable claims, as a scientific hypothesis “the number of destroyed temples”, the ca. 1000 requires, and none of them has been refuted in temples destroyed in Varanasi by the Ghurid the intervening 30 years. army count as a single “case”.) Nor does a single demolished temple mean that it was demolished The list was by no means exhaustive. Likewise, only once. historian Meenakshi Jain’s 2019 book Flight of Deities, listing being spirited away by Thus, “Chokkoor Sreerama Kshethra was worshippers in the nick of time to protect them demolished during the time of Tipu’s invasion and from approaching armies of iconoclasts, is very again during the Moplah riots (...).Tipu’s army far from complete. Books as hefty as hers on India entered through the Thamarassery mountain as a whole wait to be written on each of India’s pass, killed as many Hindus as they could, terming provinces. Now, a start has been made listing and them as Kafirs, destroyed the temples all the way discussing demolished temples in Kerala. and spared only those Hindus who were willing to accept . They demolished nearby temples In Goel’s list, Kerala was really underserved, like Kulikkapra Siva Temple, Kuzhikalaattu Siva with only a mosque in Kollam and a Palghat fort of Temple, Pongattur Subrahmanya Temple near to Tipu Sultan mentioned in which temple materials Manipuram, etc., and reached Chokkoor Srirama were used. (Hindu Temples vol.1, p.133). Kerala Temple.” (p.59-60) The several demolitions of all was not the hotbed on Hindu-Muslim conflict, these temples altogether form one case, here one rather well-off compared to North India that chapter.

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Dinesh has personally visited all the sites and build [the Sanctum] Sanctorum was raised from provides original photographs. Every site has a the native Hindus.” (p.110) different story, which he relates in detail, often after painstaking original research. The mythical Other devotees are now preparing for a revival origin of the temple is also explored. Unlike Goel’s of the Paruthikkottamanna Mahadeva Temple, bald enumeration followed only by the general after excavating it from the forest that had covered ideological context, this list provides ample local it over in the past two centuries in 2013: “The context. believers hope that they will overcome hurdles, and well-wishers will financially back them up for In some cases, the temple demolition does not the renovation.” (p.138) In some cases, the author date back to historical episodes like the Moplah himself partakes in these revival efforts. At any Rebellion, but took place within living memory, rate, this way he manages to end sordid stories of with eye-witnesses still around to be interviewed. temple destruction on a constructive note. The Iringavoor Siva Temple was the victim of a bomb attack on 31 July THE LIST WHY ICONOCLASM? 1985. The perpetrators were OF WHAT WAS Why did these things happen, local Muslims descended ACTUALLY DONE TO and sometimes not happen? from Hindus forcibly THE HINDUS IS GETTING To start with the former: converted by Tipu Sultan. LONGER, AND MORE VOLUMES Islam teaches and The Islamic ideology that INVENTORYING THIS CHAPTER commands iconoclasm, motivates iconoclasm, OF INDIAN HISTORY ARE SURE TO with Mohammed himself that motivated Hyder and FOLLOW. EVERY PART OF INDIA having set the example, Tipu and the Moplahs COULD PRODUCE SUCH A VOLUME. most emblematically to it, is still alive and WE MUST BE GRATEFUL TO TIRUR with the destruction of unchanged. But the good DINESH FOR BREAKING THE the 360 idols in the Kaaba. part of this story is that this ICE IN LOCALIZING AND That was the general rule to temple is presently being DEEPENING THE LINE OF which Hyder, Tipu and the revived. (p.43 ff.) RESEARCH PIONEERED Moplah Khilafatists adhered. BY SR GOEL. Where the demolished temples But the latter case, non-iconoclasm, were not replaced with mosques, which has its part of the truth as well. There is a are immunized and perpetuated by the Places of secularist argument that Tipu Sultan actually Worship Act 1991, the ruins often become the patronized Hindu temples. The argument germ of a new temple. Thus, the Malaparambu suffers from the usual secularist flaw of willfully Maattummal Narasimhamoorthy Temple had confusing an exception with the rule, but yes, already gone through convoluted proceedings next to numerous temple destructions, there (including the return to of some are a few such cases. The reason was that “Tipu Muslims and the menacing resentment of the blindly believed in astrology. (...) Astrologers local Muslims for that) to set up a trust, revive attributed the continuous defeats met by Tipu the temple and renovate it, when “in 2005 the to the demolition of temples and suggested temple was released to the trust. Following this the renovation of temples as the only remedial they started the renovation process and found measure. His donations to the temples were a the Narasimha’s idol as 6 pieces. (…) The fund to result of this advice.” (p.8)

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standard transcription of both Sanskrit and So, the cases where he patronized idol temples Malayalam would not have been a luxury. For do not prove that next to a fanatical iconoclastic a temple mentioned above, we note the variant Islam there is also a pluralistic Islam (even spellings Srirama and Sreerama, neither of them wrongly extolled as “the real Islam”), as secularists standard. The definite article “the”, non-existent would like you to believe. They only prove that in the Indian (and the immense majority of the next to Islam, Tipu also held another belief, world’s) languages, is one of the grammatical viz. in astrology. When his belief in astrology, difficulties in English. In most Semitic, by rendered acute by setbacks on the battlefield, did extension Greek, Germanic and Celtic, and by not intervene and Islam had free reign, he was further extension the Romance languages, it also an unmitigated fanatic eager to convert Hindus exists but its use is more predictable; in English forcibly and destroy their temples. His letters it is quite irregular and idiomatic. It makes little down to the inscription on his sword testify to difference for a correct comprehension, but not this Islamic zeal. As do the mute witnesses: the mastering it just looks bad, e.g. here: “The most ruins of Hindu temples and the mosques he built sacred place of South India, temple with their debris. among these, was demolished by Mysore army” (i.e. by Hyder Ali; p.94). It shouldn’t have been too much trouble to change this to “the Brahma POINTS FOR IMPROVEMENT temple” and “the Mysore army”. For most readers, A few times the wording in this book is not stunted language indicates stunted thinking, and precise enough, either because the author is a bit thus detracts from the author’s credibility. careless in doing justice to the evidence available, or because the evidence is still really deficient. Thus, the Chamravattom Kannanoor Pisharath CONCLUSION temple “was last demolished at the time of the The list of what was actually done to the Hindus Moplah riots” (p.39), factual enough, but many is getting longer, and more volumes inventorying temples were demolished several times in India’s this chapter of Indian history are sure to follow. long history. So earlier, it was “believed to be Every part of India could produce such a volume. destroyed at the time of Tipu’s invasion” (p.38, We must be grateful to Tirur Dinesh for breaking emphasis added). In a scholarly book of facts, the ice in localizing and deepening the line of the word “belief” detracts from the power of research pioneered by SR Goel. persuasion; it should be avoided. To be sure, it may reflect a real state of affairs, where a scenario Tirur Dinesh: Destroyed Temples of Kerala, is probable but not altogether certain, there really vol.1, Trasadasyu Publ., Trivandrum 2020, 157 exist several more options between totally yes and pp., ISBN 978-81-939299-2-6, Rs.350 totally no. Still, in the present war with the anti- Hindu forces, anything less than full certainty, Source: https://koenraadelst.blogspot.com/2020/12/iconoclasm-in- kerala-too.html even including an honest admission of mere probability, will be exploited by your enemies. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

And while we are formulating a bit of criticism, Koenraad Elst, a renowned Belgian Indologist, a trivial but non-negligible point is the language has written several books on Indian history and culture. He is best known for his writings of this book. Proofreading by a native speaker on controversies in Indian history. or at least someone fluent in English and in the

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THE FLOW OF SOMA: SOMA AND ANANDA

of peace and contentment, which reflects this spiritual Soma. Ultimately Soma is the bliss of all existence, the Ananda through which the universe is created and into which it must return. It is this Soma or Ananda that is the prima materia or ultimate substance behind the entire world.

SOMA AND : BLISS AND CONSCIOUSNESS To understand Soma, we must understand Agni, David Frawley (Pandit Shastri) the fire, light or energy principle, which is its counterpart. In Vedic thought, the twin principles he Vedic ritual reaches its climax in of Agni and Soma are behind all workings in the the Soma offering, in which specially universe on all levels. On an outer level, they prepared plant juices are offered into the T refer to the great elements of fire and water, but sacred fire (Agni) as the drink of the Devas. But their inner symbolism goes much deeper. Such a this ancient ritual reflects a deeper internal ritual twofold division of reality takes many forms like or alchemy of awareness that is its real import. Purusha and Prakriti, and Lakshmi, and In exploring this process, we will discover many and . Indeed, Lord Shiva, the supreme secrets of the practice of Yoga. Godhead, is said to be Agni-Somatmakam or both Agni and Soma in nature. His right side is Agni in Soma is first of all part of a great universal nature–fiery, harsh or masculine. His left side is symbolism. Soma pervades the outer world as Soma in nature– watery, gentle or feminine. These water in its various forms on the earth and in the are the basis of his two manifestations as fierce sky, as the sap of plants, the vital fluids in animals, (ghora or Agni) and gentle (saumya or Soma). the Moon, and even the waters (vibratory field) of space. Soma exists inside ourselves as Agni as fire represents light (Jyoti) in the a psychological principle of feeling, love and broadest sense, which includes the light of inspiration, including as our creativity that we perception and the light of consciousness, not manifest in diverse forms. simply light as a material principle. Soma as water (Apas) is the medium on which light can Yet beyond this, Soma is a spiritual principle, be reflected, which is ultimately a quality of light an aspect of the infinite and a key to immortality. itself. In this regard Soma is not only water, but In the state of meditation, the brain and mind the mind and ultimately, the reflective power of naturally secrete a special type of Soma or nectar consciousness itself.

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Soma as a cosmic power is not simply watery Soma is inherent in the soul, which is ever seeking in its nature. It has an oily quality that can nourish to return to its origin in God. Similarly, we are and sustain fire. It has been compared to ghee always extracting some form of Soma out of our (ghrita) in texture. All objects that we see are like life experience. This essence or rasa is ultimately fuel for the flame of our awareness. Soma also has delight. That is why the refer to the a sweet quality and has been compared to honey Self as rasa (raso vai sah). (madhu). All that we see is like a flower, from which the honey of bliss can be extracted. These The Self is said to be the fluidity of water, the properties that can sustain light and provide joy heat of fire, the power of the wind to move, the pervade all of space. Great can access them power of the earth to hold and the power of space with their subtle bodies (the linga or fire body) to pervade. It is the unique quality or special and move at will through all the worlds, finding essence, what is the highest and best in all things. nourishment and delight in all that they perceive. This unique essence is Soma. We discover the Self by going to the essence of our own nature. The Soma is the delight which is the counterpart Self is the eye of the eye, the ear of the ear, the of light. On the deepest level, Agni is the fire of mind of the mind. It is the truth of truth. This consciousness (Chidagni) that is reflected in the extraction of the essence from all that we know Soma or water of bliss. In this regard Agni and is extracting the Soma that is hidden in all things. Soma are ultimately the same, two complementary This extraction process occurs in the purification aspects of . filter (pavitra) of the heart, by the light of which we can discern the heart or core of all things. OBJECTLESS DELIGHT The highest Soma is the delight inherent in THE SEER AND THE SEEN existence itself (Brahman), not simply the pleasure Relative to the Yoga of Knowledge (), produced by contact with external objects. Soma Agni is the seer and Soma is the seen. Seeing has is the ‘pure delight’ that we are truly seeking in all a fiery quality and works through light. The seen that we pursue, not mere temporary pleasure that is the field illumined by light and is actually only wears away the senses and is only its reflection. light or consciousness reflected externally. Our Any happiness that is based upon contact with very power of seeing is a power of fire while all an external object must be fleeting and must that we see is potentially fuel for it. If our seeing eventually end in pain. This higher ‘objectless’ is clear then it can disclose the Soma or Ananda joy or self-delight can only be perceived by an hidden in all that we see. The fire of seeing is able internal consciousness beyond the fluctuations of to ripen, cook or bring out the essence of all that the mind, by the unwavering flame of awareness. we observe. The key to the alchemy of Jnana (Self- We can achieve that through taking the state of the knowledge) is that whatever we look at with full witness (sakshi-bhava), which provides the joy of attention, with a fully energized Agni or fire of perception and avoids the pain of involvement. awareness, will yield Soma or delight, not as an As long as we rely on external contacts to gain external enjoyment but as the very bliss of the our Soma or happiness, we cannot escape from Self. the wheel of sorrow. When we look at things directly, without We are all seeking some form of happiness division, their essence comes forth, which is in life. We all want lasting bliss. This seeking of Ananda. This is the state of Samadhi, which is the

24 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year flowing of Soma at an inner level. The unity of and meditations that bring in a higher level of Agni and Soma is the unity of the perceiver and experience into the mind. the perceived. When we learn to look at our inner self wholly and fully, through the practice of Self- 4. At the level of the inner or discriminating inquiry, then the delight inherent in the Self must mind (Vijnanamaya Kosha), the Buddhi or come forth as the ultimate Soma or self-delight. discriminating intelligence is the Agni and the various principles, beliefs, ideas or that we pursue in life are the Soma. Special types THE FIVE KOSHAS of Soma for the higher mind include formless The five sheaths or koshas are a common yogic meditations on truth, unity, bliss and harmony. teaching going back to the . Each of these five levels of our nature has its own 5. At the level of the soul (Jiva or Anandamaya form of Agni or fire, which is its essential energy. kosha), our inner consciousness (Chitta) is the Each has its equivalent form of Soma, Agni, and our entire life experiences and which is its main fuel. Agni is the memories are the Soma. Special eater or enjoyer, while Soma is AGNI IS THE STRIVING types of Soma for it include the food or substance enjoyed. OF THE SOUL UPWARD the practice of Self-inquiry TOWARDS THE DIVINE, WHILE in which we digest our life- 1. At the physical level SOMA REPRESENTS THE DESCENDING experiences, burning up (Annamaya kosha), the DIVINE GRACE. AGNI REPRESENTS OUR our Samskaras (internal digestive fire (Jathargni) WILL OR ASPIRATION TO THE TRUTH, karmic tendencies) and is the Agni, and the food WHILE SOMA REPRESENTS WHAT INSPIRES turn them into pure and drink we take in US AND THE GOAL THAT WE SEEK. THAT awareness. through the mouth is the IS WHY AGNI OR FIRE IS REPRESENTED Soma. Higher physical BY AN UPWARD FACING TRIANGLE, In this way, the soul forms of Soma include WHILE WATER OR SOMA IS or Jiva takes in substances, special rejuvenating foods, REPRESENTED BY A TRIANGLE impressions and ideas from beverages and herbs that can THAT FACES DOWNWARD. the external world and extracts revitalize the body, brain and the nectar of Ananda from them, nervous system. just as a bee gathers pollen from various flowers and turns them into 2. At the pranic or vital level (Pranamaya honey. The ultimate result is the essence (rasa) kosha), Pranagni or the vital fire is the Agni and of our experience that becomes the Ananda or our vital enjoyments of exercise and activity Soma Kosha, in which our and samskaras are the Soma. Higher Pranic forms of Soma are held. Those who have cultivated the fire of including Pranayama practices that can revitalize awareness are able to turn all their experience, our internal Pranas and balance their energies including that of sorrow, into Soma or Ananda. towards transformation. This takes them beyond the field of all the Koshas.

3. At the level of the outer or sensory mind (Manomaya kosha), the mental fire (Manasika AGNI AND SOMA AND THE Agni) is the Agni and our various sensory PRACTICE OF YOGA enjoyments are the Soma. Higher mental In the practice of Yoga, Agni is the fiery Kundalini forms of Soma include mantra, visualizations force that dwells in the root or earth chakra

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 25 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year below. It is the power of aspiration that rises from fire and reaching the supreme light. Surrender below and ascends to the heavens above. Soma to God or devotion ( Yoga) is the best, is the watery nectar that dwells in the crown simplest and most direct method for opening or head chakra. It is the power of Divine grace up to the flow of grace and reaching the highest that descends from above. As Agni rises, Soma delight. descends. The oily drops of Soma provide the fuel for Agni to aid in its upward movement. The practice of meditation should always strive to be a dual cultivation of both Agni and The Yoga tradition teaches us that the crown Soma, with both deepening perception and joy. A chakra is the region of the Moon or Soma balanced practice should address both Agni and ( Kanda), just as the lower three chakras Soma aspects of the practice. Cultivating Agni are the region of fire (Agni-Kanda). Soma, means cultivating the flame of our awareness, according to the Vedas, flows in a thousand concentration, perception and discrimination. streams. These are the thousand currents of the It means increasing the power of the mind to crown chakra, the Sahasrara or thousand petalled inquire, perceive, penetrate and transform. lotus. Physiologically, Agni relates to the solar plexus, while Soma relates to the soft palate in the In this regard there is a helpful metaphor: The head, the source of saliva and other secretions in mind is like a wick. Knowledge (Jnana) is like the the head. Balancing these two energy centers is an flame, but Devotion (Bhakti) is the oil (ghee). important Yoga practice. Without the oil to sustain the flame, it will merely burn up the wick. So too, a mind that does not have that flow of grace or devotion, can be burned up or SELF-INQUIRY AND SURRENDER dried out by the flame of knowledge. We should Agni is the striving of the soul upward towards must remember to keep our Soma flowing. the divine, while Soma represents the descending Source: https://www.vedanet.com/the-flow-of-soma/ Divine grace. Agni represents our will or aspiration to the truth, while Soma represents what inspires ABOUT THE AUTHOR us and the goal that we seek. That is why Agni or Dr. David Frawley (Pandit Vamadeva Shastri) fire is represented by an upward facing triangle, D. Litt., author of several books, is a western while water or Soma is represented by a triangle born teacher or in the Vedic tradition. In that faces downward. India, Vamadeva is recognized as a Vedacharya (Vedic teacher), and includes in his scope of Agni represents Jnana Yoga or the Yoga of studies , Yoga, and Vedic Knowledge, which proceeds through the heat astrology, as well as the ancient Vedic teachings and friction of introspection and self-inquiry. going back to the oldest . This is the main upward movement of the soul. Vamadeva is a recipient of the Similarly, Soma represents or the prestigious Padma Bhushan award, one of the Yoga of Devotion, which proceeds through the highest civilian awards by the government of flow of surrender. This is the main descending India, “for distinguished service of a higher movement of grace. order to the nation,” honoring his work and writings as a Vedic teacher, which he received Self-inquiry (Jnana Yoga) is the best, simplest in March 2015. and most direct method for cultivating our inner

26 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

Kurukshetra: A SHORT VISITOR’S GUIDE

Dwaraka. He also took bath in Brahma Sarovara and the Sannihit Sarovara water tanks. It is said that the Brahma Sarovara tank is one of the most important in all of India, and that all the holy waters of India are found in the Brahma Sarovara during an eclipse, which is why millions of pilgrims come here to bathe during such an event. It is also said that those who bathe here, live here, visit, or die in Kuruksetra go to heaven after death. In the Kurukshetra Mahatmya of the Stephen Knapp the sage Pulastya says that even the (Sri Nandanandana Dasa) dust of Kurukshetra will cause one to reach the highest goal. This is the benefit for all who died uruksetra is a spiritually important and in the battle of Kurukshetra 5,000 years ago, and peaceful town which no pilgrim should one reason why the battle took place here. It is miss. It is 118 kilometers north of Delhi, K another reason why every pilgrim should visit or about a four hour train ride or three hour auto this holy place. It is also explained that if a person ride away. It is most noted for being the place walks eight miles along the River, he will where Lord Krishna sang the Bhagavad-gita, acquire the merit of performing one ashwamedha which means the “song of God,” to his friend ritual. In Kashi (Varansi) one gets the same result . Therefore, this town is considered the by walking only four miles, and only two miles cradle of Vedic culture, part of the battlefield of when walking in Kurukshetra. the Mahabharata war, and the birth place of the Bhagavad-gita. The Bhagavad-gita is a classic Furthermore, it is said that Manu wrote the text of India and Vedic thought. Every December Manu- here. Some people also believe there is the festival of Gita Jayanti, which is the that Vyasadeva wrote some of the Vedic texts, celebration of Krishna relating the Bhagavad-gita such as the Mahabharata, at his along the when thousands of pilgrims visit Kurukshetra. banks of the Sarasvati River when the Sarasvati The name of the town is believed to have come used to flow through Kurukshetra. This is not to from King Kuru, the son of Samvarana and contradict the premise that he also wrote Vedic Tapati, and the ancestor of the Kauravas and the texts in his ashrama near Badrinatha. The Rig . and Sama Vedas may have been written here as well. Even Lord Buddha is said to have visited Not only was the Bhagavad-gita sung by Lord Kuruksetra. Krishna in Kurukshetra, but other spiritually important events also took place here. Krishna While we are here, there are several places met his friends and residents of Vrindavana we want to visit. First of all, Jyotisar is the place here during an eclipse while He was living in

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 27 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year where Krishna related the Bhagavad-gita to His rule, , the chief of the Kauravas, said devotee Arjuna. This is about 10 kilometers he would not give them enough land with which north of town. It is a pleasant motor-ricksha ride to stick in a pin. away, and it provides a time to meditate on the occasion when the huge armies gathered on these After all peaceful negotiations were exhausted, plains thousands of years ago. Jyotisar is now a the Pandavas agreed that there was no other small park with a central tree over a small choice than to fight. Even Lord Krishna went marble that marks where Krishna sang the and personally asked the Kauravas to settle the Bhagavad-gita and showed Arjuna His universal matter in a peaceful way, but this was not what form. The banyan tree is said to be the same tree was destined to be. Each side then amassed as when Krishna and Arjuna were present and, huge armies from all over India and beyond. In thus, the only living witness to the event. There fact, the Kurus had a much larger army and far is a large pond of water here that provides for a greater warriors than the Pandavas. However, the refreshing atmosphere. There are also a greatest ally of the Pandavas was their few other small shrines, like an old great moral and spiritual character, Shiva temple. It is most pleasant THE BHAGAVAD- and their friend Sri Krishna, the to sit and meditate on the GITA IS THE most powerful personality. significance of the area and ESSENCE OF ALL VEDIC read some of the Bhagavad- PHILOSOPHY AND IS When it was time for gita while visiting. COMAPOSED OF 700 VERSES the huge armies to face AND EXPLAINS SUCH TOPICS each other on the plains The history of the AS THE NATURE OF THE SOUL, of Kuruksetra, there were Battle of Kuruksetra GOD, THE MATERIAL UNIVERSE, many millions of warriors, and the speaking of the ACTIVITIES AND KARMA, horses, , and Bhagavad-gita can be told REINCARNATION, THE elephants ready to fight. briefly. The five PROCESS OF YOGA, THE Before the battle, Krishna, brothers, born of King PURPOSE OF LIFE, who was serving as Arjuna’s , were the legitimate chariot driver and advisor, AND MORE. heirs to the kingdom of India. drove Arjuna’s chariot between However, when the Pandavas the two great armies. Seeing the were still young, Pandu died untimely number of friends and relatives on each and , the head of the Kuru family, side ready to fight each other, Arjuna hesitated assumed control until the Pandavas were and felt much grief over the situation. He felt it grown. However, due to his love for his own was useless to fight. He preferred to retire to the sons, Dhritarashtra engaged in many plots and forest and live as a recluse and meditate. It was intrigues to eliminate the Pandavas so his sons, then that Krishna took the opportunity to sing the the Kauravas, could inherit the kingdom. After Bhagavad-gita to Arjuna to show him that action many years of tribulations, close escapes from for devotional service and to protect Sanatana- death, and fourteen years of exile, the Pandavas dharma is a higher standard. returned to reclaim their rights to the throne. However, the Kurus were not inclined to honor The Bhagavad-gita is the essence of all Vedic the Pandavas in any way. Even after asking for philosophy and is composed of 700 verses only five villages, one for each of the Pandavas to and explains such topics as the nature of the

28 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year soul, God, the material universe, activities and the act of listening to as he instructs karma, reincarnation, the process of yoga, the Yudhisthira on the path of dharma, or spiritual purpose of life, and more. After all this was merit. There is also a deity of Krishna in His explained to Arjuna, he took courage with proper universal form. At one end of the kund is also a understanding and fought. Thereafter, the war of huge 26-foot tall deity of . There is also Kurukshetra lasted for 18 days in which several a little temple here of Sita-Rama, Lakshmana, million warriors died in the fierce fighting. Then Hanuman, and . When we are finished the Pandavas were rightfully established in their here, next we’ll go to the large Brahma Sarovara kingdom, and Sri Krishna had provided His tank. eternal instructions in the form of the Bhagavad- gita for all of humanity. This is all elaborated in There is another place called Bana Ganga the Mahabharata which is composed of 100,000 southwest of Kurukshetra in Dayalpur. This is verses, making it the longest poem in literary a small kund where Arjuna had stopped to rest history. his horses on his way to fight with . In order to quench the thirst of his horses, he shot his When we leave Jyotisar, our next stop is at arrow called Parjanyastra into the ground which Bishma Kund, also called Bana Ganga. This is generated the necessary water. There is also a where Grandfather Bhishma fell on the tenth temple of Goddess Bala Sundari on the premises, day of the battle of Kurukshetra, but remained and a large Hanuman image. laying there until the sun entered the northern hemisphere. The battle was so fierce that Bhishma’s Brahma Sarovara is one of the holiest tanks back was covered with arrows. Finally, he fell on in India and is where millions of pilgrims gather his back and laid on what appeared as a bed of to bathe during an eclipse. One who bathes here arrows. Then Krishna and the Pandavas, hearing is said to receive the merit of performing an the news, gathered around him as he prepared ritual, and one is freed from all sins by to leave this world. Bhishma was one of the bathing here during an eclipse. This is where Lord greatest and most respected of the warriors on the Brahma performed a large sacrificial ceremony battlefield. As he lay there, he became thirsty and and also from where he manifested the earth Arjuna shot an arrow into the ground from which planet in the process of creation. Legend has it sprang water to quench Bhishma’s thirst. that Brahma Sarovara was excavated first by King This later formed into what is now a small kund or Kuru long before the epic battle of Kurukshetra. water tank called Bana Ganga, or Bhishma Kund. It is a huge tank (half a kilometer wide and one Bathing in it is said to give the benefits of bathing kilometer long) with an island in the middle at all the holy tirthas. This is also where Bishma connected by a road that cuts through it. On the gave the teachings of Rajadharma (statecraft) and island is a water well called the Chandra Kupa Anushasana (discipline) to Yudhisthira. Bishma Well, one of the oldest sacred wells. Tradition has also sang the Vishnusahasranama (The Thousand it that in ancient times the water in the well would Names of Vishnu) to Lord Krishna before he change to during the solar eclipse. Next to departed this world. the well is a small -Krishna temple where Yudhisthira is said to have built a victory pillar Next to the kund is a small temple that after the successful culmination of the war. This has images of Bhishma on the bed of arrows lake is also where Krishna, His brother , surrounded by Krishna and the Pandavas in and His sister came from Dwaraka to

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 29 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year bathe during an eclipse. Along the side of the tank merit of having performed 1,000 ashvamedha is a smaller island with the Sarveshwar Mahadeva ceremonies. Lord Krishna also bathed here and (Shiva) temple on it. met the gopis and residents of Vrindavana when He was present. It is also accepted that it was here The streets nearby have a number of other where Lord accepted the bones from the temples that we can visit, such as the Birla Gita great sage Dadhichi, which were so powerful that Mandir. This has a deity of Krishna in the act of they were used in making a Vajra or thunderbolt explaining the Bhagavad-gita to Arjuna. Outside for killing the demon Vritasura. is a chariot with images of Krishna and Arjuna on it. Down the road along Brahma Sarovara are On the eastern end of the tank are several small other temples and ashramas, many of which are temples to Vishnu, Dhruva, Hanuman, Durga, quite nice. You can simply ride down the street Lakshmi-Narayana, Surya, etc. Across the road and stop to see the ones you want to visit. is a large, beautiful temple to Lakshmi-Narayana. There are also numerous found here, and Nearby is Sannihit Sarovara, another lake those who merely look like sadhus. In fact, as I or water tank that is very significant. It is not walked around the lake on one occasion, I came as large as Brahma Sarovara, but it is fairly big upon a group of sadhus who, instead of engaging (1500 by 450 feet). Sannihit means the assembly in meditation or reading scriptures, etc., were of the entire range of holy tirthas or sacred sites, sitting and playing a game of cards. When I asked which is said to happen every Amavas, or eclipse, them if I could take a photo, a few instantly said especially the Somavati Amavas (lunar eclipse). It no. Playing like a naive tourist, I asked why not, is also said that all of the sacred holy places gather and one answered, “What do you think?” They here on the new Moon day, and that this is where thought I was going to take a photo and then give the seven sacred Sarasvatis meet. Performing it to the newspapers. Of course, I knew why they the shraddha ceremony for the benefit of the didn’t want their photo taken: They didn’t want ancestors and bathing during the eclipse is said to be seen that way because they would lose their to purify you of all your sins and give you the credibility. This made me realize how few real

30 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year sadhus actually exist. from the tank is considered sacred and to have healing powers. A few drops of the water from the Not far from here is a very impressive, tank is said to have cured King Ban or Vena of government operated Krishna Museum. Every leprosy. The temples around the tank have very aspect of this museum is related to the pastimes beautiful deities of Krishna, Radha-Govinda, of Krishna and the various ways to express Sita-Rama and Lakshmana, Shiva, Durga, etc., devotion to Him. The museum has a wide and an ancient Shiva lingam. The present temple assortment of brass, metal, and wood deities is said to be constructed by Sadashiva Rao Bhau, of Krishna, Jagannatha, along with paintings, the commander-in-chief of the Maratha forces, drawings, sculptures, and artwork from all over to commemorate his victory over Ahmed Shah India. There was also a life-size image of Mother Abdali in the battle of Kunjpura, near . Yasoda with Krishna and Balarama. It also has an According to the Vamana Purana, the tirthas of assortment of costumes and dress from different Shukra, Soma, Daksha and Skanda are located in eras of Indian history. This museum is very nicely the north, east, south, and west parts respectively done and well worth the visit, but don’t take any of this Sthanu , but one who visits the linga photos or, as I was told, they may take away your of Shiva here gets or liberation. The camera. There is also a Multimedia Mahabharata Vamana Purana also says that whoever enters and Gita Gallery for all those who are interested. this Sthanu temple, with or without desires, gets Altogether it is an especially nice exhibit. Also, do emancipation from all karma and attains the not miss the Kurukshetra Panorama & Science supreme seat. Centre, which brings to life the epic battle of the Mahabharata with special acoustic effects. Down the road is the Bhadra temple. Exhibits are also related to various branches of This is another Shaktipeeth, or empowered place science like astronomy, medicine, chemistry, related to , which marks the place where botany, and zoology. Sati’s ankle fell when Lord Vishnu cut her dead body into pieces as it was being held by Lord Our next stop is Kamal Nabha or Nabhi, which Shiva. This was after she left her body when is a water kund said to mark the place where she had been insulted by her father, Daksha, in Brahma was born out of the lotus flower that arose for having Shiva as her husband. A from the nabhi or navel of Lord Vishnu. This is marble sculpture of a right ankle is placed over located in the old town of . The water the well where Sati’s ankle fell. It is visited by a tank here is not that large and is green with algae, large number of devotees. but is very significant. There is only a small shrine with Lakshmi-Narayana deities and a picture The Iskcon Krishna temple is in the bazaar in on the wall of Vishnu with Brahma on the lotus the older part of town. If you can get there in the coming from Vishnu’s navel. In the entranceway morning you can have darshan of the beautiful are a few other small deities. Radha-Krishna deities, which stand about two feet tall, and the smaller Gaura-Nitai deities. Another short ride to a different part of town You can also attend the arati and have a nice takes us to the Sthaneswara temple and tank. prasadam breakfast. The temple is quite nice and This is also quite interesting and is where the expanding. They also have guest quarters on the Pandavas prayed to Lord Shiva for blessings to be top floor where visitors can stay. The number of victorious in the war of Kurukshetra. The water devotees is small, but they are very friendly and

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 31 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year helpful. In fact, they helped arrange my motor the place of Pehowa where the ancient Sarasvati ricksha transportation to see the holy places in River is commemorated, and is famous for the town the first time I came to visit Kurukshetra. performance of the shraddha ceremonies for the However, they are building a new and very large ancestors. The tirtha of Prithudaka is mentioned temple on the road on the way to Jyotisar, which in the and Mahabharata, where Matinara, will be in the shape of a chariot. So many people a king in the Puru lineage, performed many will be stopping to see this new temple. rituals here on the bank of the Sarasvati River, which is now mostly dried up and no longer flows Another place to see is the Dharohar through Kurukshetra as it did during the times of Sangrahalaya, established in 2006, which houses the Mahabharata. a variety of objects like agricultural and domestic implements and art and craft items from the Jind and Safidon are towns where you will find state of Haryana. It also has archaeological such tirthas as Ram Hridaya where artifacts, manuscripts, wall paintings, folk performed a spiritual ceremony. At Birhi Kalan near music instruments, ornaments, weapons, etc., Jind is Varaha Tirtha where Lord Varaha appeared to highlight the culture and rich traditions of in order to save the earth. Sarp Damam, in Safidon, Haryana. is where , the son of Maharaja Pariksit, performed a fire sacrifice in order to destroy all the There is also the Kalpana Chawla Memorial after his father was bitten by the bird Planetarium named after Dr. Kalpana Chawla, Takshaka from a curse by Shringi, as described in India’s famous astronaut and space scientist. This the Srimad-Bhagavatam. This is in connection with has been set up by Haryana State Council for the holy town of Shukratal. If you have the time to Science & Technology for imparting non-formal do some research, the library at Kuruksetra has a education in astronomy so anyone can learn more good collection of Vedic literature in Sanskrit and about this form of science. However most shows English. are run in Hindi language, but when needed, they are shown in both Hindi and English. Many of the sites mentioned herein will likely change greatly in their appearance over the There is an assortment of other noteworthy next few years because the government plans to places around Kuruksetra, some of which you may spend a lot of money to make these sites more want to visit if you have time. Altogether there tourist and pilgrim friendly. They plan to make a are still about 134 important pilgrimage sites that “Krishna Tour” for the many pilgrims so they can are still known today, of which we will describe a easily see the sites connected with Krishna and few. For example, the mound called Amin, eight India’s history. This will include Kurukshetra and miles outside of town, is where Arjuna’s son, many other places in Haryana, but also places like , was caught in the Chakra Vyuha Vrindavana which will also be a part of this tour. military formation and killed during the battle of Kuruksetra, as described in the Mahabharata. In this way, Kurukshetra has much to offer the And the Vadha trench is where Karna, the sincere pilgrim and also elaborates the significance Pandavas half-brother who fought against them, of the Bhagavad-gita. Some people stay for a day, was killed when his chariot got stuck there. but Kurukshetra deserves a few days to see and absorb all it has to offer. About 40 kilometers from Kurukshetra is This article and more information at www.stephen-knapp.com

32 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

TERROR IN THE NAME OF GOD AND ALLAH

In primary school I learnt that Islam expanded through “fire and sword”. It was a meaningless phrase for me as a child. Only later, it dawned that it involved tremendous cruelty. This cruelty was not restricted to Islam. The Christian ‘expansion’ and the Inquisition were equally brutal. Indians experienced it firsthand in Goa.

In the 1970s, at University, we debated why religion has caused so much bloodshed. The Maria Wirth debate was on ‘why’ not on ‘if’. In 2000, a change in this approach became apparent. When Pope John Paul II finally he biggest problem in today’s world acknowledged the cruelty of the Inquisition, and is terrorism, many political leaders asked forgiveness from God, he did not blame the acknowledge. The strange thing is that T Church but ‘sons and daughters of the Church’ they close their eyes to its root cause. This closing who committed ‘mistakes’. He tried to absolve of eyes is seen as politically correct. Naturally, the religion and laid the blame on ‘misguided’ there is little chance to improve things but it’s followers. likely to get worse. This same pattern is followed today regarding If someone commits an act of terror, he must Islam. When Jihadis attack innocent citizens be motivated. Yet this motivation is ignored, shouting ‘Allah ho Akbar’, politicians, Muslim because in most terror cases in our times, terror representatives and media declare that those is connected with Islam, and if someone hints at terror acts have nothing to do with Islam but this fact, he is promptly accused of . are the handiwork of misguided or deranged Yet also used terror in earlier times. individuals. In fact Christianity was the first to make the The reaction is so predictable: “The attack is unsubstantiated claim that God has given the shocking, revulsive, a cowardly act, but we stand full truth only to the Church and everyone must united. We won’t let them win”, etc. believe it at the cost of their lives. And Islam followed with a similar claim. Terrorism in the Then in major cities (provided the attack name of God started right then, by forcing “those happened in the West, as lives lost in Africa or who are wrong” into the “right” faith or killing Asia don’t seem to matter so much) a landmark them. Millions of people were killed – from building is lit up in the colors of the country America to India and beyond. where the attack happened, candles are lit…

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We have gone through these motions far too who make Jihad in the cause of Allah with their often and there is something fake about it. The wealth and their persons. Allah has granted a pain of those affected is real. Others may be higher rank to those who make Jihad with their grateful that it had not hit them – at least not this wealth and their persons than to those who stay at time. Yet most politicians are not honest. home. Though Allah has promised a good reward for all, Allah has prepared a much richer reward True, the attacks are shocking and revulsive, for those who make Jihad for Him than for those but they are not cowardly acts. The Jihadi kills who stay at home. They have special higher because he is convinced that it is his duty to kill ranks, forgiveness and mercy. Allah is forgiving, Kafirs – and he is even ready to die in doing what merciful.” (Q4. 95-96). he feels is right. This shows courage. Almost all terrorists are young. It is not normal, nor easy Imagine a young, hot-headed Muslim reads to risk one’s life by killing others, unless he is this – would he not be inspired to make his life absolutely convinced that the benefit is greater “worthwhile”? Even more so, if he has phantasies than the cost. of becoming a hero with a gun? He probably considers dying as a small price for greater glory. AND WHAT DOES HE EXPECT AS As Sultan Shahin once pointed out, children in BENEFIT? madrasas, who often are treated badly, sing songs Probably he was taught already as a kid or has with the refrain “zindagi shuru hoti hai qubr read it later on the internet that killing Kafirs mein” (life starts in the grave). pleases Allah. By doing so, he can make his life truly worthwhile, and he will be richly rewarded: Curiously, old, sick Muslims don’t seem to be he will have a better status in paradise than those interested in the “higher status in paradise” when who did not kill Kafirs. it would make much more sense for them. Does it mean, they are more mature and know that the Now here is where we Kafirs are either cowards Quran must not be taken literally? or ignorant. We don’t dare to point to passages in the Quran, which support his expectation, for Is it not their and our duty, to save not only example Q 4.95 and ask what it means if not what the potential victims of future terror attacks but is written there. also the young Muslims who are ready to throw away their lives for a promise which won’t be “Those believers who stay at home – having kept? After all, Christianity also claims that no physical disability – are not equal to those

34 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year only those who are baptized can enter heaven. inhumanity. How do we know? Because we have a A comment to one of my tweets recently read: conscience which tells us what is right and what is “I don’t understand why those religions portray wrong. Right is dharmic and wrong is adharmic. their God like underworld dons. ‘If you leave our Hinduism is based on Dharma and that’s why gang, if you are not a follower of our God, then Hindus can never cause terror in the name of you will be fried in hot oil in hell’”… the one Brahman or their many Devas. Our conscience is the voice of Dharma which guides Can a merciful Supreme Being behave like a us through life. If we listen to it, we realize that jilted lover who gives hell to those who love him the whole of humanity is one family. The life in under another name? all of us comes from the same, most powerful yet We need to ask probing questions. Those invisible, source. must include the question: why in an area where Religions which demand that we ignore our Muslims have become the majority, the number conscience and instead believe blindly what they of minorities keeps dwindling till they become tell us (two of them exist), have an agenda. They almost non-existent? want sheep who don’t think for themselves and Yes, it is difficult to believe that terror attacks who can be used for their own purpose. have anything to do with religion. Religion is Terrorists are not cowards, but they are not understood to be something good. It is meant smart. They got the purpose of life wrong and to connect us with the Highest and to make us they won’t be rewarded for harming and killing better human beings. We want to believe that other human beings. the cause for terror attacks is something else. ‘All religions worship the same one God. No religion Source: https://mariawirthblog.wordpress.com/2020/12/05/terror-in- the-name-of-god-and-allah/ can condone killing others’, most of us will say. But is it true? ABOUT THE AUTHOR We need to find out. If we don’t dare to do this, Maria Wirth is a German and came to India for we are cowards. a holiday after finishing her psychology studies at Hamburg University. She visited the Ardha Let’s imagine we discover that there are indeed Kumbha Mela in Haridwar in April 1980 where passages in the Islamic texts that condone terror she met Sri and Devaraha against infidels, what will be the next step? Baba, two renowned saints. With their blessing she continued to live in India and dived into Then we need to bring in common sense and India’s spiritual tradition, sharing her insights debate on the meaning of life and enquire into the with German readers through articles and absolute truth. India has the knowledge and must books. For long, she was convinced that every take the lead in this, because the Christian West Indian knows and treasures his great heritage. is handicapped though many Christians, except However, when in recent years, she noticed those who earn their livelihood from the Church, that there seemed to be a concerted effort to meanwhile don’t divide humanity any longer prevent Indians (and the world) from knowing into ‘us versus the rest’. Yet both the Muslim and how valuable this ancient Indian heritage is, Christian clergy does. Instead, another dividing she started to point out the unique value of line must be drawn: It is the line between Indian tradition. humanity and inhumanity. She may be contacted via email mariawirth12@ gmail.com Terror and hatred for other human beings is

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EMBRACE EVERY SEASON

Siddheshwari Devi (Didi Ji)

TOP TEN REASONS TO LOVE GOD Countless family members have been with you 1. Because He gives without expecting anything and now you are separated from them. Even the from you. most intimate worldly relationship comes to an Everyone expects something back from you, even end one day. God, however, has always been with if it is a thank you note, a hug or a smile. God you and will always be by your side. is the only one who keeps giving without any expectation. 5. Because He forgives your countless offences. Even though His child has committed countless 2. Because you have every possible relationship sins, God forgives everything if His child becomes with Him. truly repentant. In the world your mother is only your mother. She is not your father, brother, sister and child 6. Because He is always looking at you without along with being your mother. God is mother, blinking. father, brother, sister, child and beloved. You What if He blinks and at that very moment you are the spirit soul and you have each and every decide to surrender to Him? The moment you relationship with Him. surrender, He has to destroy your ignorance, burn your uncountable actions, and give you unlimited 3. Because He is the only one who has always knowledge. So, He never blinks. been with you. Wherever the soul goes after leaving the physical 7. Because He has been infinitely patient with body, God goes along as well. He never leaves you you. alone for even the tiniest moment. There is no end to His patience. Patiently He waits for you to run into His loving arms as you run 4. Because He will always remain with you. in the opposite direction. But He waits and waits

36 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year and waits. All because of love. getting soaking wet with the garden hose.

8. Because He is all-merciful. While adults bicker about having to clean up The only thing He knows to do is to shower mercy so many leaves in the autumn season, children on one and all. Even as He punishes His children, happily dive into the pile of those leaves. He does it to grace them. We would do well to enjoy not just the 9. Because He never forgets you even though changing seasons of Nature but also the changing you forget Him. seasons of life. Whatever season is yours at this Although you may forget Him, He never forgets time, learn to appreciate it. Embrace it and enjoy to grace you. He is the merciful mother who it like a child. continues to love her child even though the child may be kicking her. AN ENDING LEADS TO A NEW BEGINNING 10. Because His love for you is immeasurable. We hear and use the expression, “Everything It is absolutely impossible to measure the love good must come to an end one day.” We speak God has for you. Because of that love He gives these words with a regretful sigh. We lament the you the power of critical thinking. Because of that passing of something good that we had in life. It’s love He gives you fruits of your actions by taking true that everything good comes to an end one note of every single thought of yours. day. It’s also true that everything bad comes to an end one day. If a marriage comes to an end, the EMBRACE EVERY SEASON abuse, fights and arguments between two people One of the best gifts Nature gives us is the gift also come to an end. If a popular boys’ band of seasons, with each season bringing along its breaks up, it is the beginning of a solo career for own unique flavor. We can choose to appreciate band members. When high school education each season and enjoy it, or completely become comes to an end, college life begins. oblivious to it and even grumble endlessly about it. Rather than grieving the end of something we hold dear, let’s celebrate the beginning of We can take inspiration by observing children something new. When spring comes to an end, who enjoy every season that comes along. summertime arrives. When summer comes to an end, the autumn season arrives. When autumn While adults lament the rain that never stops, comes to an end, winter begins. Every season has children have fun playing in the rain and splashing its own beauty worth noticing and appreciating. in mud puddles. When life as we knew it comes to an end, While grownups complain about the sudden challenges begin. It’s a waste of time brooding snowfall, kids shriek with excitement as they slide over the changes and wishing everything to have down the driveway in their make-shift toboggans. remained the same. We should live constructively by embracing challenges and adapting ourselves While parents complain to each other about to meet these challenges. We should also keep in the sweltering heat, children enjoy the simple mind that challenges will also come to an end one pleasure of going through the water sprinkler and day.

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We reminisce about the ‘good old days.’ We Everyone needs a mental refreshment now and mourn the days that will never return. While then. Think about it! Your mind is working all the mourning the loss of our past, we overlook the time. Even when you sleep, the mind is working present which is not bad at all. The days of the past hard to produce dreams. There are times when the had to end for the present to arrive. Appreciate mind is overloaded, resulting in tensions, worries the new beginnings rather than holding on to the and anxieties. For the mind to destress itself, it past. needs lighter moments. So, engage in something the mind takes delight in. No two people are the The caterpillar must shed its former self for the same. Therefore, decide on what works for you. butterfly to arrive. Every ending leads to a new Even as you plan such an activity, the dopamine beginning. levels in your brain start to increase. You start feeling good. LIGHTER MOMENTS Taking out the time to destress and to regroup A simple remedy for turning dull routine of is not something frivolous. In many cases it is a everyday life into pleasure is……lighter moments. lifeline. It will not take away productivity from These are moments of easy laughter and playful your life; on the contrary, it will make you more banter. These are the times when you take a short productive. Get up from your desk and stand in break and share a joke with a friend or a loved the sun for 5-10 minutes. Do some fun stretches one; when you kick up your feet or soak them in in your back yard, or on the park bench. Meditate warm water and Epsom salts. These are times you in the middle of your day. Replace the frown on steal from your everyday life and prepare a face your face with a beautiful smile. mask with turmeric and milk. These are the times you drive to your local Amish community to get Email: [email protected] the freshest milk from grass fed cows.

38 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2020 1970-2020 Golden Jubilee Year

VHPA - Executive Board (EB) Samskar - Values Director, Bal Vihar/Youth Programs Manju Tiwari [email protected] Director, Camps/Retreats TBD Coordinator, Coalition of Hindu Youth(CHY) Samir Asthana [email protected] Preya Dave [email protected] Prachar: Interfaith, Community & Government Relations VP, Interfaith, Community & Government Relations Sant Gupta [email protected] Director, Newsletter & Monographs Dr. Surendra Pandey [email protected] Hindu Chaplaincy Shama Mehta [email protected] Calendar & Government Relations Sandip Shah [email protected] Prachar - Awareness, Media, Public Relations Exec.VP, Awareness, Media, Public Relations Dr. Ajay Shah [email protected] Director, PR & Media Utsav Chakrabarty [email protected] Coordinator, PR & Media Monik Mehra [email protected] Coordinator, PR & Media Nirav Patel [email protected] Director, American Hindus Against Defamation (AHAD) Dr. Ajay Shah [email protected] Prachar - Publications VP, Publications Shyam Tiwari [email protected] Sampark - Network VP, Networking Sanjay Kaul [email protected] Director, Inter Organizations Communication Dr. Umesh Shukla [email protected] Convener, Hindu Mandir Executives Conference (HMEC) Dr. Vipul Patel [email protected] Director, Hindu Mandir Priests’ Conference (HMPC) Sant Gupta (Acting) [email protected] Director, Hindu American Vanaprasthi Network (HAVAN) Vinod Gupta [email protected] Co-Director, Hindu American Vanaprasthi Network (HAVAN) Kumar Dave [email protected] Co-Director, Hindu American Vanaprasthi Network (HAVAN) Dr. Chandra Reddy [email protected] Director, HWN (Hindu Women’s Network) Neelam Jaiswal [email protected] Advisor, HAVAN Arvind Patel [email protected] Seva - Service VP, Seva Renu Gupta [email protected] Director, Support A Child (SAC) Jayant Daftardar Mani [email protected] Director, Seva in America (SIA) Keeran [email protected] Advisor, Seva Girish Gandhi [email protected] Finance VP, Finance Vimal Sodhani [email protected] Treasurer (Advisor) Jayesh Mehta [email protected] Co-Treasurer Anit Gupta [email protected] Co-Treasurer Vasav Mehta [email protected] Infrastructure & Organizational Functions Coordinator, Training and Document Repository Rakesh Kansara [email protected] Co-Coordinator, Training and Document Repository Toral Mehta [email protected] Director, Technology Dharmendra Kumar [email protected] Director, Membership Dhaval Joshipura [email protected] Director, Office Matters Gaurang Vaishnav [email protected] Election Officer - Nomination Nikhil Buch [email protected] Election Officer Dinesh Modh [email protected] Joint General Secretary Amitabh Mittal [email protected] Joint General Secretary Tejal Shah [email protected] Organizing Secretary (NE) Acting Sanjay Kaul Organizing Secretary (MW) Sanjay Shah [email protected] Organizing Secretary (SE&S) Sneha Mehta [email protected] Organizing Secretary (WC) TBD General Secretary Sanjay Mehta [email protected] President Dr. Abhaya Asthana [email protected] Advisory Board Chairperson Jyotish Parekh [email protected]

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