NRI Newsletter

An Initiative of SRI KANCHI KAMAKOTI PEETAM Volume III, Issue II – March 2021 – Kanchipuram (For private circulation only)

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 1 of 25

Message from Acharya Swamigal to NRI’s devotees Shruti Smriti Puranānām Ālayam Karunālayam Namaami Bhagavadpāda Shankaram Loka Shankaram Sadāshiva Samārambhām Shankarāchārya Madhyamām Asmad Ācharya Paryantam Vande Guruparamparām

Acharya Swamigal’s Anugraha Bhashan during Kalpoondi Gramam, North Arcot Jilla visit on 06-Oct- 2015 We do many things in our lives but Service to Lord is most important Mata Cha Parvati Devi Pita Devo Maheshvaraha Baandhavaaha Shiva Bhaktascha Svadesho Bhuvanatrayam Parvati & Parameshwara as the Mother & Father of the Universe, care and nurture the entire creation. There are different names for Lord Shiva like Pashupatinatha, Kailashanatha etc. . Vishwanatha is one of the names and the Lord here is Vishwanatha Swamy. Vishwam is the first Nama in Vishnu Sahasranama means World. The Lord who bestows Buddhi, Shakti & thought and protects the entire creation as its Leader is Vishwanatha Swamy. The Goddess here is Vishalakshi Amman. *Broad Mindedness and avoiding of narrow mind is important. One who wishes for the welfare of individual, society, village & entire world demonstrates this broad mindedness & broad vision. This is got by the blessings of Vishalakshi Amman*.

The temple is located on the banks of Kamandalu Naganadi. Kamandalu is an important feature in our traditions. The renovated new Mandapam benefits devotees. People should visit temple and serve the lord. We do many things in our lives but Service to Lord is most important. We hear of Mulporikki Nayanar who use to clean the streets and keep it ready for the arrival of the Lord. Other Nayanmars were also known for their Ulavarapani (cleaning temples). We should inculcate habit of doing at least one minute of Dhyana along with Tilaka Dharanam and submitting one Bilva to the Lord- Eka Bilvam Shivarpanam. Trees like Ashvattha, Iluppai etc should be planted in villages. Hindu Samayam is very ancient & great. We should imbibe its messages and cultivate good habits. Subrahmanyan Bhujangam with Tamil translation is being released by the devotees and native of Kalpoondi village. In villages we grow paddy and other cereals, simultaneously we have to train our mind in good things and dedicate it in good prayers. God is ready to bless even those who just think of him ‘Smaranaad Arunachalam…’ but we should think of God. Generations to generations our ancestors have followed this Hindu Dharma. Bhakti should grow and everyone should get blessings of Lord. Adi Sankara says in Subrahmanyan Bhujangam that just as waves recede on reaching the shore, all difficulties subside by darshan of Subrahmanyan Swamy at Tiruchendur. The greatness of Patra Bhuti is also illustrated in the Subrahmanyan Bhujangam. This is all written in this book. Every member of the family should involve in temple and beget blessings of Vishalakshi Amba Sameta Vishwanatha Swamy.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 2 of 25

Hara Hara Namah Parvatipataye Tennattudaya Shiavane Potri Ennetavrkum Iraiva Potri Vetrivel Muruganukku - Haro Hara (3 times) We should tell the name of Lord without any hesitation. *Acharya Swamigal was camping at Adayapalam village

Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara

Editorial: Sanatana Dharma offers adequate variety and a wonderful way of life that is enabling all living forms. Every individual feels respected, included, and holds a significant place in the society. To name a person based on this dharma, is a way to express gratitude and to align ourselves to the spiritual, pure, and mesmerizing memories that our ancient civilizations have bestowed upon us. Namakaranam.com intends to carry out this vision. This website is run with the benign blessings of Acharya Swamigal of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam and was launched on the auspicious 53rd Jayanthi. https://namakaranam.com/

This issue covers the Holy Camp from 15th Jan 2021 by HIS HOLINESS PUJYASRI SANKARA VIJAYENDRA SARASWATI SANKARAACHARYA SWAMIGAL:

Period Camp Location 15-Jan-2021 till 12-Feb-2021 Sri Matam, Kanchipuram 13-Feb-2021 till 14-Feb-2021 13/7, Shankarlal Jain Street, Nehru Nagar, Chromepet, Chennai 15-Feb-2021 Shriram School, Omandur, Tindivanam 16-Feb-2021 Sri Shankara Matam Jagadguru Vidyasthanam, Tiruvanaikovil 17-Feb-2021 till 18-Feb-2021 Ilayathangudi, Shankar Math, 65th Acharya Adhishthanam 19-Feb-2021 till 25-Feb-2021 Sri Shankara Matam, Rameswaram, Agnitheertham 26-Feb-2021 till 27-Feb-2021 Sri Shankara Matam, Chokikulam, Madurai 28-Feb-2021 till 03-Mar-2021 Sri Shankara Matam Jagadguru Vidyasthanam, Tiruvanaikovil 04-Mar-2021 till date Sri Shankara Matam, Kumbakonam

Devotees are encouraged to share spiritual/religious events in their respective cities which can be included in the subsequent edition. You are invited to get in touch with any one of the devotees comprising the editorial team of this issue of the Newsletter. To make the future NRI Newsletters more informative and useful, we welcome your feedback. Kanikkai samarpanam can be performed through e-seva portal www.kanchimuttseva.org.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 3 of 25

Mattu Pongal (15-Jan-2021)

Acharya Swamigal visit to Kilambi- Kanu Pongal Vizha (17-Jan-2021) Acharya Swamigal visited Kilambi village to bless Kanu Pongal Vizha organised by local villagers. Acharya Swamigal first visited Adhishthanam of 60th Acharya of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Sri Advaitatmaprakashendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal. The Adhishthanam is in the midst of agricultural fields. Walking through the fields Acharya Swamigal reached the Adhishthanam & performed Puja & Harathi. Several centuries ago, in the 13th Century, the village was given as a gift to the then Shankaracharya of Sri Kanchi Math. Details of copper plate inscriptions from ‘The Copper Plate inscriptions of Sri Sankaracharya Swami of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam’ by Sri Gopinath Rao is given for reference.

नारिकेलाम्रपनसतालवृन्तादिशोदितम्। अम्बिकापुिनामानं ग्रामदिन्तामद ं ििौ॥

The copper plates mention this gift of this village known as “Ambikapuram” by King Vijayaganda Chola. The village is described as Grama “Chintamani”, as a beautiful place endowed with coconut, Mango, Jack Fruit, Palm, and other trees. Many decades back, a Veda Pathashala was being run in the village with blessings of Acharya Swamigal. Kanchi Acharyas Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamigal, Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal & Sri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal had camped in the village in 1984 on their way to Kanchi from Kurnool. The Math still hold few agricultural lands and small tracts of land in the Agrahara. Pujas in the Ambikapatishwara Temple is being performed with support of the Math. Pujas at the Adhishthanam is being done by Veda Pandit from Kanchi Mutt. Acharya Swamigal graced the Pongal Vizha held in the rice mill area of a devotee and blessed the participants. In the Anugraha Bhashanam, Acharya Swamigal, stressed the need for entertainment based on our native culture

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 4 of 25 which helps to develop a strong mind & body and promotes social harmony & oneness. Kilambi Village in about 6 kms from Kanchi on Bangalore Road.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 5 of 25

The extract below to be read from left to right in a sequence starting with the first row

Acharya Swamigal visits Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam Heritage & Cultural Centre, Vedal, (18-Jan-2021) Acharya Swamigal visited Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam Heritage & Cultural Centre, Vedal on 18/1/2021. Parameswara’s Vigraha with a giant Nandi amidst a beautiful garden, Shankar Math Goshala, Veda Pathashala, Nakshatra Vanam, Green Grass Cultivation Area for fresh Cow Fodder, Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Artha Sastra Pathashala, Indian Culture Exhibition & Sri Kanchi Math Photo Gallery are the main features of the centre.

Acharya Swamigal during visit to the Shiva Dhyana Kendra addressed the final session of Kamakshi Vilasam online lectures by Sri Manidravida Sastrigal. Acharya Swamigal spoke about Srichakra Tattvam and the glory of Kamakshi Ambal. Later Acharya Swamigal visited Goshala run by the Math wherein the cows (130) are predominantly of Desi Breed. In the mornings the cows are allowed to graze freely within the compound. The milk is being used for Chandramoulesshwara Puja & Anushthanams at Srimatam. Other products like Varatti etc is being given for havans. With the divine directions of Acharya Swamigal this centre, with involvement of devotees, has implemented Go-Grasam Project in large area to provide fresh green grass to the cows.

Acharya Swamigal then visited Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Artha Sastra Pathashala building where college/university going youth are being trained in tenets of Vaidika Sanatana Dharma in the integrated system of education. The boys numbering about 80 in the Pathashala get an opportunity to study in a serene atmosphere. Acharya Swamigal then blessed the Veda Pathashala children before leaving back to Srimatam. Earlier in the day those involved in the development of Vedal Centre held discussions at Srimatam and sought blessings of Acharya Swamigal in the evening during the visit.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 6 of 25

Acharya Swamigal launched the Sri Ram mandir nirman samarpan samaroh on (31-Jan-2021) Acharya Swamigal blessed the efforts to develop spiritual facilities at the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi area at Ayodhya. With deep and focused blessings, Acharya Swamigal poured handfuls of coins in the hundis specially created for the occasion for donations in cash and kind. Acharyal wants every Sanatana Dharmi to participate in these efforts in whatever manner possible, just as the squirrels contributed when the Sri Ram Sethu was built.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 7 of 25

Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir Nirmaan Samarpan Samaroh (01-Feb-2021) Contribution by devotees towards the construction of Sri Ram Temple at Ayodhya Sri Ram Janmabhoomi totalling more than 6.2 Crores was handed over to the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust at a programme held this evening at Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Kanchipuram. The Hon’ble Governor of Tamilnadu Sri Banwarilal Purohit delivered the presidential address. Acharya Swamigal blessed the occasion with Anugraha Bhashanam. Pujyasri Viswaprasanna Teertha Swamigal of Pejawar Math, Udupi, and Sri Govind Dev Giriji, member trustee and Treasurer of Sri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust spoke on the occasion. JEO of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Sri Dharma Reddy and other officials and priests presented the prasadams of Sri Venkateswara Swami to Acharya Swamigal. Scholars and Exponents of Ramayana in various languages and forms were honoured in the function. Earlier, Ganapati Homam, Rama Sadakshari Homam and Sri Sukta Homam was performed in the morning and the poornahuti took place in the presence of Acharya Swamigal, who performed abhishekam to Sri Ramachandra Murti. Bhajans were rendered throughout the day. Anugraha Bhashanam (video)

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 8 of 25

Veda Sabha on Inauguration of Mantralaya Matham in Chinna Kanchipuram 10-Feb-2021 Acharya Swamigal visited the newly built Mantralayam Math at Eastern Mada Veethi, Varadaraja Swami Temple, Chinna Kanchipuram yesterday. Acharya Swamigal blessed the Veda Sabha held on the occasion and delivered Anugraha Bhashanam. Several Vedic scholars and Bhattacharyas of Varadaraja Swamy temple participated. Sri Subudhendra Teertha, head of Mantralayam Math received Acharya Swamigal and addressed on the occasion. Azhagiya Manavala Jeeyar Swamy also addressed the Sabha. Speaking on the occasion Mantralayam Swamy said that just like confluence of Ganga, Yamuna & Saraswati, today is the confluence of Trimata-three traditions. Acharya Swamigal espoused the need to protect traditional knowledge and patronise scholars. His Holiness spoke about importance of Mantram, Alayam (Temples) & praised the Utsaham & Abhimanam of Sri Subudhendra Teertha Swami of Mantralayam Math. Further, talking about the chanting of Vikriti Pathas of Rigveda & Lakshana Patham in Yajurveda, His Holiness outlined that development in tradition should not be weighed in terms of expansion of buildings or other such factors but should be assessed as to how many Vedic traditions have been revived and how many more Vedic Pandits have imbibed such traditions. Acharya Swamigal stressed that it is the sacred duty of one & all to play a role in protecting Veda Dharma.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 9 of 25

Acharya Swamigal had left from Kanchi at 5 AM after visiting Adhishthanams, Anugna Ganapati and the customary Yatra Danams held in his presence (13-Feb-2021)

Bhumi Puja & Srimatam Camp in Chromepet (13-Feb-2021) Acharya Swamigal graced the Bhoomi Puja and commencement ceremony of Gudiki Okka Godanam Scheme (one cow per temple) of TTD at their upcoming centre in GN Chetty Road, T Nagar yesterday. Acharya Swamigal was received by the Chairman, Executive Officer and other members of the TTD Board. The functions took place in the beautifully decorated premises, which was donated by a devotee to TTD with a specific purpose to build a temple for Padmavathy Ammavaru. Acharya Swamigal spoke about importance of Danam -Charity in general, the three important types of Danas (Cow, Bhumi & Gold), the benefit of such Charity in sustaining Dharma. His Holiness then reached Srimatam Camp at Chrompet Veda Patasala at 11 am and performed Puja in ‘Jayendra Hall’. Acharya Swamigal continuously gave darshan to devotees till late night. Several dignitaries included the Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Sri O Panneerselvam who visited with his family for darshan of Acharya Swamigal.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 10 of 25

After the pujas, Srimatam camp moved to Sriram School, Omandur, Tindivanam in the evening.

Acharya Swamigal is camping at Rameswaram Shankar Math from 18-Feb-2021 Shankar Math Rameswaram: Brief & Photo feature - The Shankar Math at Rameswaram is one of the unique branches of Kanchi Math. The Math was renovated & consecrated by Kanchi Acharyas HH Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal & HH Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal in 1960’s. The Math is situated right on the Agni Teertham on the Sannidhi Street. Any devotee taking a dip in the Teertham can never miss the grand Adi Shankara Mandapam overlooking the Teertham. Hanuman Sannidhi, Dwadasha Jyotirlingam, Paduka Mandapam, Chandramouleeshwara Puja Mandapam, shrines for Panchayatana Murtis, Shodasha Ganapati, Subrahmanya, Saraswati , Dakshinamurty & a range of sculptures depicting the great Indian heritage are some of the special features of the Math. A Mani Mandapam showing the greatness of Dharma based on Manu Needi Cholan’s story is yet again a beautiful edifice. Rameswaram being a Kshetra visited by pilgrims from all over the country, description of the various murals depicting scenes from Indian epics & Puranas and other shlokas are written in various languages. A new set of photos has been added in the webpage to offer a glimpse of this unique Math. https://www.kamakoti.org/kamakoti/details/Sri%20Kanchi%20Kamakoti%20Peetam%20Rameswaram.html Rameshwaram Yatra - Acharya Swamigal performs Abhishekam & Pujas to Sri Ramanathaswami at the Garbha Gruham (22-Feb-202) Acharya Swamigal visited Sri Ramanathaswami temple in Rameshwaram Kshetra and performed Abhishekam & Pujas to Sri Ramanathaswamy in the Garbha Gruham on 22-Feb-2021. In the morning, the Peshkar of Ramanathaswamy Devasthanam came to Kanchi Math along with Sarvasadhakam Priest to invite Acharya Swamigal and then escorted Acharya Swamigal to the temple. Reception with Poornakumbham was accorded to Acharya Swamigal at the temple entrance by Raja of Ramnad- Thakkar of the temple, Joint Commissioner, Peshkar, Officials and priests. As per traditions and customs, Acharya Swamigal performed Gangabishekam to Ramanathaswamy at the Garbha Gruha (Sanctum Sanctorum) with his divine hands followed by Vastra Samarpanam, Ashtottara Archana and Deeparadhana Shodashopachara Pujas. Special Abharanams - Three petalled Bilva studded with Maragatham stone, Bilva Mala, 108 Kasu Malai and a slender Yagnopaveetam in Gold and Silver were adorned to Ramanathaswamy by His Holiness. Two Silver buckets, Deeparadhana Thattu, Kumbha Harathi, 11 Silver Kalashams were presented by Kanchi Math to Ramanathaswamy Devasthanam during this visit of Acharya Swamigal. At the Parvatavardhini Amman Sannadhi, Acharya Swamigal adorned Abharanam, performed Archana and Deeparadhana. Sri Acharyal visited the Sri Sethumadhava Swami Sannadhi and after pradakshinam, returned to Shrimatam, Agniteertham at 11:45 AM. Earlier in the day, Acharya Swamigal performed Sri Chandramouleeshwara Puja at Shrimatam. Acharya Swamigal also prayed at the Ujjayini Kali Temple right next to the Math and then left for the temple at 9:15 AM. Veda Pandits accompanied Acharya Swamigal with the Ganga Teertha Kalashams amidst accompaniment of Nadaswaram & Veda Parayanam. Several dignitaries including Raja & Rani of Ramnad, Uppuru Sri Narayana Chettiar , Sri OS Manian, Minister of Handlooms & Textiles, Sri S Gurumurty, Sri H Raja, Sri Vedantamji and Rameswaram public participated and witnessed in the event. Veda Pathashala Vidyarthis, Veda Vidwans, Rameswaram Kshetra Vaidiks & Purohits too participated in large numbers.

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Swagat Samaroh Sabha by Kashi Vidwans Invite for Kashi Yatra. Shankar Math, Agni Teertham, Rameswaram (23-Feb-2021) A committee consisting of Citizens & Vidwans from Kashi on behalf of Vedic & Sastric fraternity and citizens of Kashi presented Swagatam (invite) to Acharya Swamigal of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam at Shankar Math, Agniteertham, Rameswaram. The committee invited Acharya Swamigal to visit Kashi and bless the ancient city. In a Sabha held at the Math here, the committee performed Pada Puja to His Holiness and presented Swagata Patrikas on behalf of several other traditional institutions from Kashi. Speaking on the occasion the Vidwans recollected Kashi Yatra performed by His Holiness Pujya Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal & His Holiness Pujya Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal and invited Acharya Swamigal. Other dignitaries also requested Acharya Swamigal to undertake Bharat Yatra. Acharya Swamigal in his Anugraha Bhashanam talked about ancient tradition of Kashi Rameshwar Yatra, Yatra by Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, Kashi’s greatness, Kashi as a Center for Knowledge, importance of performing Yatra. Acharya Swamigal blessed the Vidwans Prof. Jugal Kishore Mishra, HOD Sanskrit, BHU, Sri Gopal Sharma Upadhyaya, Veda Vibhaga Adhyaksha, Lal Bahadur Sanskrit Vidya Peeth, New Delhi, Lakhan Brahmachari, Representative of Veda Pathashalas in Kashi, Dr. Shailendra Dikshit, Sanskrit Scholar, Vaikuntha Gautam, Veda Adhyapak, Chitrakoot Pathashala, Suneet Mishra, Ganga MAHA Sabha, Haridwar. Special letters of invite from Vireshwar Sastry Dravid, Ganeshwar Sastry Dravid, Sanga Veda Vidyalaya Kashi, Kameshwar Upadhyaya, Akhila Bharatiya Vidvat Parishat, Padma Shri Rama Yatna Shukla, President Kashi Vidwat Parishath, Jitendrananda Saraswathi, Akhila Bharatiya Sant Samiti was presented to Acharya Swamigal on the occasion.

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 12 of 25

The committee came all along from Kashi to Rameshwaram on the occasion of Gangabhishekam & Pujas performed by Acharya Swamigal in the Garbha Gruha of Sri Ramanathaswamy & Parvatavardhini Amman as per centuries old traditions & customs.

Maharudra Purnahuti & Unveiling Statue of His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal (25-Feb-2021) Shankar Math, Agni Teertham, Rameswaram A Maharudram was performed for three days by Vaidikas from local Vedic community in commemoration of Acharya Swamigal visit to Rameswaram in connection with Gangabhishekam & Pujas to Parvathavardhini Sameta Ramanathaswamy at the Garbhagruha on 22/2/2021 as per customs & traditions. The Purnahuti was held in the divine present of Acharya Swamigal. This was the second Maharudram performed in this Yatra. After the Purnahuti Acharya Swamigal sprinkled the Maharudram Teertham on the statue of His Holiness Pujya Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal which was unveiled on that day. His Holiness Pujya Shri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal had visited Rameswaram several times, by Pada Yatra, earlier with Sri Kanchi Mahaswami in 1960’s, then alone in 1970’s & 80’s as Pada Yatra and then with Acharya Swamigal. The Kashi Rameswaram Yatra of His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal as Pada Yatra is ever etched in the minds of devotees. His Holiness had performed Gangabhishekam & Pujas to Ramanathaswamy and in one of his Rameswaram Yatras, Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal had performed Maha Shivaratri Pujas for Chandramouleeshwara at Shankar Math and additionally, on the same night His Holiness performed third Kala Puja at the Garbha Gruha to Sri Ramanathaswamy and performed Sahasrakalashabhishekam. His Holiness had performed 2001 Kumbhabhishekam at the temple and also performed Mandalabhishekam to Sri Ramanathaswamy which coincided with Vasantha Navaratri & Rama Navami Utsavamas that year. Acharya Swamigal blessed & initiated the construction of the South & North Gopurams. Acharya Swamigal had presented several Abharanams to Sri Parvathavardhini Sameta Ramanathaswamy each time he visited

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Rameswaram. The Nagabharanam given by Acharya Swamigal in 2016 in connection with Kumbhabhishekam was one among them. The unveiling of statue of Acharya Swamigal Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya Swamigal coincided with Trayodashi & Shravishtha Nakshatram on 25-Feb-2021, the last day of Srimatam camp at Rameswaram. It is important to mention that Swarna & Rajata coins given at Srimatam during Danams & Sambhavana were specially engraved with the image of His Holiness Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal on one side and Kamakshi Amman on the other.

Rameswaram Yatra (25-Feb-2021) Shankar Math, Rameswaram After giving darshan to devotees at the Math, Acharya Swamigal visited Agniteertham which signalled the conclusion of Srimatam camp at Shankar Math, Rameswaram. The Devasthanam officials presented Acharya Swamigal with a picture of Sri Rama performing Pujya to Ramanathaswamy. Thereafter Acharya Swamigal visited Vivekananda Kendra, Ramakrishna Math, Veda Pathashala at Sembai road in the island and commenced journey towards Madurai. Enroute to Madurai Acharya Swamigal was received at Paramakudi, Manamadurai, Tiruppachetti, Tribhuvanam, and outskirts of Madurai city by devotees and members of Grama Koil. Pujari Peravai. Acharya Swamigal visited Kottai Vinayagar temple in Tribhuvanam (25-Feb-2021)

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Acharya Swamigal arrived at Madurai Sankar Math at 9:30 pm (25-Feb-2021). A small procession was held by devotees to welcome Acharya Swmigal. Swagatha Patrika was read on behalf of Madurai devotees. Acharya Swmigal blessed one & all with Anugraha Bhashanam

Acharya Swamigal arrived at Kumbakonam on 3-Mar-2021 and was received by Veda Vidwans & citizens of the town at the Raja Veda Pathashala. Acharya Swamigal was taken to Sankar Math in procession from there. Nadaswaram recital, Veda Parayanam, Elephant & Horses were part of the procession.

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Aradhana of 66th Acharya observed on (06-Mar-2021) The Aradhana of 66th Acharya was observed at Kumbakonam Sankar Math in the presence of Acharya Swamigal today. The significant contributions of the Acharya to Dharma & Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam is remembered on this sacred occasion

* ஸ்ரீமடத்鎿ற்埁ப் பழைய தஞ்சாவூர் ஜில்லாힿல் சசாந்தமான ஸ்தலங்கள் இருக்埁ம் ஆ뾿ரம் க்ராமங்க쿁க்埁ம், சதாண்ழட மண்டலத்鎿쮿ருந்த அனனக இடங்க쿁க்埁ம் ஆழன 므னத잿 அம்பாரி뾿லமர்ந்鏁 믁ப்ப鏁 வண்羿கள் .. 埁鎿ழரகள் , ஒட்டகங்கள் , 200 பரிஜனங்கள் உடன் வர ힿஜய யாத்ழர சசய்தவர்கள் ..

Acharya Swamigal had performed Vijaya Yatra in the erstwhile united Thanjavur Jilla (Trichy-Pudukottai- Kumbakonam) and Thondai Mandalam with a big retinue consisting of 30 Bullock Carts, Horses, Camels, 200 Parijanas and visited sitting on Elephant about 1000 such villages connected with Srimatam.

* ஆ뾿ரம் க்ராமம் ஸ்வா뮿 என்쟁 னபாற்றப்பட்டவர்கள்

He was known as the Swami of 1000 villages

* தாம் இழளனயாராக இருந்தசபா폁னத 1894ம் ஆண்翁 埁ம்பனகாணத்鎿ல் அத்ழவத ஸழபழய ஸ்தாꮿத்தவர்கள் ...

Even when the Acharya was a minor in 1894, He established Advaita Sabha in Kumbakonam

* 1892ம் ஆண்翁 வாஞ்殿யூர் னதவஸ்தானம் மற்쟁ம் எஸ்னடட் சசாத்鏁கழள ஏற்쟁 ஸ்ரீமடத்鏁டன் னசர்த்தவர்கள்

In 1892, The Acharya got the Vanjiyur Devasthanam & its properties under the aegis of Kanchi Math’s Estates

* இவர்கழளப் னபாற்잿ப் பணிந்鏁 鎿ருힿதாங்埂ர், சகாச்殿, தஞ்ழச மன்னர்க쿁ம், 鎿ருசநல்னவ쮿 எட்ழடயꯁரம் மற்쟁믁ள்ள ஸம்ஸ்தானா鎿ப鎿க쿁ம் ஸமர்ப்ꮿத்鎿ருக்埁ம் காணிக்ழககள் ' மற்쟁ம் க羿தங்கள் உள்ளிட்ட ஆவணங்கள் கணக்垿ல..

The are in numerous number of documents, letter correspondences, which show the various Prashasti Patras and Kanukkas given by Kings & Princes states of Travancore, Cochin, Thanjavur, Ettayapuram near Tirunelveli to the Acharya

* பாண்羿ச்னசரி ஃப்சரஞ்ச் அரசாங்கம் இவர்கள鏁 ힿஜயத்鎿ன்னபா鏁 எ翁த்த ꯁழகப்படத்ழத தபால் 'அட்ழடயாக சவளி뾿ட்ட鏁.

Commiserating Acharya’s Vijaya Yatra in Pondicherry, The French government released a postal card with His Photo

* இவர்கள鏁 இளழமப் பருவத்鎿ல், ஸ்ரீகாஞ்殿 காமனகா羿 ꯀடம் கா殿 ஹꟁமந்த கட்டம் 垿ழள மடத்鎿ன் மஹந்த் ஆக இருந்த ஸ்ரீக்ருஷ்ணானந்த 鏀ர்த்த ஸ்வா뮿கள் என்பார் சதன்னகம் வந்鏁 இவர்க쿁க்埁 கார்羿யனாக இருந்鏁 சகாண்翁 ஸ்ரீமடத்鎿ன் பணிகழள ஏற்쟁ப் னபாற்잿வந்鏁ள்ளார் என்ப鏁ம் ஸ்ரீமடத்鏁 ஆவணங்களில்' கண்ட鏁..

(பழைய 믁கꏂற்ப羿)

Old records indicate that Sri Krishnananda Teertha Swami as Mahant at Kashi Hanuman Ghat came down south and acted as the Guardian of the Swami when he was a minor.

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The Acharya was born in Udayambakkam, village donated to one of the Purvacharyas of Kanchi Math by Krishnadeva Raya. The Acharya had identified Sri Swaminathan (Kanchi Mahaswami) as future Acharya of Kanchi Math during his Chaturmasyam in Tindivanam.

Visit to Umayalapuram (6-Mar-2021) Acharya Swamigal visited Umayalpuram village in the evening. Anushthanam at Cauvery river, visits to Vinayaka Temple, Elementary & Secondary School, Shankar Math were some of the events covered during visit of Acharya Swamigal to the village. Retired Sanskrit Prof Dr. Sri Jagadeesan, native of Umayalpuram organised the visit.

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And, some very special photos of Acharya Swamigal

Acharya Swamigal’s 53rd Jayanthi celebrations at Sri Matam (09-Mar-2021) Jayanti Mahotsavam of Acharya Swamigal commenced this morning at Sri Matam, Kanchipuram with Veda Parayanam.

Sudarshana Homam Poornahuthi was performed in presence of Acharya Swamigal at Shankara Matam, Kumbakonam on 8-Mar-2021

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Jayanti of Acharya Swamigal at Kumbakonam- prasadam from temples were given to Acharya Swamigal. Devotees performing harati and receiving blessings in the morning (09-Mar-2021).

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From around the world, as shared by devotees Seattle (KKSF) - Avittam greetings beautiful pujai for Pudhu Periyava on 12th Feb 2021 by Smt. Nithya and Shri. Anand in Seattle satsangam. Sweetly finished for us with sangita and stotra samarpanam by several kids. Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara

Tampa (KKSF) - With the Blessings and Anugrahams of Guru Parampara KKSF Tampa Chapter Celebrated Monthly Anusham for February on the Auspicious Krishna Paksha Dwadashi and Anusham Nakshatra @ Smt Lakshmi & Sri.Visweswaran Residences. Pooja Started early at 4 PM with around 10 families. Guru Pooja started with Vishnu Sahasranama parayanam, Ganapathy. Dhyanam,Punyakavachanam, Rudrabhishekam for Shivan and Periyava,pancha suktam Chanting, Ashtothram for Shivan,Adi Shankara,Periyava, Pudhu periyava and concluded with Maha arathi.

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Portland, Oregon - With HH Periyavas anugraham, Thai maasa Anusham Pooja was held on Feb 6, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. Devotees recited Guru Vandanam, Swasti followed by Archanas for HH MahaPeriyava, HH Jayendra Periyava (performed by kids), Thotakaashtakam. Kids recited SDPA2 Shlokas that they have practiced with lots of enthusiasm, followed by Naivedyam and Harathi and few minutes of Rama Nama Chanting. A few pictures are below.

Doha, Qatar: Avittam celebrations on 12th Feb 2021

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Abudhabi - Anusham February and March 2021 celebrations

Dubai - Anusham and Uthiradam poojai - February and March 2021 celebrations

Cupertino, California -With abundant blessings from Sri Mahaperiyava, Sri Pudhu Periyava and Sri Balaperiyava, a Satsangam by name "Sri Mahaperiyava Satsangam" was started on the Aaradhana day of Sri Mahaperiyava in 2014 (December 20, 2014). As adivised by Sri Pudhu Periyava, the Satsangam happens in the form of discourse/upanyasam on the Saturday following Anusham. Smt. Vidhya Srinivasan has been doing this for the past seven years and has completed about 80 discourses. Several topics have been covered in these discourses, such as Srimad Ramayanam, Srimad Bhagavatam, Divya Charithams of great mahans and saints and Siva Nayanmar charithams. Presently, the life histories of Rama Bhaktas are being covered under "Rama Bhakthi Samrajyam" series. Divya charitams of Bhadrachalam Ramadasar and Samartha Ramdas have been discoursed so far. It was a divine coincidence that Samartha Ramdas charitham occred on the 'Dasa Namavi' day, the day Samartha shed his mortal coil. This can be viewed using the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE6tUk5QZjc&t=21s

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Seattle - Pidi Arisi Thittam - Maha Periyava’s Anugraham has brought together a strong community of devotees in Seattle, USA. We have been growing together by following the path set by Him. We formally started Pidi Arisi Thittam in Seattle in August 2020. We are indeed truly Blessed to be part of this great and auspicious initiative given to us by our beloved Maha Periyava! This initiative was inspired by a couple of members of our community who pointed our way towards feeding those in need. Mrs. Kavya Sarat works with women experiencing homelessness in the Seattle area. Mr. Srinivasa Sadana leads a group of volunteers as part of SEWA USA- Seattle Chapter in preparing meals for homeless shelters in the Seattle area, and for communities in need across Washington State. The Pidi Arisi collection process is as follows: Every participating household brings their accumulated rice (and/or dal) and offers to Maha Periyava during that month’s Anusham poojai celebrations. Jaya Hanuman Temple, Bellevue is our Anusham poojai venue. Some devotees bring the Pidi Arisi directly to the temple and participate in the Anusham poojai, while others request our volunteers to collect it from their homes. We consolidate the Pidi Arisi contributions and offer them to Maha Periyava during the monthly Anusham Poojai. We then pass on the contributions to SEWA USA – Seattle Chapter who consumes them in their cooking programs for the month. We are Blessed that the Pidi Arisi contributions have served hundreds of people in need every month since August 2020, and we seek Maha Periyava’s Blessings to continue our service for a long time to come!

Voice of Youth

Chalfont Pennsylvania - Temple architecture by Pranav Krishnamoorthy

Namaskaram, my name is Pranav Krishnamurthy and in the month of August, I got an opportunity to research and present a topic for the monthly workshop of Center of Oriental Learning and Living (COOL) organized by Sri MahaPeriyava Manimandapam NJ USA. The topic was about architecture and design of ancient Indian temples in which mystery and science are embedded. I took three temples in this discussion: Uttarakosamangai temple in Tamil Nadu, Virupaksha temple in Hampi, and Kailasa temple in Kanchipuram, as they have many surprising features, built, when there was no modern science and technology in place. For example, an inverted image of the Rajagopuram can be found at Virupaksha temple in Hampi which can be correlated to the concept of pinhole effect used in modern day optics. This shows how ancient builders were so knowledgeable in adopting the present-day science, in their architecture & design. I also talked about the use of geopolymer technology (making of artificial rock) a feature that can be found in the 1200-year-old Kailasa temple in Kanchipuram.

Back in March, while browsing YouTube, a video caught my attention. It was about a place in Sri Lanka called Sigiriya (known as Ravana’s palace) in which, seven different stages of defense system was built by ancient

NRI Newsletter from Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. Date 09-Mar-2021 Page 23 of 25 builders to safeguard from enemies. I was much impressed by the technique used here, that motivated me to check out more of such videos that were truly astonishing and raises the eyebrow. As I was already exploring around architecture, it aggravated my interest in this area. So, I decided to talk about the architecture of Indian temples, to align closely to the core objective of the initiative, which is to learn Indian traditions, culture and its great values. It was not about temples in general (which I thought might not be that unique of a topic), but I wanted to really emphasize on the cool features in them, that show how advanced ancient builders were, thousands of years ago. Since I had a chance to visit few of the Indian temples during my India visits, I had some basic knowledge, that helped to explore more and prepare the content for my presentation. I chose the appropriate temples with its architectural features that I thought will seed more interest for my peers, to learn more about the greatness of India and its vast heritage. Since many of us live far from India, we mostly appreciate the complex buildings and designs, located in this country. As a result, we often are unaware of the unique creations in our country of Origin - India. Thus, I considered this as a great opportunity to showcase a glimpse of Indian temples, that were built in par or more than the current day skyscrapers, to truly appreciate the greatness of our Indian ancestors. The pandemic situation (tied at home) coupled with my summer vacation, really helped me to learn, explore, and understand the science behind the beautiful temples across India.

Seattle, Washington - Vibha Mahalakshmi Hariharan I pray to Ommachi Thatha Maha Periyava, the first thing in the morning every single day and recite “Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara” instead of saying Good Morning to everyone at home when they wake me up. This is how my Patti and Thatha took care in teaching me everything about Ommachi with every given opportunity right from the time I was born. My Amma and Appa recite lots of Slogams and played Ommachi songs everyday, the whole day while I was in my Amma’s thoppai. Before coming to Seattle for helping Amma and Appa for my safe delivery, my Thatha and Patti as usual went to Kanchi Sri Matam and got the permission and Blessings from Ommachi Thatha there. My Patti fondly recollects how she and my Thatha were called specifically and given Guava fruit and prasadams right at the Adhishtanam a thatha there saying they’ll have a blessed and happy Bala Tiripura Sundari as their granddaughter! Though my grandparents are in Thiruvanaikovil now, till date, without missing a single night, I listen to my Patti’s Thirupugal and Thatha’s stories about Maha Periyava Ommachi Thatha over phone, every single night before sleeping. Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara!!! Sharjah - Hayagreev Sridhar on “Protect cows” Cows, they give you all dairy products, they give milk, curd, butter, butter milk. But most of the people eat cow meat. You get cow meat from killing them. Do you think killing them is good? Killing cows is like a mother losing her own child. When cows go extinct, your pizzaz and burgers wont have cheese, your tasty ice-cream will not exist anymore without cream. Your birthday cake will be blunt. So avoid cow meat, not just cow meat, don’t have anything which has any type of meat. Already some species of cows are extinct and some are endangered. To protect them, you have to see and look for places they kill animals and tell them about what will happen if you killl cows, they will realize and stop. So, its your choice, do you want yummy dairy produts, or never have strength in your bones (calcium).

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Hara Hara Sankara Jaya Jaya Sankara ------KANCHI KAMAKOTI PEETAM, 1, Salai Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Editorial team (Sri Barath Ramachandran, Sri Gopalakrishnan, Sri Lakshman, Sri Maj. Gen. Murali Gopalakrishnan, Sri Mani TR, Sri Sundar Ram KS and Sri Vasanth Mehta) Email: [email protected] Follow us on https://www.facebook.com/srikamakoti/

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